summer's end + the perfect iced coffee

It's the unofficial last day of summer and I'm swinging between sadness and invigoration. The crisp, cooler days of fall in Pennsylvania are undoubtedly some of the finest, but this season always brings out the melancholy in me. I wish I was one of those people who believe "September is the other January" and feel motivated and inspired to reset. To me, there's a kind of beautiful sadness in the shortening days, weaker sunshine, and chilly edge to early mornings. Whereas spring is a season of anticipation, fall holds a sense of loss. 

This is also my last day of freedom before starting my new job. The last three weeks without a schedule have been a lovely reprieve. The old to-do list got a few things checked off but I always seem to run out of time or energy to completely accomplish my goals. I'm happy to say I got rid of a lot of extra stuff and made room for a few new furniture items. Having too many possessions bogs me down and I like the feel of "less is more."

Like ice cream, iced coffee has become a summertime staple for me. I'm not a huge coffee lover, but I do appreciate a well-blended iced coffee. I was never able to make one that was completely satisfactory until I discovered a recipe for white chocolate mocha syrup that nailed it. Yes, it's ultra-sweet and rich, but a generous splash in strong-brewed coffee is perfect. Go to Southern Mom Loves for the recipe. To make the brew, I do about 8 tablespoons coffee and 4 cups water, then put a generous amount of ice cubes in the coffee pot. When the coffee is done, it should be cool. Extra brew can be stored in the fridge for several days. For a pint sized jar of iced coffee, I'd fill the jar 2/3 full of ice, about 2 tablespoons syrup (I like it plenty sweet!), add coffee until jar is 3/4 full, then add milk. Stir and taste - add more coffee, milk, or syrup to your liking. I'd love to hear how you make iced coffee! 

I know, it's actually pumpkin spice/hot drink season, but I'm still holding on to every bit of summer I can! Maybe I'll figure out how to make the perfect latte next (with my very limited coffee-making abilities!)