Here is the front of the program for the event.
Since I moved to Ireland, I’ve written many blog posts about the American Women’s Club of Dublin. Most of the fabulous events I’ve attended have been with the club and it is through connections in the club that I’ve made my closest friends. In all reality, my experience in Dublin this past year wouldn’t have been as wonderful had I not found this club. As crazy as it is to believe, a year has come and gone, and we had our very last “large” event of the year on Friday: An Egyptian Evening Under the Stars.
Now, I’ve told you of our many philanthropic endeavors, from the cooking demo at Karen’s home, to my poker evening and chili cook-off. The Egyptian Evening Under the Stars was our last philanthropic gala, organized to yet again benefit the ISPCC. The Egyptian Ambassador to Ireland’s wife, Abir, happens to be a member of our club, so they gladly hosted us at their beautiful home. Who else can say that in one year they’ve attended events at the American Embassy and the Egyptian Ambassador’s home? The evening consisted of a silent auction with prizes like a full-length mink coat, a signed book and personal portrait sitting with the world famous photographer Barry McCall (he even attended the event!), opera tickets, hotel B&B stays, etc.; a raffle with even more prizes; singing entertainment; a belly-dancing performance; a buffet of traditional Egyptian food; and an open wine and beverage bar. The dress was cocktail attire and thankfully the weather held out with beautiful, sunny skies.
Doesn't he look so handsome? We had such a great time!
It really was a magical evening. Matt and I love any opportunity to dress up! I was finally given the chance to wear a dress that he bought me for Valentine’s Day when we were living apart. I’ve had it for over a year and never a reason to wear it! Matt stuck on his American flag pin, for which he received quite a few compliments – I mean, we are the American Women’s Club. With Matt’s help, I put together the program for the evening, which looked fantastic. The best part, most of our friends were there and we had a great time catching up and letting loose. After the event, a group of us even headed out to the Four Seasons bar for late night drinks.
All in all it was a beautiful night. I’m not sure yet how much we finally raised, but I’m sure it was a great success. I have to pay compliments to the club’s Philanthropic Chair, Karen, because she has tirelessly worked day and night for each event this year, and this evening was her greatest success. Did I mention that she works full-time? I don’t know how she does it. Needless to say, I’m a bit sad that the final event of the year has come to a close. I’ll miss these opportunities for all of the women to get together for a great cause!
With some great friends at the start of the evening.
Our entertainment for the evening! She brought up some victims later to teach them the dance - I stayed away!
World famous photographer Barry McCall! He gave such a generous donation of a personal portrait sitting with him. Too bad I didn't win it!
With the ladies. 
With Karen, the amazing philanthropic chair and a great friend of mine!
