This was supposed to be quick.

But, strolling through the doors, I falter.

I sigh, pick my chin up, and quicken my pace again. Making my way across the room, the coffee counter comes into view. The two carafes lined up with empty spaces between them confirm my fears: they're out of coffee and brewing more.

Shit.

I have an 8:30am meeting to be back for but, since I was traveling, there was no coffee at home. I figured this would be an in-and-out situation; that I'd be back with time to spare. Now, I'm not so sure. Turning the corner, my eyes dart to the label tags pinned to the coffee that's there. Decaf and dark roast. Great. Perfect.

"I got more coming out in two minutes hun!"

Turning, I see the shorter woman with the glasses who's always marching around here with purpose.

"Awesome, thank you!"

I think she heard me, but who knows. I wish I knew her name. She's really sweet. I keep meaning to ask but she doesn't really let me get a word in. Plus, she's always flying off to go do something else.

"Here," she says before I even realize she's back.

She's walking toward me with an outstretched hand. Glancing down, I put two and two together and lift my travel mug.

"Light roast or medium roast?" she asks.

The carafes are still filling, but she goes right up and pours me a fresh mug. What a great start to the day. Strolling back toward the door and out to my truck, I'm smiling and my pace has calmed down some.

Time is on my side, apparently.

I've got plenty.

* * *

Do you?

onward.

For more on this daily column, read the backstory here. And if you know someone who'd appreciate this, pass it along.