Season of Change

Training under Jill and cupping every day, I can recognize that my palate is developing and maturing. Of course it still has a lo-o-ong way to go, but part of the thrill is that there isn't really an end point to learning. And lately I've been more and more appreciative of these heightened senses, not just when it comes to coffee, but in the ways it helps me to experience the world. Last night when that heavy rain rolled through around 10:30, the smell of that water on the pavement still hot from the afternoon sent me spiraling into nostalgia. It's all right around the corner, warm spring evenings, street tables filled with happy bikers and pedestrians throwing back cold beers and good coffee, the slow down and deep breath of our collective heart. It seems every year when spring arrives, I give it the same acceptance speech. You were worth waiting for.
The cafe has been under new management for about 6 months now, and things up front are looking better than ever. Our manager, Mike, came in on a mission to unite our team and get us all on board for change. A simple goal in theory, but a task that not just anyone could achieve. It can be a jarring experience when someone new comes in with the blatant intent of steering your ship into unknown waters. But his positive attitude became contagious, and it's apparent now more than ever how much, everything depends on attitude. The more I talk to him, and come to understand his philosophy, the more I appreciate every little thing that he does. From starting every staff note with "Hey Team," to his devout willingness to listen to our concerns and take action.
And now with the warm weather, we are finally able to roll out some of our big changes. Starting today we have a fridge full of chilled pint glasses and cold bottled beers, a solid diverse selection to get us on our feet. We have red and white wine and are hoping to secure some more outdoor seating. We have some new employees up front, a very welcome addition to our team, and moral seems to be high all around. Do yourself a favor in the next couple weeks and stop into our shop on NW Glisan & 18th. Introduce yourself to our new and old staff. Sit down and enjoy a drink. Warm weather is knocking at the door. For a moment or two we might scramble about before we let it in, but we greet it the way we always have, and say to Spring, to change, and to our new manager Mike, you were worth waiting for.

Happy sipping,
- Karen