I Love Coffee

I just thought I should put it in writing today. I don't know why today is the day I need to profess my love of the pit of the coffee cherry, but I just needed to say it.

I love coffee.

My addiction has changed over time, but it still has power. I don't drink a dozen or more shots of espresso every day like I used to, but I long for a fix, even if it's a decaf one. Yes, I said decaf, and it's not blasphemy.

Once upon a time, my doctor instructed me that I couldn't have caffeine anymore (at about the time I was slamming shot after shot of the stuff). In fact, my doctor had me account what my daily diet looked like. When I finished he asked, "Do you know that coffee isn't a food group?" Perhaps I didn't realize that. So, years after that medical intervention, I now have to limit or cut out caffeine altogether. That doesn't mean I can't have coffee. I am a decaf connoisseur. And, when I do drink the "real deal" it works like a charm. Back in the day I could drink piles of caffeine before bed (maybe a triple shot and a can of Coke) and go right to sleep. The quality of sleep is certainly in question, but my eyes were shut and there was something sleep-like about it. Now, even one shot of espresso after Noon, and it's no sleep till Brooklyn. Yikes. I like that it possesses it's proper power these days. And I really like that decaf makes me feel warm and fuzzy on the inside. Hooray.

I love the smell of coffee, the culture of coffee, the way it makes me feel, the way it makes other people feel. The liquid is magical. It tastes good by itself, with or without sugar, great as ice cream. I could go on and on, but I suspect you already know. As a former barista and coffee specialist at *$, I know the intimate relationship people have with their coffee. Whether it's extra hot, with non-fat or extra pumps of vanilla, whatever the case may be, people like to fill the boxes on the side of their cup. That's what makes it uniquely and possessively theirs. I'll take it just about any way, as long as it's made well. And with good beans. And roasted well.

Finally, a Coffee Haiku:

My dear coffee friend
How lovely you make me feel
Thanks Starbucks Siren

Cheers!