Invasion of the Milkshake Gulpers

Friday, just before noon, a strange phenomenon hit the Wawa at the corner of Darby and Eagle roads in Havertown.

It happens a few times a year, usually on a Friday. Dozens and dozens of middle school students flood the Wawa. As they rush in, they drop their backpacks on the floor by the front door. They are motivated by an unyielding hunger, satisfied mostly by milkshakes, hot dogs and the occasional soft pretzel.

Like a swarming herd they come, celebrating their early release from Haverford Middle School, just down the street.

They mean no harm. In fact they're welcomed and good for business.

A swarm of young teens and a few tweens who, like moths to a flame, are instinctively drawn to the milkshake machine.

Within a few minutes, the swarm disperses, and their early weekend begins.