A Summer Night Ball
I grew up in Darmstadt/Germany during WWII. Even though a cruel war was commencing, our lives still were structured, filled with new things to learn and to study diligently. My father strived to bring as many activities into our lives as we could handle. My mother tried hard to keep us protected and safe yet let us have free time to do some of the things we love. At the age of 19, my sister Friedl had finished her education and enrolled into a dance studio to learn proper ball room dancing. My sister was two years older than I and she was enrolled first. After each course, each different dance they put on an evening of festivities and a formal ball. First course was the waltz, second course was the slow waltz. The third was my favorite, the tango. Then came the foxtrot, samba and rumba.
It was a surprise when my sister handed me a gold engraved invitation from the dance master to attend the summer ball at the end of the third dance course. I still remember my beautiful gown. It was a symphony! It was long and had a full circle skirt. The color of the silk crepe was a very pale grey with a hue of purple. About 10
Once again Ilona’s descriptions provide a photograph of a moment in time. I wish I had been there to see those dances! For them, a moment to enjoy being youthful and not think about the future that threatened so darkly.
How you can remember all the details of the event are amazing. The gowns you and your sister wore were described in such detail and so beautiful that I can see the two of you now.
I can just see Ilona and Friedl dancing with handsome young men in uniform. Ilona
Another beautiful story offering a glimpse of a time past.
Such vivid descriptions that evoke such festivity. You can feel the swirling dancers and the full music ensemble. Ilona was born to dance. Keep on dancing dear one, Love you.