Random Musings from My Trip to Starbucks

My goal for the end of the year is to be a more consistent blogger. In the past, I wouldn't have considered my latest trip to Starbucks blog-worthy, but in the spirit of getting into the writing habit - here it is ...

The goal: A late morning led to no packed lunch, therefore I was on my way out to snag some tasty Chipotle (this didn't happen, continue reading to find out why)

The problem: After my car refused to start for a good minute or so I was reminded that, indeed, I was nearly out of gas. The good ole jux-box (that's what I just christened my car, license plate ending in JUX) finally started and gas became my priority.

The solution: A trip to the gas station, then a subsequent stop at Starbucks for coffee as lunch.

The reason for this odd blog: Missing the Philippines - at the gas station I had to pump my own gas, the inhumanity in 30-degree weather. I no longer can sit in the comfort of my car while someone else pumps my gas for a 20-peso tip. This wishing for the Philippines continued at Starbucks, where I missed the baristas welcoming me by name and seemingly happy that I was patronizing their establishment. Instead, I got cold coffee that was only 2/3 full. I was driving in a car, so maybe they were being considerate. The second reason for this blog is realizing the benefits of the U.S. I drove to the gas station and Starbucks in less than 30 minutes, this included the time it took to get gas and drinks. This would never happen in the Philippines. I'd be lucky if I could get to Starbucks in less that 30 minutes. Once there, I'd have to pay for parking, another pitfall of the Philippines system. So it was a bittersweet trip.

The end result: Treating my co-workers to a much-needed, afternoon cup of joe. Also, I was successful in pumping my own gas, something I have only had to do a handful of times in two-and-a-half years.

Overall, it was a good lunch break, and I had a productive afternoon. I might have to make the coffee run a monthly habit, my bank account can't afford more frequent trips. I guess I will never get familiar with my local baristas and, most likely, I will have to continue pumping my own gas; I will have to save such luxuries as a memory of Philippine past-times.

Thank you for holding on until the end of this blog, it lived up to it's moniker - random musings.

(The picture is of my friend Ted, in the Philippines, drinking out of a ridiculously small mug. Not at Starbucks, but it's a funny picture and I wanted to use it :) )