Cannonballs

Cannonballs

Noel Laflin

8-4-19

I look at the kids running about the hotel pool, splashing, jumping, hollering, and in general, having the time of their life. Pools and warm summer days can do that to you.

As a kid I would silently, but fervently, pray that our folks would land us a motel with a pool as we made long road trips across the west. Dad’s idea of a good motel was an inexpensive one. But occasionally prayers were answered and no matter the hour, I was performing my very best cannonball.

Kids have it better nowadays, at least when it comes to pools. And most motels have been replaced by nicer hotels as well, so there is that. And despite the cultural change regarding things like electronic devices and access to social media - concepts foreign to a generation reared back in the Eisenhower administration - pools will usually win out over a cellphone every time.

I am thinking of joining the crowd over there, but alas, I have forgotten the swim trunks. I can picture them back home sitting on the dresser feeling quite bitter for the oversight.

Just as well, I suppose, as I would not want to show up the kids of today what a cannonball of yesteryear really looks like.