Is it okay that I'm not feeling it this week? It's been a hard few days. As I mentioned last week, a close family friend, Keith, passed away last week and I guess I'm still in a little bit of shock. And I can't even begin to imagine what his wife is going through. They were married for 40 years and of those 20 years, they have been cherished friends, even family to us.
It just makes me hug my husband a little tighter and a little longer. It makes me want to keep in better touch with my siblings who live all over the country and even in another country. It really shouldn't take someone's passing to shake you a little bit to make you appreciate those around you more. But it has. Thank you for all of your kind thoughts on the site here and on facebook. We will gather this weekend to say good bye to Keith and I'm so glad that all of my siblings, even the ones that live far away, will be there.
My Mom reminded us all that it was almost exactly 20 years ago when Keith and Carolyn came into our lives and helped our family through one of the darkest moments we've ever had. We literally had no where to go and we even feared for our safety. You see, my biological father was a violent man and my parents were going through a divorce. Keith and Carolyn gave us a place to stay and didn't ask for anything in return. They taught me the true meaning of friendship and even the meaning of family. I don't think they have ever realized how much they gave us. And I can never truly repay them. They say you are shaped by the people who come into your lives and I only wish I can pay a fraction of what Keith and Carolyn gave us – forward.
About this recipe… This is one of those recipe non-recipes right? Like cheating? But my logic is when you're fumbling around in the morning to make your coffee at home, you want it quick and you want it good. It's really easy to make the caramel. Open up a jar of your favorite store bought caramel and measure out 1 tablespoon and add a pinch or of salt. Stir it and then zap it in the microwave at 10 seconds or less. Drizzle over the whipped cream on your coffee and you're good to go! And I have to tell you, I'm not a huge fan of pumpkin but I love the pumpkin spice flavor in it.
Pumpkin Spice Latte with Salted Caramel Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Pumpkin Spice Coffee K-Cup
- Creamer/Milk/Half & Half
- Sugar
- Whipped Cream
- 1 Tablespoon caramel sauce
- 2 pinches salt
Instructions
- Brew your pumpkin spice K-Cup in your Keurig brewer (according to manufacturer's instructions). Add as much creamer and sugar as you like.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Add caramel sauce to a small microwave safe bowl and add a pinch or two of salt and stir. Microwave for 5 to 10 seconds. Drizzle over whipped cream and serve immediately.
Use the code ESCAPE8172 on GreenMountainCoffee.com for 15% off all Café Escapes® products through 12/4/2012 @ 11:59 pm EST. And don't forget to enter in this giveaway for a chance to win your own Keurig.
Disclosure: I’m a paid K-Cup Ambassador. I only share and work with brands I love – and always share with you my own opinions.
tijuana smith (po' man meals) says
i am so sorry to hear about your loss. my prayers are with you and his family. *hugs*
Julie Deily says
Thank you so much, Tijuana.
Jen @ Savory Simple says
Yes to all of this!
Lisa | With Style and Grace says
Oh I’m so sorry love! Sending lots of hugs your way. xo
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Lisa, for the hugs. I wish I could get a hug in real life! I love seeing pictures of your little guy. 🙂
Erin @ Texanerin Baking says
Every time I’ve seen your name, like in a comment or something, I’ve thought about you, your family and Keith. It just makes me sick. I’m always extremely disturbed when I hear that someone has died, but those pictures you posted… he seemed like such a fun, caring man. I don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry and hugs for you? But it’s not enough. 🙁 I wish you all well and especially his wife.
Julie Deily says
Hi Erin, you’re so sweet, thank you for your kind words. He was really fun and hilarious. If he didn’t like you, you knew, if he loved you, he held you tight and you knew he loved you. I’m so lucky to have had him and his wife in my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them! xoxo and thank you again.
Hayley @ The Domestic Rebel says
Hello, Julie? I love you. This is the awesomest drink in all the land. Just thought you should know 🙂
Olga Lopez says
Wow this looks so so Good.
I love all kind of coffee.
Regards
Olguis.
Stephanie @ Eat. Drink. Love. says
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend, Julie. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way!
This latte looks so good! And it would certainly save money!
Julie Deily says
Hi Stephanie, thank you for your kind words.
Bunkycooks says
Hi Julie,
I am very sorry to hear about your family’s friend, Keith. I am sure he and Carolyn have made an incredible difference in your lives. All I can offer is that time makes everything seem better. Our thoughts are with you.
Gwen
Julie Deily says
Thank, Gwen. You’re such a good friend to me.
Gerry @ Foodness Gracious says
Life can be a b*$#@ sometimes, actually a lot of the time, but we have to think about the moment and what amazing things are around us. Hang in there 🙂
Julie Deily says
Gerry, so well said. Very very well said. I cried a little when I read your comment a couple of weeks ago. We need to constantly stop and look at the amazing things around us, they are there. Thank you.
Carla's Confections says
Some of my favorite recipes are non-recipes. They are so easy and that makes them the best 🙂 I am truly sorry for the loss of your friend. I can only imagine how hard that is. It definitely does put things in perspective. Keeping you and you family and friends in our prayers 🙂
Julie Deily says
Carla, thank you so much.
Brenda @ a farmgirl's dabbles says
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of such a special person in your life. What a true blessing to have known him. {Thinking of you and your family, and Carolyn.}
Julie Deily says
Brenda, thank you so much. It was truly a blessing and I’m so thankful.
Kathy - Panini Happy says
Keith and Carolyn sound like such wonderful people, I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and sending lots of hugs! xoxo
Julie Deily says
They truly are, thank you so much for the hugs, Kathy!
SoberJulie says
First off WOW this looks delicious and simple, thanks for sharing! But really I am truly sorry about your loss, thank you for sharing his story with me.
Julie Deily says
Julie, thank you so much.
Robin @ Mom Foodie says
I am sorry for your loss. I’m sure he knew how much you appreciated the kindness of he and his wife. There are bonds thicker than blood.
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Robin, and so true. Not all bonds are that are true and thick are via blood.
addie | culicurious says
This looks delicious, Julie! Thanks for the tips 🙂
You’re a very special person and I hope your pain subsides in time. You’ll always have your memories, which is truly a treasure.
All my best!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Addie. Hope you are well!
Shaina says
Julie, I know I already told you this, but it sounds as if your family has been wonderful in return to Keith and Carolyn. Keith sounds like an amazing man, who will obviously be missed. xo
Salted caramel makes my world spin, so I would hole up with this every morning if you let me. Gorgeous.
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Shaina, you’re a sweetie!
Tara @ Unsophisticook says
Can you believe I still haven’t tried to make my own Pumpkin Spice Lattes at home yet? Starbucks will be running out of syrup soon, so I guess now is a good time to give it a try!
Robyn | Add a Pinch says
I’m so sorry, Julie. Hugs to you!
Julie Deily says
Thank you so much, Robyn. xoxo
Katie says
I’m so sorry for your loss, Julie.
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Katie. xoxo
Cathy @ Noble Pig says
So sorry about your loss, it’s always hard when someone passes. Keith sounds like he was a wonderful friend.
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Cathy.
Paula says
I’m sorry about your loss. It’s evident that Keith and his family had a major impact on you and your family. I also feel that whatever blessing you received from him, he received from you ten-fold. It’s always so hard to say goodbye to a loved one. Keep his memory close and you never completely lose them.
Take good care Julie.
Julie Deily says
Paula, he really did. Thank you so much for your kindness and glad to know you through the interwebs. I hope we get to meet one day!
Chung-Ah | Damn Delicious says
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family. And Keith really sounds like such a wonderful person.
And this drink – perfection! I could wake up to this every single morning!
Julie Deily says
Chung-Ah, thank you so much, sweetie. He really was, I’m so lucky to have known him.
Cassie | Bake Your Day says
I’m so sorry, Julie! I’ve been thinking about you over the past week!!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Cassie, you’re such a sweetheart.
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc. says
my mouth is watering Julie!
Rachel @ Baked by Rachel says
I’m so sorry Julie! A loss is always so much harder to take when it’s someone special or close. I hope in time you’ll be able to find some comfort in the time you were able to spend with him.
Julie Deily says
Thank you so much, Rachel. I am glad I did get to visit with him.
Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen says
Oh Julie I’m so sorry, Keith and his wife were very special people to have when you needed them back then, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Big hugs to you.
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Sylvie. There were/are very special people to me. I hope I can pay it forward.
Tasha @ ThatsSoYummy says
Oh Julie, so sorry for your loss and will keep you and the family in my prayers… side note, this looks YUMMY!
Julie Deily says
Tasha, thank you so much.
Averie @ Averie Cooks says
Love making homemade PSL’s. Such a money and timesaver and yours looks so good.
And I am so sorry about the grief and Keith’s passing. Major hugs to you and your family!
Julie Deily says
When we finally meet, can I get a hug in person? Thank you, Averie.
Linda | The Urban Mrs says
Julie, my heart goes with you and your family. I’m sure Keith is in a better place now. I totally understand how you feel. *Hugs* You’re loved by so many people around you, so please know that we’re here for you.
On a side note, I’m ready to enjoy this drinks. So perfect before we really get into the holidays. Love the bottle mug.
Julie Deily says
Linda, you are so sweet. Thank you, it means so much to me.
Kiersten @ Oh My Veggies says
I’m so sorry Julie–sorry, again, for your loss and also for what you’ve been through in your life. I had no idea. I think just in being the kind, caring, thoughtful person that you are, you’re already paying forward what Keith & Carolyn did for your family.
Julie Deily says
Thank you so much, Kiersten. xoxo
claire @ the realistic nutritionist says
I am so so so so sorry :(And I wish I knew why it takes tragedy for us to realize what we have. It’s weird, we go through our lives so immersed in ourselves that we forget how lucky we have it and how lucky we are to have the ones we love around us.
Thinking of you. Wish I could give you a hug! Virtual will have to work for now!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Claire, and hugs right back to you. 🙂
katie says
Oh Julie. I wish I could do more for you. You know I’m here for you. I hate that it takes a tragedy for us to really realize how precious life is. I agree… keep hugging a little more, longer, tighter…
p.s. i love this coffee recipe
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Katie. You’re a great friend!
Christine (Cook the Story) says
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend Keith, Julie. He sounds like a wonderful man that you all were lucky to know. I know what you mean about needing a quick non-recipe pick-me-up when things aren’t going well. Sometimes you just need to relax a bit. You totally deserve it so do make sure to relax and to indulge. Hugs,
Christine
Julie Deily says
Thank you for the kind words, Christine.
Angie says
So sorry for your loss Julie. It’s hard when things like that happen around the holidays/
Julie Deily says
Thanks, Angie. xoxo
Carolyn says
Oh Julie, I am so sorry!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Carolyn.
Victoria says
I’ve always found that feeling this way it is imperative that you act on your instinct to pay it forward. When my brother died, I bought groceries for the person behind me; paid the tolls for the next person; and paid for the next person in the drive through’s food (or at least a chunk of it). I always mention that it was for my brother who had a whimsical, surprising side and I wanted to celebrate his life. I always felt closer to him then and while it didn’t take the pain away, it def gave me something to smile about thinking about the recipient’s reaction.
Julie Deily says
Victoria, I’m so sorry for the loss of your brother. You’re so right and thank you for sharing.
Heidi @foodiecrush says
Oh Julie, what a hard time for you and your family. I’m so sorry for your loss, it sounds like he was very important to you.
Julie Deily says
He was very, Heidi. Thank you for your kind thoughts.
shelly (cookies and cups) says
I love this recipe and am so sorry to hear about your loss. I had no idea.
Hugs!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Shelly, for the hugs. 🙂
Kelly Senyei says
I am thinking about your constantly Julie and sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. Lean on friends and family. We are here for you!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, dear friend. Hope you are doing well! Miss you!
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says
Mmm looks heavenly!
Brian @ A Thought For Food says
Why oh why do you torture me? This looks so perfect right now (you wouldn’t understand… but it’s FREEZING here!)
Kristen says
Grief is so hard. I am so sorry for your loss, friend!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Kristen.
Sommer@ASpicyPerspective says
I’ve got that coffee in the kitchen right now. Think I need to go “doctor-up” a cup!
amy @ fearless homemaker says
I’m so sorry for your loss, Julie, but you’ve written a beautiful, moving tribute to Keith. It sounds like he and his wife were absolutely instrumental in making a scary, challenging time for your family so much brighter + full of love. I’ll be keeping all of you in my thoughts. xo
Julie Deily says
Thank you for your kind words. I hope I did him justice. He was larger than life and completely hilarious and so giving.
[email protected] says
So sorry to hear about the passing of your friend Julie. You were truly blessed to have Keith in your life and I’m sure you and your family were a blessing to him as well. I do believe we are shaped by the people that come into our lives. My in-laws took me in and helped me get my feet on the ground after I left home, and I am so eternally grateful. Although they have both passed away, I am a better person as a result of their generosity and love. Thinking of you. xo Jeanette
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Jeanette. I was truly blessed to have him in my life. I am definitely a better person for having him in my life. It’s amazing how we don’t reflect as often as we should until…
Joanne @ Fifteen Spatulas says
Got the chills reading this post, I am very sorry to hear about that dark moment in your life but it’s wonderful that Keith and Carolyn were so welcoming at that time. Sending hugs!
Julie Deily says
Thank you, Joanne! Hope you have a nice holiday season!
Kathryn says
Oh Julie, my thoughts are really with you and your family xo
Julie Deily says
Kathryn, thank you so much! xoxo