Things I can't live without...Cinnamon Dolce Americano.

I don't go to Starbucks as often as I used to. In high school and college, I was a borderline addict. (Ok, maybe there were no "borderlines" about it.) Anytime I was in a bad mood, my mom would tell me to do one of two things: go to the gym or go to Starbucks. Both worked their magic every time.

Now that I am living on an entry-level salary, my Starbucks runs are usually limited to the days when I unearth a Starbucks card in my purse that still has some money on it. Also, since moving to So Cal, I much prefer to purchase my overpriced espresso drinks at Kean Coffee, for the simple reason that I can actually get milk in my coffee there (they offer almond milk, I could hug the person that made that business decision) and they also have a few varieties of gluten-free muffins in their pastry case. And ok I admit, I also love the decor...

Sometimes though, nothing satisfies my caffeine craving like a tried-and-true Starbucks original, especially when someone else is treating (which thankfully, happened this morning). A grande, 2-pump cinnamon dolce Americano did the trick to kickstart my Friday. It tastes like a cinnamon roll - except without all those nasty glutens and with caffeine. I can't imagine anything more perfect.

All things aside, being from Seattle, there is something truly comforting about the paper cup with that iconic green logo. Reminds me that I am never too far away from my roots.

♥mb.