Tag: Michigan

Writer in Residence

I’m planted in a comfy chair. Sitting at my writer’s desk, I try not to slouch as I strategically reconstruct the finest details of Janet’s life. I attack her biography as if I had won a coveted position as a writer in residence, focused only on finishing her story. Sunshine comes streaming in through the …

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Coffee Shop Chronicles: Coffee, books and the end of an era

Borders Bookstore Canton, MI April 2011 I came here because I have a coupon. The coupon is for 33% off one item or 20% off your entire purchase.  I’m upstairs sampling the vanilla bean loaf, and there’s this weird aftertaste.  The black tea is helping only so much.  I’m glad I have a peanut butter …

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Coffee Shop Chronicles: The Details of People

Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company Detroit, MI July 2015 Here I am. How dependent we are on our electronic devices. I love that the baristas here write names on the for-here mug.  I feel personalized.  I’m drinking the Brazil, so this reminds me what cuppa of coffee to get next : this or try something new. …

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Up from Under the Bridge, Eh?

Pure Michigan campaign ads had persuaded trolls—residents of Michigan’s lower peninsula, like me—to crawl out from our homes south of the Mackinac Bridge. It was Labor Day weekend, the last chance for many families to head up north before the start of a new school year. For my family, this was the perfect time to explore the …

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Coffee Shop Chronicles, Father’s Day edition: Saying goodbye

Starbucks Rt. 40, Delaware April 2006 Last week, I hugged Roomie down in Maryland, and that’s when it hit me: I’m saying goodbye. I almost cried. I’m moving soon, so it’s time for those farewells, that talking to the people I should’ve been talking to all along. My Grande Java Chip Frappuccino turns into a …

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