Coffee talk

I opened a fresh bag of Sumatra Starbucks coffee this morning and smelling its contents is like a religious experience for me. In my life, coffee is not just a drink. Its smells and tastes bring back a lifetime of memories.

The smell of coffee reminds me of our semiannual trips from Abilene to Birmingham to visit Grandma. We would rise at 3 a.m. for the seemingly unending 15 hour trip. I always loved smelling Mom and Dad's coffee while watching the sun come up eagerly anticipating seeing Grandma.

It reminds me of the security of my parent's marriage. They poured their heart and soul into their three children, but before breakfast was their time. They have always risen early and love to spend time together catching up and discussing the days events before devoting the rest of their time to us.

It reminds me of college when coffee houses became the "in thing". Or as one friend pointed out, when coffee went from 50 cents to 3 dollars! This is when I discovered what was the equivalent of a frappuccino. A momentous day in my life.

It reminds me of the emotional morning of my sister's wedding. We were both jittery and on the verge of tears. I took her to Starbuck's in her veil for one last coffee before her marriage.

It reminds me of Christmas morning. We had to wait in our rooms while Mom and Dad worked at what seemed like a snail's pace making coffee and starting a fire before we were allowed to see our spoils.

It reminds me of sanity breaks for Bryon and me. It always seems easier to talk when we are forced to be strapped in together side by side! The 1/2 hour trip to and from Starbucks is a perfect check in.

All this talk about coffee is making me thirsty. Sumatra is calling my name....