When I was a child and would sleep over at my grandparents' house, my grandma would make me a cup of "coffee-milk" to sip while she drank her coffee. It was warmed milk with the tiniest splash of coffee in it... just enough to change the color slightly. But it made me feel special and grown-up, and it was the perfect start to our day.
Every year, coffee lovers unite to celebrate the elixir that powers their mornings and fuels their days. September 29 is National Coffee Day! From the first whiff of the rich aroma that jolts us awake to the shared conversations that accompany many a cup, coffee is a staple in many cultures. In fact, as a world commodity, coffee is second only to oil.
We have five fun ways to help you celebrate National Coffee Day today — or any day you want to raise your cup to your morning joe.
1. Start with a giggle.
I'm not trying to stir the pot. I think you'll like this joke a latte!
Q. What did the coffee lovers say to their morning brew?
A. You mocha me very happy!
2. Make homemade creamer.
Homemade creamer is delicious in coffee or cocoa (or coffee-milk)! Invite your kids to help you prepare it, and you can all enjoy a sweet, warm drink after.
Once you learn to make your own, you may never buy creamer at the store again. Combine a cup of cream or milk of your choice with a can of sweetened condensed milk, then add flavorings of your choice, such as vanilla or another extract, chocolate syrup, or cinnamon.
If you are a fan of fall flavors, my bestie's recipe for Pumpkin Spiced Creamer can't be beat!
3. DIY personalized mugs.
Every member of your family will love drinking from their own personalized mug. All you need are white ceramic mugs (available at most craft stores) and permanent markers, such as Sharpies.
Use the markers to decorate the outside of the mugs any way you want. When you are done, set the mugs aside and let them dry for at least 24 hours. Then, put them on a baking sheet and place them inside a cold oven. Set the oven to 400˚F and set a timer for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, turn the oven off, but leave the mugs in the oven to cool.
Once they are completely cool, wash them and enjoy using them!
4. Get crafty with K-cups.
If you've got a Keurig or other single-serve coffee maker, you probably end up with a lot of cups. Don't let them go to waste. Spend an afternoon crafting with your kids!
We have step-by-step instructions to make a cute flower or a silly dinosaur. You can also find scores of other ideas with a quick search on Pinterest, from penguins to snowmen to trolls!
5. Visit your favorite coffee shop.
Head to your favorite local coffee shop or explore a new one and treat yourself to a special cup. Many coffee shops even have deals and specials on National Coffee Day!
Here are just a few of our favorites in Douglas County:
- Black Rock Coffee Bar, multiple locations
- COFF33, Castle Rock
- Crowfoot Valley Coffee and Crowbar, Castle Rock
- Deja Brew, Parker
- Enchanted Grounds, Highlands Ranch
- Festive Cup, Highlands Ranch
- Fika Coffeehouse, Parker
- Monk & Mongoose, Lone Tree
- Ziggi's Coffee, Castle Pines
