The writing prompt today was as follows:
Humans have very strong scent memory. Tell us about a smell that transports you.
My sister and I getting ready for a dance recital in the 80s
Think 1980-something, in the fall and early winter.
Teenage girls, donning Gloria Vanderbilt, Sergio Valente or Sasson jeans and fuzzy sweaters, and coating soft, supple, unspoiled skin with Merle Norman makeup.
The bathroom mirror is shared to capacity, each girl straining to get the best view. Makeup stains, and hair filled brushes line the formica countertop along with curlers and Aqua net hairspray. Speaking of hair, it had been determined by those who determine all trends that as for hair; the bigger the better.
Thus, the girls bent upside down, with luscious locks falling all topsy-turvy, and hairspray creating a fog so thick, we were dangerously close to needing a lighthouse. But coat it we would, ensuring that it last through Endless Love and Keep On Loving You and Celebration and whatever else our cassette tapes held.
Glossy lips shimmering, Bette Davis eyes complete, gaudy earrings hanging, charm necklaces bulging with charms, which continually caught in the sweaters, and finally everyone is ready.
It is at last time for the last touch, the scent. Our favorites at the time were Cinnabar and Ciara. It was always one or the other. I have never been able to smell Cinnabar without it bringing me back to those carefree, teenage dating days.
My mom, my sister and I and many of our friends wore it. It’s funny how a scent can transport you to a special time and place filled with such delightful memories.
Memories as sweet as the scent of Cinnabar.
Long walks and dark chocolate 
Love it.
thanks, Karen 🙂
Funny. I grew up in the 80’s too. What a great time!!
yes it was 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
Ahhh…..Cinnabar! I had forgotten that perfume until now. Thank you for the great memories!
no problem; I loved re-living that time also!
I also wore Cinnabar back then & still do today. Susie & I always said it was a scent for the winter months.
I still love Canoe on my husband…yes, that’s what he wore when we were dating!! Does bring back years of memories!!
Maybe you can find some and bring Canoe back again 🙂
Yup, we had to hunt for it on-line…but they’re still selling it!! Oh, Happy Day!!
Love it! I have a dance studio near Kansas City and we have an annual recital. All the smells bring me excitement and they are the same every year!