What would life be like without passion? Shall we join the San Diego Vintage Dancers on the Berkeley, the historic ferryboat on Harbor Drive in San Diego?
It’s a balmy Sunday afternoon, the ocean breeze fills the top deck of the ship. But wait! We’ve got a tall order to fill.
A quick warning from Mary Jennings and husband, Harry Eisner, the founders and heartbeat of the San Diego Vintage Dancers, whose imagination and hard work have put the San Diego Vintage Dancers “on the map!”
YOU MUST DRESS UP, AND WEAR A LONG SKIRT, AND A WHITE OR CREAM BLOUSE, OR SOMETHING THAT LOOKS VINTAGE. DRESS IS SUMMER WHITES OF THE ERA 1890-1920, AND MAYBE EVEN NAUTICAL. THAT’S AN IMPORTANT THING FOR OUR GROUP… WE ARE AUTHENTIC, LOVE OUR WORK, AND TAKE IT SERIOUSLY.
Don a wide-brimmed hat, held on with a decorative 9” hat pin, pull out your mom’s long strands of pearls, and gloves (either long or short)—were’re going back to that bygone era for three hours of dancing.
If you’re a guy, how about the barber shop quartet look, or a pair of spats if you own them? Need a pair of shoes that look like this? There will be a gentleman there who makes them by hand. 
Can’t find the right dress, ladies? Hope you’ve had the time to call Shelley Peters of Sew Period! who has created a gem for you.
Got your gloves, ladies and gentlemen? Let’s go. We don’t want to miss a minute!
Enter the passion-filled world of gleaming wooden church pews, an open dance floor with fans a blowing, and Jacquelyne Silver playing (on an almost honky tonk piano), accompanied by Floyd Fronius on the violin and John Hurst on bassfiddle and bass. Hear the strains of Great Big Beautiful Doll, By The Light of the Silvery Moon, or (sing along with me, if you will):
“Meet me in St. Louis, Louis,
Meet me at the fair,
Don’t tell me the lights are shining
any place but there;
We will dance the Hoochee Koochee,
I will be your tootsie wootsie,
If you will meet in St. Louis, Louis,
Meet me at the fair.”
Hurry! We can’t miss a beat! Or as one white-jacketed, gleaming gentleman will tell you, as he bows slightly to you, “If I get to the place where I can’t dance, please just treat me like a horse and shoot me.”
Check out the dashing couple who met on a ballroom dance floor. She’ll tell you that she couldn’t afford to take lessons from him (a dance instructor), so she opted to date him instead. She pauses to catch her breath as he grabs her for a Polka, whispering under her breath, “I just hang on for dear life.” Whirl, whirl, whirl …
Okay, ready for the Fox Trot, Rumba, Two-Step, Swing, Charleston? Let’s go …
What’s your age? It’s not a consideration. You’ll find a partner at this Tea Party. Not sure of your skill level? The mesmerizing beat of the music will keep your feet a’hopping.
Another decade, another era. But the energy and passion filling the Berkeley Ballroom will fill your soul and energize your spirit. You’ll be moved to a heightened sense of awareness. I swear that you’ll come away feeling ten pounds lighter!
Feel the passion? Care to share what YOUR passion is? Shall we dance?
Carpe Diem,
Dar
July 7th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
Hi Darlene
What a great post!
Your headline grabbed me instantly! (I love dancing). I could imagine being there, dressed in period costume. Thoughts of ballroom dancing lessons were flitting through my mind as I was reading your post (I loved ballroom dancing many years ago).
I thought of Dad when I read, “Meet me in St Louis, Louis” because he used to sing that line regularly. I can’t remember whether he sang the rest of the song, but that line jumps out at me.
I have many passions (aside from my family – that speaks for itself) including:
* Counted cross stitch (I’m addicted to this!) and knitting (this too!). There are many other crafts that I enjoy too, but these two are at the top of my crafts list.
* Music, both playing and listening to. Mum began teaching me to play piano when I was 8, then I had lessons for 3 years from another lady. I bought myself a piano for my 21st birthday and I play it regularly, although not as much as I should or would like to – life gets crazy at times! I do play some other instruments, but the piano is my favourite.
I have a fabulous collection of records and CDs and I’m thrilled that my 3 children all love music too.
* Reading and writing. I have so many books! I still have every book I’ve owned since childhood, and regularly add to my collection. I love learning new things, and reading is a big part of that.
I love writing, including writing poems. I’m the most creative (writing-wise) at night – usually when I should be trying to sleep! Inspiration often hits me at the strangest times!
* My latest passion is … tap dancing! I’ve been having lessons since the start of this year and I’m loving it! In a few weeks, I will be having clogging lessons too (it is very much like tap dancing), and hopefully jazz lessons (if there are enough adults interested in this class). This year is the 5th year that my eldest daughter has been having tap, jazz and ballet lessons and she loves it too.
I’ve always loved dancing around the loungeroom. My sister (and sometimes my brother too) would play records and dance for hours when we were kids. I still do this regularly, either by myself (stop laughing! hehe) or with my kids. It’s a great workout but more importantly, it’s terrific fun! My parents both enjoy dancing and used to go to all the local cabarets.
I’m a very passionate person, in case you hadn’t worked that out!
Darlene, you stated that the San Diego Vintage Dancers are authentic, love their work and take it seriously … you’ve identified the key attributes that are present in anyone who is passionate about what they do, whether it’s a hobby, family, their job, helping others or business!
When each of these qualities are present, there is passion.
~ Kylie ~
PS: I’m going to have “Meet me in St Louis, Louis” going around in my head all day now!
Kylie Doak´s last [type] ..A Blast From The Past
July 7th, 2010 at 5:44 pm
Oh Kylie,
You are so incredibly talented! I knew you were very passionate about music and reading. Now I’ve learned more about how wonderful you are:)
July 7th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
Thanks, Darlene.
*hugs*
Kylie Doak´s last [type] ..A Blast From The Past
July 7th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
I could picture you on the dance floor, Kylie!
July 7th, 2010 at 5:51 pm
How fun! What a great time! A great date night!people of all ages could really enjoy reliving the past while taking pleasure from the present!
Did you dance, Darlene?
Linda G. Cox´s last [type] ..How to Back Up Your WordPress Blog Regularly- Once-
July 7th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
No, Linda, I didn’t dance. There weren’t any slow dances. I shared it vicariously with others.
July 7th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
This looks like a wonderful time. I love your free writing style. I always enjoy visiting your blog.
July 7th, 2010 at 9:57 pm
Thanks, Nicole! I’m glad you enjoyed the spirit of the moment. I appreciate you!
July 8th, 2010 at 6:18 am
Darlene,
OK, I’ve driven by the Berkeley and I’ve even walked by it many times but I didn’t know that this fun little activity was taking place. We just might have to check it out one day.
Just about every Friday night for the last 3+ years it’s been date night for Terri and I. Our date? Dancing! After going on a cruise together and seeing how much fun the people dancing were having we decided we wanted to learn. So we took up dancing to get ready for our wedding dance and we never stopped. Something we are grateful to have learned and something we can do into the wee old age. It’s just so much fun. Anybody on the fence thinking about taking up dancing…Go For It! You’ll be glad you did.
Don Enck´s last [type] ..Is Customer Service A Lost Art
July 8th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
Don,
I’ll be sure to let you know when the next event is scheduled. Would LOVE to see you and Terri do the Polka!
July 8th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Hi Darlene,
Love your post and the video was great! All those couples looked like they were having a wonderful time. The dress was beautiful and vintage.
It reminded me that Dave and I took some swing dancing lessons many years ago now and it was a lot of fun. I think Dave remembers the moves better than I, but it wouldn’t take long to relearn!
Next time ask for a slow song so we can see you dancing in your white vintage dress!
Dawn and Dave
July 8th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
Dawn,
It’s a ton of fun to step outside the box and experience a new, rare activity. Let me know when you and Dave put your dancing shoes back on!
July 8th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
Hi Darlene, looks like you had so much fun. I love dancing with my man and we have said often that we would like to take up dancing, maybe this is our reminder.
Belinda
belinda cunningham´s last [type] ..Creating a link to an external URL in your menu bar of a wordpress blog
July 8th, 2010 at 1:07 pm
Hey Darlene I noticed you are replying to all your comments!!!!
belinda cunningham´s last [type] ..Creating a link to an external URL in your menu bar of a wordpress blog
July 8th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Belinda,
You can teach an old dog new tricks!?!
July 8th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Hi Darlene
I too was captivated by your heading. I did a lot of dance when I was younger. My husband and I resumed lessons with an adult group some years back and then fell away. I am motivated to start again.
Thank you for writing this post.
Sue
Sue Price´s last [type] ..Business Mindset
July 8th, 2010 at 8:41 pm
Sue,
You will not be sorry when you follow through with your motivation. Dancing is not only super exercise, it’s also a way to renew your spirit!
July 9th, 2010 at 7:18 am
Hi Darlene,
I really enjoyed this post and video. What a great way to wind up the week by remembering to take time to smell the roses! These guys really get into the whole spirit of the dancing and that is so great to see…folks expressing their passion.
Thank you,
~ Linnea
Linnea´s last [type] ..Niche Marketing
July 9th, 2010 at 7:44 am
Linnea,
Whatever your passion might be, indulge it and savor the moment. So glad you enjoyed the dancing.
July 9th, 2010 at 8:16 am
Darlene,
What a great post. I actually felt as if I was back in that time from your wonderful descriptions. Dancing has always been a passion of mine. Thanks for a step back in time,
Val
Val Wilcox´s last [type] ..Renew Your Mindset With Faith
July 9th, 2010 at 8:54 am
Val,
With the hours we spend at the computer, it is truly refreshing to clear the slate and participate in activities that are way off the grid. This was one of those times. I always enjoy your comments. Thanks for experiencing this as I meant it to be felt—a step back in time!
July 9th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
Hi Darlene,
This was the next best thing to being there! Your descriptions were so real I could picture everything that was going on, even before I saw the video. What a great time machine experience!
Luv ya!
Debbie Stevens´s last [type] ..Where The Action Is
July 9th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
Debbie,
Thanks for vicariously enjoying the experience with me. It was truly one of a kind!
July 9th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
Such fun, I think I could get into that. I saw several guys with two left feet which may me feel right at home. Great post and great video.
Nelson´s last [type] ..“He was Voted Most Likely To Not Make It”
July 9th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Left feet are okay, Nelson. It is the spirit that counts! I have two left feet, too.
July 9th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Hi Dar,
Dancing is absolutely one of my passions, this particular style has never quite been my thing, however, I believe that had I been a part of that era, I’m sure it would have been.
It certainly has an elegance and grace about it and the gowns are gorgeous.
Thanks for sharing Dar
In Health and Harmony
Toni
Toni King´s last [type] ..Winter Warmth
July 9th, 2010 at 5:41 pm
Toni, So what form of dancing are you passionate about? I can definitely picture you having fun on the dance floor …
July 10th, 2010 at 7:21 am
Dancing is so much fun.I had to read this because I love to move to the music.I was on an adult competition dance team one year.So much fun once I did the first competition and we won! Love the video here.Thanks for sharing.
Beverly Monical´s last [type] ..The Power Of Teamwork
July 10th, 2010 at 9:49 am
Beverly,
What is your favorite dance? Kudos for winning a competition!
July 10th, 2010 at 8:47 am
I love to dance. Although I prefer the way it is done here and love when we have a family wedding or anniversary and it’s dance time. I have even gone with my Grandfather to his Old Time Dance evenings to enjoy some of the real old time steps. Great fun!! I get my dancing teaching fitness classes and Zumba now! Movement is music to my muscles!!
Holly
Holly´s last [type] ..It’s not the Fat in Your Diet Part 7
July 10th, 2010 at 9:48 am
Holly,
When you went with your grandfather did you ever dress in period costumes? That was part of what gave the dance such an authentic feeling.
July 10th, 2010 at 9:21 am
Darlene,
Thanks for such a great post. I’m ALL about passion, which is why I’m “The Passion Doctor” of course!
Dancing is such a great way for couples to stay connected to each other. I wrote a blogpost on this over a year ago, so forgive the shameless self-promotion, but I think you’ll enjoy it: http://passion101.com/blog/2009/05/dance-the-passion-back-into-your-relationship/
Thanks again,
Adam
Dr. Adam Sheck´s last [type] ..Stop Making Excuses For Not Having Sex-
July 10th, 2010 at 9:45 am
Dr. Sheck,
Feel free to promote yourself on my blog anytime! Would have loved to backlink to “Dance The Passion Back Into Your Relationship”. What a beautiful way to rekindle the flame!
July 10th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
What a fantastic post, I recently had the privilege of dancing with my 5 year old niece at a wedding, she stood on my shoes as we strolled across the dance floor. When everyone parted and gave us center stage, her face lit up like a Christmas tree. It was a magical moment that she and and I will share for a lifetime.
Clint White´s last [type] ..Is your blog multi-browser compatible
July 11th, 2010 at 12:03 am
What fun Darlene….looks like you had a ball:-) And I love your writing style…I could really imagine being there.
July 14th, 2010 at 4:51 am
Hi Darlene,
You are a beautiful writer…I felt like I was there. Although I’m not much of a dancer, it looked like so much fun!!! I love the clothes and the music of that era.
MaryKay
MaryKay Edelen´s last [type] ..How To Add A Gravatar To Your Comments On WordPress
July 14th, 2010 at 7:36 am
Thanks, MaryKay. It was truly a “step outside of the box” moment. I highly recommend using such times to totally refresh and regroup. They are very inspiring!
August 22nd, 2010 at 6:49 pm
I love dancing. Its always important to step out of the race of life to enjoy ourselves, nice post Darlene.
Aki Wood´s last [type] ..Evil Distractions That Will Kill Your Business
August 27th, 2010 at 6:50 pm
Good post thanks for the information.