[Stantheman]

I have to admit to my own laziness and presumptive ways.

If it’s an introduction to someone I haven’t seen, I give my handle from the relative board they maybe familiar with a description of who I am.

I typically do enough research that I don’t have to ask about menu or services. I know the price of coffee and if they have boston cream or muffins or not etc.

That usually gets me a response of sort. Sometimes not and that is ok. I know I have rubbed some the wrong way and ruined my chance of a meeting.

And I’ve had the occasional decline or ghost for one reason or another. Typically it’s because I’m a last minute booker and can appreciate that isn’t welcome when we haven’t met before.

They have enough to deal with and even established relationships can go south from time to time.

I’ve also made arrangements with some of my favs and didn’t say how long. Simply asked if they were available for coffee at noon, got confirmation and showed.

I gave what I thought would be a generous gratuity but, thinking back may not have covered the actual time spent together.

I make my own coffee at home more often now and don’t treat myself to share it with someone else.

What is my point? You win some, you lose some. There is only one Payton but, there are some other fine places to enjoy yourself.