January 14: Buying Americano

While all of us probably do new things each day, we also probably don't even realize we're doing them. But, when you attempt to consciously identify those things each day, well, that's a completely different story altogether. In doing so, you really get a true sense of how challenging such a feat can be. I've discovered this two weeks into this process, but what I haven't discovered is why I'm finding it so difficult. Maybe it's because my opportunities are limited, as I'm not some worldly traveler with new opportunity around every next corner. On the contrary, I work from home, so my environment is pretty much the same day-to-day; unless of course I take a lunch break and run to the grocery store or step outside to remove the dog droppings from the yard. Even then, finding something new in those activities is a serious challenge. So, why am I telling you all of this? Because my new thing for 1/14 pretty much lacks any excitement and power at all, and like any story-teller I just want to be confident you're going to stay with me on this one; even if it is more like an R.L. Stine novel, than a Stephen King. Are you ready? My daughter has dance class on Thursday evenings, so my wife treated me to a Starbucks along the way. Actually, her boss treated me, courtesy of the $25 gift card that he handed out as a Christmas bonus. I'm sure that $25 of coffee and scones more than compensates my wife for all of the blood, sweat and tears she gives to her employer throughout the year, so a sincere "thank you" to him (and a blast of sarcasm to be inserted here). Anyway, aside from their Pike Place brew, I'm a huge fan of both the Caramel Macchiato and White Chocolate Mocha drinks, not to mention the Chai tea. But, with the burden of trying something new hanging over me, I selected the Caffe Americano. The Starbucks website describes it as a "Rich, full-bodied Starbucks® espresso combined with hot water for the European alternative to American-style brewed coffee". Sounds intriguing, huh? I describe it as a strong cup of coffee; which I guess, to some, is what espresso really is. I wasn't disappointed, I was just hoping for something a little more groundbreaking (and a little more powerful in the caffeine category). But, it served it's purpose, and now I can return to the land of caramel and white chocolate during my next Starbucks visit. How much did you say we had left on that gift card, honey?