I really hate getting ID'd. I don't mind it if it's from someone new, or somewhere I haven't been before. I don't look 18, I even look over 21 and certainly look old enough to get a pack of smokes. I go to one of two places to get them, Mobil or Stewert's. Mostly Stewert's since it is 1/4 mile closer. I can be in there 3 times or more a week (I also get milk and eggs there) and everyone who works there has sold me smokes. Yet, the same ones keep IDing me.

This morning, yet again, I was asked for my ID. I said to the woman "Let me know if I got any younger since the last time you ID'd me." "Oh, have I ID'd you before? I guess I have."

I didn't mean to be rude. Well, maybe I meant it a little. I'd figure by now the people would recognize me (a few there do) and not hassle me. I figured maybe this time she'll take a harder look at me and remember me next time. A guy that works there knows me well enough that I walk in and say "Pack of UG" (like ugh) and he knows what I want.

After being a regular at a store for about two years now, you'd expect employees to recognize you and even know some of your usual purchases. At least, recall that they know you are over 18 and have proved it before.

I remember when I lived in New Haven I used to go to the same Dunkin Donuts every morning before work and get a coffee. The two women who worked the mornings knew me. Well, they didn't know me, they just associated me with "large coffee, light and sweet please." They even knew when I'd show up. It got to the point I'd walk in, be on line, and one would wave me up ahead with my coffee already made for me. Now THAT is service.