Barista Babe

Ok, move over Geroge Plimpton. Give me a call, Studs Terkel. I have just completed my first week as a Barista in training as a new Starbucks partner.

Yes, I now own my own official green apron and I have a Starbucks store to call my own.
The difference is that I spend my time behind the bar serving others instead of being served.

For some, the fact that I am working at a Starbucks may be disconcerting or even a bit shocking. For others, this is about time. Nary a Sunday went by when I didn't refer to Starbucks in one of my sermons because it is "my happy place." It became time to put their money where my mouth is--so to speak.

I have long been a Starbucks fan and cheerleader and now I am even more so. The more I learn about the company, the more I like them. What other corporation offers health benefits for part-time employees? And I have way more respect for the work a barista does--trust me folks, it ain't easy.

The actual labor involved in being a barista is more than meets the eye. I used to be one of the ones who balked at the idea of a tip jar for these folks. Boy, was I wrong. Each barista does so many tasks (working in tandem with the team on duty) to make it possible for you to have the full Starbucks experience. Even when it means showing up at 4:15 a.m. to open the store. (Yep, you heard it right--I was there at 4:15 this morning...)

Fret not, I shall not make this a commercial for Starbucks --- been there, done that even before I worked for them. I am aware that Starbucks is not everyone's cup of proverbial tea.

For now, I am putting my feet up, taking a few Ibuprofen for my aches (gotta get better working shoes) and stiff lower back.

Do you want foam on that?