Memories of Prom...

This evening the students at Mexico High School will celebrate their prom. Although the prom is tonight, the preparations started months ago. The first and most important task is selecting one’s date for the evening. I believe it was “ladies choice” this year, I think this is a wonderful idea. Not all guys will procrastinate but with the girls it eliminates some of the girl’s stress. Once their date secured, it is time to start planning, prepping and primping. Yes gentleman ~ it all starts months in advance.

Some of my fondest memories of prom were the time spent with my best friends shopping and trying on dresses. We tried on dresses we knew we would never wear and we tried on dresses we “thought” would look good BUT were just the opposite. Then, weeks later, we put on “THE” dress knowing it is the one. By this time, we’re trying dresses on in our price range and within dress code.  I still smile when I think of my dress, I wish I wouldn’t have given it away. I chose a strapless (which slowed the fast dancing, lol) number. It was black on the top with a white and black polka dotted bottom.  Mind you, polka-dots were kind of my wardrobe theme for a couple years so when I saw this dress I was overcome with joy and excitement. My pulse raced and I was full of anticipation of going to my first prom.

As prom approached the hair appointment was confirmed, shoes were purchased, and my Gram’s shawl was borrowed. I was ready to conquer the world and enjoy an evening of dancing and laughter with my best friends. We were a small class of around thirty people, so our prom was small enough to be held at Vona’s Restaurant in Oswego. Our theme was “The Best of Times” and it truly was a wonderful time. Good friends and memories. Following the prom we all gathered at Gordy’s house – chaperoned by his parents and continued to party until morning when we went to breakfast. I was blessed with a small, close-knit and wonderful class ~ not only classmates, but friends!

My next prom memories were of Heidi’s prom. She was so beautiful and tall. She chose a hot little black dress for prom. We laughed about both choosing black for our prom, as if it we were in mourning for the end of our high school careers. I wasn’t able to be home when she was getting ready or leaving for the prom because I had to work. I was upset until one of the waitresses came into the kitchen and said, “Lisa, someone is here to see you.” And when I walked through the swinging door I saw Heidi smiling ear to ear and looking more beautiful and radiant than I had ever seen her. Oh my goodness! I was teary eyed…not only was she beautiful, she deviated from her original plans and schedule by having her date drive her thirty minutes out of the way so I could see her and be a part of her evening. I was so thankful, a memory no one can take from me.

We did a photo shoot in the middle of the restaurant. Heidi also worked there as the hostess and salad bar girl so she posed with all the girls too. We laughed, fussed and doted on her while she was there. Her poor date had a slew of “mother hens” reminding him of his manners and etc. My sister warning was made clear too, he smiled and assured me I had nothing to worry about, “Heidi can take care of herself. I’ll behave.” We smiled as Heidi rolled her eyes at me. After Heidi left, my buddy Jeanine snapped a photo of me biting my nails in worry. I was nervous, but not worried. Heidi could handle herself and she had a great group of friends.

Prom is an evening to celebrate, make memories and a rite of passage. Prom signifies the beginning of the end…our high school career is nearing completion with college, the Armed Forces or the work force closer than we once imagined. For those attending prom tonight – be safe and make good choices. For the parents sitting at home while their children are at prom, remember you have worked hard and prepared them for tonight and their future.

Will you join me in prayer today and tonight for our teens attending prom? Pray for safe journeys, wisdom and happy memories throughout the evening and into the morning hours. May they practice the life lessons taught to them thus far...