Starbucks Coffee

Hi Cecile, Anali, and Matthew! Great idea for a contest! I love this kind of thing. I have always believed so many great Starbucks stories are right in the stores. I have to think about my entry and come back later, but just wanted to say that I am excited to read what everyone will come up with!

~Melody

Working at the Starbucks in Richmond Ky has influenced my entire outlook on how I deal with people on a day to day basis.  It has affected the way I do ministry as a youth pastor at my church and is affecting the way I take care of patients as a nursing student and future RN.  Working at Starbucks taught me that caring about people really matters.  I was so impressed by the way our manager ran our store- that my job was more than just selling yummy beverages and pastries, it was about changing the way a person interacts with their day.  We weren’t pressured to up-sell or push the newest thing, we were encouraged be a friendly face and care about the customer beyond the dollar sign.  I chose to run with that, and I made numerous new friends in the process.

I tend to be a pretty introverted person, but working the drive through window helped me come out of my shell and interact with people in a way that I normally wouldn’t.  Those experiences gave me the tools to be a better youth pastor, nurse and even a better person in my everyday life.  I see people in a new light.  I see that what is important in life is our interactions people and not our agenda.

I’ve been saying since I worked at Starbucks that it was one of the best jobs i’ve ever had.

I'm a writer, and my favorite place to write is at Starbucks. Aside from having delicious coffee on hand, the atmosphere is one that I find easy to write in. It's comfortable; there's a sense of community in every Starbucks I've been in. It's easy to relax because it feels like home—but without home's responsibilities and distractions. Starbucks provides me with a place to go where I can shut out everything else and just write. And when I walk inside and the Baristas greet me by name, engage in conversation with me, that's when I know I'm home.

I'm also a student, and when things get really hectic, when I can't find any peace and quiet at my apartment, I go to Starbucks. Last semester I did most of my homework at my local Starbucks. It became not only my favorite place to grab a cup of coffee or a Frappuccino, but also my haven; one of the only places I could go to relax.

What is unique about this sense of 'home' I find at Starbucks is that it follows me wherever I go—to whichever Starbucks I visit. Granted, when I become familiar with Baristas, it's more of a personal experience. Still, I appreciate the consistency from store to store. No matter which I visit, there I find a sense of familiarity. So thank you, Starbucks, for truly being my Third Place.

As pathetic as this may sound, Starbucks really touched me this morning. Today is my birthday. I recently moved to Texas for work; lived in Columbus, Ohio my entire life; I’ve no family down here and no real friends save for new co-workers. This is the first birthday I’ve spent away from home and the first I’ve spent alone. I came to work today, and despite a birthday notice going out just last week, not ONE person I’ve worked with now for months remembered or made mention of my birthday. Rewind to this morning at 6:30am, I headed out the door to work and stopped by my mailbox, and right on top of a stack of junk mail and bills is a little card from Starbucks stating simply “We’d never forget your birthday.” It was my free birthday drink voucher, not a day early, not a day late; right on my birthday, first thing. I immediately thought of all the nice baristas I’ve met and dealt in the dozens of Starbucks I’ve patronized, how pleasant they always are, and the new added touch of asking for my name to put on my drink and I took the remembrance and timeliness to heart. I know the mailing was likely automatically generated from my personal they’ve cataloged and it obviously didn’t come from or because of any of those nice baristas, but it was exactly what I needed this morning. As over-caffeinated as I already am right now, I’m very much looking forward to visiting Starbucks this afternoon when I get off and expressing my appreciation to the international corporate giant that looked down, saw me amid the masses, and wasn’t too big to stop and say “Happy Birthday.”

It was all about the encouragement. For a man to go from 300+ pounds down to 150 pounds. Starbucks was my little reward after the hardest workouts. It was the pick-me-up when I was feeling frustrated. More than that it was friendly faces and encouragement from the Partners who saw my slow progress and even an occasional doodle on the cup. They knew when I came in and treated myself with a scone along with my Americano that I had hit another goal weight.

Even now, years later I still look to going to Starbucks after an epic bike ride or as a pick-me-up when I'm down or have a rough day ahead. These little things are encouragement to press on. Some people love their pasta or energy drinks after a demanding workout, but I'll take an Americano and a petite scone any time (or maybe a Lite Frappuccino when its finally summer).

The story I have to share is much like the one of Starbucks as told in "Onward" - it is about persevering and overcoming tumultuous times. I worked in a Starbucks retail location many (8+) years ago and quickly came to know and become great friends with my many of my fellow Partners. I became especially close with one person in particular - I'll call her Suzanne. We had similar life stories and shared a common outlook on life. In getting to know Suzanne, I learned that she was a survivor of a very aggressive form of cancer. Naturally, this made me admire her even more - she was always such an incredibly brave, positive, and happy person! As we worked together, Suzanne started missing a few days of work, here and there. I thought nothing of it, but soon I learned that her cancer had returned. It was an incredibly sad day for us all, and it hit me even harder. My friend was sick. Her odds were steep. Fortunately, she had Starbucks on her side. Her Partner health benefits gave her piece of mind to fight her illness, and she once again beat the odds! Though I have moved on from that store, I am proud to still call Suzanne a friend, and I look to her as an example of what the human spirit is all about. Starbucks gave her new life, and ensured that a lifelong friendship would always exist!

Cecile: GREAT idea!!!  I love this, too.  I was on here earlier this morning looking for this, or whatever the 'event' was going to be but.....you guys are all too late out there. ;)  (pacific time)

I have to think about this and get back.

A question:  250 words or less?   I know that's not much.  yikes!  I'll have to count out the woerds....

Thanx for having this.  now I have to narrow down a story!

My story isn't special -- I'm sure the same thing has happened to many Starbucks customers. However, it makes me feel special, which is why I'm sharing it. I go to the same Starbucks a few times a week and the same baristas are always there. They always offer a friendly greeting -- asking me how I'm doing and how my day is going. They can often tell when I'm in a sad/bad/unusual mood, as they'll often go out of their way to perk me up. On occasion I've even been offered an extra shot "on the house" in an attempt to make me smile. It always works, and for that I appreciate my baristas, and my Starbucks, that much more.

As I am physically handicapped and don't drive, being able to ride my electric scooter to the Starbucks down the street means the world to me.  When I'm there, I frequently eat lunch, enjoy my favorite drink, read the newspaper, read and play games on my phone and chat with the employees.  It's become a normal and priceless part of my regular routine that I wouldn't give up for the world!

When I moved to Virginia over five years ago the first place I went to was Starbucks. It was like home, they knew my name and what my drink was, sadly it was one of stores that closed down. I had to change my store and was plesantly surprised how awesome they were. It is still my home away from home and they have even started partnering with our local YMCA were I work. Starbucks has helped with a number of events, and I mean more than just supplying coffee. They have helped supply kids with school supplies and new clothes to begin the school year. They have also contributed money to our YMCA in order for people to have a place to enjoy as their own. Without Starbucks in our community these things may not be able to happen. I enjoy Starbucks just as much as the next person, but they are much more to me than a place for coffee. Starbucks is a place for the community to reach out to and ask for help when help is needed. Thank you Starbucks!

It is more that coffee for me that turns me on to the company. I like the fact that @ Starbucks i can rely on a consistant positive experience. That make my life less stressful and when im having a bad day I go in to my local store and I get a Hello with a smile. =)

This is a wonderful idea!  I have to say I love Starbucks, I'm a little addicted.  I live in Northwest Arkansas, and we got a Starbucks a little later than most areas.  Once it was here, I was devoted as can be.  I had to move back to Wisconsin for a year to finish my degree, but Starbucks here in Arkansas served as a meeting place for me, my fiancee and my friends when I got to come visit.  It was one of the hardest years of my life, since I didn't get to see my finacee very often.  We'd go to Starbucks and catch up.  Our drinks have changed right along with us, from a Caramel Machiatto to a Chai Tea Latte.  Now we're married, and my new drink is a Hot Chai Tea with soy...still at the same Starbucks.

I also use that same Starbucks as a place to work, learn and write.  I am now on to my Master's degree with the Savannah College of Art and Design.  I take classes all online, and without Starbucks I wouldn't have a place to study.  In this area, there aren't a lot of study places, and Starbucks is perfect.  Thanks for a great place to hang out, catch up and get a great drink!

Melissa :-)

not open to Canada ,not nice !

Maybe a breakup tale isn't the first thing that comes to your mind when thinking of a fond Starbucks memory. For me, it is.

But it was eight years ago that my then-girlfriend and I finalized our breakup at a Starbucks during a cold winter break in college. I’d ordered a mocha and brought a few things to return to her. And we talked a little bit, and we gazed around that Starbucks where we’d been on so many dates together, and we parted ways.

It wasn’t until several years later, at my high school’s ten-year reunion, that I had the chance to talk with her at length. We’d both, of course, moved on, married others, started families. And we, with our spouses by our sides, chatted over the din of the reunion.

And just as we were about to leave, I stopped her and asked her what had changed in her over the last several years. With a sheepish grin, she said, “Do you remember what you said on one of your dates at that Starbucks, just up the road?” And we launched into an hour-long discussion of life and where we are and where we’re going.

As the night grew late, I grinned, and said, “Shouldn’t we be at Starbucks wrapping this up?” And we all laughed. Because it’s at Starbucks where we’d all fallen in love or fallen out of love or shared one of a thousand conversations that shaped us.

And I’m sure it’ll happen again.

I've had many Starbucks' stories and most of them have had revolved around my own personal evolution and giving back to the community.  

Most importantly, I've been able to invite people to meet me at Starbucks locations all over New York City to do vital work to help fight homelessness here.  At Starbucks, we have planned how to build our organization, how to create fundraisers, awareness programs and, to plan a Thanksgiving dinner that fed over between 40-50 homeless youth and volunteers in the area around Hell's Kitchen.

Further, because of the confined spaces in New York City, Starbucks has allowed me to have some really interesting conversations with strangers about books, news, music and the community.  Some of these strangers have even become friends.  

So for me, my Starbucks story is about having a place that always feels like welcoming and that I can always head into when I need a moment to center myself.  

Starbucks was my office and home away from home when I finally decided to quit my job. Without the gory/unnecessary details, I decided to quit my job during a time where no one could find work. Staying home was driving me crazy and I missed that 8am-5pm work lifestyle. That’s when Starbucks stepped in and became my escape to apply to countless jobs, interview, make phone calls, revise resumes/cover letters, connect via social media sites, blog and listen to the music that kept this drive in me going. Not only that, but my Starbucks had my “corner booth” where I could plan all this and make it a cross-country move to experience a new chapter in my life. All this was done along with a friendly staff who knew my name, go-to drinks and when/where I was interviewing. It was great to arrive back from interviews on the West Coast to friendly faces on the East Coast asking “The usual?” and “How’d it go?! When do you hear?!”. They even got “upset” when I told them I’d be moving from snowy PA to sunny CA for a dream job, although they were secretly excited. All in all, as stupid as it may sound to some, Starbucks didn’t give up on the potential I knew I had and the reason I knew I could risk it all by quitting. I knew the great things I was capable of and it was all done at Starbucks! Many adventures to come!

I worked at Starbucks for two years after graduating from college. In addition to having the coolest, most hilarious manager ever (I still laugh at our old inside jokes), I can also say in all seriousness that I owe Starbucks my life. If it weren't for the OUTSTANDING health coverage Starbucks provides to its employees, I wouldn't have been able to spend 90 days at a residential treatment center for a life-threatening eating disorder. The health insurance I had through my part-time job at Starbucks paid for a major portion of my treatment and aftercare, neither of which I would have been able to afford on my own. My manager and fellow partners were incredibly supportive of me, welcoming me back to the store with open arms once I was healthy enough to return to work. Today I am happy, healthy and living a full life, and while I no longer work for Starbucks - I have a job in my degree field - walking in the door of any Starbucks around the country still feels a little like going home.

In 2007, I became unemployed in an industry that was that was changing and shrinking.  The outlook for finding employment in an industry that I knew inside and out was dismal.  I realized that I was going to need to make a major career change and that it would probably take some time.

I knew that if I did not formulate a new routine I would soon become a couch potato.  So every morning, I would walk my dog Calvin, go for a run, clean up, grab my laptop and gp to the neighborhood Starbucks on Memorial Drive in Houston.  While I was at Starbucks, I would read the local paper and use my laptop to look for a job.  This was a Monday through Friday routine and in my blog I began to refer to Starbucks as my office.

I became a familiar face to the baristas and to the customers.  Knowing that I had a place to go every morning made it easy to get out of bed.  It really helped me to keep from going crazy while trying to switch careers.  Thank you Starbucks!

I am nineteen years old right now, and attending college at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. I was a trouble maker in high school, but during my junior year I realized school matters, and I started going to the Starbucks that just came to town to study. I loved trying all the new drinks, and it was just a great atmosphere to study in. I never did any studying before the Starbucks came into my town, and like I said, I was a trouble maker and a D student. After I started studying at Starbucks many times a week, my grades skyrocketed, most of them up to A's. I honestly have Starbucks to thank for my future. Without them, I would probably still be living in the same town I grew up in, not doing anything with my life. Sadly, the first Starbucks I had ever been to, and the one I used to study in, has since closed. But now I have one right down the street from my dorm room!

Thank you, Starbucks!

Have faith in your fellow man.

I remember the date, January 25th. I hadn't been out in a while and decided to meet up with a guy I had recently met. He was great. Unfortunately, the friends he brought along were not. To make a long story short, I had just bought a brand new wallet and filled it with everything (credit cards, gift cards, cash, SOCIAL SECURITY CARD), traded in all of my credit card rewards points for gift cards and made sure I had cab money to get home. That night, those guys stole my wallet and, pretending they hadn't, proceeded to tease me about how it must be 'karma' and I must have done something 'bad' lately.

I canceled everything IMMEDIATELY, filed a police report and reported the theft to the credit bureaus.  As it would happen, my bank canceled all but one of my cards and charges over $1,200 were racked up!!

I cried for days! I felt so taken advantage of used. I felt like I was 15 again--no license, no money, no credit cards, no gift cards, no wallet.  

That's when I contacted Starbucks and, because my gift card was registered, they sent me a brand new one!! I don't have the money to enjoy my skinny french vanilla extra hot lattes everyday, so I save them for times when I REALLY need an emotional pick-me-up.

This time, I didn't have let my latte console me--I drank it with a smile! :)

My name is Jamie and just within the last year have been able to enjoy the fresh and tranquil atmosphere of Starbucks. Upon my first visit I met a girl, while ordering a vanilla latte (my fav) she laughed and mentioned that her friend and I should meet, it is also her fav. I chuckled and we began to talk, she was from Germany and the most beautiful women i have ever seen. Long story short we worked together at a resort in Algonquin park, fell in love and recently met in OUR Starbucks in Toronto, after she flew back to Canada to spend this summer here. Its always our first date, the place to be, fond memories and we enjoy reminiscing about how we met, at Starbucks both miles away from home.

After working in an espresso booth at Roche Harbor Resort, San Juan Island, WA...I fell in love with coffee, especially Starbucks coffee. For me, Starbucks has been a way of life. It's something I do, like brushing my teeth. Everyday. Starbucks is a place to gather, refresh, find warmth, and enjoy. Life goes by too fast to not take the time to meet with family, friends, or new people. There's not a better place to meet friends, share ideas, all while building relationships. For me Starbucks provides an interchangable atmosphere...I meet busy moms on the go, grab a coffee with workout buddies, take daughters on dates (or the husband!) relax and write my thoughts, simply people watch, shop for birthday or Christmas gifts, reload my gift card (working on getting my gold card!) and so much more. It's not just a coffee shop, it can help shape the relationships of your lives. My cup overflows from Starbucks!! It overflows into my daily life...

I was going through a very bad time before the smallest thing changed my whole perception. I working long hours (20-22 hours a day at least 3-4 times a week) under the threat of redundancy, my partner left me due to lack of time together, my personal health diminished because I never had time for the gym or eat properly… Then one day I stopped at a Starbucks to get something for breakfast… The pleasant interaction of the person behind the till, the way they spoke to me like a long time valued customer who knew me personally and the very relaxed feeling the store allowing me to switch off for just 5 minutes. It all added together and finally let me unwind. I now take 5-10 minutes every day at a Starbucks (usually Castle Marina branch), I get a drink and occasionally an edible treat and just sit and stop for a few minutes with nothing else in my life interrupting. I still think it’s what helped me realise I couldn’t continue on in my old lifestyle. Now I have a new job where it’s a lot more relaxed, I’ve started back at the gym and am dating again… strange how one impulsive decision changed my perception and allowed me to just unplug and relax.

Thanks Ben.

After giving birth to my 3rd child, I was complaining to my husband about how tired I was.  I was expecting that he'd say, "Oh honey, let me make some time for you to get more sleep" or "I'll stay up with the baby tonight."  But instead he said, "Why do you think there's a line at Starbuck's every morning?"  Seriously, that was not the answer that I wanted to hear.  The next day, though, I got in that line and have been doing so ever since.  I just cannot start my day without the Starbuck's ambiance, the friendly atmosphere, and a delicious Caramel Macchiato!  Thanks, Starbuck's! And I thank my hubby, too.

Growing up these past few years, I basically lived at my neighborhood Starbucks. Me and my close friends would often get together in groups and play cards, games, do work, talk about life, or just kick back and hang out. We would forget any troubles we thought we had and just laugh together. While a little embarrassing to admit, we've even been shushed on more than one occasion for having too much fun. Starbucks has been kind of an anchor in my life, as well as the lives of my close friends, and it's wonderful to know that wherever I end up, there's usually one nearby.

I used to dislike Starbucks. I would go out of my way to avoid Starbucks and find some local coffee shop to give my business. Going to school at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., I was surrounded by several local coffee shops. Why would I spend my time, energy and coffee spirit at a big, bad chain shop? My junior year, I took an Entrepreneur class. We read a case study about Starbucks, how it all began, how it succeeded, etc. I was most struck by its social responsibility and the real care and concern Starbucks had for their employees and their local community. I never knew or realized the extent of their philosophies and morals, and how much they mirrored with mine.  All this time, I thought they were some big giant, out to beat the local coffee shops.  I supported local coffee shops because they in turn supported my community. Not only did they give much back to the community, they helped increase other coffee shops’ business. Starbucks made coffee lovers out of non-coffee lovers.

With the amount of coffee I drink, I wouldn’t want to share it with anyone whose beliefs weren’t the same as mine. I am proud to be part of the Starbucks family, and I feel good about sharing my morning ritual with them.

Cheers!

Emily

Starbucks has been my haven from work for several years. For a while, there was a shop right behind our building, and I’d grab a latte, run up to the special, almost secretive loft portion of the place, and daydream, filling up my journal and soaking up my latest book while enjoying my amazing coffee. It was like pressing a pause button on my day because, no matter how hectic things were, I could escape into my own little coffee-fueled world. It restored my sanity and allowed me to reflect in ways I couldn’t otherwise. And life was good.

Later, Starbucks took on new emotional significance for me. My job and life had become increasingly crazy – even soap opera-esque. A married coworker was seeking my affections and hijacking my work and social lives. One day, my boss discovered the intended-affair, in addition to me venting about her, through some work chat messages, and pulled me aside, giving me a thoroughly devastating and embarrassing scolding. When I went to Starbucks the next day for lunch, I collapsed in tears. It was that day at Starbucks, however, that I flipped open my Bible in an act of sheer desperation, praying for solace in the text. There, I read that God knew that I’d fall down – predicted it, in fact – but longed to be gracious and love me. And from that moment, in Starbucks, while drinking my Soy Latte, my life was forever changed because I suddenly experienced something beautiful: hope.

I work at Panera. I know, you may think you need to disqualify me instantly, but give me a chance. At Panera there’s an emphasis on customer connections. Making these connections is in the job description. But, somehow, my associates still aren’t good at it. And sometimes when I walk into other establishments, like Starbucks (which I go to often, I’m a college student and there’s a Starbucks three minutes away from my dorm and I have to pull all nighters often; caffeine and a nice study environment are a must.), I compare. It’s inevitable because of how often I have to hear about it at Panera. What have I found in my comparisons, you ask? Here are my conclusions: When I walk into Starbucks whether it’s my regular store or not, I’m treated like family being welcomed home. Other cafes welcome me and greet me warmly while MY Starbucks (emphasis on the my, it’s as much my home as my dorm) it is even more so. I’m greeted by my name and the other regulars also say hello to me, one of them has even asked to see pictures of the formal he knew I had the night before.  It’s a wonderful environment. If I haven’t been by in a few days they ask if everything’s okay. THAT’S what you call a customer connection, not the pathetic “Welcome to Panera, what’ll you have” greeting that my associates give. So, thanks for setting a higher standard, Starbucks, it’s greatly appreciated!

Starbucks is a source of hometown pride for me.  Having lived in Seattle for several years now, I have co-opted the city as my new home.  Among my favorite pastimes is spending an afternoon reading at any one of the Starbucks within walking distance of my place.  My wife and I have continued this tradition in the few years since we were married.

In a couple months from now, we will be embarking on a new life adventure by moving half way across the world.  The pursuit of new opportunities and the chance to spend an extended period of time living abroad is undoubtedly exciting.  Experiencing a brand new culture and way of life will be enlightening, inspiring, and fundamentally life changing.  Yet the thought of leaving Seattle, a place we have come to adore both for its beautiful scenery and source of opportunity, will be sadly missed.

More so than any token I can carry, the one thing that will remind me of home is the ability to enter a Starbucks thousands of miles away, order my favorite drink, and spend an afternoon reading in the corner.  In a life otherwise immersed in unfamiliarity, this action will not only allow me to reminisce, it will make me feel proud to come from the same place.  Amidst the excitement of a new experience, I am thoroughly looking forward to the small reminder of home that Starbucks will give me.

Hi, i'm a Italian teenager, unfortunatly there's no starbucks here in Italy but luckly when i went to London for the first time with some friends of mine a couple of years ago i went to starbucks and .... i loved it ! I have drunk all the tastes of frapuccino, and my friends too, they love starbuck as much as i do. Starbucks make me remember the great time i had with my friends in London, starbucks makes me remember all the time we spent sitted there having a frapuccino and talking about something silly just to have fun, it makes me remember all the challenges we did about "who had drunk more frappucinos during the day", Starbucks is much more than a coffee for me .... so if i had to answer to the question "how starbucks has affected my life" i would say that starbucks is an important memory i keep inside my heart that has linked and is still linking me with my friends (we're planning to go back to London and go back to starbucks)

i hope i didn't make any mistake (as i told i'm Italian)

It was in late summer 2010, my development team wanted to propose a solution to a tricky problem that was causing problems for our business customer.  It was already late into our SDLC and we were getting ready to go to production with the application.  This change we wanted to make was going to delay the release, but we believed it was the right thing to do.  I had already heard that our business partners were not interested in any more delays, so this was going to be difficult.  I grabbed my analyst and sent a quick request to a couple key business partners to meet us at the Starbucks near the office.  We got together, I ordered for everyone, having already learned their favorite.  I even paid with my gold card, which was a great conversation piece.

Long story short, my analyst and I had discussed the issue, the proposed solution and by the end of the meeting, these key business partners were on board and they were able to convince their management of the value in deploying late with this new solution.  We have now enjoyed the benefits of that for about 6 months and I still have an excellent working relationship with those business partners.

Starbucks was the grease we needed that day.  Thank you!

Recently I ventured to a new Starbucks to do a bit of writing. I was greeted by all the familiarity of my usual Starbucks but surprised to find a great feeling of warmth and excitement around me. My seat at the back of the shop gave me a prime view of the patrons coming and going. Nearly every patron was greeted by their name and conversations flew around the room with smiles, handshakes, and even a hug or two. 

It wasn't until the rush was over and the shop had quieted down that I received the biggest treat of my day (no, not a birthday cake pop even though I do love them), the baristas broke into song. At a glance this could be a recipe for disaster but the goosebumps on my arms weren't due to a draft. I have never heard such a fantastic rendition of "Build Me Up Buttercup." They had nearly perfect tone, pitch, rhythm, and harmony along with a beatbox performance that would blow your socks off. 

I do wish I'd had the nerve to ask them to repeat their performance for documentation purposes or at least a simple premonition giving me the foresight to turn on my iPhone and point it in their direction. But alas, I have nothing to show for it other than a fond memory and a new venue to continue my writing ventures. Thank you, amazing baristas, for giving me a story to tell and a smile in my heart.

Starbucks has been a part of my life since the beginning of high school...I have always discussed my problems with guys, school, girlfriends everything there with the people I love. To have something that is constant and so consistent every time with their drinks and services really lifts my spirits.

Everyone i know knows I love Starbucks so one time in high school when I was dating my first love, one of his friends worked as a barista. They had planned beforehand that the next time I came in the friend would write a love note from my boyfriend and he asked me to prom this way...I was so excited I started tearing up! Sheesh acting like it was a wedding proposal or something!

It happens every day somewhere at the Starbucks drive through window.  Simple random acts of kindness for total strangers: pickup the tab for the person in line behind you.  It happened to me several times before I caught on and passed the favor onto others.

A few weeks ago, I had to make a few (legal) U-turns and cut through a few parking lots to get to my local Starbucks due to missing a turn.  I noticed a guy following me, pull in the Starbucks line behind me then approach my window - turns out I had a minor problem with my car that he noticed.  He received a free Starbucks courtesy me.

When my small hometown lost one of it's few fast food restaurants and gained a Starbucks I, along with many others, were upset. One less place to get a quick bite in a one horse town is not usually considered a benefit. In hindsight however, Starbucks provided my friends better paying jobs, with benefits and more hours.

Now that I've moved to the "big city", my morning starts out with a coffee from great friendly people, who are excited to see me every morning, and yes, I am excited to see them too. They serve me coffee, but they are more than that. They are people too, they are students, mothers, and brothers, spouses and partners, but also, they are my friends. They care about me and it shows in their service, and that keeps me coming back for more.

My best friend and i go to Starbucks not only for our weekly (sometimes twice a week) coffee fix, but also to catch up, gossip, complain, and chat about our daily lives.

We don't live far way from each other, and could just as easily get together at one of our houses, but what's the fun in that? There is just something about going to Starbucks to talk that is so much more fun and exciting. We will sit there until they kick us out at closing time. We go there so often the barista's know our drink orders. It's comforting to have a place to meet up and get away from our lives for an hour or so every week.

Starbucks is our "girl time" and i look forward to it every week!

During my first year of law school I was at a Starbucks in New Orleans. Being in a wheelchair but not needing an accessible table I found a spot and began my work. I loved the location because it was right on a busy corner and I could watch the people pass by during my breaks. As I was sitting there studying a guy walked up and asked if I needed the accessible table he and his friend were using to study for med school. I told him I was fine where I was and we struck a conversation. Over the next few weeks we would greet each other on our daily study trips. The three of us became friends and I was quickly invited into their friends group. We would study but not talk “work.” It was a great set-up. Over the past few years we grew close and the friends group expanded. We got to know the baristas at Starbucks and even most of the regulars. It was our version of Cheers. Everyone knew your name, and there were quite a few who knew our stories. We are all scattered about the country now, between them doing residency and my move to the East Coast. However, we all remain friends and often reminisce about how our friendship started, all because of a table at the neighborhood Starbucks. Every Starbucks I enter reminds me of how I met some of my best friends.

My Starbucks Story: I am a recruiter for my company.  My job is to meet individuals at the competition, become friends and then be there when their career turns around.  The most comfortable place for me and my candidate is Starbucks.  

There are some days where I will interview eight people in the same Starbucks (Portland, Oregon-Pioneer Square).  The baristas are friendly from 8am until 6pm and don't look at me funny because I order a different drink every hour (with a different person).  Towards the end of the day it is time to get creative with my drinks (while staying low calorie) and when the going gets tough, the tough go to the barista for advice.  Green Tea latte anyone?  This drink saved my life!

Since I spend most of my days/weeks in Starbucks, I am really grateful for many things.....the music, kind customers and locals, god bless the awesome baristas (I have NEVER come across a mean one), the smell of coffee, the turkey bacon breakfast sandwhich and petite scones, clean bathrooms, great locations everywhere and the happy feeling you get when you enter the store.  

My favorite Starbucks?  I have no idea....they all are awesome!  I don't know if I would be as successful in my job without Starbucks.  

That is my story and THANK YOU, Howard Schultz for making life better in my world.  

P.S. Is there anyway you would consider making a "Reeses Peanut Butter Cup" Latte?  

My family used to vacation every summer in Seattle. I remember when my dad discovered Starbucks before it was even in Canada. He took us to headquarters when I was 15 so he could pay homage to the coffee gods. In 2003, my one-day husband and I met on a social site and chose Starbucks as the location for our first face-to-face meeting five days later. The rest is history. He bought me a Venti hot chocolate the night he proposed (to keep me warm outdoors) and we had wedding photos taken at Starbucks. We even gave away Starbucks coffee beans as our wedding favours to show the significance it had in our relationship. In 2006, I put on my green apron for the first time (I think it was my dad's proudest moment since I graduated college) and spent nearly two great years as a partner. I recently realized that since I'm turning 30 later this year, it means Starbucks has been with me on a lifelong journey for nearly half of my time here on earth.

About five years ago, I began to get up early on Saturday mornings so that I could quietly read my favorite book at the local Starbucks.  After only two weeks of my new ritual, my then five-year old daughter awakened in the midst of my escape.  She asked where I was going.  When I told her that I was headed out to Starbucks, she asked if she could come along.  What self-respecting father could refuse time with his little girl?  "Lori, add a chocolate milk to my morning pick."

Predictably, we had a great time, just the two of us.  My then eight-year old son was indignant upon hearing the news that he had been left out of the morning fun with dad.

The following Saturday, there were two children clamoring to go with me on the three mile trip to Starbucks.  So, I surrendered my "me" time to those two, leaving my book at home.  I had no idea what was happening.

For the next five years, nearly every Saturday morning, those same two kids have awakened me around 6:30.  They refuse sleep-over invitations on Friday nights because they protect their Saturday mornings with me.  They now argue over who will ride "shotgun" on the ride to Starbucks.  

We have watched baristas come and go, and we "break-in" the new ones.  We all know each other's names.  We have our same seats.  We have become fixtures in the Alabaster store.  More importantly, the three of us have created some incredible memories that we treasure.  And I never missed those books I didn't read.  

Starbucks is the one place that I can stumble into in the worst of moods and the warmth from the staff and the wonderful smell kicks me right back onto the horse and sets me up to get back to work and tackle the next project.

Well. I'm not to familiar with the coffee terminology at all. This is where I come once in a while to meet my "impossible" love. Against all odds, we meet to have our usual caramel machiatto. See he always thought "Starbucks" was for high class people, or stuck up at times. I introduced him to the starbucks world and now he can't live without his machiatto. It's nothing fancy or extravagant. Just a moment to love and be loved.  The smell of the drink and a stare in his eyes, bring chills to my every being. Yet so warm and a tender touch to my heart. A place where we can escape for a moment, a place oh so romantic for us. The wonderful smell of the many drinks. When we're away from each other, it's the starbucks caramel machiatto, that somehow brings us together. When I say starbucks, I think....mmm oh, how he loves me! :)

My son has autism and is non-verbal. As part of his school program, he works towards earning something he really wants at the end of the week. That would be Starbucks! He loves Starbucks and we can't pass one without him tapping the car window and pointing. I printed out pictures of his favorites, hot chocolate or a spiderman latte as our barista calls it and vanilla frappaccino. He hands his picture over the counter to make his order. One Friday he was having trouble focusing and not wanting to do the work. He was afraid he would not earn his Starbucks card so when the teacher was not looking, he took the card and put it in his backpack just in case.  I absolutely love trips to Starbucks with my kids and we have awesome baristas at the Millwood location in Spokane!

Lots of couples can say that they first met their significant other at Starbucks, but not as many can say that they met BEHIND the counter, as my fiancé and I did!

After working as an EMT for several years, Ryan had decided to go back to school to finish his teaching degree and had taken a part-time job as a barista at the same Starbucks store where I ended up working as a shift supervisor. Our friendship quickly started to grow. I loved chatting with him while we worked, or coming in a few minutes early before my shift to sit and visit with him in the cafe.

We remained stuck in that limbo between friends and something-more-than-friends. Though we remained totally clueless as to how the other person felt, our friends at Starbucks quickly caught on that something was up.

Finally our assistant manager pulled me aside and told me, nicely but sternly, that if Ryan and I were dating that one of us would need to be transferred to a different store. I was caught off-guard and in my embarrassment asked Ryan to grab coffee later that night at the local 24-hour greasy spoon to discuss the state of our relationship. We had an extraordinarily awkward conversation over watery diner coffee, but ended up disclosing our true feelings to each other.

Now we’ve been together for four years, and we got engaged this past Christmas. We couldn’t be happier, and we owe it all to Starbucks!

People close to me know my two greatest passions: music and a good cup of coffee. Being a student and working in the music industry, two come hand-in-hand. When I’m not sitting in a lecture or at one of my concerts, chances are I’m sitting in my comfy arm chair in the corner, drinking a red-eye, and working on my next event or studying for an exam.

One day in January, I was waiting for my coffee when I heard, in the cutest British accent, “Wow. That’s not my coffee.” I looked over and there he was, six-feet of dreamy, drinking my coffee. I approached him and told him that I thought he grabbed mine instead. He insisted on buying me another cup of coffee. I walked into Starbucks that day with the intention of writing a paper for my history class. Little did I know, I would be writing history of my very own. After a wonderful conversation and an exchange of phone numbers, I left Starbucks with a smile on my face and a date for that Friday.

Ryan, the dreamy guy with the British accent, and I have been together ever since. Okay, I lied. I actually met my boyfriend on the internet and that is the romanticized story that tell my friends because I’m too embarrassed to say that I tried a dating website. To my friends that are reading this: I’m sorry. Let’s get a cup of coffee and talk about it.

I just moved to Houston, Texas from a small town in southeast Michigan for a new job. Fresh out of college, I have never been away from my family this long. But recently I was waiting for my usual chai tea latte, and noticed the guy next to me was wearing a University of Michigan shirt. We started talking about it, and soon realized he once lived in Michigan- and in the next town over from mine. He worked at the same company as my dad and lived near my home church. Never have I felt more at home, than I did in a Starbucks 1,300 miles away from my home.

Starbucks has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Some of my most memorable trips to Starbucks shops occurred in locations  scattered across the U.S. and Canada.

Every significant event in my life involved - whether before, during or after - a Starbucks stop. When I first met my wife, on an arranged blind date, we went for a coffee at the local Starbucks in Toronto, Canada. Then, a short while later during our courtship, one late evening when we needed a quiet, warm place to talk - we went to a 24 hour Starbucks on Manhattan's west side. Next, shortly after we got engaged and needed a quick escape from the crowds at our engagement party, we slipped out for a late latte at the Starbucks at 18th and 65th in Brooklyn. Finally, on my wedding day, I started out the only way I know how - getting my favorite cup of coffee at Starbucks!

The influence Starbucks has on my daily life can be seen by simply observing my morning commute. To get to school, I have the option of using a few different subway lines that take nearly the same time. However, I will always choose to wait for one train that will drop me off at the corner of 14th and 6th in New York City so I can be at the door of my favorite Starbucks location as soon as I walk out of the subway station!

Much like the theme of this book I feel as though for the past 20 years I’ve been fighting for my life in attempts to salvage my soul. Fortunately, Starbucks has grabbed my hand and walked alongside me through this journey like an ole pal. I’ve been lucky to have such a faithful friend whose cozy chairs maternally wrapped their arms around me, whose tables shouldered the weight of 15 years of schoolwork, whose drinks warmed up mouths for conversation, confrontation, and reconciliation. Often times Starbucks was a home. A home that provided comfort and nostalgia but was not immune to awkward events or uncomfortable (sometimes even embarrassing) incidents. It is the place I have mended, ended, and spend…ed (friendships, relationships, and money that is). Starbucks has been there to help mend a broken heart, to comfort a heavy heart, to celebrate a joyful heart, to nurture tired tongues after a long day’s argument, and when I felt like all hope was lost Starbucks remained a constant-displaying the hope found in all the times we’ve been through and all the good things to come. When I look back on most memories I have a Starbucks cup in my hand.  In a way, it was a security of sorts. It was as though having a drink in my hand transformed me into a warm, bubbly, people-person who was nothing like my normal, nervous, stumbles-over-her-words self. I had an angel and devil on either shoulder and Starbucks in both hands.

It's all about the Starbucks experience.

My journey with Starbucks started in high school when I completed my homework and studying at my local store. I noticed the passion the partners had for their jobs and the vibrant atmosphere of the stores. For my high school senior research paper, I wrote about how caffeine affects the brain and health, sparking my interest in the coffee industry and specifically Starbucks. In my freshman year of college, I had a semester long project on corporate social reasonability. There was only one company that I could think of for this. In my presentation, I spoke about the health insurance, bean stock, and C.A.F.E. practices of the company. Then during sophomore year, I had a group project detailing the marketing and operations of a service company. I convinced my group to select Starbucks due to its integrity and everything I had learned about the Starbucks experience. We studied different aspects of the company such as distribution channels and service flow charts. Everyone learned and benefited from this experience.

My journal hit its peak when I loaded and paid with my Starbucks Card using the app for Blackberry. I was proud to be a shareholder.

I wish I could shake hands with Howard Schultz and personally say "thank you." This amazing company has been a staple in my life since childhood and a constant source of personal inspiration.

To step inside Starbucks is to delight the senses: I smell the rich aroma of coffee, I hear the hiss of espresso machines amidst mood-setting tunes, I taste an ideal balance of flavor, I see ideas dance in my mind and because of all this, I feel at home.

There was a time in 2007 that I began I to wonder if the company was slipping. I was encountering grumpy baristas, iced caramel macchiatos were not always properly layered and espresso shots often tasted burnt. I feared my beloved coffeehouse was losing focus. I even typed a letter of concern, and one paragraph in particular still rings true today:

"I don't go to Starbucks just because I want a cup of coffee. I go because the atmosphere calms and inspires from the moment I open the door. I go because I appreciate the responsibility to the environment. I go because I believe the perfect blend of fine espresso and nonfat milk is an art, not a pick-me-up. I go because the words 'happiness' and 'Starbucks' are synonymous in my vocabulary."

Thus, I'd like to thank Howard Schultz for getting Starbucks back on track with his insightful dedication to evolving while still remaining true to origins. As someone ridiculously passionate about coffee, Starbucks will always be my creative outlet.

Starbucks often talk of being that “third place” but for me, it truly did; you see, a number of years ago, I started a weight-loss programme, and recognising that a part of that should be a “treat” now and again, I started popping into my local Starbucks at the weekend after weighing myself. Starbucks was one of the places that had calorie information, and I knew I could choose something sweet to go with a coffee without ruining all my hard work.

I used to look forward to those visits, and as the pounds fell off, they became a real highlight of my week. The staff were friendly from the get-go, but as we became “regulars”, just seeing them smile warmly, and ask how we were whilst they got our order ready (which they always remembered), could lift my mood right up, especially if I’d not dropped any pounds that week.

As time passed, I found I appreciated those Starbucks visits even more, as I became ill with depression… those few moments of quiet time I got at opening time on the weekend mornings became a bit of a refuge for me in those dark, early days of my illness.

Gradually, I’ve got better, and now it’s a joy to visit each week, say hello to the staff and pass them the odd bag of sweets to share. Oh, and I dropped from 298lbs to 156lbs overall, celebrating hitting my target with… can you guess..,? A full-fat blueberry muffin and a Venti Americano with extra whip!  ;-)

Sorry, that should have been "it truly WAS", not "it truly did".

I was celebrating my first big payday as a professional speaker, heading home, when I spotted a Starbucks in the Dallas Fort Worth airport. Since I had an hour or more to wait--why not do it here?

It was there I met Clayton,one of the most unforgettable characters I've ever met. Speakers love to talk to strangers and hear their stories. Stories are the life blood of good speakers. Clayton shared his, and it was so incredible I wrote about it.

How do you get your graduate education paid for by your school, if you don't have a scholarship? Ask Clayton. How do you get your first accounting job in a big firm in a recession? Ask Clayton.

By connecting with this young stranger, this middle aged woman had her faith in the future restored. Thanks, Starbucks, for giving us the place to meet.

I have the best husband in the world as he is always doing something special for me.  Several years ago, he started SHD for me.  When he believes that I need a little lift, wants to start my day with a smile, or just wants to do something nice for me -- here comes SHD!  Recently I won a bet with my husband, and my prize was SHD for every day for a week.  As I work from my home office, SHD is always welcomed.  What is SHD?  STARBUCKS HOME DELIVERY--it's the best!

When Starbucks finally came to my town in 2007 I finally introduced my wife to a place that she could come to and relax with friends and enjoy a great cup of coffee with her husband and enjoy spending time with the excellent people that work for my local Starbucks.

My three children (ages 6, 9, and 11) love to go to Starbucks with me.  We like to visit after school.  I sip my coffee and the kids eat a snack.  They feel special and grown up.  Then we sit and share the day's events and do homework together.  Starbucks is a wonderful place to sit and unwind.  At Starbucks my children and I feel connected to each other in the same way I felt connected to my mother eating an after school snack at the dining room table.  Thank you.

oh.... I just was writing my heart out and boom...lost it all.   :(((((

now I have to re-group and come back.  

When Starbucks launched their new dessert line for their anniversary I was so excited! They had a great promotion for a couple of days where if you bought a beverage you got a free cake pop! I left work 15 minutes early and fled to the nearest Starbucks but they were soldout! Thank goodness there was another one down the road! My day ended with a Salted Hot Chocolate, a Birthday Cake Pop and a smile :) Thanks Starbucks, you rock my world!

Starbucks was my light bulb moment. You know the one moment of cherished clarity that saves you from the darkness?

I've always had a problem with my weight. And recently, I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with some health issues as a result of the way I've treated my body. I was sad, frustrated, and needed a warm cup of comfort.

I walked into our closest Starbucks and looked up at the menu trying to decide what combination of goodness I wanted in my cup. I literally felt the warmth beaming above my head. I can choose non-fat, full-fat, soy, extra espresso, whip, or none of the above.

My light bulb shone on the fact that I can make a lot of choices in my life as well. I can choose to be healthy, I can choose to eat better and put healthy things into my body. I don't have to be destined to be on a perpetual diet.

After I ordered my Triple, Venti, soy, no-whip pumpkin spiced latte, I noticed next to my name the barista had written "Be happy!" And I smiled knowing that was also a choice I needed to make.

I walked out of that Starbucks knowing I was going to choose health, life, happiness...and myself.

I worked at Starbucks for almost 5 years, from my senior year of high school to the day I graduated college. Originally from Seattle, home of Starbucks, going to college in Boston was a huge change in my young life. Not wanting to leave my job completely, I transferred to a Starbucks in Boston-it became the only familiar comfort I had to home.

Throughout all the changes in my personal life, Starbucks was  my one steady rock. Sure, it was work but it was like my second home-all the regular customers became my close friends and my coworkers were my family. Starbucks truly changed the way I view people and relationships.

3 years ago I met my boyfriend at Starbucks. I remember him showing up before work to visit me on days I worked opening shifts, bringing me homemade sandwiches during my lunch break on weekends, and coming by with the promise of movies and relaxation on closing shift days. Since then we’ve gotten our first apartment together, and next week will be our official 2 year anniversary. Our living room is quite literally full of bearistas which get rotated accordingly every season.

Starbucks inspired me to study communications in college, and I am now a young professional in the Marketing and Advertising field. I love it. I work in downtown Boston, and I know my local  Starbucks crew by name. I truly hope that one day, I’ll be accepted to work in the marketing department of Starbucks.

Starbucks went from a reliable, ubiquitous source of great coffee and Wi-Fi to an integral part of travelling with my newborn son. Starbucks is a clean, safe place that usually has changing tables in women's - and men's - restrooms. The coffee helped sleep deprived new parents. As my son has grown, it has been a consistant source of healthy, organic, nutritious food for him. He even has his own card to pay for his usual meal. Thank you for being a superior alternative to fast food at home and on the road. My family is healthier because of Starbucks.

My first ever foreign holiday was to the United States, way back in 1996, and the first bit of American culture I was introduced to, was Starbucks. I was immediately captivated!

The 'third Place' idea wasn't even official at that stage - but I knew what it was.  Coming home was a bit of a wrench, as there was nothing similar here in Ireland/UK at that stage.

Slowly, but surely, Starbucks spread it's wings - first to London, and then to Dublin, and then Newry (my local store). All along, every time I went to the States, I visited as many Starbucks as I could, appreciating store design, product range and staff 'attitudes'; and all the while waiting for it's arrival in a location where I could avail of it regularly (flying to the USA just for coffee was becoming prohibitive!).

Now, when I go to my local Starbucks (where I am writing this), I remember my many happy Stateside holidays, and I stand in awe of the 'Philosophy' which is at the heart of Starbucks - to inspire and nurture the human (my) spirit – one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.

My favourite treasured memory is when my local store agreed to let me have my 40th Birthday there. Everyone got a specially designed invite (featuring Starbucks), and no gifts were allowed - except, to buy a single coffee 'token' which I was still using long after!

Starbucks is not my third, or even second place - it's my first!

A few years ago I decided to chase a dream job, far away from the life I have always known. As I arrived early to a new town in a new state, for a job interview that could radically change my life, I decided to stop in at the local Starbucks, in hopes that I could have a little comfort from the unknown all around. I order my personal favorite of a Triple Grande Extra-hot Peppermint Mocha, a little bit of Christmas every time. And then I sat there... unable to consume my drink, for the butterflies in my stomach where having a hay day. I couldn’t believe it, my nerves where going crazy. So I sat there, looking out the window. Not know what to do next, I was ready to throw away my drink and go for it, but instead I decided to see what the “The Way I See It #17” had to say. It read “The world bursts at the seams with people ready to tell you you're not good enough. On occasion some may be correct. But do not so their work for them. Seek any job; ask anyone out; pursue any goal. Don't take it personally when they say "no" - they may not be smart enough to say "yes". ~ Keith Olbermann After reading that I went all in during the interview. A few years later the job continues to excite me, and I'm in love with the first girl I asked out.

I have been a Starbucks fan for many years. In the spring of 2008, I had been planning a formal wedding for over a year.  Then I found out that we were already expecting a little bundle of joy. It no longer made sense to spend so much money on a one day event.

To avoid the chaos of explaining who would be eliminated from our guest list and wedding party, my fiancé and I opted to have no attendants or guests at all. We would be married incognito, just the two of us, in a place we loved to go. We contacted a local minister that I found online and asked him to meet us at Starbucks to tie the proverbial knot.

On April 4th, I sipped a piping hot chai latte in my best dress while we signed the paperwork. We stood up and said our vows with a crowd of surprised Starbucks customers watching. I’ll admit, this was not the fairy tale wedding that I had dreamed of, but it was perfect just the same. I had what I needed: my honey, a preacher man and a lot less stress. Starbucks was just a perk. Pardon the pun.

It was a day I will never forget. The day my name and my life changed forever at Starbucks. I don’t have an album of wedding photos to remember my special day. When I want to reminisce, I just drive to a Starbucks and have a chai latte.

Nothing dramatic, nothing earth-shattering.  My Starbucks story is a simple one: when I discovered it, I discovered good coffee.  It has become a daily staple in our lives... helping us greet each day a little happier and satisfied for starting it with a good cup of coffee.  It's just become part of our lives.  Thanks!

It is funny how habits are created and one cannot remember exactly when they started.  They are just there.  A good habit.  One that doesn’t need to be changed.  

I grew up in a house that had both coffee and tea but the coffee was dark black and tasted bitter.  It smelled great but I avoided it and drifted toward tea.  This continued for many years until I travelled to Seville while in college.  There at a café in the beautiful Spanish sunshine I tasted my first café con leche.  It was delicious.  I sat there listening to a language I didn’t know in a world I had never seen.  What a happy moment!

So, as life moved on, I still remained naïve and didn’t venture past tea or even into a Starbucks.  Then one day in Chicago, I saw a young man exit a Starbucks with a drink that looked like iced tea.  Thrilled I rushed in to see if I could order one.  I sat their happily drinking my first Starbucks tea remembering summers drinking ice tea with my grandmother while sitting in the backyard draped with fresh flower necklaces and twirling our toes in the cool green grass.  An ‘iced grande no classic black tea’ became my drink of choice.  Friends teased me- why go to Starbucks if you are only going to order tea?  Because it is delicious and makes me happy was my simple reply.  

Then, the unexpected can happen.  One November before I turned 40, I was diagnosed with MS- a disease that only conjures up images of a challenging life ahead.   Because life can’t be planned, right after receiving the diagnosis I had to take my husband directly to the airport for a business trip.  While driving home alone with tears streaming down my face, I struggled to make sense of what I had heard and how I would tell our parents and our kids.  I drove past a Starbucks and decided to get my usual.  But that day, they were handling out samples of pumpkin spice latte.  Why not try it- it smelled delicious?  I sipped it and fell in love.  So, out of my tea comfort zone I went.  Instead of heading back outside to the chilly fall day, I decided to stay and snuggle in a chair while pondering my future.  With my eyes closed, I felt the latte warm my body and my soul.  It felt like a blanket being wrapped around me.  Comfort.  Warmth.  Flashback to a beautiful Spanish plaza on an afternoon decades ago with smells of café con leche swirling around when I felt happy.  That feeling was back.  Life would go on with Starbucks at my side every day.      

The reason why I love starbucks so much is because as a teen I am busy and don't get to hang out with my mom all the time but when I do have time we go to starbucks and hang out and just talk over out favorite drinks in a relaxing atmosphere. It is some of my favorite times that I get to share with my mom, at my favorite coffee shop.

M-My future career in Healthcare Administration was inspired by the

Y-yummy taste of Starbucks drinks,

S-specifically, the Starbucks seasonal drinks.

T-This career inspiration began over 5 years ago

A-after a teacher in high school assigned an economics paper

R-relating to some company.

B-Because of my love for Starbucks, no other company had a chance due to my

U-unusual obsession, so my paper came to be about the economics of Starbucks seasonal drinks.

C-Coincidently, the paper was due when my favorite drink was in season, so

K-Karly spent much time completing the paper while drinking a

S-Starbucks Peppermint Mocha.

S-Soon after the paper was complete; I began to realize my interest in

T-the business world, which lead to me taking several

O-other economics classes and business classes in college.

R-Right now I am finishing my undergraduate degree and am headed to graduate school next

Y-year to pursue my dream, all because of Starbucks!

“This is for your trip,” my customer, Patrick said, as  rang him up for his Grande Iced Coffee. “Have a great time and we’ll talk when you get back.”

Patrick was a good looking man, probably in his late thirties and he had come to LA to be an actor. He has been in many movies but  I just knew him as one of my regulars on Saturday mornings when I opened at Starbucks on Sunset and Mohawk.

One morning, when I had convinced Patrick to try our new salted caramel hot chocolate, we began to talk about a new adventure I was about to embark on. In a couple months I would be headed down to Guatemala with a team to work in villages with orphans and people in need for a month. Each time Patrick came in he asked me how the fundraising was going. I let him know I still needed quite a bit of money but that I truly believed there people in Guatemala who needed me and so I knew somehow I would get there. We frequently joked at the bar about finding the money on the street while I made his drink.

It was 10 days before I needed $700 more to go on the trip. I sat up the night before and just prayed and prayed. What was I going to do? I knew I had to go.

It was that next morning that Patrick came in with an envelope addressed to me and told me it was for my trip. I thought it was so sweet and expected probably $50. I went in the backroom and opened the card where he told me “Shannon, you shine and those people need someone like you.” The card was accompanied with a check for $1000 made out to me. I began crying.

Guatemala changed my life and without my Starbucks experience and customer I would never have been able to help those people. I saw Patrick once when I got back from Guatemala but have never seen him again.

The truth is, he was my angel customer and I will never forget what he did for me or what our relationship at Starbucks was able to forge for each other and many in Guatemala I was able to help.

I am still a Partner and look forward every day to the stories I get to create with my customers and the chance we have to change one another's life.

There is a magical spot in West Hollywood, California. A mystical portal of creativity, constantly flowing like a waterfall.  A special spot not on any map, not visible to the human eye, but no less real because of it.

Who knows how long this enchanted spot of endless inspiration has been sitting there, cloaked from our knowledge?  How many oblivious folks have passed through this invisible forcefield, only to go on with their day feeling more inspired to use their imaginations than usual?  The answers to these questions I do not know.  

What I do know is -- the spot is real… and it happens to be inside a small Starbucks in West Hollywood.  For it is here, in this spot, at this one special table in this one particular Starbucks, that I have personally been inspired to write my most imaginative works of fiction, as though the very essence of inspiration itself was pouring down on me from wherever such magic pours from.  

Yep, it's a special spot indeed.  And one that I visit every chance I get for my daily dose of Magic.  

Oh, and the Venti Soy Chai Latte is pretty awesome itself :)

Stories of Starbucks’ impact on my life are endless, but I’ll blurb a few ways this irreplaceable community has affected me.

I’m NOT a morning person. Yet their coffee’s aroma coddled to perfection is a surefire way to coax me out of a deep nights slumber.

It’s no coincidence that terrible days ended with a free drink just because.

Its prime customer service has inspired me to adopt the mantra of service to others.

I received a random job offer when I was jobless and searching.

Starbucks has remedied my clumsy nature (simultaneously replacing my drink post-instantaneously dropping it).

It seems to be the go-to spot for relationship babble. I’d like to see statistics regarding make-ups and break-ups on site. Many of my own have been affected by this place. I’ve been dumped/picked up, confronted/consoled, and much to my dismay I’ve been quieted. Something about the atmosphere lulls me into the pits of my soul. With the whirring machines and chatter of comers and goers, I’ve unveiled truth…finding peace in their quiet nooks.

Starbucks makes me feel fancy. I often pretend to be a celebrity whose candid shot will be taken by the paparazzi upon my departure.

I’ve been to Starbucks in sweatpants and nines, to smoke/to pray, on the way to a party/on the way to church, babysitting/hoping I wasn’t pregnant, to meet with those I’ve loved and those I’ve hated…As a mentor and mentee, to poop and to pee.

♪

S, is for the way you smell to me

T, is for THEE only one I drink

A, is Aaameerrrrrrrrricaaannooo

Ready, Hot, and back tomorrow

B, is breakfast, bread, and “Celebrating Tribute Blend”

and U, is all the ways to USE rewards

C, is coziness and real clean floors ♪

K, is kid’s drinks, teas, and even Vivanno smoothies

S, is staff friendlier than anyone you’ve met before

♪

and Starbucks is all that you are looking for

when it comes to drinks, pastries, and much, much more.♪

“Haaaaave a great day!”-“Did you say tall, grande, or large/venti?”

This is my story in song, I hope you’ll join and sing along…

♫(Repeat)♫

The Divine Find

Hanging slightly from the collar of her black shirt, was a miniature pewter sand dollar charm.  It was as small as a mustard seed, yet as mighty as the voice of God. The slightest, most delicate impression of a cross embedded on the pendant caught my eye.  Till then I was a snobby business owning architect being pestered by another patron.  That morning I left the house with my latest sculpture, book of psalms, and sketch book in tow—set out for just another day, oblivious to what the universe had in store for me.

Remembering my yoga moves, I delicately slid by her, into the last seat at the bar.  Little did I know how delicate the angel was sitting next to me, in my temporary office.  After a trip to the condiment station, I settled into my chair only to be asked, “Did you say you were in design school?”  With the most disinterested voice I replied “NO, I am an architect.” Then back to work.   Three questions later I would meet, for the first time, the woman who would steal my heart.  Her name was Kirsten Rose.  The pendant, a tall coffee, and Rosie’s adorable smile has become my permanent memory of Starbucks.

I guess if cupid had to re-brand the heart logo he’d make it a siren holding her tail (tale of 2).  That Starbucks and subsequently all Starbucks I now pass hold perfectly the memory of a precious gift, my best friend and soul mate!

Sketchbook, Bible, Tall Coffee—Check.  Soul mate?!  Check!

That day is forever engrained in my memory.  It serves as one of those internal reference points we all have.  You know, the unforgettable days that unknowingly become the cornerstones of one’s life story.

I woke up that morning earlier than usual, meeting a friend for coffee (not Starbucks…please keep reading) and then a meeting at NBC10.  I remember putting on a stylish ensemble, complete with black heels.  It was my first meeting at NBC10 so I had every intention of making a good impression.

Early to the meeting, I spotted a Starbucks next door and stopped in, to grab a bagel and catch my breath, before the meeting.

Then fate, or as I believe divine intervention, took its course.  

The only open seat sat me, unknowingly, next to my soul mate.  There he sat (as he sits now) scribbling words (beautiful words) in a sketchbook.  A sketchbook?!  I love art. Wait, there’s a piece of art next to him, and a Bible.  A Bible?!  I love God.  What guy (let me check, yes, cute guy!) carries a sketchbook and a Bible?

“Did you say you’re in design school, and have a project due Friday?”  Yes, that was my “pick-up” line.  The next 15 minutes were a blur.  

Two texts and a missed call from my boss brought me back to reality and within seconds I was out the door.  “I just met a really great guy,” were the first words out of my mouth when I saw my boss.

“Now, how did you two meet?”

For the record Kirsten made the first move, Michael texted that evening, she called seconds later and we have been together (and inseparable!) 139 days and counting.  As with every new relationship we have met countless friends, family members, and colleagues of one another over the past four month, while also befriending new acquaintances together.  Each conversation inevitably leads to the infamous question, “So tell me again, how did you two meet?”  To this day, we still smile at each other before sheepishly saying, “Actually, we met at a Starbucks!”  Only to keep smiling and continuing on with our story.

We are convinced at one point in life we would have met, but thankfully for the Starbucks on City Line Avenue, in Philadelphia, PA it was November 18, 2010 at 9:26AM and not a second later.

Just like The Max was to the Saved by the Bell crew and The Peach Pitt to the 90210 kids, Starbucks has served as the ideal hangout for my best friend and me. It’s been a sanctuary for our animated chatter and secret sharing. Always the same large armchairs that we sink into, the same scent of fresh coffee brewing, the same old men playing chess, yet never a dull Saturday evening. Since July 2002, Christine and I have met up at Starbucks each weekend to flee from tedious assignments and nosy parents, and to catch up. It’s at Starbucks where we collaborated on a supernatural romance manuscript for fun.  It’s at Starbucks where we celebrated our eighteenth and twenty-third birthdays. It’s at Starbucks where we analyze our work weeks and cleanse away bitter moments with sweet caramel frappuccinos. It’s at Starbucks where we laugh heartily over our immigrant moms’ quotes, rave about vampire shows, exchange embarrassing stories, complain about sibling antics, and gush about our crushes. Starbucks has witnessed the blossoming of our careers, music playlists, fashion choices and friendship. We’ve come a long way from shy teens that half-heartedly met up on a sweltering day and didn’t know a tall from a venti. We’re now two young women who understand there’s nothing more pleasant than relaxing on plush sofas, indulging in caramel delights and sharing grand ideas and laughs with your best friend. For us, Starbucks is a place of familiarity and comfort - where good friends meet!

Conversations in Starbucks: I am a recent re-hire to Starbucks, and a candidate for Ordination in the Presbyterian Church (USA).  Prior to even exploring the "ideas in Action" section, I wrote a blog about a conversation I participated in at Starbucks after getting off of work.  What I have come to realize and understand is that being a barista is doing ministry in a new and positive way, and a way that touches the human soul.  Here were my thoughts from the other day. It highlights how coming back to work at Starbucks has changed my life, and my outlook on ministry.

"Hi, Audrey. Taking a break?"

"Hey, Hal! No, I'm just getting off. Having a good day?"

"Yeah, it's a little cold out, but you know... what's this book you're reading?"

CEO of Starbucks, Howard Schultz, has released a new book called Onward. It's about how he came back to the company as CEO to save it from a massive decline. And so began an hour long conversation with a customer. I stayed not because I had time, or had to, but because this man said one sentence that grabbed my attention."I like that he holds his company to Christian standards."

Some may think Starbucks as a corporate giant and Christianity are anti climatic, but hear me out. In this busy coffee shop that serves easily a thousand people a day, ministry happens. I've seen CEOs buy homeless veterans a drink. I've seen perfect strangers share a table and strike up conversation over the Bible. And on this particular day, a conservative and not-so-conservative had a deeply engaging and spiritual conversation that has created a lifelong connection.

Hal's convictions were not my own. We sit on opposite sides of many fences. We could probably engage in a seriously heated debate on certain issues, but that's not what happened. In this third space called Starbucks, we recognized what draws us together... our faith.

When you can look across the table, or the pew for that matter, and see the fingerprint of God in another person, community is formed. That's what Schultz wanted to create when he founded this third space. That's what I hoped to become a part of when I began this journey. It's what we all long for, and it's what our God created us to generate for one another.

So, the next time you walk by a coffeeshop, Starbucks or otherwise, step inside. Listen to what's happening around you, and engage in the dance of community.

While travelling for work, I was constantly stopping into Starbucks to grab a beverage prior to meeting with clients, as I was in the business consulting industry.  On one particular client, I visited the same Starbucks for a number of months on end.  Each time, at around 7:30 AM, I would see the same architect, working with clients on home improvement projects.  He sat in the same spot, with the same computer, and helped his clients with their home needs.  He looked so “at home” in this particular Starbucks.  After seeing him work at his own pace, with his own clients, I decided to start a small business of my own.  I started a company with one goal in mind:  make people happy.  www.sendasmore.com was founded in November of 2010, and the website lets customers send all the necessary ingredients (graham cracker, chocolate, marshmallow, candle, toothpick) to roast a single s’more.  A user can logon, and literally send a s’more and a personalized note for $9.  The company has been an absolute blast.  I started by creating a website that would give customers the easiest online experience to send something more creative than a card, but not spend all the money on flowers.  Seeing that architect in Starbucks every single morning, doing what he loved, pushed me to start my own company…and I couldn’t be happier!  We’ve sold almost 200 s’mores in three months, and the word is spreading!  Thanks Starbucks! Bring on the Venti Iced Coffee!

To me Starbucks has always been as much about people as it has been about the coffee. I routinely meet friends, family, and dates to have a cup of coffee and some conversation in a place where I don't feel like I'm being ushered out moments after ordering. I always love that atmosphere, but one day it brought me comfort when I thought nothing would.

The day my mother died, it came as a shock to say the least. She passed away in the morning, and as the day progressed it became clear that I should not spend it alone sitting in a dark room. That could not be good for me. It dawned on me that I should go somewhere where I could sit with my friends and family to just be together for a while. We ended up at a Starbucks. As I sat there with my brother and my best friend we were able to use the atmosphere to comfort each other and remember my mother.

There are few places where I can go into a business and expect to feel comfortable to just chat with other people or just be alone to get some work done. They are always welcoming and friendly. Starbucks is one of my favorite places to just be.  

audreyhreese,

you go!  yes... it is a strange and unique place that we find ourselves ministering (I myself am not quite to the ordination level in the PC USA!!!) but I to love to find moments of ministry.  Much like the beauty and unexpectedness of Christ's work we to are called to work and be present to these opportunities of beauty and the unexpected witnessing that happens each second of our days.  Maybe Jesus would use a local barista's serving a customer in a parable within in the modern era.

again, way to go....

I recently took a trip to New York City. It was my first time in the Big Apple; I didn’t know my way around and I was totally out of my comfort zone. It was exhilarating, but also overwhelming. Despite all of the distractions the big city had to offer, I missed home. I longed for friendly, familiar faces and the comfort of my usual hang-outs. Since I took the subway or walked everywhere, I began to notice just how many Starbucks occupy space on Manhattan’s crowded streets. One day, when I was feeling particularly homesick, I spotted one across the street and decided I’d duck in for a cup of coffee and some time to regroup. When I pushed open those glass doors, I was greeted by exactly what I’d been yearning for—warmth, familiarity, comfort. It was like stepping into the arms of an old friend. Instantly I was bathed in soft light, wrapped up in the inviting aroma of brewed coffee, and—just like the Starbucks I frequent in Texas—there sat an overstuffed chair in a cozy corner, beckoning me to plop down in and rest my feet.

I ended up having a great time in Manhattan—so much to do and to see. I got to spend my vacation in a place I’d never been, and take a load off with an old friend—Starbucks. It became literally my home away from home.

Starbucks has been a part of my life for 20+ yrs, and vice versa.  I'm 58 yrs old so those yrs were ones that I consider 'prime time'.  One's late 30's thru 40's, possibly very good years, at the least, generally most opportune with some bit of maturity.

I clearly remember my very 1st cup of Sbux coffee.  My mom and I were out shopping and needed a coffee boost to go along with our traditional 'shopping- one-piece-of-chocolate' from Marshall Field's.  I knew there was this famous new coffee place near us so I ran into Starbucks and got a coffee for my mom and I to share.  I remember, as does my 90 yr old mom, how stunned we both were with BOLDNESS!  We thought we'd be awake all night.

Somehow after that, Starbucks became a part of my daily life.  Each chunk of time thru those yrs has different daily stores and memories.  My first most daily store was one that I stopped in every morn. about 5:45A on my way into my job.  After I switched my early morn. stop from brewed coffee to some kind of latte, my drink was ready for me, at that very busy hr., by the time I parked my car and ran into the store.  They knew me.  That's part of what makes every Sbux experience for me.  Of course, it's the coffee that got me in the door, but beyond that, and equally important has been 'the experience'.... the kindnesses, the openness, the strive for excellence, the sharing.  It was at this store that one of my most special things happened.  It was Christmas '98.  I ran into the store for my usual early morning drink and the baristas had on baseball caps, usual for those yrs., but these were dark blue.  There were silver colored snowflakes and the word "Starbucks" on the front and across the back, the words: "it's a wonderful store".  I exclaimed with such delight seeing these that one of the partners reached over the bar and put his cap on me and said "Merry Christmas"!  Of course, I still have the cap and it's a treasure.  

Throughout the '90's there were so many touching moments in so many stores; a barista making a press of my beloved Ethiopian Yergacheffe one snowy nite in my local store as I sat with a friend, waiting out the snow a bit, because he knew we both LOVED it.  I ran into him yrs later, in another store on my way out of town.  I had no idea where he'd gone, thru the yrs.  My friend left her wallet on the counter there, we'd become so involved in reminiscing with him.  When we got to our destination, a couple hrs later, and called, we were relieved to hear he'd found the wallet and put it in their safe and we could pick it up on our way home.  

One of the most meaningful times for me happened just 3 yrs ago in a store I didn't even know.  My dad had died the night before and I was with one of my sisters, running around in the pouring rain, doing what needed to be done.  Eventually, we stopped in a Sbux and ordered our drinks.  The barista could see I'd been crying and asked of me.  I told her... our dad had died.  She reached onto the counter and patted my hand, extending her sympathy and telling me the drinks were on them.  It sounds so trite but it was such a comfort.  And that's a store I have never been in, before or since.  But I will always remember that kindness.  

I have made endless Sbux friendships....ones where we may not see other outside of the cafe but we know each other, and we share our lives, our mutual love and enjoyment of Starbucks, the coffee and , more than anything else, the "experience".  I have that same connection with most of the baristas at my now regular place.  "They know me".  And it's always been that way at whatever Sbux I frequented.  

Since this has to be ended, I guess that's "my starbucks story".  It's not dramatic but it's powerful and it's extraordinary.  It is the coffee, to be sure, but so much more.

I’m a pastor and the best thing about my job is in being in relationship with others and being involved in their lives. Starbuck’s is that place where life happens…and life happens around a cup of coffee!  The local store close to my house was always a safe place where I could meet with, relax alongside, and be in community with people, unfortunately it was mostly a one-way relationship. This is where my story starts and where the tag line of Howard’s book resounds so deeply with me, “How Starbuck’s fought for its life without losing its soul.”  Almost two years ago I was very unhealthy.   I was 100 plus pounds overweight, my gall bladder was just removed, and my bile duct had ruptured.  After a six-day hospital stay my surgeon told me I was well on my way to liver disease.  It was the wake up call I needed! This is where Starbuck’s comes in…It was in that local store, while meeting with a friend, that I finally let someone be involved in my life and not just me in theirs.  19 months later, through accountability, relationship, conversation, and coffee, I am healthy.  I have lost 90 pounds and my life will never be the same.  To me Starbucks will always be more than just about coffee, for me it was THE place that I began the journey to “fight for my life.” Thanks, Howard.

I’m an avid Twitter user, and follow many official Starbucks accounts. Starbucks has always been a passion of mine—it’s not just the coffee; it’s the experience.  I applaud Starbucks for using social networking to build on their physical community by adding a vast and wonderful virtual community. I’ve met so many fellow enthusiasts through my love for Starbucks. I’ve grown a network of friends that have come to mean so much to me. And I have Starbucks to thank. Starbucks is what united us, brought us together.

Not too long ago, I was packing up to go back to college, so pleased to be taking my brand new Venti cold cup tumbler with me. On one trip to the car, hands brimming with belongings, the cup slipped from my grasp. The sound it made upon meeting the ground let me know something broke. There was a substantial chunk of lid missing, and a crack in the tumbler itself. I was so upset! I tweeted my frustrations, and that same day I received a message from a fellow Starbucks lover—and new friend—happy to inform me that he had a spare tumbler and would send it my way.

Sure enough, a few days later I got my new tumbler! That act of kindness from a person I only know through a mutual love for Starbucks really made my day. Thank you, Starbucks, for introducing me to so many wonderful new friends!

Let me tell you about one of my first encounter with Starbucks.

You know how you go into most places and the person behind the counter hardly makes eye contact with you as you fork over your money and they pass you your drink?

I pre-judged Jake in such a way. I’d had a busy day, and I walked up to the counter expecting a quick-as-you-can exchange of ordering and receiving coffee. Instead, I got Jake. He was friendly, warm, and outgoing. His positive attitude was contagious. I left with my coffee and a smile to boot.

And that was the start of a beautiful friendship. So much so that we even have our own inside joke! One day I went in to order my coffee and saw that Happy Feet was for sale at the register. I picked it up, glancing at the back. To my amusement, the rating it received was for “mild peril”. We joked about what exactly “mild peril” would consist of. Every time after that day, we’d ask each other if we’d experienced any mild peril lately.

I don’t frequent that Starbucks anymore—I moved away to college. But when I make the drive home I like to stop by to see Jake. He still works there, and we still chat. It warms my heart that he remembers me, even after all of the other new customers. And we still ask about our respective “mild peril”s.

I don’t remember the very first time I had Starbucks, but what I do remember is thinking “Man, this coffee is strong and awesome.”  I’ve always disliked diner coffee, and remember getting my first French press, and having those coarse Starbucks grounds soaking up the water, waiting a few minutes with great anticipation, while it became a deliciously rich and strong drink.  

My Starbucks store experiences over the years have taught me to slow down and appreciate life’s small moments.  I look forward to spending time in a ‘third place.’  I was able to enjoy Clover-brewed coffee this weekend, a luxury in itself, and without a magazine or reading materials, just sat and enjoyed the handcrafted beverage and petite treat.  I don’t know if it’s because I arrived smiling, but when I’m greeted with a hearty smile, it makes me smile even bigger.

As new products roll out, it reminds me to think of what I can do in my own life – to set a new goal, or whatever it is, just when I feel as if I’m in a rut.  Starbucks is great at reinventing itself, and in small ways helps me try to grow personally.  

Starbucks offers so many different ways of enjoying the experience.  I look forward to seeing what you come up with in the next 40.  You’ve brought a change in the way the world views coffee and how we can all enjoy it.  It’s transcended just being a place that sells coffee and for that, I am grateful.

I believe in fate because it happened the moment my mother let me taste her caramel frappuccino in July 2002. When that refreshing taste of coffee made its way down I knew that Starbucks and I were meant to be. Ever since then, I’ve been visiting Starbucks on a weekly basis and its friendly, communal setting has served as my security blanket. It’s not like I met the love of my life at Starbucks nor have I come up with the greatest book idea ever there. However, Starbucks as an environment has provided me with great comfort throughout the years. When I travel to beautiful yet unfamiliar locations, seeing Starbucks’s bright, green logo (a beckoning lighthouse from afar) eases my concerns about cultural differences and language barriers. Starbucks is where I met with an interviewer and scored a scholarship to a top-notch liberal arts college. Starbucks is where I penned my first published poem. It is where I was inspired by the loyal friendship of two chess playing old men that I fashioned two of the characters in my manuscript after them.   It is where my best friend and I developed our rich friendship over caramel frappuccinos. People tend to overlook the importance of location but I have learned to value it because had it not been for Starbucks’ vibrant setting over the past decade I wouldn’t have the friendships, writing opportunities, or the motivation to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, that I do today.

p.s. I know the contest officially ended but just wanted to share this story! :)

p.s. I know the contest officially ended but just wanted to share my thoughts! Thanks!

Last spring my boyfriend of over five years broke up with me, I had been diagnosed with a minor condition for a year and it still was not stable, I was only a third of the way through my senior thesis and had eight weeks to complete it, and I was still not over the death of my grandmother. I was up a lot of late nights trying to complete my work and struggling with stress. About a block away from my school apartment was a Starbucks that was open almost 24 hours. I began to make daily trips there. The aroma, atmosphere, and community were incredibly healing. Lattes kept me focused, the music streaming kept me relaxed, and I was able to research and write my thesis on time. A steady diet of coffee and healthy meals helped me to lose 20 pounds in just a couple months with no other lifestyle changes. This type of success even allowed me to venture out into my school's community and meet new friends, including my current love. All through this transformation, I could not help but think of how proud my grandmother would have been, and how she would have loved sitting at a table gossiping and people watching with me. Starbucks helped me through one of the most stressful times of my life, and I will forever be grateful and a customer.

Great Coffee . .. . . Thanks . . .. . . . . Onward . . . .. . .

In 2000, I became the mother of triplet girls.  Needless to say, I experienced lots of sleepless nights and not too much time to myself.  One of my favorite indulgences was Starbucks.  Whether it was to load the girls in the car and go through the drive thru for a pick me up or sneak out after my husband got home to sit and drink my coffee in peace, Starbucks has been a constant.  My girls are 11 now, and I still ask for Starbucks cards for all gifting occasions!  It's become the way I treat myself to a little luxury!

-- Laura

I thought in order to be eligible for this contest your story couldn't be over 250 words. This would make 'aunderwood' ineligible since the story was 264 words.

close enuff

Well I don't believe that is fair since it was a requirement. It was clearly stated in the 'Contest Rules' that you would be ineligible if your story was over 250 words. If everyone knew they could type 14 more words and be ''close enuff'' different people might have won.

I have to agree with brewhitebrown. Although I really do love the story in question, the rules were clear that 250 words was the max. What's the point of setting up Submission Guidelines if they aren't actually enforced, so to speak? And is choosing a winning piece that doesn't adhere to those guidelines fair to all the entrants who kept to the word count requirement?

Congratulations to the winners!  Thank you, MSI, for having this contest.  

As brewhitebrown commented, the contest rules state the story must not exceed 250 words.  However, not sure how MSI will define that.  In any event, it was greatly appreciated and fun.