No morning around my house is complete without caffeine; lots and lots of caffeine.  I’m not a morning person and am sometimes extra grumpy in the morning, causing my kids to ask, “Mom, have you had any caffeine this morning?”  I love to start my day with a yummy “frou-frou” coffee drink but don’t have the time or the energy to make one for myself.  Now I have a solution that satisfies my need for a coffee drink and my kids desire to keep me caffeinated, the new Green Mountain Coffee Espresso Iced Latte, available in two flavors, Mocha and Vanilla.  I tried Mocha, a smooth blend of coffee and chocolate, poured over ice.  It was a decadent way to start the day.  Plus, one bottle has six eight ounce servings for less than the price of one purchased coffee drink.  I can feel like I am treating myself without the guilt.  I enjoy drinking my latte with a plate of these yummy Sour Cream Apple Muffins for breakfast or with this caramel apple cake for a tasty after dinner dessert.

With the holidays approaching I usually need to take a hostess gift to several holiday events or have to find an inexpensive last minute gift.  This year I plan to make a Coffee Gift Basket.  It’s simple to make and will be sure to be appreciated by any coffee lover on your list. Here’s what you need:
One small basket  (you can find these at any thrift store)
One Christmas Mug
Small packages of candy and a few peppermints
Red or Green Tissue paper
One Christmas dish Towel
One bottle of Green Mountain Coffee Espresso– I found my bottle at Wal-mart

Place the tissue paper in the bottom of the basket and add the Christmas dish towel to the side.  Place the packages of candy in the Christmas mug. Arrange the Coffee and mug in the basket and sprinkle peppermint candies inside the basket.  You can cover the basket with cellophane and add a bow if you feel especially festive.