A Cup of Joy

The sweet aroma overwhelms my senses as I mosey into my favorite coffee shop.  It's a chilly morning; water drips from the dark sky like a leaky faucet.  Warmth fills the air as the heavy door floats closed behind me.  The bitter, yet inviting, smell fills the atmosphere, and slowly, my senses begin perking up from their Monday morning slumber.

 

My eyes adjust to the dim light as I step into the line of the like-minded.  I glance around.  A man in a well-tailored suit glances over the business section, his steaming mug perched on a nearby table; a thoughtful woman pours over a large textbook with a perplexed look cast over her face, her Tazo tea bag soaking in hot water.  A trio of chattering young women in yoga pants and Nikes stand before me, plotting their next route after their break.

The baristas are busily fulfilling every request - pouring, adding, stirring and shaking to perfection.  The espresso machine that feeds my addiction hisses and steams, ready to take on the challenge that is the next cup.

As I make my way to the front of the line, my taste buds yearn for the creamy, distinctive, 180 degree lava that will undeniably make my morning worth it.  My order rolls off my tongue, naturally, as it has done so many times before.

My name is called and finally - FINALLY - I bring the steaming cardboard cup to my lips, anticipating that first, impeccable sip.  The smooth espresso blended with a perfect combination of milk and vanilla lingers on my lips as I head out to face the day.

 

 

 

 

Today's Starfish

A cup of Joe, fuel, coffee.  It means many things to different people.  Its the gasoline that starts the engine; its the feeling that starts the day.  Its the peace and the warmth and the taste.  Coffee can change our mood and energy level, but kindness and encouragement along the way creates the will and energy to make a difference.

Devon and I are both coffee lovers - in fact, I am almost certain my addiction began when I was living in Colorado with her and her family... and a Starbucks was within walking distance to their home.

We both went to Starbucks this morning before work ,and not only ordered ourselves a coffee, but ordered an extra one to take to work and surprise an unknowing co-worker.  There is nothing like starting a Monday morning with a nice cup of surprise java!