Free Car Wash, Anyone?
On a warm Sunday afternoon, I walked down the last few blocks I needed to in order to get to the nearest Dunkin’ to pick up a much-needed coffee. I stared at the mobile order I had made on my phone when I started my walk. I know this sounds like a lazy and antisocial thing to do... but I promise I did not order online just to avoid human interaction with the barista. My excuse for being antisocial is that I get a discount when I order online, as it adds up my customer points on the app. And even though some may think that is a lame excuse, when there are discounts involved, I’ll always take the extra step to save those three dollars.
Of course, I walked too quickly to pick up my coffee order, so when I got to the Dunkin’, my iced cold brew with almond milk was not ready yet. So, I walked at a criminally slow pace, at least for a New Yorker, and did an extra lap around the block in the blazing sun. The sun felt surprisingly good on my face, though it was provoking sweat to gather on my back. It was 80 degrees outside, and naturally, my outfit of choice was a pair of thick jeans and a blouse. Only those from Arizona could see how this would seem at least semi-logical. As I was meandering along, I passed a red fire hydrant that had sprung a leak and was spraying gallons of water across the sidewalk, showering the nearby street. The water droplets felt good on my neck as I speed walked around the mini rainstorm blocking my route.
Once my order was ready, I headed back to my place of residence, my iced coffee in hand. The sky was bright blue, and the sun was shining. I stopped and stared as I passed by the leaking fire hydrant again. I cracked a smile as I realized that I had not been the only one enjoying the cooling effect of the water droplets. A yellow taxi had pulled up next to the fire hydrant and parked right underneath it, enjoying a free car wash. Of course, the driver had turned on the windshield wipers to get the full effect. I was tempted to pull out my camera and capture this movie-like scene, but decided to enjoy the live show instead. Then, to my surprise and amusement, a small black car pulled up behind the taxi and waited his turn to also enjoy the free shower.
I chuckled as I walked by on the sidewalk, avoiding eye contact with the drivers but still enjoying the ridiculous show. Since driving a car in this city is stressful and expensive, I love that small benefits still show up every once in a sunny day for those who do drive. The innovation I have seen in New York City since moving here a year ago has been impressive, to say the least.
