February Checkerboard Blog Hop

Oh dear, does anyone else feel like they can't quite catch-up since the Holidays?   I feel sort-of breathless trying to do all the tasks at-hand.

The exciting news: I was unexpectedly invited to attend a Black Tie Gala in Atlanta by a very special colleague at work..to represent my Hospital!  This was in recognition of some hard work over the last few months.  I was so honored ('speechless' at the time, as I recall..and I am never speechless).  I've never been to Atlanta before..this is all very exciting!!!

Segue: What to wear?!  I've never attended a Gala before.  My every-day wardrobe definitely doesn't include glitzy-glamorous pieces or a ball-gown.  I'm more 'business-casual' for work..nice slacks paired with a pretty sweater or classic button-down top.  I'm also in the process of gradually losing a bit of weight that had 'gradually' accumulated over the last 5-6 years (while I wasn't looking!).  So, right now isn't a good time to invest in clothing.

I did finally find, after lots of 'returns', a very pretty 3-tierd black chiffon-satin skirt! on-sale!  It was packed into the suitcase this morning, when I realized I didn't have a proper (ah-hem) slip to wear beneath it.  After the panic, I removed the skirt, then placed my tried-and-true dress black slacks into the suitcase instead (there was no time for shopping today..did I mention our roof was being replaced today..it was a mess).

Those black slacks, paired either with a black-silvery glittery bolero sweater (thank goodness I found this a few weeks ago, on-sale!) or a black chiffon jacket (also a deal-maker!) will be my outfit for the Gala.  True to form of late, my 'final decision' will occur in Atlanta while getting dressed.  Thank goodness I had a pair of almost-new sparkly high heals and a beaded black bag from my Niece's wedding 2 years ago..or I may have fainted today.  I think all of this will do nicely...and it's more 'me' and comfortable, yet still dressy..I hope.

So..the jewelry was also a last-minute decision today.  I knew I had a made a beautiful black and silver Swarovski Crystal necklace a few years ago that has received minimal (once) wear.  It is simple and elegant, but a bit too glittery for work.  YAY!..it is perfect for either of my outfits and the Gala.  I was even brilliant enough to make a pair of earrings to match the necklace..whew!

A few hours after packing, I was stunned to realize that Lisa Lodge's Pine Ridge Checkerboard Hop is due today and had nearly passed-by in my frenzy.  Again, I don't know where time has gone, this was the very first Challenge I had signed-up for with Lisa back in July or August of 2014.  This too all turned-out perfectly (albeit at the last-minute).

I had no bracelet for my Gala outfit...and that's just-not-right.  I pulled out Lisa's beads and those same Swarovski's used in my necklace..and here is my new Gala bracelet:

Lisa supplied those gorgeous deep red/claret pearls!  I added a cluster of dangles to give some movement (they will sparkle as I lift my hand to drink my Gala champaign!)  

Lisa, I promise I will make more from the rest of the kit, as soon as I catch-my-breath!  The beads are too pretty not to use!

Thank you for being with me today,
Carol