Belle of the ball

can you spot Tom and I?

The night before Shambala Tom's parents invited us to a ball. Every year during the August bank holiday weekend the Edenbridge & Oxted Agricultural Show takes place. Much like an American fair, but without carnies dragging you into games impossible to win, and without rides. Over the weekend many animals, flowers, foods and craft are on display. Many shows or demonstrations takes place as well. When I went a couple of years ago, my favourite were the John Deer tractors that performed a dance routine of sorts. This eventful weekend begins Friday evening with a ball.

Around three o'clock on the afternoon of the ball Tom and I received our invite from his parents. Their friend had extra tickets/seats at their table. In the past I've mentioned to Tom that I have never been to a ball and would love to go, so it was an instant yes. Luckily Tom's sister Flo let me borrow a gorgeous floor length black gown that fit perfect, and Tom looked ever so dashing in his tux and bow tie. Just on our time our carriage (aka car) dropped us at the ball.

The event is held on the show grounds under a large marquee, with a wooden floor in the middle for dancing. It's a bit tricky wearing heels as they sink into the grass, but I managed like a princess. We were greeted with a glass of bubbly and soon led to our table. I was surprised by how many young people (many my age or younger) were at this event. I imagined it would be an older crowd as I hear of Tom's parents and their friends attending every year.

A delicious three course meal was served followed by coffee and a cheese board. I enjoyed getting to know the other people at our table and hearing of their careers. The conversation was made more interesting as the men rotated a few seats before dessert changing who chatted to who. One topic of the night was general consensus wishing the DJ would stop talking as he kept going on when everyone was trying to enjoy the meal and it was hard to talk over him.

Then came the dancing. I love dancing! We boogied away to the band, busting moves across the dance floor. I felt like I was at a wedding as it was that type of music.

The night ended early for us though as Tom was still recovering from tonsilitus. Luckily Flo came to pick Tom and I up when he started to tire. We made it home before midnight, meaning I didn't turn into a pumpkin.

Love