Where else can you do half a dozen things ... all at a quarter to three?

In my undying effort to support the local economy here in Brandon, I stopped by the 7-Eleven on my way home from work tonight to get some gas, since the needle was practically right on empty.

I put about $25 worth of gas in the tank, then went inside to pay. You know the drill.

It's strangely comforting to know that there are a few constants in an ever-changing universe. Whenever you walk into the 7-Eleven right near the Hughes-cienda, you can always be assured of two things:

1. Regardless of what time of day you're there, you stand an excellent chance of waiting in line behind some asshat ordering chicken.

During the day, you're stuck behind stupid people ordering chicken. In the wee hours of the morning -- drunk people! Swell. And just out of curiosity ... How gross would that chicken be by 3 o'clock in the morning? I'm afraid to find out.

2. If there are two or more employees working, whoever has the worst people skills will invariably be working behind the counter.

I happened to be wearing a Dolphins T-shirt and a Dodgers hat when I walked into the store, which led to this exchange between me and the guy behind the counter ...

CLERK: You couldn't decide between the Dolphins or Dodgers?

ME: Well, they play two different sports, so I'm not really torn.

CLERK: Oh ... you don't like the CFL?

ME: Uh, yeah.

CLERK: What's your favorite team?

ME: The Riders.

CLERK: Saskatchewan?

No, the ones from Casper, Wyoming, dingus. At some point, you have to just bite your tongue and make a break for the door.