Cracker Jacks

Spare dimes and nickels were rather scarce when I was a lad, But when I received a nickel now and then from my dear old Dad, I'd hie to the store to buy a box of those ambrosial snacks, Known to kids in all the land as scrumptious Cracker Jacks! I can think of no other tasty morsel created for the masses, Than that toothsome blend of popcorn, peanuts and molasses! On the box was a picture of Sailor Jack in his sailor suit, Along with his faithful mutt, Bingo, colorful and so cute! Ah, but those magic words on the box are what caught my eyes: "GUESS WHAT'S INSIDE!" - there was always a 'valuable' prize! With trembling hand I'd reach in the box with great expectation, And finding some trivial trinket, I'd give a cry of jubilation! You might find a baseball card, jacks and among other things, A tiny truck, ship, automobile and even 'diamond' rings! A toy soldier, whistle, a fire engine, a small animal or plane, A card with one of Jack's Funny Facts or a miniature train! "What'd ya git?" kids asked, then swapping would commence. In our youthful greed, these dealings grew quite intense! In the autumn of my life, I peer back through the mists of time, Recalling simple Cracker Jacks and times that were more sublime! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved