I’m a great believer in doing something new every day. It’s not always possible as life can get in the way from time to time. However, this morning I did one of those things that I’ve always wanted to do. I used a ‘proper’ espresso machine in an Italian friend’s cafe/bar to make my own morning espresso.

After years of watching baristas performing this lovely ritual, I had a go myself including my favourite bit – banging the thing (that’s the technical term!) with the coffee in it twice to empty the’ old’ coffee from the previous serving. And although I loved the coffee-making ritual itself, I must admit, the espresso itself was actually quite good. And as for, me and the espresso machine, I think this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship…