A few days ago I went on a mission to find a great coffee shop. I came across Agia Sophia, a charming bookstore and coffee shop in the heart of Old Colorado City. As I walked in, I was struck by the building's enchanting features, including high ceilings and gorgeous architecture. I asked the woman behind the counter if the owner was around. Before I knew it, my mom, a friend, and I were sitting at a table with Don Ratzlaff, one of the owners.

A professional photographer, Ratzlaff had been living and working in central Kansas for30 years before making the decision to move his studio to Colorado. Looking for a distinctive location for his business, Don, his wife Marilyn, daughter Kristin and son-in-law Matt Kennedy purchased a historical building being used by a real estate brokerage.They soon established their photography business--Legacy Image Design--and also created a bookstore and coffee shop. Now both dwell in the special building at 2902 West Colorado Avenue in Old Colorado City.

The company's website ( www.agiasophiacoffeeshop.com) says, "The very first coffeehouses in the western world were aromatic dens where people met to discuss business, politics and religion. Here at Agia Sophia we want to inspire that same historical coffeehouse culture by offering the very best coffee & specialty teas, along with pastries, desserts and a café-style lunch menu to satisfy your physical hunger, while our excellent book selection nourishes your spiritual and intellectual appetite."

If you go there, make sure to pick up a cup of their famous coffee. The coffee is abundant with flavor since a local fireman, Eric Umenhofer, personally air roasts the beans. He calls his company Ümpire Estate Coffee. The coffee he brews is tremendous. Agia Sophia was even given the first place award for best coffee and best atmosphere by The Gazette.

While you are drinking your warm cup of coffee, look around to see the quality of the photography of Legacy Image Design. Beautiful portraits adorn the walls. Don explains that, as professional photographers, he, Kristin, and Matt put effort into capturing the real person inside.They work hard to turn each portrait into a very personal and unique statement.

Don says the goal for Agia Sophia in the upcoming years is "to continue creating a quiet place where people can reflect on the important things in life and cultivate relationships with other people."

So if you get a chance, stop by for a drink and a sandwich, and don't forget to enjoy the portraits as well. The food's so good it won't last long on your plate, but the memories evoked by Legacy's beautiful photography will last forever.