Behind the counter, Kim Kindred spends her days not only creating seasonal lattes, white chocolate mochas and caramel soy Frappuccinos, but also by bringing a warm smile and a piece of home to students visiting the Daily Grind. Kindred knows the regulars’ orders by heart and enjoys getting to know students over their morning drink of choice.

“I try to remember everyone,” Kindred said. “Sometimes it’s difficult because they switch it up on me.”

A De Soto native, she moved around until settling in Baldwin City eight years ago. Following a job at the local Kwik Shop, Kindred applied for a position with Baker University. With her new job, she has higher goals than filling drink orders. Kindred has hopes of making an impact on the lives of Baker students through her upbeat attitude and caring smile.

“All the kids really need something positive, especially if they are away from home,” Kindred said. “If they have that motherly figure, I think it really helps. They can come and spill their beans and that’s nice.”

Freshman Julia Southern sees the motherly resemblance.

“She calls me honey and I love it! It reminds me of my mom,” Southern said. “We had a conversation today about Target. She is really nice.”

Kindred hopes to make students’ days better, not only with caffeine, but with her attitude as well.

“I want everyone to have a good day and a good week, because I know it has got to be tough to go from class to class with homework and papers,” Kindred said. “If I could just brighten your day a little, it makes my day go faster.”

Students agree that the positive energy before class gives them a jump-start on their busy schedules and a more positive outlook for the day.

“Being a student with a lot on my plate, it brightens my morning. Plus I get my coffee,” freshman Bethany Oeser said. “Mornings are rough sometimes. I really, really hate mornings, but between the coffee and good vibes I get from Kim, it makes me feel like I can pull through the day.”

During finals week, when positivity can seem hidden, Kindred remains as optimistic as ever.

“I get asked that (how I stay upbeat) a lot and it’s mainly you kids,” Kindred said. “I know you have a lot on your plates going to school and studying. I figured a happy face and a happy smile will help you guys get through your day. You don’t want anyone to be down in the dumps, because that doesn’t make your day,” Kindred said.

According to Kindred, making students feel at home is the best part of the job.

“Getting to know you guys has been a blessing. A lot of people judge a book by its cover and with students you really get to hear and dig down deep on classes and things,” Kindred explained. “You guys make this job go by so fast during the day and I really love it.”

A daily goal for Kindred is making a difference in the lives of students and seeing them reach their goals before graduation.

“If I could influence students I would give them praise on what they’ve accomplished and what they are going to accomplish. I want to keep them on track and fill them with coffee to help them study,” Kindred said.

While Kindred knows all the orders of the Daily Grind regulars, she is rarely asked about her own; a self-proclaimed “Frappuccino gal,” Kindred prefers a Mocha Frappuccino with skim milk and no “gross” whipped cream.