Coffee grinds and a properly functioning maker have been a staple part of my household ever since I can remember in the most literal sense of the word. My first taste of coffee, however, failed to show me how this dark brown concoction could be “necessary,” much less enjoyable. Sitting shot-gun next to my dad car as we patiently waited our turn in car line, he offered me a taste of his morning cup of Joe. Curious, I decided to give it a whirl. I quickly coughed up that “curiosity,” and sent little flecks of coffee all over my white uniform blouse. Not the ideal start to the day for your typical third grader, or anyone for that matter.
Now that I have entered the world of higher education and all things collegiate, I cannot seem to get enough of that bittersweet cup of energy. What is responsible for my change in heart and taste from that fateful third-grade day, I cannot say, but this I do know- I would be lost without it. Of course, it goes without saying no long night of studying can be accomplished without coffee, and there is always a good Keurig around somewhere to help the perseverant studier out. My academics (and life for that matter!), simply would not be possible if it were not for the help of my favorite little coffee shop: Carpe Diem.
Nestled in the heart of the historic Spring Hill region of Mobile, Alabama, Carpe Diem has called its place along Old Shell road home for 20 years now. Unlike your typical coffee chains, Carpe--as the regulars call it--is a place all its own. Tucked just across the street from the beautiful Spring Hill College, Carpe Diem is run out of an old midtown home with as much charm as anyone could expect to find in the Deep South. But of course, what good is such an aesthetically pleasing coffee venue without good coffee? Carpe proudly roasts and grinds all- yes all- of the coffee they serve right on sight! This delicious aroma carries from a small side room where the roasting takes place, and even reaches my own nose while on campus just across the way. Let me tell you, once those little beans have been roasted to perfection and ground into the delicacy that they are, scoop some up!
Nearly any time I come across some spare cash, or any money really, you can bet your dollar that my dollars will be amidst a coffee consuming transaction at Carpe. Between the papers that need writing, the history texts that need reading, and the softball that needs practicing, the workload never lightens and there is always something to do. This is where my cherished “go juice” as I like to call it, supplied by my favorite shop comes in clutch. My addiction supplied by Carpe, is often the host of many intense study and work session, where some of my most productive days have come from.
Besides the students who flock to Carpe for the same reasons I do, it’s the perfect place for grabbing a cup of coffee or a sweet treat with a friend, or for the precious little families who come through to congregate and just enjoy the world around them. Whether you find yourself cramming for the ever dreaded impending finals season, or in need of just a little me time, Carpe is the people’s place that will be loved by the city of Mobile until the end of time.
