Starbucks Hot Chocolate Review

I am not a dyed-in-the-wool Starbucks fan (unbelievable, I know, since I live in Washington not too far from Seattle).  My main reason for going to Starbucks is because 1) they have a drive-up (yay!); and 2) they are on my way to work.

Okay, I know it's unAmerican, but I have to say it:  Starbucks coffee is the worst.  When I've been tempted to buy it, I remind myself to tell the barrista to water it down with hot water and leave enough room for extra, extra cream.  That still doesn't kill the burnt taste, however, and it usually sits on my desk until the end of the day when I trash it. 

I knew I had to come up with something better, something that would make me happy in the morning.  I went out on a limb in an effort to find a new drink that would be a special treat, which would also help me adjust my attitude toward going to work.  Voila!  I happened across Starbucks hot chocolate with peppermint, and I have to say it is 100% better than their coffee.  (I also tried the regular hot chocolate, but it was pretty ordinary.) 

Now, I face the daily grind with a smile on my face, knowing I will have my pepperminty hot chocolate with me when I pull into my workplace parking spot. 

Hey, whatever it takes to get through the grey fog and wetness that passes for weather here in the Pacific Northwest.