Just When I Thought I Could Get Away

I keep thinking I can give up the Starbucks and they introduce new drinks that rope me back in. I couldn't resist the Banana Mocha Frappuccino and it was delicious. Yeah, I know, I could have not gone to Starbucks, but I had to stop at the grocery store this morning to get sodas for a work lunch party (yes, I always sign up for something easy like drinks or plates) and walked in by the in-store Starbucks. So, I have a new favorite beverage there, for now.

And now, for something completely different:

This is perhaps the funniest hamster video I've seen. Go on, click on it. You won't be sorry!

Nothing To Do With The Price Of Tea In China

Now that gas prices keep rising, I seem to be driving all over the place. What's up with that? I know that compared to Europe's gas prices and what you pay for a latte from Starbucks, gas is a relative bargain. This past weekend, for example, I drove to Santa Monica sat on the 405 twice, both on Saturday and Sunday. I saw friends on both occasions, so it was worth it. Oh, to compensate for higher fuel cost, I've cut way back on my Starbucks intake. Jen, you'll be proud of me.

Oh Pooh!

A co-worker called me "Eeyore" today. Oops. I was trying to not let on that I'm kind of gloomy and not feeling very festive. We were doing our holiday gift exchange thingy and I picked #2. I commented that I was bummed to get such a low number. Well, it all worked out for me in the end. I picked a good gift and no one stole it.


It's a little green Starbucks tote bag with a travel cup and a package of coffee. I know, I know, I've had a beef with Starbucks lately, but I'm a sucker for a tote bag, especially a cute little tote bag I can use for work.

As for my snarky co-worker, well I gave her some snark right back later in the day.

Happy Annoyingly Expensive Pain-In-The-Ass Time of Year or whatever you like to call it. I'm going to take a nap.

Dear Starbucks,

Okay, so you got me in the door for your limited offering of the Peppermint Mocha. I realize that I often have expectations for how the world should operate that are just way too lofty. I sort of expect that if I venture into a Starbucks, any Starbucks, I'll get the same quality service and drinks. Boy, am I wrong!

Why is it that only about 50% of the various stores I've been to for the aforementioned beverage (5-6 total) bother to put on the red sprinkles? Also, if your perky barista is going to "get something started" for me before I get up to the register, why is it that the six people in line behind me get served before I do???

I will note that one of your locations in Los Feliz has the friendliest staff, the best service, and the most consistency with the drink-making. I will try to take most of my business there.

I just don't think I'd experience these same frustrations at Dunkin' Donuts. Oops, there I go again with my assumptions. You'd think I'd learn by now.