I can't remember when I became a coffee drinker, but I don't really have any adult morning memories that don't start with a cup (or two) of coffee (except when I was pregnant of course). So when I was asked by Folgers to write a post about coffee and the importance of morning rituals, I knew I'd have plenty to say. Like the jingle goes, "the best part of waking up ..." I've always been a morning person, and sitting in the calm and quiet with a cup of coffee really is my favorite way to start the day.
In college, I would get up before all of my roommates and put the pot on. With a warm mug in my hands, I'd enjoy a calm moment listening to the ocean. (Yep, I went to a pretty rad school, nothing like ocean-front digs at 20 to spoil a gal.) Next, my roommate (and best friend) would rise. She'd put on one of our favorite cd's, I'd pour more coffee, and we'd chat. I have such fond memories of those mornings, and every once in a while we get to catch up with each other this very same way; it's the best.
My mornings have changed since college, but not as much as I imagined they would. I'm no longer the first one in the house to rise, my hardworking husband gets up before the sun. And even though he is a tea drinker, he makes my coffee for me every morning. It makes me feel so loved. I recently learned that my great grandfather made my great grandmother her espresso every morning, and I felt as though I suddenly knew these people I had never met so much more deeply; it is such an intimate, loving gesture.
I am often up before the little one, and after kissing my husband goodbye, I settle into the couch with my coffee and ipad. The mornings have become my time to read blogs and connect with my lovely online friends. I cherish these quiet moments because they help me start my day feeling calm and refreshed. When Jude finally awakens and joins me on the couch, we snuggle, sing songs, and recount dreams before it's time for that second cup of coffee. Then we put something upbeat on the radio, as the morning magic fades and the day begins.
Speaking of upbeat tunes, did you know that Folgers hosts an annual jingle contest? It's designed to help indie musicians gain exposure. It's pretty cool, but fair warning, you might end up with the world's catchiest jingle stuck in your head.
Vote for the best Top 10 Finalist in Folgers' Jingle Contest! Meet the Top 10! Take a look at Folgers® Jingle Contest Finalists, and listen to the tracks that earned them a spot in The Top 10. Cast your vote once every day through June 19th. You could win exciting prizes, like free Folgers Coffee, iTunes® gift cards, signed CDs from Gavin DeGraw, and even a $10,000 Grand Prize just for voting! Before you vote, follow the Road to the Jingle on Facebook to see how they traveled the U.S. to track down the Top 10 contestants! Remember, you can vote once a day through June 19th! Click here for official rules.
