Lunch with Pop and his Running Buddies

By: Robert Stedman

    The other day I was having lunch and began enjoying, yet, another history lesson. Dad and his buddy, Charles, could make a fortune if they'd charge for these "way back when" visits in time. My beef tips quickly became minute when memories of The Shamrock, The Pigstand and The Seale Lily started consuming the conversation. What you can learn from these dudes is priceless!

    I never knew that the supermarket I frequent was once occupied by a drive-in theater. I can just see these old timers cramming people into trunks as they sneak into movies making out during A Summer Place with Troy Donahue and Sandra Dee. I'm visualizing the "let's all go the lobby" pre-show with that hot dog jumping around attempting to arouse a mouth that may have been preoccupied. They're mind was obviously on something of more importance. If you know what I mean!

    Dad loves to utter stories of how studly he and the guys were. Don't know if I've bought that line yet. For Instance, he and Don were cruising the town in search for a little romance. Can't you just imagine the ambiance that surrounded that car. Do you really think the ladies were drooling over their ash flipping, flat top headed, "side of the mouth" grinning? I don't know, but back to the story. They stumble upon their prey and decide to flip a coin over who would ask out the innocent Peggy. Dad was the loser and for my sake, I'm glad because Don and Peggy are married to this day. Thank you sir!

    They always seem to have stories with ice cream included. Like the one pop loves to remind me of involving the previously mentioned, Seale Lily. Apparently, dad had those creative juices flowing and decided he would have a banana split made in his hands. I'm sure it had everything to do with the cute brunette in the corner, but he claims he just really wanted to eat this using his palms as the bowl. So, the guy behind the bar, goofy hat and all, decided to take him up on the offer. Next thing you know, everyone has their dirty hands overflowing with bananas, ice cream, syrup, and cherries. The poor, innocent, funny hat guy gets fired, while dad and the rest of these "nuts" enjoy a unique dessert. Dude gets canned and they're left with a funny memory--go figure! !

    They're plenty other stories, but I'll need to put them on hold. The "purple passion" event may be a little overbearing for this audience. After hearing most of these tales, I'm reminded of the saying, "idle time is the devil's workshop." I'm also left wondering if I really got genes from this "stud," father of mine. Maybe I should be flattered when most people say, I'm my mom made over. Not really true, innocent little Jackie would have never understood some of my high school stunts. As for dad, Charles and the other buddies, these ears will always be itching to hear your memories. I'd have fit right in!