Woolworth's

By Esther

Tue, 30 Apr 2013
  • 980 reads
4 comments
 

Pick and mix; wide, long wooden floorboards that reminded her in some silly way of the lines at Wellingborough Station where she met the man who was to become her new stepfather.
Sugary sweet and bitter. Anything you desired could be drawn from boxes that you stood on tip-toe to reach or stooped for.

It seemed as life as it was then at the Woolworth store would be there forever.
The smock coated assistant, who wore white peaked hat, smiled and chatted. She wiped her nose on her sleeve then glanced down st her watch. Her boyfriend hovered, like a bumble-bee, near the vinyl sleeve records,screwdrivers,torches, pencils and sharpners his feet felt cramped in his shiny best school shoes. He ran his fingers through brylcreemed hair.
Counted pennies,counted thoughts and plans for the night as the pick and mix slipped into bags. His girlfriend adjusted her new bra as they both waited for the night ahead.

Certificate 18
Story
Memories are made of this
Love

Comments

Submitted by jolono on
Nice memories Esther.

 

Submitted by Esther on
Nice memories are the very best aren't they jolono..thank you.

Submitted by The Walrus on
Yup, it takes me back, Esther, and it seems like ages ago. I also remember the old co-op when I was a kid, I was fascinated by the compressed air system - there was no money in the tills, your cash went in a little plastic tub with the till receipt and was sucked up a tube, and the change and your receipt came down another one.

Submitted by Esther on
It's somehow re-assuring to return to those times don't you think? I remember my mum queuing for her divvy. The co-op had so many departments but now condensed to one compact shop; well stocked but I feel lacking the character of yesterday. I recall, as I type, how so much needed weighing as well as the different smells. We took all that for granted and now accept pre-packed everything....unaware what's hidden inside everything. Thank you for your comment The Walrus.