Gas & Guzzling

When he first moved to Shawnee (a month or so before I did - with the dogs, so the house in Nashville would show more easily), Chad discovered that the gas station at our exit off the highway provides a pretty good cup of joe, for mere pennies compared to Starbucks - and even less when you use your own mug (which, of course, we do). They provide an array of syrups with which you can flavor, a variety of bean strengths from which to choose, and even steamed milk (although it is formulated from a powder). Since our focus has been minimal spending and the reduction of debt, this was a wonderful surprise for both of us - we could still indulge, but maintain monetary diligence.

Even better - after a couple of months, the station announced free coffee with every purchase of $25 in gas!

At this time, fuel was more than $2 per gallon - so we enjoyed many a complimentary cup, and used this (as well as the fact this station features 100% gas versus 90%/10% ethanol) as reasoning to support our committed patronage.

This morning, I ran the pump as usual and went inside to top off my mug. Since prices have lowered, I even use mid-level fuel - my Camry is older, and can use all the assist she can get. As I began to tabulate MPG whilst preparing to depart the station, an unfamiliar number caught my eye. It was next to the dollar sign - and LESS than 25.

My tank warning light had been illuminated since I pulled out of our drive, so I FILLED her up... and, oh my gosh - I didn't have ANY cash to pay for the coffee!

I will admit to the few who read this blog that I drove on with little hesitation. Yes, I could have debited the amount – but the energy used to process the payment, plus the amount of the charge that the credit card company would claim made the benefits to my service provider close to nill – so I’ll just swing by and offer to pay for it, in the morning.

Although thrwarted in my attempts to justify the consumption of java, I’m VERY pleased to pay less at the pump. It’s just funny that two such separate things have become so very connected, in my world.