I frequent convenience stores. In fact, I would consider myself something of a convenience store connoisseur. However, it has been my experience that convenience stores frequently lack the one thing they claim: convenience.

My entire perspective on the subject changed the other day. I walked into a local convenience store which is not one of my usual stops, and, to my surprise, the entire store had experienced a dramatic face lift, and right under my nose.

The tiny store had been a construction zone for some time, so it was obvious that some transformation was taking place, but I walked into a store that was not only bigger and better, it was downright mind-blowing.

The restrooms had been transformed from those "I need the bathroom key and a nose plug, please" restrooms, into lavatories on par with a 3-star hotel lobby or nice restaurant. The tile was dark, the surfaces appeared clean, and the smell was even pleasant. I expected to find an assortment of colognes along the sink for complimentary use, but, alas, there were none. Some highway miscreant's idea of a practical joke I'm sure, stealing all of the bathroom colognes.

In addition to the bathroom overhaul, some marketing expert must have surely advised the store owners of how to entice customers to shed impulse dollars. The drinks were arranged at the rear of the store, and getting to them without traversing this row or that of enticing enticements was virtually impossible.

But, the coup d'etat was the fountain drink station. There were more choices than I have ever seen. Sodas, flavorings, a rainbow of colored slushes, and who knows what else. There was machine after machine of drink dispensing deliciousness. Oh, did I mention the choice of ice(?): crushed and cubed.

"Let's see...I'll have the 44oz. Diet Coke, crushed, no flavorings, in Styrofoam, with a regular straw-not the bendy or extra-long one-please.

"Oops, the drink overflowed onto my hand when I pushed the straw in!

"I need to wash my hands. It sure would be nice if there was a sink at the drink station so I wouldn't have to go back to the bathroom...No way! You've got to be kidding me..."

That's right, a complete sink/hand-washing station right next to the drink station, for the less-than-tidy among us (or, when the bathroom is just too far away). How cool is that?

So, if you are ever traveling through Sweetwater, Texas, I recommend you fill up (on gas and soda) at the Chillerz on I20 & US 70. You won't be disappointed.