Inspired by Our Youth

Earlier in the week, I waited on a group of teenage girls who were a bowling team. They came to the Olive Garden to celebrate their friend Avery's 17th birthday. These gals were so sweet, spirited and polite. I really enjoyed them. It was freezing outside and a bit of drudgery driving to work, but this made it all worthwhile.

One of the girls, Amelia, told me that they were on a budget. They dispensed with the appetizer(s).

Amelia also told me later that she needed change but that she would be sure to leave me a tip. I thought that was so cute.

I rustled up my calling cards to give to each of the students. I shared how I like to write. One of them, Megan, asked excitedly, "Will you write about us?!"

I thought a moment, "Yes, why of course I will. You inspire me. You are all very refreshing. I have not written much lately.

Megan said, "Oh, 'writers block'".

"Yes, I suppose." I added.

Then she said, "Too bad that you couldn't write my paper for English class."

I got a kick out of that.

I told Avery to pick out a dessert for her birthday. "I will ask the manager to treat you."

She so thoughtfully picked out the Italian doughnuts. That way, she could share them with her teammates. I thought that was most considerate.

I punched in two orders of them which my manager graciously complemented.

Avery was so happy. We all sang 'Happy Birthday' to her - which by the way is one of my favorite songs - that and 'Auld Lang Syne'. I like the sentiment attached to them.

The girls were from Herkimer, or "The Valley" as we refer to it here in Utica. They were Jilly, Maddy, Havana, Amelia, who I took to calling 'Amelia Bedilia', Megan, Avery, Julia, and one other (name slips my mind) - eight in all.

I told them how my son goes to Herkimer for BOCES. They were genuinely interested and wanted to know which high school he attends. When I told them Mount Markham, one of them said that they were hoping to crush them in bowling.

They said that I was very nice and that some people would not be nice to them considering they were a "bowling team". This got me to wondering - What did they mean? They are all in a place where they can belong and support each other.

I gave them each their individual checks. One of them treated her friend which I thought was very sweet. They were generous too. God love them.

They had me take their picture which I wish that I had to show you all as their goodness shone through. Their team name is called 'The Magicians', and these gals were nothing short of magical.