“I don’t drink coffee,” Alex said.
“Then who drinks coffee at your house?” I replied, eying the coffee-themed plaques on her kitchen wall.
Her quick answer, “Oh, Andy does, and I liked organizing the coffee display on my wall.” (This on a visit to friend Alexandra and husband Andy’s house in May 2026.)
Which got me to thinking, “What’s in your cup? Is it coffee, tea, or a nutritional shake for you at breakfast time?”
Then, diving down a rabbit hole, I discovered in my gallery a few tea & coffee photos from days of yore. One, from a trip to Monterey, California in 2013. Tea or coffee, not sure which. It looks dark enough for black coffee.
A few weeks ago, a book cover with vintage teacups on the cover also surfaced.
Viewing the delicate, floral china ware on the cover of Wanda Fischer’s story TEACUPS, I expected to read a tale about heirloom china.
Not so!
Instead, readers learn about Mary Ann’s thwarted childhood dream about a Disney ride postponed for decades, told through the lens of her older “self.” Before the climax of a surprise ending, the author reveals conflicting preferences inherent in multi-generational families on vacation told through realistic dialogue. As the Amazon blurb promises, the author succeeds in attempting to “bring her elderly self into the three-dimensional world that had only been a square Kodak photo,” a memory sixty years in the making.
Find my short review of her book HERE.
A visit to Windsor Rose Tea Room also came up in “Memories.”
Windsor Rose Tearoom, in Mt. Dora, Florida, for many years has offered teas in a British-inspired atmosphere with breakfast and lunch menus .
We enjoyed cozy tea and treats at the Windsor Rose Tearoom in 2019. I later had a book-signing at Barrel of Books in 2020, located right next to the tearoom. Unfortunately, the tearoom closed in 2023. However, Barrel of Books and Games is still open 10:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. most days.
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
My Author Friend Features continues this week in July with . . .
Liesbet Collaert
Amazon Blurb for Plunge
Tropical waters turn tumultuous in this travel memoir, as a free-spirited woman jumps headfirst into a sailing adventure with a new man and his two dogs.
My Review
I’d rather regret the things I did than the things I missed out on,” declares Liesbet Collaert. Readers will soon discover that the author doesn’t miss out on much, embracing the nomadic life on land and sea wholeheartedly. In her memoir Plunge, the author pursues a life less ordinary, just as her subtitle suggests. Read more HERE
I’ve met Liesbet, her husband Mark and dog Maya when they visited Florida a few years ago. I even blogged about the amazing encounter: https://marianbeaman.com/2021/01/20/taking-the-plunge-liesbet-on-the-sea/
Plunge: Buy LINK
Melodie Miller Davis
Author Melodie M. Davis spent her first seventeen years growing up on a farm in Indiana, where her father raised sheep, hogs, chickens, turkeys, and occasional cows.
She is the author of ten books and one perpetual “peace” calendar, mostly writing non-fiction stories, articles, radio programs, and TV documentaries. She was employed for 43 years by Mennonite Media, since graduating from Eastern Mennonite University, and earlier from Blountstown High School in north Florida. She is married to a Virginian, Stuart Davis. They are members of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Harrisonburg, Va. (I met Melodie at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community when I visited Eastern Mennonite University for a class reunion in 2023.)
Blurb: A Place in the Fold
Who would drive away from a beloved spouse the day before Christmas? Monica Sue Herald did, and untold drama followed. Her husband Timothy, is a well-liked pastor but she cringes every time he uses her for a personal story when preaching. His father is also a pastor several hours away, but they don’t always get along like they should. And what is the secret that Monica’s mother holds in her heart for nearly 30 years, and why?
The novel is placed in the 1990s, before the days of almost everyone having cell phones, which might have changed the outcome of this tale. This book will induce tears of sadness and also joy for many, and also help couples with their precious and loving relationships.
A Place in the Fold: Buy LINK
Darlene Foster
“Dreamer of dream, teller of tales—that is one description of author Darlene Foster. A girl from Medicine Hat, Alberta, Darlene now lives in Spain where she continues to delivers the middle-grade Amanda series. She love to travel with her husband Paul and together they explore countries around the world, which serve as settings of Amanda’s adventures. I recently read and reviewed Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog.
Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog
Pre-teens will absolutely love Darlene Foster’s Amanda in Ireland, and so will their parents and grandparents, especially if they’ve visited the Emerald Isle as I have. From the bright green cover to the intrigue within, readers stay engaged with the adventures of Amanda Ross, who has been invited to serve as bridesmaid to her cousin Roison’s wedding. From the moment Amanda lands in Dublin, she is entranced by the towering castles, ancient graveyards, and stunning green countryside. Yet, in keeping with the kid-detective genre, soon villains emerge, villains who kidnap, threaten, and even gag the innocent. Amanda wonders as she ponders questions: Who is to blame? Who can she trust? Will she become another body in the bog? Read more HERE.
Amanda in Ireland: Buy LINK
And so I ask,
What’s in your cup? Is it coffee, tea, or a nutritional shake for you at breakfast time? Something else?
Have you read any of the books showcased above?
Good morning, Marian! Coffee, always coffee! I like good coffee and drink it black (except for a cappuccino sometimes if we go out). In the winter, I sometimes have tea in the afternoon. I enjoyed your tea video with Cliff whispering to you in the background. 😊
It’s so lovely you’ve featured these books and their authors!
I understand your preferences — and I suppose you still savor your coffee in your kitchen.
Yes, long-married like us, send prompts to each other. I’m guessing your husband does the same.
And, yes, I’m happy to go beyond my own front yard and promote other deserving writers. Again, thanks for being an early riser, and commenter. 😀
You’re welcome, Marian! 😊 Hope you enjoy the rest of the week!
Marian, how lovely that you featured these authors. I haven’t read their books, but they sound like good books to read this summer.
I would have asked the same question, had I seen those coffee signs on the wall!
As for what’s in my cup, coffee! In the evenings, I like a cup of tea. However, with the weather so hot, I haven’t had any tea. 😊
L. Marie, I guess if Illinois is hot, it’s hot all over the U.S.
And, I would have guessed coffee for you. Tea is refreshing but only if it’s iced these days. 😀
You are taking us on a journey, Marian, into a world of new discoveries, as you introduce us to some fascinating reading material! Much to my reluctance I have had to cull my huge library to a few favorites as I am moving into smaller living quarters. Am also going through years of correspondence, etc. This is hard for me!
Elfrieda, I do feel the sorrow of parting with books. I too culled my library, but for people like us, books feel like friends.
The correspondence is even harder because it is intensely personal. Hugs to you in this difficult time. ((( )))
As for me it’s tea first thing then 1/2 cup tea (same bag) with multi collagen, turmeric, ginger and white pepper added for memory or is it longevity and then comes out the big gun – black coffee!
Dear sister, thanks for giving detail (with humor) to some of the habits I know from our ZOOM calls. Son Joel planted a turmeric plant but deer or bunnies must have gotten it. Oy vey! 😀
What a wonderful surprise to find my latest Amanda book featured on your blog, Marian. Thank you so much for the wonderful review!! Amanda enjoys a cup of tea, and has a one at a teashop called The Dish Ran Away With the Spoon in Amanda in England, and has a café con leche descafeinado in Amanda in Spain. As for me, I start my day with a cup of green tea. I tend to prefer teas, but will ocassionally have a decaf coffee or an iced coffee in the hot summer. I especially like Rooibos teas. Betty’s Tea Shop in York, England is one of my favourite places to enjoy a cup of tea. 🫖
You’re welcome!
Is there no end to your imagination? we missed Betty’s Tea Shop when we visited York, England–a good excuse to return. 😀
You would love Betty’s! I meant to mention that I love Cliff’s drawing. It’s perfect.
I’ll let him know that you like the cartoon: Quick sketches come natural to him. Thanks for the follow up here, Darlene. 😀
Marian — What a fun post! You and your cup have certainly gotten around. I’m an early, extraordinarily early, riser, so it’s two cups of black coffee down the hatch for me. Then one more after I return from my first walk of the day with Henry.
You are a living testimony to the motto that “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a [wo]man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” The dog friend who has made the biggest impression on me in your books is Hemingway, the towering Irish Wolfhound. But now there’s Henry.
Thanks for checking in, Laurie!
I don’t care for coffee or tea – I’m a milk or hot chocolate girl in the mornings. I’m a big fan of the Amanda series – thanks for featuring Darlene!
It’s so nice to see you here, Teri. I have seen you supporting Darlene in other ways and commenting on her blog. You are welcome here any time. 😀
Your post reminded me of our recent visit to Edinburgh, Scotland, where we found Clarinda’s Tea Room, a sunlight-filled collection of fancy plates and tea service sets, fresh-baked scones, clotted cream, and jam. So of course we both had a pot of tea. But on a normal morning Stuart drinks coffee and I drink either de-caf coffee or tea.
Cutting down on caffeine may or may not be good for my health, but I can’t say I miss it as long as I have a fragrant hot drink. The upside is that if I want a jolt of energy, all I need to do is drink a big mug of high-test coffee. When you restrict yourself, you get the reward of greater impact on the few occasions when you allow it. Maybe a metaphor?? 🙂
You know I would enjoy Clarinda’s Tea Room–the ambience along with the drink and treats.
Your last sentence is full of high voltage, Shirley: “When you restrict yourself, you get the reward of greater impact on the few occasions when you allow it.” Yes, that makes sense.
As always, thank you, Shirley! 😀
It’s coffee in my cup, although today it’s iced coffee. Great reviews. You’re very nice to support the authors you enjoy.
Dan, I have seen you on several sites lately. Thanks for checking in here.
Yes, I like the camaraderie of authors online and happy to give them a boost when I can. 😀
I’m reduced to herbal tea for breakfast, although since making the switch, I do feel better. Go figure!
Go with whatever makes you feel better, Liz. 😀
I’ve gotten addicted to the robust aroma of coffee, though I’d been a tea drinker for years. I blame hubby for bringing the brew home.
My husband is an inveterate coffee drinker from his time in the Navy.
I think coffee is a completely “safe” drink–unless you have high blood pressure.
Your husband is such a huge supporter of your writing, just like mine. We are so very blessed!
Indeed we are!!
I’m a TEA drinker, through and through. Never got the taste for coffee, although often I’m envious of the sigh (and high?) coffee drinkers make as soon as they’ve had their first sip. My first cuppa is Blackberry Sage black tea, then a cup of green tea, then once the morning really begins (8 ish) I enjoy an Earl Gray Tea Latte with all milk and foam, no water (and don’t forget cinnamon sprinkled on top). Iced tea (decaffeinated) in the afternoon. Glad you asked. Ha.
Great highlights of some wonderful authors. I’ve read Liesbet’s book (absolutely loved it) and Darlene’s terrific books. Most of my reading is on the kindle now because of eye issues, but I start early in the a.m. with a hardback. A neighbor who is soon moving to a senior community invited me over to pick out any of the hardback books (50+!!) that he’s giving up because of lack of space. I’d read almost all of the books but took home eight. But where to put them? Where to find the time? And when to write again??? Hope you’re writing, my friend.
P.S. I have my grandmother’s adorable China teacup/saucer collection. They are beautiful, and I could make a lovely cover with them, but who uses them anymore?
I noticed how specific you are in your tea drinking. I’m sure it gets you off on the right foot.
Yes, I do Kindle books but prefer a hard back out of habit, I guess.
As you may know, I had to get rid of a bunch of books when we moved. I don’t miss them because I get mine mostly from the library. I do have two of your picture books. They are so beautiful I keep them by the table of my meditation space.
My special teacups are in a glass cabinet, but I don’t use them because they have so much gold ornamentation. (Probably not a good excuse.)
Yes, I am writing–now organizing an haiku collection. Thanks for asking, Pam! 😀
Ah yes, the haiku collection. Yay for you. Most of my hardbacks are on the hope chest at the end of our bed. When I hear a big thump, I know a few have fallen. 🙂 I’m THRILLED that you have two of my picture books “on display.” A few years ago, I called a doctor I’d liked who had left for a different (but closed for new patients) practice. I e-mailed her and asked if she could please please take me and my guy on as patients. She said, “Oh, Pam, I was just looking at your Birds of Paradise book you gave me that I keep on an end table. Of course, I’ll add you and Jerry.” These small magical moments mean so much!!
Talk about the power of books, that comment from your doctor packs a big punch. Books have a long history and staying POWER, for sure.
Thanks for sharing; you’ve encouraged me with your story. 😀
Marian, I’m so glad I didn’t miss your post, and lo and behold, there was a paragraph about me and my newest book. You are so sweet to share it, I will check for browsers!
Anyway, it is nice to have friends in high places, right? Blessings to you and Cliff–I’m guessing you may not be quite as warm as we are today: 99 degrees. Tomorrow more. Oh well, it’s summer booming!
I’m happy to showcase your work here, Melodie. You have a long, long history of publishing, editing, and book authoring, probably more than most commenters here. So, enjoy your moment. 😀
Virginia is hot; the Northeast is hot too right now. However, your base line is probably usually lower than Florida’s. I believe you’ve lived here briefly and know it is torrid (with a few breaks) from now until mid-October in our state. 😀
My husband and I drink coffee every morning…two cups each! 🙂
Welcome to my blog, Linda! I appreciate your comment and notice that we both are morning coffee drinkers.
I just checked out your blog, Pinterest site and read some journal entries and verse. Your photos are absolutely gorgeous. Do visit again. 😀
I was a religious coffee drinker for many years. It was the way I always started my day. It was not uncommon for me to have a second cup mid-morning and a third cup mid-afternoon. I had been having some stomach/digestive issues for quite a while and read an article about foods/drinks that can contribute to that. I switched to herbal tea (2 cups per day) about nine months ago, which immeidately helped with my gut problems. The first 7-10 days were hard, but I only miss it occasionally.
Pete, it sounds as though your self-diagnosis worked. Great!
Coffee is generally acidic, and your stomach reacted to that. I’m glad you found herbal tea soothing. Maybe someone will read this and get an “Ah-ha” moment.
I don’t think Chic-Fil-A shops are available in California. Cliff discovered that owners of that franchise get their coffee beans directly from a farmer in Colombia, and somehow the coffee feels less acidic . . . at least to him. It doesn’t have the effect of Starbucks, that’s for sure 😀
A lovely post, Marian, and I enjoyed Cliff’s cartoon at the end. I drink tea but I’ve given up coffee as it now makes me feel nauseas. Nice to see your author friends featured here.
You are the first to mention Cliff’s cartoon. I’ll pass that compliment on to him.
About coffee–no sense in drinking a beverage that makes you feel nauseous.
And, yes, I’m happy to promote authors who appear here often. I have a feeling you will be among the next, Robbie. 😀
Hi Marian!
Thanks for the shout-out about Plunge. I appreciate it.
Is that a drawing of Cliff by Cliff at the end? It’s so cool that you are both creatives and artists. I don’t have any time to read or write these months, unfortunately, but I love both activities.
Mark and I never used to drink coffee or tea. Just plain water – not even iced – and the occasional fresh orange juice for me. No sodas, unless they come with rum. 🙂
But this all changed when we sailed in the Gambier islands of French Polynesia, where we strayed far away from the equator and were cold. That’s where we picked up the habit of drinking tea (which I did grow up with from my parents).
Since then – this is already 13 years ago, gasp – I enjoy a cup of tea with breakfast. But only if I have time to finish it (we often have to get out the door and driving for some reason or another) and if I have enough fresh water in the tank to splurge on tea. 🙂
Liesbet, I’m happy to promote your fine book. And, I know it’s a little harder to garner sales after a book has been out a while. Sigh!
Yes, that’s Cliff’s cartoon. He is a hard-core coffee drinker. Tea is good too, great if you can manage it with your schedule. I look forward to hearing about your busy days lately–when you have time, of course. 😀
Hi Marian. A fun post today. Coffee is what’ you’ll find in my cup – unless it’s after 4pm – then tea, and always water in between. I like your little author feature corner. And yes, I’ve read a few of Darlene’s books and Liesbet’s, and enjoyed them all. 🥰
Debby, I would have guessed coffee for you–like me, needing a little jolt–ha!
I’m glad yu enjoy the author feature corner. YOU’RE AMONG THE NEXT! 😀