one of those things that happens

after a tasty dinner at Chuy's with Matt and Susan, i ran out for dog food and decided to stop in at the local liquor store to see what their beer selection looked like. when i got up to the counter, they asked for my ID. the fiftyish clerk examined my license.

"California," he said.

"yep. i've been here two weeks," i said.

"i just have to find where they put your birthdate," he said. he peered at it a moment longer. "oh! you're OLD," and he handed it back with a good-natured grin.

"you sure are smooth with the ladies," said the other clerk.

"hey, i carded her. she should be flattered," said the first one.