Wiser Web Wednesday – a semi-regular link to posts of interest from around the web, by those far wiser than myself:

Pens! Paper! Pencils!
It makes sense that many pens demonstrate a fair amount of aesthetic similarity, for when considering really unique looks and performance:

…some pens are made to be admired from afar, some are made to be admired in use and not so many pens manage both.

Ian poses the question regarding readers thoughts on this at the end of the post. Me? I’m slowly but surely gathering more experience and will one day reach my own conclusions. Ian’s you’ll find in usual eloquence here:
Form Versus Function

The Pen Addict
Funny to hear the words “somewhat difficult to find” when reading a US site, which is typically reserved for us Aussies ordering from all over the world. So, with a nice range of Calepino notebooks at local online store Notemaker, I really have no excuse:
Calepino Graph Paper Memo Book Review

That One Pen
Reassessment of where things are #1, with some wise words indeed:

In short, I’m coming to terms with the pen/pencil person I actually am versus the pen person I want to be

How easy is it to get caught up in everything that is out there. All of the things that others seem to find some elusive magic in, that no matter how hard we try, might just not do the same for us. I enjoyed this post – if we ask nothing else of our blogs its honesty isn’t it? Herewith Todd provides all that and more:
A Conclusion But Not An Ending

Modern Stationer
Reassessment of where things are #2:

I’m not going to worry about building an audience or brand. I’m not going to check traffic stats. I’m going to write when I have something say and take pictures when I see something fun or interesting. That’s the simple plan for now.

Read this and tell me the simple plans aren’t often the best plans we ever have. All the very best Doug:
The Path Forward

Pen Paper Ink Letter
Having watched the stocks of these limited edition Baron Fig Confidants dwindle before my very eyes on Twitter, I indeed ultimately missed out. Citing my current temporary embargo on new notebook purchases (yes, to get through a few I already own) as the prime reason, I am left to read the thoughts of others:
Baron Fig Limited Edition: Work / Play (Dot Grid / Blank)

Pencil Revolution
A second link? What – to rub it in that I missed out? No, simply to offer myself a chance to say I am indeed proud of sticking to the non-purchase agreement with myself, and also to include a pencil first perspective from one-third of the Erasable Podcast team:
Baron Fig Work/Play Edition.

512 Pixels
Perhaps a little late to the party of Apple Watch reviews, however well worth reading precisely due to that fact:

I know this review is more-than-fashionably late, but it’s taken me this long to gather my thoughts. Something like a smartwatch has to sink into your routine before its true value becomes known.

In reality, I’d say any product requires a good deal of time spent determining how sustainable its inclusion in your life will be. I believe that to be true whether we are talking about a smartwatch, smartphone, fountain pen or anything else along the spectrum.

Apple Watch probably isn’t going to change your life, but it will make it better in a bunch of small ways. I find it a valuable addition to my life, but not everyone will, and that’s fine.

I’ve not found the need to save my pennies for one just yet. In future? Perhaps:
Review: Three Months of Apple Watch

Sprudge
I’ve never been to a Blue Bottle establishment, nor have I been to LA. I do often wonder about maintaining standards and the original vision across chain franchises. Granted, this isn’t your Starbucks, however the more that open…:
Los Angeles: At The Brand New Blue Bottle Coffee On Beverly Blvd.

Daily Coffee News – Roast Magazine
Of course they have:

Researchers at Purdue University say they have found evidence to support fat as a sixth basic taste, in addition to sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami.

And of course it is:

… the taste of fat, which the Purdue team refers to as oleogustus

All hail oleogustus! (So sorry). The article suggests acknowledging fat as a flavour has largely been held back to due to its use in descriptions such as mouthfeel and viscosity rather than flavour. Perhaps that is all about to change:
Chew on This: Fat Taste Is a Real Thing in Coffee and Other Edibles

CRS Coffeelands
As the author states, with no guarantee of return, it no doubt becomes very difficult to consistently maintain fair worker pay in coffee growing regions:

Prices can vary wildly from one harvest to the next and there is no guarantee they will exceed the cost of production.  In that context, even a conscientious grower inclined to fairness may have trouble complying with the dictates of law and conscience when it comes to paying his or her workers

The suggestion of deeper discussion through all levels of the coffee supply chain? Probably a good one:
Higher Wages, Great! But How To Afford?

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Wiser Web Wednesday – a semi-regular link to posts of interest from around the web, by those far wiser than myself:

Write Analog
I’m sure Mark isn’t the only Nock Co. “fanboy” out there, and with each product release, the fanaticism only increases. I’ve yet to get my hands on one of the new spiral bound notebooks, however I’m definitely a fan of the top bound reporter style notebook – and yes, Nock Co. as well. A stellar review post as always at Write Analog:
Nock Co. DotDash Spiral Pad Review

Lifehacker
A key component in sharing links and files in our household for those few holdouts with Windows laptops, Pushbullet now offers a full desktop SMS client. I’m yet to break the good news to my daughter how very handy this will be for “how’s your homework going” prompts. Right there. On her very desktop. Such thoughtful people:
Pushbullet Adds A Full SMS Client For Texting From The Desktop

Trubaca
Arbitrarily determined values can be very limiting, none more so than those explained here in relation to the number of days “post roast” you can expect your coffee to result in a decent cup. I’ve been surprised by both day one or two, as well as those stretching a good 14 days and beyond. It is at least worth giving them a try – after all, why waste great coffee? That’s my amateur opinion anyway, though you needn’t trust me:
How Fresh Is It? Words from Pete Licata

Femsplain
A different point of view can be surprising, enlightening and face-palmingly obvious all at once, as was the case when I read this piece on Femsplain (hat tip to Matt Gemmell for the site recommendation). Now firmly in my RSS feed, Femsplain is:

A community for everyone, powered by personal contributions from anyone female-identified

Indeed a lot of great stuff here, of which this is just a sample:
Checking The Hell Out Of My Internalized Misogyny

Crónicas Estilográficas
Although already at part III, linked here is the introductory post at the beginning of a series on Pilot nibs. Of course I own none of those discussed here, however Pilot make some of my favourite nibs, and I am certainly keen to learn more on the origins and evolution of the brand:
Early Pilot Nibs. I. Introduction

Three Staples
I’ve rationalised my notebook spending a little of late, planning to work through a stack I have stashed in a shoebox. In line with this thinking, I had therefore decided prior to its release this edition would be a “no go”. A great review, and I guess as close as I’ll get to actually owning a set (yes of course I kept my word):
Field Notes Colors: Workshop Companion

Baron Fig
Probably disregard what I said above, for I’m definitely going to pick up one of these (unless they sell out first). I love the dark look and the dot-grid / plain page combination. Spot on Baron Fig. Spot on:
The WORK / PLAY Limited Edition

Ulysses Blog
With the latest release of the writing app Ulysses comes automatic backups for Mac (story locally). Explained further in the Ulysses FAQ’s, minds can now rest somewhat easier:
Writers, Relax – Automatic Backup Is Coming

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Wiser Web Wednesday – a semi-regular link to posts of interest from around the web, by those far wiser than myself:

Gorgeous.Ink
Do I have enough? Too much? What if that isn’t the pen I want to use on a particular day and I don’t have any others? All valid questions regarding pen and paper prior to departing on a trip (at least in my opinion anyway) — and thankfully for others as well. These questions and more, definitively answered by Paul with a graphite and paper combination all of his own. Look forward to hearing how the trip went:
On The Road Stationary, Yukon Style

The Guardian
Fightin’ words in relation to “craft coffee”:

Not for the first time, the “craft” movement is slowly and earnestly sucking the joy out of something that isn’t half as complicated or important as some people think it is.

Incidentally, is that the same as “specialty coffee” – I’m not sure, but whatever it is, the author takes a rather dim view of same. In any event, though not totally without foundation, the usual over-generalisation which assumes there is inherent fault in any establishment caring about what they serve. To be fair however, it is often not necessarily what you serve, but how you serve it:
‘Craft’ coffee is becoming the province of chin-stroking joy thieves

Mark Bylok
Whiskey reviews are at times intimidating, and as a result can be less than helpful. Short, informative, and to the point can have a lot going for it. Mark Bylok tweaks his formula for reviewing whiskey, and a star (or four) is born:
An Update To How I Write Whisky Reviews

JetPens
A very informative and well illustrated guide to cleaning fountain pens if you are new to the nib and ink game. A little Googling will come up with similar tips and equipment, however I thought this was quite comprehensive and easy to follow:
How to Clean a Fountain Pen

Curious Rat
The way the online pen community works generally is that you stumble across it, and suddenly you’re smack bang in the middle of it — somehow bypassing the “I’m new / Be kind / I hope I fit in” awkwardness. Such is the generosity and willingness of the community to embrace all members great and small. Another example here:
Penciling in a New Passion

Alt. Haven
Whilst not likely to see use as an everyday writer for Junee given the soft fine nib, a gorgeous pen nonetheless:
Review: Pilot Custom Heritage 91

Ed Jelley
Why not add another to the Pilot Custom review links today? Another gorgeous pen, the Custom 823, this time with an Architect grind on the medium nib. I haven’t given much thought to custom nib grinds as yet, however I have taken quite a liking to the entire Custom series:
Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen With Architect Grind Review

Dispatches From Bergen
I must admit to being a little lazy about processing the photos I take on my iPhone, however have begun to tweak a few things in an attempt to improve the photos on my blog. Yes, there are much better ways to do so (like using an actual camera), however it’s a start right? The Darkroom Sunday School series has been a decent place to start, the latest of which:
Darkroom Sunday School: Adopting a Workflow

Gourmet Pens
As word gets around on the performance of Staedtler’s steel nibs I’m sure they will become popular additions to many a pen collection. The usual high quality words and luscious pictures of a Gourmet Pens review:
Review: Staedtler Initium Metallum Fountain Pen

The Fountain Pen Quest
A three-year wait comes down to a pointy end decision — so often the case when an item is discontinued — pen or otherwise. This one looks a beauty. Having recently been lucky enough to acquire my first Sailor pen, I’ll be keen to hear more about this one:
This Just In: Sailor Professional Gear Regency Stripe

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Wiser Web Wednesday – a semi-regular link to posts of interest from around the web by those far wiser than myself:

Apple
An early morning start to put the finishing touches on today’s WWW post coincided nicely with the release of the iOS 8.4 update in Australia (218 MB, iPhone 6; 212 MB, iPhone 5s; 153 MB, iPhone 4s). It may or may not be ironic the final link (being this one), was written listening to Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood on Beats 1 Global Radio.

I’m very much looking forward to trying things out over the next 3 months before deciding on whether an ongoing subscription is in order, with the Australian monthly pricing for Apple Music $AU11.99 (single user) or $AU17.99 (family plan; up to 6 members). With Family Sharing set up in preparation, we have 3 months to decide:
Apple Music

From The Pen Cup
Although scribble is one of two terms forever changed in my mind by past discussion on a certain podcast about pens, I guess we cannot be held responsible for other’s mistakes. I come open-minded and fully prepared to forgive Lamy, and this review by Mary seals the deal. Such a great design:
Another Hole In My Head: The Lamy Scribble 0.7 mm Pencil

Ed Jelley
Having used variations from the darker blue and black spectrum as everyday inks, I invariably turned to lighter blues. Spending all day in the black and white photocopied/printed world of a corporate office, it’s nice to see a vibrant blue jump out at you. That, and some other great suggestions here:
5 Best Inks for Everyday Use

Pens.com
For starters, I didn’t actually know there were 5000 different personality traits, let alone that my hand writing could help identify some of these. It would no doubt be a fun exercise to actually sit and write down (see what I did there) the list of traits from each section and see exactly who I really am — you know — inside:
What Does Your Handwriting Say About You?

The Pen Addict
We all have our favourites which we settle into over time. My definitive carry? I definitely haven’t found it yet and perhaps secretly desire not to. We all have to have goals don’t we? As good a combination as you’ll see:
June Stationery Carry

Distracted Blogger
Hot on the heels of the recent post on my favourite podcasts, Aaron Mahnke, creator and host of the wonderful Lore, answers a few questions on the ideas behind, and creation of, his great show.
Your Newest Podcast Addiction: Lore

Colonna and Smalls
A fascinating part in the larger discussion around espresso dosing and the concept of evenness in extraction.
What’s Your Real Dose?

Australian Digital Alliance
The recently passed website blocking bill is now in force in Australia, and it appears some applications are soon to have their day in court. How things play out and how effective the legislation ultimately is remains to be seen, particularly with varying results in other countries:
Site blocking bill goes into force in Australia

Tamper Tantrum (via Eventbrite)
With proceeds going to charity, is this the ultimate and definitive coffee competition to rule them all? Willing contestants are required to throw a bag of roasted coffee beans (minimum weight 1kg) as far as they can without breaking the integrity of the bag and spilling even a single bean.

Contestants are encouraged to pick the variety, roast, process and flavour profile of their chosen coffee  in accordance with their throwing technique and will be asked to explain their coffee choice and throwing technique to the judge(s) before completing their throw (maximum of five minutes allowed per competitor)

So, obviously there is considerable skill involved, which will only get you so far, with rule 7 stating:

The “Random Disqualification Klaxon” will disqualify the incumbent thrower for no particular reason at a random time in the competition.

Fun times ahead:
Irish National Coffee Throwing Competition – Dublin

Macworld
I hash out many a post outline and much more with MindNode 2, which syncs wonderfully my iOS devices. If you are considering a mind mapping application, this is well worthy of being in the mix. The simple, efficient interface ensures you will be up and brainstorming in no time:
MindNode 2 review: Makes Mac brainstorming a breeze

Wiser Web Wednesday – a semi-regular link to posts of interest from around the web by those far wiser than myself:

Fountain Pen Economics
After reading each daily post as it came out last week, I am now looking forward to going back and reading them again as the one long form piece. It will be worth the time to think a little more and digest what is a very well researched and put together view on how we look at — and describe — the aesthetic value of our pens.

Reading more deeply about the field has given me the opportunity to think about pens, our experience of them, and our community, and some insights that might help us better understand the relationship between these three

To say there are aspects in this post beyond our usual thinking about pens and the way we describe them is certainly an understatement. A great read:
Fountain Pen Aesthetics

The Frugal Fountain Pen
A timely post this one, having myself recently come across a batch of office supply pads in the stationery cupboard at work which happily accept my fountain pens without bleed nor feather (notwithstanding my sentiments in the second to last link below). Given past experience, a rare find indeed:
Staples Perforated Writing Pads

Burlington Free Press
An article about a coffee company yes, however linked here simply to highlight the principle of corporate responsibility, the value it has in developing communities, and perhaps some thinking around what would be considered a reasonable amount of a company’s bottom line dedicated to such:
Former executives: Keurig social investments wane

Trubaca
If you love your coffee — and speciality coffee in particular, you may be interested in where it comes from. With much made of the direct trade philosophy in terms of relationships between roasters and producers, a sobering look at why small-scale “cherry picking” of microlots might not always result in long-term benefit for the grower.

So let’s get real about why we do this and understand that seeking the most delicious things in the world and building sustainable partnerships do not have to be mutually exclusive.

A very thought-provoking post with some fairly compelling numbers to illustrate the point:
The Direct Selectors – by Noah Namowicz

The Gentleman Stationer
It really begins to hit home once some numbers are actually put down on paper relating to the vast stores of well…everything in a pen enthusiast’s stash. As Joe mentions in this somewhat cathartic post, it is very difficult to actually finish/use/run out of anything when there is always something(s) new and eager to take its place:
A Searching and Fearless Inventory

All Things Stationery
A consideration on my shopping list before I came into possession of the Pilot Custom Heritage 92 I wrote about over the weekend. I’ve always liked the look of the Prera by Pilot. Another day perhaps:
Pilot Prera Fountain Pen

Pens! Paper! Pencils!
A great review of a pretty ugly pen. Purely my personal preference of course, though I’d agree with Ian, this one certainly missed the design mark a little.

I’ve always had a soft spot for rollerballs — still do in fact — particularly after recently coming to the disappointing conclusion I was not going to easily wedge my love of fountain pen’s into my daily office use (a post for another day). A little replenishment of my rollerball stores is perhaps in order — as long as they look half decent of course:
Uni-ball Eye Needlepoint Rollerball Review

The Pelikan’s Perch
I love a post that I know will be used as a definitive guide of sorts when it comes to future buying decisions. This one is for anyone considering purchasing a Pelikan fountain pen (or more if you already have one – or some — of course).

A very informative and well structured post:
A Guide to Buying Pelikan

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