Miss my Philz!

 Aloha & Feliz, Jueves!

In addition to calling a few business owners to say hello last summer, I sent postcards to a few shops, including my all-time favorite coffee shop in Redwood City: Philz Coffee.

A few years ago, I caught an employee in the parking lot and mentioned: "I think I've been coming here since you opened..” to which they laughed and responded: “Heidi, I think you were our first customer."

When I got really into writing a few years ago and interested in beefing up my community efforts, both through my website and social media, Philz Coffee became my go-to second favorite writing spot (with my home being my favorite - because it was the most convenient, obviously!)

Over the years, I got to meet many Philz baristas and gave them gifts when they moved on to their next endeavor. Many times they'd also get to meet my son, who would tote along on many of my trips.

Last summer, written on my postcard, I requested them to give my son a cinnamon bun if they saw him - two years ago I discouraged these in my car, as this was too much of a sticky, messy choice, but given the circumstances, my hopes are that they would do this. :-)

On my drive up to Norcal for another costly court experience last month, I was tempted to swing by, but only had cash on me - which funnily, they take for tips, but not at the register. While, yes, I bet they would have comped me a coffee, at this point, I have been so burned by the SF Bay Area in every possible way, that when I go up there now, it's an in and out business for me. 

**This post is dedicated to one of my favorite Philz baristas, Paul. This kind gentlemen absorbed my stories as I picked up my coffee and got to meet my Berner, Bruno Mars, when he was much smaller. He also noted when I made mistakes in my order (like ordering 5 burritos, when I meant to order 5 hot sauces), which didn't happen often, but nonetheless, he seemed to always look out for me and be a friend, when I needed it. Often I'd come into Philz over the winter of 2023 and exclaim "Gosh, Paul. I am still alive.. despite it all." Anyway, one day I do hope to see him and the Philz regular crew one day under better circumstances - a woman can dream, right!? Right.

With Good Vibes,

Heidi