I love the header picture. We took it on Christmas Eve, when all of those folks were here and working. There were so many of us (because there were so many of you!), and we took a quick break between helping customers to grab this shot. The thing I love about it is how the smiles are not forced--this is a group that enjoys each others company. This crew loves each other, in a genuine way. We spend time together even when we're not working, and there are often extra employees hanging around.

We hope that all of you feel that sense of community on the other side of the counter. That you feel included in our family and a part of the conversation around here. We wouldn't be here without you, and we appreciate each of you who have taken the time to be with us this year. Thank you. We've had a great 2018, and it is all because of you.

This week we are featuring our Sulawesi Toarco Jaya AA. This is a fully washed coffee--unusual on this tropical island (formerly Celebes). It comes from the indigenous Toraja people, who are known for their elaborate architecture and funereal rites (see article here). The coffee is grown in the high mountains of the central part of Sulawesi, and processed at the PT Toarco Jaya Estate, a joint Japanese and Indonesian collaboration for over forty years. You can read more about PT Toarco Jaya Estate on their website here, and see their contributions to improving the region.

This is a delicious brew, and we're excited to bring it to you. The nose is beautiful, almost spicy, and in the cup it tastes of a clean sweet fruit flavor, with a touch of nutty cashew at the finish. Use the code below for a cup on us.

From our family to ours: a heartfelt thank you for choosing to spend time with us this year. We appreciate your business. We know that there is a lot of competition out there in the coffee world--thanks for choosing local; choosing to be a part of the Carolines family. Here's to a new year, full of great coffee. Cheers to 2019!

--Holly Fike