Perkdup

I usually try to review a few different holiday blends during the Season. This year, I didn't quite get it together in time. Alas, I thought I would like to share a few of the items on my personal Holiday Wish List. 1. A new coffee grinder 2. A new coffee station set up 3. A new frother I'll keep you posted.

I can't remember if I bought this blend last year. It all seems like a blur, but when I walked into my local store last week, I picked up a bag of these lovelies. Dark roasted - and not one I like to drink every day, but really good when mixed with a handful of blonde roasted beans. A limited offering, of course, so hurry before they're gone. Starbucks Thanksgiving Blend

I was pleasantly surprised to find Starbucks Guatemala Casi Cielo at my local Starbucks . I used to be able to set my watch by the fact that when it got close to Valentine's Day, Casi Cielo would hit the shelves. For the last several years, it just seems to randomly appear.  I never know when to expect it but I'm always happy to see it. Say hello to my old friend. Happy National Coffee Day!

I had dinner at a very nice restaurant a few weeks ago.  Not only was the food good, the coffee was excellent.  There's nothing worse than a restaurant with superior food and awful coffee. I was so impressed that I asked the blend.  Pardon my ignorance, but I had never heard of "Project X Coffee"until then. I ordered a pound online.  Should have ordered more.  Delicious, dark roast.  Just what this Sunday morning needed. Always happy to spread the news about a good blend. Raising my mug to Project X and Metropolis Coffee .

I typically do not drink blond roast coffee from Starbucks . I happened to notice the packaging at the counter when I was picking up a bag of Pike Place and the Green Apron Blend caught my eye. After a quick discussion with the barista on duty, I was inclined to learn more.  Story here . It's good to explore and try new things.  Especially coffee. If you're willing to give it a "shot," I think you'll be pleased.

I am always super buzzed when I discover a new independent coffee roaster. Recently, I was gifted a bag of Zocalo Coffee in the Flourish blend.  I am embarrassed to say that I didn't even know this gem of a roaster existed in San Leandro. The Flourish is a lighter roast than I normally drink.  Very pleasant.  I can't wait to try the other blends. Zocalo is woman owned and operated. Grab your mug!  You don't want to sleep on this one (pun intended). Wonderful way to begin my week.

 I just had my first Peet's mobile coffee shop experience and I'm not sure how I feel. When they said they were remodeling the Peet's near my office, I wasn't sure what they had in mind.  It looked perfectly fine to me.   Today, I walked up and was met by a robot.  Okay.  That's not true.  But there was a lobby full of computer screens.  Looked like the bank.  I could hear a familiar voice in back.   But where were the baristas?  Well, they're all hidden.  Like in a vault.  It wasn't super difficult to navigate the system, but I did have a problem when scanning my app.   So, I did what I always do - "AGENT!" I walked up to the one familiar face who was putting out the orders and said, "Help!" And, she did. I don't know how much I needed help or how much I missed the personal exchange. I'm so confused.  I want my baristas!!

It's the little things that help us get through the day. Like my new Cafe Appliance Speciality Drip Coffee Maker . If you can't afford a kitchen upgrade, maybe opt for a new coffee maker instead. The moment I took it from the box, I fell in love with the design.   And then, I was intimidated by the technology.  So, I turned to, where else, YouTube. And if you're at all hesitant or unsure, the customer service (this is a GE Appliance) is great. Each morning, I wake up feeling like Joan Jetson. (not a paid endorsement - just a really satisfied customer)