Tonight we went to our middle grandchild's 6th grade production of "The Nutcracker Suite" and it was delightful. Our little guy was the star of the show (in our minds). The program plus all the picture-taking brought to mind all the Christmas programs of the past, those of my children, but even further back............to those of MY childhood. Those days when magic, awe, and wonder was new in my heart and as simple as a new dress. And I had a new dress every Christmas.........all my sisters did.
In those days women wore dresses........ to every "event", and their daughters were just as well dressed. My mom made almost all our clothes, but the dresses she made for her four daughters at Christmas were the highlight of the year. Black velvets, red satin, the tiny flowered satin print dress with the velvet tie belt, the navy satin that changed to plum according the light (I still remember twirling just to see the colors dance), the red corduroy jumpers with the white puffy sleeved blouse trimmed in red corduroy, the lace collars and bows, the lace insert skirts with matching blouses............ I even had a little fur coat with matching hand muffs. They were all adorable. Oh how I wish I could twirl in that navy satin dress again or touch the velvet. Those childhood sensory memories only enhance with time.
Those were the days. Everyone dressed, even the men. Everyone wore their best, but especially to something as important as a school play. When a teacher took the time to present a program for the parents, then it was important for us to show her respect and part of that respect was showing up in our finest. To look ones best. I truly think it gave us a sense of respect for ourselves.
I looked around tonight and I didn't see one dress and not one suit was in sight. I kind of long for those days when we dressed. I think I might put on a dress...........next time.
Times have changed. I love you.
Some things haven't changed. The cute kids in the productions. The pride the parents have for their children. The love all around us.
