I can’t smell, but I still have taste!

Lately, it has not been hard for me to wake up in the morning and get out of bed. I know what you’re thinking; she must have an exciting and fun life. This is not the case. It is more of that I own really great coffee beans. I’ve been drinking coffee for years now and don’t ever plan on stopping, no matter what anyone says! Although the process of making my coffee requires a slight commitment of ten minutes (grinding, measuring, boiling, and pouring), it is always worth it and has become a routine. I used to go out and just buy a cup, but that was becoming to be too expensive for me. So ever since December I have been trying out a variety of coffee beans to brew at home. I am kind of a bean snob, having given up on Starbucks, detesting Coffee Bean, and never being exhilarated by the brands found at the grocery stores, I am stuck with either ordering special brands or going to specific places in Los Angeles. I know, quite the hardship….

My partners in coffee crime, my reason to wake up in the morning, the catalyst of that feeling and thought that this day could be the best damn day ever, and if not it’s okay because you still had a great cup of coffee in the morning is the love child of:

1. Intelligentsia - Ever since this Chicago native coffee shop opened in Silver Lake, I have become an avid fan. It is unfortunate that I live so far away from Silver Lake, making it just about as expensive as ordering the beans and getting it mailed to me. However, when I do find time to go visit the East side, I always make an effort to stop by. Right now, I am drinking 2008 Summer Solstice Blend.

It is described as:
Flavor: Stone fruit, milk, chocolate, berry
Acidity: Smooth, balanced
Finish: Citrus, caramel, marshmallow

Every adjective they used to describe this blend makes my heart smile (and drinking it makes my heart jump for joy!). It tastes very smooth and is definitely one of my favorites that I have bought from Intelligentsia. Of course, it is of no surprise that I enjoy something so transient. (I can’t believe the summer is almost over). However, this does not make me sad, but only even more excited as to what kind of beans I will end up with next time

2. Chemex Brewer - Also known as, Chemex Drip Device. It is an hourglass shaped carafe that combined with special filters magically creates “perfect” coffee (clear, pure, no bitter taste). I bought mine a long time ago at a Cost Plus. However, many of the cool coffee shops in Los Angeles sell them (Groundwork, Intelligentsia), but you can also find it online. I buy my filters (I think they are about $6 dollars) at the Brentwood Market on 26th street and San Vicente. Magic!