My two oldest are in the show, Bye-Bye Birdie and a rather uncomfortable situation presented itself on opening night. I took my dancer daughter and sat in the patron’s section, making sure to look down upon the common folk in general admission. I don’t get to be a snob in my town very often as most of the houses around here are twice the size of mine. But with two in the high school drama program, the dues required made it about the same as paying to be a patron, so we joined the club and now enjoy reserved seating.
Last night I learned it is not advisable to eat risky foods prior to a two hour show. I love spicy foods and had been able to savor two distinct ethnic cuisines on this particular day. I don’t know exactly which one was the aggressor, but one of them crossed the line, instigating a border war deep inside. It started midway through act 1 and I did everything possible to keep the war contained to one front. At some point during the second act, one of the combatants wanted more territory like Hitler invading Russia and tried to open an eastern theater. I shifted in my chair so many times the poor guy behind me probably thought I was dancing with the actors, even when there was no music. Somehow, I managed to keep the entire battle to myself.
After the final bows, Dancer and I congratulated her sisters and friends on a wonderful show, took pictures, and left. I explained the raging war of the past two hours to my thirteen year-old, who rolled her eyes and said, “Dad, you need to go to Cotillion.”
I have only approximate knowledge of Cotillion. I looked it up and found out that it is classes designed to educate children on social skills, proper etiquette, manners and dance. As an adult, I am all for manners, especially for the boys who someday might want to date my daughters. The boy inside of me can think of nothing I would hate worse, though. I wonder what happens if you have to pass gas there. Do they have Cotillion police to escort you out immediately?
On a note related to boyhood, I got a fantastic review from a children’s lit blogger this week. Since I had sent the book in December, it came by surprise, precisely at a time when my spirits needed it. LINK. In her review, she ponders this question:
This book captures the essence of boyhood very well. I had to laugh numerous times at how well the author knows what it means to be a young boy. He either has a very good memory, or he never grew up, I’m not sure which one.
I would like to thank Mrs. McMahon for taking the time to read Virge and write such a glowing review. I can put her question to rest in two ways. First, my memory is terrible except for completely irrelevant movie and song trivia. Second, take a look at the title of this post.
A Generous Helping 
Priceless. You had me laughing the whole time…..
I’m always happy to give you a chuckle, Donna!
I smiled at the title and continued until the end. Being the mom of two boys, nothing surprises me. And, by the way, most men never REALLY grow up.
The story of my life – my body gets bigger, my mind stays immature. Glad you got a giggle
You’re not alone, Mark…feeling you!
You don’t think you’d like a Mrs. manners class?
Haha. Sure, give me the “Mr. Manners” course–just don’t take away my spicy food! My motto: “Eat now, pay later!” 😀
Sometimes it costs. That’s for sure.
this is hilarious, mark ) great post –
Thanks Beth. Glad I didn’t ever get dragged to Cotillion. That would have been ugly.
Hahahahahahahaha! My late uncle didn’t hold it in once when he was at a play. But from what I know, he was angry with the attitude of the woman in the same role, so when he passed by her, he let it go. At least I think that’s how the story goes…
=)
Wow, he was acting? That’s hysterical! He sounds like quite a joker.
Best that was the longest two hours ever 😀
It did seem to drag on. But the show was good and distracted me somewhat.
Can you imagine how long it would seem if it wasn’t good? At least you’ll know to go curry free next time.
Haha. India wasn’t involved.
You didn’t go for a chipotle did you? I have no idea what it is but I’ve heard bad things. 😀
My mother called it “Finishing School” and always threatened to send me, her tomboy daughter, there. The only thing that kept me from going is that she knew I wouldn’t stay and would probably hitch-hike my way out of there. It didn’t help that my older sister was a perfect girl, in every way. I’m just glad I now live in a house full of men (husband and sons), where I can get away with many un-lady like things.
Got to love those refried beans.
Haha! I have a daughter who would DIE if we made her go to finishing school, so I get that. Yes, refried beans were colonels in one of the armies, I’m afraid.