All are invited to the third annual "Willow Manor Ball"

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Third Annual Willow Manor Ball! The festivities will begin at 12:00 a.m. EST, this Thursday, September 30. Everyone who leaves a comment on Thursday, will be included in the drawing for two elegant door prizes. A Mr. Linky widget will be provided if you would like others to visit your blog, to see your special date and elegant attire. I can't wait to see what you creative bloggers do with this!

The above invitation is from Willow of Willow Manor.  (click to see her blog)  Everyone is invited.  I'm looking forward to a most magnificent ball ... actually, my first EVER Ball!  I feel a bit like Cinderella.  And did I mention that ANYONE can view all the festivities that are going on by visiting Willow's site?  There is even a "Linky" available to easily see who is wearing what and WHAT is going on!

At first I didn't think I would be able to attend - very busy with kids and all. But once my girls heard of the event, they got busy and helped me with my wardrobe. Of course, once I received word that my youthful fantasy of dancing with Patrick Swazey on the dance floor was about to come true as he accepted my invitation (he has had enough of sadness and sorrow and wants to return to this realm just for The Willow Ball), how could I not join in the revelry? My husband must work, but he has informed me he will be waiting up for my return.

But what to wear?  Well, My girls found a number of worthy (and some not so worthy) works of art... Here were a few of the contenders... (oh, and all photos are from Google images)

After a lot of nail biting (no, my nails are all beautifully polished), I mean deliberating on my part, the girls defending their picks, and my husband (after drooling after the gold concoction), we "somewhat" unanimously selected this one:

I liked the soft material and the image of the folds as I am tossed and twirled by Patrick, well I just can't wait! I arranged for the designers to make my dress in a deep red - very much like dress #1 (above). 

My shoes, no problem.  If I'm going to dance, then I am going to be practical!  I was lucky to be able to get these shoes in silver... all the better to match my diamonds necklace and earrings.  These are dance shoes with a flexible sole (and my legs, of course!)

Many hairstyles were considered.  But after many oohs and aahs, my girls and I decided an up-do wouldn't be sensible - not with the way Patrick Swazey dances.  So it was a fierce battle between 3 styles...

One that is pretty close to what I have now...

Well, this one I couldn't get past the cleavage...

And this one my oldest daughter and I thought was charming and befitting of the event.  My diamond clip is  a bit smaller in order to not compete with my jewelry.  But, really, can one honestly have too many diamonds adorning their body?  I did need to go in for a few hair extensions, but the result has been well worth it...

And last, but not least, by any means... the jewelry.  I fell in love with this little number.  I also slipped the photo of it into my husbands wallet... :)

Well, there you have it.  I am giddy with anticipation and waiting for the car to pick me up... Oh, I almost forgot... my mode of transportation.  This one was quite easy.  My favorite, sexy little car is a jag, but for this evening I added a little twist...

A vintage Jaguar...

So, ladies, get ready to be dipped and whirled by Patrick, as only he knows how.  After all, I'm sure I will need a few breathers!

It's about time to leave and I am trying to finish folding the last of my laundry and I'm worrying about how will all these chores get done.. Oh, look - Patrick has arrived.  "Oh sweetie, I'm just not sure I can make it ... there is ...  so much ... to do...  What's that?"  Patrick has leaned over and his lips are an inch from my ear (that is why I am so flustered - wouldn't you be?)  He is whispering...

"And the night shall be filled with music,

    And the cares, that infest the day,

Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs,

    And as silently steal away."

Oh my, I think that might be from "A Day is Done" by Longfellow (or edited by him, not sure which).  Either way, I was not aware that Patrick, along with his obvious talents, was a poet as well!

As I collect my wrap (and my heartbeat gets a chance to slow down a bit),  Patrick is bowing low over each of my daughters hands (insert lots of giggling) and saying goodnight.  He places my hand in the crook of his elbow (and oh, my ... these amazing arms of his), and my cares really have slipped away...

Don't forget to go to Willow's blog and check the event out for yourself.  And if you couldn't make it this year, maybe you should pencil it in for next. 

And remember, if you are able to make it - wall flowers, beware!  Nobody is safe sitting in a corner when Patrick is around...