ONWARD

Growing up, I never thought I would be one of those people whose morning isn't complete without a cup of coffee. I guess I turned out differently than I expected. I started out enjoying the occasional latte at Starbucks, grew into liking coffee with flavored creamer and sugar, and have now matured into ordering my coffee as black as a politician's soul. I have learned to enjoy coffee so much now that I even read 300+ pages about it in Starbucks CEO, Howard Schultz's "ONWARD." Believe it or not, it is a romantic tale about coffee and Starbucks' fight to nudge their way to the top of the coffee leader board while maintaining the company's integrity. I never had thought about it before, but this company has earned my respect VIA the words of this book.

Pause for silent laughter over the VIA pun. :)

For those of you who didn't get the above pun, VIA is Starbucks' instant coffee that recently hit the shelves. I carry it in my purse.

I actually carry Starbucks' 40th Anniversary "Tribute" blend of VIA and have been savoring every packet since it's discontinuation. Since that sad day, I have not felt brave enough to order a grande drip of their house Pike Place Roast. Instead I have been taking cover in the safe zone and have been hitting the lattes. That was true up until today. Today, I discovered the "Anniversary" blend.

Yes!

Finally, Starbucks has done coffee right and I can even take it home in a stylish bag with a sweet mermaid on it! It's girly enough to leave out on the counter if I so choose.

Howard Schultz signs his memos not with "sincerely," "thanks," or "take care." He signs them, "ONWARD." It is a term used to inspire diligence, passion, perseverance. Basically, he means, "keep on keepin' on." So with that I leave you with.....

Onward,

Cassie

PS. I couldn't resist this.