The drive from Springfield to Chicago is a long one - made even longer with two small children in the back. The drive through Indiana was particularly painful because Indiana is particularly boring - to look at from the car I mean. I'm sure it's great when you get to know it.
Obviously we needed to take breaks to give little legs a run and big ears a rest from 'Ten Green Bottles'. But we didn't just want to make a McStop somewhere.
And then, 14 miles before we arrived at it, a huge sign on the side of the freeway advertised Fair Oak Farms. Also on the sign was the promise of gourmet coffee so we decided that was the place for us. Would you believe it? The gourmet coffee being served was Starbucks. But that's not the real reason why Fair Oak Farms gets a mention.
Before discovering the large and mostly empty cafe area and gift shop (I think they get more people in the summer) we went into the Adventure Centre. The lady at the reception desk, after pointing me in the direction of the toilets, told me a little about the experience. Fair Oak Farms is one of the largest dairy farms in the USA. You can go on a tour around the farm and see the cows, taste the milk, watch cheese being made, that sort of thing. But the highlight of the tour is a visit the the Birthing Barn where you can watch a cow being born. Now, not having much bovine knowledge, I enquired (slightly sarcastically) into the chances of seeing a real birth. If I'm paying $7 for the tour I want to see some action! I was stunned to hear that the farm has 30,000 cows. On average 80 are born every day! (I didn't ask how many died every day and what happened to them - 'cos of the kids, you understand).
Unfortunately we only had time for a gourmet coffee and a milkshake, but I can't wait to get back to Indiana one day.
Saturday, 9 December 2006
One World Cafe
We stayed with my sister-in-law and her family for a few days. They live in Springfield. (I was excited the first time I heard they lived there until I discovered that there is a Springfield in pretty much every state. No funny, yellow families to be found.)
My wife's sister, H, is a teacher and her husband, J, has various roles in Christian ministry. I was interested to talk with J one night while the two sisters were out. We have a lot of similar feelings about 'church' - what it is, what it perhaps is meant to be, what to do about it, etc. Unfortunately we weren't drinking coffee at the time so, as this blog centres around views of life over a cup of coffee, I'll have to wait for another opportunity to go down that road.
However, on another occasion, J showed me around a new coffeehouse that just opened a few weeks ago. It's being run as a project between a number of Christian ministries in the Springfield area and is called Un Mundo Cafe. The cafe is located in a rougher part of the city and is hoped to bring together people from that neighbourhood with people who are into the coffee "thing" and may be passing through. The cafe is proud to use Fairtrade and organic products.
They are still getting the hang of running a coffeehouse. The service is a little slow (but friendly) and you may find that your latte is not quite as hot as you'd like. Apparently the owner wants them served "the way they should be" - just warm enough so you can taste it. She sees it as an opportunity to educate people about coffee. Hmmmm? I'm not sure how much the public want to be educated in the finer points of coffee, but I will make an effort to do some research myself about how a latte should be served. (I'll check online and talk to a few baristas.)
Anyway, I respect what they are doing at Un Mundo. Coffee is such a huge part of contemporary culture, that it might be a good avenue to go down in an attempt to relate a living Christ with society. The vision of Un Mundo is, 'To share God's love to all; from the coffee grower to the coffee drinker and beyond.'
Now, what if Church could be a little like...
My wife's sister, H, is a teacher and her husband, J, has various roles in Christian ministry. I was interested to talk with J one night while the two sisters were out. We have a lot of similar feelings about 'church' - what it is, what it perhaps is meant to be, what to do about it, etc. Unfortunately we weren't drinking coffee at the time so, as this blog centres around views of life over a cup of coffee, I'll have to wait for another opportunity to go down that road.
However, on another occasion, J showed me around a new coffeehouse that just opened a few weeks ago. It's being run as a project between a number of Christian ministries in the Springfield area and is called Un Mundo Cafe. The cafe is located in a rougher part of the city and is hoped to bring together people from that neighbourhood with people who are into the coffee "thing" and may be passing through. The cafe is proud to use Fairtrade and organic products.
They are still getting the hang of running a coffeehouse. The service is a little slow (but friendly) and you may find that your latte is not quite as hot as you'd like. Apparently the owner wants them served "the way they should be" - just warm enough so you can taste it. She sees it as an opportunity to educate people about coffee. Hmmmm? I'm not sure how much the public want to be educated in the finer points of coffee, but I will make an effort to do some research myself about how a latte should be served. (I'll check online and talk to a few baristas.)
Anyway, I respect what they are doing at Un Mundo. Coffee is such a huge part of contemporary culture, that it might be a good avenue to go down in an attempt to relate a living Christ with society. The vision of Un Mundo is, 'To share God's love to all; from the coffee grower to the coffee drinker and beyond.'
Now, what if Church could be a little like...
Monday, 27 November 2006
My Ultimate Posting
This is a blog which revolves around coffee in some way.
Today I visited Borders bookshop.
I bought a regular latte then browsed the shelves.
I came across and bought the following book.
Enough said,
Today I visited Borders bookshop.
I bought a regular latte then browsed the shelves.
I came across and bought the following book.
Enough said,
Egg-Not Latte
A traditional American drink around this time of year is eggnog. It's kind of a strange drink. I think, like marmite, you either love it or hate it. While living in the States a few years ago I got into it. Eggnog is made from milk, cream, egg, nutmeg and probably some other stuff - some people add various spirits, however I live an alcohol free life. You can pick up eggnog from the milk section of the food store. Unfortunately I've not found it for sale in any grocery stores in the UK or Ireland, so I make sure I have some when visiting family stateside. In fact, I'm drinking half a glass now. (You don't really want to drink more that half or you're likely to hurl.)
I noticed a couple of weeks ago at a Starbucks in Dublin that they serve an Eggnog Latte. I don't think it's made from real eggnog, just a flavoured syrup. Anyway, I decided to wait to experience this taste in its true home.
Yesterday, after a lunch with my wife's brother and sister and their spouses [I think the plural of spouse should be spice], we walked through my wife's home town of Oxford, Ohio (another university town). Stopping off at Starbucks I waited for what was starting to feel like an unnecessary length of time to make a drink - an eggnog latte. Leaving the coffeeshop I took a sip. And then a second to confirm what my tastebuds where telling me:
It wasn't worth the wait.
I noticed a couple of weeks ago at a Starbucks in Dublin that they serve an Eggnog Latte. I don't think it's made from real eggnog, just a flavoured syrup. Anyway, I decided to wait to experience this taste in its true home.
Yesterday, after a lunch with my wife's brother and sister and their spouses [I think the plural of spouse should be spice], we walked through my wife's home town of Oxford, Ohio (another university town). Stopping off at Starbucks I waited for what was starting to feel like an unnecessary length of time to make a drink - an eggnog latte. Leaving the coffeeshop I took a sip. And then a second to confirm what my tastebuds where telling me:
It wasn't worth the wait.
Friday, 24 November 2006
E=mc2
When we where first married we lived in Rocky River, a lovely suburb of Cleveland, Ohio. There where a couple of great coffeehouses in the area which, now that I think about it, I really quite miss.
There was also a great bagel place, part of a chain in parts of the mid-west, called Einstein Bagel Bros. Not only did/do they serve great bagels and delicious muffins, they also have my favourite flavour of coffee - vanilla hazelnut blend.
Anyway, Einsteins Bagels have yet to cross the Atlantic (please come!) so we wanted to make a point of stopping at one during our trip. In fact, such was our desire to get a cup of vanilla hazelnut that we sought out a hotel for our first night that was located near and EBB. And so, bleary-eyed with jet lag I made my way to West Lafayette (a university town in Indiana) on Tuesday morning for breakfast. I wasn't disappointed and I bought a couple of bags of beans to bring home. (Readers are welcome to come over for a coffee taste sensation.)
I have to say, I do like American university towns. The leafy campus, the buzz of students, cool bookshops, and of course great coffeehouses. Plus, I think, an essence of sentimentality because it reminds me of visiting my wife (then my international girlfriend) when she was at university - the place where I first experienced coffeehouse culture.
There was also a great bagel place, part of a chain in parts of the mid-west, called Einstein Bagel Bros. Not only did/do they serve great bagels and delicious muffins, they also have my favourite flavour of coffee - vanilla hazelnut blend.
Anyway, Einsteins Bagels have yet to cross the Atlantic (please come!) so we wanted to make a point of stopping at one during our trip. In fact, such was our desire to get a cup of vanilla hazelnut that we sought out a hotel for our first night that was located near and EBB. And so, bleary-eyed with jet lag I made my way to West Lafayette (a university town in Indiana) on Tuesday morning for breakfast. I wasn't disappointed and I bought a couple of bags of beans to bring home. (Readers are welcome to come over for a coffee taste sensation.)
I have to say, I do like American university towns. The leafy campus, the buzz of students, cool bookshops, and of course great coffeehouses. Plus, I think, an essence of sentimentality because it reminds me of visiting my wife (then my international girlfriend) when she was at university - the place where I first experienced coffeehouse culture.
Cafe Americano
I'm in the USA visiting the in-laws for Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm going to try and write a few postings while I'm here, starting with...
Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm going to try and write a few postings while I'm here, starting with...
Thursday, 9 November 2006
Soup of the Day
Some of the teens we work with are going to learn to knit this weekend. I won't be teaching them, but I do vaguely remember some rhyme about a bunny going around a tree or something that taught you how to knit?!? Wait...I think it's coming back to me...
In through the bunny hole and once round the tree,
Out through the bunny hole and off pops she.
Wow, I'm not sure what part of my brain I retrieved that from. (I wonder if there's any other interesting stuff lurking around in there?)
Anyway, the students are learning to knit so they can make scarves to take to some homeless people in the city. So I tagged along with my wife to a department store to buy lots of wool. While there we stopped for a break at the intriguingly named Chocolate Soup Cafe.
On inspection of the menu I was pretty disappointed to only see vegetable, tomato, mushroom and, of course, potato and leek soup. No chocolate soup at all!
I ordered a regular latte and a scone.
It was while I was paying that I noticed the huge chocolate fountain. I think they pour the melted chocolate on fruit or pancakes, that kind of thing. I asked the girl working there if she was ever tempted to stick her finger in the lovely, running chocolatey goodness. (I was!) The girl replied that she can't stand chocolate - not even the smell. I didn't bother asking the obvious follow-up question.
This has got me thinking though. Maybe the men and women who receive the scarves would like some soup too. Perhaps we should do something about that.
In through the bunny hole and once round the tree,
Out through the bunny hole and off pops she.
Wow, I'm not sure what part of my brain I retrieved that from. (I wonder if there's any other interesting stuff lurking around in there?)
Anyway, the students are learning to knit so they can make scarves to take to some homeless people in the city. So I tagged along with my wife to a department store to buy lots of wool. While there we stopped for a break at the intriguingly named Chocolate Soup Cafe.
On inspection of the menu I was pretty disappointed to only see vegetable, tomato, mushroom and, of course, potato and leek soup. No chocolate soup at all!
I ordered a regular latte and a scone.
It was while I was paying that I noticed the huge chocolate fountain. I think they pour the melted chocolate on fruit or pancakes, that kind of thing. I asked the girl working there if she was ever tempted to stick her finger in the lovely, running chocolatey goodness. (I was!) The girl replied that she can't stand chocolate - not even the smell. I didn't bother asking the obvious follow-up question.
This has got me thinking though. Maybe the men and women who receive the scarves would like some soup too. Perhaps we should do something about that.
Sunday, 5 November 2006
Cafe 101
I heard about a new cafe that has opened in London, just around the corner from St Paul's Cathedral. I decided to pay a visit.
As I walked down the stairs to the basement location I immediately noticed how light, bright and large the cafe was. Lots of big windows for people to see out and in, bright furniture and the sound of people enjoying being together. It didn't have the atmosphere of most coffeehouses I visit - lower lighting, jazz/chill music, slightly moody. This was different and I think that was intentional.
I purchased a regular latte (all teas, coffees and some snacks were Fairtrade) and took a seat in a swivel chair in the corner giving me a vantage point to take it all in and do some people watching. Around me, scattered on tables and display stands, were leaflets, brochures and books. I flicked through a few and it wasn't long before I recognised a few faces in the photos. In fact, as I looked around the cafe there were a few people that I had seen before even though I had never been to this cafe until now. That's because this was the new cafe at 101 Queen Victoria Street, the international headquarters of The Salvation Army - the Christian movement in which I minister.
I think the cafe is a great idea and is open to staff and any members of the public. Along with the drinks, snacks and light meals, Cafe 101 serves up information about Salvation Army ministry around the world through excellent displays, internet points and literature. I was particularly taken with one booklet which described in a concise manner who The Salvation Army is, what it does and why. Here's a couple of extracts:
On Believing...
"Belief in God is the source of the love that motivates our worldwide ministry. It is also the source of our strength. We are an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Our message is based on the Bible. Our belief in God, given expression through worship and prayer, leads to our belief in human worth and human potential.
This motivates our actions, which aim to change individuals, and ultimately the world, for good."
Along with over 15,000 worshipping churches around the world, with a membership of more than a million, The Salvation Army is also involved in mission at the 'front line'...
"Worldwide, our diverse expression of God's love shows itself in help for millions of people every year, through 539 hostels for the homeless, 211 emergency lodges, 202 children's homes, 212 homes for the elderly, 39 homes for the disabled, and a further 725 residential homes for various purposes; 25 general hospitals, a further 12 specialist hospitals, and 346 mobile medical clinics. We operate 1,877 schools, attended by more than half-a-million pupils and staffed by 15,000 teachers; 107 vocational training centres and 72 colleges and universities. We run 1,480 day care centres answering all manner of needs, and 220 addiction dependency programmes. We operate hundreds of disaster rehabilitation schemes, visit over a quarter-of-a-million prisoners every year and trace more than 8,000 missing people annually. We estimate the total number of people we help every year is more than 18 million."
Wow. 18 million! That's Australia.
Sometimes when you're focused on doing your own thing at a very local level you forget about a bigger picture. This was one latte that helped me put in perspective what I/we do. I have to say, I came away from Cafe 101 feeling good about being a Salvationist.
As I walked down the stairs to the basement location I immediately noticed how light, bright and large the cafe was. Lots of big windows for people to see out and in, bright furniture and the sound of people enjoying being together. It didn't have the atmosphere of most coffeehouses I visit - lower lighting, jazz/chill music, slightly moody. This was different and I think that was intentional.
I purchased a regular latte (all teas, coffees and some snacks were Fairtrade) and took a seat in a swivel chair in the corner giving me a vantage point to take it all in and do some people watching. Around me, scattered on tables and display stands, were leaflets, brochures and books. I flicked through a few and it wasn't long before I recognised a few faces in the photos. In fact, as I looked around the cafe there were a few people that I had seen before even though I had never been to this cafe until now. That's because this was the new cafe at 101 Queen Victoria Street, the international headquarters of The Salvation Army - the Christian movement in which I minister.
I think the cafe is a great idea and is open to staff and any members of the public. Along with the drinks, snacks and light meals, Cafe 101 serves up information about Salvation Army ministry around the world through excellent displays, internet points and literature. I was particularly taken with one booklet which described in a concise manner who The Salvation Army is, what it does and why. Here's a couple of extracts:
On Believing...
"Belief in God is the source of the love that motivates our worldwide ministry. It is also the source of our strength. We are an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Our message is based on the Bible. Our belief in God, given expression through worship and prayer, leads to our belief in human worth and human potential.
This motivates our actions, which aim to change individuals, and ultimately the world, for good."
Along with over 15,000 worshipping churches around the world, with a membership of more than a million, The Salvation Army is also involved in mission at the 'front line'...
"Worldwide, our diverse expression of God's love shows itself in help for millions of people every year, through 539 hostels for the homeless, 211 emergency lodges, 202 children's homes, 212 homes for the elderly, 39 homes for the disabled, and a further 725 residential homes for various purposes; 25 general hospitals, a further 12 specialist hospitals, and 346 mobile medical clinics. We operate 1,877 schools, attended by more than half-a-million pupils and staffed by 15,000 teachers; 107 vocational training centres and 72 colleges and universities. We run 1,480 day care centres answering all manner of needs, and 220 addiction dependency programmes. We operate hundreds of disaster rehabilitation schemes, visit over a quarter-of-a-million prisoners every year and trace more than 8,000 missing people annually. We estimate the total number of people we help every year is more than 18 million."
Wow. 18 million! That's Australia.
Sometimes when you're focused on doing your own thing at a very local level you forget about a bigger picture. This was one latte that helped me put in perspective what I/we do. I have to say, I came away from Cafe 101 feeling good about being a Salvationist.
Saturday, 4 November 2006
Victoria Rains
While staying in London we decided to take a train into the city to look around. As it was raining we didn't get very far. In fact we intentionally decided to only go as far as Victoria station. Although not known for being a top tourist attraction it's actually quite a cool place to hang out. It's always so busy and has lots of shops, some of which we don't have in Dublin (such as Krispy Kreme!!! Mmm, doughnuts). It also has over 25 places across the station where you could get a coffee. (Yes, I did go around and count them.) Included in this total were three Starbucks outlets proving the claim that the Starbucks strategy is to flood an area with stores in order to force other coffee shops to close. But I guess there's room for everyone at Victoria.
There were also a couple of sushi bars, but I didn't check them for coffee. I didn't want to know. That would just be wrong.
I did, however, buy a souvenir coffee mug from K.K.
There were also a couple of sushi bars, but I didn't check them for coffee. I didn't want to know. That would just be wrong.
I did, however, buy a souvenir coffee mug from K.K.
Monday, 30 October 2006
Sister
A couple of weeks ago we, as a family, were over in London. My wife was taking a writers course. (I've been nagging my wife for ages to get back in to writing - I hope this is a first step in returning to something she is very good at.) Because my wife is feeding our son it meant he had to go to London too. Because my son couldn't go on the course I had to go to London to babysit during class times. It just made sense that our two year old daughter should come too.
While in London it gave me a chance to catch up with my sister and her brilliant family. My sister and brother-in-law are involved in cross-cultural ministry in the east end of London. I've got so much respect for what they are doing. It's great stuff.
My sister has recently purchased a nice espresso machine so she made a few lattes. I said, as I sipped, that I'd mention this latte on my blog.
So here it is.
Hi!
(My sister also has a new bread maker which makes delicious breads, but this blog isn't about bread so I won't mention it. However, she did make some kind of trifle soaking the sponge in freshly brewed espresso. The aforementioned two year old loved it.)
While in London it gave me a chance to catch up with my sister and her brilliant family. My sister and brother-in-law are involved in cross-cultural ministry in the east end of London. I've got so much respect for what they are doing. It's great stuff.
My sister has recently purchased a nice espresso machine so she made a few lattes. I said, as I sipped, that I'd mention this latte on my blog.
So here it is.
Hi!
(My sister also has a new bread maker which makes delicious breads, but this blog isn't about bread so I won't mention it. However, she did make some kind of trifle soaking the sponge in freshly brewed espresso. The aforementioned two year old loved it.)
Some Catching Up To Do
I have a feeling that in order keep up a blog you have to make a bit of a habit of it. For one reason or another I've not posted for a few weeks, which is a shame because I have drunk lots of coffee which inspired some thoughts for blogging.
Anyway, I'm back now. If you're still interested in the thoughts that go through my head while drinking a regular latte read on! I'll try and catch up over the next few days.
Anyway, I'm back now. If you're still interested in the thoughts that go through my head while drinking a regular latte read on! I'll try and catch up over the next few days.
Tuesday, 10 October 2006
Revived
Sundays are always good at our house. It's when we get to do some of our favourite area of ministry.
In the morning we have 'Brunch Church' - a relaxed Sunday morning to enjoy a late breakfast together followed by spiritual discussions. It's just a small group that meets in our home, but it is open to anyone regardless of what they believe or don't believe. There's always good questions and topics of discussion about life and faith which often go unheard in church. Plus my wife always bakes something delicious (like banana bread, apple cake or pineapple and raisin muffins - yum!) There's always lots of coffee involved so I'm surprised that I've not blogged it before. I'm not going to now either. Some other time, maybe.
In the evening, seconds after we've got our kids to bed, my wife runs a youth group in our home for teen girls (GO! - Girls Only). I think it is one of the best things we do and the girls seem to enjoy it too.
This past Sunday they took a trip to the cinema to see 'The Devil Wears Prada'. I drove the mini-bus there, but (quite easily) resisted the urge to go see the movie. Instead I opted for some quality time with my baby son (plus a latte and The Sunday Times). I went in to the adjacent shopping centre to find a cafe and was amazed at how busy it was for a Sunday afternoon. I felt a tinge of regret that so many people could make it out to a mall, but not a church.
I had my pick of over a dozen cafes in the centre. However, Butlers Chocolate Cafe was full, Starbucks had a queue out the door and Cafe Paul Rankin didn't have enough room for a pushchair (and a large newspaper). But good old Marks & Spencer. Their Cafe Revive is down in the basement and almost always has space.
I like Cafe Revive for a couple of reasons. Firstly, all their tea and coffee is Fairtrade, secondly they call their regular latte a "Regular Latte" and not a French/Italian/Latin/or some other made up language for a name. I also like the fact that it comes with a free little shortbread.
It occurred to me, while I sipped my drink and read the paper in a care-free manner and was watched with envious eyes by other parents of small children, that maybe, like me, everyone else had gone to church this morning and Sunday was a good day for them too.
In the morning we have 'Brunch Church' - a relaxed Sunday morning to enjoy a late breakfast together followed by spiritual discussions. It's just a small group that meets in our home, but it is open to anyone regardless of what they believe or don't believe. There's always good questions and topics of discussion about life and faith which often go unheard in church. Plus my wife always bakes something delicious (like banana bread, apple cake or pineapple and raisin muffins - yum!) There's always lots of coffee involved so I'm surprised that I've not blogged it before. I'm not going to now either. Some other time, maybe.
In the evening, seconds after we've got our kids to bed, my wife runs a youth group in our home for teen girls (GO! - Girls Only). I think it is one of the best things we do and the girls seem to enjoy it too.
This past Sunday they took a trip to the cinema to see 'The Devil Wears Prada'. I drove the mini-bus there, but (quite easily) resisted the urge to go see the movie. Instead I opted for some quality time with my baby son (plus a latte and The Sunday Times). I went in to the adjacent shopping centre to find a cafe and was amazed at how busy it was for a Sunday afternoon. I felt a tinge of regret that so many people could make it out to a mall, but not a church.
I had my pick of over a dozen cafes in the centre. However, Butlers Chocolate Cafe was full, Starbucks had a queue out the door and Cafe Paul Rankin didn't have enough room for a pushchair (and a large newspaper). But good old Marks & Spencer. Their Cafe Revive is down in the basement and almost always has space.
I like Cafe Revive for a couple of reasons. Firstly, all their tea and coffee is Fairtrade, secondly they call their regular latte a "Regular Latte" and not a French/Italian/Latin/or some other made up language for a name. I also like the fact that it comes with a free little shortbread.
It occurred to me, while I sipped my drink and read the paper in a care-free manner and was watched with envious eyes by other parents of small children, that maybe, like me, everyone else had gone to church this morning and Sunday was a good day for them too.
Saturday, 30 September 2006
McStink
Today I was doing some fundraising on Grafton Street (a busy shopping area in Dublin) when I realised that there was a McDonald's with a McCafe. Unfortunately I didn't have my loyalty card (see below).
Stink!
Stink!
Thursday, 28 September 2006
Free Coffee
There is still a few more days to go until the end of 'Spend Nothing September' and, to be honest, I'm quite proud of myself. I've only slipped up once. Right at the start of the month I went out to study at the library, but it was closed. So, rather than walk back home, I went to Moda for a drink and as a place to study. All I bought was a tea for 1.35.
Needless to say, I'm looking forward to October when I can buy coffee (and other stuff) again. I fear that any money saved in September could easily be blown in October if I'm not careful.
But tonight I realised that I needn't have suffered for so long without my regular latte because in my wallet is a small stack of loyalty cards for free coffee! (You know, buy 10 drinks and get the next one free.) The only problem is I would feel a bit embarrassed to go into a coffeehouse just for the free drink - it's probably the Englishness in me.
Here's what I've got on the go at the moment:
I've filled up two cards from Moda (that's two free coffees) plus I'm on my way to a third.
McCafe owe me a free one (actually, now that I think about it I don't mind just getting the free coffee from McCafe. It would be like sticking it to the man. Kind of.)
I'm one drink away from a free one at BB's and half way there with O'Briens, Bench Cafe, and Insomnia (they still haven't opened their store near me yet.)
By the looks of it I am also entitled to a free photo development and almost there with a free refill for a printer cartridge. I think I also have a card somewhere for a bookstore.
Anyway, if you want to go out for coffee in the next few days I'll gladly come along as long as you don't mind paying for your own while I use the loyalty card.
Needless to say, I'm looking forward to October when I can buy coffee (and other stuff) again. I fear that any money saved in September could easily be blown in October if I'm not careful.
But tonight I realised that I needn't have suffered for so long without my regular latte because in my wallet is a small stack of loyalty cards for free coffee! (You know, buy 10 drinks and get the next one free.) The only problem is I would feel a bit embarrassed to go into a coffeehouse just for the free drink - it's probably the Englishness in me.
Here's what I've got on the go at the moment:
I've filled up two cards from Moda (that's two free coffees) plus I'm on my way to a third.
McCafe owe me a free one (actually, now that I think about it I don't mind just getting the free coffee from McCafe. It would be like sticking it to the man. Kind of.)
I'm one drink away from a free one at BB's and half way there with O'Briens, Bench Cafe, and Insomnia (they still haven't opened their store near me yet.)
By the looks of it I am also entitled to a free photo development and almost there with a free refill for a printer cartridge. I think I also have a card somewhere for a bookstore.
Anyway, if you want to go out for coffee in the next few days I'll gladly come along as long as you don't mind paying for your own while I use the loyalty card.
Thursday, 14 September 2006
Homemade Latte II
Um, just a quick warning about homemade lattes:
If you are going to heat milk in the microwave, keep an eye on it. Otherwise, like me, the milk will boil over in the mug. Then, because you didn't notice, the microwave will begin to cook the thin layer of milk that has flowed down the side of the mug leaving you with a crusty milk covered mug and not much in the way of usable milk for the latte.
I hope this advice helps. Always glad to be of service.
If you are going to heat milk in the microwave, keep an eye on it. Otherwise, like me, the milk will boil over in the mug. Then, because you didn't notice, the microwave will begin to cook the thin layer of milk that has flowed down the side of the mug leaving you with a crusty milk covered mug and not much in the way of usable milk for the latte.
I hope this advice helps. Always glad to be of service.
Monday, 11 September 2006
Homemade Latte
For once, the reason why I have not blogged for a couple of weeks is because I haven't gone out for coffee. In fact I haven't gone out for anything!
A few weeks ago my wife and I decided to challenge ourselves to a "spend nothing month". So we're giving it a go this month. It's for no particular reason really other that increasing some discipline when it comes to spending. We're not using it to get out of debt (although that's how we heard about it on....okay I'll admit it...Oprah. The couple being interviewed had a spend nothing year (!!!) to help their finances.) We're simply doing it to, in some small way, fight back against the monster god that is Consumerism.
The rules are pretty simple. Don't buy anything - except of course what you need to survive, like groceries. It means not buying CD's, DVD's, clothes, cakes, take-aways, sandwiches, chocolate bars, trips to the cinema (like that ever happens when you have young children!), newspapers, books, etc, etc, etc. AND COFFEE!!!
By the way, despite the fact that most of these items could easily be bought at our large Tesco that's not allowed.
So I'm having to improvise. I've found an easy way to make a homemade latte if you haven't got a fancy esspresso machine.
We are well into our second week and things are going well. Although you would be surprised at how often you think about buying stuff when you've said you wont. So many sales and special offers.
Why don't you give it a go?
A few weeks ago my wife and I decided to challenge ourselves to a "spend nothing month". So we're giving it a go this month. It's for no particular reason really other that increasing some discipline when it comes to spending. We're not using it to get out of debt (although that's how we heard about it on....okay I'll admit it...Oprah. The couple being interviewed had a spend nothing year (!!!) to help their finances.) We're simply doing it to, in some small way, fight back against the monster god that is Consumerism.
The rules are pretty simple. Don't buy anything - except of course what you need to survive, like groceries. It means not buying CD's, DVD's, clothes, cakes, take-aways, sandwiches, chocolate bars, trips to the cinema (like that ever happens when you have young children!), newspapers, books, etc, etc, etc. AND COFFEE!!!
By the way, despite the fact that most of these items could easily be bought at our large Tesco that's not allowed.
So I'm having to improvise. I've found an easy way to make a homemade latte if you haven't got a fancy esspresso machine.
We are well into our second week and things are going well. Although you would be surprised at how often you think about buying stuff when you've said you wont. So many sales and special offers.
Why don't you give it a go?
Thursday, 31 August 2006
Seeing a Bigger Picture
I had a great evening the other day. I met up for coffee, talk and chess with a friend of mine, C. I really enjoy getting together with C because he sees things from a different angle to me which I find refreshing, stimulating and challenging.
For instance, one of the subjects we touched on was talking about the geological way the earth was formed. I'm not sure how we got there, but we did and it was interesting. Oh wait, I think I do remember, but it was quite a path of tangents so don't worry about it. Anyway, C was telling me about the way the Mediterranean Sea was possibly formed which involved a fairly considerable portion of the Atlantic Ocean breaking through the point between southern Spain and northern Morocco and filling up the low ground in the Med. While I pondered the creation of beautiful new coastlines, warm waters and a property developers dream, C saw a bigger picture and reflected on the devastating effect on people living in that area. Just imagine your village being approached by such a huge amount of water. What would you do?
On a lighter note, we think we might have come up with a plan for radically altering people's perception of the Church in a positive way. It involved taking Jesus seriously when he told people to see a bigger picture, leave behind material possessions and follow him. It also involved the Catholic Church selling off St Peter's in Rome. All of it. Every brick, every painting, every gold chalice, every silver plate, every everything!.........and then use it to make a huge dent in the problem of world poverty. Can you imagine the knock on effect? Other church traditions would have to respond likewise. The Baptists, Pentecostals, Methodists, Salvationists, Anglicans, Evangelicals, Presbyterians, et al. And then, surely, other world religions would have to get involved too. Maybe even the you. Maybe even me. What would you do?
I've not played chess for ages. I thought maybe I was ok at it. Oh, man I am not! I must have been thinking about when I played against kids. Thankfully C gave me some sound advice, strategy and ideas. You can't just focus on one piece and one move at a time. You've got to see the bigger picture.
For instance, one of the subjects we touched on was talking about the geological way the earth was formed. I'm not sure how we got there, but we did and it was interesting. Oh wait, I think I do remember, but it was quite a path of tangents so don't worry about it. Anyway, C was telling me about the way the Mediterranean Sea was possibly formed which involved a fairly considerable portion of the Atlantic Ocean breaking through the point between southern Spain and northern Morocco and filling up the low ground in the Med. While I pondered the creation of beautiful new coastlines, warm waters and a property developers dream, C saw a bigger picture and reflected on the devastating effect on people living in that area. Just imagine your village being approached by such a huge amount of water. What would you do?
On a lighter note, we think we might have come up with a plan for radically altering people's perception of the Church in a positive way. It involved taking Jesus seriously when he told people to see a bigger picture, leave behind material possessions and follow him. It also involved the Catholic Church selling off St Peter's in Rome. All of it. Every brick, every painting, every gold chalice, every silver plate, every everything!.........and then use it to make a huge dent in the problem of world poverty. Can you imagine the knock on effect? Other church traditions would have to respond likewise. The Baptists, Pentecostals, Methodists, Salvationists, Anglicans, Evangelicals, Presbyterians, et al. And then, surely, other world religions would have to get involved too. Maybe even the you. Maybe even me. What would you do?
I've not played chess for ages. I thought maybe I was ok at it. Oh, man I am not! I must have been thinking about when I played against kids. Thankfully C gave me some sound advice, strategy and ideas. You can't just focus on one piece and one move at a time. You've got to see the bigger picture.
Sunday, 27 August 2006
Coming Soon...
I can't believe it has been nearly a month since I last made a blog posting. Actually, I did try last week, but our computer is suffering from old age and decides to crash every few minutes. (I think it may have something to do with still using Windows 98 and not enough memory for media rich sites - Coming soon...a new computer I hope!)
I was excited to see that there is another coffeeshop coming to our area of Dublin. I, unlike some others, am not bothered in the slightest if more coffeeshops open up on every corner. There is going to be a new Insomnia Coffee Company...coming soon.
The outcome of this will hopefully mean more coffee to drink and inspiration to write.
Coming soon...more blogs!
Hey look, I got to the end without the computer cra
I was excited to see that there is another coffeeshop coming to our area of Dublin. I, unlike some others, am not bothered in the slightest if more coffeeshops open up on every corner. There is going to be a new Insomnia Coffee Company...coming soon.
The outcome of this will hopefully mean more coffee to drink and inspiration to write.
Coming soon...more blogs!
Hey look, I got to the end without the computer cra
Wednesday, 2 August 2006
Toast
Another study day today. I decided that in order to get a decent amount of my latest essay written I should get out of the house and study elsewhere.
I started the morning of at my usual coffeehouse - Moda. Then after lunch I went to the library, but that didn't last too long because the battery in my laptop computer ran out. I felt embarrassed to ask if I could plug in to the mains. They already let you read books for free so I didn't want to take advantage and use their electricity for free too. (By the way, here's my favourite library from the town where my wife and I first lived when we got married - 7 years ago!)
So I decided to break with tradition and go to another coffee house. Ironically it's right next door to my usual and both are opposite the library. I didn't travel far today.
I found a seat with a table that was by a mains supply so I could plug my computer in. I figured if I was paying for coffee it would be alright to literally recharge my batteries. I decided I would leave a tip anyway.
In my studies I came across the early North African Christian theologian, Augustine. I'm not sure how I feel about him. On the one hand he is known by a great name - Augustine of Hippo (see what I mean?), but on the other he sanctioned the violent persecution of believers that were deemed heretical because they questioned the integrity of leaders in the Church. But then again he has some great quotes. Of speaking of God he says,
You have made us for yourself and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you.
I think I might return to this coffeehouse again. I quite like it. The only problem is that it's actually a cafe bar which means there is a kind of funky smell around. (Since the introduction of the smoking ban you'd be amazed at the smell that smoke used to cover up. I wouldn't change it though).
What I liked best about the place was that the building used to be a church. I didn't realise that until today, but looking at it now it makes sense. I'm not sure what kind of church it was. I'll let you know when I find out. It started to get me thinking about how you could creatively "do" church in this space again. I'll let you know about that too.
I asked for a cookie to go with my latte, but they don't serve cookies. I'm not sure if they serve toast there either even though that's the name of the cafe.
I started the morning of at my usual coffeehouse - Moda. Then after lunch I went to the library, but that didn't last too long because the battery in my laptop computer ran out. I felt embarrassed to ask if I could plug in to the mains. They already let you read books for free so I didn't want to take advantage and use their electricity for free too. (By the way, here's my favourite library from the town where my wife and I first lived when we got married - 7 years ago!)
So I decided to break with tradition and go to another coffee house. Ironically it's right next door to my usual and both are opposite the library. I didn't travel far today.
I found a seat with a table that was by a mains supply so I could plug my computer in. I figured if I was paying for coffee it would be alright to literally recharge my batteries. I decided I would leave a tip anyway.
In my studies I came across the early North African Christian theologian, Augustine. I'm not sure how I feel about him. On the one hand he is known by a great name - Augustine of Hippo (see what I mean?), but on the other he sanctioned the violent persecution of believers that were deemed heretical because they questioned the integrity of leaders in the Church. But then again he has some great quotes. Of speaking of God he says,
You have made us for yourself and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you.
I think I might return to this coffeehouse again. I quite like it. The only problem is that it's actually a cafe bar which means there is a kind of funky smell around. (Since the introduction of the smoking ban you'd be amazed at the smell that smoke used to cover up. I wouldn't change it though).
What I liked best about the place was that the building used to be a church. I didn't realise that until today, but looking at it now it makes sense. I'm not sure what kind of church it was. I'll let you know when I find out. It started to get me thinking about how you could creatively "do" church in this space again. I'll let you know about that too.
I asked for a cookie to go with my latte, but they don't serve cookies. I'm not sure if they serve toast there either even though that's the name of the cafe.
Wednesday, 26 July 2006
Curriculum Vitae
I'm doing a distance learning course for a BA in Theology. Because I don't have to attend classes at a college it means I can set up my classroom anywhere. This week was Starbucks (Harcourt). I'm currently studying about radical dissident groups within the early days of the Christian Church. It's quite interesting to read about how the established church labeled these groups heretics because they didn't always go about doing things the "way they should". It seems like within only a couple of hundred years after Christ, his followers moved from the free flowing and Spirit led example of Jesus to become something more like they way you would think of most churches today. Within only a couple of hundred years!!
Anyway, I was enjoying my Tall latte (Starbucks talk for regular) when a lady came into the store, nicely dressed and with a C.V. under her arm, and asked for the manager. It turned out she was there for a job interview. For a short time I toyed with the idea of lining up behind her. I think it might be fun to work there. From what I could gather - I was pretending to read, but actually eavesdropping (I must look up where that crazy word comes from) - pay starts at E8.75 p/h and the coffee is always free! That's way better than free Big Macs if you had to work at Mc D's.
I couldn't catch all the questions that were being asked from the official Starbucks book of questions for complimentary coffee drinker wannabes. Honestly, the manager had a little spiral bound book of questions to ask! I began to guess what the most important features would be in a Starbucks employee. (For a genuine answer click here) I boiled it down to two: Surely you must have to have a love of coffee (right?), and be able to get along with people - customers and staff. It would make the interview process much simpler and far quicker and do away with any nice little spiral bound books. Think about it. Is there any situation that could not ultimately be reduced to those two standards?
I returned to my own world and thought about being a follower of Jesus. What are the bare essentials? How do you take a sack of coffee beans like Christianity and reduce it to a clear cut standard with the kick of an esspreso? It turns out Christ did it already. When he was asked what was most important about his religion he said,
Love the Lord you God with all your heart, and all your soul, and all your strength...
(Then he adds a second standard)
...And love your neighbour like you love yourself.
Love God and love others. Think about it. Is there any situation that could not ultimately be reduced to these two standards? Could it be that simple? Could that be my 'Curriculum Vitae' - my 'Course of Life'? Or should I watch out for the heretic hunters?
Anyway, I was enjoying my Tall latte (Starbucks talk for regular) when a lady came into the store, nicely dressed and with a C.V. under her arm, and asked for the manager. It turned out she was there for a job interview. For a short time I toyed with the idea of lining up behind her. I think it might be fun to work there. From what I could gather - I was pretending to read, but actually eavesdropping (I must look up where that crazy word comes from) - pay starts at E8.75 p/h and the coffee is always free! That's way better than free Big Macs if you had to work at Mc D's.
I couldn't catch all the questions that were being asked from the official Starbucks book of questions for complimentary coffee drinker wannabes. Honestly, the manager had a little spiral bound book of questions to ask! I began to guess what the most important features would be in a Starbucks employee. (For a genuine answer click here) I boiled it down to two: Surely you must have to have a love of coffee (right?), and be able to get along with people - customers and staff. It would make the interview process much simpler and far quicker and do away with any nice little spiral bound books. Think about it. Is there any situation that could not ultimately be reduced to those two standards?
I returned to my own world and thought about being a follower of Jesus. What are the bare essentials? How do you take a sack of coffee beans like Christianity and reduce it to a clear cut standard with the kick of an esspreso? It turns out Christ did it already. When he was asked what was most important about his religion he said,
Love the Lord you God with all your heart, and all your soul, and all your strength...
(Then he adds a second standard)
...And love your neighbour like you love yourself.
Love God and love others. Think about it. Is there any situation that could not ultimately be reduced to these two standards? Could it be that simple? Could that be my 'Curriculum Vitae' - my 'Course of Life'? Or should I watch out for the heretic hunters?
Sunday, 23 July 2006
Starting Young
This weekend we went out as a family to do some shopping. It's always a bit of a hassle to get out of the door with an (almost) two year old toddler and an (almost) three month old baby. But we managed it and upon arrival sought out the nearest coffee shop. It's always fun stopping for coffee with the kids in tow. The days of a relaxed cuppa with my wife are long gone. (But they will be back. Oh yes, they will be back). If you're the kind of person that gets annoyed with small children in a coffee shop then I appologise. There's a good chance we wont meet again so don't worry about it too much. Anyway, the cafe where we stopped positively encouraged the younger customer.
We ordered our drinks. A regular latte for me (of course), an Earl Grey tea for my wife (???), and what for my little girl? I scanned the menu.......... Yes, of course. A Babyccino.
Now before you get all up in arms about me caffeinating my toddler it's only steamed milk with chocolate powder sprinkled on the top. From a distance though it did look just like a cappuccino. I have to admit that I hoped other people in the coffee shop would be shocked, but I didn't see any disapproving glances or hear a single 'tut'. Actually, my daughter only had a couple of spoons of the froth and didn't seem to care for it. Never mind. The whole point of me ordering it was as an excuse to write something for my blog.
By the way, my same daughter currently thinks it is hilarious to hear the word, 'blog'. Even in her uncaffeinated state.
Blog!
We ordered our drinks. A regular latte for me (of course), an Earl Grey tea for my wife (???), and what for my little girl? I scanned the menu.......... Yes, of course. A Babyccino.
Now before you get all up in arms about me caffeinating my toddler it's only steamed milk with chocolate powder sprinkled on the top. From a distance though it did look just like a cappuccino. I have to admit that I hoped other people in the coffee shop would be shocked, but I didn't see any disapproving glances or hear a single 'tut'. Actually, my daughter only had a couple of spoons of the froth and didn't seem to care for it. Never mind. The whole point of me ordering it was as an excuse to write something for my blog.
By the way, my same daughter currently thinks it is hilarious to hear the word, 'blog'. Even in her uncaffeinated state.
Blog!
Wednesday, 19 July 2006
No more imports
Occasionally, when I'm at home, I like to brew for myself a pot of hazelnut flavour coffee - particularly on a Saturday morning with something nice for breakfast. Now I'm not talking about coffee with a dash of flavoured syrup - Yuk! I'm talking about coffee with flavour added to the bean during the roasting process.
I first had a hazelnut coffee at Lakeshore Coffeehouse (I loved that place) when I lived in Cleveland, USA. I remember thinking when I tasted it, this is what coffee should taste like. It's just a little sweeter with a lovely nutty taste. Mmmm, I may go and make some right now and it's only Wednesday.
The reason I ration myself is because you can't get hazelnut coffee around here. I either have to get my wife's family to send me packages and stock up when we're visiting the States.
But, today...! I found some. In a cafe in Clerys of all places, but that doesn't matter. I now know where to restock my supplies.
That's it then. I'm definitely off to put the coffee machine on.
I first had a hazelnut coffee at Lakeshore Coffeehouse (I loved that place) when I lived in Cleveland, USA. I remember thinking when I tasted it, this is what coffee should taste like. It's just a little sweeter with a lovely nutty taste. Mmmm, I may go and make some right now and it's only Wednesday.
The reason I ration myself is because you can't get hazelnut coffee around here. I either have to get my wife's family to send me packages and stock up when we're visiting the States.
But, today...! I found some. In a cafe in Clerys of all places, but that doesn't matter. I now know where to restock my supplies.
That's it then. I'm definitely off to put the coffee machine on.
Monday, 10 July 2006
More coffee than this...
I don't want you to think that just because there are sometimes gaps in time between blogs that I don't actually drink much coffee.
On the contrary. There are times when I think of something coffee related to blog about, but don't actually get around to doing it! I know no one else would know that if I said, "I had a coffee today and..." when actually I'm talking about an experience three weeks ago, but I would know and I can't bring myself to do that. (Although, now that I think about it, you (if there is anyone out there) may not even read this until three weeks in the future so what difference would it make. Maybe I need to re-evaluate this policy).
However, there are also times when I have a regular latte, but don't find anything in particular to write about. Like today for instance. I had to go to a 'coordinating council' meeting at a place where I knew they would only serve instant coffee so I picked up a real coffee on the way to help me through the morning. The meeting was predictably boring, more or less. The occasional light moment, but nothing to write home about. Or on a blog.
I do feel suitably coordinated though.
On the contrary. There are times when I think of something coffee related to blog about, but don't actually get around to doing it! I know no one else would know that if I said, "I had a coffee today and..." when actually I'm talking about an experience three weeks ago, but I would know and I can't bring myself to do that. (Although, now that I think about it, you (if there is anyone out there) may not even read this until three weeks in the future so what difference would it make. Maybe I need to re-evaluate this policy).
However, there are also times when I have a regular latte, but don't find anything in particular to write about. Like today for instance. I had to go to a 'coordinating council' meeting at a place where I knew they would only serve instant coffee so I picked up a real coffee on the way to help me through the morning. The meeting was predictably boring, more or less. The occasional light moment, but nothing to write home about. Or on a blog.
I do feel suitably coordinated though.
Saturday, 24 June 2006
Thin Places
Having the mother-in-law in town has been great! This morning, she and the rest of my family went to Dublin Zoo. I'm not really into zoox (opps - typo. I meant zoos, but zoox is a cool sounding word so I'll leave it in even though it doesn't make sense), so I went off elsewhere in the park to find a cafe and read some more (three days in a row now!)
The reading was good. The latte was too. Made by an Italian guy who, when I asked him where he was from said Cork. I guess he is asked that quite a lot and so decided to be a funny guy. (I heard the same gag said to the man in front of me when I went to pay.) Anyway, he made one of those swirls on top of the froth. I'd like to know how that is done. If it hadn't got busier I'd have asked.
After my coffee I went for a walk in the grounds so I could pray. I'm not very good at praying, but I thought a walk and some music might help. It did. I turned up my mp3 player and listened to Edge Hill by Groove Armada while I stepped into the sunken gardens. There's a beautiful moment in the track where the strings kick in and the music lifts you to another place. I found myself singing and harmonizing and creating heart-language lyrics as I listened to this instrumental piece - all for God's praise and glory.
When ancient monks spent time in prayer, meditation and worship while out in nature there were occasions when a real sense of the presence of God was felt. Like the curtain between this world and eternity was held back a moment as if you could reach out and touch... They called these 'thin places'.
Today, for just a couple of minutes, I think I stumbled into a thin place.
The reading was good. The latte was too. Made by an Italian guy who, when I asked him where he was from said Cork. I guess he is asked that quite a lot and so decided to be a funny guy. (I heard the same gag said to the man in front of me when I went to pay.) Anyway, he made one of those swirls on top of the froth. I'd like to know how that is done. If it hadn't got busier I'd have asked.
After my coffee I went for a walk in the grounds so I could pray. I'm not very good at praying, but I thought a walk and some music might help. It did. I turned up my mp3 player and listened to Edge Hill by Groove Armada while I stepped into the sunken gardens. There's a beautiful moment in the track where the strings kick in and the music lifts you to another place. I found myself singing and harmonizing and creating heart-language lyrics as I listened to this instrumental piece - all for God's praise and glory.
When ancient monks spent time in prayer, meditation and worship while out in nature there were occasions when a real sense of the presence of God was felt. Like the curtain between this world and eternity was held back a moment as if you could reach out and touch... They called these 'thin places'.
Today, for just a couple of minutes, I think I stumbled into a thin place.
Friday, 23 June 2006
Do you save water?
I had an enjoyable hour drinking coffee, reading my book about the message of Jesus (see below) and watching the world go by at the bench cafe in Ballsbridge. (I think I was in Ballsbridge - one of the posher areas of Dublin, anyway. Not far from the beautiful Herbert Park where my wife and children were meeting another mum and toddler.)
I managed to get a seat at a small table outside, right on the main road. Although it was quite loud, it helped me to put my reading in perpective. I couldn't help wondering what people's perception of Jesus Christ was and if they read what I was reading would it alter their view and ultimately their lives? (You really should get a copy of this book!)
A bus went buy with a big poster on the side encouraging people to conserve water. Can people be bothered enough to do just that, I thought, let alone radically transform their worldview through the kingdom of God perspective that Jesus brings? I really hope so. That's what I've dedicated my life to. That's what I long to see happen.
By the way, some of the architecture on Baggot Street is great. Well worth the price of a coffee.
I managed to get a seat at a small table outside, right on the main road. Although it was quite loud, it helped me to put my reading in perpective. I couldn't help wondering what people's perception of Jesus Christ was and if they read what I was reading would it alter their view and ultimately their lives? (You really should get a copy of this book!)
A bus went buy with a big poster on the side encouraging people to conserve water. Can people be bothered enough to do just that, I thought, let alone radically transform their worldview through the kingdom of God perspective that Jesus brings? I really hope so. That's what I've dedicated my life to. That's what I long to see happen.
By the way, some of the architecture on Baggot Street is great. Well worth the price of a coffee.
Thursday, 22 June 2006
Deeper Meaning
My mother-in-law is staying with us at the moment which gave me an opportunity to go out for coffee. Wahooo!
I went to my local coffeehouse and took a few minutes to look at the art work that was for sale on the walls. It's alright (just). A bit abstract. Some of the images made sense while others, perhaps, had a deeper meaning to the splashes of oil on canvass. I guess I just didn't get it.
Most people don't get Jesus either, according to Brian McLaren. I'm reading his latest book, The Secret Message of Jesus. I've read some of McLaren's other work and met him recently at a seminar. I like what he has to say. I think I'm going to enjoy this one as well.
For quite a while now I've felt like I wanted to know Jesus better. Discover new insights and learn what it really means to be a radical follower of this first century political, social and religious revolutionary.
The basic premise of the book is that for hundreds of years the Church has packaged Jesus in a particular way which is faithful to some aspects of his life, teaching and mission, but has fallen short on the fact that living life the Jesus way is about truly changing an individual's life - or even the life of a city, country or the world.
I like the way McLaren reminds the reader that Jesus didn't come to start a new religion (Christianity), but to tell people about the Kingdom of God - a way of experiencing fullness of life not just for eternity, but something that is within reach now. Today!
There is so much more to Jesus than the short glance we often give him.
"The time has come. The kingdom of God is near"
- Jesus (Mark 1:15)
I went to my local coffeehouse and took a few minutes to look at the art work that was for sale on the walls. It's alright (just). A bit abstract. Some of the images made sense while others, perhaps, had a deeper meaning to the splashes of oil on canvass. I guess I just didn't get it.
Most people don't get Jesus either, according to Brian McLaren. I'm reading his latest book, The Secret Message of Jesus. I've read some of McLaren's other work and met him recently at a seminar. I like what he has to say. I think I'm going to enjoy this one as well.
For quite a while now I've felt like I wanted to know Jesus better. Discover new insights and learn what it really means to be a radical follower of this first century political, social and religious revolutionary.
The basic premise of the book is that for hundreds of years the Church has packaged Jesus in a particular way which is faithful to some aspects of his life, teaching and mission, but has fallen short on the fact that living life the Jesus way is about truly changing an individual's life - or even the life of a city, country or the world.
I like the way McLaren reminds the reader that Jesus didn't come to start a new religion (Christianity), but to tell people about the Kingdom of God - a way of experiencing fullness of life not just for eternity, but something that is within reach now. Today!
There is so much more to Jesus than the short glance we often give him.
"The time has come. The kingdom of God is near"
- Jesus (Mark 1:15)
Wednesday, 14 June 2006
Desperate for Coffee
Sorry I've not written for a while, but life has changed (once again). Six weeks ago we celebrated the birth of our second child, a boy! Needless to say, finding the time to go out for coffee, let alone write about it, just hasn't happened. That's ok. He's more than worth the lack of sleep and access to a regular latte.
Things are starting to settle down a little bit now so perhaps I'll be writing again soon...
Things are starting to settle down a little bit now so perhaps I'll be writing again soon...
Saturday, 15 April 2006
Postmodern Vampirism
I met a fascinating woman the other night at my local coffeehouse. I got chatting to S. while she was waiting for people to come to her table to have their tarrot read. It wasn't long before we started talking about spiritual matters. S. asked me about the book I was reading (The Post Evangelical) so I explained a little bit about the journey of faith that I am on in discovering what it means to be a Christian in the 21st century. Soon she was telling me about her spiritual journey and how, since she was 14, she has followed the religion of Wicca.
Now wicca is pretty far removed from Christianity - even to my generous orthodoxy. But when someone is keen to talk about spirituality then I'm keen to listen and share a little of what I believe.
My first thought about wicca was that it has something to do with witches. If that is true then S. seemed awfully nice for being a witch. (Maybe they don't really fly around on broomsticks with an ugly look on their face accompanied by a scrawny cat as I thought). Anyway, S. was quick to tell me that she wasn't in a coven, but just practiced wicca on her own. I couldn't help thinking about all the people I've met who would say the same thing about Christianity. Well, not the coven bit. I'm talking about Christian spirituality without attending church.
S. teaches at the moment while she is studying for her doctorate in, yes you've guessed it, 'Postmodern Vampirism'. I was surprised that vampires suffered from the strains of the cultural shift that is postmodernism, but apparently they do. I was actually more surprised that there would be enough research material in the world to study this topic at PhD level. (I should maybe google it).
One of the main features of Wicca and a big difference I saw with regard to a Christian spirituality was the wiccan acknowledgement of god in nature. For the wiccan a stone or a tree or a river is worthy of worship itself as that component of nature is a god. For me, I see and experience the incredible beauty in nature which leads me to the Higher Beauty - the Creator God of all things beautiful: Stones, trees, rivers, S. and me.
Now wicca is pretty far removed from Christianity - even to my generous orthodoxy. But when someone is keen to talk about spirituality then I'm keen to listen and share a little of what I believe.
My first thought about wicca was that it has something to do with witches. If that is true then S. seemed awfully nice for being a witch. (Maybe they don't really fly around on broomsticks with an ugly look on their face accompanied by a scrawny cat as I thought). Anyway, S. was quick to tell me that she wasn't in a coven, but just practiced wicca on her own. I couldn't help thinking about all the people I've met who would say the same thing about Christianity. Well, not the coven bit. I'm talking about Christian spirituality without attending church.
S. teaches at the moment while she is studying for her doctorate in, yes you've guessed it, 'Postmodern Vampirism'. I was surprised that vampires suffered from the strains of the cultural shift that is postmodernism, but apparently they do. I was actually more surprised that there would be enough research material in the world to study this topic at PhD level. (I should maybe google it).
One of the main features of Wicca and a big difference I saw with regard to a Christian spirituality was the wiccan acknowledgement of god in nature. For the wiccan a stone or a tree or a river is worthy of worship itself as that component of nature is a god. For me, I see and experience the incredible beauty in nature which leads me to the Higher Beauty - the Creator God of all things beautiful: Stones, trees, rivers, S. and me.
Thursday, 13 April 2006
Mission Accomplished
I did it! I've visited every Starbucks in the Republic of Ireland - all four of them!!!
Yesterday, while out buying last minute supplies (like a cot!) for the baby that is about to arrive anytime now, I got a regular latte from the store in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. It was its usual, predictable, slightly over-priced, good cup of coffee. I smiled as I drank it.
To be honest it has actually given me a small piece of satisfaction in achieving a small goal. Maybe you should try it too?
Yesterday, while out buying last minute supplies (like a cot!) for the baby that is about to arrive anytime now, I got a regular latte from the store in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. It was its usual, predictable, slightly over-priced, good cup of coffee. I smiled as I drank it.
To be honest it has actually given me a small piece of satisfaction in achieving a small goal. Maybe you should try it too?
Sunday, 9 April 2006
Bad Coffee, Good Company
Big things in life tend to not bother me too much. For some reason it's the small things that annoy me.
Last night I had an awful cup of coffee. I ordered a regular latte from the Riatzza cafe in Dun Laoghaire and it was just bad. Now, I'm no coffee connoisseur, but I can tell a bad cup of coffee when I taste one. I'm not even talking about an instant coffee which you just expect to be bad - this was a "freshly brewed" cup. I think maybe the grounds were burnt or something 'cause it just tasted nasty and I ended up throwing it away - all three euro worth of it! I was really annoyed. I should have gone back and complained.
Fortunately I was out on a date with my wife so I wasn't going to let a cup of coffee spoil my evening. With a toddler and another baby on the way we don't get out much :-(
I wound up sharing my wife's hot chocolate as we sat in the car with the windows open, listening to the sea lap at the shore.
Beautiful.
Last night I had an awful cup of coffee. I ordered a regular latte from the Riatzza cafe in Dun Laoghaire and it was just bad. Now, I'm no coffee connoisseur, but I can tell a bad cup of coffee when I taste one. I'm not even talking about an instant coffee which you just expect to be bad - this was a "freshly brewed" cup. I think maybe the grounds were burnt or something 'cause it just tasted nasty and I ended up throwing it away - all three euro worth of it! I was really annoyed. I should have gone back and complained.
Fortunately I was out on a date with my wife so I wasn't going to let a cup of coffee spoil my evening. With a toddler and another baby on the way we don't get out much :-(
I wound up sharing my wife's hot chocolate as we sat in the car with the windows open, listening to the sea lap at the shore.
Beautiful.
Wednesday, 29 March 2006
Together Alone
So I'm sitting in Moda tonight drinking a latte and reading a book. As usual I glance around from time to time just to see what's happening. Nothing much.
Then I noticed something different. You know how you only really notice things when they've changed or are different or out of place? Well sitting around me at tables or on sofas were small groups of people, in two or threes, drinking coffee or eating a meal while chatting and laughing together. All normal, expected sights and sounds. But it was the couple sitting opposite me that caught my attention. They were probably in their mid-twenties. She had a couple of bags from shopping and he was wearing a tie. They must have arrived just before me because they were ordering some food as I was taking a seat on the sofa that has been broken for at least four weeks. Here's why I noticed them. Apart from placing and then changing their order I hardly heard or saw them talk anymore. They just seemed to sit and eat their meal together alone.
I thought this was kind of sad.
They didn't seem to be upset or angry with each other. They just didn't seem to talk much. Now I'm not one for great communication skills, but I wished the guy had at least asked the girl how her meal was or offered her a taste of his.
I like the idea in post-modern theology that seeks to find something sacred in sharing a meal with people. It's so much more than just eating food. It's about being in community, in common union, in communion.
Some churches share bread and wine as powerful symbols of Christ's death. In our form of church we like to share a meal and seek the presence of God in this common act.
God help me to never let people feel alone when I am with them.
Then I noticed something different. You know how you only really notice things when they've changed or are different or out of place? Well sitting around me at tables or on sofas were small groups of people, in two or threes, drinking coffee or eating a meal while chatting and laughing together. All normal, expected sights and sounds. But it was the couple sitting opposite me that caught my attention. They were probably in their mid-twenties. She had a couple of bags from shopping and he was wearing a tie. They must have arrived just before me because they were ordering some food as I was taking a seat on the sofa that has been broken for at least four weeks. Here's why I noticed them. Apart from placing and then changing their order I hardly heard or saw them talk anymore. They just seemed to sit and eat their meal together alone.
I thought this was kind of sad.
They didn't seem to be upset or angry with each other. They just didn't seem to talk much. Now I'm not one for great communication skills, but I wished the guy had at least asked the girl how her meal was or offered her a taste of his.
I like the idea in post-modern theology that seeks to find something sacred in sharing a meal with people. It's so much more than just eating food. It's about being in community, in common union, in communion.
Some churches share bread and wine as powerful symbols of Christ's death. In our form of church we like to share a meal and seek the presence of God in this common act.
God help me to never let people feel alone when I am with them.
Tuesday, 21 March 2006
The High School
About once a month I do morning assembly at 'The High School' in Rathgar. I have to say that I really enjoy it. It's one of my favourite areas of ministry. I pretty much just do a short thought for the day to try and relate some aspect of God or the Christian faith to life, but I find it an immense privilege. The students are great.
Anyway, today for my thought I mentioned this blog and shamelessly promoted the address. I have this feeling that no one else reads my blogs (except for my wife) so I used the thought of feeling like no one notices you - but God does.
Here's a great verse from Psalm 8
"When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him?"
I'm doing the assembly again for the junior half of the school. We'll see if anyone notices...
Anyway, today for my thought I mentioned this blog and shamelessly promoted the address. I have this feeling that no one else reads my blogs (except for my wife) so I used the thought of feeling like no one notices you - but God does.
Here's a great verse from Psalm 8
"When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him?"
I'm doing the assembly again for the junior half of the school. We'll see if anyone notices...
Thursday, 16 March 2006
Killing Birds
I went to the supermarket tonight to so some grocery shopping. I don't particularly enjoy this experience at the best of times, but especially when it's raining. Even more so when the store is busy.
I asked the girl at the checkout if it was usually this busy on a Thursday. She said it wasn't, but suggested that people might have thought that they would be closed tomorrow for St Patrick's Day. They won't be. In fact the only saint they close for is Stephen (Dec. 26), plus Jesus for Christmas and Easter - although I did detect a slight uncertainty in the girl's voice about why they close for Easter.
Speaking of which, there were plenty of Easter Eggs on display. I need to start thinking about which one I'd like this year for our celebration on "Chocolate Day" - a little family tradition on Easter Monday. I did overhear someone saying that they had always wished that the Cadbury Creme Egg easter eggs where giant size creme eggs instead of just hollow. I don't think they were the only one...am I right?
While I was picking up some flour (my wife bakes such delicious goodies), someone else was getting excited about seeing a Bob the Builder cup cake mix. They hadn't had a Bob the Builder cake for years (!) and decided to get the packet. I turned around to see two college age students doing their weekly shop. Being a college student is great. The freedom from home, but also the freedom to still be a bit childish.
What has any of this got to do with coffee?
Well, in the shopping centre that houses the supermarket there is also a Starbucks which I have yet to go to. So I decided to kill two birds with one stone and drink coffee while getting the groceries. That's another Starbucks off my list. In fact it was the first Starbucks to arrive in Dublin, but I hadn't gone in until now. Usually there is a long queue and I draw the line at doing that just for a coffee.
As I strolled the aisles of Tesco it made me feel different than everybody else - slightly sophisticated I thought. It was like everyone was thinking, darn, I wish I had got a coffee to help with my shopping.
TIP: Shopping trolleys don't have cup holders as a standard feature, but I discovered an alternative. The child seat.
I asked the girl at the checkout if it was usually this busy on a Thursday. She said it wasn't, but suggested that people might have thought that they would be closed tomorrow for St Patrick's Day. They won't be. In fact the only saint they close for is Stephen (Dec. 26), plus Jesus for Christmas and Easter - although I did detect a slight uncertainty in the girl's voice about why they close for Easter.
Speaking of which, there were plenty of Easter Eggs on display. I need to start thinking about which one I'd like this year for our celebration on "Chocolate Day" - a little family tradition on Easter Monday. I did overhear someone saying that they had always wished that the Cadbury Creme Egg easter eggs where giant size creme eggs instead of just hollow. I don't think they were the only one...am I right?
While I was picking up some flour (my wife bakes such delicious goodies), someone else was getting excited about seeing a Bob the Builder cup cake mix. They hadn't had a Bob the Builder cake for years (!) and decided to get the packet. I turned around to see two college age students doing their weekly shop. Being a college student is great. The freedom from home, but also the freedom to still be a bit childish.
What has any of this got to do with coffee?
Well, in the shopping centre that houses the supermarket there is also a Starbucks which I have yet to go to. So I decided to kill two birds with one stone and drink coffee while getting the groceries. That's another Starbucks off my list. In fact it was the first Starbucks to arrive in Dublin, but I hadn't gone in until now. Usually there is a long queue and I draw the line at doing that just for a coffee.
As I strolled the aisles of Tesco it made me feel different than everybody else - slightly sophisticated I thought. It was like everyone was thinking, darn, I wish I had got a coffee to help with my shopping.
TIP: Shopping trolleys don't have cup holders as a standard feature, but I discovered an alternative. The child seat.
Wednesday, 8 March 2006
Looking to the Side
I went to Coffee Society tonight in the next "suburb" over. It's a small coffeehouse with just a few tables including some outside on the main street and a couple out back which mostly seat smokers. (I love the public indoor smoking ban in Ireland. You really notice a difference.)
There are only two armchairs, but they were both empty which was good. What was not so good, however, was the Apple and Five Spice muffin. Dry.
To read I took along 'The Jesus Creed' by Scot McKnight. It's ok. It's a book about spiritual formation around the commandment of Jesus to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbour. A very good creed to live by - it boils religion down to a minimum, but with the potential for huge impact.
I liked the phrase that McKnight uses for community and social action. Referring to the story of the Good Samaritan he writes that we should be "looking to the side" for an opportunity to serve people in need in acts of neighbourly love. We see the ministry that my wife and I lead as very much neighbourhood based. McKnight presented a good reminder that "our home is also in our neighbourhood." We shouldn't neglect service and ministry under our own roof.
I'm sure I'll comment more on this book again. I drove home praying for my neighbourhood and community, asking God to show me people with needs.
There are only two armchairs, but they were both empty which was good. What was not so good, however, was the Apple and Five Spice muffin. Dry.
To read I took along 'The Jesus Creed' by Scot McKnight. It's ok. It's a book about spiritual formation around the commandment of Jesus to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbour. A very good creed to live by - it boils religion down to a minimum, but with the potential for huge impact.
I liked the phrase that McKnight uses for community and social action. Referring to the story of the Good Samaritan he writes that we should be "looking to the side" for an opportunity to serve people in need in acts of neighbourly love. We see the ministry that my wife and I lead as very much neighbourhood based. McKnight presented a good reminder that "our home is also in our neighbourhood." We shouldn't neglect service and ministry under our own roof.
I'm sure I'll comment more on this book again. I drove home praying for my neighbourhood and community, asking God to show me people with needs.
Sunday, 5 March 2006
Coffee to go
I haven't published a post recently as I have been aware for a little while. My wife and I (and our daughter) were over in England for a conference for a few days. We also took the opportunity to visit my family and friends and drink some coffee.
Some of the memorable locations for coffee and talking included:
Some of the memorable locations for coffee and talking included:
- Complementary coffee from the (free!) upgrade lounge on the ferry crossing.
- The Tea Rooms at Hampton Court catching up with some good friends (although most of the catching up was me chasing my daughter around the tables apologizing to other customers).
- In a Travelodge room with my wife and daughter.
- At a cafe in the underground shopping area of Canary Warf in London.
- At the Starbucks in Borders bookshop (what a great combination) while my parents were babysitting and my wife and I looked through books of baby names.
- And, perhaps most memorable of all for good and bad reasons, the Krispy Kreme cafe in Bluewater shopping centre. Bad because it got wrapped up in a painful twenty minute (unscheduled) separation from my unresourced wife and full bladdered daughter. Good because...well you really have to have a Krispy Kreme doughnut fresh from the conveyor belt to understand.
Friday, 17 February 2006
At the Village Cafe
I had a most enjoyable time today eating lunch and drinking coffee with 'D'. We met at the Village Cafe and spent a couple of hours together talking about many things - except for perhaps the most obvious topic.
'D' is connected to an area of our ministry and I have always enjoyed talking and listening to him. The other day we made arrangements to meet in town for lunch today. I'm not sure how old 'D' is. Probably somewhere in his late seventies. For the latter half of his life he has been involved in drama in its various forms - film, TV, theatre. He has been part of a touring theatre company, directed and produced plays, had a number of roles in films staring alongside some big names, and even made a few appearances in 'Father Ted'!
We talked about some of the films he liked and about Irish poets and travel and Shakespeare. 'D' has also written a few poems in his time. I'd like to read a few of his poems. He said it would give him an excuse to organize them and he would dig them out. I can't help wondering about "hidden works of art" that there must be in other people I've come to know. It would be nice to do something to draw these out of people, especially my elderly acquaintances.
I wish I could have spent longer with 'D', but I needed to get on. As we parted company 'D' shook my hand and gave me an affectionate knock on the arm. I think he appreciated the time as much as I did. We made some tentative plans to meet again soon and play some chess.
Although I offered him a lift home, 'D' decided the walk would do him good. His next appointment this afternoon was at St Lukes for another dose of radiotherapy.
'D' is connected to an area of our ministry and I have always enjoyed talking and listening to him. The other day we made arrangements to meet in town for lunch today. I'm not sure how old 'D' is. Probably somewhere in his late seventies. For the latter half of his life he has been involved in drama in its various forms - film, TV, theatre. He has been part of a touring theatre company, directed and produced plays, had a number of roles in films staring alongside some big names, and even made a few appearances in 'Father Ted'!
We talked about some of the films he liked and about Irish poets and travel and Shakespeare. 'D' has also written a few poems in his time. I'd like to read a few of his poems. He said it would give him an excuse to organize them and he would dig them out. I can't help wondering about "hidden works of art" that there must be in other people I've come to know. It would be nice to do something to draw these out of people, especially my elderly acquaintances.
I wish I could have spent longer with 'D', but I needed to get on. As we parted company 'D' shook my hand and gave me an affectionate knock on the arm. I think he appreciated the time as much as I did. We made some tentative plans to meet again soon and play some chess.
Although I offered him a lift home, 'D' decided the walk would do him good. His next appointment this afternoon was at St Lukes for another dose of radiotherapy.
Thursday, 16 February 2006
A (not very) Ambitious Goal
I once read about an ambitious man who had a goal of visiting every Starbucks coffeehouse in the USA. I can't see how he did it as there must be more opening all the time.
It has inspired me, however, to set a similar goal here in Ireland. I hereby declare my intentions to visit every Starbucks in the Republic of Ireland!
Umm...ok, so there's actually only four at the moment, but I've been to two so I'm half way there already. I'll keep you posted.
I went to Starbucks (Harcourt) to spend an hour studying for an essay I'm writing about the mission of the Church in post-modern culture. I didn't get an awful lot done as my seat by the window allowed me to get distracted by the world as it went by.
I did enjoy my blueberry muffin and fair trade coffee. For all people say about Starbucks I do appreciate them serving fair trade coffee as a regular feature. I'm a keen supporter of Fair Trade.
While I was reading, a woman came in and stood just inside the door talking on the phone in quite a loud and upset manner. It seemed a business deal was about to go down the tubes. She did have the courtesy to step back outside to finish the conversation and I couldn't help watching her from my window view. (Who wouldn't?!) It did make me grateful for the life and career that I have that shouldn't lead to too many stressed phone calls on the run. I like my life!
My wife and daughter showed up shortly afterwards from their trip into the city, but only came in for about a minute when we were all informed that they were going to do a routine emergency evacuation that is standard practice every six months. I thought this was strange as they only opened two weeks ago.
It has inspired me, however, to set a similar goal here in Ireland. I hereby declare my intentions to visit every Starbucks in the Republic of Ireland!
Umm...ok, so there's actually only four at the moment, but I've been to two so I'm half way there already. I'll keep you posted.
I went to Starbucks (Harcourt) to spend an hour studying for an essay I'm writing about the mission of the Church in post-modern culture. I didn't get an awful lot done as my seat by the window allowed me to get distracted by the world as it went by.
I did enjoy my blueberry muffin and fair trade coffee. For all people say about Starbucks I do appreciate them serving fair trade coffee as a regular feature. I'm a keen supporter of Fair Trade.
While I was reading, a woman came in and stood just inside the door talking on the phone in quite a loud and upset manner. It seemed a business deal was about to go down the tubes. She did have the courtesy to step back outside to finish the conversation and I couldn't help watching her from my window view. (Who wouldn't?!) It did make me grateful for the life and career that I have that shouldn't lead to too many stressed phone calls on the run. I like my life!
My wife and daughter showed up shortly afterwards from their trip into the city, but only came in for about a minute when we were all informed that they were going to do a routine emergency evacuation that is standard practice every six months. I thought this was strange as they only opened two weeks ago.
Tuesday, 14 February 2006
Empire 201
Usually I walk to Moda. It only takes about 10 mins and is a good opportunity to spend some time thinking, praying, listening to my mp3 player, or just smiling at people coming the other way. But tonight it was pouring down with rain so I decided to drive. I still got pretty wet just walking from the car to the coffeehouse. (I need to find out if it is ok to park outside Moda after 7:00pm)
I took along the latest issue of Empire (movie magazine). Looks like some good movies coming out over the next few months: mission:Impossible 3; Sunshine (sci-fi film. My wife will hate it, but I think I'll enjoy it. Looks like a similar genre to 2001/Solaris - great movies); a couple of films about 9/11; Pirates of the Caribbean 2; The Da Vinci Code (??? - I need to try and finish that book). The main feature was a list of the 201 best films of all time as voted by the readers (except for me). Maybe I should have voted because my all time favourite film, Star Wars came in 4th. Number 1 was The Shawshank Redemption - a good movie right enough.
I've seen just over half of the movies in the list which isn't bad going, but leaves some catching up to do. Some of the ones that stood out for me where:
I took along the latest issue of Empire (movie magazine). Looks like some good movies coming out over the next few months: mission:Impossible 3; Sunshine (sci-fi film. My wife will hate it, but I think I'll enjoy it. Looks like a similar genre to 2001/Solaris - great movies); a couple of films about 9/11; Pirates of the Caribbean 2; The Da Vinci Code (??? - I need to try and finish that book). The main feature was a list of the 201 best films of all time as voted by the readers (except for me). Maybe I should have voted because my all time favourite film, Star Wars came in 4th. Number 1 was The Shawshank Redemption - a good movie right enough.
I've seen just over half of the movies in the list which isn't bad going, but leaves some catching up to do. Some of the ones that stood out for me where:
- The Truman Show (154)
- Cinema Paradiso (128)
- Hero (125)
- The Blues Brothers (101)
- Moulin Rouge (61)
- American Beauty (51)
- The Matrix (10)
- Fight Club (8)
- and, of course, Star Wars (4)
There are a good few films in the list that I'd like to see, including:
- Fargo (120)
- Brazil (114) - I think I have that on tape somewhere??
- Cool Hand Luke (77) - someone recommended this to me just last week.
- Lawrence of Arabia (31)
- Alien (14)
- The Godfather (5) - I can't believe I haven't seem any of this trilogy!
It was raining even harder when I left Moda, but I promised my wife I'd get her a packet of Fruit Pastiles. I got soaked in the process, but it is Valentines Day.
Monday, 13 February 2006
Views from a Coffeehouse
So I was sitting in one of my local coffeehouses a couple of weeks ago when I stopped what I was doing and looked around:
The woman in the sofa next to me was quite well dressed, had made an order for a cappuccino, was talking on the phone in quite a posh accent and was reading a cheapy tabloid - which I thought was a little out of character. Across from me was another woman who had ordered something vegetarian and looked like she was waiting for someone else to arrive. They were either late or stood her up - either way she left as soon as she finished eating. A third woman across and to my left (there were guys, but they all seemed to walk through my seating area and outside to smoke) drank a second cup of tea while she opened the wrapping on what looked like a new journal notebook. After a few moments of looking around she started to make an entry.
I couldn't help wondering what she was writing about...was it us?
That's when I got the idea that it might be fun to write a few reflections on thoughts that I have while at a coffeehouse. It will probably be about people watching, inspiration from books I'm reading, conversations with other customers or staff, the music that is being played, the art work on the walls, aspects of my developing theology or the view from the coffeehouse window. I may even record experiences outside the coffeehouse like walking down the street or chatting at a kitchen table. The common thread will be coffee in some shape or form.
Enjoy...
"God saw all that he had made, [including the coffee bean] and it was very good."
Genesis 1:31
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