My Dear Latte,

Since this past week marked the day of our reunion, I decided to write an open letter detailing our love. My, my, how time has flown. Nine years I have loved you, and you have never turned your back on me, or been unfaithful.

I still remember the first time I met you. It was 2008 and I was at the mall with my mom after school. We made it a habit to visit Starbucks whenever we went shopping, as we did that day. Looking up at the artsy-looking chalk announcements menu, I noticed a name I didn’t recognize.

“Try our Pumpkin Spice Latte—a taste of fall!”

More than a little curious, I announced my order to the barista, who wrote your initials with a sharpie on a little cup. It was love at first taste. Your scent is calming, invoking touching visions of family gathering together to share the things they are thankful for.

You return, like clockwork, every year as the excitement of returning to school dies down and people like me begin looking toward the best season of the year, fall. As dreams of haunted houses, bonfires, and apple cider dance in my head, you waltz back into my life.

Right before the stress of college hits me like a ton of bricks, you appear. Bringing good tidings and joy, you light up my life in a time when I need it most. To some people, you’re just a frilly hot drink from Starbucks. To me, you’re proof that a beautiful holiday season is fast approaching, so I need to hang tight and get through tomorrow’s exam.

I understand that during our time apart, you’ve undergone some changes. Your previously artificial color has been thrown out and replaced with real pumpkin. Throughout any long-term relationship, both parties are expected to change. It’s completely natural; I’m certainly not the same person I was in 2008. I just want you to know that regardless of how many changes we go through, I will always love you. You will always be my PSL.

Yours Always,

BL