tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-360484752023-11-15T05:55:20.969-08:00Whats Shakin?A <i>shaky blog</i> to let you know what is happening in the world of Shaky Tree Coffee as we grow...TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-64267040913736271662009-02-04T10:36:00.000-08:002009-02-04T10:42:35.211-08:00Coffee Printer?Perhaps you can share your next cup with your <a href="http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10156110-1.html?tag=mncol;title" target="_blank">printer</a>.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-19098174695904105712008-12-05T17:32:00.001-08:002008-12-05T17:32:57.845-08:00Have a Shaky/Happy Holiday<div style="text-align:center;line-height:150%"><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/shaky_holiday_mug-168162952028931130?style=ringer_mug&color=black&rf=238306116771380345"><img src="http://rlv.zcache.com/shaky_holiday_mug-p1681629520289311307onn_325.jpg" alt="Shaky Holiday Mug mug" style="border:0;" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/shaky_holiday_mug-168162952028931130?style=ringer_mug&color=black&rf=238306116771380345">Shaky Holiday Mug</a> by <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/treebed*">TreeBed</a><br />Make <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/custom/mugs?rf=238306116771380345">coffee mugs with pictures</a> On <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/?rf=238306116771380345">www.zazzle.com</a></div>TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-14925118632568134742008-10-25T12:13:00.000-07:002008-10-25T12:16:11.423-07:00Iced Coffee?For the temperature indecisive... <a href="http://isiticedcoffeeweather.com/51301" target="_blank">Try it</a>.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-45175621212020934352008-10-03T16:20:00.000-07:002008-10-03T16:33:08.397-07:00Artisans Road TripThis weekend (4th/5th) Shaky Tree will play host to the art of <a href="http://anotherstreasure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad Elliott</a> as he shows off his artwork during <a href="http://artisansroadtrip.com.hosting.domaindirect.com/ataglance.htm" target="_blank">Artisans Road Trip</a>. <br /><br />You can see Chad's art on display in Shaky Tree everyday through the permanent murals both inside on our bar, and outside on the ally side of the building. Chad's talent were a valuable part of bringing Shaky Tree to life as an artist hang out, and much of the visual (and musical) art that he has created over the past few years has been created in the Tree. <br /><br />Artisans Road Trip is a great opportunity to get out and see artists in the spaces that they work. Northwest Iowa is a rich environment for the arts and this is a wonderful showcase of what is going on. Check it out. Also check out Shaky Tree's feature in the fall issue of <a href="http://www.midwestliving.com/" target="_blank">Midwest Living Magazine</a>.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-89712985466045484812008-09-19T13:36:00.001-07:002008-09-19T13:49:00.929-07:00Clay County Fair is Over...And the music is about to begin...<br /><br />Tonight (9/18/2008) <a href="http://anotherstreasure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad Elliott</a> is playing down in Cherokee at the <a href="http://shakytree.blogspot.com/search?q=gathering+place" target="_blank">Gathering Place</a>.<br /><br />Saturday (9/19 - 8pm) <a href="http://www.starlingsmusic.com/home.html" target="_blank">The Starlings</a> take the Shaky Tree stage. Join us for what is sure to be a great evening of Americana tunes all the way from Seattle.<br /><br />Next week we'll be treated to Spencer native <a href="http://www.ambernorgaard.com/" target="_blank">Amber Norgaard</a> (9/26 - 8pm) on Friday... and another Shaky Tree favorite, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/matderiso" target="_blank">Mat D.</a> plays Saturday (9/27 - 8pm). <br /><br />Fall is in the air, and it is a perfect time to join us for live music at the Tree.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-24654043177641600072008-09-08T18:18:00.000-07:002008-09-08T18:26:12.517-07:00Coffee T-Shirt: and important message!<div style="text-align: center; line-height: 150%"><br /> <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/stop_drinking_bad_coffee_t_shirt-235925540532997997?gl=TreeBed&rf=238306116771380345"><br /> <img src="http://rlv.zazzle.com/stop_drinking_bad_coffee_t_shirt-p235925540532997997yc_325.jpg" alt="Stop! drinking bad coffee T-Shirt shirt" style="border: 0px;" /><br /> </a><br /><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/stop_drinking_bad_coffee_t_shirt-235925540532997997?gl=TreeBed&rf=238306116771380345">Stop! drinking bad coffee T-Shirt</a> by <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/treebed*">TreeBed</a><br />Create <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/custom/tshirts?rf=238306116771380345">Custom Tee Shirts</a> With <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/?rf=238306116771380345">zazzle</a><br /></div>TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-62938955508462483362008-08-19T17:02:00.001-07:002008-08-19T17:02:12.264-07:00Danny Santos<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/243992255/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/94/243992255_c0739e8ce4_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/243992255/">House Concert</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a></span></div>The first live music that I heard in Spencer was <a href="http://www.dannysantosmusic.com/" target="_blank">Danny Santos</a> at Martin's newly started house concert series. As you can imagine it is pretty cool to have him coming to play at Shaky Tree this week (8/22/08 - 8pm)... we weren't even open the last time he was in town. <br /><br />Danny had a showed scheduled at the Tree over a year ago, but was snowed out... but I promise it will be a show worth the wait. A true Texas troubadour, Danny Santos will entertain you with his clever commentary and trunk full of stories from the road.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-79764787721965567862008-07-03T17:35:00.001-07:002008-07-03T17:35:29.289-07:00God In A Cup<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/levi944/2621262265/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3204/2621262265_8161292780_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/levi944/2621262265/">God</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/levi944/">Levi944</a></span></div>When I was in Portland last month I saw the book, <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/33174/s?kw=god%20in%20a%20cup" target="_blank">God in a Cup</a>, by <a href="http://michaeleweissmanwrites.com/godinacupofcoffee/" target="_blank">Michaele Weissman</a> on the shelf at <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/33174" target="_blank">Powell's</a>... after deciding that I could exercise my will power and not buy it... I ended up getting it to send to Levi. <br /><br />It lead to $100 dollar half pound of the <a href="http://www.haciendaesmeralda.com/News.htm" target="_blank">Panama Hacienda La Esmeralda</a> gourmet “geisha” coffee being ordered... which is covered extensively in the book.<br /><br />There are lots of different views about this unprecedented coffee, but regardless of whether you think coffee is ready for that kind of price or not... it is a little marker in the history of the coffee industry. Levi now has a piece of that, and if you get the chance you should ask him about it.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-6966955731638023772008-06-26T20:15:00.001-07:002008-06-27T13:36:09.025-07:00the StereoFidelics<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2319178178/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3279/2319178178_f431d18a00_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2319178178/">the Stereofidelics @ Shaky Tree</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a></span></div>Not a whole lot of time to elaborate... but I didn't want to miss the chance to highly suggest getting down to the Tree for this multi-instrument duo from North Carolina. The <a href="http://thestereofidelics.com" target="_blank">StereoFidelics</a> have a unique sound that is versatile and works on many levels (many HIGH levels). Their first show at the Tree prompted the audience to start a petition for a full length album from the duo (which they are in the process of working on, due out in October)... so they listened to the audience demands... and return to the Spencer this Saturday (8pm) share more of their music. You can also follow along on their tour at their <a href="http://stereof.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a>.<br /><br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-80952215781389926162008-06-04T13:15:00.000-07:002008-06-04T14:21:35.288-07:00the Gypsy Dave ConnectionA few weeks ago when we had the pleasure of hosting <a href="http://noahearle.com" target="_blank">Noah Earle</a> (another great show from him BTW), he spotted a poster on the the Shaky Tree community door... "You have <a href="http://www.thegypsydave.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Gypsy Dave</a> coming?" <br /><br />Noah went on to talk about their connection, and I knew this to be a good sign for the upcoming show. It is fun to see how the relationships that Shaky Tree has formed during our short time are part of a larger woven fabric of community. During the past year I have met musicians coming through Spencer that wrote songs I have been listening to for years (long before I even knew Spencer existed), or who know musicians that I know... and played venues I have played/been to many miles away. <br /><br /><a href="http://shakytree.com" target="_blank">Shaky Tree</a> (and Spencer as a whole) is fast becoming a beautiful part of a larger community. It is a community that values live music, and the authentic interaction that happens when a listening environment is nurtured for that creativity. This larger movement has little pieces all over this country (and the world), as well as connecters that travel these roads sharing one place's stories with another. When you make it down to the Tree to support a live show... you are supporting this larger community, and then you become a part of it. Your energy gets woven into the mix, and a piece of your story travels along with the musician to the next spot. <br /><br />The next chance to weave yourself into that larger fabric is this Saturday (6/7/08 @ 8pm) with <a href="http://www.thegypsydave.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Gypsy Dave & the Stumpjumpers</a>. The Shaky Tree stage will highlight the bands rootsy sound covering all sorts of genres, and it is sure to be a fun evening... providing something for everyone.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-22485831652817942212008-05-14T22:03:00.001-07:002008-05-14T22:03:30.780-07:00Noah Earle Returns<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2494207980/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2147/2494207980_475833e914_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2494207980/">Noah Earle & Chad Elliott</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a></span></div><a href="http://noahearle.com" target="_blank"> Noah Earle</a> will be coming back to the Shaky Tree stage this Sunday for a rare afternoon show (3pm). <br /><br />If you didn't catch Noah's first show at Shaky Tree... I'm sorry. His performance last December during our <a href="http://shakytree.blogspot.com/2008/01/big-weekend.html" target="_blank">big weekend</a> of music and events was certainly a highlight. Noah is putting out some of the best stuff I have seen and heard rolling around the mid-west (and all across this country). With laid-back-intensity, unique humor, and solid musicianship as tools to showcase talented song-writing... Noah Earle is a force to be reckoned with (kazoo and all), and not to be missed.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-72979667441467835192008-04-17T13:09:00.001-07:002008-04-17T13:09:01.889-07:00March Open Mic<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2421806612/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2195/2421806612_b4c5b38c0c_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2421806612/">March Open Mic</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a> </span></div>With our Open Mic coming up on Friday (7:30 sign up/8pm start)... I wanted to mention how great last month's Community Open Mic was, and post some photos of the fun. This month when you take the stage you can get hooked up with a Shaky Tree Community Open Mic magnet or button. <br /><br />Our open mic has become a signature event at the Tree... and in many ways is a great definition of what Shaky Tree is all about. I say this because it is an event where we create an intentional, safe space for the community to gather and share their stories. <br /><br />Never been? Here is how it works: If you are interested in sharing (a song, a poem, or just about anything), show up around 7:30pm to get a 10min slot. You do not have to fill that 10 minutes, but please don't go over it. We will make a roster for the night, filling the time between 8pm-10pm (with a short break in the middle). Shaky Tree is a listening environment, and open mic is no exception... so you will have an attentive, and supportive audience. We encourage people to stick around and listen to what everyone has to offer.<br /><br />Through our open mic I have witnessed first time performances of original songs, people transforming perceptions from stage, tears, laughter, seasoned professionals trying new songs, self therapy, fun, growth... and most of all community. And I am so thankful for it all.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-58868117438423972502008-04-10T10:06:00.000-07:002008-04-10T10:22:08.383-07:00Indie Coffee Shops!Just found a site devoted to Indie Coffee Shops on a random <a href="http://google.com" target="_blank">google</a> search of <a href="http://shakytree.com" target="_blank">Shaky Tree</a>... here is <a href="http://www.indiecoffeeshops.com/?q=node/1325" target="_blank">our page</a>.<br /><br />Good stuff.<br /><br />P.S. if you are ever traveling some where and want to find coffee (good coffee), ask us for some our favorites around the country... or check great sites like <a href="http://www.indiecoffeeshops.com" target="_blank">Indie Coffee Shops</a>, or <a href="http://www.espressomap.com" target="_blank">Espresso Map</a> (devoted to 'spro)... they have maps to get you to your beautiful cup on the road.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-73495703997918531182008-04-04T12:06:00.000-07:002008-04-04T12:08:20.753-07:00No Foolin' In AprilThis month has a diverse and exciting line up... <br><br>April will kick off with <a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm1pY2hhZWxtdXJwaHltdXNpYy5jb20v" target="_blank">Michael Murphy</a> on Saturday the 5th (8pm). Michael will bring his respected storytelling to the Shaky Tree, playing both guitar and Native American flute. <br><br>Next in line will be YOUR chance to take the stage... with the Shaky Tree Community Open Mic. We had a really great turn out last month with lots of first time performers. Get there early (by 7:30pm) to reserve your spot (please keep it to 10min or under)... show will start at 8pm. If you have any questions about how Open Mic works or other details give us a call (or drop by) and ask.<br><br>If you like a well worn, Americana/Country sound... then don’t miss Mike McDermott of <a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vc2lsdmVyaGFuZHNtdXNpYy5jb20vbXVzaWMuYXNweA==" target="_blank">Silverhands</a><br> on a rare Wednesday night show, April 23rd (7:30pm). With both Seattle and Iowa ties... this show is sure to be a unique show for our Spencer music scene.<br><br>Two nights later don’t miss the return of <a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vd3d3LmRhbmNvaGVubXVzaWMuY29tLw==" target="_blank">Dan Cohen</a>... more than a few people count Dan’s first show at the Tree among their favorite shows... so we are all excited for the sounds of Dan’s excellent guitar work, clever lyrics and enjoyable stage presence. Make sure you get to the Tree April 25th (8pm) for this great show.<br><br>Lots of new stuff has been added to our online <a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vd3d3LnphenpsZS5jb20vVHJlZUJlZA==" target="_blank">shop</a>... stop by and check it out.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-36079500634753350362008-03-23T15:29:00.001-07:002008-03-23T15:31:45.555-07:00Shaky Tree Field Trip to Cherokee<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2355200145/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2230/2355200145_69787a3edd_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/2355200145/">Shaky Tree Field Trip</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a> </span></div><a href="http://anotherstreasure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad Elliott</a> had a show down in Cherokee at <a href="http://myspace.com/thegatheringplacecherokee" target="_blank">The Gathering Place</a>... we had heard good things about what was going on down there... so we loaded up, and went. <br /><br />What we found was a great venue, full of great people, ready for great live music... and I am pretty sure no one left disappointed. At one point I couldn't help but smile, because I was fully aware that <i>this</i> was what it is all about. It doesn't get much better than people gathering in community to enjoy being alive.<br /><br />In the smaller context of NW Iowa... it was a chance for the "cross-pollination" of energy in the the growing music/art culture. I hope to see further collaboration between Shaky Tree/Spencer and The Gathering Place/Cherokee in the future.<br /><br />Thank you to the Gathering Place for hosting, thank you Chad and crew for performing, and thanks to all the people who made their way to the show (many of whom came down from Spencer).<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-16295980471967102432008-03-07T12:27:00.000-08:002008-03-11T10:18:46.636-07:00March Madness... without the HoopsMarch is jam packed with tunes at the Shaky Tree... If you missed the first show of the month with <a href="hhttp://www.thestereofidelics.com/" target="_blank">the Stereofidelics</a>... I highly suggest you keep your ears open for the next time they roll through (maybe this summer). They were awesome!!!<br /><br />However, don't be too sad... you can still catch plenty of GREAT music this month... starting Saturday the 8th, with <a href="http://www.myspace.com/matderiso" target="_blank">Mat D</a>. This is a re-scheduled show that you don't want to miss, and Mat will put on a show that will be heartfelt as well as fun. Catch one of the best, in a growing movement of mid-west song writers, for his second appearance on our stage.<br /><br />Next in line is <a href="http://www.kevinmileski.com/" target="_blank">Kevin Mileski</a> (canceled). This Colorado based singer/songwriter is sure to create a fan-base in Spencer, with his finger-style guitar playing and vocals hailed as, the "new style for any generation". Come support live music in Spencer March 15th, with Kevin Mileski.<br /><br />Come out to the Tree for a rare Wednesday night show (March 26th - 7:30pm) with <a href="http://www.atomika.co.uk/loubrown/" target="_blank">Lou Brown</a>. Lou wins the award for "longest distance traveled to play at the Tree"... Lou brings her musical talent all the way from England to share with us. We want to show Lou why musicians across the country (and the world) are wanting to play at the Tree... the amazing audiences we create!!!<br /><br />Right after Lou is YOUR chance to take the Shaky Tree stage... at the <b>Shaky Tree Community Open-Mic, March 28th-8pm</b>. We are cultivating local talent and building community in one jam-packed night. If you are interested in participating... show up at 7:30 and sign-up for a 10 min slot (you may get multiple slots if available, but please keep each spot to ten min or less)... performers start at 8pm. If you have ever wondered what its like to share your songs, poems, comedy, magic tricks (or about anything else) with the world from a stage... then our Community Open-Mic is your chance. This is a safe and supportive atmosphere (we ask all participants and audience members to work towards this), so stop by and check it out. <br /><br />Winter is on its way out... what better way to celebrate than to get out and see friends and family at <a href="http://shakytree.com" target="_blank">Shaky Tree Coffee</a>... <b>where Coffee, Creativity & Community meet</b>.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-6376683504174721362008-01-01T11:42:00.000-08:002008-01-01T12:46:02.504-08:00BIG Weekend!!!December is generally a busy time of year, filled with many events and special occasions... The weekend of December 14-16th was a trio of such events at the Tree. <br /><br />The weekend started off with the saying, "third time is the charm" in bringing <a href="http://www.truckstopsouvenir.com/" target="_blank">Truck Stop Souvenir</a> to the Shaky Tree stage. After being scheduled for two other occasions and being foiled by illness, and vehicle breakdown (you can't really call yourself a musician unless you have car trouble along the way)... we were finally treated to the pleasures of listening to this married duo. I particularly enjoyed hearing other "coast dwellers" (they moved to Iowa from Seattle) talk about the joys that could be found in rural Iowa life. <br /><br />The next night I was blown away by the presence and depth of performance by <a href="http://www.noahearle.com/" target="_blank">Noah Earle</a>. <a href="http://anotherstreasure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad</a> and I met Noah's <a href="http://www.myspace.com/7nathanjames7" target="_blank">brother</a> this summer in Portland, and he mentioned that Noah played Iowa a fair bit and we should get him up to the Tree... I did not know at the time we would be in for such a show. We also didn't know that when we rescheduled Truck Stop Souvenir and Noah for the same weekend, that they knew each other. This was a highly anticipated weekend that lived up to its billing in every respect. Both nights of music pushed me to want to elevate my own <a href="http://www.myspace.com/treebedmusic" target="_blank">music</a>. I am continually amazed at the amazing talent I have heard while in Spencer.<br /><br />To round out the weekend we had a "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iowa_caucus" target="_blank">caucus</a>-know-how" night. Growing up in the NW, I had never caucused... nor did I really understand how it worked. As this "circus", known as the Iowa campaign, progressed I found I was not alone in my lack of understanding about the caucus. There are many who have lived here their whole lives and have never caucused. So, we got some of the campaign organizers from the different candidates in town, and we put together and evening to educate people about the process. This was not a night about <a href="http://www.barackobama.com/" target="_blank">Obama</a>, <a href="http://www.hillaryclinton.com/splash/" target="_blank">Hilary</a>, or <a href="http://www.johnedwards.com/splash/" target="_blank">Edwards</a> (or any other presidential hopeful), but rather deciding the important race for which Shaky Tree drink should represent the Tree. The goal was to have a non-intimidating environment to understand the caucus, and hopefully make it more accessible to those who might not seek out the normal political channels. I also wanted to get people together (campaign organizers included) and do something "fun", and recognize no matter which side you are on (party, candidate, even nation)... we all need to be on the same team at some point... we are a community of people in need of many things, and the only way those things will happen is if we work together as people. <br /><br />Results: 27 people turned out to caucus (on a cold Sunday night during the holidays... pretty good). <i>Coffee</i> had the most supporters (by one), but will be sending the same number of delegates (4) as <i>Chai Latte</i> (who picked up the <i>Tea</i> supporters when it was clear that <i>Tea</i> would not be a viable candidate). <i>Latte</i> had the remaining delegates (3) after bringing <i>Hot Chocolate</i> supporters on board. There was some great campaigning for drinks, "<i>Coffee</i> fueling the American worker", the "Health benefits, and Popularity of <i>Tea</i> around the world". All in all it was a fun night, and a great community event at the Tree that I was proud to be a part of. <br /><br />Check out our article in the <a href="http://www.spencerdailyreporter.com/story/1297765.html" target="_blank">Spencer Daily Reporter</a>.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-64572821463402562592007-12-10T07:56:00.000-08:002007-12-10T08:08:51.414-08:00Shaky Gear for the Holidays... or WheneverCheck out the Zazzle... you can now buy customizable Shaky Tree gear!!! <br /><br />How it works:<br />Click on an item in the box below... Choose the product you are interested in, pick a style that suits you, purchase it... they make, and send it off to you. Easy. <br /><br />Whether it is one button, or 50 postcards... You get cool gear, Shaky Tree doesn't have to hold onto a lot of expensive inventory, and TreeBed Design (me) gets a little percentage so he can eat (and keep doing fun projects like Shaky Tree ;-)<br /><br />Look for more designs and fun stuff to appear...<br /><br /><embed wmode="transparent" src="http://www.zazzle.com/assets/swf/zp/zp.swf?zp=117041850646701470" FlashVars="feedId=117041850646701470&path=http://www.zazzle.com/assets/swf/zp/skins" width="450" height="300" TYPE="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed><br/><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/">buy unique gifts</a> at <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/">Zazzle</a>TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-38957799461249958132007-12-07T15:41:00.000-08:002007-12-07T15:44:39.425-08:00Better Late than Never Birthday PostOne year of Shaky Tree... wow!!! So much has been packed into that year, where do I even start? It has truly been a year of COFFEE, CREATIVITY, and COMMUNITY... and I couldn't really ask for anything more. That is not to say it has all gone perfectly, and anyone who has a "perfect" first year of business is lying about it ;-) However, the trick is taking the hard parts/the mistakes, and using them... growing stronger from the whole of your experience. You never can predict what you will gain from any journey (especially opening a business), but I can honestly say that I have been blessed by the things I have been a part of through Shaky Tree during year one... and I am truly excited to see what comes during year two (and beyond)!!!<br /><br />Thanks so much to all who have added positive energy to Shaky Tree... whether through getting your morning cup with us, sharing your story as a visiting musician (or a regular at Open Mic), or lending a helping hand at some point. Shaky Tree has been a successful adventure because of the community that cares about having a place... a safe place to cultivate passionate living.<br /><br />Thank you to the <a href="http://www.quattlebaumphotography.com" target="_blank"> Quattlebaum </a> crew... for allowing us the chance to come into their space, and the freedom to follow OUR passions.<br /><br />Thank you ALL so much!!!TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-59547572574249980032007-09-02T14:36:00.001-07:002007-09-02T14:36:10.373-07:00Shaky Art Show<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/1305300109/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1283/1305300109_69030a736b_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/1305300109/">Art Show Rules</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a> </span></div>Shaky Tree saw its first Art Show this weekend... and an entertaining sight it was. There was a beautiful range of artwork, and plenty of creativity pumping through the Shaky Tree veins. Friday was the reception, complete with "Goodwill Formal" (or anything else fabulous) attire, snacks, drinks, and laughs. <br /><br />This was the first, and most certainly won't be the last Art Show of Shaky Tree... I look forward to what the next show brings.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-46906555981325765632007-08-08T13:31:00.001-07:002007-08-08T13:31:46.425-07:00TreeBus and a RAGBRAI recap<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/932556592/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1093/932556592_1807660c26_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/932556592/">TreeBus</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a> </span></div>So it has been awhile since a post has been posted... this is mostly due to the craziness that the past months!!! However, with that craziness has come some fun stuff.<br /><br />First... there was a trip out to Portland to buy a bus (see pic) from a group called <a href="http://www.sharedroute.org" target="_blank">Sharedroute</a>... then we painted it up (see pic). Then this little bike ride called <a href="http://www.ragbrai.org" target="_blank">RAGBRAI</a> came to town. So we sold some coffee, had some good conversations and enjoyed the insanity. We enjoyed it soooo much, that Chad and I decided to jump in the bus and join in... so we followed them for a few days.<br /><br />All was well... until it... well, wasn't. We had a little trouble with the bus. Yes, it wouldn't start. Luckily we were in Cedar Falls and not the middle of no where. This also brought the high light of square dancing to the <a href="http://www.thenadas.com/" target="_blank">Nadas</a>... good times. We did manage to get the bus fixed and get back to Spencer. <br /><br />Now the summer is winding down and we are gearing up for a busy fall... lots of music, coffee and fun.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-9532580770645220832007-04-29T10:09:00.000-07:002007-04-29T10:32:22.496-07:00Hit the SpotBeen meaning to get a post up for a while... so, today is the day. This weekend Spencer (just named as one of the <a href="http://top100.relocate-america.com/" target="_blank">top 10</a> places to live) was host to the <a href="http://www.spotkids.com" target="_blank">Spot Program</a>, a really neat deal with the <a href="http://www.uiowa.edu/" target="_blank">University of Iowa</a>. This was great on on many levels... One, it was nice to have people in who really <a href="http://spotkids.blogspot.com/2007/04/day-6-on-spot-tour-spencer.html" target="_blank">appreciate</a> what we are doing. Two, <a href="http://www.davidgonzalez.com/bio/bio.cfm" target="_blank">David Gonzalez</a>, the performer they brought to town, was telling stories and sharing in a way that is right in line with the roots of Shaky Tree. He is teaching kids through stories (and music), and the kids were eating it up! <a href="http://anotherstreasure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad</a> got to jump up on stage and share one of his songs. All in all it was a great connection and boost of positive energy for all involved.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-67480712375150928512007-03-01T15:35:00.001-08:002007-03-01T15:35:13.516-08:00Shaky Snowman<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/407147469/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/132/407147469_797fc1e0b3_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/407147469/">Shaky Snowman</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a>. </span></div>It will take more than a blizzard to keep Shaky Tree from the call of duty... ok, mostly we would just rather hang out at the Tree than sit at home. Today saw the birth, and sad demise of <i>Shaky the Snowman</i>. As one customer commented, "Shaky was a good snowman. We should all be glad that he had the opportunity to bring a smile to our faces during his short time with us." well said Darby. He had a Java Jacket nose and two pucks (that is what you get after the water has gone through the coffee to make the espresso) for eyes. It appears that Shaky Tree is the only business open today (even the gas stations are closed)... hey, people need their coffee ;-)<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-17599503093776709612007-01-29T16:29:00.000-08:002007-01-29T16:31:10.949-08:00Shaky Tree Song Writer's CircleGot Songs? <br /><br />Well, here is a chance to share them, work on them, get feedback on them... and hear where others are at in their song-writing process. We are calling this the Shaky Tree Song Writer's Circle, and our first evening will be Thursday Feb. 1 (and hopefully each first Thursday of the month). <br /><br />This will happen after hours at the Tree (7:30pm), so it will just be songwriters, and those passionate about song-writing that want to contribute positive energy to the group. We want to build a safe environment to explore song-writing, and create a community that values the sharing of those songs. All levels are welcome, from those who have a few scribbles in a notebook (and maybe aren't even sure if they could be songs) to those who have been selling CDs for years... we all can benefit from sharing the process. <br /><br />Chad Elliott and I (micah- TreeBed Music) will be providing some of the structure for the group, but this will be an organic process that goes where the group takes it. <br /><br />If you have any questions feel free to e-mail us at shakytree@mac.com<br /><br />Please share this information with anyone you might now that would be interested.TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36048475.post-49986722314109937152007-01-28T10:52:00.001-08:002007-01-28T10:52:01.815-08:00Shaky Tree News<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/370265883/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/166/370265883_b0a04e12b0_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treebed/370265883/">Shaky Tree</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/treebed/">TreeBed</a>. </span></div>We had a great article in the Discover! magazine this week... it can be a little scary when you have SO much information you want to get out to people, but this well crafted piece made for a nice introduction to Shaky Tree Coffee.<br clear="all" />TreeBedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15795631983032508645noreply@blogger.com0