Country Store

Yesterday, I happened upon a quaint, old-time country store. I felt I was reliving my youth as I trod its squeaky wooden floor! The sights and smells were familiar when I entered the door. Memories flooded my soul as I gazed upon those things of yore! A glowing pot-bellied stove provided an inviting place to sit and chat. Upon a barrel of cheese snoozed an inscrutable tabby cat. Old-timers were playing checkers hunkered over a pickle barrel. 'Mongst the clutter of merchandise you browsed at your peril! Suspended from rafters were horse collars, lanterns and milking pails. Boots, overalls and cured hams were hung with ten-penny nails. Silverware and pocket watches were displayed in sturdy oak cases, And others held buttons, thread, needles and rolls of fancy laces. There were boxes of cigars, Mail Pouch tobacco and various tools, Straw hats, aprons, bonnets, corsets and rolls of colorful tulles. Stacked on shelves were galluses, overshoes and boys' caps, Crockery, umbrellas, mantel clocks and several muskrat traps. One wall was lined with churns, cream separators and kerosene stoves. Wafting about the place was the pleasing scent of cinnamon and cloves. There were bins of onions, taters, carrots and fresh roasting ears. I sat by the stove a spell to absorb the flavor of yesteryears! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved