Sidetracked Charley

And it is off to the Ball The runway is still being repaired in Angel Fire so I had to throw my bags in my car and get to Taos early to meet my dates Henry Standing Bear and Walt Longmire. Lou Diamond Phillips Robert Taylor as Sheriff Longmire  It is cold and dark here on the Taos Volcanic Plateau before dawn but I think I have been promised a catered breakfast once the jet takes off for Ohio.  I am told a couple other members of the cast of Longmire are coming too but it is suppose to be a surprise. They had heard of the great fun to be had at the 6th Annual Willow Manor Ball . Seems last year's date, Johnny Depp has been talking about the Trinidad Rum Bracelet by Jessica Duke At the last moment before I left the house I spied my Jessica Duke silver bracelet from last year's ball and put it on. Something old to bring to the new adventure. See previous blogs for everything I have packed. And stay tuned for breaking news on the fun to be had at...

Last Year's Harlequin Coat  There is to be another ball at Willow Manor. The invite sent me to my virtual closet to look at last year's treasures. Johnny Depp was my date but sadly just a lend/lease for the night. I have thrown caution to the winds this year and extended two invites. Wouldn't it be grand if they both came? Of all my fabulous attire last year this Harlequin Coat was my absolute favorite and it will definitely serve as my traveling coat this year too. I am considering shunning the tight fitting ball gowns. I want something I can slide down the banister in, or like my friend, Barbara Lake last year, swing from the chandelier with abandon. If I get my wished for dates I will have to be ready for anything including midnight rides on half wild horses. I love this Harlequin get up. Looks to be very comfortable and free. Would like it with pantaloons and pirate boots like these. And  instead of a full mask I have considered exotic make up. Or...

After the Ball by John Silver Tired but happy this morning back in my Black Lake residence. Away from the sometimes maddening crowd of the Willow Manor Masked Ball . I live such a solitary and reclusive life as an artist that meeting and greeting all those people was exhausting. But it left me with many wonderful memories to fill my days. There is unpacking to do but for now I just want to sit and sip my coffee, and sort through the grand moments. Must thank my hostess, Tess Kincaid, for the wonderful hospitality. And all the other attendees for wonderful inspiration. Find myself already planning for next year. Johnny had to get back to Monument Valley for some additional takes on The Lone Ranger. Our pilot dropped off him and early and they flew me over the monuments as the sun was just beginning to strike them. There had been a snow yesterday. The Angel Fire airport was a cold and desolate place. But it was only six miles from home and my fur kids. Hope all the other at...

Breakfast on Board My date, Johnny Depp, was late, but he did pick me up at the Angel Fire Airport. In the greatest of Leer Jets. I was all bundled up against the cold in my traveling outfit which included the Harlequin coat I will wear later to the ball. As soon as we took off and topped the mountains breakfast of Eggs Benedict was served. I thought I would be way too excited to eat a thing but I had skipped dinner doing last minute packing and was ravishingly hungry even sitting across from Johnny. He had brought along a couple of friends from the latest film he is working on. In fact the flight was late because of having to skirt the tails of Hurricane Sandy. He and his friends were all dressed as pirates. Does solve that worry about white Tonto makeup all over my gown. Cannot wait to see Willow Manor as this is the first of their famous balls I have been to. Going to have to be really grand to beat all the excitement of preparation and the fabulou...

The mask is the biggest accessory for the ball but of course I have to have shoes even if my long gown will cover most of them up. I find as I age it is more an more about support for my high aches and balance. I like these because they had a sort of vintage look while providing a lot of support for the ball and arch of my foot. Not going to slip slide out of these. But they are a bit tall. The ones below are more sporty and shorter and will be perfect for wearing with my black jeans and silk blouse when traveling. I have my big black Epiphany camera bag but I obviously will want an evening purse. I hate the ones I have to hold on to. I want my hands free for the buffet and dancing and taking pictures. I have the bag below that I take routinely to art openings and receptions. Which leaves jewelry. Jewelry with feathered masks is an issue I have found. You do not want a lot of prongs that will snag on the feathers. So I was looking for something with a smooth surface a...