I've been putting off a review of Willow House because it's like examining your childhood to me. Do we want to admit that things have changed? Can we let go of the goals and dreams we had? Are we willing to see it with new perspective, or will it always be remembered the way we experienced it then?
I've decided I'm not willing to let go. My favorite Willow House times were before the grass and the bubbling fountain. Before the new display case that totally cut down on the goodies they offer, but gave them more storage space behind the counter. Before it was taken over by AA meetings. Back when there was a whole living room set, in the living room - instead of just more tables. Back when there was a "take a book, leave a book" section that was always fascinating to peruse. Before they painted on the smiley/funky faces all around the top edges, and then years later painted over them in an effort to update their looks. But I still like it now too.
I still see echos of my Willow House now and then. When the crowd at the poetry night isn't too loud (We didn't use microphones! Who needs microphones? Wimps.). If someone outside is strumming an acoustic guitar. When the banter while ordering is just so. Or when on a quiet afternoon mid week you see folks hiding out in the small rooms working hard on a term paper - though now it's with laptops instead of our pile of books and note paper. (Dang it makes me feel old) I think the coffee/chai/italian sodas are all pretty good. The desserts aren't as good now as they used to be, but they aren't bad.
It's not a fancy spot, but it's a great neighborhood coffee shop. And for some folks, it's a destination spot. And for those of us who grew up with it, its just a soft spot in our hearts.