Sun & Sadness, Tropical Breezes & a Tropical Long Island Iced Tea

Saturday was a smooth and easy day at work and personally. Another person from the past came in for lunch and we had a nice chat. He's no longer involved in the "old" crowd (read clique) and while he enjoyed a terrific meal, we enjoyed catching up. Hope to see him again though no plans were made to do so.

Meanwhile the digital cameras were out and flashing away which means that a sad time is approaching as some students begin leaving for their home countries and the new school year over the next week, or so.

It is what it is.  A new watch-cry for me. Another reminder of that which I would rather not face right now, but must.

On a happy note, arriving home there was yet another package waiting for me, the major parts for the large bathroom shelf/rack thingy. I put it together and in it's place following supper last evening and made good use of the extra space right away.  Everything looks better now. And, I am no longer tripping over hulks of metal every time I forgot the damned thing was in the way. Happy, happy!

So, this morning with everyone in a buoyant mood I decided to take a few more pictures, especially of those that mean so much to me. The photo above is; from your left - Sergey (not that one) with us for his second summer who has grown to twice his height of last year. Me. And Andri, as tall as Sergey and just as happy and positive - all the time. (Click to embiggen)  Andri has managed to learn much of the kitchen duties as well as the computer system in the retail store adjacent to the restaurant. He has been promoted to a prep cook position and is having the time of his life.

Sadly, Sergey (yes that one; original story and update) after working the lunch shift yesterday, departed for home last evening without saying good-bye, instead texting the boss that he would not be coming in today. Most of us were heartbroken, but I kind of understand why he chose this exit. He couldn't bear to say good-bye in person.  Yes, he's young and may regret that decision later in life, but for now it has to work for him. Unfortunately, it put us in a bind as we were short one vital person to get the place ready to open today.  We all had to work extra hard - and fast - to make that happen.  I didn't mind pitching in to help, but the servers grumbled a bit. It is what it is.

We were very busy today and tonight promises to be even more so.  Thankfully, diners were in a good mood, or I helped put them there, and the entire restaurant seemed to hum with precision. We were on a roll and worthy of it. By the time my shift was over I realized how much energy was expended and I felt totally spent. Sasha escorted me to the bar for my after-shift cocktail and Scott took care of the rest. With help from the ever devious Rob, Scott concocted a "Tropical Long Island Iced Tea" although Long Island is no where near the tropics, unless, of course, you've had one or two of these delicious cocktails. Then anything is possible. Seriously, this is an amazing cocktail. So smooth I didn't feel that it was an alcoholic beverage, until I tried to rise from the bar stool.The sign of a master mixologist.  I am sure they are still laughing.

As you can tell, I made it home under my own power and even have the ability to cook supper all - by - my - self.  Hey!  It is what it is.  And, I am what I am...and like that.

And so it goes.
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