When my voice started changing, mom decided I needed to learn the importance of social graces. Seizing the opportunity to dress me in a suit and tie, she signed me up for “Junior Cotillion.” Topics included acknowledgments of gifts, introductions, participating in group settings, paying and receiving compliments, sports etiquette, first impressions, and (of course) dress code for all occasions. We covered manners in the home and in public places, table manners, formal place settings, skills involved in being a guest, hostess or host, and many other areas of social behavior. Initially, I didn’t want to go but actually found myself enjoying the experience. By far, my favorite part, was learning to dance. We learned many different styles including foxtrot, swing, and my personal favorite, the waltz.
“I’m Happy Just to Dance with You“ is a song written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney[1] and recorded by the Beatles for the film soundtrack to A Hard Day’s Night. Lead vocals are by George Harrison, whose performance in the film marked the first commercial music video segment with Harrison singing lead. It is from Something New, (issued, 20 July 1964) the Beatles third Capitol LP release and fifth American album.
I love these glimpses of your history, Brad! Your mom was pretty savvy.
Love reading these, and love you Uncle Brad!!
This is great!!!! Is this why you had to wear suits to cardinals games. 👍
Another horrific memory I had managed to suppress until you brought that up. Thanks a lot. I’m choosing cremation when I die so I never have to put on another suit and tie.
You’re welcome. I’m the same way with wearing dresses. Ugh!!!!
Hey Brad, Such an interesting peek at your past —–you should put all these tidbits in book form and let the whole world know—-you certainly have the touch.
Sam and Ruth
Love the story and the music! My daughter did 2 seasons of Cotillion, let’s just say the 2nd season was not a hit with her! As a person who can not dance I wanted to make sure she had that skill and she did learn well. But dressing up and dancing with a boy (of all things) just wasn’t on her to-do list that second year.