We're in the middle of a hot summer. Some people like the heat and laying out on the beach. Others, not so much, doing everything they can to stay in an air conditioned building. But there is one thing that these people have in common (if they're sane): They LOVE iced coffee!

Whether you prefer the hot sun or a manufactured indoor "breeze" during the summer months, iced coffee is a must. But iced coffee is not only appropriate for hot summer days. It is perfect for any time of the year and any occasion. A friend of mine likes to remind me, "Iced coffee is a lifestyle." And he's not wrong.

I must admit, I have fully embraced this lifestyle and developed an iced coffee addiction. But it's not all bad, right? There are pros and cons to an iced coffee addiction. For example:

Pro: Caffeine rarely affects me.

I'm so used coffee running through my bloodstream that the caffeine rarely keeps me up at night. I can make those late night Dunkin' runs without worrying about my beauty sleep.

Con: Caffeine rarely affects me.

Yes, this is a pro and a con. When you're a college student, caffeine is a necessity. Jesus and caffeine. Vital to the existence of a college student. When caffeine doesn't keep you up for that paper, you know you need the venti. (But is that really a bad thing?)

Pro: It could always be worse.

Okay, I know this is a weak pro, but it's true. I'm sure my parents would rather have me addicted to coffee instead of cocaine, right?

Con: I'm breaking the bank.

A coffee addiction may not be as expensive as a hard drug addiction, but it still takes a good chunk out of my paycheck. And I work at a coffee shop! Oh, the irony! The man that signs my check gets the money right back. (You're welcome, sir.)

Pro: "I can stop any time."

I say this all the time. It's a lie. I don't believe myself. Honestly, I've tried to stop. I obviously didn't try hard enough. How is this a pro? I don't know. Maybe because quitting this addiction has fewer consequences. Withdrawal includes headaches and cravings. That isn't too bad, right?

Con: Withdrawal actually sucks.

So the pro wasn't really a pro. I'm weak. I need the coffee. The headaches aren't worth the freedom.

My fellow addicts, I salute you. We have chosen the iced coffee lifestyle and we're not going back any time soon. We have weighed the pros and cons. We have made our choice. To outsiders, we may look insane with our 24 oz. iced coffees and giddy expressions on our faces. The non-coffee drinkers will never experience the joy that is ours. Don't let the haters bring you down. Sip on.