Last week, the public gardens were full of people dressed for prom.
I just love that I can walk anywhere in the city and witness stories unfolding. Why make plans? Just pick a direction and go.
I'm not sure if prom-photos in the garden is an annual tradition, or if it was just a nice day for them to get some pictures in the sunshine before the special dance. It seemed more like a spontaneous thing - like everyone had the same idea on the same day.
It was just a coincidence that I decided to detour through the gardens on my walk that day. But I wasn't the only one taking pictures.
(Can you spot both the photographers in the next photo?)
Nor was I the only one checking out the "scenery."
It wasn't just the ladies who looked nice. A few of the gents were dressed up too. Some even had their expensive corsages out, boxes awkwardly held so that they could be quickly sealed and cooled again until needed that evening.
(I am not ashamed to admit that I love that guy's shoes.)
I felt for the guys, though. It was pretty hot out, and all those black heavy suits couldn't have been comfortable. This was one day where something a bit more revealing was more weather-appropriate. (Although walking around in those sandals can't be easy for the women, either. The sacrifices we make for beauty!)
My own high school experience was a mixed bag, but I have to say I un-ironically loved prom. I went to three. It helped that we had our own oddball circle of friends and could be comfortable dressing up as much as we wanted - or not.
It was a pretty square scene in those days. The dance was full of bad music and hormones and people who'd gone to the trouble to make themselves look as gorgeous as they ever had. What's not to like?
Post-prom sleep-overs were held at someone's house, monitored by generous parents who put out lots of food and no booze and then just left us to ourselves. We played board games and no one got pregnant. What do you know?
These days, the post-prom parties are overseen by the schools and monitored as "Lock-Ins." Even at the end of high school, our kids are being taught to celebrate the limits put on their freedom - as if they can only have a good time while under lock and key.
Anyway, that got a little too political. Let's just focus on how good everyone looked on the first beautiful spring day of the year, and hope that everyone had a great time on a night they'll remember for the rest of their lives.
How about you? Did you enjoy your high school prom?
Would you go again, if it were held today?
