My morning with the Astronauts

W
ho says growing older isn’t any fun? I would say that after my morning with the Astronauts, a coffee club of retirees that meets at the 4-Way Gas ‘N Go, where retirement is the party that never ends. 
The Astronaut Club was started several years ago (at least more than 30). Some of their first members were Walt Soper, Carl Junck and Don McColley, among a number of other important fellows. Unfortunately, none of these starting members were at the 4 Way when I was there, but I was able to speak with a few other fun fellows — and a gal too. 
Homer Hastings, Mike Zeimet (not yet retired), Franklin Kieselhorst, Harvey Dummer and Blanch Cox (the only woman in the club) were the Astronauts I had the pleasure of interacting with. 
Of course, Hastings, who has been part of the club for about six years and originator of the name, made sure to tell me everyone’s nickname, including his own, although the one he mentioned for himself was his favorite. Others had a few other nicknames for him. 
Homer “Mountain Man” Hastings, or “Motormouth,” as Cox said, are among Hastings’ nicknames. I do have to admit I understand why his nickname is Motormouth — he was definitely the mouthpiece of the bunch and had a lot of witty quips that kept me entertained. 
“He talks and talks and talks,” Zeimet said. 
Some of the nicknames for the other members present were “Iron Mike” Zeimet, “Pastor Frankl” Kieselhorst, “Humble Harvey” Dummer and “Aunt B.” Hastings said that Penny Loebs, who works at the 4-Way, has earned the nickname “Nickel.” 
Hastings said that a lot of the Astronauts meet at the 4 Way, coming and going, from about 8:30-10 a.m. 
The idea behind the Astronauts’ name, Hastings said, was because they’re just “old people taking up space.” 
Zeimet laughed.
“Who comes up with all this junk?” he quipped. 
The Astronauts like to tease and jest one another a lot, which was very amusing to watch. 
Zeimet said that Hastings is involved in numerous clubs and joked that he doesn’t have much to do. 
“He doesn’t get much done but go around and drink coffee,” Zeimet said.
“But I gotta check my day planner every day to make sure I’m not busy,” Hastings responded. 
Hastings joked that members have to be voted in, but Zeimet had something to say about that. 
“I don’t remember voting for you,” Zeimet said. Hastings, of course, responded that he didn’t remember voting for Zeimet either. 
By the end of my hour or so with the Astronauts, I was thoroughly amused. They are a fun bunch to visit with. They made sure to tell me that when I retire, I’m welcome to become an Astronaut as well.
Well! I may just take them up on that offer when that time comes!