Spare Time

     When I was little my parents belonged to bowling leagues at both of the bowling alleys in my town, Monroe, MI. One was right behind where we lived and I would often bike there and ride around in the parking lot or stop in for a slice of pizza.

    

    I loved when my parents had their bowling league night it meant I could explore the bowling alley and meet other kids that were there. I usually ended up in the game room, playing a car racing game, or buying the next sticker out of the machines.

    Sometimes I would find other kids to hangout with and we would hangout in the locker room where everyone kept their spare bowling balls and gear. No one minded us hanging out in there because we were quiet and respectful of other people's property. 

    When I got a little older I belonged to a bowling league of my own after school. Cosmic bowling, included pizza, pop and a trophy at the end. I loved seeing my friends and improving on my score. 

    On his days off my Dad would take me to the bowling alley behind our house to practice and improve my score and my throwing. I often curved my arm too much and ended up with one too many gutter balls.

    Overall the bowling alleys in my town were a big part of my childhood. I remember one time falling off my high top chair at Nortel Lanes and hitting the metal bar that separated the carpeted area and the sitting area where you wait to bowl. My lip busted open and swelled instantly, blood everywhere. OUCH. My Dad was right at my side to help.

    In Middle School I would go to the bowling alley's to sell candy bars to raise money for Band. My parents would take me on the nights they bowled, or if they had any spare time. I sold out boxes full every night. I ended up being the top seller and won a Razor Scooter, which was a very big deal in the early 2000's. 

    I read my memories of our bowling experiences, and mine to my Dad and this is what my Dad had to say: