Coffeemaker Crazy

As much as I hate to part with my tiffany blue coffee maker, I think the time has finally come.  It turns off mid-brew, and the "on" button is completely missing so turning it on requires a bit of skill. So, after four years of loyal coffee brewing, I began the search for a new coffee maker. Turns out it's not as easy as I had imagined. I have already brought two home and returned them and am up to my ears reading reviews. I want something that will flow with the white and bamboo in our kitchen, but I also want it to have a slightly retro feel. 

Here are some of the current contenders:

Kitchenaid vs. Cuisinart

These are (obviously) very similar styles, and both of them have mixed reviews. Half the purchasers love their choice, and the other half hate it.

Hamilton Beach vs. Cuisinart

The HB reviews state that it is difficult to pour cold water in the the reservoir, which really is quite small. A few Cuisinart reviewers said that their units stopped working after only six months.

Krupps vs. DeLonghi

Same mixed reviews with Krupps... water drips on the outside, coffee drips when pours. I do really like the look of it, though. The Delonghi has no reviews. (Is that good or bad?!)

What are your opinions? I want something that will look great sitting on the counter, but I also want it to work well for the next several years. What coffee makers do you use?

xoxo

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happiness is...

sharing stories over a good cup of coffee. 

somehow happiness is happier, sorrow is less sorrowful,  laughter lasts longer, hurts are eased or forgotten, and souls are mended. i am a firm believer that conversation and coffee are powerful tools.

{for my coffee buddy. miss you.}

xoxo

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cup vs. mug

the other day my bestie and i had a conversation

about coffee cups vs. coffee mugs.

as much as i love many of my vintage tea cups,
i drink my daily coffee out of over sized mugs,

even if i don't fill it up all the way.

i just like the feeling of a big, warm cup in my tiny hands.

a mug filled with hot chocolate mix and peppermint

or spiced tea and gingerbread

is a simple, personal gift for anyone on your list

that won't send you into financial distress.

an easy place to find unique mugs is anthro

or search online for really unique mugs

husband would love this trigger mug from a+r

this hand painted tree mug from etsy is perfect for an outdoorsy guy or gal

a monogram mug from this seller is an easy gift for anyone on your list

vintage tea cups definitely have their place in my life,

but as for daily use, i am a mug type of gal.

what about you?

are you a cup or a mug person?

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back again

this week i have been enjoying one of my favorite holiday indulgences:

it reminds me of early winter mornings at my parents' house,

sitting on oversized couches on the sun porch,

drinking coffee and talking with my mom.

i know it is a little soon to think about,

but i am really looking forward to the holidays.

speaking of other things that are "back again"

.......

i promise i will be back very very soon.

{lately i have been swept up in a whirlwind

of sulfonamide antibiotics, adrenergic blocking drugs,

pulmonary disorders, and chronic kidney disease.

second year rx school is like finals week, every week.}

xoxo

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Just Around the Corner

With morning temperatures in the high 40s/low 50s, I can finally tell that Fall is just around the corner, bringing October along with it. To me October is the epitome of fall... pumpkins, changing leaves, crisp mornings (perfect for a good run!), and the beginning of a million yummy treats and dishes. (I could go on and on, but I will spare you my "Ode to Fall".) 

Among my edible fall favorites are Blue Moon Brewing Co.'s Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale, Archer Farms Cinnamon Vanilla Nut coffee,  and homemade Apple Raisin Muffins!! Yum!!

Just for the record, all Blue Moon's Seasonal blends are really good. I simply love the pumpkin the most!

image courtesy of Blue Moon Brewing Co.

This is especially yummy with a bit of vanilla creamer! 

And yes, that is my blue toaster in the background.  Stay tuned for some apartment pictures very soon!

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The use of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg makes these a great fall treat!

Paula Deen's Apple Raisin Muffins: image and recipe courtesy of Food Network

Also, check out this recipe for Brown Rice and Edamame from Martha Stewart. I will definitely be trying this one soon...

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