I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to make a post about coffee.

But if you’ve paid attention to some of my photos, you’ll notice about 75% of my counter space is devoted to coffee.

So clearly, coffee is of high value and great importance to me.

And while I’ll take coffee in any form I can get it, I’ve come to favor it in the form of a latte (or, perhaps more accurately, a “cafe au lait”).

But frequenting Starbucks or investing in a Nespresso or what have you can add up, in more ways than one.

I’ve got a healthier, budget friendly option for you that changed my coffee game.

Here’s what you’ll need:

#1: Aerolatte Handheld Milk Frother

Well, any handheld milk frother will do, but this one has been a winner for me so far. Pick one up on Amazon or at your nearest Bed Bath & Beyond

#2: 1% Milk

Keeps the calories low and the frothiness high.

#3: Flavored Coffee

Eliminate the need for syrups with flavored coffee. I may love coffee, but just imagine how wonderful it is to wake up to the smell of Chocolate Raspberry Torte coffee, which I get from Kroger. It’s heavenly.

With the mugs I use, 1/3 cup of milk usually suffices, but it depends on the size of your mug.

Microwave the milk for 40-45 seconds, froth it up, then pour in your brewed coffee.

A lot of times, taking a little extra time for myself in small ways helps me slow down and find joy in the little things in life.

While starting the day with coffee is never a bad idea in my book, taking a couple extra steps to make something I enjoy, and then taking the time to savor it, helps me start my day on the right foot.