<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/esparta/2092989435/" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2057" title="starbucks" src="http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/starbucks-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a></p>

<p>Usually I patronize independent coffeehouses. </p>

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<p>And I certainly never frequent one before work in the morning because between my workout, walking the pooch, and getting myself halfway presentable for work, I just don't have the time. </p>

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<p>I also prefer my soon-to-be world famous double shot Italian espresso almond milk lattes with a touch of agave syrup each morning. </p>

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<p>But, like the rest of America, I am always excited when Starbucks brings out the holiday cups.  I suppose because it signals the start of the holiday season and the accompanying warm fuzzies galore. </p>

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<p>With Thanksgiving a week away, I was definitely in the mood to bring in the season with a cuppa holiday cheer.  So on Day 54, I hauled my cookies out of bed 15 minutes early to partake in the most simple of festivities. </p>

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<p>What about you?  Are you a sucker for the Starbucks holiday cups?  :-)</p>