First Dance (Circa 1957)

Crinkling crinolines creating a ballooning circle rising out from my shins. They are itching. Socks neatly rolled into new maryjanes that are stiff and hurt my big toe. Afternoon spent at the salon smelling of perm, the radio blaring Diana and Wake Up Little Suzie. My corsage cold from the fridge pinned to a two-tight bodice. This skirt tilts up precariously when I sit down. Three crinkling crinolines creating a balloon. Waiting now for the red-headed boy with sweat wilting my curled hair. Only men sweat you say? ....women perspire? My perspiring upper lip ruining newly applied lip stick. The clock's ticking is the only way to know times passing. At last! The red-headed boy rings the door to be met by my father who humphs and parumps before we walk out into the cool carressing night with all the crinkling crinolines swaying.