Well, everyone has a vice or two, especially if you have a creative mind. Mine is coffee. I love coffee. Maybe it was my Portuguese parents or growing up in South Africa that made me start enjoying coffee from an early age. I still remember using instant coffee (Yes, I know, but it was what we had back then), grinding it with some sugar and a little water to create a light creamy golden paste, before adding hot water. Never boiling water otherwise it would taste burnt! And it tasted great.
Above: Nothing like a strong espresso!
Here are 5 reasons why coffee is a loved and essential ingredient for my everyday life:
The smell
For me there is nothing better than the smell of freshly brewed coffee. I find that rich, intense smell so comforting and satisfying. It just gets my mind into gear - ready for the day ahead.
The taste
I love the unique deep rich flavour of a good coffee. A good coffee for me should not need any added sugar. It should be strong, naturally rich yet mellow, creamy (demonstrated by its thick foamy head) and never bitter. It’s easy to see why I love coffee.
That moment
There is more to coffee than just the taste and aroma, there is something about having that that cup in your hand and taking a sip that is so satisfying. I don't know about you, but I never want the cup to end, it gives you that brief bubble of “time out” to relax, reflect and energise.
The energy
Maybe it’s the caffeine (well, it’s most likely the caffeine) that gives me that bit of energy or kick in the morning when I have my strong flat white, or after lunch when I have my espresso. No matter when, coffee is my pick me up, it gives me that inspiring boast to keep going.
It’s social
Coffee is a great go-to drink for meeting people and having conversations. It somehow connects people (usually people who like coffee) - everyone is up for a work coffee break, taking some friends for a coffee or ending a great family meal with an espresso.
And there are many health benefits too: it can help you lose weight, it can act as an antidepressant, and it helps circulation and the heart. But as mentioned in a recent article by the NHS about caffeine don't over-do it - then again, all good designers know balance is key!
Now it's time to get on with my design jobs for the day. But first ... I need fresh cup of coffee. See how easy that was?