Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Starbucks Refreshers Very Berry Hibiscus




When I initially tried the Starbucks Refreshers, I was in an actual Starbucks, and was slightly disappointed when I found out that they had made my drink from a powder. I have seen/heard enough good things about them to decide it was worth a second try.

I didn't go to Target intentionally seeking them out, but as I wandered through the aisles the packaging caught my eye, so I decided to read it. That's when I noticed that these actually contain caffeine, and the whole purpose behind the drink was to "refresh" you during the afternoon when you need a little pick-me-up. I was sold!

 I brought them home last night and decided I would give them a try this afternoon since I'm usually completely exhausted after work. The caffeine wasn't enough for me to feel a little buzz like I usually get from coffee, but just enough to make me feel slightly energized and not needing a nap.

These are sweetened with Stevia, which is apparent in the flavor, but it wasn't anything a little fresh squeezed lemon couldn't fix ;)... and actually made it taste similar to their Passion Tea Lemonade! I will continue to use up this box, but at this point, I don't think I would repurchase these for a whopping $7.00 a box at Target. If you are purchasing these from Starbucks, I would suggest buying the powders and making them yourself, because with a box of 6, it breaks down to a little more than a dollar a drink, which is a steal compared to the in-store price.

Boba (Pearl Tea) at Home



Having a Pearl Tea house so close to my home may seem like a blessing, but when I realized that I have spent over fifty dollars there in the past month, I knew I needed to cut back. If you love boba as much as I do, you quickly realize cutting back isn't really an option. So now I have embarked on what seems to be a never ending journey to preparing the perfect boba at home. I have tried many brands from my local Asian markets, without success. I either have trouble with the flavor or the texture, but generally it is both. . . at once. I have even tried sneakily asking questions at the Pearl Tea house I visit, without sounding like I am trying to start my own business based off of what they are telling me. I would love to hear any suggestions of where to purchase the best quality pearls, and also how to prepare them. For those who don't know the answer; have you ever tried boba before? If so, what is 
your favorite drink, and have you ever attempted to make your own at home?


Tiff