1. I am skipping a cupping right now because I drank way, way too many cups of coffee (and bits of cups of coffee) at work this morning. So much as I want to try that microlot of Golondrina... I wouldn't be able to enjoy it. I'm all hopped up and stomach-achey. It is not fun. Sorry, Aaron. Next Friday we will better police my caffeine intake before the cupping.
2. I have a name for both our coffee book club and perhaps my future website. I'd go ahead and shout it to the rooftops now, I am going to selfishly hoard it instead. What if one of you (lovely) internet creeps decided to steal it? I'd have to kill you, and murder is terribly messy. Let's just say that it perfectly combines both my love for the written word and for espresso and leave it at that. You'll find out soon enough, if all goes as planned.
3. Last night was my very first Philadelphia Thursday Night Throwdown (TNT). There seemed like there was a good turnout -- about 25 people, but I have no frame of reference as to whether or not that is "good" since I haven't been before -- and the competition was so interesting to watch. Regardless of how seriously you take such informal competition, it is, first and foremost, a competition. It being my first, I wanted to merely attend and take in the atmosphere. I didn't even know how such things were run, prior to last night. Now I think I mostly get it, and I will plan to do my own pour in December. As for last night's top competitor, it was my very own boss-man, Aaron Ultimo. He went first of 12 and still managed to finish with the highest score. Well done, well done.
I'm very glad I attended: I met some new friends, spoke with some old friends and co-workers, and solidified some meetings that occurred at work (a.k.a. refreshed my memory on names, I'm the worst at that). I also got to check out another Philly Counter Culture shop, Lovers & Madmen. I adore that name and the shop is pretty cute. I dig the cozy couches, windowed walls, and the brown/blue color scheme.
4. As for my own growth towards "coffee professional," well... I'm growing. The motions are becoming a part of my muscle memory, I'm learning what a good shot and the perfect milk feel like, in addition to their looks (with which I was already familiar). I can do great pours -- and I still pour some absolute crap from time to time. As with the past week or so, my primary focus is continuity, reliability, and refinement of skills. Our shop is a great atmosphere for someone who wants to really, really learn and perfect this art. I know I am not the first to flourish under Aaron's tutelage, so I doubt I'll be the last, but I feel pretty grateful for the insight and guidance he offers.
Aaaand some pictures from the TNT:
Aaron, tamping his shot.
Cool as a cucumber.
Judges, doing their thing.
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