Crack House: Public Safety Announcement

Funny story: when we all moved in, we were pretty sure that all the neighbors would think we were drug dealers.  I mean, four 20-somethings that only seem to go out at night and not much at that.  But then, no one really comes here either, so if there were any concerns (not that we ever saw any evidence of neighbors being actively concerned), it's probably subsided into passive curiosity at most.  Of course, I'm not sure they would be terribly relieved knowing that we were poker players instead, but such is life and weird stigmas.

But that's not what I really want to talk about.  The problem, my friends, is caffeine.  All of us here in Poker House have reached the middle-aged feeling of resignation that we will never be free of the substance, but still have the youthful idealism that it can and should be defeated.  What doesn't help the situation is that today was a coincidence of the first coffee consumption in over a week and the first unilaterally winning day we have logged since "quitting".  I mean, the stuff is bad enough in itself; does it really need monetary evidence to support its cause?  Now, most people will laugh at me even mentioning this as a problem.  Caffeine is so integrated into most people's daily lives that it isn't even generally regarded as a drug.  It may not be heroin, but it is still an unnecessary factor that creates dependence, yes?  I mean, have you tried to quit lately?  And, if so, did you notice the complete loss of interest in life and the raging headache that made you want to put your head through a wall?  I've heard stories of people off caffeine for six months still not having a good time of it.  I would love to say that all of this has strengthened my resolve to never ever allow myself the splendors of Cinnamon dulce Lattes or the completely unredemptive magic of Coke...but I'm guessing that by next Saturday, I will find some reason to reward or console myself with a cup of inspiration.  And I certainly won't be alone, will I.

P.s.  In my last post, I forgot to mention ...

The Shed.  Hula Hoop warehouse (Seriously.  Everything cleaned out by the previous tenants except a buttload of hula hoops.)  Oh, and our mudpit of a yard.  Ideas for saving it this spring?