January 5: An Energy Kick

My plan all along for this blog was to open myself up to life and let opportunities to try new things just sort of fall into my lap. I guess I'm either lazy or spoiled for believing that would actually occur. Unfortunately, it didn't, and I've been quickly reminded how nothing in life is free nor easy, and sometimes we have to make our own opportunities; actually, most of the time. Yesterday is the perfect case in point...around dusk, I unexpectedly received the chance to try something new via some positive karma and a little mojo by the Gods; but up until that point, I had nothin'! So, I thought perhaps it might behoove me to begin keeping a list of some of the things I've always wanted, or just recently discovered I want, to try. That way, on days when opportunity is not revealing itself in gift-wrap form, I won't be left scrambling to continue this quest. I figure, at the least, I'll save myself some danger and/or embarassment in attempting something completely off-the-wall in an effort to ensure I have a daily entry in this blog. Today, at the top of my list, Monster energy drink. Why? I really have no idea. Maybe it's the cool can. Maybe it's my curiosity as to why I see so many people purchasing/drinking this particular beverage. Maybe I'm just tired of soda and beer. Whatever the reason, I picked up a can of this stuff today at Meijer. I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about what to expect in terms of taste, as well as mildly concerned about the health risks that I so meticulously searched for information on via the Internet before departing for the store (it's true - I even emailed my wife the ingredients to get her perspective). Nonetheless, I made the purchase. And, upon returning home, I popped the top and eventually sampled the mystery and allure that is Monster. My first reaction: 1.99 for a 16-fl.-oz. can? Really? I can get 20 ounces of pure sugar and caffeine for 1.29 by investing in Coke. I guess the herbs and other "good stuff" in this mad concoction account for the 70-cent difference. As for the taste, I definitely felt a soda-like texture while swishing the first sip around my mouth, however it has more of a juice-like flavor to it. I suppose I cheated myself by only sampling 5-6 drinks before emptying the remaining brew into the sink, but I achieved what I set out to do and tried it. I can honestly say it will be the first and last time for me. But, on the bright side, at least here in Michigan I'll get 10 cents of this investment back in deposit next time I hit the grocery store. Cheers!