If you were to get coffee with me, what would you like to know?

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A couple of days ago --after the encouragement from one of my classmates-- I reached out to my Instagram followers asking, "If you were to get coffee with me, what would you like to know?"

As much as I try to share balance between my work and life, you see only a glimpse of who I am outside of the classroom. So, here are my responses to a few questions I received! Let's share an (imaginary, yet still delicious) coffee.

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About this new series: "Coffee Talks"

​Through these refreshing posts (hopefully paired with your favorite caffeinated beverage), I share anecdotes, fun facts, and reflections from my life away from the classroom. So, imagine we are sharing a conversation over coffee (I’ll have an iced chai with oat milk) – you choose the place. What would you like to know?

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Where do I spend my free time?

I try to spend as much free time outside as possible! Right now, you’ll usually find me down at the Lake Walk on a run or at a local coffee shop. I love being so close to Lake Superior while also being enclosed by trees; I enjoy waving “hi” to all the other runners and bikers on the path. It’s a special treat when a train passes me and blows its whistle!

My other go-to outdoor hang-out spots include Chester Park, Glensheen mansion (UMD students get free admission!), Gooseberry State Park, or Enger Tower. However, I am always on the lookout for new hiking/running trails and hammock locations!

I feel like I am constantly connecting with someone, and many days feature a phone call or meet up with a close friend or family member.

What brings me joy?

• ​A sunny, 65 degree day down by the lake
• Conversations over coffee or a hike
• Running while watching the sunset (and listening to some bangers by ROSALÍA)
• Seeking out new things, places, and local artists; I am always looking to expand my music collection (I’m really into indie music, storytelling, and genre-bending albums)
• Walking through a local bookstore or art gallery
• Handmade knick knacks and goods, especially from friends (I just bought this random strawberry candle jar from Savers, and it instantly made my day)
• Pastries and any kind of artisan bread from a local bakery
• Speaking Spanish at work (¡Vamos a charlar!)
• Spending time with my sweet little cousin (and her incredible dads)
• Random check in texts/calls from my mom

 

What is my Preferred coffee drink and favorite place to have it?

Hmmm, it depends on my mood and the purpose of the coffee stop, honestly. But here’s my typical go-tos:

Duluth:
1. 190 coffee

• My order: latte with honey and oat milk or chai with oat milk (I need to try the lavender flavor soon!)
• Purpose: deep work session, writing spurt, and quick chat

2. Amity coffee

• My order: mocha or iced chai (You guessed it, with oat milk. I like my drinks creamy, what can I say?)
• Purpose: This is my favorite place to take friends for a long chat. I adore the atmosphere filled with local paintings, hanging plants, and friendly staff
• Fun fact: they have really cute for-here mugs and mouth watering baked goods! (Their French toast muffin, Greyere croissant, and shortbread cookies are a must)

Twin Cities

1. UP Coffee

• ​Iced horchata with oat milk and a shot of espresso

2. Café Astoria

• Campfire mocha, rainbow latte, or any other kind of “secret menu” drink (I always try to sit in the Stella Belle section with the tropical mural)

3. Abogados Coffee

• This is my go-to next stop. I’m so excited to try it!

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If I could have coffee with anyone, who would it be and why?

ROSALÍA
She would just be a delight to talk to! Besides from being a brilliant musician, she seems so sweet, silly, and down-to-earth. I’d love to talk with her about how she chooses to blend different genres of music and her style of writing!

Liz Kleinrock (@teachandtransform) and Blair Imani
It would be just a pleasure to meet these incredible educators in person, let alone talk with them about their work and side passions!

Sam from theyaresam
I feel they know all the best spots to go for small-business coffee, and I’d love to chat with them about so much: writing, fashion, hiking trails, etc.!

My cohort
I don’t see them enough, and a reunion in a few years would be so special!

My host mom in Salamanca
Any more time with her would be precious; I miss her wit, stories, and dating show commentary.

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Comment prompt:

What is your go-to coffee order and/or what is your favorite coffee shop?

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Thanks for joining in the chaos!