Now it's real.

   There are so many ways to actualize something. After sitting on an idea for eight years, I just made it real. "Real," however, is a feeling in this regard; as in, I felt my dream become real. 

   From years of coffee shop experience, in patronage and employment, I know that I love being a barista. I love seeing regular guests every morning and cultivating a welcoming atmosphere. Each morning is more play than work, cracking jokes, pouring gorgeous latte art, and listening to peoples' stories. My regulars are friends that build relationships with me. Once I get comfortable, the coffee shop is like my living room. The morning rush is a rapid-fire recitation of my guests' names. Each one gets personal service and a great cup of coffee. Every shop is the same, even though they are all different. 

   My other great passion is the natural world. I enjoy growing food and landscaping. I am also a huge fan of hard work, so the farm life has always interested me. Thinking in terms of resources, coffee seems frivolous and wasteful. On the other hand, it's a daily indulgence millions want, and, honestly, I am absolutely one of them. My cupboard is full of reusable containers that I try to remember, to be more environmentally responsible. I cringe when I see plastic straws and to go cups in the trash can. I can't change the world. Paper and plastic are the most readily used take out containers, and coffee is still shipped halfway across the world. What is a girl to do?!

   All of my ideas came to a conclusion recently: I am opening a coffee shop of my own! It will be called Eco Jam, which felt very appropriate. All containers used for food and drink will be compostable or recycled. Coffee will be locally roasted and thoroughly investigated for fairness. A line of herbal teas is also in the works, homegrown, of course. 

   The beginning of Eco Jam will be very small, most likely a kiosk or stand. Within three years, I hope to have enough of a following to open a shop with a greenhouse. From there, perhaps in five years, I will be experimenting with locally grown coffee and black tea. Eco Jam will expand into commercial greenhouse space, possibly on a farm. By keeping products local, there will be very little shipping and much fresher products. Nothing this extensive is being done in Chicago yet. As the Green movement is gaining momentum and popularity, these Eco-friendly changes are needed in the coffee industry.

   "I am opening a coffeeshop." I keep saying it like an intention. To make it Real, I started a blog. This is the beginning. The old business plan is dusted off and being spruced up. I am sketching a logo. I have done more writing and research in the last week than in the last five years. It's wonderful! I am exhilarated by this challenge. Whatever happens next, I am ready and totally unprepared. One day at a time, I am meeting my goal.