I would like to take a moment to share with my friends and family a sad break up of a beautiful relationship.

This particular relationship was with a soul mate that has been with me since I arrived in China.  You could say that he got me through some tough times.  I mean, he offered me sweetness and comfort when I was new to this unfamiliar place.  He went with me to school and shopping trips.  He was even with me on several death defying cab rides.  I can’t tell you what how much I depended upon him.  We were partners in crime.

And his name is Andes Mocha.

Yes. I am talking about coffee from a café called Andes.  My parents, Aunt, and Uncle will attest that this is some good coffee.  I had a similar relationship with my Krups espresso maker in San Diego.  Each day, Krups and I would share a smile as I prepared my mocha.  It was beautiful thing. I still miss him.

Now, in an effort to stop the flow of money that leaves my pocket each day, I have been examining my spending choices.  I’ve come to the conclusion that this particular activity isn’t pleasant, but like going to the dentist, it’s necessary for a healthy smile.

In my defense, I realized early on that dinners and drinks with friends here adds up. Quickly.  So I have been good about budgeting and simply not spending my money that way.  But then I calculated how much I shell out for coffee.

Do you know that feeling when you wish you had a time machine so you could go back and tell yourself something?  Like the other day, I wish I could have gone back in time so I could give myself a hug for buying Peanut M&Ms for my lunch.  Or go back to my early twenties and tell myself to start a Roth IRA.  You know, little or big, a time machine would come in handy sometimes.

As for my coffee, I figured out a pretty good estimate and let’s just say; I could have funded my entire trip to Thailand on what I have spent on some milk, chocolate, and espresso.  Thailand.

With that said, I am just glad that I figured it out now.  This is not a proud moment, but I know now that when Andes Mocha wants to visit, I have to think of my next adventure and decide… is he worth it?

It’s not you; it’s me, Andes Mocha. Me and my wallet.