Take Care Garnier

Up until recently I was quite often asked to provide evidence of my age when buying alcohol or cigarettes. Sometimes I would be prepared for this inquisition with my passport, sometimes not. When I wasn't prepared I would find it an inconvenience, why can't I just buy a bottle of wine when I feel like it? I would leave in a huff and feel stupid after a useless exchange of words....

Shopman: "Do you have I.D?"
Me: "No.. I'm 29"
Shopman: "I need I.D."
Me: "Do I look that young?!"
Shopman: "Yes you do"
Me: "Oh okay, well thanks for the compliment."
(Exit in a huff)

I haven't had this kind of conversation in a while, the last time was on my birthday regarding a lottery ticket. But since then I've managed to buy cigarettes without a suspicious look or even a hint of disbelief. This is not a good sign. Do you know what this means? It means I look my bloody age! I must be showing the first signs of ageing. Oh dear. The other week I somehow expected a confrontation, so I took my passport with me, but alas to no avail. Yesterday, I 'risked' buying a pack without bringing I.D, I needn't have worried! When people used to say 'you should appreciate it' I would just shrug it off and think 'yeah whatever'. Now whenever I buy a pack, I wait in anticipation to be asked THE question.

!!! UPDATE 21/10/09 - I was asked for ID when buying cigarettes today, it turns out I was actually quite annoyed about it !!!