Arugularium was not the first choice of this morning’s group of four on this brisk, clear October morning.  They actually pedaled 8 miles from NE to Sellwood in search of the well regarded Living Room Coffeehouse, but then found out it is not open Sundays.  A couple of blocks away they then stopped at Arugularium, a creperie and bakery.  Though there wasn’t a wide selection of coffees, the taste of their house coffee passed muster, refills were free, and everyone was pleased with their various crepes.  Hang out-wise, though, there is a tug between coffee shops trying to build community and small restaurants where the turnover of tables is of prime importance, and thus their spaces are not designed to encourage hanging out.

A prime topic of today’s discussion – which included alumnus W from Mosier and semi-regular C who lives 2/3rds time in Denver – was the variety of forms that mens groups can take.   They are both in a group that recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a format of gathering for 36 hours 3-4 times a year in a rural setting, and typically devoting 4 hours Sat. evening to sharing and listening.

8337 SE 17th                                                          http://www.arugularium.com that