Espresso for the Heart - A Sweet Start
by Louise Bergmann DuMont

Putting together a dream-come-true wedding using metropolitan area resources is easy; but doing it without second mortgaging your home is a bit more difficult. I recently conducted interviews with a group of newlyweds for my next book* and one couple, who was on a shoestring budget, competently met the challenge. They were able to create a memorable wedding, a delightful reception, and provide a compelling spiritual message for their guests without breaking the bank.

Martin & Melody’s ceremony was held in a quaint country church with all the charm of a picture postcard. Their reception, set to generously serve one hundred family members and friends, took place in the nearby fellowship hall. The couple personalized their special day by adding two elements, chocolate and coffee, to every aspect of the event. Needless to say their guests were eager to see the results.

The bridal attendants dressed in doe colored silk that draped like mocha clouds around the girls feet. The groomsmen sported tuxedos in a deep espresso brown. Instead of rice or birdseed, the guests were given coffee and chocolate scented streamers to toss when the newlyweds emerged from the church. At the reception a gleaming brass espresso-cappuccino machine was set on crisp brown linens, lined with ivory rose petals. Cocoa dusted mocha cappuccinos, rich brown espressos and frothy sweet lattes accompanied slices of chocolate-chocolate wedding cake.

But the best was yet to come. Neatly arranged to one side of the coffee bar were stack upon stack of gourmet chocolate bars. Dark, milk and white chocolate were lavished with raisins, almonds and caramel. Whatever an individual’s preference, they would find it waiting here. Before each guest departed the bride and groom presented them with the chocolate of their choice, custom-wrapped in a pale brown wrapper with gold lettering. Each read: "I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star." The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. Rev 22:16-17 NIV

I can’t think of a sweeter way to start married life.

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. I Thessalonians 2:8

*Louise’s upcoming book is tentatively titled – If a Tux Could Talk: The Men Who Help Plan Their Weddings, and the Women Who Love Them For It. If are going to be married, or if you were wed within the last five years, please feel free to fill out either the bride or the groom's survey on Louise's website - www.louisedumont.com

Caffe Seit

Caffe Seit
...from the Coffee Cafe
by Louise Bergmann DuMont

"Luisa. Caffe Seit!" I still hear the echo of my mother’s call despite the years that have lapsed.

Although "Caffe Seit" means "coffee time" in my native German tongue, this repast embraces so much more than grabbing a mug of Java. Simple sweets are usually served along with the coffee and if company is expected, we might be treated to the likes of a rich butter cream torte, a fruit laden tart heaped with fresh whipped cream, or melt-in-your-mouth Butter Cookies. My mom seldom had to call me twice since, along with my love for coffee, I had a real weakness for desserts.

There is something special about coffee served with home baked goodies. They fit together like rosy cheeks and a young child. The slight bite of the coffee is a perfect match for the sweet, creaminess of cheesecake or the crisp snap of a thin wafer cookie. When I was a child, this wonderful blend of coffee and sweets would always bring a smile; but as I grew older, I realized that the confectioneries and the tasty beverage were only a small part of what brought me pleasure. The purpose of coffee time was to relax and delight the good things of God. Caffe Seit was not an option in my mother’s home. There was no guilt for leaving our work and no hesitation to do so. This rest was to be savored and everything else would have to wait. There is a lot to be learned from the practice of Caffe Seit. The world of the 21st century tells us to rush around twenty-four seven, but God calls us to take regular breaks. When I sip my coffee, a staple in my home, I am reminded that God supplies my daily needs. As I nibble my special treats I realize that God also sends me extraordinary blessings.

I'm grateful that my mother taught me to work hard but I'm also glad she reminded me to set aside my work to spend time with family, friends and the One who provides me with both the honorable staples and the delightful extravagances.

"For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.."Exodus 20:11