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Finally, after what was probably about five seconds but what seemed to me like a year later, I spoke the all-important words: "I'll start off with a Michael Collins, please." Of course, it was probably obvious to everyone around me, including the lovely Paddy Coyne's server Brianne, that I've "started off" a long time ago - like around 1993 - but that's beside the point, isn't it? She seemed quite pleased with my order as it officially made me a potential member of her club - and by that I mean the Paddy Coyne's Irish Club.

I told Pappi Swarner that he left Paddy Coyne's Irish Club off his South Sound eating and drinking challenge story. He directed me to grab information on the club and report back. So as am ... as a potential member. I have accepted the challenge of drinking the 25 signature Paddy Coyne's beverages - aiming for my name to be placed with the others behind Paddy Coyne's bar. Before my name can be added, I'll have to polish off the 25 drinks four times. Performing the task once earns me a T-shirt and a membership card, which is nice since I'll receive 10 percent discount every time I plop my fat ass in one if Paddy Coyne's dark, but cozy booths. If I drink the list twice, I'll be able to hang the Paddy Coyne's Membership Jacket in my closet next to my Member's Only jacket.

I'll keep you updated on my progress. If you want to play at home, I've polished off a shot of Michael Collins and a pint of Harp. The remaining drinks are Irish beers, Irish whiskies and Irish-themed drinks such as an Irish Car Bomb and Irish Hot Toddy. Wish me luck.

On a side note, you must try Paddy Coyne's Irish BLTC sandwich ($10.95) – if you enjoy sharp, salty buttery goodness. Imagine house made sweet soda bread, marinated in butter for a year (can't confirm that fact), sliced open, grilled then make room for salty Irish rashers (think ham), mayo, sharp white cheddar, tomato and very crisp lettuce. It was a fork and knife task that required half a tree in napkins. All that said it was devilishly delicious. The colossal dish arrived with a thousand shoestring fries, too.

[Paddy Coyne's Irish Pub, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday-Sunday (includes breakfast options), 815 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.272.6963]