I went to the Beer Garden ^[1] in Astoria ^[2] last night to meet some teacher friends who were celebrating the last day of the school year. (I’m jealous, but I know they deserve their summers off). We were enjoying our table in the open part of the courtyard, when ominous thunder rumbled in the distance. When it started drizzling, we rushed to catch one of the tables under an awning, but all were taken. A couple of kindly people moved a table under cover for us. We got them a pitcher of beer to return the favor, but they soon came by with another pitcher saying “Tag, you’re it!”

But our outdoor merriment ended as the storm worsened. Some bar staff came by, telling us that everyone needed to go inside. We were practically rolling our eyes at them, when a roar of thunder crashed, sounding as if it could have hit the courtyard. We all scurried inside. I wondered how there would be enough space for everyone, but it turns out there’s a room inside reminiscent of a high school gym with tables and a stage. Everyone got drinks and continued the party while the storm raged outside.