Young Thinkers

Recently, Mr. Bill and I were watching a Netflix movie, Couples Retreat or something along that line.  Actually a pretty funny movie, with some scenes reminiscent of actual stories brought to us by patrons of Fred's News.  In one scene from the movie, the children of the character played by Vince Vaughn, call their Grandfather to come babysit, allowing Mom and Dad a much deserved vacation.  Much like a young man named Josh.  Having known his parents before his birth, I must say, Josh at an early age was very much a thinker.  His parents allowing him many opportunities to make his own decisions under their careful nurturing spirits and guidance.  We loved having Josh in the restaurant, even at age two, very much a charismatic character in his own right.  Anchovies, olives, sausage gravy, all part of his diet.  The boy's palate very well developed at an early age.  Josh a genuine "foodie", could cook his family of four, a full five or six course meal by the time he was twelve.  For a time Josh washed dishes at Fred's, after the rush, he loved nothing more than being able to sit down with his meal, browsing the numerous food service catalogs at Fred's News.  God love the young man...hopefully some day a famous chef!!

Donnie, a long time friend of Fred's passed away much too soon.  An extremely gentle spirited man, he loved a good joke.  His gait, slow and steady, conversations much the same.  Loved by all who knew him, Donnie an avid Boston Red Sox fan,  loved to instigate.  With his soft warm smile and easy personality, first impressions were that of a quiet introvert.  Quite the opposite, with a wicked sense of humor, Donnie could hold his own against the best, often prodding others into service, just to carry out a joke.    Much like the movie, he enjoyed telling stories of his own family.  Unfortunately, I don't remember if the following was in reference to his son or nephew, whom he raised.  According to Donnie, they were shipping one day at the old Sears Roebuck department store in Norwich, Connecticut.  This store was three floors of everything anyone could ever want.  Kitchen and bathroom products in the basement.  As Donnie talked with the salesman about future renovations to his home or some sort of product he was looking for, the conversation lasted for awhile, the salesman the epitome of customer service, wanting his customer to be sure he was purchasing the very best.  Donnie having a young three year old with him, starting to show signs of impatience.  Years ago, parents didn't seem to worry as much if a child wondered a few aisle away.  Just a curious child, Donnie finished his conversation with the salesman assuring him he would be back,  off he went searching for the child.  Sure enough the young boy returned, totally excited, wanting to show Donnie where he'd been and what he'd done.  Obviously the little boy impatient and bored, tried to tell Donnie a number times...."I have to go potty!"  Ignored by him, the young boy set off on his own search for a "potty."  Not only did he find one, he found many, all neatly lined up and displayed for customer viewing.  One can only imagine what went through  the little boy's mind..."My goodness, so many to choose from, which one can I reach?"  Needless to say, proud of his accomplishment, wanting to show the proud Daddy, he summoned Donnie.  As we all laughed hysterically at the story, Donnie's final words......"I can never go back in that store again!"  Poor salesman...all for naught!