 | | |
|
|
Where everyone knows your name |
|
|
|
11/15/2011 11:35:58 AM |
 |
|
 I love watching Cheers reruns on TV. It’s one of those classic shows where the characters are familiar and you look forward to finding out what will happen to them next. But I have to say the opening song where it talks about going somewhere where everyone knows your name always reminds me of a job I had a few years back.
I worked at Jackie’s Java (it’s now Devine Grounds Coffee) at the junction where 101 meets Highway 26 for two years. I had a full time job but wanted a little extra income so I worked mornings at the little drive through coffee hut. Being a barista is a great part time job! It’s the kind you can come to work and work hard but leave the work behind at the end of your shift.
I loved working there! It’s actually much bigger on the inside that it appears and it was fun to learn all about making quality coffee for people. The best part, hands down, was meeting people. I loved getting to know the customers that came through and ordered lattes, blended drinks and just a regular cup of drip coffee. Of course there were many visitors that drove through on their way in or out of town but the regulars that came through every time I worked were my favorite customers of all!
Now coffee is a tricky business. People who drink coffee depend on getting a quality product to help them get through their morning. So when I was first starting out the regulars were nice but a little weary of a new person serving them their coffee drink. Once I learned their particular drink (and everyone has a particular drink), their name and regularly greeted them with a smile they became loyal friends. It was so nice to see familiar faces pull up to the window and (depending on how long the line was at the time) have a few minutes to find out how their day was going.
Working at the coffee shop and getting to know people was just a tiny version of what it’s like to live at the beach. I love walking through town or going into shops and running into people I know. Like being able to get your perfect and particular coffee drink (I like a decaf soy caramel latte) there’s something wonderful about being part of a community where you feel welcome, wanted and everyone knows your name.
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| | |
