argh!
So I finally "finished" this... after hours of trying to create vapour that would look good and trying to find that last flaw I can't seem to put my finger on... So I decided to show it to you guys and see what you think - what could be improved? (besides giving the cup more shades I suppose)

I tried some new techniques (again): the background was inspired by `nighty's backgrounds (which are always so wonderfully calm and yet interesting, I hope this one's at least close to any of that) and the vector was done using a tutorial found here [link] - I'll probably try my hand on more of this stuff soon, it's fun.

It was supposed to represent my love for coffee... dunno if it works though. I'll let you decide.

_{All the stock is from my own stash: my favourite coffee, my cup and my textures}

EDIT: fixed the shadow of the cup and those of the beans (though I doubt you can see it here)
Thanks for all your input

EDIT August 2008: Added a remake of this deviation here: Coffee Time Revisited which is going to be part of the "Texture This" calendar