Summer is long gone and fall is near. Sooo, what are you going to do on these long winter evenings? Hanging out with your three best friends the TV, the recliner and the fridge?
Well, that’s what my spouse and I were doing. During the COVID-19 years, it became a boring routine. We loosened our belts and stayed safe at home. I wish I could tell you that we made the best of it or that we were honeymooners during this time, but — not really.
Winter was boring. When it became safe to return to our work, the home habits stayed the same. We had few friends, no social life and couldn’t agree on ideas on how to get either one.
Getting popcorn at the movies strained our budget. We both hated the gym. We both liked music. But when one of my coworkers kept telling me about their square dance club and that lessons start in September, I gave him every excuse I could think up not to go — except the real one.
It seemed crazy to try something I did in grade school. The hardest part was walking through that door. Long story short, we did walk through that door and joined the group for lessons. It was nothing like grade school.
We felt welcomed by all and together this group were dancing easy to great music the very first night. We are still dancing with them today.
Square dancers are from all stages and walks of life. We dance because it is affordable, great fun physical exercise, interacting with other humans in a safe, friendly environment. An experienced partner is provided for singles.
Open that door for yourself. Like us, you might be surprised.
Here are two clubs that start lessons each September.
• Cougar Square Dance Club: Lessons start at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at Napavine Elementary School. Call 360-978-5156 for more information.
• Prairie Steppers Dance Club: Lessons start at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Oakview Grange, Centralia.
Carol Thompson
Onalaska
