Parker

This is Parker. Until sometime last year, he lived in Seattle with his girlfriend, Leanne. I originally knew only Leanne, as we attended high school together. Parker worked in the coffee industry in Seattle and did the same upon moving to Portland, so our paths were bound to cross eventually. He lived and still lives just down the street from Coffeehouse Northwest, so I'd see him regularly when he and Leanne would come in to get their morning fix. I would occasionally make a point to go see Parker at his workplace in North Portland, the Red E. Eventually, my boss and the gentleman Adam McGovern decided to hire Parker to work for us at Sterling Coffee Roasters and, in theory, Coffeehouse Northwest. Finally, we had captured the enigmatic man and could pry from underneath his cool skull all his secrets.

It turns out that Parker is one of the most amazing men I've ever met. Far from your typical heteronormative, vapid bro-dude that can be found anywhere, Parker is a one-of-a-kind gentleman. He has an infectious sense of wonder about how the world works on a large and minute scale. His measured, calm forays into his hobbies and life pursuits in general are incredibly inspiring. In fact, he has been one of the most influential people in my life in the past few months. I've had the distinct privilege of spending a good deal of time both at work and outside getting to know Parker and having really great discussions about everything from science to relationships to being just about done with customer service work. Ultimately, this entry is about enlightenment regarding Parker for you internet people and about thankfulness for me. Thank you for being an amazing and inspiring friend, Parker!