I have fond memories of Mom and Dad packing all five girls in the station wagon, along with certain necessities, and hauling us to the Drive-In movies for a night’s entertainment. What a treat! We’d watch the movie while gouging on buttered popcorn and soft drinks, totally unaware that one day we’d be wearing those mounds of butter on our hips—but, that’s another story.
If the movie lasted longer than our eyelids, we’d climb to the back seat of the station wagon, and there was our bed; complete with pillows, covers, and stuffed animals. Which were my sisters', of course. I was never insecure and didn’t need stuffed creatures for comfort. Okay fine, mine was Pluto. You happy now?
Sometimes we’d even stretch out on the hood of the car. There was something about lying under the open sky and seeing all those stars … on the screen, and in the sky!
Drive-in theaters are like cheap gas … almost extinct. And what a shame. Where else could teens go, stuff ten people in a car and the trunk, then drive in and watch the latest flick for the price of one person? You could car hop, watch movies on a screen bigger than life, and see everybody in town for about three bucks. You might arrive with one set of friends and leave with another, never worrying about being left behind. There was always a ride home. The large screen wasn’t the only place that held action. Cars with fogged windows meant somebody was going steady; or about to. Talk about “built-in” gossip. Mom's and Dad's knew you were always safe because everybody knew everybody, at the Drive-In.
Nowadays, you need to take out a second mortgage to be regular movie goers … or at least get a small loan to cover admission. Forget the candy counter and don’t even think of trying to smuggle M&M’s, Snickers, or Milk Way’s in your purse. Candy Narcs! Who knew?
Last weekend, THE SON asked if I’d like to go to the movies with him and his new girlfriend. Translated this means, we’ll tolerate your company if you pay for everything. I said, “Sure, just let me sell one of my kidneys first.” Being a sap, I caved. We decided on an afternoon matinee. How was it? Let’s just say I’m looking for a second job. What an extravaganza!
She couldn't live without Milk Duds? And a small popcorn sans the extra butter wasn't good enough for HIS girlfriend, noooo. For someone a size three, that girl can sure pack it away! However, I smiled to myself as I thought of her menopausal days, yet to come.
Regardless of what THE SON might tell you, I didn't know she was really choking. Besides, I saw two water fountains in the lobby. WHAT? Hey, sodas aren't cheap and I only have one kidney left.
Let’s bring back the good old days of Drive-In Theaters, 50-cent popcorn and cokes, and carload admission. And while we’re at it, cheap gas. Who’s with me?
