Football season

Tonight, we went to the Wildwood High School football game (Go...Wildcats!). Now, if you live in this area, going to the game is the social highlight of the week, especially if the home team wins! Not having been raised on football, I seem to fail to get much enjoyment from watching those young men throw the ball around, then pounce on each other.... like patty-pile, when we were kids. And how do they figure out when it is ok? and when there is a penalty? The only thing I know about are goals. Addie was tickled when she heard the word "play" used, after everyone on the field had fallen down! She thought that a funny word to use! Now, my enjoyment at a football started at the gate, when I spied a former teacher-friend. Then two more.... the hugs were great and small talk blossomed. It seemed to take a long time to get to our seats, since along the way many students and adults came with wide open arms to greet me! How wonderful to see so many smiles and receive so many hugs and friendly words. This was the first time that I had returned to the school since graduation last spring... and before that, my January 31 retirement. So all in all, it has been a while since I had seen so many of those individuals. It certainly was wonderful to be greeted so wonderfully by so many! One stop along the way to our seat was made to purchase boiled peanuts, sold by the FFA members and alumni. Now, a boiled peanut is a strange piece of edible delight. I was quite surprised when I first tried a boiled peanut: many years ago, when a neighbor cooked some for us. These peanuts are soft, no longer crunchy, when one opens the shell. The ones we had were salted just right, and not too soggy. The fun is in the eating! Crack the shell, suck the peanut goodness out, and drop the shell on the ground (or wherever you are sitting). My hands became a sticky mess, and of course we had no napkins, so I wiped my hands on my jeans... but oh, those sure were a yummy treat! Now, that was a real southern experience! I am pleased to report that the hometown boys won their game, and now are proclaimed District Champs! Way to go Wildcats!!! That means we will attend at least one more game this season...sure hope the peanuts are still fresh!!! Fortunately, I am assured that the fans will be there with more hugs and great conversation!