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Looking Back

Looking back, small things seem to mean a lot today. 
Here's an example.  Our family had very little cash and so we did all of our wishful shopping in the evening when the stores were closed. It was called "window shopping". That way, we certainly were inspired regarding what we would like to buy, but we avoided the risk of making a foolish purchase, simply because all the stores were closed---except for one---the Planter Peanut  shop.
The Planter Peanut man played an important role in our young lives.  Sure, we knew all the stores were closed, but we also knew that the Planter Peanut man would be open for business.   And, because we did not have the opportunity to buy big ticket items, we did have enough money to buy some peanuts---and so we did.  It made the day for us children.
So, today, this is remembered far more than anything of greater purchases recalled.  Ask me why, I do not know, except its true.
Every so often, we would go upscale in the Planter store and buy some cashews.  Everyone escalates their purchases from time to time, this is the way we escalated ours---but at very little cost, but with a huge payout.---ask me why, I do not know, except its true.
As such, there are naturally some visions that stand out in one's memory.  Regarding the Peanut Man, there he was, a near life size mannequin, with the Peanut Man top hat, and the monocal--still visually impressed in my memory.
Our parents did this, not because they were so smart, but because they had to manage their money this way, and yet make sure their children had treats when it counted.  They did, and we benefitted.

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