Tall Tales from Kansas

melty marshmallows are quite challenging to hold on to

This is a sweet potato latte from 1900 Barker on Mass in Lawrence. It has been available since September 1st as part of their seasonal menu. I consider it a matter of incredible restraint that this is the first one I have sampled. If it has been eons since you have let yourself go and truly enjoyed the melty, messy, deliciousness of a toasted home-made marshmallow floating in cup of creamy espresso with a hint of sweet potato that is not overpowered by fall spices - do get yourself here and have one. And yes, I did grab a wooden stir stick to stab that marshmallow with to help get it up to my mouth without having it slip through my fingers. Melty marshmallows are quite challenging to hold on to.

This may be my last arrangement of the season. I am savoring it. 

A long Friday morning walk - this was before the melty marshmallow extravaganza. 

My latest YA read. 

I have just this moment finished season 1 of Hotel Portofino. I like how it concluded with optimism for the future even though we know there are troubles ahead. The beautiful scenery on location in Croatia where this is filmed is breathtaking, as well as the costumes and sets. It has definitely held my interest. 

I can keep going with the reasons it was necessary but I will stop there

In between working, weed pulling, and generally wasting time in the best ways possible, there was a trip to Zeb's in Eudora, where the windows are covered with fabulous drawings, and the Rosemary Rise latte is available for a limited time. It's so unusually delicious that I will be going back asap for a repeat. 

Ignore that cherry turnover on the side. I don't know how it got there. The sprig of rosemary on top provided one of the most indulgent, sensory-inclusive, sipping experiences ever. 

My little redbud tree is having a so-so bloom this year. They can't all be spectacular. However, this specimen in front of the post office downtown is something else ... it must be in a micro-climate that got spared from a late frost or something. There are always spots of beauty to be found, even in a "so-so" year.

The light coming through the upstairs window, illuminating my first mini flower arrangement of the year, making the vinca vine and ground cover look like a million bucks is another one of those unexpected bits of loveliness.  

I got hooked by a picture from Smitten Kitchen of a New York Crumb cake... and did some baking today. Hats off to Deb Perelman for another recipe that is perfectly perfect.  I followed it to the letter. Tender, soft, melt in your mouth. Because really, we all deserve cake for breakfast at least once in a while. Especially when you are in your 60's. I can keep going with the reasons it was necessary but I will stop there. 

I took a picture this afternoon of the one tulip that came up in the front garden. Maybe this will be the year I actually get off my duff and plant some new bulbs. 

In the meantime, I sure do enjoy looking at this one. 

Helpful links: New York Crumb Cake

sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile

Let's talk daffodils today shall we? I have been waiting and waiting and waiting some more for the arrival of bunches of them in the grocery store for the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days. Finally, on Saturday morning, I found some!

I rushed them home, trimmed the ends, put them in vases, and placed them where I could enjoy them the most. 

Early this morning, more were open. So beautiful. 

Spring things are happening a little later here this year, but they are happening. I have a wonderful crop of buds on my redbud tree right now.

These will open into the most beautiful flowers very soon.  While I miss the 2 small cherry trees that formerly lived in this spot, I have been delighted so far with this redbud tree. 

This morning I made a solo venture to one of my favorite coffee shops. A signpost of recovery. It was wonderful to sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile, be happy to be here. 

Right as I got out of my car I spotted these slightly different variety of daffodils.

So beautiful against that lovely distressed brick background. 

And just like that the weekend is almost over. Tomorrow I am back to work again, feeling revitalized and ready. Lunches packed, uniform at the ready. The trend that started on post op day #30 is continuing. Thank every single one of you for your well wishes.

 

yada yada yada

Today, totally ensnared by an instagram post showing an eggnog flat white, I headed to Decade coffee shop. I selected the community table because of the very lovely Christmas tree sitting in the middle of it. A perfect accompaniment to the sipping and photographing of my beverage. 

Most of you know I am an eggnog fan and a coffee fan. So this drink seemed made for me. I love Decade coffee shop, it's understated, has great tables and chairs, plays good tunes, and gets a thumbs up for it's great all around vibe.  Oh, and most importantly - really good coffee. This drink met all my expectations. Smooth, creamy, spicy, sweet but not too sweet, a perfect treat at 8:30 on a Wednesday morning. In December. 

I totally planned to come home after this reinforcing start to my day and embark upon the creation of an improv tree pillow of some sort. Instead, I got sucked into taking all the fall items off my inspiration board and pinning up all this stuff instead. 

I do love this board, looking at it, thinking about what's on it, picking stuff to add to it, making stuff based on ideas I get from the content displayed. Yada, yada, yada. 

the end

helpful links: Decade Coffee - Lawrence Kansas in case you want to make a field trip. I think the eggnog flat white is on the menu through the month of December. 

 

the mind that imagined this and pulled it off

In addition to spending hours staring out at Beaver Lake from our Airbnb in Garfield, we also did some exploring. Here are two local spots you MUST NOT MISS if you are in the area. The good thing is they are close to each other. 

Whether your jam is dying, knitting, stitching, weaving, quilting, or just looking at beautiful things... get thee to hillfolk. The space is wonderfully open with lots of space for wandering from one lovely thing to another. 

The woman who helped us was friendly, helpful, nice... 

Inspiration was abundant. That topographic quilt of the area was museum quality. I love the mind that imagined this and pulled it off. 

After you settle on your purchases, take a drive a few blocks over to Airship Coffee and enjoy a "lumberjack" latte. It was the smoked salt in the description that hooked me and it did not disappoint. Lots of outdoor seating in addition to inside space - good tunes, good java. Alone or with a group, this place is perfect for whatever it is you need in a coffee shop.

Did I mention the mugs were ergonomically pleasing? 

Helpful links:

hillfolk shop

Airship coffee at 5th street

 

coffee, wandering, laughing - more from Alba Quirky

On the way to the East Fork of the Jemez river, Dottie and I pulled off the road in Jemez Springs, for coffee.  You won't be sorry if you stop at the Highway 4 Cafe & Bakery, get a 12 oz latte, and then wander around a bit to see what you can see.  You will have exactly enough time to finish this drink before you get to the trailhead. 

Another coffee place I feel warrants a visit is in the vicinity of downtown Albuquerque - Humble coffee. You can get a blue-corn blueberry doughnut to go with your drink if you want. Cool signs, good seating, not busy on a weekend morning! 

Afterwards you can stroll around and soak up the atmosphere.

The day I got to Albuquerque, Dottie took me up to the Sandia Crest Trail for a quick hike and a lovely vista of the city. A great way to start the trip. The temps were cool up at 10,000 feet, and when you have come from the humidity of Kansas, that feels simply wonderful.

We laughed like a couple of hyena's when we finally reached this trailhead... I had asked Dottie "how long until we get there" several times along the way and she assured me it was "just around the corner", when in fact she was not sure about that at all, but she saved that bit of info until after we arrived. If you have a sister, you can understand these kinds of uncontrollable fits of laughter.

every little thing, every big thing, and everything in between

Remember the "old days", when we took for granted the ability to go somewhere and have a coffee with a friend? 

This week Joan and I met up and checked out a new (for me) spot in Kansas City.  Splitlog Coffee on Olive, in the Pendleton Heights neighborhood, was absolutely fantastic. 

Great neighborhood spot with indoor and outdoor seating. One empty table between each table with chairs = lots of space inside and good distancing. Masks required inside and anytime you get up from your table. A clean, minimalist style, and good tunes also got high marks. 

A very friendly barista is always appreciated... especially if he is nice AND makes a superior latte.

They offer food at this location too. Those pretty pink frosted cake doughnuts were screaming at me from inside the case, but I left them for the 2 girls who might be coming in later in the morning. We settled instead for a couple of Fireside Latte's - rich espresso with a touch of housemade cherry syrup in perfectly steamed milk with a nice foam top. 

Mary Joan and I talked about every little thing, every big thing, and everything in between the little and the big. I look forward to the time when we can look back on this pandemic instead of being squeezed in the middle of it. In the meantime, with the numbers rising I recognize the need to look for more ways to "lighten the load". But for today, I lived completely in the moment, carefully enjoying every second with a dear friend.

Helpful links: Splitlog Coffee

she rode the trolley to work

You will recall my mention of the sweet potato latte a few posts back. Along with my vow to get there soon, and describe the visit. I worried that perhaps I had blown it up into something that could never taste as good as it did in my mind. 

I was wrong, wrong, wrong. It was better than my imaginings - smooth, creamy, perfectly blended, with hints of sweet potato but not cinnamon. In no way like pumpkin. That big home-made marshmallow that you see on top, slowly melting into a sea of sweet potato, espresso, and milk, that has been kissed with a hint of nutmeg and torched to give that tiny hint of smoke... oh. I left it in the cup until the latte was exactly 1/4 gone then I reached in with my fingers and scooped it into my mouth. Unapologetically, I warmed Joan to look away it was not going to be pretty. But it was wonderful.

When you go, which you must if you are in the area, enjoy the view of the landmark Western Auto sign with the turning tree in the foreground. At the Monarch location on Grand there is indoor seating - well spaced and it's not crowded, but instead go across the street to that little park and marvel at the wonder of Kansas City.  

When you are done there, zip over to the Nelson/Atkins and stroll through the sculpture garden. 

It is a treasure. Above and below is a bronze work by Judith Shea - Storage.

I told Joan she might get stuck in that sculpture, but she had tomfoolery on her mind and there was no stopping her. Interacting with art is hard to resist.

At the very top of the museum walls on the outside there is this quote by Victor Hugo.  I am not sure why I have not noticed it before. "The human soul has still greater need of the ideal than of the real.  It is by the real that we exist, it is by the ideal that we live." It speaks to the need for art in the world. 

Above is Peace on Earth by Jacques Lipchitz.

The paths for walking among the sculptures is shaded in many parts and there are benches for sitting. And reading. 

The Large Bather, by Pierre-Auguste Renoir is spectacular. Strong, capable, perfect. The meandering Walking Wall is made of stone from the flint hills and is the work of Andy Goldsworthy. No mortar was used in it's creation. 

Finally, we closed our morning with an outdoor lunch. Where we discussed when it might be safe to fly and the medical management of the Donald's COVID 19.

But the most interesting topic of conversation was that Marti Huff, in 1943, at the age of 19, worked on the 12th floor of the Western Auto building as the executive secretary to the Vice-President. She rode the trolley to work and her favorite coat may have had squirrel trim on the bottom. 

Thank you to the Huff girls, for making me an adopted sister. How else would I get to hear such stories?

"church" at my favorite coffee spot downtown

Happy Sunday, from Kansas, where I just got done planting a Rising Sun Redbud tree. 

I had someone else plant the last 2 weeping cherries that have both ended up dying in that spot, and decided maybe I should just take matters into my own (capable) hands.  

When that was done, and after Marco Polo'ing my sisters, and sending Mary Joan a text about my accomplishment, because listen... one must announce one's personal moments of excellence to those who understand these things... I sat in the chair above and read the Sunday Review section of the NYT, where I discovered this article. This line in particular "...If in doubt, snuff me out" made me want to jump over to Mary Pipher's house (the author) and give her a double high five. I would give my eye teeth to have come up with that line. We have all got to learn to talk about the fact that we are dying. Well written pieces like this help normalize death as a part of life. A part that we are all heading towards. I like hearing others beliefs about what happens after we die. Some offer hope, others seem more hogwash than anything else... and yet, to each her/his own. 

Earlier in the day, I bolted out of bed so I could fill my favorite hours of the day with double the activity since we "sprang forward an hour" here in the US. My reward was a lovely sunrise followed by "church" at my favorite coffee spot downtown.

It never gets old. Time to think about the best/worst/most/least memorable moments of the past week feels like a worthy use of part of the day. Plus, I'll always choose a latte over communion wine , AND today there was a German Sheppard puppy at mass. I am pretty sure God laid on the floor and kicked her feet up with delight over that. 

making new memories to pile on top of all the old ones

Scenes from a day well spent.

If you haven't been to Monarch Coffee in midtown Kansas City, you might want to scurry over there. Nancy told me they were voted best coffee in Missouri by Food and Wine magazine so you know I had to try it. 

I broke from my usual routine and got the "malted milk latte". After the delightful fellow below described it to me as tasting like you "bit into a whopper", how could I not? He also brought us our own bottle of water and glasses. Which we hadn't even requested. Unheard of, and yet such a nice touch.  

Joan and I laughed, talked a mile a minute, filled up our eyes with all things SPRING at J'Adore and then stopped at Heirloom Bakery for lunch.

Not just any lunch. The "Melt" consisted of a sandwich on pressed whole wheat granola bread, with sour cherry bacon jam, white cheddar, thin slices of Granny Smith apple, shallots, toasted walnuts, garlic tarragon goat cheese spread, and spinach.  All toasted up, nice and melty like. If you are still standing you should call and see when they are featuring it again. It was that good. 

This photo in no way does justice to the sandwich, but what it does do is show you they know what they are doing when they toast their bread. Crispy, buttery, smoky, tart, creamy and it all went well with a kale salad.  

Flowers on the table never hurt either. Nor do pretty paper straws.

Oh it had been a while since Joan and I hung out together. Too long. Consider this your reminder to call up your old pals and go spend some time together making new memories to pile on top of all the old ones. 

this latte Isaiah made for me

Some favorite things from November that I haven't told you about yet.  Or it could be that I told you but didn't show a photo.  And quite possibly, I told you and showed you a photo but want to tell you again.  For emphasis.

This pumpkin.  And while I am at it, if you want to save stems from pumpkins to make your own, its a heck of a lot easier to let the pumpkins freeze and the stems pop right off.  I can't tell you how long I toiled over stem removal the year Mary Joan and I made these. 

This walk.

This latte Isaiah made for me, at McClain's in Lawrence.

Stitching on this needlepoint project.

Topping off steel cut oats with leftover cranberries from Thanksgiving dinner.  Perfect.

This fabulous artwork by a young artist (whose name I didn't see) that was hanging up in the Lawrence Art Center this week.

This amazing sunset.  

This window on Massachusetts street in downtown Lawrence.

The end.  

Bernadette and Bill at the Hi-Hat

Today, after work, when I stopped at Hi-Hat Coffee, I expected to get a great iced coffee.  Which I did.  Actually I ended up getting the iced honey lavender latte (on the recommendation of a very nice man ahead of me in line) and it was divine.  Not too sweet.  Cold.  Perfect.  

What I did not expect was to meet Bernadette.  She told us about the contest up the street where you could guess the number of chocolate pieces in a big jar and if you are correct, you win the whole thing.  She was 100% delightful.  Just the kind of person you want to meet after a long day at work.  

If that wasn't already enough, when we walked outside the best table in place was waiting for us.  In the shade.  

But WAIT!  It gets better.  When we were headed to our cars I spotted someone else who caught my eye and we started to chat.  Turns out he was Bill Guilfoil and if you click on his name you can learn all about him.  When we shook hands as we were leaving he stood up, looked me straight in the eye, and smiled.  Oh I do love a gentleman.  

I have decided there must be some kind of magical vortex under Hi-Hat Coffee.  My friend and I agreed that weekly sessions will be needed.    

None of this, by the way, is a Tall Tale. All 100% ordinary wonderfulness, on a Thursday in Kansas City.    

"...a mysterious figure capable of conducting transfiguration through needle and thread"

On a recent ordinary day, I discovered something extra-ordinary.  The work of Ann Luben: The Singular Spectralogical Seamstress of the West, hanging up in Decade coffee shop in Lawrence.   

From her statement presented with the work,  "...drawing from the fantastical sources of visual and narrative culture within country music and Western Americana, my work proposes a magical realist relationship between the embellished garment and the inflated identity.  Sewn charms of the Sooth Stitcher offer improbable cures to the demands of rugged isolationism through physically transformative sympathetic magic.  Artifacts of this metaphysical sewing service, including hailed hyperbolic advertisements and embroidered garment fragments, suggest a mysterious figure capable of conducting transfiguration through needle and thread."

Her stuff totally blew me away.   

It gives credence to that idea that you see the MOST interesting, informative, inspirational things when you aren't looking for them.  

I love her work, but even more the whole concept of it.  

Might I recommend the cortado for sipping on while you let your eyes roam over the exhibit?  They have excellent tables and chairs.  Bring something to write or draw with, and in.  

Helpful links:

Anne Luben 

Decade Coffee Shop

P.S.  I do not know how long the exhibit will be up. Dally at your own risk.  

a resident cat to pet

Last week on a quick pilgrimage to the Kauffman Gardens I was treated to a feast of flowers.  Including allium, iris, a stray rose or two, peonies ready to bloom, and dogwoods dropping their petals. 

There was also the resident cat to pet and lots of spots to sit; for soaking in the quiet splendor.  Afterwards, there was a trip to a favorite coffee spot. 

I do love a good field trip. 

the perfect environment for thinking

The Sunrise Project has moved in to the former Sunrise Garden Center on 15th street in Lawrence.   Its a gathering place. 

A spot to meet, talk, dream, create, and grow.   You could also read if the spirit moved you.  Even if you didn't bring anything with you, there were books on the shelves.  And games.  Interesting conversations swirled around me.  

It was the perfect environment for thinking, writing out cards, and staring off into space. 

All while enjoying my first latte made with coconut milk.  Because its important to explore new taste sensations.   And the really friendly barista asked me if I wanted to try it.  

midwestern modesty

In keeping with my premise that it is vitally important to know a great coffee spot in each and every section on the map, I present to you Second Best Coffee - 328 West 85th Street in Kansas City.  There are 4 essential things you need to know about this java spot. 

#1  They have a barista who is a perfectionist - he remade my coffee because he wasn't satisfied with how it looked the first time. 

#2  An exceptionally fine preparation of my Gibraltar.  Smooth and dark without being bitter. 

#3  A small pastry case containing baked goods.  Not too little and not too big, just the right size - so as not to overwhelm with too many choices.   And in that case ... was this sour cherry pop tart from Heirloom Bakery.

#4  I love that the name describes their philosophy about coffee, and it was clearly on display during the preparation of my drink.  "Second Best is not about self-deprecation, but a way for us to acknowledge and pledge that tomorrow's coffee will clearly make today's Second Best".

This was truly an enjoyable coffee experience.   I feel that the sour cherry pop tart accompanied by the Gibraltar is likely the very best combination to be had there.  However, I do not want to be hasty in my judgement.   Therefore, I am making it my mission to return and consider other pastry selections to accompany the Gibraltar.  Stay tuned.     

with a spoon on the side

How I missed the newsflash about a new coffee spot in Lawrence is beyond me.  In 125 words or less I am going to make up for lost time.  Introducing DECADE coffee.  Where they make a rich, warm, earthy, smooth, delicious cortado that is served in a cup made by a local potter (Mike Crouch) with a spoon on the side (that you may not need but I appreciate what it adds to the presentation) where you can sit at a big table, and listen to the tick tock of the old fashioned clock, and enjoy all the light and faint aroma of fresh cut wood. 

Take a book to doodle in.  They don't have Wifi.  You won't miss it. 

P.S.  Location:  920 Delaware, Lawrence Kansas

the gibraltar

A working knowledge of the location of the best coffee hang outs in my geographical area is something I consider my duty to possess.  So whenever I hear about a spot that I haven't been to, I make it my business to get there.  What follows is a thorough report on two places that have recently been brought to my attention.   

I began my study at Crows Coffee, where I discovered the Gibraltar and a group of extremely nice baristas.  

It turns out the Gibraltar is a rich smooth combination of equal parts espresso and steamed milk.  I would consider it equivalent to the Cortado or the Flat White.  

When I arrived and ordered our drinks the barista on the left told me he would make mine but hold on the other one until my friend arrived because the microfoam is best when you drink it right after it's made.  Say what?  Someone who wants to make sure my coffee experience is the best it can be?   I'll be back here for sure.  With a sketchbook. 

 Next stop:  Quay Coffee, in the river market area. 

As soon as I saw they also had a Gibraltar on the menu, my selection was made.  I wanted to do a head to head comparison with the one I had earlier.  I was extremely tempted to get the v60 pour over when I watched the care this fellow took as he made them.  But there will be another visit for that. 

I did not get a decent photo of my drink, but you get the idea (the Gibraltar was apparently named for the glass it is served in).   It was also well prepared here.  Rich and strong but still smooth and creamy.   A perfect coffee drink. 

Crows Coffee and Quay Coffee get high marks from me.   They each had a good  atmosphere and the people who were working were friendly.  BUT the best thing about both places is the reason you go to a coffee shop is to get GREAT coffee.   The coffee was excellent and my Gibraltars were skillfully prepared. 

I queried him on the difference and he replied thusly

I have been bitten by the flat white bug.  I had my first one 9 days ago.  I couldn't get it out of my mind.  Right then and there I decided my "one and done" for February would be a serious exploration of the flat white. 

After tasting my first one, I began roll over in my mind how it was unlike a latte and distinct from the cappuccino.  I decided to consult an expert.  In this case, my nephew James.  I queried him on the difference and he replied thusly:  "Cappuccino is a steamed milk process that is closely related to a latte.  Steamed milk is spooned or layered onto a shot or two of espresso.  A flat white uses a different roast of bean, two pulled shots with a froth and steamed milk base.  The resulting milk is more velvety and smooth than a typical steam only solution.  The milk is then slowly poured directly in the middle of the pulled shots.  It's a completely different roast and build process".

Can you read that and not want to go and get one yourself?  In the last 9 days since I had my first one I have consumed 3 more.  In my defense,  I needed to be sure I really liked them before doing a post on the topic.  AND I decided it was important to sample the flat white at more than one coffee shop. 

This is the short flat white I had at Alchemy coffee last weekend.  Supremely delicious.  If you have had an excellent flat white I will need to know the name of the coffee shop.   So I can see if I concur. 

 

 *first photo courtesy of google images.

I will never forsake your company in the fall

With much anticipation I made my way downtown to the Starbucks on Massachusetts street the other day for my first pumpkin spice latte of the season.

Adored by many, maligned by a few, pumpkin spice latte you will always be dear to my heart.  With your sweet, warm, spicy, comforting flavor I will never forsake your company in the fall.

What can I say?   I am powerless to resist.   I am not ashamed to admit it. 

I do not however, talk to the pumpkin spice latte in public.  This is just between you and me. 

pretty much an exact replica of the place

Today, despite the 90+ degree temperature, I met my friend at Hi Hat Coffee.  We sat outside moving from chair to chair to stay in the shade of the one umbrella outside on the patio. 

It's a teeny place that used to be a gas station and maybe a dry cleaners before it became one of the best places in Kansas City to get a well made latte.  That means it is creamy, with a bold rich coffee flavor, and a touch of sweetness that makes you have to close your eyes and go "mmmm" after each sip... until you realize you might look like a fool and you stop and just enjoy it.     

When I got home I sketched the building from a picture I took while we were there.  This is pretty much an exact replica of the place.  Pay no attention to that small square up in the left corner where I had already drawn a petal of a sunflower that actually looks more like a banana. 

The latte I had was either a butterbean or a buttercream.  It's the one on the menu board that says it has brown sugar in it.  Simply divine. 

that look on my brothers face might make them second guess allowing us on the grounds

I received an e-mail from the Credentials Committee at Augusta National today.  In said e-mail they kindly informed me that the random selection process for the 2015 Practice Rounds tickets had been completed.  They further said they regretted to inform me that my application was not selected for tickets.  Drat!  I knew I should have told them I had a golf journal and enclosed this picture in my application.

I'll know better next year.  I see no reason not to embellish my application a little.  It never hurts to stand out in the minds of the folks at the Masters tournament.  Even though that look on my brothers face might make them second guess allowing us on the grounds.

I cheered myself up by getting out my Masters tumbler and making a pumpkin iced coffee with dizzy three espresso vodka and torani coffee syrup. 

Best decision I made all day. 

Someone asked about how I make cold brewed coffee a while back.  It's a breeze.  Take 1 part coarsely ground coffee and  4 parts water (1/2 cup grounds + 2 cups water will give you  1 1/2 cups of cold brew) put it in a french press coffee maker and stick it in the refrigerator overnight.  Press it.  If you want, you can strain it through a filter as well.   Pour over ice and add milk and whatever else you like in your iced coffee. I have a tray of coffee iced cubes in the freezer downstairs but I forgot about them in my haste!  Great way to used leftover regular coffee and it keeps your iced coffee from tasting even one bit watered down. 

 

toast has come to town

I ambled into the Black Dog Coffeehouse the other day to see what kind of special latte they were brewing up for the holidays.  Last year (or was it 2 years ago?) they had a sugar cookie latte that was perfection.  

I found this instead.   Toast!   At a coffeehouse?

Oh yes.  Toast at a coffeehouse.  But not just any old ordinary toast.   This is the king of toasts... and there were choices. 

I selected the cranberry walnut and Liz decided on the pumpkin.  Then we settled in and waited. 

Blackdog you have reached a new pinnacle of "sublimeness" in my book.  I hope this is going to be a regular item on your menu.  If not you may have a riot on your hands when my sister comes to town for Christmas and I bring her here for toast. 

Move over scones, lemon pound cake, and biscuits.  Toast has come to town!

I will of course get the cruller on the side

I finally had the chance to check out Oddly Correct this week.

I am going to admit from the get-go that I went with a teensy weensy bit of concern and a small bag of sugar in my purse.   Yep.   At this place they believe that coffee should be enjoyed for the pure unadulterated flavor of a straight-up cup of Joe.   I am a cream and sugar girl.  I also believe in being prepared.

This place has a good vibe and the baristas are skilled AND friendly.  I decided to go with a cappucino and Joan got a latte.  We sipped and went "mmmmmm".  Joan said "do you taste molasses?"  I said "I taste GOOD".  It went back and forth like that for a few minutes as we let the silky smooth concoctions roll around in our mouths. 

Maybe it was the use of the whole milk.  Perhaps it was the perfect temperature.  It could also have been the correct ratio of espresso to foam.   Whatever.   I can admit to the possibility that in this world there exists a cappucino so perfect that it does not need sugar ... because I have now tasted it. 

In the midst of all our rhapsodizing this woman walked in and sat down for a pour over and a cruller.  It was all I could do not to stand up and yell BRAVO at her sense of style.   

I'm going back soon to try the pour over myself.  I will of course get the cruller on the side.  If I can't look like Lyndsey I can certainly follow her lead on the menu.

waiting till October pledge

Today FALL was in the air here in the midwest. 

...and you know what that meant.    I broke my own "waiting till October" pledge.   Sitting outside on a Friday when it's 65 degrees, talking with one of your best chums about life in general, sipping on a pumpkin spice latte.  Well life just doesn't get any better than that. 

I am getting up at the crack of dawn and hitting the road

Today, in between working, teaching a class, and working some more... I took myself over to The Filling Station Coffee Garage.   I ordered a pineapple coconut scone and a cappuccino and settled in for a 30 minute planning session.

I am off on Friday.  The best thing about being off on Friday is thinking on Wednesday and Thursday about all the things you might want to do.   I am getting up at the crack of dawn and hitting the road.  There are several places I have been meaning to investigate and tomorrow is the day.  It's going to be like 100 degrees or some such ridiculously hot temperature.   Not a problem.  My blue toes will keep me thinking cool thoughts. 

Oh by the way, that scone was perfect.  Craggy on the outside, tender on the inside, not overly sweet,  with bits of pineapple and coconut, and every once in a while just a touch of icing.   Delectable.   

I have to figure out what a pour over is

I got up early today because my cat Lewis Mulvenon had a serious case of it's spring and I NEED to go outside NOW.  This was at 6:30am.  Finding myself up and ready to go for my 8:30 haircut at 7:30am, I headed for the Farmers Market first.

The thing I like most about the farmers market is the people.  I love looking at what they are buying and selling.  My favorite today was this young girl in her apron, at the ready with answers to any questions about the baked goods she was selling with her mom.   My second favorite were the ladies in their very stylish hats.

I also saw Morels and was tempted to buy some, but then thought it would be best if I knew what I was going to do with them first. 

****Between now and next Saturday I would appreciate it if any of you who have cooked with Morels would let me know the 4-1-1 on them.**** 

After the farmers market I had just enough time to check out the newest coffee shop in Lawrence.

When I ordered my usual cappuccino without looking at the menu they kindly told me they don't have espresso but talked about a "pour over" and a french press.  I was in a hurry and didn't want to ask exactly what a  pour over was so I got a french press and headed out the door after snapping a quick photo.

My french press was perfection and I will definately be back to this place.   I have to figure out what a pour over is and that is going to take some observing.   Don't worry.  I will be reporting back with the details.  

P.S.  These fellows behind the counter were very nice.   I love good coffee.  I really love good coffee and friendly baristas.  

Angie re-thinks the cinammon dolce latte

Angie has never liked Starbucks.  Or so she claims.  When I get a drink there she says "let me have a little taste", then she takes a sip, wrinkles up her mouth,  gets this terrible expression on her face,  and tells me "it's too stong".  Last weekend though she took a sip of my cinammon dolce latte and her eyes got all sparkly and she said "mmmmm, that's good".  I guess it's possible her taste is changing?   That's what Dottie said anyway.    

When I asked her if she liked it as much as a carmel pretzel crunch from Sheridan's she said "it's even better".     I'm pretty sure she will change her mind come summer. 

Photo credit:  Dottie Moss

ideas while under the influence of nelly

Date:  Monday, February 4, 2012
Time:  7:29 am
Place:  Black Dog Coffee House, Lenexa, Kansas.

Today I threw caution to the wind and dove straight into February.  My drink selection  had just the faint aroma of strawberry and a soft whisper of white chocolate.   Perfection.  It earned Cupid's seal of approval. 

As I sat,  people came in for coffee on their way to work.  I basked in the sheer luxury of not being one of them and savored a morning that will never again unfold in exactly this way. 


Then I came home and strung felt balls on bakers twine.   I'm not sure if it was my Valentines drink or Pam's garlands that had me in the mood to decorate.  All I can say is this is just the beginning.  I had several ideas while under the influence of Nelly.  

the perfect amount of exertion

I did not go shopping on Black Friday.  But if I was going to do any shopping, I would have bought this.   I saw it sitting outside a cute little shop in Lenexa.  I was on a mission today and only had time to grab a few photos.  I love you sweet chair.  I will be back to negotiate with your current owners. 

I decided the day after Thanksgiving was a good day to have my first gingerbread latte of the season.  And I decided the place to have it was The Blackdog Coffee House. 

A very good choice on my part as it turned out. 

It was the ideal place to sit and let the prospect of three days off sink in.   We sat and contemplated which classes to take at the knitting retreat coming up in February.   The perfect amount of exertion for the day after Thanksgiving, if I do say so myself.   

pumpkin lattes: a review

I like pumpkin.  Pumpkin pie, pumpkin oatmeal, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin bars, baked pumpkin, pumpkin pie martinis, and yes... pumpkin latte's.  I like pumpkin flavor so much in fact that I just purchased a new bottle of flavoring syrup in case for some reason I could not get out of the house for weeks on end and needed to make pumpkin flavored coffee drinks at home. 

Every year in the fall I look forward to October when 'pumpkin latte season' officially opens.  In the last (approximately) 38 days  I have sampled 3 versions at some of my favorite coffee places.   I provide this review and encourage your input in case I have missed your favorite. 

The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is available widely.  It is creamy, super-sweet, and has "full-on pumpkin flavor".  It also has that nice cold whipped cream on the top that I so enjoy.  Whenever I have one I make sure I am firmly seated when I take my first sip so I don't swoon and fall all over myself with joy.   

The Maple Pumpkin Latte from LatteLand is thick.  It has real pumpkin in it and tastes exactly like a piece of pumpkin pie topped with a thin layer of whipped cream that has been drizzled with maple syrup.  Just imagine that -  blended with espresso and super creamy milk and you have it.  Not as sweet as the Starbucks version and did I mention it is thick and has real pumpkin in it?  I die. 

At Signs of Life bookstore in downtown Lawrence,  the Pumpkin Latte is first and foremost a coffee drink.  Then you taste the subtle pumpkin flavor with a vanilla undertone.  It is the least sweet of the three and is completely delicious.   

Which one do I like best?   Don't be silly.  I want to be friends with all of them and simply could not choose one over the other.   

hello dizzy three

It has arrived.  And so the mixology experimentation begins. 

For those who like to sip their vodka over ice - you are in for a treat.  It is also divine mixed 1 part dizzy three, 1 part kahlua, 1 part milk - poured over ice, shaken, and strained into a glass.  Can you say perfect nightcap?   The coffee flavor is intense but not overpowering.  Just like I like it.   

Thank you Cork & Barrel on 23rd street in Lawrence Kansas for getting this in especially for me. 

Harebrained Scheme #437

Several years ago I saw this book at a local coffee shop. 

At the time I was trying to think of something to get a friend for Christmas.  Thus was born Harebrained Scheme #437.  Buy book.  Give to friend.  Include note that you will take her to each of these places and buy her a coffee.  Book will be used to record experiences.  It will be fun. 

There are 17 places in the book.  We have been to 9.  Two of them are closed.  We have 6 left to go. 

The project was supposed to take a year.  It has been 3 years since we started.  The problem is once you find a few great places you want to go back again and again and you don't try hard enough to get to those out of the way places.  But we are NOT giving up.

We are committed to completing this coffee journey. 

One table and one cup at a time. 

a public service announcement

The Season of Love Latte menu is up at The Blackdog Coffeehouse. 

I can personally vouch for the Sweet Heart Latte.  Liz thought it was good too :-)

I do not know the owners and receive no free drinks for my endorsement.  This is a public service announcement to those of you who reside within driving distance of this establishment on 87th St. in Lenexa Kansas.  

an equal opportunity drinker

I like the ritual of tea.  I like it at home where I can boil the water in a kettle and pour it into a cup my sister gave me many moons ago and dip in one of those lovely Haney & Son's sachets.

And I love it at my desk at work where I have to microwave the water and pour it into a cup my friend Hilda gave me in 1993 when we worked together and shared an office. 

There is something soothing about the dipping, followed by inhaling that mildly fragranced steam, and wrapping your hands around the mug while you hunch your shoulders up and go "ahhh".    

I don't think I will ever give up coffee.  Coffee with breakfast is a must.  Espresso after a meal in Italy is a requirement.  Cappuccino at the locally owned coffee shops while on vacation is a preoccupation.  I am an equal opportunity drinker though which means tea in the afternoon at work and in the evening at home is not only allowed, it is encouraged. 

someone is waving a snickerdoodle under your nose

If you haven't scheduled your post-holiday debriefing session yet don't worry.  There is plenty of time.  I had one today.   It goes like this.  Meet friend for coffee.  Swap holiday stories.  Talk about what a mess your house is.   Console each other.  

If you live in the Kansas City area I am going to suggest you try the Black Dog Coffee House on 87th street in Lenexa as your therapy location.    You can't go wrong with the Christmas Cookie latte.

This is NOT one of those sickeningly sweet drinks.  It's more like someone is waving a snickerdoodle under your nose each time you bring the cup up to take a sip.  It melts away any residual holiday regrets and absolves you of the need to make resolutions.   My session today was so therapeutic I went ahead and set up another one for later in the week.   

p.s.

My sister Dottie who is the Moss sister with the most miles under her belt in terms of globe-trotting, sent me these images to use for my meeting with the Dunn Brother executives this coming week.   I felt certain you would enjoy them. 

It's very nice to have a sister who can supply original, high quality, photos for use at such  meetings at the drop of a hat.   

You will have to send me your Brazil photos next.  I might have bought a pound of beans from there too.  


I will of course be talking to them about adding a photo to the labels.  Stand by for travel assignments.  All expenses paid of course.   

I have a very active imagination

This morning as I drank my coffee on the front porch I imagined I was on the plains of the Serengeti.  It was the freshly roasted coffee from Africa that had me closing my eyes and feeling the thundering hooves of migrating animals.  I saw gazelles, zebras, wildebeests.

Dunn Brothers should hire me to write the descriptions on their labels.   I went ahead and called them this morning and shot them a few ideas about incorporating the visual sense into their "bold, fruity, full-bodied" description of the brew I was having.  Their corporate headquarters said they would be in touch about setting up a meeting.  I am thinking I will get a call probably early next week. 

spellbound by mums

I am spellbound by mums this year.  Actually I am every year, but this year the enchantment seems especially strong.  I love that faint unmistakable fragrance of a mum.  You can't miss it when you squat down so low you almost tumble onto the mums when taking a picture.

I'm pretty sure no one saw though.   In the unlikely event that the near tumble was caused by a low blood sugar, I staggered down the street and had a little breakfast.

 
Coffee cake with maple glaze and a "brewed to order" coffee.   I felt quite steady on my feet after this.   I am calling it my new breakfast of champions.  Sorry Wheaties.  You have been de-throned. 

The iced indonesian

The heat wave broke last night with some big thunder-boomer (send your cat to the basement) rainstorms.  The morning glory's said thank you this morning.

 
I did too since I was off and the grass needed mowing.  As I made my neat and orderly passes with the mower I wondered if being content to be mowing the grass on a day off was a sign of something.  Something like, oh I don't know, being a boring adult?  Then I remembered that my friend Nancy loves to mow the yard, and she is perhaps the most hip person I know so I put the thought out of my mind and just kept right on enjoying myself.  

 
I high-tailed it downtown as soon as I had showered to collect my reward.  The iced indonesian.  I needed to be sure they were still on the menu and they were still the best thirst quencher around.  I must keep up on these things.  You know, in case anyone asks me where to get the best iced coffee in my town.   I can now say with confidence that they are and they ARE.   Note to self:  reward yourself with one of these more often.  And definately say yes when they ask about the whipped cream. 

Rock on Coffee Girls!

 

Today between meetings I was on assignment.  Working to get another of the things on the "52 by 53" list done.  Plus I hadn't been to a new coffee place for awhile and it was time.

 

Fresh baked goods under glass domes sitting atop an orange sideboard.  Orange chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.  I'm getting a good feeling.... 

 

If this nicely foamed, perfectly roasted cappucino had been served in an orange cup I would have moaned out loud.  That's probably why they don't do it.  This assignment was pure pleasure.  I set up my writing, knitting, drinking, station and spent a delightful hour looking out the window and listening to some pleasing tunes in the background.  You know just loud enough so every once in a while you get the urge to sing along but not loud enough to make you get those irritated squinty frown lines between your eyes. 

What with the orange color and the vintage Bob Dylan "like a rolling stone" I was transported back to the 60's for a minute (or ten).   Rock on Coffee Girls!    

A key component to optimal thinking is the right environment

I wish I had more time to think.  You know, just sit and think.  Reflect on the events of the day.  Examine the details of my latest great idea and figure out how to make it work.  Contemplate what I would be doing right now if I had married Ricky Mergner after we kissed during a "spin the bottle game" in Panama in 1972.  Ponder the pros and cons of accepting the offer to be on the next season of the amazing race.  You get the idea.  Sitting.  Thinking.  A key component to optimal thinking is the right environment.

 

I have conducted some experimental thinking sessions at the Roasterie Cafe in Brookside.  I am currently having a 73.6% success rate at achieving what I meditate on while I am there.  I can therefore recommend it as a good place to sit and think.  The capuccino and frosted cookie with sprinkles on top have nothing to do with this endorsement.    

I was not eavesdropping

Recently I was introduced to a new concept in filling stations.

 

It's a concept I can get into.   Take a funky old building.  Imagine it as a neighborhood coffee place.  Wave your magic wand  and voila -  The KC Coffee Garage.

 

Add outsider art made with coffee paraphernalia, accomplished baristas, some groovy tunes playing overhead and you got it going on in my book. 

 

Did I mention the thick white porcelain cups and the perfect foam on my cappuccino?  Let me explain how that cranberry oatmeal nut cookie came to rest on my table.  First of all I was not eavesdropping on the conversation in front of me in line, but I did happen to hear out of the corner of my ear that "the cookies here are not to die for, they are to kill for".  It was like a gauntlet being thrown down in front of me.  How could I not sample a cookie worth killing for?  Go ahead.  Tell me you wouldn't have done the same. 

Hi Hat I salute you

 
There are few things in life as pleasing as the perfect cappucino.  The robust richness of the espresso tempered by the creamy smoothness of the milk foam.  I like to stir in some "sugar in the raw".  The crunch of the granules mixed with the foam add another dimension of delight to the experience (think sprinkles on a cupcake).

 
 
A nice spot to sit and let life just drift by while you sip is a bonus.

 
Hi Hat I salute you.
Signed,
A grateful customer