BIG CHIEF

Most children learned to read and write fairly easily, and those who did not were thought to lack effort or ability , sometimes "failing" a grade or two.  Success came on the playground though since we all wanted to be on their softball or kickball team.

HITCHHIKERS GALORE!

It was a common occurrence to see hitchhikers along the highway.  When one would successfully catch a ride, sometimes several members of his group would be waiting further up the road, in hopes of being included.

RICE CANAL SWIMMING

Swimming in a rice canal was an event my whole family enjoyed.  Excess water from a rice field emptied into a large metal cylinder, and formed swift currents.  Floating down this current was the highlight of our outing.  Whirlpools were common where water was released at the cylinder's end, but beyond these whirlpools, calmer waters enabled swimming.

THE TELEPHONE BOOTH

Many idle teen-age hours were spent trying to think of different things to do.   One popular plan was to see how many would fit into a telephone booth. 

RELATING TO PINOCCHIO

 As a child, I learned it was too difficult to keep up with the many fibs and exaggerated stories I told, and decided it was much easier to tell the truth - not as much fun, but definitely easier.

CAP GUNS

Children grew up playing Cowboys and Indians using cap guns and bows and arrows.  Caps came in red rolls that made a loud pop when the trigger was pulled, and arrows had rubber suction cups on the ends.    

THE PERFECT MACHINE

"Fixing up" one's car (jalopy) was a popular past-time for boys, and flames painted on the sides were especially prized. One boy I knew in the ninth grade had turquoise and black checked seat covers that his mother made for him.