Earlier, life seemed to be an endless acquisition of information and experience. More and more stuffed into my brain. At some point, that balance seems to have tipped into forgetting more than remembering.
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Supermarkets, those sprawling temples of consumerism, have been a fixture in our lives for over a century. From the first Piggly Wiggly in Memphis to the sprawling mega-stores of today, these retail behemoths have witnessed countless triumphs and tribulations. While most of our supermarket experiences are routine and unremarkable, there are those occasional encounters that stick with us, leaving us laughing, shaking our heads, or even a little embarrassed.
One of the most common supermarket adventures involves the British art of ‘queueing’. There’s a certain etiquette to the checkout line, and those who violate it can face social ostracism. Remember the time someone tried to cut in front of you, only to be met with a collective gasp of disapproval? Or perhaps you’ve witnessed the epic battle between two rival shoppers vying for the last spot in the express lane?
Then there are the encounters with fellow shoppers who seem to have lost their minds. Have you ever witnessed someone trying to fit a watermelon into their purse? Or perhaps you’ve encountered the individual who insists on singing along with the store’s PA system at the top of their lungs? These encounters can be both amusing and perplexing, leaving you wondering what on earth is going on.
Of course, no supermarket adventure would be complete without a few product mishaps. Who hasn’t accidentally grabbed the wrong item, only to discover it at the checkout counter? Or perhaps you’ve experienced the horror of a rogue egg exploding in your grocery bag, leaving you with a sticky mess and a ruined outfit. These unfortunate incidents can be both frustrating and hilarious, reminding us that even the most mundane tasks can have unexpected consequences.
And let’s not forget the occasional encounter with the supernatural. Have you ever felt a cold draft in the produce section, only to realize that a ghost is haunting the aisle of apples? (Yes, I wrote the truth – a ghost.) Or perhaps you’ve heard strange noises coming from the freezer, suggesting that a Yeti is lurking among the ice cream? While these encounters may be more myth than reality, they add a touch of excitement and mystery to my supermarket adventures.
So the next time you find yourself wandering the aisles of your local supermarket, take a moment to appreciate the absurdity of it all. From the awkward encounters to the unexpected mishaps, supermarkets are a treasure trove of hilarious and unforgettable experiences. And who knows, perhaps you’ll even have your own adventure to share one day.
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Skee Ball
When I was a kid my grandparents lived a few blocks from the beach in Far Rockaway, in Queens, New York. I loved visiting them – and especially in the summer when Rockaways Playland was open for the season.
Created in 1902 by roller coaster designer LaMarcus Adna Thompson, Rockaways Playland had an adjacent ferry dock making it convenient ro reach from almost everywhere in the city. In addition to a roller coaster, a ferris wheel, and the usual amusement park rides, it boasted amenities including a gym and a swimming pool, and welcomed millions of visitors over the years.
Sadly in 1987 the cost of insurance became prohibitive for its owners and Rockaways Playland was closed. But as a gutsy kid, I remember my father holding me on his lap on one of those death-defying rides as we whipped through the air.
And I also remember playing skee ball there. Altho now it’s apparently more a social sport played in bars and arcades, in those days it was one of my favorite pastimes at Rockaways. And in my mind’s eye I can see those skee balll alleys and those balls rolling up the ramp to rack up points for one proud and happy little girl!
– Dana Susan Lehrman
For me one of the quintessential amusement park experiences was (and still is) the thrill of the bumper cars. There’s something undeniably satisfying about intentionally ramming another vehicle, sending it careening in a different direction. It’s a harmless (?), controlled aggression that’s both exhilarating and cathartic. Remember those strategic maneuvers, the calculated collisions, and the gleeful laughter that filled the air? “Got you – you b*asturd!”
Then there’s the adrenaline rush of the roller coasters. From the classic wooden coasters to the modern, steel marvels, there’s a thrill ride for everyone. The anticipation as the car climbs higher and higher, the heart-pounding descent, and the weightlessness of the loops and twists – it’s a sensory overload that’s hard to forget: What the Japanese and French call ‘the little death’.
And let’s not forget the Tilt-O-Whirl. This iconic ride is a test of both physical endurance and stomach strength. As the ride spins and tilts, you’re subjected to a dizzying array of sensations. It’s a recipe for disaster, especially if you’ve indulged in too many greasy carnival treats beforehand.
Beyond the rides, amusement parks offer a unique blend of entertainment and nostalgia. The sweet sugary scent of cotton candy and popcorn that lingers in the air, the vibrant colors of the lights, and the lively atmosphere create a magical experience. It’s a place where worries can be left behind and pure joy can take center stage.
Amusement parks are more than just places to have fun; they’re time capsules that preserve the innocence and wonder of childhood. They’re a reminder of simpler times, when the biggest challenge was deciding which ride to go on next. So, the next time you find yourself at an amusement park, take a moment to savor and re-savor the experience. It’s a chance to relive the magic of your childhood and create new memories that will last a lifetime.
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