to keurig, or not to keurig? that is the question.

We bought a Keurig. It's not here yet, but it should be here by 7pm on November 8, 2010. I am still at odds with myself over this machine. Is it cheating to have such a simple way to make coffee? I have a hard time not equating this contraption with a coffee vending machine. Granted, I have taste tested a few times, and the coffee is quite good. Also, the one we are getting includes the basket, so I can use my own freshly ground coffee if I so choose.

My husband is especially excited for this new phase in our life. He came home with Caribou k-cups (in anticipation for it's arrival). We love Caribou Coffee, though I must admit I am anxious for our local roasters to come out with k-cups.. Tony's, Dillanos, Raven's Brew, all you other great coffee roasters.. do you hear me?.. Papa, can you hear me?

must.. have.. coffee..

I let this blog go for quite a while, yet it still keeps haunting me. I love coffee, and I love to talk about it. Can I make a living at it? Probably not, but I *can* keep talking about it. So here I go.

I love that I live in the coffee-drinking capital of the nation, and have access to so many different coffee shops and roasters. At most, we are only a block away from a fresh brewed cup of coffee, or latte, at any given time. Great for us addicts.. "coffee connoisseur" just sounds so much better.

I don't claim to know everything about coffee. Not even close, but I am an eager student. I prefer to have my coffee black. Love it to be dark, strong.. robust, but not bitter. My latest favorite find is Tony's Coffees & Teas "Cafe Carmelita." It is so rich and smooth.. full, but mellow. Perfect cup for getting through a cold winter day. I'd probably even drink it on a hot summer day.

So what direction is this blog going? I have no idea, other than the subject will be coffee. Let's all raise our mugs together!

where've you been? anything new?

My heart is heavy. I have not been posting as I should be for the last month or so.. With the new school year upon us and the wedding season almost over (at least in my circle of friends/relatives), I will have more time for research (my code word for "indulgence") and reviews.

I've missed hearing from you all, so if there is a coffee (or coffee subject) that has not been spoken of that you feel is especially note-worthy, let me know!

So on a more exciting note, to kick off the new fall season, I'd like to start a "Coffee Mug of the Month" photo contest. What's the reward? I'll post the pic of your favorite mug here on my blog. You wanted something more? Attach your "mug" to an email telling me what brew you're pouring into your favorite coffee mug and why you like it (both the coffee and the mug) - I'll let the rest of the viewers know!

send it!