For the Love of Coffee - 25 Cent Lattes and Free Drinks from Starbucks

Sometimes it is the little things in life that really give you a boost. When working to cut costs and grow a business, some pleasures just can't be squashed because of limited funds. Take for example, my love of coffee.

Growing up here in Seattle, it is natural that rich, wonderful espresso would be a passion of mine. So when I started my business in 2002, funding was tight and treats were eliminated. Except for coffee. I could cut back, and did - but could not eliminate. Turns out, I didn't have to.

You see, I purchased a Barista espresso machine for $299 (on sale) in 1998. Amazingly, it STILL works today - and it works well. We buy beans on sale, from our favorite roasters, and we figure that a huge (Venti?) sized latte' costs us 25 cents to make. Now THAT is a deal. Factor in the cost of the machine, oh, $20 per year. What a bargain.

Currently you can buy $100 worth of Starbucks gift cards for $80 at Costco - in store, not online. Hurry because I am sure this promotion is limited. This equates to $20 worth of FREE treats from Starbucks, or 25% extra.

There are many bargains out there - and so nice when they really fit your lifestyle.