Why I Love the Northwest

I was worried yesterday. I was running a little late on my way out to Portland and didn't have a chance to get my coffee.

Finally, 60 miles later, I stopped for gas at the Tumwater Costco ($3.09/gallon). Then I drove over to the adjacent strip mall, thinking I might find a Starbucks there. It's usually a safe bet. There should be one in every stip mall. I think it's a local ordinance. I didn't see one at first, but I did see a Fred Meyer. Fortunately, there was one in there.

So I went to park the car and about 100 feet away:

There was another one.

Naturally, I chided myself over the silly worry that I might not find a Starbucks in Western Washington. When will the rest of the world catch up?