I never thought it would be true, but waltzing is a relevant skill in my life. I learned when I was small, playing Brigitta in a community theater production of The Sound of Music but I didn’t realize that I’d need the knowledge later. I am in a waltz-necessary situation about three times a year, and I’m always mortified. Americans are notoriously bad dancers…I’d like to be the exception.

My friend and I are taking ballroom lessons with our kids this year. By next September I want to waltz competently and be able to enjoy several other dances.