Woah Kids!

"Apparently there is nothing that cannot happen today." - Mark Twain


Some of life's most unexpected moments may happen when you are on a road trip. This summer I have taken a few road trips, and in each one an element of surprise awaited. That's what makes road trips so unique, you never know what will happen.

On a recent trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin we made a stop at The Apple Holler. My friend Brian recommended we stop there, not just for lunch, but to sniff and taste all things apples. Yep, anything you can possibly make with apples as an ingredient, they had it. There is something to be said about scents and how they can transpire one's behavior and thinking. Just the aroma of fresh apple pies baking in the oven can make any frown turn to a smile.

 

The one thing that I found quite noticeable, aside from the smell of apples being baked in pies, cakes, bread and even donuts, was the consistent joy upon all the teens and pre-teens working there. Each of them were so happy to welcome you into their establishment that I began to feel suspicious.

I, for one, am not used to seeing happy teenagers working. Perhaps it was because I was in a different state. Or maybe it was because these kids enjoyed working in farm bib overalls. Maybe it was because they were working within the sweet aroma of baked apples. Whatever the case, it was a delight to see kids that were happy in their environment.

 

Former all-star basketball player Charles Barkley once said,

 

"I'm not a role model...Just because I dunk a basketball doesn't mean I should raise your kids."

 

What I think Charles was driving at was that it's the parents responsibility to teach their kids morals. Athlete's are human just like everyone else and make mistakes too. In fact, sports stars are under more pressure because everything they do is defined under a microscope.

 

Parents should take the responsibility in setting the standards for the children to live by. Create an enjoyable, happy, loving environment for them within your home.

 

I believe at the Apple Holler most of the teens working there were a part of the family. Hence their enjoyment of serving others, smiling, and being polite was apart of their upbringing. Whatever their parents are doing, they are doing it right.

 

Create an environment for your kids. Not just a safe one, but a home filled with love and joy; for when your kids grow older they are a reflection of you, so make it a good reflection.