the coffee saga: my story

Here is a story about my morning coffee routine and how it's evolved in the 4+ years I've lived in Chicago. It's riveting, really. Perhaps some of you can relate.

Chapter One: the $1 coffee bar

When I started working in February of 2009, it was at a large advertising agency in Chicago. The best perk was the $1 coffee bar. Hands down. The $1 coffee bar was undoubtedly my first stop every morning. I would happily hand over my $1 and ask for whatever my heart desired (skinny vanilla latte - check. chai tea - check. regular old cup of joe - you bet ya!). I had no need for a coffee pot because the $1 coffee bar met all of my coffee needs (except for the weekends when I'd walk 1/2 block to the nearest Starbucks) Easy.

Chapter Two: sometimes you want coffee at home

Finally came the time (2 years later) when we had guests at our home who requested a cup of coffee. Not an unreasonable request by any means, yet I had nothing to offer them "Umm there's a Starbucks down the block....".  Not going to cut it. So we were gifted a standard, run of the mill coffee pot. It did its job, but came with its problems. I'm one gal, who doesn't need an entire pot of coffee. I'm also a gal who frequently forgets to turn off their coffee pot, clean out the filter, and keep the house stocked with coffee grinds, milk and sugar. Too much for 7am.. way too much.

Chapter Three: blogging brings me the nescafe dolce gusto

A little over a year ago during a blogging a event, I was lucky enough to receive a revolutionary coffee machine. I truly loved it. It made lattes! It made really delicious smooth coffee! It was easy to clean, small and compact.. and I only had to make one cup at a time! Happy dance. My coffee problems are solved. Not. You can't buy the coffee at a store. Nope, not any store. If only I was the type of person who would proactively order my months supply of coffee before I was out. If only. I tried. I really did. But it always ended the same way. With me having no coffee for two weeks. And it made me sad.

Chapter Four: spending fortunes on starbucks

This chapter is recent. Over the last several months, Starbucks and I have formed a special relationship. It's mutually beneficial, really. I give them $30 a week, and they feed me addicting lattes. We've really gotten to know each other well. The baristas know my name, have my order memorized, compliment my accessories (namely my glasses and my scarfs) and tell me to "stay warm out there!". I love it. But my bank account is pissed. $5 a day! $30 a week! $120 a month! You're insane! (Says Chase). I had to listen. There was no denying that this is a habit I cannot afford.

Chapter Five: a new friend

Yesterday I bought a Keurig. He has a prime spot on my counter. He's black and shinny. And his initial products were delicious. I think we'll get along well. I will enjoy coffee in my pajamas. I will enjoy my k-cups that conveniently, can be purchased at Target. I will keep my $5 (or spend it on something else). I will continue cultivating my addiction to caffeine - because life is short, and coffee makes me happy.

THE END.