Las Vegas Day Drinking

So I understand that gambling is a zero sum game, but here’s the thing Vegas, not all things in life are.  There actually is enough to go around.  Come on guys, read the Secret already.  

I mean honestly, I drink during the day, sure, but at least I’m still willing to believe in the basic decency of mankind.  Which is probably why that guy who rang my doorbell, claimed to know my mother and took $20 off me figured me for an easy mark.  ”But how did he know her name?” I asked my brother when it became apparent that he was not actually going to return to pay me back.   

“Is there any mail in your mailbox?”  Ahhh, foiled again!  

But you know what?  I’d rather believe in humanity and pay for a spot of street theatre, than live hating everyone, like some locals I know.  Of course, I haven’t been here 20 years like Libby Lumkin and Dave Hickey who are espousing a sort of scorched earth policy on their way out, saying out loud and in print what the rest of us just sort of mutter to ourselves.  Though I suppose it is entirely possible that if I stay here much longer I may just loose the small bit of optimism that remains.  

Or maybe I’ll just settle into a general distrust, but still retain my sense of humor, much like the lady at the 7-11.  I strolled into the upscale 7-11 around the corner from me (yes, you read that right, there actually is an upscale 7-11) this morning and perusing my liquor options settled on the Green Apple Joose, a drink that my 6’7” 200 pound brother told me “will fucking knock you on your ass- don’t drink more than one.”  With his warning ringing in my head, I didn’t think I could really go for the “Panther Joose” so I settled on the “Green Apple”.  What can I say?  I’m a sucker for an emerald green beverage.  

Anyway, so I get to the register and the lady looks at me.  ”Is this all for you?”

“Yes… It’s not… It’s for a thing…I swear I’m not just drinking at 10 in the morning… I mean, it’s for a project.”

“Is the project to see if it will get you drunk?”

ZING

But then she laughed and promised to check out the blog.  So here’s to you 7-11 lady, for not having totally embraced the Vegas cynicism, and taking a chance on an unknown blogger who need a good buzz in the early morning.  

And yes, for the record, my brother is right, for the love of god, go easy on the Joose- just because it tastes good, with that lovely after burn in the pit of your chest, doesn’t mean you have to drink the whole can.  Especially on an empty stomach.  It may be time for some Donuts and Chinese Food.  Luckily for me they are both available at the same cash only establishment.