Only in America

(I originally titled this "A sad sight," but changed it after I saw John's most recent post. I wrote it before I saw his commentary, and it is, I think, an interesting contrast, if purely anecdotal . . .)

In the grand scheme of things this is a decidedly minor event, but I was at the grocery store this morning, debating the merits of Granny Smith versus Golden Delicious, when I heard a torrent of footsteps and giggles coming down the aisle. As the stream of 20 or so kids rushed by, all in the same monochrome camp t-shirts, I idly wondered why they were in a supermarket rather than outside on a beautiful day.

On the other hand, I didn't really care that much, so I went about my shopping. A few minutes later, I rounded a corner to find the group all sitting in front of the deli counter looking up at an animated store employee. Eh?? I walked over, and caught the end of the excited explanation, ". . . and they live in the ocean, eating other small shellfish and plant life on the ocean floor. Now this guy won't bite, and his big claws have rubber bands around them, so you can even touch him! So are you ready to see a real live lobster?!?" Squeals all around.

So . . . when did the grocery store meat section become the place to learn about wildlife? With instructor Deli Guy, no less?? Very odd.