Every day, the miracle of the internet solves another problem for me that I didn't know I had. Today's example: BuyYourFriendADrink.com. This new service allows me to buy real, physical drinks for friends I may never have met in the flesh. To buymyfriendadrink, I need only log onto their site, upload some cash, and write a personalized message.

The message is then sent to my e-buddy, who can take it to one of the bars listed on the BYFAD roster, give the barkeep his gift code, and sip a cold one on me.

Unfortunately, for those of us in flyover America, the service is currently only offered in the New York City area. However, I can't help but think the concept is applicable to many other markets. For example:

• For Floridians: BuyYourFriendASeniorsSpecialAtDennys
• For your boss: BuyYourBossABagOfIceBecauseHeNeedsToLearnToChillDude
• For your friends in California, perhaps: BuyYourFriendAnUnpretentiousButQuiteQuaffableCabernet?
• Maybe for your ex-spouse: BuyYourExADonkeyBecauseSheWon'tHaveYourAssToKickAroundAnyMore
• For the New Orleans market, how about: BuyYourFriendAnHourWithAFEMAOfficialAndAHorsewhip?

Free enterprise -- you have to love it.

BuyYourFriendADrink.com is the answer -- what's the question? originally appeared on BloggingStocks on Sun, 22 Apr 2007 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.