“When did you have the best cup of coffee of your life?”, Theo asks. This question stopped me in my reading tracks! Coffee’s become a common part of my day. Yet I appreciate every sip of this beautiful roasted bean brewed to become my morning ally. When I moved to a new city I explored the local coffee shops. I was on the hunt, not only for the best tasting coffee but an atmosphere which lent itself to reading, writing, and study. I discovered the best place is my very own home. And for that I am most grateful.

My earliest memories of coffee was the “coffeemilk” my great-grandmother made for me. It was a treat! However, over time the coffeemilk disappeared and I didn’t drink coffee for years. Then I took a job teaching. The school was so cold my nose ran and my throat hurt. So, I grabbed a cup-at first just to hold the hot mug between my hands. Eventually I began taking sips. It soothed my throat. I took another sip and then another. It was here coffee became a sought after companion.
I cannot pinpoint the best cup of coffee I’ve ever tasted, yet coffee moments cover my memories like a cozy sweater blanket.

*The time I flew into Colorado on a super early flight and my husband made coffee and brought it to me in a thermos. It was still hot!
*The time he surprised me with a cappuccino from our resident’s coffee room. My smile was as big as the sun.
*Handmade “fancy” lattes made by my daughter in law! No two are the same and they are spectacularly delicious!
*Coffee mornings with my mom when I visit. Drinking coffee with her are moments I will treasure!
*Visits to the local coffee shop with Mom and Dad before they moved upstate. Dad like the Marilyn Monroe
*The time my son made me coffee when I picked he and my daughter in law up from the Air B&B on their last visit
*Coffee on the balcony as it rains upon the lake, or the geese fly in, or ducks swim peacefully below
*Coffee made on the camp stove in the mountains, drinking it slowly as the tent warms up while the heater kills the chill in the air
*Afternoon coffee with work friends
*Coffee with sisters-morning or afternoon, around the table or on the patio

My favorite cup of coffee doesn’t exist. Coffee isn’t merely a beverage. It is moments remembered.