The Best Start
Alone, just me, the gentle lapping of the lake, and the haunting call of a loon in the distance—it's a ritual that redefines the meaning of - well, almost everything.
Sitting here, coffee cup cradled between my hands, I feel the rest of the world slip away. These are the mornings when I do my best thinking, where the clutter of my scattered thoughts fade into insignificance. Here, nature isn't just surrounding me; it seeps into me, teaching me to breathe, to pause, to appreciate a slower pace.
This particular dock has been my thinking spot since my parents first brought me here as a kid. Back then, it was about skipping stones and catching frogs, but now, it's this morning coffee ritual that defines my Muskoka experience. It’s where I've strategized my business, mended my family issues, and solved many of my life's problems.
It’s funny how a simple cup of coffee can become this profound. It’s not just about the caffeine kick; it’s the warmth, the aroma, the way it seems to enhance natural world around me. Each sip feels like a reaffirmation that life doesn't need to be so complicated.
"Muskoka mornings should be for everyone," I've joked with friends who’ve visited, all questioning why I wake so early. But those who get it, really get it. They understand why that first sip, taken as the world awakens, makes you feel like you’re part of something larger than yourself.
And as the caffeine nudges my brain into gear, I’m reminded why these mornings are sacred. This dock, this lake, this cup of coffee — it’s more than a routine; it’s a feeling.
As the caffeine works its subtle magic, enriching those quiet Muskoka mornings, here are a few inventive twists to elevate your morning coffee ritual:
Some ways to spice up your morning coffee
Cinnamon's Sweet Embrace
Whether it's a dash of ground cinnamon stirred directly into your brew or a cinnamon stick left to infuse in hot water, this spice offers a sweet, comforting note that pairs beautifully with the tranquil lake views. It's more than taste; it balances your senses and blood sugar, prepping you for the day.
Exotic Touch of Cardamom
For those mornings when the lake mirrors the sky with pristine clarity, a pod of cardamom transports your senses. This spice, essential in Turkish coffee, introduces a floral yet subtly spicy flavour that complements the crisp air. Crush a pod or two into your coffee pot for an aromatic experience that enhances the serene ambiance.
Chilli Chocolate
A Bold Awakening If adventure is your morning call, stir in a generous spoonful of chilli hot chocolate. This isn't just about waking up; it's about igniting your senses. For an even richer indulgence, let a piece of dark chilli chocolate melt into your cup, turning your ordinary coffee into a decadence.
Celebratory Spiced Rum
Reserved for those special, celebratory mornings, a splash of spiced rum transforms your coffee into a rich, complex delight. This is not for your everyday routine but for moments that call for a toast to the beauty of Muskoka, enhancing the warmth of your cup with a hint of celebration.
Homemade Chai
Forget the overly sweet commercial chai. Simmer a concoction of green cardamom pods, star anise, cinnamon, and fresh ginger. Tailor the spices to suit your taste and fill your morning with aromas as invigorating as the lake's breeze. This homemade chai doesn't just taste divine—it infuses your surroundings with scents that echo the natural Muskoka landscape.
Creamy Coconut Oil
Lastly, a spoonful of coconut oil might not be a spice, but it brings a unique, nutty flavour.
Deborah
It is so much a feeling as you say! Enjoy every morning ! Thank you for spreading happiness & joy