Funny how some people simply makes you a better person.

Ear-food: 'Red House' (Wild Light)

Celebrating Christmas in the mountains this year.

Ear-food: 'The Break' (Absinthe Blind)

So far today I've been shopping gifts, lunching, delivering gifts and visiting family. Now an hour by myself before this evening's traditional Christmas come-together at some friends' in the neighborhood. Oh, have to wrap up one more present before I go.

Ear-food: 'Aamuauringon Tuntuinen' (Paavoharju)

Christmas party in one hour. Gotta stay sharp tonight - keep things separated.

Ear-food: 'L.E.S. Artistes' (Santogold)

Ended up spending even this day together. Nice lunch overlooking the city.

Ear-food: 'Rebel In You' (Supergrass)

Small talk at a nearby bar after work. Starting to realize she's becoming my best friend.

Ear-food: 'Plastic lions' (Eberg)

Nice hotel weekend.

Ear-food: 'Weighty Ghost' (Wintersleep)

Seriously: Can one particular coffee bar serve espresso of such a quality that it stands out from all the others, and actually deserves the title The Best Espresso In The World? I mean, really?

In my opinion: Yes. The espresso at Sant Eustachio really is in a league of it's own. I've had more than my fair share of espressos around the world, but there's no comparison - this is the alchemy of espresso making.

And if you wonder; yes, the thick foamy stuff at the picture that looks like crema - is exactly that.

For an espresso freak a visit to Sant Eustachio is simply worth a trip to Rome alone.

(And of course: When you make espresso like this, a boring plain white cup is more than sufficient.)

Ear-food: 'Melanie' (David Holmes)