Precious few know...

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Friday, May 15, 2009 at 7:21pm | Edit Note | Delete
For several weeks I availed myself of the $3.79 8 cup French Press of my choice, Komodo Dragon, Caffe Verona, Ethiopia Sidamo, Cafe Estima. Each provided a tasty interlude to the day. One bright, breezy Saturday morning I had a fit of nostalgia. For French Press I selected my original introduction to Starbucks, The House Blend.

House Blend, a perfect brew at a reasonable price. Attributes for which it was doomed by the vice of corporate avarice. House Blend, no longer the daily brew. In SBUX's nascent years you could count on a quick cup of this friendly brew in the middle of a shiny or dismal afternoon. Now, if you haven't time for a special request of the 8 cup French Press, nor a desire for a $3.50 concoction of carmel and whipped cream or the common "Americano", you my friend, are mercilessly cajoled to drink the dark dishwater, the Pike's Place. After all, it's ready now and Don't you Need To Be Somewhere? Don't you?

Gag.

"I love House Blend." I said.
"Sir...", when your beard is grey it's a common form of address. "...if you purchase theentire pound you can return with that coffee and request we make you an 8 cup French Press using your pre-purchased beans."
"How much does that cost." I questioned.
"Since you've already purchased the beans, there is no additional charge, Sir." The barista patiently waited while I processed this information. When not forcing you to imbibe in the dark dishwater they are quite pleasant.

Pros:
I won't have Half & Half turning to buttermilk in my refrigerator.
I enjoy the chatter of caffeine cranked coffee consumers on the weekend, so i may as well come here

Cons:
Haven't thought of any.

Result:
"I'll take it."
So, Constant Reader, with you I've shared secrets others have not. I do so why? I choose so that I remain true to my edificatory nature.

Tonight's Texas Hold Em tourney draws nigh. My departure in imminent. I'll stop for an 8 cup French Press of House Blend. No charge.