Pumpkin spice lattes & a moment of Zen
My first PSL of the season. I take it with soy.
It’s buttery. It savors heavily of nutmeg. And it’s only available a few months of the year.
I watch the wind blow outside with an overcast sky where there’s usually baking sunlight. Never mind that it’s still in the 90s with 100% humidity. Today is the first day of September. And it’s the first day of pumpkin spice latte season. A big deal for coffee-lovers everywhere.
Every year on September 1st, Starbucks rolls out its premier fall latte. It’s only around until January or so (I think). Anyone who is a fan of the PSL (that’s an industry term) gets word of the release and is certain to celebrate with their own as soon as humanly possible.
I’m not sure what it is about the PSL that drives other lovers to rush out on September 1 to partake, but for me it signals the return of my favorite season, as well as something much bigger.
Like so many other driven busy-bodies, I have a hard time slowing down and taking in my surroundings, enjoying the day for what it is, and truly being in the moment. Except when I sit down with a hot pumpkiny latte.
For example, I’m sitting in a Starbucks right now. And despite my recent health problems, some seriously active allergies and an uncertain 3-6 months ahead of me, all I seem to notice is the buttery, spicy latte at my side, the Smiths on my headphones, and the grayness of the sky.
What’s your pumpkin spice latte?
I remember making those things. people who go nuts for them…
..oh and you’re my pumpkin spice latte Holly! ;D
Mine is a pumpkin spice microbrew up here in Maine. Pumpkinhead by Shipyard Brewing. I literally buy on opening day and have been to the brewery the day they released the first keg. Pretty sure it isn’t my healthiest option, but it’s just SO good.
THANK YOU for this golden nugget of information – you just made my morning (and my Wednesday, otherwise known as the WORST day of the week!) I didn’t know the “PSLs” had arrived! I too am a big fan – I even turned my husband onto them (and he’s a diehard Dunkin Donuts “extra lahge, cream and three sugahs” kind of guy.) Nothing beats sipping on one, especially when you’re outside strolling around in the fresh fall air, leaves dancing all over the sidewalks and the cool crisp breeze bringing with it only smells that fall can make. Shockingly, here in Boston, it already feels like fall, too!
For better or for worse, my ‘pumpkin spice latte’ is a cigarette and a regular cup of coffee in the morning. Since my wife has already left for work by then, and my son isn’t awake, it’s the one time that I get to myself. Few and far between, so it’s savored.
Holly your pumpkin spice latte moment sounds just perfect. For me my personal ‘PSL’ is some good dark chocolate and a strong cup of tea, in the evening, after the baby has gone to sleep. Its my moment of personal indulgence. Simple pleasures properly savoured are good for the soul. Wonderful post.
Wait, Pumpkin Spice Latte’s are out? Score! I know where I’ll be on Tuesday morning on my way to work!
I had my first PSL of the season last week. Nummy. I enjoyed this post.