THIS IS MY PARTICIPATION IN THE MINI CONTEST.

Living in Caracas means enjoying a blessed climate most of the time. You don’t need constant air conditioning or a daily scarf. But just step into the midday traffic or walk around downtown, and it suddenly feels like you’re one step away from hell. In those moments, a cold drink is pure heaven. Whether it’s a beer, a fizzy Coca-Cola, or a fresh juice made of orange, carrot, and beet, I’m deeply grateful for it. But, and this is important,t no ice. Ice, to me, ruins the whole experience: it weakens the flavor and steals its soul. I’d rather have the bottle properly chilled, left in the fridge for as long as needed—but please, no ice. Even my beloved lemon tea—I like it cold, but pure. No cubes dissolving the magic. In my glass, I don’t want anything floating. Cold? Yes. With ice? No, thank you.

I appreciate the invitation extended to me by my dear friends @mercmarg and @yenmendt.

Now, it's my turn to invite some great friends to join the conversation: @elamaria, @emily2021, @maylink, @roswelborges, and the only bubbly soap master @felixmarranz.