Welcome to another weekly roundup of the most interesting and thought-provoking blog posts! This week, we're diving into a diverse range of topics, from the perfect after-work cocktail to the trials and tribulations of modern dating, the commercialization of religious holidays, and the comforting power of books. So grab a drink (perhaps a clarified coffee negroni?) and settle in for a good read.
The Perfect Pick-Me-Up: Cornus' Clarified Coffee Negroni
Need a jolt of energy and a relaxing cocktail? Look no further than the clarified coffee negroni, courtesy of Mario Arangue️z, bar manager at Cornus in London. This innovative drink combines the best of both worlds: the kick of espresso with the sophisticated bitterness of a negroni. It's the perfect solution for those nights when you need a stiff drink the moment you walk through the door. Arangue️z suggests keeping a premix in the fridge for easy access. Cheers to that!
If you're looking for a recipe, try this one:
Combine equal parts gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and cold brew coffee. Clarify using a milk-washing technique for a smooth, sediment-free finish. Garnish with a coffee bean.
Flatmate Feuds: Early Birds vs. Night Owls
Ah, the joys of shared living. This week, we explored a classic domestic dilemma: what happens when an early riser clashes with a night owl? The scenario involves Reggie, a night owl, and Kevin, an early bird, whose morning routine is disrupting Reggie's sleep. The question posed is: should Kevin keep the noise down? It's a debate as old as time, and one that many can relate to. What do *you* think?
It's worth considering that communication is key in any shared living situation. As one article suggests, "I hate talking to anyone for the first two hours of my day. I think that should be respected." But where does one draw the line between personal preference and shared responsibility?
Finding Solace in Stories: Lucy Mangan on Reading Romance
In a more poignant piece, Lucy Mangan shares how she coped with the grief of losing her father by immersing herself in romance novels. She found comfort in the predictable happy endings and humorous heroines, a welcome escape from the harsh realities of life. "Grief is an intensifier," she writes, "it strips away the nonsense and leaves your essential nature." It's a reminder of the power of books to heal and offer solace during difficult times.
Ramadan and Retail: A Clash of Cultures?
Nadeine Asbali raises an important point about the increasing commercialization of Ramadan. From "salam" shower gel to "ethnic" bedding, companies are jumping on the bandwagon, often missing the true essence of the holiday. As Asbali notes, Ramadan is a time for fasting, prayer, and community, not consuming and comparing. It begs the question: can businesses celebrate a religious holiday respectfully, or is it inherently exploitative?
Dating Disasters and Dog Toy Destruction
Finally, we wrap up with a couple of lighthearted stories. One blind date reveals a humorous faux pas: expressing a distaste for German food only to discover your date's German heritage! And Tim Dowling hilariously recounts the never-ending cycle of buying "indestructible" dog toys that are promptly destroyed, much to his wife's amusement. It's a reminder that even in the midst of life's complexities, there's always room for laughter.
That's all for this week's blog roundup! We hope you enjoyed the diverse perspectives and found something that resonated with you. Until next time, happy reading!