The Perfect Cup of Coffee

For as long as I can remember, my father has always been a devout consumer of coffee. The smell was captivating, and in a sense, comforting; a reminder of my paternal guardian.

My first, convincing, taste came in college. I can't recall if it was an act of desperation for academic survival during those late nights or a curiosity as to what this drink was that lured in the rest of campus. 

I tried it. I liked it. I'm hooked. 

Then I married my husband, the connoisseur of tastes. He is always searching for ways to "broaden my tastebud horizon," as he puts it. Since then, I've tried a variety of coffee concoctions:

espressos

lattes

cappuccinos

black coffee (more or less a weight loss technique)

cuban coffee

coffee with "coffee milk"; the European, superior, equivalent to cream

flavored coffee 

Americanos

clover coffee

drip coffee

percolated coffee

French press

instant coffee 

iced coffee

None of this brings me the same level of enjoyment as my simple drip coffee with a touch of cream brought to me by the Keith kitchen. 

What is your perfect cup of coffee? 

Also, how was your Christmas? I hope it was filled with joy, family, and friends.

Some fun new things I was gifted: 

Some new trinkets for my charm bracelet here, here and here.

New dining room chairs very similar to these.

A new read: The Paris Wife

Anthropologie gift card during my birthday month: yes, please!

Beautiful sweater

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Christmas Magic

Do you remember Christmas as a child? These are some of my most cherished memories.

The decorating began when my father took my sister, brother and me to a Christmas tree farm in upstate New York. By that time in December snow usually covered the ground, so we adorned paralyzing snow suits and waddled our way up a hill to hunt down the most geometric Christmas tree. My siblings and I would stand by while our Papa sawed down our prize. Sleds were our vehicle of choice as we descended the hill and Mom would greet us with hot chocolate and fresh clothes upon our return home.

As Christmas drew nearer, the anticipation seemed impossible to contain. I remember peeking through the stair railings with my brother to watch my parents place the presents under the tree. It was around that time we discovered Santa's fictional roots.

Often times Chad and I discuss how different Christmas becomes with every year we "grow up". Sometimes I miss the magical memories. Sometimes. Most times I am excited for the years to come. This Christmas with Chad and Koda. Christmases to come with small feet pattering about. I look forward to watching the magic in others' eyes.

Life Lately

I love savoring this Christmas season with my love. As I type this, childhood carols play in the background while the lighted Christmas tree keeps me company.

Today, Chad and I accomplished some much needed gift shopping. We were even able to score several pretty sizable sales. Of course I couldn't pass on 40% off a pair of mustard Seychelles. 

Meanwhile, here is what I've been up to over the past couple of weeks.

Our good friends, Aaron and Renee, welcomed sweet baby Judson Bauer Strauch into this world. I fell in love at first sight. He is nothing short of precious.

Thanksgiving day was spent among Keith family. That is always a special treat. This year was even more special when I stumbled upon this photo of my father in law. I love his smile!

Emily and Cameron Keith with their baby pug, Satchmo.

Our two boys left early, so CSD advisory lunch at Brickhouse was just us girls. I was okay with that. :)

Koda is already in Christmas spirit.

I conquered the last bit of a fever at Christmas in Davidson. Highlight of the night: petting zoo, complete with this baby goat. I'm a fan.

I spent last night accompanying my sweet friend, Erika, at the NoDa All Arts Market. Erika makes homemade organic soaps, lip balm, hand lotion, and sugar scrubs. You can find her on Etsy: Gwynne Gardens.

Lastly, my Saturday morning began my most favorite way: FaceTime with my nephew Jack. 

Until next time,

Kim