Hello all
This past weekend was very interesting and eventful.
I will start by saying that I felt like Schrodinger for most of the
week. I had simultaneously convinced myself that something would and
would not happen. At least at the end of it all I was right…
Anyway
I drove out early Wednesday morning to participate in the mermaid portion of Julia’s video. I was running a little behind, then got stuck behind the train, but managed to arrive in the nick of time.
It was a nice temperature. The sun was warm and the breeze kept it from
being too warm. However, the water was cold and the breeze certainly
did not help. We were all very cold. It was still fun
When I was taking my makeup off, I noticed that the top of my cheeks
were very pink. It was kinda cute until I removed all of my makeup and
realized I had little pale anti-scales :I
Afterwards, I was chilled and walked around in a cloak for the better part of the day.
I went to hang out with Cody for a while and we shot some arrows (I
kept popping my arm with the string, which led to a greenish bruise on
the inner part of my elbow. Somebody neglected to mention my form was
off after the first time it happened. *cough*cody*cough* ) before
deciding to go see Iron Man 3. It was very good. I have a tiny
complaint, but it does not diminish my enjoyment of the film over all.
I slept in on Thursday, which was bad because it made the day feel stupidly short.
That evening I watched “Army of Darkness” and “Willow”. I had forgotten how good Willow is.
Friday was another lazy day. I took care of a few things around the
mermaid hut, fiddled around with my computer, and relaxed in preparation
for the weekend.
Saturday morning was pleasant. I feel that my
makeup looked really good and I was especially happy with the scales on
the bridge of my nose. I also did Kelci’s makeup that morning.
We all finished very early, making everything fairly relaxing.
I was in the shell all weekend.
Children were so funny. Most of them were very excited and I heard a
lot of, “I knew mermaids were real!!!” this weekend. Also, I sang a lot
of songs from Les Mis on Saturday and people noticed. Most were mothers
mentioning it to their daughters. Such as, “isn’t that from that movie
you like?”
One young man very excitedly gushed, “*gasp* Les
Mis?!” I nodded. “Do You Hear the People Sing?!” I nod. “I love it! I am
kind of a theatre nerd.” A few minutes later, I switched to “A Heart
Full of Love” and glanced over at him to see him grinning and nodding
vigorously.
I did have my first negative interaction. Well,
negative for me, not for the patron. I was handing out shells and this
one kid asked for a big shell, then they all asked for big shells, so I
reached for my basket and the instigator child darted over, practically
trampling a fern, and started digging through my shells. When the parent
finally caught up she told them to stop and take whatever I was kind
enough to give them. Then they all insisted on hugs. Now, I am a huggy
person, but not when sticky little stranger children are involved.
Especially not ones that I am already annoyed at. Then annoying
instigator child “tickles” my tail, runs her hand across my leg while
telling me that she likes my scales (no biggie, people do it all the
time) but after that she TOUCHES MY FACE to express her love for my face
scales.
I really do not like people touching my face. Especially annoying instigator stranger children >:I
I was encouraged to hiss at children that pull that in the future.
A positive interaction came after the last show of the day. We were
recording some promotional video for the future and one of the camera
men asked if he could take pictures for his daughters and we ended up
recording a video of me telling them hello in mermish and holding up the
shells I then gave to him to give to them.
That evening was
beefy beany bacony thing at the Stonhenj camp. It is always yummy, but
it was especially delicious this time. I brought along the thumbprint
cookies and applecake I had baked. They seemed to be a hit
Alan had dinner with us and then invited me to the Scottish Cottage for
bad movie night. This time it was “Robogeisha”. Another silly Japanese
movie with an amusing dub. While the weapons themselves were hilarious
(machine gun breasts, throwing stars fired from the backside, and “the
AssSword”) I think the best part was when one of the bad guys brought
his sword up in a sweeping arc after trailing in on the ground in a
dramatic fashion. Alan freaked and shouted at the tv asking said
character why he was dragging the tip of his sword through the gravel.
It was hysterical.
Sunday was good as well. It was a little warm, but not bad.
I was given a pretty pink rose during the first set and after the owner
lady came through I popped in my fangs for the second and third sets.
It went over really well! I specifically did not scare the kids, but
when they would be facing away from me (especially when their parents
would say, “scoot closer, she won’t bite” I would creepily hover them,
fangs and all XD ) I am certainly not going for vampire mermaid, more “I
would drown you if it weren’t for being well fed by the crew” mermaid.
It was a great crowd. Everyone who walked through was very happy and
seemed excited about the experience. I mainly switched back and forth
between “Greensleaves” and “Scarborough Fair” though I almost
exclusively sang the mermaid song for the last hour and a half.
At the end of the day we closed early because we were so dead. I always
relax for a moment before de-tailing as opposed to the other girls who
quickly get out of costume. Well, that came in handy this time when we
had a group of children who had waited until the last moment to come see
the mermaids and were sad that they were going to miss out. Esperanza
came in asking for shells so they would not leave empty handed and then
Nathanial picked me up and ran me to the exit shouting, “Wait! She wants
to see you! Hurry, she is drying out!” So the kids got to see a mermaid
after all
Sunday night was leftovers at the Stonhenj camp followed by Blade as well as nerdy conversation.
I spent Monday morning wandering around Bizarre Bazaar with Mark, then
saw the World’s Largest Donkeys with Cody, after which I packed and
drove home.
It was a very nice weekend.
…
I
will admit I am a little terrified. In two weeks I will be unemployed
for the first time in almost five years. I am very unsure what I am
going to do with myself and that uncertainty frightens me.
On a
happier note: I know that my views on relationships (of all kinds,
though I am specifically talking friendship here) are different from a
lot of people. Especially people my own age. I would rather have very
few true friends than a plethora of "friends". I am also a very huggy
person (as previously mentioned. and huggy is totally a word) I like
expressing my affection with hugging and nearness and baked things.
*rambles*
What I am getting at is that I want to say again how happy I am and how
blessed I feel to be surrounded by people that seem to care for me very
much and who are looking out for me. I am glad to have met you all and
hope that these are lasting connections.
Now I am off to bake things.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Celtic Weekend
This weekend was probably the most delightful so far.
On Friday evening I watched Les Mis with Cody, as he had not seen the newest version yet, and sobbed at the end, as usual.
It was so so so cold that night. My feet were absolutely freezing. I finally warmed up around the time I needed to get out of bed :c
My makeup turned out the best it has ever been and the chilly morning warmed up fairly quickly. After the initial shock of the cold water, I was comfortable.
I was in the shell, then the coffin, followed by the shell again. I sang, played with my toroflux, and pantomimed wildly. People are really good and figuring out what I am trying to say, which is good, because I no longer have someone standing next to me at all times.
At one point, the wizard stopped by and brought us stone dolphin necklaces. It was a very sweet gesture and mine is moonstone (Moonstone is one of my two favorite semiprecious stones)
I also discovered that Scarby is doing something to my coordination. I use to be so graceful and surefooted. I mean, I was a skating carhop for years. I never dropped a tray, I only ran into two people (and that was at a blind corner both times), I use to run outside to skate in the rain with twirls and twists and never once fell. Then I got hired at the faire. I already shared falling out of my chair at the stonhenj camp in an earlier post, but now I have another story…
I was sitting on a bench with Oskar Hasselhoff when more people joined the group. He scooted over so that I could scoot over to make more room, but instead of scooting to the side, I scooted diagonally right off the bench. It was so embarrassing! Then I was laughing so hard my limbs were like jelly and I had to be picked up and put back on the bench.
The following evening was so wonderful. I started at the Stonhenj camp with Marcus and Tommie. Dinner was beef and vegetable stew (the news of which caused Jarrett to kiss Marcus on the mouth) and macaroni and cheese. As always, the company was delightful.
It cooled down rather quickly and I got a little cold. However, the always astute Marcus noticed I was getting chilly before I fully realized it, and put a cloak over my shoulders. Shortly afterwards, Alan joined us for stew and I had another cloak placed on top of me. I felt kind of guilty, because I was toasty warm while I feel others may not have been.
A little while later, Alan asked if I would like to accompany him to the junque to listen to Sick perform. It was so much fun! Sick is very talented and I enjoyed listening to him sing, play the guitar, and the violin/fiddle.
The best part was when Alan asked me to dance. I have always wanted to dance. Real dancing, not shimming in place or what not. I got to really dance with someone who knows how to dance. (which is good, because he made up for my complete lack of dancing skill)
It was so lovely.
Also, watching him dance to Stolichnaya was amazing.
Our next stop was the Scottish cottage where we caught the very end of “Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl”. It was so bad. So so bad. The dub didn’t match the subtitles, the plotline was convoluted, and the acting… *shudder*
Alan’s commentary really made the movie. Especially when he started shouting along with the song over the ending credits. I was laughing so hard that it hurt. (I am sure my corset was not helping) but I was almost in tears and I couldn’t breathe. It was the best.
Afterwards, he walked me back to my shed and wished me good night.
I actually slept really well and was very warm, despite the cold weather. (It was also nice to know that had I been too cold, that two different people offered me a place to stay)
The only downside? I fell asleep in my contacts.
They didn’t do anything to my eyes, but I was concerned. Well… almost nothing. When I was checking to make sure they were in the right place on my eyes, I noticed I had an eye booger /in the middle of my eye/ it was sooooo disgusting. (yes, I did need to share that with you)
Sunday felt colder than Saturday to me.
I was in the shell for all three shows. I have finally figured out how to sit in that thing so that it does not make me feel like cutting off my feet.
The day felt strangely long though.
I had a lot of talkative little kids this weekend, so my pantomime skills were put to the test. Though I successfully conveyed that I swim down in the water to collect the shells that I hand out to the children, that I made my own costume, in my home, in the ocean. I love singing, I don’t speak much, and I do know Ariel a little, but she is still a human and no longer in the ocean. (I was also asked where she is now, but the child answered her own question when she said, “oh, right. She lives in Disneyland.”)
We were also gifted with a fruit platter. It was really yummy.
And how could I forget the unicorns. We had two men come through in unicorn costumes and take pictures with us. It was hysterical.
At the end of the day I had dinner with Marcus and Tommie again, before heading off to listen to Cantiga play. Their music is so beautiful and soothing. Then I watched “The Devil’s Carnival” with Cody.
I remembered to take out my contacts before going to bed and slept ridiculously late. After I finally dragged myself out of bed, I reorganized my food cooler, packed my belongings, and drove home.
I have been immensely blessed to meet these people that have been so kind and warm and welcoming to me. I want to say again that I greatly appreciate Marcus for keeping an eye on the lagoon and always watching out for me. All of Stonhenj has been very good to me. I am glad to be breaking out of my shell a little bit and making new friends. Thank you Alan for dancing with me; it was initially out of my comfort zone, as I was afraid to make a fool of myself (or of stepping on your feet) but it was really wonderful and I doubt I’ll ever forget it. Then last, but not least, thank you Cody for riding with me to Walmart so that I didn’t get lost, and for watching (and commenting on) movies with me.
As always, I am looking forward to what next weekend has in store
On Friday evening I watched Les Mis with Cody, as he had not seen the newest version yet, and sobbed at the end, as usual.
It was so so so cold that night. My feet were absolutely freezing. I finally warmed up around the time I needed to get out of bed :c
My makeup turned out the best it has ever been and the chilly morning warmed up fairly quickly. After the initial shock of the cold water, I was comfortable.
I was in the shell, then the coffin, followed by the shell again. I sang, played with my toroflux, and pantomimed wildly. People are really good and figuring out what I am trying to say, which is good, because I no longer have someone standing next to me at all times.
At one point, the wizard stopped by and brought us stone dolphin necklaces. It was a very sweet gesture and mine is moonstone (Moonstone is one of my two favorite semiprecious stones)
I also discovered that Scarby is doing something to my coordination. I use to be so graceful and surefooted. I mean, I was a skating carhop for years. I never dropped a tray, I only ran into two people (and that was at a blind corner both times), I use to run outside to skate in the rain with twirls and twists and never once fell. Then I got hired at the faire. I already shared falling out of my chair at the stonhenj camp in an earlier post, but now I have another story…
I was sitting on a bench with Oskar Hasselhoff when more people joined the group. He scooted over so that I could scoot over to make more room, but instead of scooting to the side, I scooted diagonally right off the bench. It was so embarrassing! Then I was laughing so hard my limbs were like jelly and I had to be picked up and put back on the bench.
The following evening was so wonderful. I started at the Stonhenj camp with Marcus and Tommie. Dinner was beef and vegetable stew (the news of which caused Jarrett to kiss Marcus on the mouth) and macaroni and cheese. As always, the company was delightful.
It cooled down rather quickly and I got a little cold. However, the always astute Marcus noticed I was getting chilly before I fully realized it, and put a cloak over my shoulders. Shortly afterwards, Alan joined us for stew and I had another cloak placed on top of me. I felt kind of guilty, because I was toasty warm while I feel others may not have been.
A little while later, Alan asked if I would like to accompany him to the junque to listen to Sick perform. It was so much fun! Sick is very talented and I enjoyed listening to him sing, play the guitar, and the violin/fiddle.
The best part was when Alan asked me to dance. I have always wanted to dance. Real dancing, not shimming in place or what not. I got to really dance with someone who knows how to dance. (which is good, because he made up for my complete lack of dancing skill)
It was so lovely.
Also, watching him dance to Stolichnaya was amazing.
Our next stop was the Scottish cottage where we caught the very end of “Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl”. It was so bad. So so bad. The dub didn’t match the subtitles, the plotline was convoluted, and the acting… *shudder*
Alan’s commentary really made the movie. Especially when he started shouting along with the song over the ending credits. I was laughing so hard that it hurt. (I am sure my corset was not helping) but I was almost in tears and I couldn’t breathe. It was the best.
Afterwards, he walked me back to my shed and wished me good night.
I actually slept really well and was very warm, despite the cold weather. (It was also nice to know that had I been too cold, that two different people offered me a place to stay)
The only downside? I fell asleep in my contacts.
They didn’t do anything to my eyes, but I was concerned. Well… almost nothing. When I was checking to make sure they were in the right place on my eyes, I noticed I had an eye booger /in the middle of my eye/ it was sooooo disgusting. (yes, I did need to share that with you)
Sunday felt colder than Saturday to me.
I was in the shell for all three shows. I have finally figured out how to sit in that thing so that it does not make me feel like cutting off my feet.
The day felt strangely long though.
I had a lot of talkative little kids this weekend, so my pantomime skills were put to the test. Though I successfully conveyed that I swim down in the water to collect the shells that I hand out to the children, that I made my own costume, in my home, in the ocean. I love singing, I don’t speak much, and I do know Ariel a little, but she is still a human and no longer in the ocean. (I was also asked where she is now, but the child answered her own question when she said, “oh, right. She lives in Disneyland.”)
We were also gifted with a fruit platter. It was really yummy.
And how could I forget the unicorns. We had two men come through in unicorn costumes and take pictures with us. It was hysterical.
At the end of the day I had dinner with Marcus and Tommie again, before heading off to listen to Cantiga play. Their music is so beautiful and soothing. Then I watched “The Devil’s Carnival” with Cody.
I remembered to take out my contacts before going to bed and slept ridiculously late. After I finally dragged myself out of bed, I reorganized my food cooler, packed my belongings, and drove home.
I have been immensely blessed to meet these people that have been so kind and warm and welcoming to me. I want to say again that I greatly appreciate Marcus for keeping an eye on the lagoon and always watching out for me. All of Stonhenj has been very good to me. I am glad to be breaking out of my shell a little bit and making new friends. Thank you Alan for dancing with me; it was initially out of my comfort zone, as I was afraid to make a fool of myself (or of stepping on your feet) but it was really wonderful and I doubt I’ll ever forget it. Then last, but not least, thank you Cody for riding with me to Walmart so that I didn’t get lost, and for watching (and commenting on) movies with me.
As always, I am looking forward to what next weekend has in store
Royal Ale Festival
I
left for the faire midday Friday. I was a little concerned that it might
rain, not that I don’t love rain, but my truck freaks out if it is even
damp. Fortunately, it didn’t and I made it to my little shed/home safe
and sound.
The evening was fairly uneventful until one of the other mermaids stopped by and brought a friend. We hung out and talked and skimmed through my “funny pictures” folder on my computer. After a little while, another one of their friends joined us. Jeneva (mermaid) had a curfew, so she and Nemer (friend one) left. Dakoda (friend two) decided to stay and talk. That was fine, except it got really late and then he very suddenly fell asleep /on my bed/.
I couldn’t bring myself to wake him up, so I ended up not sleeping that night. It isn’t that I thought he was going to try anything; I just couldn’t get my brain to shut off with someone I don’t know well in the room. There were a few times when I was not really awake, but I was not asleep either. It was not restful at all.
Finally, at about 6:30 a.m. I jiggled to bed enough that he woke up and got him to leave. I ended up sleeping for a solid hour and a half before I was woken up by the security lady and just stayed up after that.
(I was told by multiple people afterwards that if I am “too nice” or timid to ask someone to leave my house, to give them a call and they would do anything ranging from telling them to leave to actively throwing them out. Also, these are intimidating people that could follow through, so that gives me great piece of mind ^^ )
While getting ready that morning, I did the best makeup I have done so far. It was blended really well and was pretty even.
It was a nice morning. Not quite as cold as they had been the previous weekends.
We also got a new pond! It is quite small and is the farthest removed from people, but it makes for a great picture.
I was in the coffin for the first go and was chattier than I have ever been. It is fun. I was having trouble with straight gibberish, so I looked in a elven phrase book for some inspiration and now I speak a blend of mermish and elf.
I also saw an old classmate from college. He did not recognize me until I said his name (which is funny, because we had a lot of classes together) Anyway, it was nice to see him doing well (and being nice to me. He had gotten snippy and unkind before I stopped talking to him)
During the break I walked with Jeneva to the backstage of the “mini keep” (?) I believe she called it and I had a delicious fajita. I caught the very tail end of the rapier/dagger lesson and then ran back to the tent.
For the second time slot I was in the shell. Nathaniel (the first mate) was very nice and held my parasol for me when the sun was peaking between the trees for 30 minutes or so. We had a lot of really excitable adults this time around and I had one woman tell me that I photographed “exquisitely”. I thought that was very kind of her to say, though I cannot say I agree with her all the time
The second break was mostly spent wandering, though I did make a stop by the toy booth to buy a toroflux. It was a great purchase. It is fun for me and children as well as adults love watching it.
I was in the shell again for the last show. I was mobbed by a large group a Brownie and Junior age Girl Scouts as I was handing out shells. There was also another great interaction involving Nathaniel and a patron. The patron commented on my “bracelet” (the toroflux) and Nathaniel said how great it was and that he had not heard a peep out if me since I got it. The patron then “peeped” and I peeped back. Nathaniel glared at me and the patron burst out laughing.
That evening I had dinner with the Stonhenj group and it was so very yummy. I also got to talk to Allie (sp) for the first time since I picked mermaiding over being a lane performer.
That night reminded me how fortunate I am to be surrounded by such kind, loving, amazing people. Especially after Sir Marcus insisted that he walk me back to my home
I slept very well that night.
(Also, we had been told by one of the owners that the lagoon has a 95% approval rating !!!)
The next morning I woke up about an hour before the other girls were supposed to arrive. I went ahead and opened the door, then crawled back into bed. I was woken up by two of the girls crawling into bed with me “because it was cold” :c
Anyway, I was finished with my costume and makeup early, so I helped Kelci with hers, then she and I went to the morning meeting.
Afterwards, we headed back to the shed, finished prepping, and all met up at the tent.
For the first set of the day, I was in the shell. I tried standing on the “meat” of the oyster to attempt to get better footing and a more comfortable “tail putting on” position, but that did not turn out well when the person helping me into my costume tugged when I was not paying attention and I fell.
Apparently, being in the lagoon and hearing a *splash/thud* is really disconcerting. Everyone freaked out a little, but my only concern was that I may have broken my rings. (oh the joy of stone rings) For the record, I was told that I fall well. (something I have heard before, and it makes me oddly happy. Perhaps it will keep me from being injured in the future)
The gate opens, people start funneling towards me, and kids have the funniest things to say.
One group of little girls round the bend and shouted, “Look! She must be the queen mermaid! SHE IS SO BEAUTIFUL!!!”
(with as naively cruel and brutally honest as kids can be, you know when they gush about your appearance, they are telling the truth)
Another little girl provided one of the most adorable and magical moments I have been blessed to witness.
She walked up to me and softly said, “My sister told me that mermaids were not real. *pause* But I knew you were.”
(right in the feels)
I nearly squealed out loud and when I gave her a shell her eyes just lit up
The same little girl came back later with the aforementioned sister to show her the real mermaids.
I walked around with my sister on my break and introduced her to Oskar Hasselhoff. We got pictures and he told us stories and it was really nice.
I was in the shell for the second time slot.
It was a busy day, but good busy, not overwhelming busy.
Another group of children came through and I heard a little boy exclaim, “Okay, now /this one/ is the prettiest!” (I know that different people favor different mermaids, and I am certain the other girls get comments like this as well, but it is always nice to hear)
On a previous day, I had been introduced to a scribe and found that he made messages in bottles that look amazing for a good price. (which I do believe I mentioned before) Anyway, he came through the lagoon because he had hit upon an idea that he just had to make, and gave me a bottled message that says, “Don’t save me. Leave me with the mermaids.”
I also heard a lady comment to her companion, after taking a picture of me, that I look very “Victorian”.
On the second break I walked around with my sister again. We passed by the leprechaun and he called out to me and said I reminded him of someone, “Someone more wet”. (It is so strange, other performers recognize me like that *finger snap* even though my garb colors are so far removed from my mermaid colors.)
The third set was slow, as usual.
The 30 minutes we have to walk around before cannon was amusing and eventful. I ran in to Oskar and he told me about a great Harry Potter shirt he saw that said, “Yo’ momma is so fat, her patronus is a cake.”
Unfortunately, since we were all off getting our “thank you notes” we were not at the tent to prevent the tails from being taken to the shed before they were washed. It was a little tense and stressful, but we figured it out and cleaned them before Jen and I went to dinner with Jeneva and her family. The conversation and company was great.
We went to Chili’s. It was delicious.
Jen and I returned to the faire and I decided to stay another night. My plan was to sleep in and then wander around bizarre bazaar.
5:20 a.m. rolls around and I receive a phone call from Jen asking if I could please do her a favor and drive her to the airport.
I could not say no. I could not be the person that kept her from seeing her family. So I drove her to DFW.
I figured getting back would not be so bad, and even when I got a little lost, I knew generally where I was and I believed I would figure it out.
Then I realized that I was very, very lost and texted Rex in the hope that she could guide me back. She did, and I went to bizarre bazaar with Kelci. I was wearing my red mustache shirt and I got some compliments on it That was also when Kelci introduced me to Cody, a new acquaintance of hers.
The three of us went down to the falls, but Kelci had to split off, so she and I met up later to go swimming in our tails. (on the way to the falls, we stumbled upon a beautiful dog. It is chocolate colored and looks husky like, thought I am not sure if it is one. The intriguing thing about this particular dog, besides the fact that it is very beautiful and sweet, is that it is blind. It has no eyes. At all. But whenever you walk up, it looks directly at your face. It's ears and nose must be boosted by the lack of eyes. We also saw a snake swimming down the river and sliding over the falls. I also heard that if you are irritated at someone, plant a tree for Jesus. No one looks under a tree. >:3 ) Good times. Then the swimming. It was pretty awful, because (after the fact) we realized that the drain in my tail was over sealed turning my tail into a bucket of water dragging me to the depths. It was very difficult to keep my head above water. It was also very cold. Then I lost one of my stone rings :c I am extremely bummed that I lost it. It was strangely fun though, and I wouldn’t go back and change things, even if I could.
Tuesday, I slept in until Kelci got there and we went to lunch. I got some very good lasagna and the garlic bread at that place is fantastic. I believe it was “The Tuscan Slice”. (though I could be mistaken)
She and I returned to the faire and hung out at the falls for a while before she had to return to town for errands.
I spent the rest of the evening nerding out with my new friend Cody. (nerding is totally a word, I don’t care what my autocorrect says)
I ended up staying one more night, fully intending to pack of and leave early-ish Wednesday.
Well, I ended up lounging around for a while, and right before I was about to leave, Mel (the amazing security lady) stopped by and asked if I wanted to go to lunch with her. It was delicious.
We hung out for quite a while, and I rode with her when she took care of some stuff/people. It was an enjoyable visit.
Afterwards I stopped by the shop where Cody works/lives to pick up something he picked up for me when he went to Walmart and ended up sticking around for a while and going to get food with him.
Upon our return, we looked over most of the swords in the shop (most of which I knew how to hold properly) and found one that would look great with my garb (but that I shouldn’t get because I am broke and I don’t /need/ it)
Even though it was getting late, I made myself drive home because I wanted to see my family, I needed to replenish my food stores, and I refused to be “The French mermaid”.
Even though I stayed much longer than I had planned, it was a great week and I am excited to drive out again!
The evening was fairly uneventful until one of the other mermaids stopped by and brought a friend. We hung out and talked and skimmed through my “funny pictures” folder on my computer. After a little while, another one of their friends joined us. Jeneva (mermaid) had a curfew, so she and Nemer (friend one) left. Dakoda (friend two) decided to stay and talk. That was fine, except it got really late and then he very suddenly fell asleep /on my bed/.
I couldn’t bring myself to wake him up, so I ended up not sleeping that night. It isn’t that I thought he was going to try anything; I just couldn’t get my brain to shut off with someone I don’t know well in the room. There were a few times when I was not really awake, but I was not asleep either. It was not restful at all.
Finally, at about 6:30 a.m. I jiggled to bed enough that he woke up and got him to leave. I ended up sleeping for a solid hour and a half before I was woken up by the security lady and just stayed up after that.
(I was told by multiple people afterwards that if I am “too nice” or timid to ask someone to leave my house, to give them a call and they would do anything ranging from telling them to leave to actively throwing them out. Also, these are intimidating people that could follow through, so that gives me great piece of mind ^^ )
While getting ready that morning, I did the best makeup I have done so far. It was blended really well and was pretty even.
It was a nice morning. Not quite as cold as they had been the previous weekends.
We also got a new pond! It is quite small and is the farthest removed from people, but it makes for a great picture.
I was in the coffin for the first go and was chattier than I have ever been. It is fun. I was having trouble with straight gibberish, so I looked in a elven phrase book for some inspiration and now I speak a blend of mermish and elf.
I also saw an old classmate from college. He did not recognize me until I said his name (which is funny, because we had a lot of classes together) Anyway, it was nice to see him doing well (and being nice to me. He had gotten snippy and unkind before I stopped talking to him)
During the break I walked with Jeneva to the backstage of the “mini keep” (?) I believe she called it and I had a delicious fajita. I caught the very tail end of the rapier/dagger lesson and then ran back to the tent.
For the second time slot I was in the shell. Nathaniel (the first mate) was very nice and held my parasol for me when the sun was peaking between the trees for 30 minutes or so. We had a lot of really excitable adults this time around and I had one woman tell me that I photographed “exquisitely”. I thought that was very kind of her to say, though I cannot say I agree with her all the time
The second break was mostly spent wandering, though I did make a stop by the toy booth to buy a toroflux. It was a great purchase. It is fun for me and children as well as adults love watching it.
I was in the shell again for the last show. I was mobbed by a large group a Brownie and Junior age Girl Scouts as I was handing out shells. There was also another great interaction involving Nathaniel and a patron. The patron commented on my “bracelet” (the toroflux) and Nathaniel said how great it was and that he had not heard a peep out if me since I got it. The patron then “peeped” and I peeped back. Nathaniel glared at me and the patron burst out laughing.
That evening I had dinner with the Stonhenj group and it was so very yummy. I also got to talk to Allie (sp) for the first time since I picked mermaiding over being a lane performer.
That night reminded me how fortunate I am to be surrounded by such kind, loving, amazing people. Especially after Sir Marcus insisted that he walk me back to my home
I slept very well that night.
(Also, we had been told by one of the owners that the lagoon has a 95% approval rating !!!)
The next morning I woke up about an hour before the other girls were supposed to arrive. I went ahead and opened the door, then crawled back into bed. I was woken up by two of the girls crawling into bed with me “because it was cold” :c
Anyway, I was finished with my costume and makeup early, so I helped Kelci with hers, then she and I went to the morning meeting.
Afterwards, we headed back to the shed, finished prepping, and all met up at the tent.
For the first set of the day, I was in the shell. I tried standing on the “meat” of the oyster to attempt to get better footing and a more comfortable “tail putting on” position, but that did not turn out well when the person helping me into my costume tugged when I was not paying attention and I fell.
Apparently, being in the lagoon and hearing a *splash/thud* is really disconcerting. Everyone freaked out a little, but my only concern was that I may have broken my rings. (oh the joy of stone rings) For the record, I was told that I fall well. (something I have heard before, and it makes me oddly happy. Perhaps it will keep me from being injured in the future)
The gate opens, people start funneling towards me, and kids have the funniest things to say.
One group of little girls round the bend and shouted, “Look! She must be the queen mermaid! SHE IS SO BEAUTIFUL!!!”
(with as naively cruel and brutally honest as kids can be, you know when they gush about your appearance, they are telling the truth)
Another little girl provided one of the most adorable and magical moments I have been blessed to witness.
She walked up to me and softly said, “My sister told me that mermaids were not real. *pause* But I knew you were.”
(right in the feels)
I nearly squealed out loud and when I gave her a shell her eyes just lit up
The same little girl came back later with the aforementioned sister to show her the real mermaids.
I walked around with my sister on my break and introduced her to Oskar Hasselhoff. We got pictures and he told us stories and it was really nice.
I was in the shell for the second time slot.
It was a busy day, but good busy, not overwhelming busy.
Another group of children came through and I heard a little boy exclaim, “Okay, now /this one/ is the prettiest!” (I know that different people favor different mermaids, and I am certain the other girls get comments like this as well, but it is always nice to hear)
On a previous day, I had been introduced to a scribe and found that he made messages in bottles that look amazing for a good price. (which I do believe I mentioned before) Anyway, he came through the lagoon because he had hit upon an idea that he just had to make, and gave me a bottled message that says, “Don’t save me. Leave me with the mermaids.”
I also heard a lady comment to her companion, after taking a picture of me, that I look very “Victorian”.
On the second break I walked around with my sister again. We passed by the leprechaun and he called out to me and said I reminded him of someone, “Someone more wet”. (It is so strange, other performers recognize me like that *finger snap* even though my garb colors are so far removed from my mermaid colors.)
The third set was slow, as usual.
The 30 minutes we have to walk around before cannon was amusing and eventful. I ran in to Oskar and he told me about a great Harry Potter shirt he saw that said, “Yo’ momma is so fat, her patronus is a cake.”
Unfortunately, since we were all off getting our “thank you notes” we were not at the tent to prevent the tails from being taken to the shed before they were washed. It was a little tense and stressful, but we figured it out and cleaned them before Jen and I went to dinner with Jeneva and her family. The conversation and company was great.
We went to Chili’s. It was delicious.
Jen and I returned to the faire and I decided to stay another night. My plan was to sleep in and then wander around bizarre bazaar.
5:20 a.m. rolls around and I receive a phone call from Jen asking if I could please do her a favor and drive her to the airport.
I could not say no. I could not be the person that kept her from seeing her family. So I drove her to DFW.
I figured getting back would not be so bad, and even when I got a little lost, I knew generally where I was and I believed I would figure it out.
Then I realized that I was very, very lost and texted Rex in the hope that she could guide me back. She did, and I went to bizarre bazaar with Kelci. I was wearing my red mustache shirt and I got some compliments on it That was also when Kelci introduced me to Cody, a new acquaintance of hers.
The three of us went down to the falls, but Kelci had to split off, so she and I met up later to go swimming in our tails. (on the way to the falls, we stumbled upon a beautiful dog. It is chocolate colored and looks husky like, thought I am not sure if it is one. The intriguing thing about this particular dog, besides the fact that it is very beautiful and sweet, is that it is blind. It has no eyes. At all. But whenever you walk up, it looks directly at your face. It's ears and nose must be boosted by the lack of eyes. We also saw a snake swimming down the river and sliding over the falls. I also heard that if you are irritated at someone, plant a tree for Jesus. No one looks under a tree. >:3 ) Good times. Then the swimming. It was pretty awful, because (after the fact) we realized that the drain in my tail was over sealed turning my tail into a bucket of water dragging me to the depths. It was very difficult to keep my head above water. It was also very cold. Then I lost one of my stone rings :c I am extremely bummed that I lost it. It was strangely fun though, and I wouldn’t go back and change things, even if I could.
Tuesday, I slept in until Kelci got there and we went to lunch. I got some very good lasagna and the garlic bread at that place is fantastic. I believe it was “The Tuscan Slice”. (though I could be mistaken)
She and I returned to the faire and hung out at the falls for a while before she had to return to town for errands.
I spent the rest of the evening nerding out with my new friend Cody. (nerding is totally a word, I don’t care what my autocorrect says)
I ended up staying one more night, fully intending to pack of and leave early-ish Wednesday.
Well, I ended up lounging around for a while, and right before I was about to leave, Mel (the amazing security lady) stopped by and asked if I wanted to go to lunch with her. It was delicious.
We hung out for quite a while, and I rode with her when she took care of some stuff/people. It was an enjoyable visit.
Afterwards I stopped by the shop where Cody works/lives to pick up something he picked up for me when he went to Walmart and ended up sticking around for a while and going to get food with him.
Upon our return, we looked over most of the swords in the shop (most of which I knew how to hold properly) and found one that would look great with my garb (but that I shouldn’t get because I am broke and I don’t /need/ it)
Even though it was getting late, I made myself drive home because I wanted to see my family, I needed to replenish my food stores, and I refused to be “The French mermaid”.
Even though I stayed much longer than I had planned, it was a great week and I am excited to drive out again!
Monday, April 22, 2013
Highland Fling Weekend
I got the faire a bit later than I had planned, because I
was waiting on the UPS guy to arrive with the mask I bought to cover my scales
so that I could walk around without being immediately pegged as a mermaid.
He showed up around four, which put me at the faire a little
before six.
I unpacked my belongings, read for a while, and turned in
early.
It was chilly (shocking) but not bad.
I was in the shell for our first performance, singing songs
and giving shells to excited little children.
I watched the adult school of sword (half of it, as usual)
on my break before returning to the lagoon. (When the Scottish queen walked by,
Oskar encouraged the men in the crowd to follow up his “hip hip” with “hubba
hubba”. It worked and she looked so surprised XD)
I was in the shell for the second show as well, still
singing and posing and joking with patrons, as much as one can with a severe
language barrier. (mostly non-speaking, a touch of “mermish” and very very
broken English).
We were also all gifted with beautiful roses with
encouraging notes from the amazing Mel. She is so good to us. (best security
lady ever. Ever.)
Also, I do not know when I picked this up, but after people
take pictures of me, or children give me little gifts, or what have you, I
wiggle like an excited puppy.
For the second break I stayed in the tent and munched on a
sandwich, before returning to the shell for the third and final set of the day.
Afterwards, I had a little time to wander before cannon, so
I left the tent and saw Oskar Hasselhoff across the way. I was too shy to go
say hello, so I dragged one of the crew over with me so I could talk to him.
I’ll admit I was more than pleasantly surprised when he not
only recognized me under layers of garb, cloak, and mask, but that he also
remembered my name.
(note to self: work on remembering patron’s names, because I
know how special it makes me feel when others remember me)
He introduced me to others that came up to speak to him and
I got to (re)meet Thomas Wood, the pyro juggler.
We all spoke for a little while, and when Oskar hugged me,
he lifted me into the air and said, “I’ve been reading a book on how to pick up
women. How am I doing?” It was so funny! :D
After making sure the tails were securely locked up in my
hut, I took Sir Marcus up on his invitation and went to the Stonhenj camp for
dinner. It was so delicious. Chicken a la king and good company :)
For example, I used the phrase “you bet your sweet bippy”
and was accused of being crazy and making up words. So I got the attention of
the rest of the group and asked them to raise their hands if they were familiar
with that term. There were a half a dozen hands in the air when I was done
speaking (in a group of ten or so) Then we discussed where it came from and old
tv shows.
Another example:
I had taken off my shoes and tucked my feet up underneath me
in the seat. Later on, one of the mermaid crew got up to leave and was teasing
me. When I went to poke him I ended up tumbling out of my seat onto the floor. Of
course, the conversation immediately died as all eyes shot towards me and I was
inevitably asked, “Had one too many?” and as I had not had anything to drink at
all, I had no excuse except to try and explain that I was trying to poke
someone and overreached.
But in all seriousness, Marcus and Stonhenj in general are
so wonderful and I really appreciate the moral support they provide. (and the
food. Food will win me over 9 times out of 10. Food cooked with love, that is.)
I slept well that night.
Day 2 started out with me in “the coffin”. It was the first
day I brought a parasol out with me. It may not be the best in the small pool,
though I may change my tune when it warms up to more typical Texas
temperatures.
We saw the 10th doctor and the doctor’s wife
(human Tardis). They looked great. He looked as close as a man can get to 10
without being David Tennant.
We also have a patron that is a very unique old man. Every
time he comes through he has a different, very bright and intricate costume.
When the wizard came through on Sunday, he gifted us each with very pretty
moonstones and told us that if we charge them in the moonlight overnight, they
would allow us to walk on land for one day. I should keep it safe and save it
for a special occasion :P (I have one in mind XD )
I jest.
Anyway, on this break I took my food with me to the adult
school of sword. The more I watch it, it more I come to realize I do not
believe I have ever seen options one or five on the sword rack, and I only
vaguely remember option two. I guess I’ll just have to cheer really loudly for
them next time I go to watch.
For the second set, I was in the shell.
At the entrance, one of the things the children are told it
that the same way they have not seen mermaids, we have not seen children, so we
are excited to see them and they should entertain /us/.
I actually had a little girl ask if I wanted her and her
sister to entertain me, so I enthusiastically nodded and watched while the
older sister sang and the younger one danced for me. It was so adorable.
One of my friends showed up during the set and I had her
stick around until there was a break in the crowd so that I could make plans to
walk with her during my second break.
We stopped by a shop that does writing and scrolls, and the
man we spoke to had a message in a bottle on his necklace. He sells them for a
good price, and I think one would look nice with my mermaid garb, so as soon as
I decide what I want it to say, I believe I will return to the shop and
purchase one.
I found myself back in the coffin for the third set. (I
guess they named it that because it is small and restrictive?) Anyway, it was
fun because I had one little boy who seemed very reluctant to sit on the rock
beside me, but when asked if he was afraid, he defiantly sat down. While he
wasn’t looking I scooted over right next to him, and after the picture was
taken, he turned and saw me and jumped back. It was hilarious. (I know, I am so
terrible)
We also had a very talented photographer come through with
his adorable child.
At the end of the day, we ran around a little before we had
to come back and clean off the tails. I was walking with one of the other girls
and right after I told her not to be offended if I randomly split off if I saw
someone else I wanted to catch up with, I heard my name and saw Oskar waving me
over.
I got a hug and this time he introduced me as his favorite
mermaid stalker XD (Oskar gives the 2nd best hugs)
Thomas Wood was there too, and when he greeted me with a
hug, instead of letting go, he stared massaging my back. I informed him that at
this rate I wasn’t going to stop hugging him, and he said that was fine. Then
Oskar began to regale me with stories on how amazing Thomas is at massaging. I
ended up getting a hand massage, then wrist, elbow, and shoulder massages. I am
just sad that he is not going to be there the rest of the season XD
I didn’t get to experience the highland games, but I suppose
it is for the best. I would probably get squished if I so much as thought about
picking up a caber, let alone actually attempted to pick one up.
I had dinner with Stonhenj again and kept them from having
to take home leftovers ^^ I was more than happy to help with that.
Then I stayed the night, slept in a little, and went to bizarre
bazaar with Rex. I specifically did not bring money with me so that I would not
be able to make impulse purchases. It was strange to see certain people walking
around in regular clothes.
(also, my rings are
giving me tan lines on my fingers! It amuses me)
Over all, another great weekend and I am looking forward to
the next.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Legends of the Sea
The second weekend at SRF went very well.
I arrived mid-day on Friday to move into my new lodgings.
It is a shed-type building that the mermaids use to store the tails and get ready in the morning (makeup, costumes, etc.) It is nice and cool at night :) A corner of it is mine, where my bedding and belongings stay, and the rest of it is mirrors and makeup.
I figured out what to do about a “cover up” for walking around on our breaks without being seen. I am using my usual garb along with my cloak. I purchased a venetian mask to hide my “scales” and I am anxiously awaiting its arrival along with a hooded capelet (for when it is too warm to wear my full cloak).
It was a little cool Saturday morning, but we made good time and once we were in our tails it was pretty comfortable.
I started out in the shell and took what I learned last week to improve my performance. I am figuring out what not to do with my face when a camera is pointed at me, and the best way to entertain a stream of patrons when they are going by too quickly to talk to, even if you could speak English.
Also, a group of little girls asked me if I was the princess of all the mermaids and I may have encouraged them by nodding :D
I got to see my sister and brother-in-law, who had come to see me, and met one of her co-workers.
After the first set, I met up with them and took them to see Oskar Hasselhoff. It was great. The first weapon he demonstrated was the grosse messer. (sp?) and he picked my brother-in-law to spar against!
Unfortunately, I had to cut out and run back to the lagoon to get ready for the next set before the second weapon was demonstrated.
For the second set I was in the small pool, which has been dubbed “the coffin” by the other mermaids (not really sure why)
We had two Doctors come through. Specifically the 4th doctor (scarf) who scanned my fellow mermaids with his sonic screwdriver, and the 5th doctor (celery) with real celery pinned to his lapel :D (oops! I think my geek is showing >.>)
On our second break I went with two other mermaids to watch Cast in Bronze. On the way, we were stopped buy a photographer who has taken many pictures of us in the lagoon, but did not recognize us and wanted pictures of the three of us in our mysterious, hoodedness.
For the third set, I was in the small pool again.
We were invited to Marcus’ camp for dinner and indulged in beefy beany bacony thingy. It was very good.
Sunday had a less chilly start, thanks to the extra sleeping bag Marcus loaned me (thank you again!)
I was in the shell first again and found the best way for me (personally) to interact with the patrons walking past.
So I sing :D
Well… not really singing, nor humming. It is more like… vocalizing at people.
Usually whatever song is stuck in my head at the moment. Though I do take requests from the crew :)
No one seemed to recognize the tunes from musicals, or the Christmas carols that our captain suggested, but “drunken sailor” was noticed, as was “the imperial march”.
During the first break, I found a snail in the dressing tent! It wasn’t the kind I am use to, with the long white shells. It was brown with a typical “snail shell”. It was exciting. (I know, I am so strange)
For the second set I was in the large pool.
One of the flower sellers made her way through and gave each of us the most beautiful gladiolus, or "sword lily" (my second favorite flower) We wondered who had sent them for a while until we discovered it was our captain who bought them for his four favorite mermaids :)
I wandered over to watch English wrestling with the first mate and saw Lavanya win her fight. It is nice to see people I was in auditions with happy and doing so well.
During the third set I was singing (vocalizing) “My Johnny was a Shoemaker” and a patron asked, “wait, is that you?” (I don’t know if she thought it was a background soundtrack, another mermaid, or what) and when I nodded she told me that it was beautiful.
While it got a little chilly towards the end, it was a very good day.
The drive home was nice and the night sky was so clear and beautiful. The stars were stunning and I am looking forward to next weekend.
I arrived mid-day on Friday to move into my new lodgings.
It is a shed-type building that the mermaids use to store the tails and get ready in the morning (makeup, costumes, etc.) It is nice and cool at night :) A corner of it is mine, where my bedding and belongings stay, and the rest of it is mirrors and makeup.
I figured out what to do about a “cover up” for walking around on our breaks without being seen. I am using my usual garb along with my cloak. I purchased a venetian mask to hide my “scales” and I am anxiously awaiting its arrival along with a hooded capelet (for when it is too warm to wear my full cloak).
It was a little cool Saturday morning, but we made good time and once we were in our tails it was pretty comfortable.
I started out in the shell and took what I learned last week to improve my performance. I am figuring out what not to do with my face when a camera is pointed at me, and the best way to entertain a stream of patrons when they are going by too quickly to talk to, even if you could speak English.
Also, a group of little girls asked me if I was the princess of all the mermaids and I may have encouraged them by nodding :D
I got to see my sister and brother-in-law, who had come to see me, and met one of her co-workers.
After the first set, I met up with them and took them to see Oskar Hasselhoff. It was great. The first weapon he demonstrated was the grosse messer. (sp?) and he picked my brother-in-law to spar against!
Unfortunately, I had to cut out and run back to the lagoon to get ready for the next set before the second weapon was demonstrated.
For the second set I was in the small pool, which has been dubbed “the coffin” by the other mermaids (not really sure why)
We had two Doctors come through. Specifically the 4th doctor (scarf) who scanned my fellow mermaids with his sonic screwdriver, and the 5th doctor (celery) with real celery pinned to his lapel :D (oops! I think my geek is showing >.>)
On our second break I went with two other mermaids to watch Cast in Bronze. On the way, we were stopped buy a photographer who has taken many pictures of us in the lagoon, but did not recognize us and wanted pictures of the three of us in our mysterious, hoodedness.
For the third set, I was in the small pool again.
We were invited to Marcus’ camp for dinner and indulged in beefy beany bacony thingy. It was very good.
Sunday had a less chilly start, thanks to the extra sleeping bag Marcus loaned me (thank you again!)
I was in the shell first again and found the best way for me (personally) to interact with the patrons walking past.
So I sing :D
Well… not really singing, nor humming. It is more like… vocalizing at people.
Usually whatever song is stuck in my head at the moment. Though I do take requests from the crew :)
No one seemed to recognize the tunes from musicals, or the Christmas carols that our captain suggested, but “drunken sailor” was noticed, as was “the imperial march”.
During the first break, I found a snail in the dressing tent! It wasn’t the kind I am use to, with the long white shells. It was brown with a typical “snail shell”. It was exciting. (I know, I am so strange)
For the second set I was in the large pool.
One of the flower sellers made her way through and gave each of us the most beautiful gladiolus, or "sword lily" (my second favorite flower) We wondered who had sent them for a while until we discovered it was our captain who bought them for his four favorite mermaids :)
I wandered over to watch English wrestling with the first mate and saw Lavanya win her fight. It is nice to see people I was in auditions with happy and doing so well.
During the third set I was singing (vocalizing) “My Johnny was a Shoemaker” and a patron asked, “wait, is that you?” (I don’t know if she thought it was a background soundtrack, another mermaid, or what) and when I nodded she told me that it was beautiful.
While it got a little chilly towards the end, it was a very good day.
The drive home was nice and the night sky was so clear and beautiful. The stars were stunning and I am looking forward to next weekend.
Opening Weekend
Opening weekend was simply amazing.
But since I obviously cannot stop there, get comfortable and let me regale you with the story of my first time working at a renaissance festival.
Firstly, I figured out what to put in my locket. (It is a secret, but I can tell you that the answer is not “nothing”)
Second, I seem to be built for the faire.
I can go all day without eating, without feeling ill or hungry. Of course, the other five days of the week I eat like I have never seen food.
I have also been blessed with an iron bladder, which is great when you are in a silicone tail for two plus hour sets.
Anyway~
I had been suffering from allergies all week leading up to the faire.
I ventured out Friday afternoon to set up camp and help out with various last minute things. I got a little overwhelmed with the sheer amount of people in the campground and was a little worried when I saw that my camping spot had been encroached upon.
I headed up to the workshop to speak with my boss, Rex, about it.
She was busy, so I hung around and saw the many people coming and going, picking up passes and dropping off paperwork and whatnot.
That was when I got to meet Alan Hutton. I was sooooo excited. I love watching Oskar Hasselhoff, German Master of Defense! He was incredibly nice and I hope to speak to him more in the future.
The evening flew by and it was decided that I should stay in the workshop overnight, and figure out the camping situation later.
~
Opening morning arrives.
I had not gotten much sleep, but felt pretty good.
The other girls showed up at the workshop and we prepped for the day. Hair, makeup, costume, the works, then headed down to the lagoon to get into our tails for the first set of the day.
Finagling your way into a custom-fit-to-you silicone tail is interesting to say the least, and I will leave it at that :)
We have three “performances” a day. Roughly 11:00-1:00, 2:00-4:00, and 5:00-6:30. (I say “roughly” because sometimes it takes us a bit to get into our tails. Of course, later on these times will be much more accurate as we get faster and more practiced.
It was a little cool, but not too bad.
I went from the small pool, to the clam shell, to the big pool.
All the while trying to time my coughs for when the other girls were being loud or patrons were out of earshot.
Seeing the joy/wonder/awe on the children’s faces is a treat, but it is really great to see adults just as, if not more, excited.
That night I slept in the workshop again (it was really comfortable, I had multiple layers of fluffy stuff under my sleeping bag, over the floor)
Day two was so very cold. My goodness it was cold.
The water didn’t help, but in a few weeks that water will be a godsend.
I was in the big pool first, then the shell, followed by the small pond.
It is great fun to further embarrass already embarrassed little boys by blowing kisses at them.
After the last set we had our pictures done, which involved twisting (and flopping) around into crazy positions. It was great fun. I have yet to see them, but there are some I am really looking forward to.
At the end of the day I was not starved, dehydrated, or sunburned. I can hardly wait to do it again and I am looking forward to meeting more of the wonderful people who work out at the faire.
All and all, I’d say it went swimmingly :D
But since I obviously cannot stop there, get comfortable and let me regale you with the story of my first time working at a renaissance festival.
Firstly, I figured out what to put in my locket. (It is a secret, but I can tell you that the answer is not “nothing”)
Second, I seem to be built for the faire.
I can go all day without eating, without feeling ill or hungry. Of course, the other five days of the week I eat like I have never seen food.
I have also been blessed with an iron bladder, which is great when you are in a silicone tail for two plus hour sets.
Anyway~
I had been suffering from allergies all week leading up to the faire.
I ventured out Friday afternoon to set up camp and help out with various last minute things. I got a little overwhelmed with the sheer amount of people in the campground and was a little worried when I saw that my camping spot had been encroached upon.
I headed up to the workshop to speak with my boss, Rex, about it.
She was busy, so I hung around and saw the many people coming and going, picking up passes and dropping off paperwork and whatnot.
That was when I got to meet Alan Hutton. I was sooooo excited. I love watching Oskar Hasselhoff, German Master of Defense! He was incredibly nice and I hope to speak to him more in the future.
The evening flew by and it was decided that I should stay in the workshop overnight, and figure out the camping situation later.
~
Opening morning arrives.
I had not gotten much sleep, but felt pretty good.
The other girls showed up at the workshop and we prepped for the day. Hair, makeup, costume, the works, then headed down to the lagoon to get into our tails for the first set of the day.
Finagling your way into a custom-fit-to-you silicone tail is interesting to say the least, and I will leave it at that :)
We have three “performances” a day. Roughly 11:00-1:00, 2:00-4:00, and 5:00-6:30. (I say “roughly” because sometimes it takes us a bit to get into our tails. Of course, later on these times will be much more accurate as we get faster and more practiced.
It was a little cool, but not too bad.
I went from the small pool, to the clam shell, to the big pool.
All the while trying to time my coughs for when the other girls were being loud or patrons were out of earshot.
Seeing the joy/wonder/awe on the children’s faces is a treat, but it is really great to see adults just as, if not more, excited.
That night I slept in the workshop again (it was really comfortable, I had multiple layers of fluffy stuff under my sleeping bag, over the floor)
Day two was so very cold. My goodness it was cold.
The water didn’t help, but in a few weeks that water will be a godsend.
I was in the big pool first, then the shell, followed by the small pond.
It is great fun to further embarrass already embarrassed little boys by blowing kisses at them.
After the last set we had our pictures done, which involved twisting (and flopping) around into crazy positions. It was great fun. I have yet to see them, but there are some I am really looking forward to.
At the end of the day I was not starved, dehydrated, or sunburned. I can hardly wait to do it again and I am looking forward to meeting more of the wonderful people who work out at the faire.
All and all, I’d say it went swimmingly :D
Monday, March 11, 2013
Costuming
We were told two weeks ago that we had to have our costumes finished by today.
Finished finished.
Because we were to have a photoshoot.
Then, the photoshoot is abruptly canceled.
We still had a meeting anyway to see where everyone was and how things were going.
My costume could go out on stage right now. There are things that could (and will be) ajusted or tweaked, but, for all intents and purposes, it is done.
The other girls have not even started on theirs.
>:I
Anyway, that just endears me to my boss and increases the likelyhood that my contract will be renewed.
I still have not come up with a name I love yet, but I am still thinking.
(also, since I have neglected to mention this as of yet, I am going to be a mermaid)
Please forgive the short and oddly structured post.
It is 2:17 a.m. and my eyes hurt
Finished finished.
Because we were to have a photoshoot.
Then, the photoshoot is abruptly canceled.
We still had a meeting anyway to see where everyone was and how things were going.
My costume could go out on stage right now. There are things that could (and will be) ajusted or tweaked, but, for all intents and purposes, it is done.
The other girls have not even started on theirs.
>:I
Anyway, that just endears me to my boss and increases the likelyhood that my contract will be renewed.
I still have not come up with a name I love yet, but I am still thinking.
(also, since I have neglected to mention this as of yet, I am going to be a mermaid)
Please forgive the short and oddly structured post.
It is 2:17 a.m. and my eyes hurt
Friday, February 15, 2013
Update
I realise it has been a while with no updates, and I apologize :)
I got a phone call a few weeks ago asking if I wanted to participate in a new show they are starting this year, and after much consideration, I accepted.
That means I am not in the SAPA program.
But, if this other thing does not work out, I was guaranteed a spot in SAPA next year without having to re-audtion.
I felt it was a win-win.
I am not at liberty to discuss this position at this time, but as soon as it is announced to the public, I will be sure to post here and tell you!
As of now, I have a rough back story and I am still working on my name.
I am so very excited!
(The name I am thinking of right now is "Rosalie" but one of the other girls I will be working closely with wants us to have a theme going on, so if we go that route, I will have to convince them to go with flowers or I will need to pick a different name)
I got a phone call a few weeks ago asking if I wanted to participate in a new show they are starting this year, and after much consideration, I accepted.
That means I am not in the SAPA program.
But, if this other thing does not work out, I was guaranteed a spot in SAPA next year without having to re-audtion.
I felt it was a win-win.
I am not at liberty to discuss this position at this time, but as soon as it is announced to the public, I will be sure to post here and tell you!
As of now, I have a rough back story and I am still working on my name.
I am so very excited!
(The name I am thinking of right now is "Rosalie" but one of the other girls I will be working closely with wants us to have a theme going on, so if we go that route, I will have to convince them to go with flowers or I will need to pick a different name)
Monday, January 14, 2013
The Audition
Waking up early was not fun.
I am so not a morning person.
Anyway, even getting out there was quite the ordeal. My truck floats so well it should be titled as a boat. Seriously, I hit a puddle and *bloop* there I go, floating along with no traction.
>.>
So, I finally make it there, sign in, etc. Then we all funnel into the room.
It was a fairly large room with one row of chairs facing the table where the judges sat.
(one guy made a comment about there only being one row and that nobody could hide in the back now)
Everyone was very warm and friendly.
All the activities we did *cough*games we played*cough* were to show how we interacted with others and our spontaneity.
Afterwards, I went to lunch with some of the other people who auditioned. *gasp* yes, the eternal hermit went out and did something. Shocking, I know.
That evening, I went to the mall (for the first time in quite a while) with my sister to buy some clothes for a new job and that is when I received the phone call.
I MADE IT IN!!! :D
I realize that there is still a chance things might not work out, but I am extremely excited out it.
I am very much looking forward to orientation and the workshops.
Stay tuned ~
I am so not a morning person.
Anyway, even getting out there was quite the ordeal. My truck floats so well it should be titled as a boat. Seriously, I hit a puddle and *bloop* there I go, floating along with no traction.
>.>
So, I finally make it there, sign in, etc. Then we all funnel into the room.
It was a fairly large room with one row of chairs facing the table where the judges sat.
(one guy made a comment about there only being one row and that nobody could hide in the back now)
Everyone was very warm and friendly.
All the activities we did *cough*games we played*cough* were to show how we interacted with others and our spontaneity.
Afterwards, I went to lunch with some of the other people who auditioned. *gasp* yes, the eternal hermit went out and did something. Shocking, I know.
That evening, I went to the mall (for the first time in quite a while) with my sister to buy some clothes for a new job and that is when I received the phone call.
I MADE IT IN!!! :D
I realize that there is still a chance things might not work out, but I am extremely excited out it.
I am very much looking forward to orientation and the workshops.
Stay tuned ~
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
My Audition is in a Few Days and...
I am freaking out.
I mean, I am still happy and excited, but the closer it gets, the more real it becomes.
It does not help that I just got the FAQ sheet and it makes the whole process seem a little daunting.
"Understand not everyone will make it into the Performing Company, but that in no way reflects badly on you."
Fairly obvious. I can deal with that. All I have to worry about is the audition. I pass that, get a quick answer, then I know my fate.
If I get a "yes", then my worries are over, right?
"Wrong. Typically 20% of new actors invited won’t make it in the Company by opening day for a variety of reasons."
D:
I mean, holy cow. It is good to know this ahead of time, but man, the pressure is really on now!
I am trying to prepare myself for "7 weekends of the most intense workshops available", but as I have never done anything like this in my life, I am focusing more on trying to remain calm.
~~~
I mean, I am still happy and excited, but the closer it gets, the more real it becomes.
It does not help that I just got the FAQ sheet and it makes the whole process seem a little daunting.
"Understand not everyone will make it into the Performing Company, but that in no way reflects badly on you."
Fairly obvious. I can deal with that. All I have to worry about is the audition. I pass that, get a quick answer, then I know my fate.
If I get a "yes", then my worries are over, right?
"Wrong. Typically 20% of new actors invited won’t make it in the Company by opening day for a variety of reasons."
D:
I mean, holy cow. It is good to know this ahead of time, but man, the pressure is really on now!
I am trying to prepare myself for "7 weekends of the most intense workshops available", but as I have never done anything like this in my life, I am focusing more on trying to remain calm.
~~~
Plans
At this point in time, I have an audition for SAPA (Scarborough Academy of Performing Arts).
Even if I do not get a part, I still plan on going out there most, if not every, weekend this season.
I also plan to make it down to TRF most weekends.
We will see what the future holds ^-^
Even if I do not get a part, I still plan on going out there most, if not every, weekend this season.
I also plan to make it down to TRF most weekends.
We will see what the future holds ^-^
Introduction
Greetings,
My name is Carly and I am starting this journal to keep track of my experiences at the various Renaissance Festivals I attend from here on.
~
First, let me apologize for this opening post. It mainly consists of me trying to recount my first visits to the faire and some of it is a little fuzzy. There is also a touch of rambling and an attempt to remember what I purchased and when. Future posts will be in more managable portions with a fresher mind and therefore will be better written and a more entertaining read. There will also be better discriptions of what I did, people I met, and shows I watched. (In all honesty, they will probably end up being much like the latter portion of this post).
Anyway, I hope you enjoy.
~
My renfest days started three years ago when a friend of mine, who had attended them herself since she was a young child, invited me to go to the Scarborough Renaissance Festival.
I borrowed garb from her and had a great time. I bought some simple, trinket-y type things. If memory serves, I purchased my first pet dragon (a dark blue one, with touches of red and yellow, and a glow-in-the-dark spine), then a copper rose (to add to my rose collection), a comb (the kind you use to hold your hair in place), and a bat puppet.
I believe I attended the faire only once that year.
I could hardly wait for the next season to come 'round.
The following year I went again with the same friend, again borrowing garb from her.
A few weekends later I returned with a different acquaintance and finally purchased my own outfit.
It consisted of a red chemise, a black cincher, and layered skirts from the Frock Shoppe. I also purchased another comb (this time in black) and a rose made of leather. (I am sure there were other things, but I do not remember them at this time)
In 2012 I only made it out there for Labor Day weekend. Of course, after driving it myself for the first time, I was kicking myself for not going more times, simply because I did not realize just how close it really was.
Saturday and Sunday I had my best friend with me. That was when I made the bulk of my purchases. I bought another layer for my outfit (a beautiful dress from MyFavoriteDressShoppe), a corset, a hair wrap, a keychain, some lovely candles (from the Legendary Candle Shop), a pouch and a bird whistle (painted like a cardinal).
That Monday I met up with a different friend and spent most of the day wandering and taking pictures.
Fast forward to the following October.
I had decided that I was going to attend All Hallow's Eve weekend down at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
Despite the drive, it was an absolute blast.
I want to list the negative things first so that I can end on a happy note.
First, it was a four hour drive.
Then, I was stuck in a car with a person who has terrible taste in music, sings along, and randomly changes the lyrics to describe whatever he is seeing >.> ( for example, "oh looook... there is a mcDONALDSsssssss, over there, do od do do od...)
Also, it was frigidly cold.
We were, unfortunately, camped next to druggies and drunkards and someone thought it would be great to go out and get a little under-aged drinking in while he could. (I will never go anywhere with that coworker again)
Finally, I was walking around in heels for two days straight and managed to dig a hole in one of my toes with my pinkie toenail <.<
AND NOW, TO THE AWESOME
I started the rounds, checking out a few shops and getting a free sample of kettle corn. Now I usually don't care for kettle corn, but this stuff was good!
I wandered over and caught the end of the first adult school of sword by the inimitable Oskar Hasselhoff. He is great. I learned a lot because he is both funny and informative.
I made my way back over to the arena and watched the joust.
After which I watched the very end of a Tartanic show
(why yes, those are bagpipe wings
)
I got pulled into a shoe shop where I was quickly ditched by my companion. I believe the nice looking shoe seller might have taken a liking to me.
I caught the beginning of the parade and took tons of pictures.
After that, I alternated between the school of sword and Cast in Bronze. I donated money to Herr Hasselhoff's fund and got myself a pin that displays the seal of Dresden, Germany and lets all that see it know that I support violence!
(the faint coat of arms in the back is what the pin looks like)
Also, I love the carillon so much. For the 5 o'clock show I sat directly in front of Cyrus and watched the show. It was so great. I bought another CD and he signed it for me.
I walked some more and found myself near one of the most talented performers I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing.
I spent quite a while watching the Marble Jester in action. Or "inaction" I should say. >///< He is so wonderful.
He stands atop a pedestal, unmoving, until someone comes along and drops money in his jar. Then he springs to life.
I tipped him quite a bit and got a video of him interacting with me.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Xn0ngAwpd0&feature=plcp
If you are a man he will bow, then shake your hand.
If you are a woman, he will bow, get you to curtsy, shake your hand, then gently kiss it.
If you are a child, he will wave, shake your hand, and more often than not do a series of illusions involving distorted, elongated, or magically morphing fingers.
Also, if you have a sturdy, straight object with you, he will take it and balance it on his chin.
After that I wandered some more, got my portrait done, and went to see the closing fireworks.
After I made it back to the tent I was in for a chilly night.
The next morning I made a beeline towards the school of sword to see what I would learn. I made the rounds and caught the attention of one of the workers who manned the rides, we talked for a few moments before he had to get back to work. I hope he didn't get in too much trouble, as he told me he shouldn't spend too long talking to any one person.
I saw the end of the 10:30 school of sword and let me tell you, stabbing people in the kidneys will always be funny to me.
I tried to make a habit of passing by the candied almond booths so I could keep collecting free samples.
I watched part of the Clan Tynker show and I can only say that I regret not having a better view. They are great.
I watched the parade and met back up with my coworker.
We watched a "fakespereian" drama and then I headed back over for the 1:30 school of sword and got a seat right near the front. That lesson was the double handed sword followed by rapier and dagger. Afterwards I purchased a copy of his self defense book, "Grab Them by the Crotch and Throw Them Out the Window".
I watched the Cast in Bronze show and bought his DVD at the end. It took the lady selling the CDs a minute to recognize me but she did, and when I got in line to get it signed, Cyrus recognized me right away. When I told him I was flattered he remembered me, he said that he wouldn't forget a pretty girl like me. Then he let me take my picture with him.
I caught the fire whip show, which was very impressive, and did *shocking* more wandering.
Walked all the way across the faire and caught the end of the Ded Bob show. Man he is funny!
I scored a front row seat to watch Tartanic and enjoyed myself immensely.
Of course, as it was about that time, I headed back over to see my favorite attraction: The Marble Jester.
^w^
I met a guy that works at Ren Leather. He had gotten off early and enjoyed watching this performer almost as much as I did.
I watched as this amazing performer balanced swords and other oddities.
I got my new friend to take pictures while I tipped the jester (again) and got to watch his talent and grace.
He took the wooden roses I had bought earlier in the day and balanced them as I watched in wonder and awe.
As he was packing his things to go I gave him another tip and he spoke to me for a moment *squeeeeeee*
anyway, after that I walked around for a while longer before catching the fireworks show (with musical accompaniment by the fabulous Tartanic) before heading to the car for the drive home.
I was a little sad. I guess it feels like I am leaving some part of myself behind, if that makes any sense.
That was when I decided I would come back as soon as I could.
I picked Celtic Christmas, because somehow the final weekend of the season seems to have that much more magic.
This time, however, I went alone.
I had a wonderful three day weekend.
I started out later than I would have liked, but the drive was not all that bad, just long.
(okay, I have no idea why it is doing this and I am too tired to fix it right now...)
I arrived between two and three and made my way over to the Globe stage where I met up with Tonks.
After watching the end of the Ded Bob Sho I caught the last Clan Tynker show of the day. When I went over to tip one of the performers, he remembered me from when I'd written him a letter! Needless to say that made me very happy.
I went to the Frock Shoppe and bought a few new items on clothing, then wandered around for a while before the closing ceremony where I watched Clan Tynker's antics and the Marble Jester balance his way around the arena's railing.
The closing fireworks were, as always, amazing.
I hadn't felt like acquiring and setting up a tent, so I camped in my truck. It was surprisingly comfortable! I wasn't too cold and I had picked a spot that was nice and quiet.
The next day I got up to the front gate a few minutes after the opening canon.
I headed over to the Globe stage to secure a front row seat to the first Clan Tynker show of the day.
They are amazingly talented and I highly suggest seeing their act at least once, if not multiple times.
I met back up with Tonks in time for the second performance which we both enjoyed. (before which, a cotton candy vendor had attracted the attention of Sam Tynker when he started drumming to get to crowd to notice him and buy his wares. They did a little impromptu drum duet.)
We saw the parade and checked out a few stores before going back to the Globe stage for another round of Clan Tynker.
I asked Elijah if I could take a picture with him and he kindly agreed.
My friend asked if we could forgo the final show, and I acquiesced because I was going to be attending the faire the next day, while she was not, and could watch more shows then.
We exited the gates and dropped a few things off at her car and on the way back encountered the most amusing pirate. He was up near one of the gates calling out to his "dear not quite as of yet inebriated darlings" and informing them that he was here for their pleasure and would take pictures with, hug, or kiss people for tips. All with a distinctive pirate-y accent. Too bad I don't have any pictures, it was very funny.
Even after agreeing to missing out on the 4:30 show, I still managed to sneak back over in time for the end of said show and bought not only Sounds from Stage Right by Clan Tynker, but Pulse by Sam Tynker as well.
After more sight-seeing and general carrying-on, we ended up over between the Globe stage and the Queen's Pantry where I sat and waited for my friend to go back out to the car and retrieve her cloak.
That is when I met Love in Vain. He was dressed as a demon and walked around in these insane hoof boots. It was really fun talking to him, as he enjoys watching Clan Tynker nearly as much as I do. He assured me that they are just as nice off stage as they are when they are on stage.
I would describe him as "delightfully creepy".
He and I parted ways when he went to "morph into human form" and met back up at the Davinci Dots booth where he, my friend, and I watched the fireworks from there.
Ultimately we got back to the front and went on the ghost tour. After which I drove my friend back to her hotel and sat around drinking hot chocolate before driving back to the camp grounds.
The last day out there was a little strange. It was the first time I was at a ren faire without someone I knew to keep me company.
Predictably, I made a beeline to the Globe stage and watched the, you guessed it, Clan Tynker show.
I met some nice people and those connections came in handy later.
After the show I got Elijah and Rebekah's signatures.
I came up with a completely insane idea somewhere around the end of the second show after I had secured Sam, Santiago, and Serendipity's signatures and was pondering on that when I encountered the parade.
That was when my third and final camera battery died on me. (bleeegh, and I really could have used it later that afternoon)
As I was walking by the arena and encountered Love in Vain again and he encouraged me to go through with my idea. (he also offered to give me a kiss card to use, but I politely, if not frantically, declined. While blushing furiously I am sure.)
Then he stopped one of the french ladies and asked her for the best way to get yourself a guy.
She imparted a plan involving a bear trap and a meal cooked with love. (all told with a wonderful french accent)
LiV (yes, I am too lazy to type that out) wanted to see the third Clan Tynker show so he accompanied me to the wooden rose booth so I could pick up a gift before we went to the Globe stage.
It took us a while to get there because he cannot walk for very long in those shoes of his before he has to sit down.
We sat towards the back and side and after the show he followed me over to where Elijah was collecting tips and set about making the situation quite awkward before I gave Elijah what I picked up at the wooden rose booth.
A single white wooden rose.
I chose a wooden one because I knew they would be packing up to leave soon and I thought it would be more durable for travel if he chose to keep it.
(fun fact for you trivia type people, white roses represent innocence, wistfulness, hope, reverence, and secrecy in the long dead language of flowers)
Elijah thanked me and promptly did a little balancing act with it. He then told me that he wasn't planning on doing his living statue act and might have a little time after the fourth show to chat if I wanted.
I nearly died, but stayed composed (I think) and told him that sounded really nice.
I walked around with LiV a little longer and parted ways sometime around four.
Unfortunately, I did not manage to run into him again and I am having the hardest time finding him via the internet.
I was in the second row for the last Clan Tynker show of the season. However, I was behind the people I had met at the first show of the day and when Rebekah encouraged the crowd to scoot in to make room on the sides for the people in the back, instead of moving into the empty spot, they had me move up so I was in the front row!
The show was really amazing and afterwards I walked over to where Elijah was collecting tips. A few of his other fans came over and spoke to him as well. After they left, he said that he had some things he had to pack and such, but that if I wanted to wait for a few minutes that I could walk over to the last Wine and Alchemy show with him and Sam.
I said that sounded wonderful (hopefully without making too big of a fool of myself) and waited around the back of the Globe stage.
We walked over to the show and I can't believe that I had never stopped before to listen. I had heard them in passing, but I was usually on my way somewhere and hadn't realized how good they are. Now I am going to have to hunt around for a copy of their CD. (Thanks Elijah)
Serendipity gave them roses, Sam got up on stage and played the drums, and Elijah and I stood back and talked in between songs. (sometimes while we were watching them perform, Elijah would start singing along quietly. He has a nice voice and it was adorable.)
(no pictures, of course, what with my camera dying and all)
He is an extremely kind, sweet, and immensely talented man. (and humble, which is incredibly endearing)
He asked me about things I liked to do and was encouraging when I mentioned my failures at learning to ride my unicycle. We also talked about other ren faires I attend and he told me he has actually been to Scarborough before. (It would be so cool to see him there sometime)
He had to leave to prepare for the closing ceremony, but before he left he gave me the lovely red rose he had been carrying around and said it was in exchange for the gift I gave him earlier.
Afterwards I stopped by one last shop before getting a seat in the arena to watch the pyro juggler, the fire whip show, and Clan Tynker before wandering a touch more.
I listened to the singers in the nearby tavern sing "Hoist the Colors" and confounded the worker that manned one of the games when he said, "What are you doing wandering around alone my lady? Where is your lord?" and I replied, "I do not have one."
I stood at the back of the arena to watch the fireworks display and waited for the crowd to thin before heading out to listen to Tartanic play one more time before the festival ended.
It was a little saddening, knowing that I would not see the fairgrounds (or my favorite shows) again for another ten months, but I found comfort in the fact that Scarborough is only five months away and a shorter distance from my house, so I should be able to make it out there more than twice. (even though it is past application time, I am still seriously considering sending one in anyway to see if maybe, just maybe they will accept it. Or perhaps just to see if it is something they would be interested in for the next season)
After a slightly unnerving drive home (during which I found myself having trouble concentrating on the road, and had to roll down my window to freeze myself out so I could keep myself awake) I arrived back at my house at about two in the morning.
All and all, I had a great time and met some wonderful people whom I can hopefully get back in touch or stay in touch with.
My name is Carly and I am starting this journal to keep track of my experiences at the various Renaissance Festivals I attend from here on.
~
First, let me apologize for this opening post. It mainly consists of me trying to recount my first visits to the faire and some of it is a little fuzzy. There is also a touch of rambling and an attempt to remember what I purchased and when. Future posts will be in more managable portions with a fresher mind and therefore will be better written and a more entertaining read. There will also be better discriptions of what I did, people I met, and shows I watched. (In all honesty, they will probably end up being much like the latter portion of this post).
Anyway, I hope you enjoy.
~
My renfest days started three years ago when a friend of mine, who had attended them herself since she was a young child, invited me to go to the Scarborough Renaissance Festival.
I borrowed garb from her and had a great time. I bought some simple, trinket-y type things. If memory serves, I purchased my first pet dragon (a dark blue one, with touches of red and yellow, and a glow-in-the-dark spine), then a copper rose (to add to my rose collection), a comb (the kind you use to hold your hair in place), and a bat puppet.
I believe I attended the faire only once that year.
I could hardly wait for the next season to come 'round.
The following year I went again with the same friend, again borrowing garb from her.
A few weekends later I returned with a different acquaintance and finally purchased my own outfit.
It consisted of a red chemise, a black cincher, and layered skirts from the Frock Shoppe. I also purchased another comb (this time in black) and a rose made of leather. (I am sure there were other things, but I do not remember them at this time)
In 2012 I only made it out there for Labor Day weekend. Of course, after driving it myself for the first time, I was kicking myself for not going more times, simply because I did not realize just how close it really was.
Saturday and Sunday I had my best friend with me. That was when I made the bulk of my purchases. I bought another layer for my outfit (a beautiful dress from MyFavoriteDressShoppe), a corset, a hair wrap, a keychain, some lovely candles (from the Legendary Candle Shop), a pouch and a bird whistle (painted like a cardinal).
That Monday I met up with a different friend and spent most of the day wandering and taking pictures.
Fast forward to the following October.
I had decided that I was going to attend All Hallow's Eve weekend down at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
Despite the drive, it was an absolute blast.
I want to list the negative things first so that I can end on a happy note.
First, it was a four hour drive.
Then, I was stuck in a car with a person who has terrible taste in music, sings along, and randomly changes the lyrics to describe whatever he is seeing >.> ( for example, "oh looook... there is a mcDONALDSsssssss, over there, do od do do od...)
Also, it was frigidly cold.
We were, unfortunately, camped next to druggies and drunkards and someone thought it would be great to go out and get a little under-aged drinking in while he could. (I will never go anywhere with that coworker again)
Finally, I was walking around in heels for two days straight and managed to dig a hole in one of my toes with my pinkie toenail <.<
AND NOW, TO THE AWESOME
I started the rounds, checking out a few shops and getting a free sample of kettle corn. Now I usually don't care for kettle corn, but this stuff was good!
I wandered over and caught the end of the first adult school of sword by the inimitable Oskar Hasselhoff. He is great. I learned a lot because he is both funny and informative.
I made my way back over to the arena and watched the joust.
After which I watched the very end of a Tartanic show
(why yes, those are bagpipe wings
)I got pulled into a shoe shop where I was quickly ditched by my companion. I believe the nice looking shoe seller might have taken a liking to me.
I caught the beginning of the parade and took tons of pictures.
After that, I alternated between the school of sword and Cast in Bronze. I donated money to Herr Hasselhoff's fund and got myself a pin that displays the seal of Dresden, Germany and lets all that see it know that I support violence!
(the faint coat of arms in the back is what the pin looks like)
Also, I love the carillon so much. For the 5 o'clock show I sat directly in front of Cyrus and watched the show. It was so great. I bought another CD and he signed it for me.
I walked some more and found myself near one of the most talented performers I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing.
I spent quite a while watching the Marble Jester in action. Or "inaction" I should say. >///< He is so wonderful.
He stands atop a pedestal, unmoving, until someone comes along and drops money in his jar. Then he springs to life.
I tipped him quite a bit and got a video of him interacting with me.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Xn0ngAwpd0&feature=plcp
If you are a man he will bow, then shake your hand.
If you are a woman, he will bow, get you to curtsy, shake your hand, then gently kiss it.
If you are a child, he will wave, shake your hand, and more often than not do a series of illusions involving distorted, elongated, or magically morphing fingers.
Also, if you have a sturdy, straight object with you, he will take it and balance it on his chin.
After that I wandered some more, got my portrait done, and went to see the closing fireworks.
After I made it back to the tent I was in for a chilly night.
The next morning I made a beeline towards the school of sword to see what I would learn. I made the rounds and caught the attention of one of the workers who manned the rides, we talked for a few moments before he had to get back to work. I hope he didn't get in too much trouble, as he told me he shouldn't spend too long talking to any one person.
I saw the end of the 10:30 school of sword and let me tell you, stabbing people in the kidneys will always be funny to me.
I tried to make a habit of passing by the candied almond booths so I could keep collecting free samples.
I watched part of the Clan Tynker show and I can only say that I regret not having a better view. They are great.
I watched the parade and met back up with my coworker.
We watched a "fakespereian" drama and then I headed back over for the 1:30 school of sword and got a seat right near the front. That lesson was the double handed sword followed by rapier and dagger. Afterwards I purchased a copy of his self defense book, "Grab Them by the Crotch and Throw Them Out the Window".
I watched the Cast in Bronze show and bought his DVD at the end. It took the lady selling the CDs a minute to recognize me but she did, and when I got in line to get it signed, Cyrus recognized me right away. When I told him I was flattered he remembered me, he said that he wouldn't forget a pretty girl like me.
Then he let me take my picture with him.I caught the fire whip show, which was very impressive, and did *shocking* more wandering.
Walked all the way across the faire and caught the end of the Ded Bob show. Man he is funny!
I scored a front row seat to watch Tartanic and enjoyed myself immensely.
Of course, as it was about that time, I headed back over to see my favorite attraction: The Marble Jester.
^w^
I met a guy that works at Ren Leather. He had gotten off early and enjoyed watching this performer almost as much as I did.
I watched as this amazing performer balanced swords and other oddities.
I got my new friend to take pictures while I tipped the jester (again) and got to watch his talent and grace.
He took the wooden roses I had bought earlier in the day and balanced them as I watched in wonder and awe.
As he was packing his things to go I gave him another tip and he spoke to me for a moment *squeeeeeee*
anyway, after that I walked around for a while longer before catching the fireworks show (with musical accompaniment by the fabulous Tartanic) before heading to the car for the drive home.
I was a little sad. I guess it feels like I am leaving some part of myself behind, if that makes any sense.
That was when I decided I would come back as soon as I could.
I picked Celtic Christmas, because somehow the final weekend of the season seems to have that much more magic.
This time, however, I went alone.
I had a wonderful three day weekend.
I started out later than I would have liked, but the drive was not all that bad, just long.
(okay, I have no idea why it is doing this and I am too tired to fix it right now...)
I arrived between two and three and made my way over to the Globe stage where I met up with Tonks.
After watching the end of the Ded Bob Sho I caught the last Clan Tynker show of the day. When I went over to tip one of the performers, he remembered me from when I'd written him a letter! Needless to say that made me very happy.
I went to the Frock Shoppe and bought a few new items on clothing, then wandered around for a while before the closing ceremony where I watched Clan Tynker's antics and the Marble Jester balance his way around the arena's railing.
The closing fireworks were, as always, amazing.
I hadn't felt like acquiring and setting up a tent, so I camped in my truck. It was surprisingly comfortable! I wasn't too cold and I had picked a spot that was nice and quiet.
The next day I got up to the front gate a few minutes after the opening canon.
I headed over to the Globe stage to secure a front row seat to the first Clan Tynker show of the day.
They are amazingly talented and I highly suggest seeing their act at least once, if not multiple times.
I met back up with Tonks in time for the second performance which we both enjoyed. (before which, a cotton candy vendor had attracted the attention of Sam Tynker when he started drumming to get to crowd to notice him and buy his wares. They did a little impromptu drum duet.)
We saw the parade and checked out a few stores before going back to the Globe stage for another round of Clan Tynker.
I asked Elijah if I could take a picture with him and he kindly agreed.
My friend asked if we could forgo the final show, and I acquiesced because I was going to be attending the faire the next day, while she was not, and could watch more shows then.
We exited the gates and dropped a few things off at her car and on the way back encountered the most amusing pirate. He was up near one of the gates calling out to his "dear not quite as of yet inebriated darlings" and informing them that he was here for their pleasure and would take pictures with, hug, or kiss people for tips. All with a distinctive pirate-y accent. Too bad I don't have any pictures, it was very funny.
Even after agreeing to missing out on the 4:30 show, I still managed to sneak back over in time for the end of said show and bought not only Sounds from Stage Right by Clan Tynker, but Pulse by Sam Tynker as well.
After more sight-seeing and general carrying-on, we ended up over between the Globe stage and the Queen's Pantry where I sat and waited for my friend to go back out to the car and retrieve her cloak.
That is when I met Love in Vain. He was dressed as a demon and walked around in these insane hoof boots. It was really fun talking to him, as he enjoys watching Clan Tynker nearly as much as I do. He assured me that they are just as nice off stage as they are when they are on stage.
I would describe him as "delightfully creepy".
He and I parted ways when he went to "morph into human form" and met back up at the Davinci Dots booth where he, my friend, and I watched the fireworks from there.
Ultimately we got back to the front and went on the ghost tour. After which I drove my friend back to her hotel and sat around drinking hot chocolate before driving back to the camp grounds.
The last day out there was a little strange. It was the first time I was at a ren faire without someone I knew to keep me company.
Predictably, I made a beeline to the Globe stage and watched the, you guessed it, Clan Tynker show.
I met some nice people and those connections came in handy later.
After the show I got Elijah and Rebekah's signatures.
I came up with a completely insane idea somewhere around the end of the second show after I had secured Sam, Santiago, and Serendipity's signatures and was pondering on that when I encountered the parade.
That was when my third and final camera battery died on me. (bleeegh, and I really could have used it later that afternoon)
As I was walking by the arena and encountered Love in Vain again and he encouraged me to go through with my idea. (he also offered to give me a kiss card to use, but I politely, if not frantically, declined. While blushing furiously I am sure.)
Then he stopped one of the french ladies and asked her for the best way to get yourself a guy.
She imparted a plan involving a bear trap and a meal cooked with love. (all told with a wonderful french accent)
LiV (yes, I am too lazy to type that out) wanted to see the third Clan Tynker show so he accompanied me to the wooden rose booth so I could pick up a gift before we went to the Globe stage.
It took us a while to get there because he cannot walk for very long in those shoes of his before he has to sit down.
We sat towards the back and side and after the show he followed me over to where Elijah was collecting tips and set about making the situation quite awkward before I gave Elijah what I picked up at the wooden rose booth.
A single white wooden rose.
I chose a wooden one because I knew they would be packing up to leave soon and I thought it would be more durable for travel if he chose to keep it.
(fun fact for you trivia type people, white roses represent innocence, wistfulness, hope, reverence, and secrecy in the long dead language of flowers)
Elijah thanked me and promptly did a little balancing act with it. He then told me that he wasn't planning on doing his living statue act and might have a little time after the fourth show to chat if I wanted.
I nearly died, but stayed composed (I think) and told him that sounded really nice.
I walked around with LiV a little longer and parted ways sometime around four.
Unfortunately, I did not manage to run into him again and I am having the hardest time finding him via the internet.
I was in the second row for the last Clan Tynker show of the season. However, I was behind the people I had met at the first show of the day and when Rebekah encouraged the crowd to scoot in to make room on the sides for the people in the back, instead of moving into the empty spot, they had me move up so I was in the front row!
The show was really amazing and afterwards I walked over to where Elijah was collecting tips. A few of his other fans came over and spoke to him as well. After they left, he said that he had some things he had to pack and such, but that if I wanted to wait for a few minutes that I could walk over to the last Wine and Alchemy show with him and Sam.
I said that sounded wonderful (hopefully without making too big of a fool of myself) and waited around the back of the Globe stage.
We walked over to the show and I can't believe that I had never stopped before to listen. I had heard them in passing, but I was usually on my way somewhere and hadn't realized how good they are. Now I am going to have to hunt around for a copy of their CD. (Thanks Elijah)
Serendipity gave them roses, Sam got up on stage and played the drums, and Elijah and I stood back and talked in between songs. (sometimes while we were watching them perform, Elijah would start singing along quietly. He has a nice voice and it was adorable.)
(no pictures, of course, what with my camera dying and all)
He is an extremely kind, sweet, and immensely talented man. (and humble, which is incredibly endearing)
He asked me about things I liked to do and was encouraging when I mentioned my failures at learning to ride my unicycle. We also talked about other ren faires I attend and he told me he has actually been to Scarborough before. (It would be so cool to see him there sometime)
He had to leave to prepare for the closing ceremony, but before he left he gave me the lovely red rose he had been carrying around and said it was in exchange for the gift I gave him earlier.
Afterwards I stopped by one last shop before getting a seat in the arena to watch the pyro juggler, the fire whip show, and Clan Tynker before wandering a touch more.
I listened to the singers in the nearby tavern sing "Hoist the Colors" and confounded the worker that manned one of the games when he said, "What are you doing wandering around alone my lady? Where is your lord?" and I replied, "I do not have one."
I stood at the back of the arena to watch the fireworks display and waited for the crowd to thin before heading out to listen to Tartanic play one more time before the festival ended.
It was a little saddening, knowing that I would not see the fairgrounds (or my favorite shows) again for another ten months, but I found comfort in the fact that Scarborough is only five months away and a shorter distance from my house, so I should be able to make it out there more than twice. (even though it is past application time, I am still seriously considering sending one in anyway to see if maybe, just maybe they will accept it. Or perhaps just to see if it is something they would be interested in for the next season)
After a slightly unnerving drive home (during which I found myself having trouble concentrating on the road, and had to roll down my window to freeze myself out so I could keep myself awake) I arrived back at my house at about two in the morning.
All and all, I had a great time and met some wonderful people whom I can hopefully get back in touch or stay in touch with.
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