Home OP-ED As Cash Register Collectors, Ka-jing, We Played It Safe

As Cash Register Collectors, Ka-jing, We Played It Safe

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Dateline Dayton – Last week my cash register-collecting buddy Howard and I were on our way to St. Charles, IL, for the semi- annual Cash Register Collectors Club meeting and swap meet.  Wednesday was a great day to travel. Little traffic.

In the evening we were joined by the club's president and a member from Evansville, IN, for our traditional supper at Corfu.

Thursday morning was cold with a few snowflakes. Not too windy, so we still had our swap meet outside.  The crowd was small. Howard and I did manage to sell a few things.  In the afternoon we attended the club’s meeting. We left for home one day earlier than planned because of the weather. Bitterly cold, more snow was forecast for Friday. This seemed safest.

Our return trip was uneventful – until we reached the east side of Indianapolis, Interstate 70.  I noticed a van ahead of us had drifted off the left side of the road. I even said “what's going on?” as it came back onto the roadway.

As we drew nearer, the driver stopped in the left hand lane. This caused the car behind him to slam on its brakes and swerve into my lane. He ended up directly in front me.  I was able to swerve onto the berm, barely avoiding the car. 

“Great driving, and my heart is racing” Howard said excitedly to me. “Mine, too,” I said. I was glad I did not need a bathroom stop.  We arrived home safely.

Changing Directions

On Saturday morning Pauline, our Chris and I were on our way to Niles, MI, to attend our granddaughter’s final senior play at Niles High School.  Saturday was another excellent day to travel. Clear weather, little traffic.  We arrived in Niles in time to attend church with Darlene’s family, minus Mike and Emily.

Emily was unaware that we were going to be at the play. We got flowers and a card for her, which our daughter presented to her prior to the performance.  I might be biased, but Emily did an outstanding job. She was so , articulate.

After the performance, all of us (Darlene, Mike, Heather, Ryan, Emily and the three of us) went out for pizza.  A fun evening.

Want to Bet?

Sunday morning, Chris, Pauline and I stopped at the casino down the street from our hotel.  I donated my normal $20. Chris ended 75 cents ahead. Pauline came away with a few dollars, left from the $5 she was given for getting a players card.

At 10 o'clock we met the Caseys for breakfast, in Niles.  We had to stay outside of Niles due to the Notre Dame football game. Everything vaguely close to South Bend and Niles was booked or the rate was out of sight.  After breakfast and goodbyes, we were on our way home.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net