I once wrestled a cactus..
A Story from the Desert
The other morning, I had what I can only describe as an “Arizona moment.” It was one of those quiet desert dawns—the kind that tricks you into thinking the day will stay cool, even though by noon the sun will be cooking the sidewalk like a skillet.
I stepped outside with a fresh mug of Outlaw Blend in hand, planning to just breathe in the morning. That was the plan, anyway.
Just as I lifted the cup for my first sip, my neighbor’s cat (who I swear has a vendetta against me) came flying across the yard like a desert rocket. In my noble effort to save the coffee from spilling, I stumbled and—yes, you guessed it—landed squarely in a prickly pear cactus.
It turns out, cacti are not forgiving. They don’t care that you’re holding fresh-brewed coffee. They don’t care that you woke up early just to enjoy the sunrise. They exist for one purpose: to keep desert-dwellers humble.
As I stood there plucking spines from my jeans and muttering words not fit for a family newsletter, I couldn’t help but laugh. Coffee still in hand, still warm, still perfect. And that was the real victory.
🌵 Desert Life Tip of the Month
If you live in the desert, hydration is everything—especially with coffee in the mix. For every cup of coffee you enjoy, drink a full glass of water alongside it. Not only does it keep you feeling balanced in the heat, but it also lets you taste the coffee more clearly without desert dryness stealing the spotlight.
This Month’s Recipe: Honey Cinnamon Iced Latte 🍯☕
Since mornings don’t always go as planned, a sweet and steady recipe feels like the right way to make up for a cactus encounter. This one is refreshing enough for desert heat, but the cinnamon and honey give it just a whisper of fall.
Ingredients
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2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
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1 tbsp honey
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¾ cup milk (dairy, oat, or almond all work beautifully)
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Ice cubes
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Optional: sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or drizzle of honey on top
Directions
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Brew & sweeten: Pull your espresso or brew strong coffee. Stir in honey and cinnamon while hot.
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Ice it down: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over.
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Add milk: Slowly pour in cold milk, letting it swirl into marbled ribbons.
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Finish strong: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar or drizzle honey on top.
Extra Touch: Try it with our Saguaro Blend Espresso Roast for a bold base or Outlaw Blend for a smoother sip. Either way, it’s a glass worth slowing down for.
Seasonal Favorites Are Back 🎃🍪
The wait is over—our Pumpkin Spice and Gingerbread roasts are available starting today! Cozy, aromatic, and perfect for the cooler months ahead. Prices are locked in until January 15th, so you can stock up for the entire holiday season without worry.
Shipping Update 📦
As of September 9, 2025, we now offer flat rate shipping for all orders:
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Arizona orders (non-local): $7.00 under 10 lbs / $10 over 10 lbs
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All other U.S. orders under $50: $10.00
This keeps things simple and predictable, so you know exactly what to expect when you order your favorite beans. Policies are always subject to change, however, we care about our customers and will always be as transparent as possible.
Until Next Time…
Life in the desert has a sense of humor, and sometimes you’re the punchline. But as long as the coffee survives, you’ve already won.
Here’s to cactus-dodging, cat-dodging, and sipping something that makes the chaos taste a little sweeter.
With gratitude,
The Sonoran Bean Team
Price of coffee per lb as of 9/14/25: $4.04
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