04/20/2026
And suddenly it’s Season 16! I can still remember the first day like it was yesterday. I was 29 years old, getting ready for a “soft opening” and had just trained my employees (who are now a pilot, an architect and artist-Cafè owner 🎨) an hour before. We assumed everyone would enjoy ordering coffee. But no! Suddenly everyone started to order every espresso-based drink on my DIY chalkboard menus and I remember looking at my crew saying, “are we ready!?” and sure enough the shop was full of customers. My favorite memory of all was my dad, rolling up to the window, on his mobility scooter, peeking thru window. I just had a moment to get a glimpse of his reaction, with his head up and eyes closed, he smiled with laughter and with relief, knowing I had created something great.
My accent wall back then was candy apple red (my dad’s favorite color) with latte colored walls. Chet Baker always played on pandora. I had a tiny red la pavoni espresso machined called, “Big Red” and a Special-of-the-day with any flavors that I felt would be a hit. Does bed head, Betty White, and sugar loaf ring a bell? Additionally I made a calendar that year (I’ll try and dig it up for you all to see!) of the progress and memorable times.
And with that more memorable times to come! With the economic changes, I hope that most of you can make your way to the island this year. If not we love hearing from you even if it’s a response to a post, poll, or story. Thanks to you, you make what we do extra special. By giving us your support none of this would be possible. ~Boss Lady
