Ah coffee! The aroma of the coffee being roasted in the open markets and sold as it's going out of style. Hand roasting not only took place in the coffee houses, but also at homes in the long handled cast iron roasting pan with an attached flattened spoon long enough to reach the roasting beans to stir and constantly release this addictive aroma. You have not had coffee unless you have had it roasted for you by hand, ground then boiled to perfection for that ultimate cup of coffee. From the brewing pot, the urn used for serving it to the crafty and various looking cups used. So whether you are at the market, home or attending whatever occasion, engagement, wedding, graduation, the birth of a child, a holiday, or fast visiting for a "Sahra," a gathering to socialize. All of these occasions, visits, or events are accented with indulgence in coffee drinking, or sweet minted tea, fresh fruit and snacks. The ultimate hospitality of a Middle Eastern home is having coffee "on" and serving it all the time. Have you heard of Coffee Arabica, or the Origin of the Bean? Of course it is the Middle East where coffee was originally discovered. In these parts of the world, coffee and it's multiple ways of roasting, brewing, and serving it, coffee is drank in the liters from early in the morning to the late hours of the night, which goes without saying as farmers are early risers and are customarily to bed by midnight. Remember that early afternoon siesta helps a lot.
Now, coffee is the preferred drink of all generations across the new homeland. My mom and dad always had coffee brewing and their constant and warm hospitality, which they showed everyone, was and continues to be, the most gratifying gesture to me. Much of this was the hallmark and gracious gestures of my grandparents before them. To this day, I carry on the same kind of hospitality both at home and at my restaurant. Often my friends, and even my own kids (today's generation), ask if that was necessary or needed, not because the kids, unlike my parents and siblings, are unaware of this. It's because a lesser importance or value is placed on such things. One could argue that it's generational or the difference in the value systems or customary traditions of the time we live in. It is heartwarming, however, as our own kids are more exposed to this, in the long run they will become more appreciative of this unconditional return to this wonderful, interesting and most gratifying gesture of peace, love and friendship.
Arabic coffee is ground very fine compared to its counterpart American version. It is very much similar to the espresso grounds. Unlike espresso, it is traditionally sweetened with sugar or honey and spiced with whole or ground cardamom.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp coffee
- 1 cup water
Method
- Bring water to boil (with sugar if desired)
- Add coffee, notice coffee with begin to foam and creamy bubbles start to form
- Turn heat down and perk for a short minute
- Pour coffee into cups and spoon some of the foam topping each cup
Arabic coffee can be ground with cardamom or without. In fact, specialty stores stock both types of ground Arabic coffee vacuum sealed for freshness and taste.
Shaw H. Rabadi, restaurant owner/chef/author, invites you to Eat, Drink, and Be Mediterranean with him for a happier, healthier life!
Visit http://www.TheMediterraneanDigest.com for information on his newly released story-cookbook, "Savor the Spices of Life" and more info on eating, cooking, and living a heart healthier life.
Eat Better, Fresher, Smarter!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shaw_Rabadi
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6548651
Coffee Culture in North America
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in North America and has quite a long history. The hot drink was first introduced to this country in 1668, and shortly after New York became the site of one of the first coffee houses in the United States. The well known Wall Street was actually the site of many early coffee houses where the New York Stock Exchange and The Bank of New York both started. Coffee has evolved into more than just a beverage, it has shaped an entire cultural environment.
The world has become inundated with corporate chains like Starbucks that have dominated their tiny coffee bar predecessors. Each day coffee drinker's flock for a cup of their favorite flavor, not just to drink, but to socialize among people as well. At a coffee shop, people can spend hours drinking, reading, or enjoying the company of others. It is an excellent place for lonely people to gather in a comfortable setting and interact with others. Other times, coffee bars offer customers a relaxing atmosphere where it is quiet and a person can be alone with their own thoughts. A person can sit and watch people without having to say a word.
Coffee culture in the United States has come to describe a range of coffee shops like tiny espresso stands to large chain stores. Many contemporary coffee bars offer Wi-Fi services to their customers for convenience as well as wide ranges of beverages like cappuccinos and lattes. It draws in the yuppie business crowd. On the other hand, there are diner-like restaurants that specialize in coffee and cater to the senior crowd that prefer just regular drip coffee. Many older people gather around counters with bar stools, drink coffee, read the newspaper, and discuss different events.
The United States is a very large buyer of coffee beans. The coffee market is extremely popular and continues to grow which extends to the livelihoods of coffee bars. Even with the invention of single serve coffee makers that make it extremely convenient to make great coffee at home, people continue to frequent coffee shops. In the morning, people buy coffee on the way to work. In the afternoon, people that are on lunch breaks buy coffee as a mid day pick-me-up. College campuses are filled with students who lounge around drinking coffee while studying or waiting for a class.
Places like Starbucks have driven society into a culture where coffee means more than just a drink. In many ways, it represents a way of life that people want to strive for. Being able to interact socially in a comfortable environment or escaping life's fury in the quietness of a drink, coffee has become an obsession that is ever growing with no market saturation in sight.
The social aspect of Coffee Culture is a huge reason why people go to coffee shops. If you're in a hurry its not always convenient. Are you looking for a faster, often better tasting start to your day? You may be surprised at how easy the answer is! -> Single Serve Coffee Makers <-
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Hegel
The world has become inundated with corporate chains like Starbucks that have dominated their tiny coffee bar predecessors. Each day coffee drinker's flock for a cup of their favorite flavor, not just to drink, but to socialize among people as well. At a coffee shop, people can spend hours drinking, reading, or enjoying the company of others. It is an excellent place for lonely people to gather in a comfortable setting and interact with others. Other times, coffee bars offer customers a relaxing atmosphere where it is quiet and a person can be alone with their own thoughts. A person can sit and watch people without having to say a word.
Coffee culture in the United States has come to describe a range of coffee shops like tiny espresso stands to large chain stores. Many contemporary coffee bars offer Wi-Fi services to their customers for convenience as well as wide ranges of beverages like cappuccinos and lattes. It draws in the yuppie business crowd. On the other hand, there are diner-like restaurants that specialize in coffee and cater to the senior crowd that prefer just regular drip coffee. Many older people gather around counters with bar stools, drink coffee, read the newspaper, and discuss different events.
The United States is a very large buyer of coffee beans. The coffee market is extremely popular and continues to grow which extends to the livelihoods of coffee bars. Even with the invention of single serve coffee makers that make it extremely convenient to make great coffee at home, people continue to frequent coffee shops. In the morning, people buy coffee on the way to work. In the afternoon, people that are on lunch breaks buy coffee as a mid day pick-me-up. College campuses are filled with students who lounge around drinking coffee while studying or waiting for a class.
Places like Starbucks have driven society into a culture where coffee means more than just a drink. In many ways, it represents a way of life that people want to strive for. Being able to interact socially in a comfortable environment or escaping life's fury in the quietness of a drink, coffee has become an obsession that is ever growing with no market saturation in sight.
The social aspect of Coffee Culture is a huge reason why people go to coffee shops. If you're in a hurry its not always convenient. Are you looking for a faster, often better tasting start to your day? You may be surprised at how easy the answer is! -> Single Serve Coffee Makers <-
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Hegel
The Fine Art Of Turkish Coffee Preparation
Even though modern day Turkey has been exposed to the likes of espressos and cappuccinos, the ever present faithful of Turkish coffee still plays a significant role in social culture within Turkey. In fact, Turkish coffee is actually drunk the world over, with Turkish emigrants taking the fine art of coffee preparation across the globe.
In fact, even in today's modern world, the age old tradition of the elders where coffee is used to help select a bride is still practiced. This common practice allows for a young woman to serve her prospective in-laws so that they can inspect her beauty and grace. The manner in which the coffee is prepared and served is scrutinized to the last detail, and so a good showing in this specific ritual can ensure a prospective bride access to the man she wants.
Nowadays, coffee has become more of a social drink, and it is common for the men to spend hours in coffee houses, and they usually become very animated in discussions over politics and religion or any topic that is making headlines, wherever in the world the coffee drinkers may be. The Turkish coffe is usually served after a meal with a piece of "lokum" or what is known as Turkish delight. However, it cannot be denied that a poorly prepared cup of coffee will infuriate the often temperamental Turkish coffee drinkers.
For a successful preparation of the coffee, various special apparatus are used. A defined heating source is required, along with a brewing pot, sugar and teaspoon. These are the main items that are required for the purpose.
After successfully brewing the coffee, it is served in a specially designed cup. These cups may contain a handle, or some actually do not have handles. The cup is very small in size, as the coffee is very strong. The heating is controlled to ensure that the brew does not boil too fast. In delaying the boiling, all nutrients contained in the ground particles are released. Modern heating sources are widely used in brewing. These however do not produce a good quality brew. The best quality is obtained by brewing the traditional way. In this way, the boiling pot is not exposed directly to heat but rather it is placed on sand, whose container is that which is exposed to heat. This style of heating allows for even and gentle boiling, which is necessary for obtaining quality brew.
The art of grinding the coffee can be undertaken using any ordinary grinding apparatus although such may not produce a very fine powder necessary for the brewing of quality coffee, and in that case a specially designed turkish coffee grinder is recommended. Specially designed coffee grinders are available in the market that one can use to grind fine coffee. Furthermore, ground coffee easily loses flavor with inappropriate storage, so the preparation from start to finish is vital in ensuring a successful cup of Turkish coffee.
Dave is a fanatical coffee drinker and has recently been exposed to the wonderful world of Turkish Coffee.
He has even created his own site dedicated to the wonderful turkish coffee pot
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Kershaw
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6105754
In fact, even in today's modern world, the age old tradition of the elders where coffee is used to help select a bride is still practiced. This common practice allows for a young woman to serve her prospective in-laws so that they can inspect her beauty and grace. The manner in which the coffee is prepared and served is scrutinized to the last detail, and so a good showing in this specific ritual can ensure a prospective bride access to the man she wants.
Nowadays, coffee has become more of a social drink, and it is common for the men to spend hours in coffee houses, and they usually become very animated in discussions over politics and religion or any topic that is making headlines, wherever in the world the coffee drinkers may be. The Turkish coffe is usually served after a meal with a piece of "lokum" or what is known as Turkish delight. However, it cannot be denied that a poorly prepared cup of coffee will infuriate the often temperamental Turkish coffee drinkers.
For a successful preparation of the coffee, various special apparatus are used. A defined heating source is required, along with a brewing pot, sugar and teaspoon. These are the main items that are required for the purpose.
After successfully brewing the coffee, it is served in a specially designed cup. These cups may contain a handle, or some actually do not have handles. The cup is very small in size, as the coffee is very strong. The heating is controlled to ensure that the brew does not boil too fast. In delaying the boiling, all nutrients contained in the ground particles are released. Modern heating sources are widely used in brewing. These however do not produce a good quality brew. The best quality is obtained by brewing the traditional way. In this way, the boiling pot is not exposed directly to heat but rather it is placed on sand, whose container is that which is exposed to heat. This style of heating allows for even and gentle boiling, which is necessary for obtaining quality brew.
The art of grinding the coffee can be undertaken using any ordinary grinding apparatus although such may not produce a very fine powder necessary for the brewing of quality coffee, and in that case a specially designed turkish coffee grinder is recommended. Specially designed coffee grinders are available in the market that one can use to grind fine coffee. Furthermore, ground coffee easily loses flavor with inappropriate storage, so the preparation from start to finish is vital in ensuring a successful cup of Turkish coffee.
Dave is a fanatical coffee drinker and has recently been exposed to the wonderful world of Turkish Coffee.
He has even created his own site dedicated to the wonderful turkish coffee pot
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Kershaw
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6105754
Choosing Awesome Futon Bunkbeds For Your House
Futon bunks are very valuable items of home furniture due to the fact they serve as a couch or even bed combo. Futon bunkbeds are growing in reputation due to the fact it permits a bed on top and a settee and bed combination below. In the event you do not wish to put money into a futon bunk bed, it's quite possible to build your own out of a couple of existing futons. Stick to the directions to successfully build a futon bunkbed.
As an example, you could turn it into a section for recreation and relaxation to enliven your household and buddies. If you are considering advertising their residence then remodeling your cellar will increase the value of your home. The most important advantage of getting your attic a facelift is the fact it is going to pull in prospective buyers and multiply the living space of your abode. When you want to carry out a attic conversion then you'll have to have a reputable and reliable company and a contemporary design. This may allow you to have a comprehensive basement condo that may be utilised as a comfy home for an individual or even a smaller family.
Incorporating indoor saunas can be a excellent concept in this regard. You will discover a lot of health benefits if you make use of a jacuzzi for relaxation every 7 days or even even daily basis. You might moreover install some workout equipment together with mirrors attached to the walls and provide the cellar with the appearance of a genuine physical fitness and health club. Converting your attic in to a video games room is yet another great option. In such circumstances you will find several styles readily available. The floor itself can produce a particular theme and feel. You'll find a number of individuals that transform their basements into a billiards parlour or darts room.
Listed below are a couple of things to keep in mind whilst obtaining a futon bunkbed. The top mattress needs to be no more than 9 inches thick. Be sure that the top bunk beds which are accessible utilising the matching ladder are surrounded by long lasting guardrails for security. Several futon bunk beds can quickly change into a couple of separate beds. Remember to select a futon bed mattress, which can fold, for the bunk below. The lower futon bed frame of a futon bunk bed folds down speedily to morph into a comfy full size bed. By no means affix or even hang any item that's not developed for use with twinover futon bunkbeds. The steel frames are powder-coated in a choice of decorative colours. Futon bunk beds may demand some assemblage utilizing typical house tools.
If constructing your own home furniture is not your idea of fun, you can purchase a cheap bunkbeds at sources on-line for bunkbeds. Pay a visit to our web site to check out the distinct designs and materials bunk beds are available in.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Z_Stacher
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5872781
As an example, you could turn it into a section for recreation and relaxation to enliven your household and buddies. If you are considering advertising their residence then remodeling your cellar will increase the value of your home. The most important advantage of getting your attic a facelift is the fact it is going to pull in prospective buyers and multiply the living space of your abode. When you want to carry out a attic conversion then you'll have to have a reputable and reliable company and a contemporary design. This may allow you to have a comprehensive basement condo that may be utilised as a comfy home for an individual or even a smaller family.
Incorporating indoor saunas can be a excellent concept in this regard. You will discover a lot of health benefits if you make use of a jacuzzi for relaxation every 7 days or even even daily basis. You might moreover install some workout equipment together with mirrors attached to the walls and provide the cellar with the appearance of a genuine physical fitness and health club. Converting your attic in to a video games room is yet another great option. In such circumstances you will find several styles readily available. The floor itself can produce a particular theme and feel. You'll find a number of individuals that transform their basements into a billiards parlour or darts room.
Listed below are a couple of things to keep in mind whilst obtaining a futon bunkbed. The top mattress needs to be no more than 9 inches thick. Be sure that the top bunk beds which are accessible utilising the matching ladder are surrounded by long lasting guardrails for security. Several futon bunk beds can quickly change into a couple of separate beds. Remember to select a futon bed mattress, which can fold, for the bunk below. The lower futon bed frame of a futon bunk bed folds down speedily to morph into a comfy full size bed. By no means affix or even hang any item that's not developed for use with twinover futon bunkbeds. The steel frames are powder-coated in a choice of decorative colours. Futon bunk beds may demand some assemblage utilizing typical house tools.
If constructing your own home furniture is not your idea of fun, you can purchase a cheap bunkbeds at sources on-line for bunkbeds. Pay a visit to our web site to check out the distinct designs and materials bunk beds are available in.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Z_Stacher
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5872781
Comprehensive Coffee Shop Millionaire Review
The following Coffee Shop Millionaire review covers the most important parts of this program. In almost all ways, the program is quite comprehensive in scope. This means it is a one-stop shop for all the information you will need to start making serious money online through the affiliate marketing route. There are many techniques that are presented and you may find some of them more appealing than others. In a nutshell, you will get to know all there is to know about affiliate marketing.
The first part of the Coffee Shop Millionaire review is about what the product offers. Essentially, the product is all about understanding internet marketing. Now the topic of internet marketing can be very complex with too many elements. Thankfully, this product will benefit both the newbies and the professionals.
Apart from covering the basics of affiliate marketing, the course teaches you to create a product and sell it online with the help of internet marketing and affiliates. This can be hugely profitable when done right. Of course creating a product is just one part of the story - the other more important part is to get people to promote it. The course offers all the tools necessary to get the top affiliate marketers attracted to your product and have them promote it.
This dual approach is very helpful because some people prefer to market products for others while some prefer to create their own products. The course will benefit both these types of internet marketers.
The Coffee Shop Millionaire course is ideal for beginners, and you do not need any experience at all in this field to start making money using the system. All the details, right from creating your website and registering your domain names to creating autoresponder series are covered in a comprehensive way. There are also several techniques available to promote your website.
For the professionals, there are many little known secrets of the affiliate marketing world that you can learn. The world of top affiliates can be hard to reach by ordinary people but the course shows you exactly how you can leverage their expertise to profit. You will learn many ways to meet top affiliates who would be willing to market and talk about your product. In addition, you will also understand how to foster partnerships in this exciting world of internet marketing so you can fully utilize the potential of networking. More importantly, you will get to know many well tested and proven techniques that will help you keep your affiliates motivated to sell your product. These details are hard to find elsewhere and both newcomers and professionals can greatly benefit from these tips.
In the complete Coffee Shop Millionaire review, I would like mention that it is a whole system that is designed to make money online, so you don't need to start off with knowledge, expertise, products, lists, contacts, etc. You just need to follow a system that is outlined. This is what makes it attractive to all kinds of people. The package includes a huge bonus of up to $3000 worth of products, so you get all your affiliate tools, marketing videos and material. You will also get a free website hosting service that is reliable and stable, so you don't need to spend time and money looking for one. In addition, the bonus includes free online and telephone support.
The creator of the Coffee Shop Millionaire program, Anthony Trister is a veteran internet marketer who is well known in the affiliate marketing circles. He currently makes over a million dollars every month using the system that he discusses in this program.
For a complete Coffee Shop Millionaire Review, visit http://coffee-shop-millionaire-review.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sid_Kal
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5904853
The first part of the Coffee Shop Millionaire review is about what the product offers. Essentially, the product is all about understanding internet marketing. Now the topic of internet marketing can be very complex with too many elements. Thankfully, this product will benefit both the newbies and the professionals.
Apart from covering the basics of affiliate marketing, the course teaches you to create a product and sell it online with the help of internet marketing and affiliates. This can be hugely profitable when done right. Of course creating a product is just one part of the story - the other more important part is to get people to promote it. The course offers all the tools necessary to get the top affiliate marketers attracted to your product and have them promote it.
This dual approach is very helpful because some people prefer to market products for others while some prefer to create their own products. The course will benefit both these types of internet marketers.
The Coffee Shop Millionaire course is ideal for beginners, and you do not need any experience at all in this field to start making money using the system. All the details, right from creating your website and registering your domain names to creating autoresponder series are covered in a comprehensive way. There are also several techniques available to promote your website.
For the professionals, there are many little known secrets of the affiliate marketing world that you can learn. The world of top affiliates can be hard to reach by ordinary people but the course shows you exactly how you can leverage their expertise to profit. You will learn many ways to meet top affiliates who would be willing to market and talk about your product. In addition, you will also understand how to foster partnerships in this exciting world of internet marketing so you can fully utilize the potential of networking. More importantly, you will get to know many well tested and proven techniques that will help you keep your affiliates motivated to sell your product. These details are hard to find elsewhere and both newcomers and professionals can greatly benefit from these tips.
In the complete Coffee Shop Millionaire review, I would like mention that it is a whole system that is designed to make money online, so you don't need to start off with knowledge, expertise, products, lists, contacts, etc. You just need to follow a system that is outlined. This is what makes it attractive to all kinds of people. The package includes a huge bonus of up to $3000 worth of products, so you get all your affiliate tools, marketing videos and material. You will also get a free website hosting service that is reliable and stable, so you don't need to spend time and money looking for one. In addition, the bonus includes free online and telephone support.
The creator of the Coffee Shop Millionaire program, Anthony Trister is a veteran internet marketer who is well known in the affiliate marketing circles. He currently makes over a million dollars every month using the system that he discusses in this program.
For a complete Coffee Shop Millionaire Review, visit http://coffee-shop-millionaire-review.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sid_Kal
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5904853
Choosing a Coffee Table For Your Home
Until recently, coffee tables were something of an afterthought when it came to designing a living room that was both handsome and comfortable. Hidden in the shadow of magnificent love seats, sofas and chairs, the poor old coffee table was relegated to second place and on occasion, was omitted entirely.
This has all changed, thanks in large part to the new designs that have been turned out by manufacturers in recent years that are not only beautiful, but add functionality and warmth to the living room.
In fact, a carefully selected coffee table can actually become the focal point of the room, complementing the other pieces of living room furniture while becoming the center of attention in its own right.
When choosing a coffee table for your living room, you want to consider two main factors: style and function.
Choosing a coffee table style
The perfect coffee table complements your décor, of course. Ideally, you want to select a table that is in the same style as the rest of your furnishings. For instance, a country inspired design may stick out like a sore thumb in a contemporary furnished living room. Conversely, a stainless steel and glass table may look out of place in a home decorated in a tropical style, or one that features highly ornate furnishings. Unless you are an experienced interior designer, you may want to stick to with a table that is in the same general style of the rest of your furnishings, i.e., traditional with traditional, contemporary with contemporary and so on.
Selecting a coffee table for its function
It used to be that all coffee tables were created equally. But no more. Today, you can get a range of models, some with features that weren't even on the drawing boards a decade or so ago.
For instance, if you like to eat and watch TV at the same time, you can get a table with a top that cantilevers up and out, creating an eating area that is far more convenient and elegant than TV trays. If you have children, you may want to get a coffee table that has extra storage, so you can easily store kid's toys and games while you entertain company. Some coffee tables also have thoughtful storage areas for remotes - a big help for those who have a number of them to keep track of.
If you entertain a lot, you may want to get a larger table to hold munchies and drinks. You may also want to get something that is a fairly indestructible, so that it won't mar, stain or develop rings if your guests forget to use a coaster.
Scaling your coffee table
Scale is an important consideration these days, as larger living room furniture can dwarf older tables. When looking at coffee tables you want to look for one that won't look lost in the room, overshadowed by other furnishings. Conversely, you don't want one that takes over the room either. As you measure your room and furnishings, remember that the coffee table will be about 18" away from your sofa, love seats and chairs. It needs room to breathe and it needs room for you and your guests to move around it without it getting in the way. Most tables are 16" to 18" high, but some contemporary designs can be lower, so you want to factor that in if shopping for a modern style. Ideally, your table should be one to two inches lower than the height of the seat of your furniture. As far as length, it should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa. If you have an 8' sofa, for instance, your coffee table should be a little more than 5' in length.
These are just general rules, however, as the exact scale is also determined by the size of the room and the location of the furniture.
Color/finish is important
Finally, you want to consider the color of the piece. While you want your coffee table to complement the other pieces you have, but it doesn't have to be a carbon copy of the end tables or the entertainment center. Instead, it should stand on its own while accenting the love seat, chairs and sofa you have, as the table has much more in common with these than the entertainment center that's set away from it and has a personality of its own. Remember, you want to take the entire space of the room into account, selecting a coffee table that adds to the beauty and charm, not detracts from it.
Finally, don't rush your selection. Be sure to look through the hundreds of styles available online these days. As certain ones catch your eye, note their style, their product name and the site they were on. Then start to narrow down your choices as you consider the room, your own personal tastes in décor and the character of the coffee table that hopefully will soon become a cherished addition to your living room.
Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops including that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is coffee tables for your living room or end tables for you newly remodeled home, there are many tips you can use to make any spot both functional and beautiful. Click today and indulge your senses.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Akre
This has all changed, thanks in large part to the new designs that have been turned out by manufacturers in recent years that are not only beautiful, but add functionality and warmth to the living room.
In fact, a carefully selected coffee table can actually become the focal point of the room, complementing the other pieces of living room furniture while becoming the center of attention in its own right.
When choosing a coffee table for your living room, you want to consider two main factors: style and function.
Choosing a coffee table style
The perfect coffee table complements your décor, of course. Ideally, you want to select a table that is in the same style as the rest of your furnishings. For instance, a country inspired design may stick out like a sore thumb in a contemporary furnished living room. Conversely, a stainless steel and glass table may look out of place in a home decorated in a tropical style, or one that features highly ornate furnishings. Unless you are an experienced interior designer, you may want to stick to with a table that is in the same general style of the rest of your furnishings, i.e., traditional with traditional, contemporary with contemporary and so on.
Selecting a coffee table for its function
It used to be that all coffee tables were created equally. But no more. Today, you can get a range of models, some with features that weren't even on the drawing boards a decade or so ago.
For instance, if you like to eat and watch TV at the same time, you can get a table with a top that cantilevers up and out, creating an eating area that is far more convenient and elegant than TV trays. If you have children, you may want to get a coffee table that has extra storage, so you can easily store kid's toys and games while you entertain company. Some coffee tables also have thoughtful storage areas for remotes - a big help for those who have a number of them to keep track of.
If you entertain a lot, you may want to get a larger table to hold munchies and drinks. You may also want to get something that is a fairly indestructible, so that it won't mar, stain or develop rings if your guests forget to use a coaster.
Scaling your coffee table
Scale is an important consideration these days, as larger living room furniture can dwarf older tables. When looking at coffee tables you want to look for one that won't look lost in the room, overshadowed by other furnishings. Conversely, you don't want one that takes over the room either. As you measure your room and furnishings, remember that the coffee table will be about 18" away from your sofa, love seats and chairs. It needs room to breathe and it needs room for you and your guests to move around it without it getting in the way. Most tables are 16" to 18" high, but some contemporary designs can be lower, so you want to factor that in if shopping for a modern style. Ideally, your table should be one to two inches lower than the height of the seat of your furniture. As far as length, it should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa. If you have an 8' sofa, for instance, your coffee table should be a little more than 5' in length.
These are just general rules, however, as the exact scale is also determined by the size of the room and the location of the furniture.
Color/finish is important
Finally, you want to consider the color of the piece. While you want your coffee table to complement the other pieces you have, but it doesn't have to be a carbon copy of the end tables or the entertainment center. Instead, it should stand on its own while accenting the love seat, chairs and sofa you have, as the table has much more in common with these than the entertainment center that's set away from it and has a personality of its own. Remember, you want to take the entire space of the room into account, selecting a coffee table that adds to the beauty and charm, not detracts from it.
Finally, don't rush your selection. Be sure to look through the hundreds of styles available online these days. As certain ones catch your eye, note their style, their product name and the site they were on. Then start to narrow down your choices as you consider the room, your own personal tastes in décor and the character of the coffee table that hopefully will soon become a cherished addition to your living room.
Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops including that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is coffee tables for your living room or end tables for you newly remodeled home, there are many tips you can use to make any spot both functional and beautiful. Click today and indulge your senses.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Akre
A Barista Story: A Kona Coffee Cup A Day Helps Students Excel
Recently, while sipping a cup of delicious cup of Kona Extra Fancy 'Certified' coffee, the barista said to the coffee patron: do you know that you are helping many students at the Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE) in Kona excel in class and pursue their personal dreams by drinking this Kona coffee? The coffee patron replied, what do you mean?
The barista continued: not many people know the story of the Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE). Let me share it with you, okay? The Estate was created in 1884 as a charitable land trust by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. She was the last direct descendant of King Kamehameha the Great. Pauahi's husband was a successful banker, Charles Reed Bishop. He purchased the West Hawaii "ahupuaa" of Kaahauloa and Honaunau and added it to the lands they already owned on the Big Island of Hawaii. The "ahupuaa" is a traditional Hawaiian term for the traditional land division, a wedge-shaped land parcel that goes from the seashore to the mountain slopes.
The barista paused for a minute, then continued, Pauahi was very interested in education for Hawaiians. She wanted to make sure that her estate would fund education forever. Pauahi's will established the use of her lands to generate income for the creation and operation of the Kamehameha Schools. The lands cannot be sold. Income from them goes to the schools through the long term agricultural leasehold system that is still in place today. Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE) owns close to 300,000 acres of land on the big island of Hawaii and more than half of it is used for agricultural purposes.
The coffee patron said, this is very interesting. I did not realize there was a royal connection between the Kona beans and the rich volcanic lands where the coffee plantations are located. How many farmers are there on the KSBE lands and what else do they grow besides coffee?
The barista thought for a minute and said, about 600 farmers lease tracts from KSBE. These farmers produce Kona coffee on farms that average about seven acres each. There are about 1,200 acres of KSBE-owned land in Kona coffee production. The farmers also produce macadamia nuts, exotic flowers, avocados, vegetables and some fruits. The coffee farms are a rich and friendly natural habitat for many species of birds, butterflies, ants, insects and other wildlife.
The coffee patron asked, how many students attend KSBE schools? The barista said: over 3,000 students at the main campus on Oahu but many more in the new schools added to the system financed by coffee beans primarily. The bean is definitely important to students in the Big Island. KSBE supports a college scholarship program for Hawaiian students. So, literally speaking, you can owe your future to a bean that becomes a cherry and ends up served as a cup of very fine and delicious Kona coffee.
The patron said, barista, I enjoy coming to your coffee house and drinking your coffee. You give me much to think about over my cup of Kona coffee.
Ready for a delicious Kona Extra Fancy 'Certified' coffee?
Timothy ("Tim") S. Collins, the author, is called by those who know him "The Gourmet Coffee Guy."
He is an expert in article writing who has done extensive research online and offline in his area of expertise, coffee marketing, as well as in other areas of personal and professional interest.
Come visit the author's website: http://www.ourgourmetcoffee.com
Also visit: http://www.squidoo.com/coffee-lensography-TheGourmetCoffeeGuy
© Copyright - Timothy S. Collins. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Timothy_S._Collins
The barista continued: not many people know the story of the Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE). Let me share it with you, okay? The Estate was created in 1884 as a charitable land trust by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. She was the last direct descendant of King Kamehameha the Great. Pauahi's husband was a successful banker, Charles Reed Bishop. He purchased the West Hawaii "ahupuaa" of Kaahauloa and Honaunau and added it to the lands they already owned on the Big Island of Hawaii. The "ahupuaa" is a traditional Hawaiian term for the traditional land division, a wedge-shaped land parcel that goes from the seashore to the mountain slopes.
The barista paused for a minute, then continued, Pauahi was very interested in education for Hawaiians. She wanted to make sure that her estate would fund education forever. Pauahi's will established the use of her lands to generate income for the creation and operation of the Kamehameha Schools. The lands cannot be sold. Income from them goes to the schools through the long term agricultural leasehold system that is still in place today. Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE) owns close to 300,000 acres of land on the big island of Hawaii and more than half of it is used for agricultural purposes.
The coffee patron said, this is very interesting. I did not realize there was a royal connection between the Kona beans and the rich volcanic lands where the coffee plantations are located. How many farmers are there on the KSBE lands and what else do they grow besides coffee?
The barista thought for a minute and said, about 600 farmers lease tracts from KSBE. These farmers produce Kona coffee on farms that average about seven acres each. There are about 1,200 acres of KSBE-owned land in Kona coffee production. The farmers also produce macadamia nuts, exotic flowers, avocados, vegetables and some fruits. The coffee farms are a rich and friendly natural habitat for many species of birds, butterflies, ants, insects and other wildlife.
The coffee patron asked, how many students attend KSBE schools? The barista said: over 3,000 students at the main campus on Oahu but many more in the new schools added to the system financed by coffee beans primarily. The bean is definitely important to students in the Big Island. KSBE supports a college scholarship program for Hawaiian students. So, literally speaking, you can owe your future to a bean that becomes a cherry and ends up served as a cup of very fine and delicious Kona coffee.
The patron said, barista, I enjoy coming to your coffee house and drinking your coffee. You give me much to think about over my cup of Kona coffee.
Ready for a delicious Kona Extra Fancy 'Certified' coffee?
Timothy ("Tim") S. Collins, the author, is called by those who know him "The Gourmet Coffee Guy."
He is an expert in article writing who has done extensive research online and offline in his area of expertise, coffee marketing, as well as in other areas of personal and professional interest.
Come visit the author's website: http://www.ourgourmetcoffee.com
Also visit: http://www.squidoo.com/coffee-lensography-TheGourmetCoffeeGuy
© Copyright - Timothy S. Collins. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Timothy_S._Collins
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