(Part 2) Best beverage serverware according to redditors

Sorry, just want to hijack your comment regarding reusable water bottles.

They already are here. It's a big thing with the green/yoga set now.

I just got a set of borosilicate glass bottles. (They look really cool. I separately ordered neoprene sleeves for them). But instead of putting regular filtered water in them, I load them with an assortment of fresh-brewed green & white teas.

& also some bpa-free sport plastic infuser bottles. The infuser bottles have screens in them or filter bins, where you can put slices of fresh fruit, herbal teas and whatever.

This is a whole thing now. If you want to try one out, try going to a TJMaxx where they have a shelf full of yoga stuff at half off.

It is but don’t waste that money.



https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B4FY8YO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QoRKAbBW18T9F



And then some Coleman butane/propane fuel from Walmart for $5


And then a good liter camp cup. I recommend this

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007OJKI2U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kvRKAbZDCD0DN


And then a French press.

You can be selfish:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9ZTL6U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-wRKAbS4WN09P


Or be the hero the platoon needs:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012FRA8UC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_myRKAbK7P7BYP

You can buy a big ole coffeemaker for like 30 bucks and make whatever kind of fancy pants coffee you and your friends like

Hi! If you want to get into tea, I would reccomend starting by watching Alton Brow's episode on tea here. It's a good background on everything involving tea and tea brewing.

If you have a Peet's Coffee near you, you can go and order mugs of tea (brewed with loose leaf). They will give you free hot water refills so you can drink as much as you can handle. You can find a tea you like without having to commit to a huge container.

I prepare my tea in the morning in a tea pot (I have this one, but I don't like it because it's hard to clean) and pour it into a travel mug.

They make travel mugs that are similar to a frech press (here) where you put the leaves and hot water in and just push down a stopper to stop brewing. I'm really picky about the lids on my travel mugs, so I don't own one.

For resusable tea bags, the most popular style is a [tea ball] (http://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Stainless-Steel-Mesh-Ball/dp/B00004RIZ7/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407090137&sr=8-1&keywords=tea+ball) (although the one I linked is a little too small to allow the tea to fully unfold). They are cheap and fairly easy to clean, but you have to be careful where you store them so they don't get bent up.

They also make tea bags for loose leaf tea. These would be easy to pop into your travel mug. You can also find bags made of muslin that can be washed out, but I don't know where you would do that.

Here are two other options:

ZENS Glass Teapot Set,Teapot with Infusers for Loose Tea,Tea Set with Case,1 Cup Tea Set,Small Teapot,White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071Y4H8KJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TY0XCbJVVT82T

Tea Water Separation Cup Travel Mug Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle Tea Cups for Men Portable Tea Thermos 600ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K2SJD5G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tZ0XCb52R0P4Q

I have also heard Adagio has some:

https://www.adagio.com/teaware/travel.html

I've got one of these.

I'm usually lazy and do the cold brew method overnight. The filter on the basket is great. I've never had an issue with tea leaves getting through the filter. The only thing is that the pitcher is tall and will only fit in the door of my fridge.

One of the Kamjove gongfu tea pots would be perfect. They're like other gravity steepers, but have volumes that are more appropriate for gongfu style tea. Kamjove isn't the only brand, but it's one of the more prominent ones.

https://www.amazon.com/KAMJOVE-Gongfu-Teapot-filter-heat-resistant/dp/B00S602A18/ref=pd_sim_79_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=Y4FDZJHPER4K4HT2ZPYG

No worries. With that in mind, you'll want to do a few things before anything else.

You'll have a few challenges ahead of you, but if you're willing to put in some elbow grease and a bit of cash, and your friends are amiable to you making a few modifications, you can have a nice tiny house. The fact that you're looking at living there for the next few years implies you're willing to do some work to make it nice. Your immediate challenges include:

• Weatherproofing. The shed will need to be insulated so you can stay comfortable, and ideally with a moisture barrier to keep mold away. Read up on insulation requirements here and vapor barriers here.
  
• Electricity. You'll need some power in the shed for things like your computer, charging your phone, running an air conditioner, etc.
  
• Privacy. You cannot be caught or else you'll be out on your ass, so avoiding the neighbors as much as possible is a must.
  
• Comfort. You'll need a bed, space for your belongings, and some basic creature comforts for those days when you simply can't go anywhere else.
  
  One thing missing is plumbing. I am hopefully correct in assuming that your friends will allow you to use their bathroom, shower, etc.
  
  First, you'll need to insulate the place. This is to keep your space warm during cooler times and cool during warmer times. The easiest way to accomplish this is with foam sheeting insulation, available at Home Depot, Lowes, etc. You simply cut the foam to size and press it in between the studs that make up the walls; friction holds it in place. Cut as carefully as you can as any gaps means a space where heat can bleed through. If your friends are okay with it, you can patch up small gaps between the foam and the studs using expanding spray foam insulation. Insulating the roof is a little more challenging but can be done in much the same way. I'm not a contractor so you'll want to do some research into installing insulation and vapor barriers.
  
  Once insulation is in place you can finish the walls with drywall or other wall coverings, nailed into the studs. Drywall has higher cost and is harder to work with; you might want to consider something simpler like wood paneling. If you want to go on the cheap and are willing to work a bit, start collecting and disassembling shipping palettes. Remove all the nails from the boards, sand the boards smooth, then nail the boards between the studs to cover the walls. When you're done you can paint it or stain it or seal it.
  
  The bare plywood floor is going to be a turnoff, and I would avoid carpet since you won't have a way to clean it. On the plus side, since the shed will be a small space you can get a couple of boxes of good quality vinyl plank flooring and lay it all down in a single afternoon. It'll be durable, attractive, and easy to clean.
  
  For electricity, don't even think about running an extension cord as there's too many ways that could go wrong. I might consider two options. A couple of solar panels on the roof connected to a couple of simple car batteries can provide reasonable DC power for indoor LED lighting, charging your phone, running a fan or Bluetooth speaker, and other low-load devices. Supplement that with a gas-powered generator for higher load items like an air conditioner. Gasoline generators are cheap and run for up to eight hours on a tank of gas. When shopping, find one that's QUIET and reliable (read: Honda).
  
  If the shed has any windows you'll want to install something that will keep light from bleeding out and prevent people from peeking in. The last thing you want is for a cop car to drive by and wonder why there are lights on in a shed late at night. Consider applying mirrored blackout film (allows light in, doesn't allow light out) to the windows and installing blackout curtains on the inside.
  
  Air circulation is going to be key to your comfort. A hang-out-the-window air conditioner isn't in your future, nor is lighting a fire. Consider a small portable heater/AC unit that you can connect to your generator for power. Some of the better ones also act as dehumidifiers (if you're in a damp area) which can be helpful. If your shed has cross ventilation grates near the roof, consider changing them out for powered fans that can be connected to your solar batteries, and are reversible so that you can have good airflow as needed.
  
  A convertible bed or futon would likely be your best approach for sleeping arrangements. If your shed's roof has horizontal beams inside like the green boards pictured here then you might even be able to get creative with some plywood and build a loft bedroom up there. Screw down the plywood, cover the floor with more vinyl planks, put a small mattress up there, and set up a ladder to get up and down.
  
  Then it's just an exercise in minimal living. Forget about a big TV or high-end gaming computer; use a laptop as your "entertainment center" and stream everything. (Oh, right: If your wifi isn't strong enough from the house you may want to bump your data plan to "unlimited" and use your phone as your internet access point for your laptop.) Be careful with appliances as they often consume a lot of electricity (you don't want to be running your generator 24/7). An insulated water cooler filled with ice and water from the house can provide a convenient and cool water source for several days.

I find it is easier to just keep the coffee hot. I just bought a thermal Zojirushi carafe from Amazon. I made coffee at 11am and it was still hot at 7pm.

Zojirushi AHGB-10SE Vacuum Insulated Thermal Carafe, 1.0 Liter, Polished Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016S4TJS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_B3MOCbD83M4YC

Specifically:

BUNN HT Phase Brew 8-Cup Thermal Carafe Home Coffee Brewer

EDIT: 2nd item is Avalon Bay AB-ICE26B Portable Ice Maker

Oh wow, someone said world peace so now this seems to trite. But maybe this could help check someone off your gift list.

These blooming flower teas look beautiful. I would love the experience of putting one of these hand sewn tea flowers in and watching is "bloom" into life before me. Like usual, I didn't buy one for myself but I did get two of them plus the glass teapots for two wonderful women in my life. I hope they enjoy them very much.

Zojirushi AHGB-10SE

I bought this to keep coffee hot for my office. It has kept coffee hot for 7+ hours and the coffee still tastes great.

The only con I have is that I should have bought a bigger size...

Yess the good stuff!! This is the one in the video, but I'd actually recommend the IngenuiTea or IngenuiTea2 - they're a bit easier to clean IMO! Happy tea-making! 🍵🙏

I think this is it.

I believe it's this set. I have that set my self.

You might like Music City Tea. They have some good tea sets and tea trays.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00G1MZD4O/ref=psdcmw_367228011_t1_B00Q5DTJQM

KAMJOVE Glass Gongfu Teapot Press Art Tea Cup Teapot with filter TP-140 300ml heat-resistant glass https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S602A18

I want this teapot because I drink a lot of tea and it would save me some time.

I have one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Takeya-64-Ounce-Silicone-Handle-Avocado/dp/B003DTLNI8/ref=pd_sim_k_6

But I got it at TJ Maxx for $12.99. But now that I have it, I think it's definitely worth the money. It's really easy to clean, too.

We brought one of these and filled it with water. We also brough a little scrub brush and some soap. Precooking as much stuff as you can is definitely the way to go. And if you are going to cook bring foil and it will make it a little less messy if you put that down first.

Walmart for the jars, Amazon for the 304 stainless steel spigot. This is the one I use

Hario V60 Serving Carafe - $28 - A normal carafe which compliments the V60. You can substitute any other carafe which fits the V60, although this comes with a lid and fits perfectly.

Some kettles do continuously reheat up to near boiling or whatever temp you specify if it's variable temp. Another solution would be a carafe like this you can use to dispense water. http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-Polished-Stainless-Insulated-Thermal/dp/B0016S4TJS

Very exciting, I hope you enjoy the hell out of it for many years. I've written about this before but you might be surprised when you get out there how little you need any kind of formal system. KISS, at least to start. :) To wit:

> Ideally we'd like enough power to power 1 or 2 led nights [sic] at night, maybe a small 32in TV etc. If there is enough power, a coffee maker maybe.

All that said I may not even get to my place next week and if I do I may die in the cold there, so there is the downside to just winging it. Do you have any pictures to post of what you got?

Try an insulated/double walled mug (I have several), and you could also invest in a mug warmer to keep it warm.

I also just started using a cast iron tea kettle that is heated underneath by a tea candle, and use small tea cups such as these. So the amount you pour is less, but the amount you drink will always be at that sweet spot and you just refill.

Hope this helps!

My suggestion is a Bonavita thermal brewer or Bunn Phase brewer or similar (this list is not very long), and a Baratza grinder of some sort. The refurbished Maestro Plus is $95, and would fit nicely into your overall budget.

Please don't go blow a bunch of money on a Technivorm to use with pre-ground. There is no way you don't have time to spend an extra 30 seconds making coffee every day.

If you won't take the time to make decent coffee, capsule brewers (e.g. Keurig) are somewhat less awful than pod brewers, if only because they are designed to do what they do a lot better. Much more waste, though.

I kinda like this one: http://www.poshbananasdirect.co.uk/mr-t-lisenced-product-tea-for-one-teapot-and-cup-set---quirky-gift-idea-for-men---mr-t-merchandise-2108-p.asp

oh and this one:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Doctor-Who-Tardis-Tea-DR182/dp/B0083AR8LI/ref=sr_1_42?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1523432960&sr=1-42&keywords=teapot

Here's something I think you would really like!


And this tea pot looks really nice!


I would love this cute vaporeaon plush!!

This one works better based on my experience with both. https://www.amazon.com/Teaze-Tea-Infuser-Pot-Cup/dp/B0053YPXAA
My local tea shop starting using teaze instead because it pours more consistently.

Well That item looks mighty fine. I think you are going to buy the teamaker because it is summer, hot and you want some nice iced tea.

These ZENS guys are making some beautiful tea wares. I have this in my shopping list and gonna buy it on payday.

Still, your tea set rocks!

Seconded. My only additional comment is that it is important to remember that you should adjust your grind depending on the quantity that you're making.

For instance, if I'm only making a cup for myself in my v60, then I'll use a medium-fine grind. If I'm making a full pot, then I'll do a medium to medium-coarse. The reason, which may seem obvious, is that you still want similar extraction times. A coarser grind will allow you to hit that same extraction time on a larger batch.

link!

For a variable temp kettle I just got this and it works great. Same brand as top comment but it's variable temp (also comes bigger in a 1.7L)

For infusing: this is neat and not too pricey, not glass but allows you to see the leaves. You can also get one of those neat glass mugs that have the infuser in it that you just lift out, I've got one of them too but not a link.

I have a 02 hario v60 that I make 700ml coffee (using 02 600ml glass server (the server holds more than 600ml)) . I bet 03 would work for you with a 03 server. I looked the 03 server up on Amazon and the reviews says it can hold 900mL. Also there is nothing wrong using a larger server than what I suggest, you just need something for the coffee to drip into.

Here is the link:
03 800mL glass server

(Warning, this will be a very dense comment.)

there are 2 common approaches when it comes to enjoying tea, western style, and gong-fu style. (here is a link to some photos of my equipment http://imgur.com/a/8NPN3)

The western style approach involves using a teapot with a removable metal mesh strainer to brew tea. You need to simply place your desired amount of loose tea leaves into the strainer, place it in the teapot, add water of the desired temperature (usually 170 for green tea, 180-190 for oolongs, and a full boil for black tea), and let it steep for the appropriate amount of time, once it is done steeping, simply remove the strainer and leaves and enjoy your tea. You will usually be able to re-steep the leaves multiple times depending on the quality and type of tea your brewing. You will usually be able to obtain a decent teapot and cups for around $30 online (http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Cast-Iron-Black-Trivet/dp/B0002AAP5I/ref=sr_1_3?srs=9976066011&ie=UTF8&qid=1452434419&sr=8-3&keywords=tea).

Gong-fu brewing explained simply means brewing with more leaf, less time, and more times (usually with a smaller brewing vessel). this is usually the preferred method to brew teas if you want to make brewing tea an experience and more than just a casual drink. The easiest way to brew tea in the gong-fu style is to buy 3 things: a gaiwan (basically a lidded cup), a cha-hai (basically a small pitcher to decant the tea into), small cups (to drink from and let the tea cool faster), and an optional strainer (unless you do not mind small leaf particulate in your tea.) First, fill the gaiwan with the appropriate amount of leaf then add water of the appropriate temperature (usually 170F for green tea, 190F for oolong tea, and a full boil for black tea, but feel free to experiment). let it steep for a few seconds and pour the tea into the cha-hai using the gaiwans lid to hold back the leaves. Pour the tea into your cups and drink up. repeat the process until you have either had enough tea or the leaves lose too much flavor to steep again (some teas might go for as many as 20 steeps!!!). I know this might seem intimidating at first, but if you find that you really enjoy fine teas, you will really enjoy having a relaxing gong-fu session. a gong-fu set like this will usually run you around $30 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RTSHXSS/ref=s9_dcbhz_bw_g79_i2_sh)for something usable, but prices can vary, especially if you get into the premium side of things (http://yunnansourcing.com/en/jian-shui-teapots/3768-jian-shui-clay-classic-gaiwan-by-huang-shou-zhen-240ml.html).

Lastly, I will mention another method commonly known as "grandpa style"(http://imgur.com/4OMa3ud). this is as simple as it gets, just add tea leaves into a mug, add hot water, and drink using your teeth to strain the leaves as you drink adding more water as you go. (I only recommend grandpa style for more forgiving, less bitter teas as the less forgiving kind will tend to get unbearable bitter.)

By the way, it goes without saying that these methods will use full, loose leaf tea. Personally, I cannot recommend loose leaf tea enough. It is a significant improvement in taste over teabags, and is not much more expensive considering it can be re-steeped unlike teabags. I was only able to develop a passion for drinking and brewing tea after trying loose leaf tea and actually did not really like it back when I had only tried Lipton tea bags.

As for where to buy loose leaf teas and which ones to try, I will point you to 2 helpful articles that helped me out back when I was first getting into tea. along with the website that I use most.
http://www.yunnansourcing.us/store/
http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/02/best-tea-where-to-buy.html
http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/04/tea-introduction-starterkit.html

I would also recommend giving this article a read if you want to know more about tea http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/01/tea-for-everyone.html

I swear by ingenuiTEA (they also have a 64oz one). I've bought all the tea lovers in my life one. It's dishwasher-safe, the handle never gets hot to the touch, and you can steep as little or as much loose-leaf as you like. It's freaking magic to everyone who sees it for the first time, because it's gravity-fed and all the tea drains out through the bottom into the mug.

Make sure you buy at least one spare filter, though. I've accidentally thrown one away when throwing out the used tea leaves (look, I don't function well in the morning before I've had my first cuppa, okay???) and another time I accidentally popped one out in the sink and it fell down the garbage disposal, I didn't see it, turned on the disposal, and it made the most god-awful noise. Whoops.

\ They recommend the 64oz size good for "brewing a pitcher of iced tea". Well, screw that, I have a 72oz monster mug and you bet your ass I'm going to enjoy every last drop. Pitchers, hah.

That setup looks mighty fine to me except i would like the gaiwan and coups to be dark though, like yours... But that's alot of stuff for 99.

Aaaand the puer might be good starter puer together with one of crimson lotus teapots :> If only I had 1000 dollors to spend on tea...

I found this tea set on ebay, seems alright to me and I do like the color of it. I think I like the more earthy feeling from the darker colors then the white one you linked me. But all this is fairly new to me so maybe i shouldn't be focusing on the aesthetics this much and just get a decent gaiwan, like you said, and take it from there.

Yeah....? Teavana (owned by starbucks) sold small and larges of this thing.

First:

Dance bracelet

Maybe some bath products for relaxing/soaking her feet? Philosophy bubble bath, bath salts, arnica pain relief

Gift card for a pedi

​

Second:

Mug and some of her favorite teas

Tea mug

Mini tea packs

Book about tea

Tea infusing basket

China cup and saucer

​

Third:

Succulent garden

This planter and purchase a succulent for it

This planter

​

Boss:

GoT cutting board

GoT tumbler

Here's the hardware I ended up with for a simple continuous brew setup. For me, two gallons is a lot for a batch brew mostly just handling the vessel. Good luck! You're mostly limited by your imagination here.

Beverage dispenser Target is supposed to carry it also, but I never found one in the store.

Stainless spigot

Rubber bands

Heater

Temp controller outlet

Adhesive thermometer

I have one of these:

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-40515-42-Cup-Coffee/dp/B00008IH9R/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1396557056&sr=1-1&keywords=coffee+urn

The sides are very hot, so if you have children make sure it's out of their reach. Also, the top gets nice and warm so it's convenient if you want to warm up some challah for shabbos lunch ;)

Can someone point me in the right direction of a website that I can get affordable fresh loose leaf tea? I am an avid coffee drinker and I'm looking into tea when I want a hot drink to enjoy and relax with. I am a college student so budget is an issue. Also, what kind of gear should I start off with to brew my own loose leaf tea? I have a gooseneck kettle for coffee so boiling water is not an issue. I found this teapot on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZOLU1VI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A288LJKUH48CHC&psc=1), is it good quality?

I got the perfect pot for you. I received this pot for xmas 3 years ago. http://www.amazon.com/Primula-Flowering-Half-Moon-40-Ounce-Black/dp/B002T1TUHC/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1398434943&sr=8-14&keywords=glass+plastic+tea+pot

It's been my daily pot for forever now. It's not fancy but it covers your needs 1) you can see the tea. 2) wont break. My sister-in-law knitted me a cozy for it. Keeps the tea hot for hours. :) It also comes with free tea--bonus!

I have the same one as well and love it but I got mine off of amazon much cheaper than teavana.

I'm glad you posted this. I have tried cold brewing a few times and it never comes out as crystal-black as coffee shop cold brew. Mine always looks a little darker than tan. I don't know if I'm not using enough coffee grounds, or if the roast I'm using isn't dark enough, or if I'm not steeping it long enough. I think I'm filtering it well enough.

I use a Takeya that looks exactly like this but I leave out the filter insert and just put the grounds into the pitcher.

I have been trying to go cheap on the coffee until I get a result I'm happy with. I've used Starbucks French Roast, a Kirkland medium roast which was roasted by Starbucks, and a dark roast from an online coffee seller. I weighed 4oz of ground coffee and put it into the pitcher. Then I poured unfiltered water on top to fill the pitcher. Then I put the pitcher in the fridge for 16 hours. I inverted it probably 4 times in the steeping process in an attempt to mix the water through the grounds.

After 16 hours elapsed, I filtered first through a French press. Then I filtered it through a basket filter in a drip coffee maker. I did not run it through the coffee machine, I just poured the grounds/water directly into the filter and waited for it to run through.

Anyway, the result I'm getting just doesn't seem strong enough or black enough. So I'm wondering if I need a darker roast, or simply to use more grounds, or to steep it longer.

If you want a cheap teapot that will work well with any type of tea (as I did) I got this. For <$20 it gets the job done. As a bonus, if it breaks, you're not heartbroken.

http://www.amazon.com/Primula-40-Ounce-Teapot-Infuser-Flowering/dp/B002T1TUHC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1318022254&sr=8-2

I find this to be excellent for straining Kratom when making tea!

Milk oolong are lovely, a nice dark earthy oolong I love is Wu Yi Shui Xian Oolong (https://aromateashop.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=41_44&product_id=482), good for several steepings, and Supreme Golden Needle Black Tea (https://aromateashop.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=9_48&product_id=360), a very high quality black tea.

If I'm at work or don't want to think too hard about multiple steepings, I have KAMJOVE Glass Gongfu Teapot (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S602A18). It's a neat little thing that let's me time (ish) multiple steeps at work without worrying about mess, drips, etc.

I just got these 2 sets to get into tea, and they work great!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G1MZD4O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IA8R3RC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Amazon. Hiware Good Glass Teapot with... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZOLU1VI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I like it. It's stovetop safe, so I've used it to brew Chai in milk, but mostly I like being able to see the different colors of teas I drink.

Yeah, you can definitely do that. Just make sure your filter basket is nice and big, since there's a lot more leaves used.

However, a note - I tend to not do it that way, because of how many steeps you can get in gong fu style.
I don't like leaving leaves for multiple days, and I typically have about 3 standard mugs (30oz/900ml total) a day. Depending on the tea, I can get 6+ brews out of it, so instead of having 3 standard 300ml mugs, I use a gaiwan or a small portable tea brewer and have 6-7 smaller cups, using the same leaves all day.
If I want a full mug so I don't have to go brew anther cup while I'm working, I do two infusions of 150ml each, and pour them both into my mug.

I would consider adding a rechargeable DVD player, like thisone & have maybe one 'new' dvd for the kids as well as old favorites. Something they can watch together.

I'd tuck back a couple of books/games that are new too as a surprise.

Not a big fan of candles (I have cats - the candles are an accident waiting to happen). If you insist, please make sure you have a couple of fire extinguishers and the adults know where they are & how to use them. I have a variety of solar rechargeable lights in windowsills. One small one I leave in the bathroom all night when power goes out as a night light, then recharge the next day. That one is a cheapie. (I have a number of cheapie/give away ones).

This one is more expensive, not solar, but lasts 200 hours on one charge. It's great. Don't know how old your girls are, but maybe stash some glow sticks back.

Starting TODAY, adults need to follow the basic 'no gas tank goes below half a tank' rule.

Power banks, yes indeed. A couple of them minimum. If you or spouse will be going to work, you can take those with you to recharge at work. Or in the car.

Most everything else was covered by other replies. Water, of course. I'd add in some individual water flavorings & dry milk - it's borderline nasty, but works just fine on cereal for breakfast. Make sure you have food that can be prepared with what you have available. (Keeping in mind that opening the fridge/freezer should be kept to a minimum). Do you have charcoal/gas for the grill you planned on using? Frozen hot dogs grabbed from the freezer at the start will last a couple days in the cooler. Paper plates/cups are the name of the game here as well.

One last thought. Husband and I are both coffee in the morning people. We only run the generator in the evening for a few hours to keep the fridge/freezer charged (and plug in every rechargeable during that time), but we also make our coffee the night before. We have two good carafesthat we keep the coffee in until morning. Hot enough, and still tastes fresh.

edit: corrected link from CD player to DVD player

Teavana PerfecTea Tea Maker, 16 Ounce, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPQ5WG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QpW2BbHN1D1C1

reposting again - with link modified

The tea brewers that you press on top of your mug and the tea falls out the bottom. Teavana called them the "perfect tea maker". I've seen other variations, and I have no idea how well they work (I'm a basket infuser in mug type guy).

The other option is the hot water control. Stag EKG Kettle is pretty cool, with lots of fancy regulators to keep the water at the perfect temperature. (I hear the OXO Variable is cheaper and similar reviews, but it just doesn't look as nice.)

I picked up smaller type of that for easy Gong Fu brewing. Top brewing chamber is about 120ml. I really like it.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S602A18/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015RBIWO2?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01

There are some great auto drips that make great coffee easily, if you are willing to pay $100-$200 for the privilege. This one http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00472MMS0 is quite well regarded; and this one http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005YQZNO8 is seen as about as good as you can get below a $$$ Technivorm

I bought this one from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00X97W2P2/ref=pd_aw_lpo_79_tr_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=PJTG6N4SG98AE772EW9Y

It’s great quality. It washes well, pours well, and looks very pretty.

get an all stainless spigot - this is the one i use:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013FWX4HA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would guess it was a big coffee urn, like people rent for weddings. Something like this but just on a larger (and maybe home/custom manufactured) scale.

Are you looking for a portable infuser, or a bottle that can infuse? I recommend this : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071Y4H8KJ/

primarily because you can carry around the same set of leaves and brew gongfu anywhere as long as you have water. Note though, this is not sealed, it will leak minor amounts of water so make sure to use the case it comes with.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015RBIWO2/ref=s9_simh_gw_g60_i1_r?ie=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=1CGT2CFPRTJ1A274W6S1&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=2437869742&pf_rd_i=desktop

So I wasn't gonna contribute, considering almost all my gear has already been posted, but if you have a V60 and are making multiple cups, I highly suggest this, a Hario server:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000P4B4LU/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1373555238&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX112_SY192
I just got one last week, and it's awesome. I mean, it's no better at its job than any other container that a V60 sits on, but since hario makes it, it is a perfect fit, it comes with a lid, and it's nice to look at.

I had one of these but it was a bit too fragile for cleaning out daily in the office, so I got a cheap version at a local market for like $5 with a plastic handle and covering.

I have a gaiwan with the same design.

> https://amzn.com/B00X97W2P2

Teavana is ludicrously overpriced. Their heavy iron teapots are marked over a hundred bucks and you can find them on amazon in the 30-60 range Black, Red, Green.

Also if you want blooming tea you can find it on amazon for about $12.

Great snack that can replace cravings for smoothies, shakes, icees, slurpees. I avoid boba shops because they are inconsistent, cost too much, and don't display calorie content (or contain too many calories).

Buy thai tea mix and a tea pot. The tea only takes a few minutes to make but should sit in freezer or fridge for 30~ minutes to cool before adding ice and drinking. Other teas work too. Most teas are 0 calories. I freeze some tea into icecube tray so that I don't have to wait for tea to cool as long. You can also make a big batch of tea and save in fridge if you want.

Boba can be made by hand or boiled from hard (30-60 minutes) or boiled from soft (5 minutes). It is about 80 calories for 1/4 cup.

I use artificial sweeteners and artificial creamers to make the tea sweet and creamy without adding many calories. Make sure to soak the boba in hot sugar water to get them nice and sweet before adding them to your (less sweet) tea. I usually use nut pods or some sort of creamer that has some calories, adding 50-120 more calories to the boba, but you can stick to zero calorie creamers if you want. I hear Stevia is the healthiest zero calorie sweetener, by the way.

Because you want your tea to cool and your hard boba to boil it takes 30 minutes to make but you aren't in the kitchen the whole time. When I get a craving I will start the boba tea and during the 30 minutes I wait. Most of my food cravings pass easily during this time as I know I am about to drink boba. I find it to be very filling by the time I am able to drink it. I find that this is something of a strategy in itself... Having to wait 30 minutes for my snack helps the cravings pass and the snack feels more filling.

• Espro P3 - French Press $70
  
• Hario V60 Glass Coffee Dripper (Size 03, Black) $21
  
• Hario V60 Misarashi Coffee Paper Filter (Size 03, 100 Count, Natural) $8
  
• Hario V60 Misarashi Coffee Paper Filter (Size 02, 100 Count, White) $6
  
• Bialetti 6-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker $27
  
• Bialetti Replacement Gasket & Filter for 6 Cup Espresso Maker $6
  
• Bodum Milk Frother, Latteo Milk Frother $24
  
• Hario V60 Glass Range Server (800ml, Clear, Size 03) $23
  
  Total: $185
  

Put boiling water and kratom in the top of one of these https://www.amazon.com/Teaze-Tea-Infuser-Pot-Cup/dp/B0053YPXAA

Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Place the infuser on top of mug, add sweetener, done.

I love coffee and couldn't imagine not serving coffee! I want people wired and energized at my wedding lol. I bought one of these to serve coffee, and have asked my coordinator to refill when it's empty: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-40515-42-Cup-Coffee/dp/B00008IH9R/ref=lp_289745_1_14?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1465408096&sr=1-14

I'll probably purchase another one for tea.

Is that similar to this

From America's Test Kitchen Season 14: Oatmeal Muffins and Granola

NOTE: I originally posted a slightly less detailed review of these coffee makers in March or April 2013 but they have been re-tested so I am posting this more detailed review, the old post has been deleted. The youtube video review is not the same as the (updated) one on the ATK website, but the Winning and Best Buy models are the same. ~OP

• Youtube Video Review
  
  
• Very Detailed Testing Notes with updated video review
  **
  
  WINNER
  Rated as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
  
  Technivorm Moccamaster 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe - $229.00
  
  > Certified by the SCAA, the updated version of our old favorite (the KBT 741, now also $299) meets time and temperature guidelines with utter consistency. As a result, it produces a “smooth,” “velvety” brew. It’s also intuitive to use. The carafe lost some heat after 2 hours but still kept the coffee above 150 degrees.
  
  
• Amazon link
  
  **
  
  BEST BUY
  Rated as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
  
  Bonavita 8-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe - $149.00
  
  > Simple to use and SCAA-certified, this brewer spends most of the cycle in the ideal temperature range. Its coffee had “bright,” “full” flavor that was a bit more “acidic” than the Technivorm’s. The widemouthed carafe is easy to clean, but there’s no brew-through lid; you must remove the brew basket and screw on a separate lid to keep coffee hot.
  
  
• Amazon link
  
  **
  
  Rated as RECOMMENDED:
  
  Bunn HT Phase Brew 8-Cup Thermal Carafe Coffee Maker - $139.99
  
  > This SCAA-certified pot heats the water completely before releasing it over the grounds. That explained its impressive temperature accuracy, though the coffee was somewhat “acidic.” (Note: Early versions of this model shorted out when home voltage fluctuated; Bunn states that it has solved this problem, and our machine worked fine.)
  
  
• Amazon link
  
  **
  
  Five others were NOT RECOMMENDED:
  
  
• Capresso MT600 PLUS 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe
  
• Bodum Bistro b. over Coffee Machine
  
• Breville YouBrew Drip Coffee Maker with Built-In Grinder
  
• Cuisinart Perfec Temp 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker
  
  --
  
  
• Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew Thermal Coffeemaker, 10 Cup
  
  > By prescribing far less than the SCAA-recommended amount of grounds, this machine brewed “dishwater.” Adding the right amount of coffee for a full pot caused the grounds to overflow the filter and gunk up the brew basket. Other design flaws: The basket’s side drawer must be pulled out completely to fill—annoying if your counter is crowded—and its reservoir acquired a musty smell we couldn’t eradicate.
  

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dr-Who-Tardis-Tea-Pot/dp/B0083AR8LI/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2I041LAM33CUW&coliid=I1N7XD889I129L

This, well, I'd like to say saving up but with every spare pound or so I find spare I buy gifts for the redditgifts exchange >.<

But yes, this. Where I live I share a kitchen with others who tend to not fill the kettle up after they empty it, so a nice teapot would let me enjoy the tea in my room :D

And let's get Saving Private Ryan!

https://www.amazon.com/Primula-Half-Moon-Teapot-Flowering-Tea/dp/B002T1TUHC/ref=mp_s_a_1_26?keywords=glass%2Btea%2Bcups%2Band%2Btea%2Bpot&qid=1567294911&s=gateway&sr=8-26&th=1&psc=1 I fount the tea pot but idk where the cups are from

I have not. Sounds like a good idea though. Something like this maybe? (Edit: I looked a little deeper, and there seem to be multiple options, many at lower price. I think I'll get this one

[Stainless] (https://www.amazon.com/X-Chef-Stainless-Espresso-Shatterproof-Unbreakable/dp/B012FRA8UC) Steel Coffee Press. I used to break them all the time till I found this one. I love it.

Anchor Hocking Heritage Hill Glass Beverage Dispenser with Spigot, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWC0E42/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_siO5AbTBD97N9

I replaced the spigot with this guy:
Beverage Dispenser Replacement Spigot,Oak Leaf Stainless Steel Polished Finished, Dispenser Replacement Faucet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013FWX4HA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OjO5AbW7CJM7M

If you don't want to do BIAB get yourself a 5 gallon cooler, throw on a weldless bulkhead, and get a paint strainer bag as your filter. It'll maybe cost you 40-50 bucks max. Links below.

1/2"x10mm Stainless Steel Ball Valve Weldless Bulkhead for Home Brew Kettle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075M2KL5B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_y-73Ab9B9J8XY

Igloo 5 Gallon Seat Top Beverage Jug with spigot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FDXEN2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_bb83AbPCZY0XB

5 Gallon Elastic Opening Paint Strainer Bags 6 Pieces https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C2A9L0Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ib83Ab8YSXHGR

You can probably find a cheaper 5 gallon cooler at your local home improvement stores. They usually run 20-25 at my local Home Depot during the summer.

These and others like it should work.

i use the heat delay and heat the strike water and sparge water together. then before i mash i use the pump and take out the sparge water and put in a cooler ( https://www.amazon.com/Igloo-Gallon-Seat-Beverage-spigot/dp/B000FDXEN2/ref=sr_1_12?crid=1BNXXYIJMXUF3&keywords=igloo%2Bcooler&qid=1558019690&s=gateway&sprefix=igloo%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-12&th=1&psc=1 ) it keeps it hot. its not 167 degrees but its close and i figure its better than sparging with cold water.

Coffee urn looks right, didn't know that.

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-40515-42-Cup-Coffee/dp/B00008IH9R

https://www.amazon.com/Moyishi-Chinese-Porcelain-Gaiwan-Tradition/dp/B00X97W2P2/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1491185189&sr=8-3&keywords=gaiwan+porcelain

I'm trying to make a keg cooler for my 2.5 gallon keg. The keg has dimensions of 9.125in diam x 14.5in tall. This water cooler thing has dimensions of 14.5x13x19.5in. It seems like the keg is small enough but I'm not sure why there's two measurements for the keg and three for the cooler.

Currently I just use a picnic tap so I'm unfamiliar with shanks and stuff like that. Would this work if I just put the keg in the cooler, drilled a hole in the side wall and attached a shank and a faucet to the keg?

I also have a mini regulator like this that I plan on using for a CO2 source.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Adagio-Teas-IngenuiTEA-Teapot/dp/B000RJDX3K - 950 ml is definetly more than 2 cups.

The kettle is the biggest thing - hot water dispensers will never be the right temperature. I use a basic one and a thermometer.
I have a really cheap tea pot for western style brewing (just some glass one I picked up somewhere) and one of these https://www.amazon.com/KAMJOVE-Gongfu-Teapot-filter-heat-resistant/dp/B00S602A18/ref=lp_8538722011_1_1?srs=8538722011&ie=UTF8&qid=1480970053&sr=8-1 for gongfu style (which is actually most of my tea drinking since I discovered it).

I'd avoid teabags and infusers (they don't give the leaves enough room) unless you can't avoid it.

I've had significantly better luck with black tea based teas, but I've also done a peppermint tisane and it turned out well. I usually use my takeya, or I just got a Teavana Tristan to give the leaves more room to expand.

About half the time I use teabags to make my cold brew tea; and the last time I used a loose leaf black, I didn't notice as much unfurling of the leaves as I expected.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012FRA8UC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

Bought this 2 weeks ago. Stays hot for a while. Caveat, since it does stay hot, I recommend pouring into another device or it will over saturate your beans.

After brewing, I move mine to this:

http://www.amazon.com/Hydro-Flask-Insulated-Stainless-32-Ounce/dp/B00K5ZRSP0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452885259&sr=8-1&keywords=hydro+flask

and I just bring this to work, stays hot for 2-3 hours easy

No offense but that's nasty, IMHO. Heated plastic leaching for the last 20 years cannot taste good or be healthy. Do yourself a favor and invest into something worthy to use for the rest of your life. A good French press or stovetop espresso maker is so worth it. Much better tasting, way nicer and artisan. I've been using this for the last 10 years Bialetti
If I were to buy a press, this would be it:French press
And if I were to buy anew stovetop: Vev Vigano

edit: learning to link

For daily simple use, I've always enjoyed using the ingenuitea:

http://www.amazon.com/Adagio-Teas-32-Ounce-Ingenuitea-Teapot/dp/B000RJDX3K/ref=pd_sim_k_1

Though the filter is plastic, I've no no problems with it to date (8 months), and the pour is fantastic!

A great intro to pour-over coffee is this Melitta which, imho, makes fabulous coffee especially for the money. Just snag some #6 coffee filters and you're good to go.

I do think that a goose neck kettle makes a big difference in your ability to pour slowly and methodically but if you have a regular kettle already you can start with that.

To keep things warm you can pick up a nice vacuum carafe and you can enjoy hot coffee for about 10 hours. The linked one is nice because if you make a full pot, then pour off two cups for you and the misses, it should hold the rest.

I have a similar story, in that I got hooked on disposable water bottles and tried to replicate the experience without the waste.

In the end, I went with Aquasana 18oz glass water bottles. They seal great with a rubber gasket in the lid, and they're very sturdy. If you care, you can get silicone sleeves for them too, or the borosilicate glass bottles they make, but I haven't tried either of those products myself so I can't comment on them; I've only used the basic bottles.

For me, I found that the key wasn't just portable, screw-top bottles, but LOTS of bottles that are COLD. So, I needed a solution that involved multiple bottles, with a few always in the fridge getting cold. At this point, I have 12+ bottles: 2 in the fridge, and more filled bottles near the fridge. I replace the cold ones whenever I take one out. Every night I wash the used bottles from the day in the dishwasher, and the next morning I fill the empty clean bottles back up. This system ensures that I always have cold bottles of water, and I don't have to bother refilling them when I want some water in a hurry. And, my wife and I drink water fast enough that I don't worry about the time the water sits out of the fridge.

As of this posting, they're on sale for about half-off on Amazon; I took advantage of that and bought 12 more, just in case someday they break and I need replacements. I've only had one break over the last 3 years, though (I was not being careful over a concrete floor).