[mousepod]

We use a Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal. Requires cleaning every morning but makes a mean cup of coffee. 2 of the big pluses for the machine: the beans are ground just before the water hits 'em; the coffee drips right into a thermos, so no heating element (a la Mr Coffee) to keep cooking the coffee.

When I want an extra strong cup (or I don't feel like making 4+ cups), I also use a french press.

As far as beans go, Heather and I tend to go for whatever fair trade stuff looks good at our local Mollie Stone's - so we change from week to week.