Saturday at the Fish Market
Saturdays are always busy at the market ; Lonnie suggested they come early. Mary Jane foolishly asked what the earliest time was they might arrive. Lonnie said he started work at 5 A.M. They settled on 8.
Brad and Stacy got in the car drowsy, but by the time they had all made the trip into Seattle and found a parking spot, her kids were wired and ready for action. The questions were unending. "Where do they get the fish? Are they big fish? Do they have any sharks? Will there be any other kids there?"
As the three walked down Pike Place to the market, Mary Jane was struck by how quiet and calm it was. She immediately spotted Lonnie standing by the fish display. She was impressed with how neatly organized the stand was, with the fish and seafood packed in ice and signs detailing names, prices, and special qualities. One section was empty except for the ice.
"Good morning," said Lonnie with his customary smile. "And who are these two fishmongers?"
Mary Jane introduced her children. Lonnie welcomed them and said it was time to get to work. As she, was removing her notepad from her purse, he stopped her and said, "No, not that kind of work. I thought you three could help me finish this display."
"Cool," said Brad.
"I couldn’t find any boots your size, but I did find three aprons to wear. Here, put these on and we’ll start packing fish."
Stacy looked a little bewildered; Mary Jane gave her a quick hug. Lonnie took Brad into the back of the store to visit the fish locker, while Mary Jane kept Stacy entertained with a walk among the displays. In about fifteen minutes, Lonnie and Brad returned pushing a mammoth cart full of fish. To be exact , Lonnie was pushing the cart -Brad was hanging on to the handle with his feet just touching the ground.