I didn't intend it in precisely that way, but once I'd said it, I realized I probably meant it

We had this big, fabulous event and Generations Hall Saturday evening.

I learned a new drink - Malibu and Diet Coke. I'm not a rum drinker, nor do I tend to drink soda. But this drink just tasted like vacation. Probably because it smells like Hawaiian Tropic suntan lotion. So Tej gave me a taste of hers and it was delicious. And we had maybe more than a couple.

A group of us, including my boss, were sitting around towards the end of the reception. Tej and I were talking about meeting attendees, because we'd both worked registration for the meeting today. They assigned me, because they think I'm a great person to interact with the attendees, to work at the registration desk for today. Ugh. And when I tell anyone, ever, that I hate people, they don't believe me.

I mean, I don't hate everyone. Just people in general. And when I get stuck in a role that's not mine, and have to interact with a whole bunch of strangers all day long, I get tired and cranky and people loathe-y. Grr.

And one thing is, when you're doing something customer service oriented, some people - men in particular - will try to get you to do things they think are beneath them. Because why should they have to tear their perforated name badge and stick it in the badge holder? Or look up where they're going in the program? Or figure out when a particular session they want to attend takes place? Or tie their own shoes?

I mean, there are the people who might be lonely, or the guys who want to linger for a while, just to spend a little more time chatting. And so they put all their stuff together in front of you, and maybe make up a couple questions to ask you. And while it might be slightly annoying, you know it's well intentioned.

But some people are jerks. This one guy stood there and said, with mild annoyance that we have different badge holders every year. I joked that we're just testing their skills. To which he replied that his skills have never included badge assembly.

So Tej tore out his badge, stuffed it in the holder, and attached the lanyard. And handed it to him. And he was pleased. And I was irritated.

We were talking about it with my boss and several other people this evening. Who, thankfully, had had maybe more than a couple of whatever it was they were drinking as well.

I described Tej helping the man, and how some people are clearly bound and determined to get you to do whatever task they think they shouldn't have to deal with. (Which, if we were men, I am certain they'd not try to get us to do.)

I said there was no way I was going to put that badge together for him. And that I was surprised she did.

Tej said it was just easier. "I was like, oh, let me do it. It'll be a lot faster if I just go ahead and take care of it myself."

And I, (cringe) I said very loudly, "Yeah. You know his wife says that to him all the time."

Clap hand over mouth. Blush. Be glad that your boss thinks this is hilarious.

And then silently decide, yeah, probably.