There used to be a store in my neighborhood where a kid could ride his or her bike and stock up on candy for very little money. It was located about two blocks from my home, and about a block and a half from the high school. It was owned by one of my classmates’ parents, and the store shared their family name. In fact the family lived behind the store in the same building. That place was important in our neighborhood, from childhood right through graduation. A lot of kids spent their allowance and their lunch periods in that store. Here are some of things I remember buying there as a kid:

1. Wax bottles– Who knows what exactly those tiny bottles held, but they were so darn appealing.

2. Candy dots– Yes, you always ended up with paper in your mouth, but somehow it seemed worthwhile anyway.

3. Wax lips– No need for Botox with these around.

4. Fire balls– From spicy to sweet the pain was delicious.

5. Candy necklaces and ring pops – High fashion for the sugar loving set.

6. Bazooka Bubblegum– It was usually hard as a rock, but the comics were hilarious.

7. Cracker Jacks– Although I didn’t like peanuts, I loved the little prizes.

8. Fresca– It came in a tall glass bottle, and nothing was better on a hot summer day (never mind the saccharin).

9. Bottle caps– These little candies were shaped like soda bottles and were fun to eat.

10. Comic books– I usually went for the candy, but once in a while I picked up Archie or Richie Rich.

Thanks Mr. and Mrs. B, for running a store that a generation of kids holds in their hearts.