Perkdup

I have really gone back and forth about whether or not I should mention something here. But, I feel like we've become close enough over the years, that I shouldn't be holding back. I've been seeing a Nespresso . I didn't set out to cheat on my favorite whole bean and microroasted coffees.  It kind of just happened.  Blame it on the pandemic. My affair has been going on for over a year.  That was when my daughter gave up her apartment in the city and moved in here.   It was easy enough at first to pretend that the Nespresso didn't exist.   I never touched it.  Didn't know how to use it and had no interest in learning.  Of course, I'd had Nespresso before, but I'm a true coffee lover, which means that I don't do Nespresso.  That's like drinking diet coke.  You either go big or go home. Those frothy creations started to catch my eye and one afternoon, not wanting to take the time to make a pot or pour-over, I caved in. Don't worry....

  One great thing about the pandemic is that I get to try different coffees throughout my WFH day. Although, since my nephew brought me back this bag of 100% Maui Mokka from Pacific Coast Coffee Research in Hawaii, I've been drinking the same thing 5 days this week. This coffee is so smooth and perfect that I ordered another bag online this past weekend. It's the perfect staycation coffee.  Feels like I went to Hawaii without leaving my house. Produced by MauiGrown Estate, Maui Mokka is one of our favorite coffees to enjoy as a cold brew. In such a tiny seed, this coffee packs a fruity chocolate punch with tons of flavor. We carry it as often as possible, purchasing often enough to offer it year-round! Although many coffees produced at MauiGrown are mechanically harvested, this one is not. The size and shape of the tree and fruit make it that hand-harvesting is the only way to go and it definitely pays off in the cup. Variety : Mokka Processing : Natural/Fruit Dried Medium-da...

Have you ever been up around Buffalo Gap, Texas? Me either.  But I know someone who has.  And that super special, incredibly thoughtful person introduced me to Perini Ranch Steakhouse's Cowboy Coffee. Who would expect a steakhouse to have great coffee?  This blend has quickly made it to my top ten list.  You know, that ever growing, evolving top ten (did I say top ten?  I mean top twenty) list of all-time favorite coffees. These Texas cowboys really know their coffee. Best part - it's available online, HERE !

One of my Texas people turned me on to this coffee a couple of years ago.   What a great find. Small farms.  Hand crafted.  Roasted and shipped fresh. This is my first time trying the "Beefcake" Roast.  But, it won't be my last.  It's a medium dark roast with notes of cherry.  South American blend.  Texas tough. I'd order just for the smell when I open the bag.  The taste is the bonus. Ascension Coffee .  Available online.

  I love it when I find a new coffee at an old place. Often the newest thing is right under your nose.  Or, in this case, right under my mug. I thought I'd tried every Starbucks blend until I stumbled upon Siren.   I like it.  I love it.  I plan to buy more of it. (Rhyming is my New Year thing)  Chocolate + Citrus = Great Coffee The bright flavors of this medium roast are inspired—and created—by trailblazing women of the coffee industry. The juicy, citrusy and chocolaty blend combines coffee from East Africa and Latin America. Named for the Siren that symbolizes Starbucks, this blend honors the innovations of women, from farmer to roaster to barista. ( Starbucks.com )

Of course, they roast the coffee over oakwood in Texas.  It's Texas and it's coffee. And, Santa did not disappoint me this year. Dropped me off a bag of limited edition "Good Tidings to All" from Summer Moon Coffee . Christmas can be year 'round, if you choose your coffee wisely.

  I've been spending so much time worrying about the pandemic and its impact, that I haven't taken nearly enough time to sit and reflect on all the things that I have to be appreciate. Of course, I'm grateful for my health and praying for continued good health for myself, my family and my friends.  But, how much time have I spent actually sitting in silence and shutting out the noise and just thanking God for my blessings. I don't mean to be preachy, but I really have to ask myself, "What are you doing to make things better?" When I went to Philz to pick up my mobile order, the app asked me before I placed my order, if I'd like to try the new "Gratitude" blend. How appropriate.  Gratitude . Try Gratitude .  It's a great new coffee from Philz and an even better concept to life. ( Limited holiday offering )