randy_byers | Regular

Because of a meeting on the top floor of the UW Tower this morning, I didn't get my usual second cup of coffee of the day. So I was starting to feel a bit draggy as I approached my afternoon break, and I decided it was better late than never on that second cuppa.

I went to one of my usual haunts, which will remain nameless to protect the innocent. One of the baristas -- a scruffy, funny, laid-back guy with whom I often josh about his progress or lack thereof on the NY Times crossword puzzle -- asked how I was doing.

"I'm draggin'," I said dully.

"Yeah?" he said. "Wanna shot of whiskey?"

"For reals?" I said, extremely surprised and suddenly perky. This was something new.

"Sure," he said, like it was nothing new.

"Well, hell yeah!"

So he took me to the bar in the back and poured two shots of Jameson's. "The Jameson's on me," said he, "but you'll have to buy your own coffee. Cheers."

"Prost!" I agreed. We knocked back our shots, and I got back in line for my double Americano.

I dunno. It feels so New York City, or something. I think that's where he's from. Anyway, I ain't complainin'. Feeling mildly pleasant, as a matter of fact. Sometimes ruts pay off.