From chocolate to public art— here is everything I’ve been loving recently.

DAILY WALKS TO AND FROM CAMPUS

Who said not having a car and a license would be difficult?

Ok, Have I been caught in the rain a few times? Yes.

Has it been worth it? With views like these, hell yes.

I live about 30 minutes or so from Central Campus, where the Ford School is located (in case you didn’t know, I’m receiving my MPP here on a full ride).

Between the flora and fauna and beautifully structured buildings, I’ve been taking full advantage of the warm weather— the humid and heavy warmth that hangs in the balance of Summer and Fall’s tug-of-war.

How I will fare in the Winter is a different story, and we’re not on that chapter yet, so I’m choosing to enjoy the present (while stocking up on winter gear, i.e coats, and gloves).

PUBLIC ART: UMMA (University of Michigan Museum of Art)

If you have been here for a while, then you know there is nothing I love more than a good museum— and U of M alone has three (one for art, science, and archeology).

I’ve been to UMMA a few times now and I am taken aback by the breadth of exhibits - from Medieval European to Korean art— from student-curated exhibitions on community or technology— I am truly smitten.

And who would have thought? They have a Helen Frankenthaler (one of my favorite artists).

Like any museum, pictures on your phone could never do it justice. You just have to come and enjoy this student-led excellence yourself.

COFFEE

Who would have thought? Not I!

I haven’t given up tea, don’t worry. But I’ve been exploring the coffee universe for a while, and I’m pleasantly surprised.

It came to me in a dream: coffee, like wine, is enjoyed by the formation of a palette. I always had the idea that once I turned 40 or something I would magically enjoy a glass of Malbec or a dark roast. And that’s just not the case. There is no magic number— like every other muscle, your tongue (tastebuds) needs to be flexed.

You must consistently and patiently introduce new flavors, try different pairings, and do your research. It really is no different to when I’m trying out new dark chocolate (hello Honey Mama) for baking, or getting a boiling time just perfect for a ramen egg.

Slowly, but surely, even though I will always be a tea girl at heart, I’ve been enjoying a few cups here and there.

I’ll keep you updated on the journey (from left to right):

Colombian drip (Comet Coffee in Nickels Arcade): If you like a berry/chocolate combination, you’ll love this!
Iced Brown Sugar + Sea Salt Latte & Matcha Chocolate Chip Cookie (lab)
Lobster Butter drip (Roos Roast)
Cafe Con Miel (UMMA Cafe)
Honey Lavender Oat Milk Latte (Vertex)
Cafe Con Miel (UMMA Cafe)