What are you waiting for

The election is next Tuesday. H1N1 flu shots will be offered to a target set of people in Putnam County on Wednesday of this week. Christmas is only two months away.

Does anyone realize what all of these things have in common? If you guessed ‘waiting in line’ you are correct.

I used to hate waiting in line, especially when my children were young. They would pull at my hands wanting to do something else. I swear my arms are both an inch longer as a result of this time in life.

My daughter seems to be better prepared for lines than I ever was. On Sunday while she waited in line with her young children in Hancock County for their H1N1 shots the children colored.

When the line stopped for long periods of time, my grandson and granddaughter would sit on the ground and color. My daughter had been smart enough to bring along coloring books and crayons.

Now why didn’t I think of that.? I was always rooting around in my purse for something to entertain them with. Or else I would promise candy if they were good.

I am much better now when I wait in line. If I know it will be a long line, I bring along a book to read. Otherwise I like to watch people. It’s fun to see what other people do as they wait in line.

Many people talk on their cell phones. Others are busy text-messaging. Parents often bring video games for the children to play. It’s a whole new world now as you wait in line. A lot more entertaining world if you ask me.

I’ve seen some unusual pastimes also as people wait in line. One lady even tried doing a small crochet job. Now that’s an industrious woman. Many people during Christmas use the time to determine where they are in their shopping expedition and who still needs gifts.

I used to think of it as wasted time. Now I just try to enjoy it as free time.