Dear Marylou’s,

There are two important things going to college in the South Shore area has taught me:

1. You are a glorious thing that actually exists

2. I can’t live without you in my life.

It’s hard to believe I was able to for so many years, because since we were introduced, we’ve been nearly inseparable. I know it might sound crazy, but Marylou’s, I love you.

Perhaps it seems sudden. After all, I only met you in the fall the year I came to college. It’s funny to look back to when we first met and see how different things are now. We didn’t hit it off too well. You introduced yourself with your peanut butter wonderful flavored iced coffee, and needless to say, I wasn’t impressed. You seemed overrated, full of yourself and a little too sweet for my liking. It wasn’t until much persuasion by my friends that I was convinced to give you a second chance.

We started to see each other regularly, then. I continued to learn more about you, like how some people only like you for your funky fanabla, but really, there's so much more to you than that. With your specialty monthly flavors like brownie batter or vanilla birthday cake, it’s obvious you’re always up for something new. You’re considerate of everyone’s wants and interests by offering nearly 50 different coffee flavors as well as a variety of baked goods. But Marylou’s, it was when you shared your chocolate mint cookie iced coffee with me that I knew I liked you more than I ever thought I would.

But then again, how could I resist your charm? Right away, you made it so easy to be attracted to you. I think it was your bubblegum pink color scheme that caught my attention; it really sets you apart from all the rest. With your coffee pots and muffins all neatly aligned alongside your other items for sale, you truly are beautiful looking. But while you’re certainly easy on the eyes, your looks aren’t everything. (They're just an added bonus.)

You’re so sweet to me, Marylou’s. Even on my worst days, you always know just how to pick me up when I’m feeling down, stressed or tired from that exam I stayed up all night studying for. For every all-nighter I pull, you’re always there for me — bright and early — to make it all seem OK. Or, at the very least, you help distract me from my problems for about 24 ounces. I don’t thank you nearly as often as I should.

I don’t always deserve you, and we both know it. There are plenty of days when you ask me if I want whipped cream on top, and though I know very well that I’ve been skipping the gym, I say yes. Even worse, I usually come crawling to you on Sunday mornings in a combined state of dishevelment and regrets, but instead of judging me, you openly welcome me with a freshly brewed cup of syrup and sugar.

While we’re being honest, there’s something I have to tell you: I haven’t always been loyal to you. When I’ve wanted a cheap fix, I’ve gone to Dunkin’, and when I’ve wanted to feel all high and mighty about myself, I’ve gone to Starbucks. It might be too late to say, but I’m sorry. I’ve come to realize that none of them could ever compare to you. If you'll forgive me, I promise I’ll work on being more faithful.

Marylou’s, you’re one of the best things that’s ever happened to me. I firmly believe that anyone else who’s ever met you thinks the same thing. Thanks for keeping me (relatively) sane.

Love,

One of your regular customers.

P.S. I'll see you tomorrow morning.