Regular readers will know I am currently looking after my Mum and two relatives. She was taken ill on the 17th February and spent multiple weeks in hospital before coming home two weeks ago.
My Mum
Unfortunately, over these weeks her health has declined and she needs full time care, which I am giving as best as I can.
However, this blog is technically not about that.
Test Run
What it is about is a work event that I had bought a ticket for several months ago which took place last Saturday. The event was a charity ball in aid of an amazing cause and I was very much looking forward to it.
The Finished Trial
I had several evening gowns to choose from, some that I had showcased before Christmas and a couple of new ones. I had arranged for a hair appointment to ensure my hair was in tip top condition and everything was organised.
Ball Day
The only question was which one to wear, and the easiest way was to give them all a try and see which one was best for the occasion.
Now, that’s a fringe!
Given the options I had, a royal blue velvet gown seemed like the absolute winner as it went with the theme of the charity. I decided to accessories quite simply with a pair of dangly crystal blue and white earrings and an original vintage Lucite bag.
The Finished Look
The charity event was a dinner dance, with both a live band and a disco. Even though my dancing days are over, I was looking forward to spending time with friends, colleagues and partners whilst taking it all in and people watching.
Make-Up. Done.
Once I got ready, I headed over to the hotel where the event was being held. It started at 6.30pm but I arrived around 7pm and the bar area was already full of colleagues and friends.
Just The Dress To Go…
Sadly, there were no chairs in this area and my knee wouldn’t allow me to stand for any length of time, so I went into the area where all the tables were set out. These all had a wooden frame on listing the people who would be sat on each table.
She Wore Blue Velvet
In a small fluke, the first frame I looked at was the one I was to be sitting at. I gratefully took a seat, resting my knee and relaxing.
Velvet and Lucite
A few ladies came up and chatted, talking about outfits and mentioning my hair, which was such a lovely thing. I sat sipping my drink and people started to flood into the room.
The Ten Foot Woman
It was so good to see so many familiar faces and I was thrilled when my table mates all arrived and sat down.
Beautiful In Blue
The dinner had been chosen in advance and I was really looking forward to my choices; Pate of farmhouse chicken and pork with a spiced fruit chutney and herb toasts for starter and then chargrilled supreme of chicken with all the trimmings.
Starter Course
My dessert was a glazed lemon tart with raspberry sauce and clotted cream.
Main Course
The starter was absolutely divine; the herb toasts were crunchy and perfect with the tasty, coarse pate. Adding the spiced chutney really gave it a zing and I have to say the portion size was pretty considerable.
Brilliant Ballroom
Onto to the second course and I was very happy with my choice again. A tender juicy piece of chargrilled chicken, pig in blanket, broccoli, roast potatoes, courgettes, and carrots.
Amazing Evening
It was absolutely beautiful; crunchy vegetables, succulent chicken, and fluffy soft roasties with a lovely crisp outer skin.
Close Up
All that was needed now was the dessert and coffee.
Blue Babe
After the dinner there was a raffle, some presentations and a game of silly bingo. These were all designed to raise even more money for the designated charity. I had already purchased some raffle tickets and had my fingers crossed.
No Blue Glasses….
The time was around 830pm and it was then I got a call. I was needed back at Mums.
Simple Make-Up
Sadly that was the end of the ball for me.
Next Day
I didn’t get to try the dessert, hear the band, play bingo or chair-dance to the disco. However, I had a lovely 90 minutes and it was just wonderful to get dressed up and go out for a little while.
Taking My Hair Down
As for my dress, well I can hopefully wear it again soon.
