31 May 2007

Lynchtasm

I've been spending more time exploring the goodness that is canned coffee of Japan, only to find that there are TWO JAPANESE DAVID LYNCH/TWIN PEAKS commercials for Georgia canned coffee (coca-cola brand for all you know-nothin's). Observe:




DAMN that's good coffee!

24 May 2007

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.

21 May 2007

octet love

Still feeling a little ill from last night's post-meeting debauchery, but nevertheless it was pure success. Not only is everyone at the 'Tane now in-the-know, but I feel like everyone is uber-excited and revamped to be a part of this. There was this weird bonding that happened when Cat and Bobb got out their cameras and started shooting. It was a huge family photo that went ape shit as Spencer's wasted 110 pound ass basked in the rays of the camera lens... photos will come soon, I imagine.

We even got both Tony and Diane to take a Whiskey/Pickle.

Oh and it was just especially great to go out with the crew afterwards to El Myr. Lots of Boris on the jukebox and whiskey shots. Kind of one of the most amazing combos ever.

EDIT: Bobb's photos

20 May 2007

It is happening for the first time

The best part about our house is the trains that pass by regularly throughout the day. Both the commuter rail (MARTA) and the cargo rail lines are in front of our home, allowing for a seemingly urban environment despite the "Leaving Atlanta" sign just a few yards up the road. Sometimes I lay on the couch watching the trains run through the window frames as if I am watching an extended take in an Ozu film. The trains in his films are only a facet of what lures me to them, but most of all they beg me to go back to Japan.

Since my visit in March of 2006, I have only fantasized on a daily basis as to how I could possibly return to Japan--and not just to visit, but to reside there. I toyed with the idea of graduate school, but my Japanese is not yet strong enough. Then there was JET or NOVA. Every other undergraduate student in their senior year entertains teaching in Japan, but I wanted something more than just teaching for 6 months or a year. Something either more permanent or at least allowed the possibility of an extended stay.

So the question remained: how do I take something I am passionate for and find a career in Japan that will allow me to stay there and excel in my skill? Well, David Lamonte of Counter Culture Coffee gave me the answer I was looking for. Through conversation behind the bar at Octane, David offered his help in making this happen by emailing a friend of his who owns a specialty shop in Fukuoka City on Kyushu island. Mr. Izaki, who owns Honey Coffee, has offered to teach me both how to speak Japanese AND roast coffee!!! The idea is nothing short of a dream, and I can only hope this one comes true (okay, that's about as cheesy as I can get). There isn't much more to say on this except I need to wait and see if Mr. Izaki is for real about this exchange. If that's the case, I finish school in December and will get on a plane the first day I can.

Hell yes.