Coffee and Music* in Hillsboro

Hillsboro Saturday Farmer's Market

2009-05-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that we are now a part of the Hillsboro Saturday Farmer's Market family! Thanks to our mentors, Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters, we now have a coffee cart so we can take our espresso on the road! But what better way to be involved in the community than serving coffee at the market? Great weather, good food and fun people can only be enhanced with a lovely cup o' organic joe! The Saturday Farmer's Market goes from May - October, 8:00am to 1:30pm in Downtown Hillsboro. Come see us and say hi!

Become a Fan!

2009-04-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

Besides having a Facebook "Group" for Insomnia Coffee, we now have a REAL presence on the online social community. So help us out and become a fan! We'd love to see you on there!

Little People, Big World features Insomnia!

2009-03-31T14:09:00.001-07:00

Insomnia Coffee just made our national television debut on the TLC show "Little People, Big World" last night. So fun to see our shop on tv! We were super grateful for the nice plug by the Roloff family and the producers of LPBW. A BIG THANK YOU to them!
Okay, so if you missed it, here is the episode information to see when it will be re-airing or posted online:

"Little People, Big World"
Big Twins on Campus

Synopsis: Zach and Jeremy are having a hard time balancing their social life with academics in their senior year. The twins help pack the house when their buddy's band performs at a local coffee shop, but they can't seem to cram in enough study time for the SAT.

**It will be re-aired on Apr 04, 8:30 pm**

Now that our logo has been splashed across tv screens across the nation we feel kinda famous. Autograph sessions will be scheduled soon. *wink*

Oh where, oh where...

2009-02-03T13:52:00.000-08:00

have all our blog pictures gone?

Just last week I noticed that almost all the pictures in our previous blog entries have disappeared. I gave it some time, thinking they'd reload or something. Did they escape thinking we're hard-nosed employers? Truly we were kind to them...we even gave them President's day off. Why must they desert us at a time like this??

Please, if you see them send them home. We can't sleep at night until they're safely tucked away in their comfy blog posts.

Thanks for your concern.

I had to share...

2009-02-03T13:45:00.000-08:00

Friends, I found this blogger's account of his own personal history with coffee quite amusing. It's cleverly written and illustrated with napkin art doodles made with coffee ink. And we won't hold it against him that he's a New Yorker instead of Puddletown resident, will we?

niemann.blogs.nytimes.com

We're proud to announce...

2009-01-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

We have new COUNTERTOPS! Last sunday, Evan and Tyler, accompanied by our friendly help, Richard and Mike, ripped up the old brown countertops and replaced them with shiny, golden butcher block. It was an easy job...only took 9 HOURS! (ugh...glad it's done!) If you haven't already been by to see, pop in a take a look.

The OLD ones...Evan and Mike cutting up the new counter.Mike and Tyler screwing the counter down.Almost done...

Thank you Richard McNully for your documentation of the project!

out of the ordinary...

2009-01-05T12:54:00.001-08:00

wow...we sure are lucky with the amazing caliber of musicians who grace our stage with their art. to add to the list, we are having an exciting concert at an unusual time. the Shoemaker Brothers are joining us on Wednesday, January 7th from 4pm-6pm. you will NOT want to miss this talent! pop in for an early evening latte or chai and be ready to be amazed! check out their website, too: http://www.shoemakerbrothers.com

the new year is upon us

2008-12-30T15:26:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Where did 2008 go? Friends, we'll be open our normal hours (6am-10pm) on New Year's Eve and then CLOSED on New Year's Day. Hope your celebrations are fantastic!

'tis the season...

2008-12-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, friends! We hope your Christmas is filled with family, laughter, joy, good food, warmth, smiles...and of course, coffee! Enjoy this holiday!

The snow keeps falling...

2008-12-21T18:40:00.001-08:00

Friends...the snow is not letting up. We've gone through one week of what the news channel is calling the "ARCTIC BLAST" and it looks like another is on it's way. Our plan is to be open our usual hours, but we may post "snow hours" on our window. If you're planning on stopping in and are unsure if we're open, give us a call @ (503) 601-4314 to check. See you soon!
Pictured: Tyler venturing out in the white stuff...the shop is under a beautiful blanket and our drive-thru is open for the adventurous folk.

the mugs are here! the mugs are here!

2008-12-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

Get 'em while we got 'em. limited edition, handmade mugs by Kristin at Urbana. Simply fabulous, and like children in a family, all a little different.

Arctic Chill

2008-12-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

So, like everyone else around town, we're getting ready to hunker down through more snow, wind, and rain headed our way on Wednesday and throughout the coming week. So that we can keep our life, limbs & sanity, our plan is to CLOSE AT 4PM on TUESDAY, and OPEN at 7AM on WEDNESDAY, until the weather no longer permits it! Most likely, until 3 or 4PM. We'll play Thursday by ear...keep your eye on this blog, or just give us a ring for the latest update...503.601.4314

Stay safe!

ps: these are the cookies our wonderful customer Nicole made us. she brought them a very short time ago, and now this photo is all I have left of them. for a giggle: notice the missing lower halves of the snowmen, and limb of the gingerbread dude. they came this way. she said the tin had been full, but she was stuck inside and the cabin fever set in. kinda like the donner party, but with cookies. mmmmmm. cookies.

just like the mailman...

2008-12-14T18:47:00.000-08:00

through wind, storm, snow & hail
insomnia's open, we will not fail.

though the arctic wind is blowing,
we have tasty treats
in spite of the blizzard,
in spite of the sleet.

yes, folks, we're open. when the cabin fever sets in, come on by, will ya?

monday 6am!

Something for Everyone

2008-12-12T21:46:00.001-08:00

GIFT BAG TIME!!!

Why shop around when you can just come here and get ‘em what they REALLY want...Insomnia! We’ve done our best to make it easy for you...three “grades” of gift bag happiness, depending on how much you love your recipient (aka, how much you wanna spend?).
For the coworker who’s name you drew for secret santa, I’d go with the basic bag, containing one our our fantastic new chocolate brown travel mugs (12/14oz, ceramic & stainless steel) and a $5 gift Card. After all, they’ve been pretty tolerable, not playing their radio above a reasonable volume and keeping their mitts of your favorite red stapler. Take care of them well for $17, bagged and ready to give.
For the Host & Hostess, consider giving them one of our sturdy travel mugs with a pound of Sleepy Monk Coffee, whole bean, or ground to order. He’ll think you’re smart and savvy for investing in a reusable, earth-friendly coffee cup, and she’ll think you’re a Georgia peach for saving her a trip to the store for fresh coffee during the hectic holidays. Yours for $24.
And finally, the bag that has it all, with a splendid mug, pound of fresh coffee, AND an Insomnia long-sleeved tee. Now that the rain is officially here, we can all use a comfy extra shirt to keep us warm and share the joy of Insomnia. Bagged and ready to give or keep for yourself, $42.
You may ask, “But what about the TEA lovers? Don’t you have anything for them?” Yes, Virginia. We sure do. Our Tea Bag (get it?) includes the above raved about mug, 4oz (which makes approx 50 cups) of Fruit Sangria loose leaf tea, AND the ever popular ingenuiTEA. If you haven’t seen it in action, come on by. Its the best way to brew loose leaf tea that we’ve found, easy to use, easy to clean, and great with all types of tea. Heck, you can even microwave it in a bind. You’ll be first on their list, for only $52.
Please note that a pound of our comforting house chai mix can be substituted in the above bags in place of a pound of coffee.
-Amy

Musicians Wanted!

2008-12-12T21:13:00.000-08:00

Christmas Open Mike Night/ Fundraiser

So the holidays are here, and we are very excited to announce that our first Christmas Open Mike Night will be held on DECEMBER 20th, from 8-11pm. All participants have 10 minutes to entertain the crowd with their best renditions of, well...whatever Christmahanakwanzaka songs they have! Please sign up now so Evan can begin his magic in preparation of this fantastic night. As usual, all songs should be family friendly and squeaky-clean in content. Contact Evan through myspace, coming by the shop, calling 503-601-4314, or emailing insomniacoffeecompany@yahoo.com. We can't wait to hear from you!And since its Christmas and all, we thought we’d take the opportunity to plug one of our favorite local organizations that night, as well as taking cash (or check!)donations, and food for The House of Ruth. In case you aren’t aware of this amazing organization right in our backyard, The House of Ruth is a nonprofit home for young pregnant women in their time of need. They have been changing lives for over ten years now, giving hope to girls who have never had acceptance, love, or a sense of belonging before. These wonderful women leave with full hearts and a better understanding of how to break cycles of abuse and addiction, giving them the chance to change their lives, and the lives of their children. I can’t say enough good things about what their staff is doing, and this is a great chance for the community to come out and show their love and support to the girls in the home, and the wonderful people who make it all possible. Financial contributions are always welcomed, but please keep in mind that there’s a long list of other things they can use: Paper towels, dish soap, laundry soap, diapers, canned food items, pasta...you get the idea. For more on exactly what they can use right now, please go to www.thehouseofruth.org.
As always, our music nights are free of a cover charge...but consider bringing an extra buck or two for THoR. If everybody does, it will really add up-wouldn’t that be awesome?
-Amy

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-12-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

Friends, Insomnia is the place to get your holiday fix. Cozy up next to our Christmas tree with a warm Gingerbread latte... Delve into a book under our over-sized snowflakes with the popular Mele-Kaliki-Mocha... Gaze at our stockings, hung with care, while sipping on a Caramel Apple Cider. It's up to you!

MUSIC TONIGHT 7-11

2008-11-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

Mia & Jonah...& Evan!
If you missed Mia and Jonah last month when they played, now’s your chance to experience their fantastic mellow folk/power vocals/bluegrassyness live and in person, with our very own Evan singing back-up on a song or two! They will be onstage this friday at 7pm, followed by Tristan Ellingsworth from 9-11(he’s great too-so stick around after M+J).
Check out their website for a listen...www.miaandjonah.com
-Amy
ps-this photo was taken in our living room after their jam session...and no, the kid’s not in the band. he’s just a groupie.

Java Rock cafe & Little People, Big World

2008-11-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder (and for those who don't know) tonight Brian Roth is playing for Java Rock Cafe and the filming of "Little People, Big World" is happening! Let's pack it out, folks-it'll be awesome! Brian is playing from 9-11...See ya there!
-amy

Insomnia's New Mug

2008-11-18T17:36:00.001-08:00

Just in time for Christmas shopping, our new mug has arrived! It's ceramic/stainless steel and is the perfect size at 14oz.
Your friend asks: "What's that you have in YOUR hand?"
You say: "Only the finest in coffee mug-ware...an Insomnia mug!"

Project night...

2008-11-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

So, Ladies & Gents...you are aware that Christmas will be here before you know it? If you’re like me, there’s a list as long as my arm that I “intend” to finish. This includes everything from addressing envelopes for Christmas cards, a couple unfinished scrap booking projects that would make fabulous gifts if I only completed them, to a-HEY! Wait a minute! NO PEEKING! Sorry, you’ll just have to take my word for it, folks. All that to say, if you’d like some company and good coffee while you make a dent in your holiday “to do” pile, come join my pal Kim & I on Tuesday, December 2nd, from 6-10pm. We will be hanging out at the shop & having a grand social time with you & anyone who’ll join us! All are welcome...just try to pick a “to do” that doesn’t require a TON of space (or newspaper on the floor, or a lot of hot wax, glitter, or, well, you get the picture). We hope to see you there!

A fun thought aside...if you have a favorite Christmas cookie or dessert recipe you’re willing to share, bring a few copies and we’ll pass ‘em around-we can all use a recipe box update every once in a while!
-Amy

Halloween at Insomnia...

2008-11-08T20:59:00.001-08:00

Ashley...is that a skeleton hand in your hair?
Amy pretends to love corporate coffee.
Is that Dr. Horrible? Or is it David?
80's Runner Evan...hit the Highway!
Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett made an appearance...
secretly it's Debbie and Reba!
Tyler sports the Interstate on his chest.
At Insomnia, we don't need many excuses to don costumes...Halloween brought out our creativity. Good participation, team!

November's Artist

2008-11-01T22:34:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce this month's artist: Jade Sheldon. Come by to check out her creative, colorful pieces. Or read about her at www.myspace.com/jadeymcjaderson.

Little blurb in the Oregonian.

2008-10-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

Friends, we popped up in the Oregonian again this past Sunday. (Oct. 26, 2008) Here's the clipping showing one of our fun customers (bottom left corner). Thanks for your support, Tasia...now, you're FAMOUS!

Andy Carson with Good Day Oregon!

2008-10-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Andy Carson just paid us a visit this morning! So fun! Hopefully you were able to catch the segments on KPTV12 during the morning news...if not, we're trying to compile the recorded segments to post online.

Thanks, Andy, for spending the morning with us. It was a hoot to hang out and get to know you. You're definitely a pro. Oh, and we're glad you liked the mochas!

Fox 12 At Insomnia Coffee

2008-10-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Insomnia's OPEN MIC NIGHT!

2008-06-14T21:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, y'all. We're finally opening up an OPEN MIC NIGHT! Come by the shop to fill a slot on the list!

Here's the fine print:
All songs must be original. You have a total of 10 mins on stage. (This must include set-up and take down) Because this is a family environment, you must restrict all off-color or rude behavior. This stage is for artists with something to share. If not all the slots are filled please ask for any availability a week in advance (july 11th).

****There will be 2 mics, and hook-ups for guitar****

Thank you!

The Dessert Menu is Unveiled!

2008-06-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Finally, the Dessert Menu is available just in time for the summer crowds! Come on in to see what we have to offer...

Here's a glimpse:

Insomnia has SHIRTS now, too!

2008-04-28T14:38:00.000-07:00

If you've always wanted to be stamped with our logo just like our paper cups...you finally can! We now have shirts so you can sport your favorite coffee company around town. Here's a glimpse:
Front

Back

Yes, it says "coffee snob quality without the attitude!"

The shirt comes in two organic colors...olive and dark smoke. Our sizes range from XS-XL. Come pick one out soon! :)

What? An Insomnia MUG?

2008-04-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, you heard right! Insomnia now has their own travel mug! Just got 'em today so they're available right now. Now you can take a piece of us home with you...but don't expect us to do your laundry and dishes.

It's our BIRTHDAY!

2008-04-09T15:28:00.001-07:00

So we're gonna have a PART-AY!

Here's the dealy-o. We're throwing a bash this weekend to celebrate our being around for a year. This Friday and Saturday (April 11th and 12th) we'll be raising our mugs and pastries in jubilation!

We're even holding a drawing each day for new Insomnia merchandise. You'll have to come check it all out!

Anniversary Cake!

2008-04-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

Who gets cake on their anniversary? WE DO!

Tyler's rad sister-in-law, Tiffany Light (of Portland's Pearl District Via Delizia fame) created a masterpiece to help us ring in our birthday. So delish!

Let's see, it was chocolate with buttercream icing, layered with chocolate ganache. Otherwise known as HEAVEN! :)

I know, I know...you wish you coulda had a piece. Sorry it's all gone. We're fat and happy. ha ha ha! Thanks Tiff!

We're such SLACKERS!

2008-04-09T15:09:00.000-07:00

An apology is necessary. We've slacked off in our blogging duties. All this excitement building about our one year anniversary has swept us away, working on many other projects. It won't happen again. *blushing*

Summer Miller

2008-02-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

Brandon Crittendon

2008-02-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

Kyle Stuck

2008-02-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Mug Shots

2008-02-08T21:09:00.000-08:00

We have the best customers! Several of our patrons agreed to pose for "Mug Shots" which feature them and their favorite "regular" drink. Obviously the mobster names are fictional to protect the guilty...guilty of loving INSOMNIA!

Travis Ehrenstrom & Lindsey Pool

2008-02-08T11:02:00.001-08:00

2008, The Year of the Rat.

2008-02-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

In honor of the Chinese New Year, our month's art display is Chinese Brush Painting. The collection, "Brushstrokes for Balance" by Candace Faith Fruge, graces our walls and provides beauty and education for our customers. Candace has compiled a binder with the history of the art and information on Chinese traditions of their Zodiac calendar.
Come on by, sip some organic coffee, enjoy the art and learn from other cultures!

Priates Beware!

2008-02-04T15:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Shauna Noah (our Americano friend) we have a warning sign to those whose outlook needs altering. David is showing us his fierce, prirate-like alter-ego...those of us who work with him know this side of him well. We're afraid...very afraid.

Oregonian Article

2008-01-31T21:46:00.000-08:00

Here it is! The awaited article from the Oregonian's Washington Weekly. Click on the image to read the story.

Featured in The Oregonian and LivePDX!

2008-01-29T11:02:00.000-08:00

Well friends...we've been featured in some of Portland's finest. LivePDX.com has included us in their core fantastic businesses...in fact, if you visit the site right now, you'll see our photo FIRST on the main page! Here are some links:
www.LivePDX.com - The Main Page
www.LivePDX.com/Articles - The page with the Insomnia Coffee article

AND the Oregonian has interviewed us for an article in their Washington Weekly! Watch the paper and we'll post a copy of the article here on our blog!

Field Construction

2008-01-21T11:04:00.000-08:00

Well, they've been "truckin'" away on the field next door. As the park is going in we have constant entertainment out the drive thru window. With each truck/backhoe/bulldozer rumbling by, our whole shop feels the vibrations. Kinda wild.

Chris Bjerkin

2008-01-16T11:33:00.000-08:00

Patrick Hammond

2008-01-16T11:31:00.000-08:00

Soap Opera Coffee Shop

2008-01-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our customer, Jane Kurth (or "Mala-chi" to those who know her best), we found out that the ever popular soap opera "Bold and the Beautiful" features a coffee shop on their set named "Insomnia Cafe". Jane was suspicious that we paid the broadcast company to have our name mentioned in effort to lure her to the shop.
She now hears our name everywhere. We're out to get you!!

Yvonne's Stickers

2008-01-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

This lovely woman graces our espresso machine. She keeps us company. She's kinda like those mermaids on the front of flagships. Except she's not so presumptuous.
She's just who she is.

These little images are stickers of cartoonish beings. Their origin lands are unknown...well, the paper bag gremlin is obviously from the grocery store.
Stop by the shop sometime and help us name them.

Who's Line is it Anyway?

2008-01-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

Some shop creativity. During a lull moment, Mike and Tyler engaged in a competitive round of "Props", an improv exercise. Given a random object, they were forced to change it's purpose and display it's new use. Here were some of the ideas...

A torch...with flames.

A Pirate's Peg Leg...ARG!

A trumpet...played by a kilted Scot.

An Electric Guitar...catching some air.

An Ear Horn...for us older folk. "What? Say that again!"

Twins...

2008-01-05T15:45:00.001-08:00

Amy and Yvonne...too cute for words!

January's Artist: Yvonne Stotler

2008-01-04T15:42:00.000-08:00

Yvonne Stotler's first solo art show:
You all are invited to check out the artistic endevours of Yvonne Stotler this Friday, at the opening of her first solo art show, with special musical guests, The Carrier Pigeons.

The music will be going from 9-11pm... so come indulge your senses with the sights, sounds, aromas and flavors which await you this Friday, January 4th.

Books On Tape

2008-01-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

The Carrier Pigeons

2008-01-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

THE BAND THIRTEEN

2007-12-27T20:35:00.001-08:00

STEVE SPORRE

2007-12-27T20:33:00.000-08:00

Lindsey Pool

2007-12-21T11:07:00.000-08:00

Breanna Paletta

2007-12-21T11:05:00.000-08:00

New Friend @ Insomnia

2007-12-19T10:13:00.000-08:00

For those of you who haven't visited the shop in a while, we wanted to introduce you to a new friend of ours. Posthat is his name...unusual, yes...it's french. Stop in to greet him and make him feel welcome.

Evan Sings

2007-11-29T17:52:00.001-08:00

Last night Insomnia's very own Evan Aldrete sang at The Old Church in downtown Portland. It was a great way to start off the Christmas season. Evan is a great singer and stage performer. We look forward to hearing more Evan.

Travis Ehrenstrom

2007-11-22T09:38:00.000-08:00

Soft Morning City

2007-11-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

See you at INSOMNIA this weekend

Great Show

2007-11-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

Wow The Michalangela Project was so good last Saturday night. What a great display of talent. Great job you guys we look forward to having you again.

Michalangela

2007-11-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Dallas & Elizabeth Hall

2007-11-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

Lori Willouts

2007-11-08T20:06:00.000-08:00

Night Life

2007-11-05T22:28:00.001-08:00

Every Friday and Saturday night the crew at insomnia are working hard and staying up late so people can enjoy live music and great coffee. Come out this weekend and see for your self.

Melissa Ruth

2007-11-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

Everyone come out on Saturday and see Melissa Ruth play. It’s a great time to hang out meet some new friends and enjoy the best coffee around. Check out her myspace page http://www.myspace.com/melissaruthmusic

Great day at the shop

2007-10-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

The crew at insomnia coffee has been working hard all summer and now that fall is here things have really been picking up. Coffee is just so much better when it’s cold and crisp outside. If you haven’t stopped by the shop be sure to and order something that will make your fall day a better day.
Photos by Jared birt

Returning Saturday - Jesse Bray

2007-08-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

Jesse Bray will be returning to Insomnia Coffee company this Saturday. There was a good crowd last time he performed. Come out and watch the air show in Hillsboro, then stop in at Insomnia for some good music.

Music Friday - Jackie Hooper

2007-08-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Local artist Jackie Hooper will bring her blend of
folk, acoustic, indie music to Insomnia Coffee Company
this Friday, and she would love to see you all there.

Music Saturday - Chris Marshall

2007-08-02T20:18:00.001-07:00

Chris Marshall is a local artist who is influenced by musicians from a time before his generation, such as Elvis and Hank Williams. Worth seeing, and you can check out his music at his MySpace site.

Once in a Blue Moon

2007-08-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Tyler's Getting Married!

2007-07-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Wow! It seems big news always comes in threes around here:

-The new Harry Potter book is out!

-Ikea is opening in Portland this week!!

-Tyler is getting MARRIED!!! That tops everything!

So Insomnia Coffee Company is giving him a few hours off, resulting in shorter hours this Friday and Saturday. No music this week, either, except at the wedding.

There are three things that last: faith, hope and love, and the greatest of these is love.
- I Corinthians 13:13

Girls' Nite Out

2007-07-04T23:51:00.000-07:00

Click picture to enlarge.

Insomnia Coffee Company sometimes stays open late for special group events. Last month there was a quilt group meeting. This month there will be a "girls only" event hosted by Anna Briggs and Cassie Ashby with The Body Shop at Home. This notice for Monday the 9th was found posted on the bulletin board.

Fine Art

2007-07-04T23:33:00.000-07:00

Some great art work found on the refrigerator at Insomnia Coffee Company.

Courtney Jones

2007-07-04T23:20:00.002-07:00

Courtney Jones and friends packed a lot of good music into two hours last Friday at Insomnia Coffee Company. A good number of music and coffee aficionados showed up to enjoy the performance, and Courtney plans on returning to Insomnia.

Freedom

2007-07-04T13:23:00.001-07:00

"Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people." -Abraham Lincoln

"Freedom is nothing else but a chance to be better." - Albert Camus

"Liberty is the right to choose. Freedom is the result of the right choice." - Unknown

"Liberty is the possibility of doubting, the possibility of making a mistake, the possibility of searching and experimenting, the possibility of saying no to any authority - literary, artistic, philosophic, religious, social, and even political." - Ignazio Silone

"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty." - John Fitzgerald Kennedy

"Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one." - Benjamin Franklin

Everything that is great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom." - Albert Einstein

"A country cannot subsist well without liberty, nor liberty without virtue." - Jean-Jacques Rousseau

"Liberty, as well as honor, man ought to preserve at the hazard of his life, for without it life is insupportable." - Miguel de Cervantes

"The real democratic idea is, not that every man shall be on a level with every other, but that every one shall have liberty, without hindrance, to be what God made him." - Henry Ward Beecher

Hemant Rao

2007-07-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hemant Rao will be on the Insomnia Coffee Company stage this Saturday at 9 pm. Currently on a west coast tour, Hemant was born and raised in Montreal, and now lives in Vancouver (the other Vancouver), and has been playing and writing music professionaly for 15 years.

"If the Mafia exists in Montreal, it's probably like the Knights of Columbus." - Armand Courville

Tim Uecker

2007-07-02T17:50:00.001-07:00

Local musician Tim Ueker will be on stage this Friday at Insomnia Coffee Company.

Two Bug Night

2007-07-01T15:52:00.001-07:00

Could it be that Insomnia Coffee Company is becoming a meetup place for New Beetle owners? If word gets out, it could be very interesting.

When Amy was a little girl, she liked to have collections (got that from her mom). As soon as she had two of something, it was considered a collection.

“It is rare that one can see in a little boy the promise of a man, but one can always see in a little girl the threat of a woman.” - Alexandre Dumas

Just Another Customer...

2007-06-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

...what else would you expect? This is Oregon, after all. Lots of rain in Hillsboro today, and more forecast for tomorrow. Here's a customer who can still get a drink even if the water gets too high in the drive through lane.

“In rivers, the water that you touch is the last of what has passed and the first of that which comes; so with present time.”- Leonardo da Vinci

Saturday Live Music

2007-06-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

Steve Cheseborough will be on the Insomnia Coffee Company stage this Saturday from 9 to 11 pm. Steve isn't one to settle for just playing the blues. He has studied the history of the genre and brings it to life in his performance. He writes, travels, lectures, teaches, and photographs the blues. He also has the most interesting group of friends on his MySpace site.

“Don't forget your history nor your destiny” - Bob Marley

Live Music Friday

2007-06-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

Local artist and award winning singer-songwriter Courtney Jones will be playing live on the Insomnia Coffee Company music stage this Friday from 9-11pm.

If we listened to our intellect, we'd never have a love affair. We'd never have a friendship. We'd never go into business, because we'd be cynical. You've got to jump off cliffs all the time and build your wings on the way down. - Ray Bradbury

Alfonso Pe Benito

2007-06-15T22:42:00.000-07:00

Alfonso Pe Benito played on stage at Insomnia Coffee Company tonight. He has a good blend of folk, soul, jazz, and instrumental. Mixed in with it all was some humor and storytelling.

But that's another story. - Rudyard Kipling

Weekend Arts at Insomnia

2007-06-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Insomnia Coffee Company has a trio of art talent on hand this weekend.

Alfonso Pe Benito will be on stage Friday evening at 9 p.m. to get the weekend started with his personal style of acoustic jazz. This will be Alfonso's first time on the Insomnia stage.

Saturday evening at 8:30 there will be a reception for mixed media artist Kathyrn Bredemeier, whose works are featured on the Insomnia wall of art for the month of June.

Dick Kutch and friends will be returning to Insomnia following the reception at 9:00 with some jazz tunes.

Art is an intersection of many human needs. - Carl Andre

small thoughts

2007-06-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

Insomnia Coffee Company is hosting an artist reception this Saturday at 8:30 p.m.

The featured local artist for June is Kathryn Bredemeier. Some of her works are already on the walls at Insomnia. Come in and meet Kathryn, see her work, and stay for live music by the Dick Kutch Trio following the reception.

Art washes from the soul the dust of every day life. - Pablo Picasso

Evan Plays

2007-06-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

photo by Becky Knopp

Insomnia Coffee Company is getting some great musical talent in on the weekends.

Evan took to the stage Saturday to play a medley of Eagles tunes, some original pieces, and even a number on the mandolin. Great job, Evan.

It may be raining, but there's a rainbow above you. - The Eagles, Desperado

Evan Onstage!

2007-06-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

Taht's right! I'm so excited I can't even type well. This Saturday Evan will come out from behind the coffee bar, pick up his guitar, and hit the stage singing. So all you friends, relatives, and customers, here's your chance to hear him. You won't be disappointed.

“I am proud to be an American, because an American can eat anything on the face of this earth as long as he has two pieces of bread.” - Bill Cosby

Playing the Blues

2007-06-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

Foot stompin' Don Haupt was on stage Saturday evening at Insomnia Coffee Company, doing a great job with some old blues tunes. Check out pictures of Don on the web (his MySpace site, for example) and you'll see he's always smiling. He's right at home with the blues.

“Go ahead and play the blues if it'll make you happy.”
- Dan Castellaneta

Stressed?

2007-06-02T23:17:00.000-07:00

click on picture for enlargement
click here for example (Warning - graphic dessert picture)

Mmmmm... fine desserts! My mouth waters just reading this menu, because I've tried some of them. Now that my taste buds have experienced them I can't help but salivate just reading the names.

Stressed spelled backwards is desserts. Coincidence? I think not! - Author Unknown

Insomnia Loves Artists, too.

2007-06-01T16:57:00.001-07:00

These two young artists left a wonderful piece of art at Insomnia Coffee Company. "The best coffee" it says at the bottom. I'm amazed at how many times I've already heard that about Insomnia Coffee. One older gentleman, a coffee aficionado who has traveled around the world, said he has never tasted better coffee anywhere.

Everyone is an artist, some just don't know it. You can find some drawing pads, crayons, and colored pencils on the game and book shelves at the rear of the coffee house.

“I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people” - Vincent van Gogh

cold...cold...COLD!

2007-05-31T17:43:00.000-07:00

Insomnia Coffee Company is ready for the warmer weather. Of course they have the usual iced coffees and teas. Then there is Vitamin Water, apple juice, and orange juice. But Insomnia has some special cold drinks ready for summer. Here are three:

~Summer Eclipse~ A refreshing spin on your average iced tea.

~The Gorilla~ Blended dark chocolate mocha with real banana.

~Tahitian Vanilla Latte~ A delicious blended vanilla latte.

There are more, and as always with Insomnia, more to come.

“Who was the first guy that look at a cow and said," I think that I'll drink whatever comes out of those things when I squeeze them?” - Calvin & Hobbes

Blues this Saturday

2007-05-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hillsboro could sure use a shot of the blues, and Don Haupt is the artist who can deliver it. He'll be on stage at Insomnia Coffee Company from 9pm. If you're a blues fan, you may already know Don. If not, this is your chance to get acquainted with some fine work.

His music speaks for itself, but I'll let Don's explanation from his MySpace site give you a clue:

Foot-stompin', guitar smackin', screamin' and hollerin' delta blues. No froofy singer-songwriter tearjerkers thrown in between tracks....just blues. Some folks calls it roots blues, some calls it folk blues, some calls it delta blues, but everybody calls it blues. Done old school like it should be, one man and an acoustic guitar.

Could'na said it better myself. Be there for a great time. Saturday, June 2nd 9pm.

“I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues.”
- Duke Ellington

Jesse Bray

2007-05-29T21:38:00.000-07:00

Insomnia Coffee Company was packed Saturday night with Jesse Bray and his band playing a mix of folk/rock/country tunes. Music, drinks, and treats were enjoyed by all.

"Ther is never enough time to do all the nothing we want to do." - Bill Watterson

Dick, Evan, and Ali

2007-05-26T00:40:00.000-07:00

Dick Kutch showed up to play Friday evening to kick off the Memorial Day weekend, and Evan joined him onstage to open. Ali O'Day then joined Dick for some classic vocals. Dick is scheduled to return June 22nd, and Ali is also planning on returning in the future.

“One man gets nothing but discord out of a piano; another gets harmony. No one claims the piano is at fault. Life is about the same. The discord is there, and the harmony is there. Study to play it correctly, and it will give forth the beauty; play it falsely, and it will give forth the ugliness. Life is not at fault.” - source unknown

Weekend Plans?

2007-05-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

Image courtesy of Doc's Patriotic Graphics

Memorial Day is this coming Monday. If you are one of the many who have chosen to stay in town, Insomnia Coffee Company is planning on being open until noon. Stop in for a visit. All the usual drinks, treats, and games are available, and it's not a bad place to sit and think or share what the day is about.

“Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway” - John Wayne

Happy 100th Birthday (Saturday) to John Wayne.

Scrapper

2007-05-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

Amy has put together a neat scrapbook of photos from way before Insomnia Coffee Company opened up to the present. Check it out in the coffee house - it's really cool, and it's full of pictures you haven't seen on this blog.

"One should really use the camera as though tomorrow you'd be stricken blind." - Dorothea Lange

QUILTS!

2007-05-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

Becky and her friends, the Blocksmith Quilt Group, met at Insomnia Coffee Company Monday evening. Amy was very kind to stay open after hours for them, especially since she wasn't expecting them until next week. The quilts these gals come up with are amazing.

Quilting with a friend will keep you in stitches.

This Saturday

2007-05-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

Jesse Bray will be onstage at Insomnia Coffee Company this Saturday from 9-11 pm. He performs a mix of folk, pop, and country.

As always, plenty of fine coffee and tea creations and goodies to go along with the music. Bring a friend!

Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom or philosophy. - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Rosemary Tracy

2007-05-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

Rosemary Tracy played at Insomnia Coffee Company Saturday evening. She has a very refreshing and unique upbeat and lyrical style. If you missed her, or would like to see her again, she'll be back Friday, July 13th at 9 p.m.

"Not all who wonder are lost..." - Rosemary Tracy

Insomnia Loves You, Too!

2007-05-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't visit Insomnia Coffee Company at MySpace, here's a recent post from an Insomnia Coffee lover. Does anyone have a larger tower of cups saved up?

Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile. - Franklin P. Jones

"I Have Been Chosen!"

2007-05-18T21:20:00.001-07:00

So many syrups, how do they know which one to choose? They all look the same to me.

"Farewell, my friends. I go on to a better place." - Alien toy after being chosen by the claw in Toy Story.