Bartenders Really Earn Their Money

As some of you know, I recently purchased a bar in downtown Cedar Rapids. The last few weekends I've been working with the employees behind the rail, trying to learn a few things and hopefully helping them out a little.

I quickly found out that bartending is not an easy job. You're on your feet for hours, there is no such thing as a break, people are screaming for drinks and now it's time to wash 50 glasses. Is this what I signed up for?

It really made me appreciate what servers and bartenders go though on a daily basis. It's not an easy job, but the good ones make it look easy. Remembering the drink orders, calling customers by their first names, smiling the entire night and forgetting that your feet are throbbing.

I can honestly say, I had no idea! No idea what it takes to complete a full shift with a bar full of thirsty patrons. To not take a break for over 3 hours when it's super busy. To not get down on yourself when someone tells you that you mixed them a crappy weak drink. And keep in mind, I didn't even work a full shift!

I guess the reason I wrote this blog is to salute the hard working men and women in the service industry. We thank you for taking such great care of us and also listening to all of our problems. You keep our glass full, and we appreciate you.

If you hit up the bar this week, pull your favorite bartender or server aside and tell them thanks. It's something they don't always hear, and I'm sure it will make their day.

After all....they deserve it.