While this time of year is hectic enough to prevent much writing from going on, there has been a brief lull this afternoon, allowing for some words to come forth. I believe it is merely the calm before the storm, as this evening signals not just the end of the year, but the end of the decade. During this decade, I have reached adulthood and matured in ways that I didn’t think possible during my teenage years, not least of which is my appreciation for fine beer and cocktails.

Allow me, dear reader, to be a bit reflective for a moment. My first taste of beer was Busch Light, in a non-ceremonial manner that left a bit to be desired. The body was watery, there was no complexity, and the taste was curious. I thought I liked it, but wasn’t sure. It reminded me a bit of seltzer water, in a way, and I didn’t have another drink until quite some time later, when a friend brought over a 40oz bottle of King Cobra. Without being too degrading and venomous towards the… classic malt beverage, it should suffice to say that the experience turned me off of beer for quite some time.

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