little fish in a giant mug of coffee.

Or, as Pete said in Twin Peaks, "There was a fish... in... the percolator!"

More emails are rolling in from Mr. Izaki from Honey Coffee. I'm quickly realizing the differences in the coffee industry between Japan and the States. Coffee Boss M'Lissa and my other CCC partners in crime are my main sources of info on the subject right now, but even after flipping through some notable blogs, I realize I have a ways to go. Not only am I going to be willingly cramming info about stateside coffee shops, but now I am going to actually take part in Japanese coffee industry. This is a huge deal to wrap my mind around-- an opportunity that I've found myself obsessing over since I left Japan last year. Despite the grandiosity of my goals, I've been second-guessing myself in my decision to leave what is most comfortable in exchange for a completely new and invigorating experience.

For once I have a sense of belonging and family. I know this city and I love the people I'm surrounded by. Dave set my mind at peace last night in a more than inspiring way, reminding me of why he's in Atlanta in the first place. The parallels in our lives are uncanny, and I can't help but look at what he left behind in NY in exchange for this. It's time to move on.

Back to Japan v. US in the world of coffee, or KO-HE as I should be referring to it. Canned coffee has been ruling the Japanese market for a good time now. It's available at the store and in vending machines, already warm. But it's no french press or even Starbucks drip. This shit is like Quick Trip french vanilla super hazelnut blend. Disgusting, but I drank it regularly. I'll even occasionally buy it at the Asian markets here in Atlanta just to bring back some sweet after-bath-house memories. Just came across this; quite possibly the combination of everything ruling my life right now:



Anyway, Chris from Counter Culture is giving me some more training today before my shift at Octane. I will own the bar tonight.