6th June, 2009 - Caffeine

I think I have a caffeine problem. Here is my daily quota:

7.15am - One mug. Instant. While staring a bit blankly at the children as they drop Cheerios on the floor.

8.30am - One mug. Instant. Brought to me by my long-suffering secretary, who will generally accompany this with a report of how useless my dictation was yesterday.

10am – One mug. Instant. Morning coffee time at work. By this stage, it is usually clear whether the day will be a disaster or whether it is likely to be worse than usual.

11am – Two cups. Strong. From the machine in the Bakers shop. Usually after these two cups I begin to feel a bit sick and light-headed.

1pm – One cup. Espresso. From whichever inn or tavern I am taking luncheon in. I usually shake a little immediately after this.

3pm – One mug. Instant. Afternoon coffee. By this stage I am in a little zone of caffeine where the world seems to buzz and pulsate.

4pm – One mug instant. Brought in by the other office caffeine junky (although she prefers tea). She brings it in with a conspiratorial air. We are like junkies. We would kill for this cup.

5pm – One mug. Instant. Just to keep me going till it’s time to leave.

6.30pm - One mug. Instant. After dinner. Just to unwind you know.

Oh God. I didn’t actually realise it was that bad. I thought this was going to be a light and humorous look at caffeine. I am addicted. I really ought to cut down, but even typing those words – cut down – has given me a bit of a headache.