Movies 2008

2008
January

Once ****
Vitus ***
Transformers **1/2
The Namesake ***1/2
Ratatouille **1/2

February

Juno ***
Amazing Grace ***
Double Jeopardy **1/2
No Reservations **1/2
Becoming Jane ***
Blind Dating **
La Vie en Rose ***

March

Planet Terror **1/2
Death Proof **1/2
Mostly Martha **1/2
Dan in Real Life ***

April

Death at a Funeral **1/2
The Forbidden Kingdom ****
Reign over Me ****
Silk **
Jane Austen Book Club **1/2

May

Flying Scotsman ***
Iron Man *****
Meet the Robinsons ***1/2
Hidden Blade *****
Prince Caspian ***1/2
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull ***
Golden Compass **1/2

June

The Water Horse ***1/2
Kung Fu Panda *****
Linda Linda Linda ***
Spiderman 3 *
Deja Vu ***
You Don't mess with the Zohan ***
Get Smart*****
Taste of Tea **
WALL-E ***1/2

July

Hancock **1/2
Resident Evil: 3 ***
Hellboy2 ****
Meet Dave *
The Dark Knight ****
Wanted **1/2

August
The Other Boleyn Girl **
The Game Plan ***
In Bruges **
Bruce and Lloyd Out of Control ***
Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay ***
The Mummy 3 *
Thunderpants **
You Kill Me ***
Keeping Mum ***
Atonement *
Tropic Thunder ***
Star Wars Clone Wars **
Greenfingers ***
CJ7*
History Boys***
Charlie Bartlett ***
Transamerica ***
Naruto the Movie: Land of Snow **1/2
Lives of Others ****
Persepolis ***
Balls of Fury ***
Miss Pettigrew lives for a day ***1/2

September

Shinobi Heart of the Blade ***
Burn After Reading **
Across the Universe ***
Om Shanti Om ***
The Fall ***
Run Fatboy Run ****

October

Penelope ****

Sex and the City ***

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly **1/2

The Dewey Cox Story **

3:10 to Yuma ****

Made of Honor **1/2

November

Forgetting Sarah Marshall ****

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge **

Mongol ***
Love and Honor ***

December
Role Models *****
When the Earth Stood Still ***
Journey to the Center of the Earth **1/2
The Dutchess ***1/2

Boars Head

Boars Head was a lot of fun. Drove up to Sioux Falls on Friday morning. I had wanted to see if i could get my snow boot zipper fixed at Park Ridge Shoe Repair. They could and it would only cost 10 dollars. Score. Got to Svien's around noonish and we loaded up. We ended up taking two cars since no way we could fit Svien, Funk and Morton's fighter gear, and the rest of the stuff into one car. I guess if I would have had my van we could have all rode together. Sadly its was busy getting a new transmission. Merry Christmas to me. The trip out was uneventful and made it to Jondalara's around 10.

Saturday we were suppose to be up and out of the house by 7:30 since Jondalara was merchanting and needed to be there early. We didn't really leave the house until after eight. Got to site and helped her unload. After that I got dressed spent a lot of the day visiting with lots of people. I hung out with Siri watched the rose tourney. Hrodwyn won two for me. Roamed the merchants a bit with Kathy. Forgot to look for a Christmas present for my mom. Doh! Late afternoon I watched Gaia become Astrid's protege.

After Court we loaded up and went to Applebee's to eat. I was very hungry since I didn't eat much during the day. It was raining then and we were a bit worried it was going to freeze. It didn't. Yay. Went back to site since I rode with Jondalara and the boys were going a in Milwaukee hosted by a friend of Funk's. Jondalara and I went to the Comfort Inn and hung out His Highness, Gunther and Co.

Sunday people were slow to get going. We had a yummy breakfast and then headed out to pick Funk up. Wasn't until then that the boys realized we might have to drive through ick. I told them that we should be able to get to MN at least and no use staying in Milwaukee. So we left and it wasn't until we got to Blue Earth that it got crappy. Visibility was the big problem. Around Jackson I told Svien that I was willing to pay for a hotel room. He was determined to go on since the roads were mostly clear. Only snow pack was near bridges. I said okay at that point and continued to keep my eye on the white line. I was glad I wasn't driving. It was pretty crap but we made it back to SF around 10. I ended up staying at Svien's since i didn't want to drive home alone in the dangerous cold. Drove home on Monday. It was horrible cold but made it home no problem. We got some snow at home but it all ended up in the ditches and in my parking spot. Wasn't too happy with the job they did cleaning out our apato lot. Its snowing againg today so they get today to do better. Otherwise I am calling.

Yuletide and Snow

Yuletide was fun as per usual. Its a nice little event. I didn't get to hang out with Rue as much as I wanted but other than that it was a good time. Stopped off and did some shopping before I got to site. Still need to pick up a few things for Mom and Dad. Gah they are the hardest to buy for. Dad's a little easier since he is not as picky as mom. I just don't know. Every year is harder and harder.

The post revel was at Rick's house in Brandon. A little bit of a drive but fun when we got there. Ended up staying over since I had no great desire to drive home at 3am. Everyone was still sleeping when I left at 9. The rest of Sunday was spent doing the usual laundry and napping.

In the evening Hagan called to see if i wanted to go see Role Models. It was hilarious. At lot of the movie takes place with a LARP group and there are many moments that I think would amuse SCA people.

Yesterday we got snow. Started out as rain, ice then snow. (I think that was the scenario for most places) It was ice pellets when I left work. Thankfully it wasn't a complete ice sheet under foot. The crappy part was that I have traded vans with my Dad while mine is being looked at. Its leaking transmission fluid. Not good. While my Dad's van has an remote starter, awesome I think I want one, the bad part is that I forgot to grab my uber ice scrapper. Instead of my heavy duty one I had to make do with a flimsy bank giveaway scrapper. Managed to scrap off enough to see to get home. I was glad I didn't have to go anywhere after that.

Heralds & Scribes Symposium

Murphy's Law 542 states that the outfit you planned to wear at the event will not be temperature appropriate, leading you on an 2 hour search for something else to wear.

Typical the weather in Pierre was forecast to be 70 degrees. Not really suitable to wear my wool dress that I wanted to wear. Hot=crabby and unsociable. After much digging suitable outfit was put together. I grumped at myself for waiting until the last minute.

Murphy's law 343 states that the day you want to leave work early will be the busiest day of the week.

And Friday sure was. Not only did I have to sub for someone else but we had a major committee meeting. Gah! Somehow I managed to get everything done and was out of there by 3 pm.


The trip up was uneventful. I was very glad that no deer decided to slam dance the van. Saw some dead ones but that was it. Rocked out with help from MP3 player. Pretty much roared up the highway and only stopped in Oacoma to get gas and food. The highlight of the drive up was the sunset over the Missouri. (lowlight was not being able to see a thing while driving up the western side of the hill after crossing the river.) Made it to the hotel by 7:30ish. Just in time for to unload and watch Crusoe. I had no idea what rooms other people were in so worked on projects watched TV.

Saturday had breakfast with some of the Wisconsin people. Yay waffles! Then went back to room to put my garb on. Fiona and Skadi showed up before I left for site so I waited while they changed and then headed around the corner and up the hill. Got to love super close sites.

Got unloaded and there and a few people were surprised to see me (pleasantly) and wished they had known I was coming. Huzzah for stealth appearances.

Went to a few classes that will hopefully motivate me to get going on my own heraldic research. I also finally got the hang of how to lucet with Greta's help. The rest of the day was spent visiting with people. Lunch we had yummy soups and for feast we had pizza and a plethora of deserts. So good.

Hung out at the hotel afterward and had a lively heraldic discussion. See smlibrarian lj for details. A different type of post revel but still fun.

We got up pretty early Sunday morning because of of the time change. We had breakfast at hotel and then got packed up. On my way out of town I drove by the capital to snap a few shots since it was a pretty morning. The drive home was super gorgeous.

Since it wasn't too much out of the way, I decided to pop by the demo in Brookings. They had lots of people there and you could not ask for a better day. Hagan had brought up some of our new members and was busy training fighters. Visited a bit but I left before they started the melee. I was ready to be at home. On the way home, stopped for gas at coffee cup and got the bejeez scared out of me by Jess and Rachel. I had been thinking I could meet up with them in SF but when I called they were still in vermillion. They saw me at the gas station and then ambushed me since I didn't see them. Talked to them for a bit and then went home, ordered supper and unpacked.

TGIF now I can collapse

Part of me feels bad I won't be at the Rose Tourney this weekend and then other part is ready for a rest. I did have other things planned this weekend but I have canceled them so I can get over this allergy crap and recover my energy that I used up last weekend at Siege. Seems like I have been on the go for awhile now so it will be good to chill out.

Last night presided over my first meeting as group Seneschal. It went ok except that I didn't initially sit at the head of the table but plopped down in my usual spot. I am not used to the thought of it yet but it shouldn't be too bad. Its not like I haven't done something similar recently.

Congrats to Erin and Dan on the birth of Liam Arthur. No other details than name and that everything is good. I so need to call her.

Warm and windy siege

Thursday I took off work early so I could get a few chores done. I was about to head to the store but decided to give Nailz a call to see where she was at. Strangely she was just about to call me to say she was almost to town. Waited for her arrival and then went out to the Mart of Wal buy a few last minute items. Around 5 we headed out to site to sit troll. We enjoyed the evening while eating pizza and chatting. Around 11 we passed the troll torch onto Del and friends and headed home.

Friday we got up early and sat troll again in the morning. The afternoon was spent running errands and doing some last minute sewing. We waited for Kolbrunna and co. to show up so we could go to lunch but they had already eaten. There were other hungry people so around 3 a group of us went to lunch at Whimps after driving Hagan around so we could procure water troughs for the horsey people. After lunch sat troll for a bit then headed back up to the main hall to relax a bit. By this time I was super tired do to the warm weather and the running around. Ran back down to troll to check on things shortly after the BBQ and Torchlight tourney got started so missed all of that and Mouse's squireing. Was tired and crabby at that point and needed to go to bed. Found Kol and Nailz and headed home.

Saturday morning headed back out and checked on troll and hung out with Juliana and Tarrach until their Majesties arrived. Retained for Her Majesty most of the day until I had to go and close down troll. HM Aesa got a little archery in and then we went down to the new equestrian area. We headed back up to the main hall to watch heavy fighting in front of the fort. I finished up troll, ran home for a bit and a soda and then back to site for court and feast. They had court set up by the time I got back. Feast was yummy pig and afterward it was hang out and relax time. I got to spend time with a lot of people I had been missing this summer, mostly Svaty people that don't live here anymore.

Sunday we went to breakfast at Mr. Smiths and then clean up at site. Then late lunch at Whimps and then home for a nap. Hagan called about 6 to see if we wanted to go see Burn before Reading. Nailz and I went but it was a boring weirdo movie.

Thankfully I was smart and took Monday off where I caught up on my sleep and washed clothes. My sinuses now hate me. I am hoping it will go away soon but who can tell.

Posting at LJ

You may have noticed that I have pretty much abandoned blogger for LJ. I have pretty much fallen for the community aspect of LJ and have been doing most of my blogging over there. For now I plan to keep this blog for my lists and SCA posts but the majority of my posts will be on LJ.

My blog address is http://missdoom.livejournal.com/

Feel free to friend me or just lurk.

Gimli

I had a lovely time at Gimli. Didn't do a whole lot but it was nice to relax in the shade.

Friday morning I had a back cracking session and then headed to SF to kill some time since Hrodir wasn't able to get off work until 3ish so there was no need to rush up to Fargo. Made it to Fargo right about 3. Hrodir had talked about riding along with Camille, Robert and Zanni's husband (I cannot remember his name, GAH) but there was no way my stuff and Hrodir's was going to fit in their van with all of their stuff. Hrodir threw his stuff in my van and off we went. We got north of Grand Forks and my car started to act up when we had to slow down through the construction but once we got to Canada it seemed fine. Well until we got close to site. It was late so we figured we would deal with it later. Hrodir thought maybe one of the tires was unbalanced.

Got to site and everyone was enjoying themselves on the porch of the big cabin. Got unloaded and settled. Drink soon in hand. I didn't sleep overly great that night due to new surroundings and people arriving late in the night. No fault of theirs, I just tend to sleep lighter when I am in a new place. Good excuse to run to the bathroom and visit with people a bit and go back to bed.

Saturday was spent relaxing under the trees watching Landra play and Tarrach and co try to make glass out of sand. They were eventually successful. They ended up with a cloudy green bead. Very cool. I should have gotten a picture of it but the camera never made it out of the bag all weekend.

Sunday my cabin had dishwashing duty but we had many hands so that made it go quick and add to the fun. It was cloudy that day and kind of chilly. Watched the archery some but was distracted by Aineleah's cup and ball tourney and Khadijah's bubble machine. When the rain started we decided to have a porch party. It only sprinkled so we didn't really need to move. After supper I played Perudo and learned how to play cribbage with Johann, Marwen and Vidi.

Monday morning packed up to go home but it started to pore before most could get loaded up. Hrodir and I basically threw stuff in and took off. We ate breakfast in Gimli, got some Canadian crack (i.e. pop and candy) and drove around town for a bit since neither of us had ever done that. There is a giant statue of a viking near the lake so I think next year I would like to stop again and take pictures.
We headed on down the road and the rain stopped. We got to the boarder and got asked the usual questions. They were also asking people to open their back hatches so we pulled forward and then we saw Ia and Landra waving at us in the window. Hrodir made an oh no noise. The boarder guards pulled out the moose antler that Kol had given him and they asked us to pull over and come inside. Tarrach, Fina, Ia and Landra were there too since Tarrach had the other half. I think it made it a little easier to explain after we showed up with the other half. We spent about a half hour there and the antlers got confiscated. We had the option to take them back to Canada but no one really wanted to drive back to Winnipeg.

On the way home my car got more jerky and the vibration got more and more. Hrodir suggested that I stop at a garage in Fargo but we got there around 4 and most things were closed or closing due to the holiday. I decided to press on and see if I could make it home. Driving was crap because it was hot and windy but eventually made it home with no extra problems.

Tuesday I had off so was able to take the van to my mechanic. Turns out the boot under the rim was worn out. Ironically this is the same part that got a rock stuck in it, smoked and melted the hubcap on last year's trip to Gimli. I think next year I am going to have my tires checked out before I go.

Thanks to everyone up in Castel Rouge for putting the event on. I think it is one of the most relaxing events around.

Where's that hole

Vermillion has been one giant construction zone this summer. Not only are they building two new buildings to the north and west of the building I work in but they have been tearing up the main street through town and the last three weeks they have been digging various holes in our parking lot. Lucky no one has fallen into a hole yet.

If you haven't seen the trailer for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Check it out!! I can't wait.

In other Harry Potter news, they are going to publish Tales of Beedle the Bard. Yay! Now I need to decided if I want to get the uber cool collectors edition or just a regular copy. Guess I will put it on my Christmas List.

As an afternoon treat here are some pictures of David Tennant as Hamlet. So cute!

To all those going to Pennsic have a good time!!!

Monday loathing since 1882

Ugg the humidity has been oppressive lately. Saturday I was foolish and turned off the air conditioner since it was 69 degrees. I think the humidity was about 69 too which meant a restless nights sleep. Sunday morning turned it back on and life was better.

Most of the weekend was spent putzing around. Family members from around the country have started to arrive to celebrate my gram's birthday this Saturday. We had dinner in the basement at my mom's. So nice and cool down there. She was overly worried about all the "stuff" she has down there. Its not that bad. The majority is confined to the corners and its not like you have to climb over boxes or worry about dumping a pile over. I understand tho. Most of the time when people visit me I feel the same way. I need a sign that says "Pay no attention to my clutter."

Sunday I was lazy and watched 4 movies. The Other Boleyn Girl (mostly meh), The Game Plan(cute and who doesn't want to see the Rock in ballet tights), In Bruges (weird but I now want to visit Belgium) , and Get Smart's Bruce and Lloyd Out of control ( amusing. I love Masi Oka)

This week looks to be busy. Lots of work meetings. At least it should make the time go quickly. I am also getting my car checked over. Hopefully that won't be too expensive. *crosses fingers*

Be excellent to each other and Party on Dukes

Hagan and I had debated if we wanted to go to WW or not. He has been spending all his extra time working on Cecil's Seige site (Come to Seige in September!) and I have been feeling rather drained lately by all the changes going on at work. Katsuo and Hrodwyn were riding along so would be bad to let them down. I haven't had a chance to run away this summer and I really wanted to see people so off we went. We left on thursday morning. Went down to Hagan's at 10. He still wasn't ready and then we had to go to the barn to pick up a tent and some weapons. We were ready to leave and the van didn't want to start. Hagan got it going and we figured it was because i had very little gas left. Got to SF and picked up Katsuo and Hrodwyn. They were not ready to go either so we didn't leave SF until 1pm. Ate at Fairmount and then turned south at Albert Lea. Hagan had wanted to completely drive through Iowa but neither Hrodwyn or Katsuo had the means to get to Vermillion so we had to pick them up. Hagan was still determined to drive through IA so we did. Wasn't too bad except for spacing out the road closed sign at Charles City and had a 40 minute turn around. I don't remember why we didn't see all the signs. We followed a thunder head most of the way and it rained hard when we got close to the border. I was glad we weren't camping yet. We got to site around 8. We had missed the big storm so yay for that. Camped on the cemetery side of the park. Duncan warned us about getting soaked by zombie juice. We had curbs to protect us so no worries there. Found Fiona and Thora. They were camped on the hillside near porta potties. We decided to camp with them since we couldn't find the people Hagan had planned to camp with. Nice tho being so close to the bathroom. Hagan liked it since we could park the van next to camp. Got set up and then wandered a bit. I ended up hanging out at bardic circle. That was fun and we got song books and cool little clip lights from Ingus. I used it as my tent light for the weekend since i bought the wrong size of batteries for my lantern and then never made it to the dollar store to get the right kind.

Friday got up and first thing i did was slam my pinky in the door jam of the porta pottie. I was not awake enough because I didn't scream or say anything when it happened. Calmly examined it and then used the awesome hand washing stations( I wish they had those at every camping event, so nice) to clean the cut, found my anti bacterial cream and band aids an patched myself up. Hung around camp until my class time. Went to the beginning Nalbinding class. Gah its hard. Not sure if i will keep practicing or consider it something that i just don't get. Probably keep trying for a bit. After that I ran in to Ainsleah and walked back with her to visit the Gnome World Gang. Hung out there for awhile and helped count cash for troll and had a root beer float when they came to camp. After that poke through the merchants and ended up hanging out at Caillie and John's booth for awhile. Headed back to camp and everyone was going swimming. I was tired so rested in camp until they came back. Thora had made us buffalo steaks which were yummy but we were all still hungry so we went to A&W. They still had the phone you order from. Cool. We ate quick and headed back since hagan had a Shadow's company meeting. Hrodwyn and I went to the Bad Baroness tourney and that was fun. Katsuo got second place. Slowly headed back to camp. So hot that night. It was forcast to storm so battened things down and traded my dress for a t-shirt. too hot to wear garb! Sat in the grass until the wind came up and then went to bed before the rain. My tent was set up kind of strange but it stayed up in the rain and kept everything dry. Yay dry tent.

Saturday was a nice day. Watched fighting and visited with people all day. Very enjoyable. It was a bit warm in the sun but in the shade it was very nice. Late afternoon I hung out with Fiona as she wrapped up the Silent Auction and then hung around until Court. After court we were going to go downtown for supper but everything was mostly closed so back to A&W. Was fun since a bunch of SCA people were there. I was pooped after we ate and went to bed right away. I didn't feel like I had the energy to do anything more.

Trip home was nice. Windy but good. When we got to La Crosse a guy on a motorcycle told us the gas hatch was open and the lid was gone. We had heard a thunking noise when we left Boscobel but couldn't figure out what the noise was. I was kind of unhappy about that. We stopped for lunch then and for some reason I looked on the roof and there was the gas lid. Thank you luggage rack! I can't believe it stayed up there for that long. We got to SF around 5 and we went to see HellBoy 2. Awesome. Would have enjoyed it more if was awake.

Monday I slept in, did laundry, and watched Dr Who. Thank goodness I took an the extra day off.

Still not really awake today but not a lot happened while I was gone so not a lot to catch up on.

Not sure what is going on this week. Looks to be hot. I am hoping to tackle my closet project. Hopefully I can ditch old clothes and make better use of my space.

Tuesday

nataliedee.com

Mad Dogs

The blustery weekend did keep the bugs away but not the rain. The wind also ripped a big hole in the Border Downs Pavilion so there was little shade and/or places to hide from the rain. When it wasn't raining it was rather nice. Spent the majority of the day visiting. I was surprised to see Geoffrey and Tatiana there but nice too. Geoffrey and a bunch of the guys were very into making their own portable forge.

I brought several things to work on but had no enthusiasm. Del tried to teach a bunch of us to drum. I have a hard time keeping an even beat and I tend to speed up or slow down. Kaia showed up in the afternoon to show me how to lucet. I must have left my patience at home because I gave up on that after a while. During some of the rain showers, Rue and I went and sat in my van since we didn't feel like taking over anyone's tent. Nice and warm. We both took a little nap thanks to reclining seats.

It continued to rain off and on the rest of the afternoon and by early evening I had decided to head home. The wind must have taken a lot out of me because I was totally drained by the time I got home.

The weather gods were very cruel because Sunday was the perfect day to be outside.

This week is a short work week which will probably feel extra long. Not sure if I will be doing anything for the 4th. Not one of my favorite holidays. Guess we will see what happens.

This is awesome!!!


http://view.break.com/521743 - Watch more free videos

The weekend comes, I have good intentions to do many chore type stuff at home. I get up on Saturday, do a few and take a break and boom the afternoon is shot, all I want to do in the evening is watch TV and very little got done. Bleh.

I did watch Linda Linda Linda. Its cute. Nothing much happens but the music is good.



Doctor Who was amusing. The Doctor's fashback was hilarious. If your curious to what happened to the Doctor when he was searching for Charlemagne you can read about it here.

Its been a long week. Things have been moving and shaking at MPOW. Noisy and dusty. Makes it very hard to concentrate but I am glad I don't have to be involved in the toting and shifting. Here are a few pictures of the deconstruction.

Erin has been in town for a few days on her move back to Seattle. It has been good to catch up and do some porch sitting and blowing bubbles with the the boys. Hard to believe Ethan is 4 and Simon is almost 2.

Not sure what the plans are for the weekend are. Probably hang out at home and contemplate tackling the mess that is my closet.

Since its not too exciting around here is a little Friday funnie. Pie poetry.

There is no charge for awesomeness

The Ren Fair was fun. Much better than last year when it would rain every half hour. It was a little warm and humid but not too bad. Nice to see the sun.

Hagan and I left got to SF around 10:30. Stopped by the leather store and visited with Hark while Hagan got a few things. There were a good number of people at the fair. Found the shire pavilion and got settled in. This year they were set up a little further away from the main area but it was nicer since there was room to have fighting. There were quiet a few people that stopped by to see what we were all about so hopefully Border Downs will get a few new members. I have a few pictures up on my flickr page.

Spent some of the day wandering around. Finally found John and Red Callie's booth. They had opted to be in the expo building (good move) but it took awhile to finally find them. The fair closed at 7 but we hung out for awhile longer visiting. Finally left around 8 and headed supper at Chili's with Basil. Dinner was good but I was dead tired. Hagan wanted to go to B&N after supper. Thankfully it was a quick trip. Picked up some manga. I really need to go through my books to see what I have. I have totally lost track of series I am reading.

On the drive home we got quite a light show. I was glad it didn't rain too much on us. By the time we got back to town it was raining. Bleh.

Sunday did laundry and a bit of knitting. In the evening went to see Kung Fu Panda which was awesome. I kind of wish they had animated the whole film like the opening but on the whole it is a must see.

Friday!!!!!

Yay its Friday and there is sunshine and blue sky. Haven't seen that in a while. Its been one rain storm after another. I am hoping the weekend will be somewhat nice.

Siouxland Ren Fair is this weekend. Still planning on going on Saturday. Should be a good time. Its been a few weeks since I have seen everyone. If the weather stinks can always bail out and go to the movies or shopping. Procured yarn to finish Lilies gifts so should finish that up this weekend too.

This week has been quiet a drag so I am glad its over.

Weekend that was

The weekend was rather sedate which in retrospect exactly what I needed. Friday night went out to dinner with Sarah and Prairie and then ran around in the freaky rain storm. It lasted about 15 minutes. Lilies weather has officially arrived. After that watched Sarah Jane and the Doctor.

Saturday finally mailed out some packages I have had been meaning to mail for weeks. Then worked on Lilies gifts until I ran out of purple yarn. Kaia was going to pick up some in SF this weekend but they didn't have any purple at Hobby Lobby. Poo. Will have to check Micheals and if they don't have any will have to check Sioux City.

Don't think anything too exciting is happening this week. Sioux Falls Ren Fair this week and Border Downs is doing its usual demo. Will probably go up on Saturday and hang out.

you know you like these

1. Your ex is on the side of the road on fire. What do you do?

OMG put them out. Call the EMS. This is a weird question

2. Your best friend tells you she is pregnant. What is your reaction?

Yay for you. Seems like this is a reality since a few of my friends have had or are having babies at the moment

3. When is the last time you wanted to punch someone in their face?

recently

4. Congratulations! You just had a son. What's his name?

Spontanious birth!? Craziness. Umm maybe Colin

5.Congratulations! You just had a daughter. What's her name?

Matilda or Lucy

6. What are you craving right now?

Saturday

7. What was the last thing you cried about?

Stuff that has been stressing me out

8. When you buy something and your change is a penny. Do you keep it or tell them to keep the change?

If they have the take a penny/give a penny box it goes there. Otherwise in my penny jar or in the car door pocket

9. What color is your tissue box?

grey

10. Do you have a ceiling fan in your room, and if so, is there dust on that fan?

No but if I did then yes.

11. What is the last voicemail you received about?

The whereabouts of my parents.

12. Scariest thing you've experienced in the last year?

Last year was good so I can't remember

13. What do you order when you go to Taco Bell?

I don't eat there since I never feel good afterwards

14.Have you ever had a garage sale?

No I usually donate my junk to goodwill or the civic council

15. When was the last alcoholic beverage you had?

A Mike's. can't recall the flavor

16.Are you happy right now?

about what? umm somethings and somethings not

17. Who came over last?

Hagan

18. Do you miss anybody right now?

Lots and lots. Why is everyone moving?

19. Dark or light jeans?

either

20. What was the last movie you watched at home?

Cranford. Awesome BBC show. Go rent it!!!

21. What is in your pocket?

Keys

22. Who introduced you to your [significant other]?

Do I have one of these????

23. Where do you hurt?

lower back.

24. What is your favorite aisle at Wal-Mart?

check out

25. When is your birthday?

April 12

26. What are you going to do after this?

relax, knit

27. What is your favorite dessert?

mmmm dessert. Most are good.

28. Do you have the same name as one of your relatives?

Yes.

29.Is someone in love with you?

Maybe. If they are they are keeping it to themselves.

30. Has anyone ever mistaken you for a family member?

Yes but mostly on the phone

31. Does someone like you right now?

Yes I have lots of good friends

32. Do you know anyone in jail/prison?

No they would have called for bail by now

33. Do you like the color green?

Yes I look good in green and its nice on the trees too

34. Do you think someone is thinking about you right now?

I suppose its possible

blah week

Meh I feel about as blah as the weather.

I did manage to get into see my bone cracker yesterday. Much better but still a bit sore.

Memorial Day weekend didn't see a lot of action. Mostly putzed around the apato and did a few chores. Finished reading all the manga Nailz loaned me.

Hagan and I went to see Dr. Jones Friday night. I had no expectations and I think that helped. It was amusing in parts but mostly hokey. Not sure about the plot. Lucas and Spielberg really need to stop getting their ideas from the History Channel.

Things are boring so here is a fun meme.

1. Think of the first word that comes to mind when you think of me.

2. Go to Google Images and search for that word.

3. Reply to this post with one of the pictures on the first page of results (don't tell me the word).

4. Put this in your own journal so that I can do the same.

Photoblogging: lilacs

Lilacs blooms never last long so I thought I would get a few pictures. I wish I could upload their smell. So nice.

Quest

Quest was a lot of fun and relaxing. I haven't been for ages due to some reason or another but when Kolbrunna asked I wanted to go out with her and Clare and share a cabin who could say no.

Thursday I took off from work. I had thought that maybe we would leave that day but Kol and Clare were leaving Canada at noon Thursday so I knew we wouldn't get out to the hills until Friday. I thought about working that day but then an extra day off from work is always good. I spent most of the day getting ready and doing some housekeeping so that my apato was somewhat presentable for guests. Company didn't arrive until 11pm. We sat up for awhile watching movies and visiting. Finally went to bed around 1ish.

Friday we got loaded up and headed out. The trip was pretty uneventful except for it being rather windy. Somewhere along the line we realized that no one had brought directions to site. None of us had been to Nemo before but I had a pretty good idea where it was at and we had a map. I put my navigation skillz to use and we managed to make it there without any wrong turns. We did get a bit discouraged on Nemo Rd but the SCA sign was a happy site. We found our cabin and got settled in with the help of our neighbors. Thanks Edwin, Toramasa and Ralph and anyone else who helped carry our stuff upstairs. Not long after that we headed back into town with Toramasa and Una for supper and groceries. Supper was good but the service was not. It took forever! So we didn't get back to site until after 10. The rest of the evening was spent visiting and wandering around camp.

Saturday morning we got up fairly early. The cabins were very nice but they sure could use some decent curtains. It was very bright way too early. Most of the morning was spent in a sewing circle while watching the fighting. Ianuk came by and had me pick out some beads she had made. Thanks for the beads!

Around noon Aethelflaed and I poked around the merchants and then to the store to make a call and get ice cream. Ice cream made me hungry for lunch so we all headed back to the cabin for sannys and quality porch sitting. Most of the afternoon was spent on the porch or wandering around finding shade. We could watch some of the fencing from our balcony. Late afternoon I took a little nap and then before you knew it was time for court. Court was was fun and full of laughter. After Court finally caught up with Super Dave. Kol and I had a nice chat with him over some yummy cookies he had got in Rapid. I would like to find that bakery. We tried to convince him to go to supper with us at the restaurant on site but he didn't go. We ended up eating with Foacault instead. Dinner was very good and wished we had eaten there Friday night.

During the day I had told Fiona she should come down and we could have a bardic circle at the fire ring in front of the cabin so when we got back there were a bunch of people there including Fiona. We had a bunch of singing, some excellent stories from Thora and His Majesty of Artimesia. Kol made pie and Eithni made her fabo bread. I think every bardic circle needs baked goods. HRM Lars came by a little later and Svien lead everyone in a hilarious version of Seven Drunken nights. Everyone was rolling. Much more silliness was had before I decided it was too cold to sit outside anymore.

Sunday morning we leisurely packed up and headed out. Kol and Clare wanted to stop at Wall Drug. I am never too excited to stop there but decided it would be okay. We didn't spend too much time poking around. We did get lunch and a few fun pictures in the backyard. Clare got some fudge and then back on the road. We made it back to Vermillion around 7. Called Hagan to see if he was home and wanted to go eat with us. Apparently good Mexican is not available in Canada so when I mention going to Mexico Viejo we needed to think no further. Dinner was good as per usual and then we went to see Prince Caspian. Having never read the book, I had no expectations but I thought it was good.

I didn't have to work on Monday which was good since I was quite wiped out. Went to breakfast with Kol and Clare and then they hit the road. They had serious shopping to do in Fargo so they needed to hit the road. I managed to get my laundry done before the rest of the day was claimed by napping on the couch.

Photoblogging: necklaces

Back of the pendant. It says: Now Northshield Knows Eilis. This is one of my most favorite gifts.



Svien made the wire weave chain for my rose pendant. The chain is sterling silver.

Monday

The weekend was good. Phil's hooding ceremony was just the right length considering it was outside and kind of chilly. I got there a bit late and all the chairs were full. Fortunately it pays to have your own camp chair in the car. Congrats to Phil on his graduating Law School. Now all he has to do is pass the bar.

Saturday was wet and cold and I didn't have a lot of plans. Worked on some projects at home. I finished the edges of my caftan coat that Deva put together for me. I think it looks okay. Still not sure about the neck but I can always go back and fix it later. Its wearable and thats all that matters. Also beaded a necklace with the pendant that Fina and Tarrach gave me at coronation. I meant to take pictures to get opinions but didn't get that done. Maybe this week.

Saturday night ended up going to Wimps for supper with Phil, his parents and Hagan. Phil need to borrow my vacuum before he moved out of his apato so after that was done we all went out to eat.

Sunday I went home for Mother's day. My mom liked the miniature roses I got her. Brunch was good. We had egg bake and yummy fruit pizza. Around 4, I headed to Kaia's for her and Rachel's party. Nothing too exciting there but it was nice to hang out and visit with everyone. We got in some quality porch time. Tara had brought Erik the Viking since last time she visited I had said I had never seen it. Highly amusing.

Happy Friday

Yesterday I realized that my driver's license had expired. Gah! In all the documentation they say it expires on your birthday and after that you have to take the written test to get it renewed. Blast. I haven't taken the test since I was 14. I figured I had better read the manual so I would pass. Got to the DMV this morning and didn't have to take the test. They have a secret 30 day grace period. Thank goodness I noticed it this week. Next week I would have been SOL.

I am glad to have that done. I also put my tags on my car since I was thinking about that stuff. Last thing I need is to be pulled over for expired car tags.

This weekend is looking fairly busy. Hagan's squire Katsumoto is graduating from Law School and is having his hooding ceremony tonight. Should go since he asked me to be there. Kaia and Rachel are graduating this weekend. They party is on Sunday afternoon. Doesn't seem that long ago that they were young girls we used to drag along to events and scold them if they didn't quit arguing in the car we would leave them along side the road. Now they are both graduating from college. Where does the time go.

Jessica sent me this cartoon. This is the "real" reason I am not going to Wisconsin this weekend. ;-P

Did you know you can send your name to the moon? How cool is that.

Have a good weekend everyone and good luck to everyone competing at Crown!

Crown

Sadly I won't be going to Crown this weekend. I would like to go but some of The Aunts are here for a visit and my mom is planning a mothers day brunch thingy for Sunday. It probably for the best. This week has been extra stressful with finals, library Dean Candidates visiting and my big work project that needs to be done by July 1. There just isn't enough time for everything. Bugger too since it will probably be a good one.

Cinco de Mayo

I had the ultimate lazy weekend. Friday night Hagan, Kaia, Phil and I went out to dinner. The boys talked about going to see Iron Man at 9ish but I really didn't want to go on opening night. Everyone in town goes to the movies on Friday night. Plus it was raining so I knew it was going to be packed. I much prefer going when I don't have to pretend to be a sardine. Besides Dr. Who looked really good.
Got home and got a desperate call from Sarah H. Her Berimbau came in and she needed help stringing it. Sarah is really into foreign instruments. Anyway asked if she came over if I would help. For some crazy reason she thinks I am extra strong. Reality not so much. Just because I was able to shelve Archival boxes above my head doesn't mean I am overly strong but I was willing to give it a go. She came over with her daughter and we all pulled on the damn thing. Too bad we didn't get it on video would have been pretty funny. We got it strung but not very well. Gah my hands hurt after that.

Dr Who was awesome. Always remember to bring your water gun along while fighting off lava based aliens.

For the first time in ages I slept in past 8 on a Saturday. There have been a few weekends I have been home but my body seems to want to get out of bed by eight. How annoying. Anywho, slept in and bummed most of the day. Only constructive thing I did was write checks for bills and get them posted. Did nothing but watch anime and movies. So nice.

Sunday night I went to see Iron Man. Very cool and I will probably see it again. Robert Downey Jr. is a super hottie in this movie. It makes me want to watch Kiss Kiss Bang Bang again. If you haven't seen that one, its a must see!

Happy Cinco de Mayo! It would be a good day to sit on the porch and have a beer. If one had said porch and said beer. Beer problem, easily solved. Porch might have to bug Kaia. hmmm.

Facebook

Some days Facebook is cool and some days it really sucks and makes me mad. Just like this guy

Thursday's musings

Its been an interesting week. Tuesday I went with Hagan, Katsumoto, and Kaia to fighter practice in Sioux Falls. It was fun to see everyone and hang out but I wish it would warm up. Its still so chilly. I was very glad to bring along my windbreaker. I will need to finish my caftan coat and maybe make a hood for Quest if its going to keep up like this.

We got home rather late and when I was pulling into my parking spot I noticed the van was tilting to the right. Sure enough flat tire. Bugger. It was after 11 so decided to deal with it on Wednesday. In the morning, not only was the front right tire flat but the back one too. Gah. Arranged to get tires fixed. Turns out that it was a thin shard of metal. My dad seemed to think it fell off my hubcap and then go on to puncture both tires. I am hoping this is a fluke freaky one time thing and will not be happening again. I was worried I had driven over some nails. There is a ton of construction going on in town and it wouldn't have surprised me if it had been that.

This morning around 3:30, I got woken up by fire sirens. They sounded awfully close so I went outside to see where they were at. About 3 houses down on the opposite side of the street had smoking coming from their backyard. Turns out the garage was on fire.

Classes are winding down on campus. Everyone is busy scrambling to get everything done. I am looking forward to the quiet days of summer.

Green Jenny recently came across the Haiku that were written for me at the Otsukimi event last fall and sent them to me. Which is cool. I remember being told about them but its nice to have a written copy.

Power: Wasabe!
Generosity and Power
Snow and Spring
Kindness
==
Ellis doombringer
Wrathful like fierce wasabe
Hagan rides the storm
==
Hagan and Ellis
like fiery wasabe
bring both
joy and doom
==
Mighty King Hagan
Fair Queen Ellis
Spells doom
with wasabe
Ker-pow!

Staring at cupboards

Do you ever have days where you look endlessly into the cupboard and fridge but nothing looks or sounds good? Gah I hate that. This is where living with someone else would come in handy. Or maybe not. At least last night I was saved by Kaia who called just in time to ask if I wanted to go to Mexico Viejo. Yes, please.

After dinner, we went back to my apato and watched the film Silk. Erin had recommended it but we both found it quite boring. Of course boring movies need to be mocked and we had a good time doing so.

And that takes us back to Monday

Friday was rather craptacular all the way around and it didn't get much better once I got home. Checked the mail and I am on call for Jury Duty from July thru December. Sigh. It might not be so bad. I have never done it before so I have no idea what to expect. On the good side it is just downtown, I get paid for going and I still get paid at work although I think it comes out of our annual leave. I have to check on that. Anyway it will be interesting. So guess I won't be making any big long range plans. Hopefully I can still go to Gimli on Labor Day.

The best place to be on Friday night was the couch. Ended up talking on phone instead of watching Sarah Jane and Dr Who like I planned but no big deal since I have DVR. We got snow but most of it melted on impact. There was just a trace on the ground Saturday morning and it was melting fast. They had a bit more snow in SF but it was mostly gone by the time I went home in the afternoon.

I brought some empty boxes forKathy so she can pack her stuffu. My caftan fits great and Svienn finished the viking wire weave necklace he made for me. We had lunch at Sczhwans on 41st St. I eventually take all my friends to eat there. I ate there all the time when I was in college and the manager still remembers me. He usually bugs me about moving back to Sioux Falls. Lunch was super tasty. After that we went to Best Buy so Kathy could buy accessories for her new camera. I bought an car adapter so I can listen to my mp3 player on trips.

Around 4, I headed home. Took a little nap after I got home and then got ready to go to the Argo for supper. The place was packed due to Prom but thankfully we had called ahead. I had the best steak I have ever had. It was melt in your mouth good. mmmmm. We got home rather late but I wasn't tired so ended up watching Reign over Me. I usually don't like Adam Sandler but this movie was good. He looks much better with a Bob Dylan haircut than his usual style.

Sunday I got my naps in between loads of laundry. I watched some of Carrier on PBS. Its kind of interesting. Not sure if I will be watching any future episodes.

weekend is here

So I hadn't planned to do anything this weekend except be super lazy. Yeah those plans that got blown out of the water. Oh well. I get to spend time with people I like so its all good. I still get to sleep in and then drive to Sioux Falls to meet up with Deva and Svienn for lunch and then do a fitting for the caftan she is making for me. In the evening a bunch of us are going to the Argo Hotel to celebrate the end of our reign. It should be good times as long as Hagan gets his prime rib. Not sure who all will be going with us this trip. We will probably go again next week since Rachel and Jessica will be home then.

Its another wet and cold day today. Looks like it will be that way all weekend. I am hoping for no snow.

The Forbidden Kingdom

On the way home from Coronation, we stopped in Soo foo to see The Forbidden Kingdom. Go see if only to see the fight scenes between Jackie Chan and Jet Li. That and Jet Li as the Monkey King. Awesome. I enjoyed it but probably would have enjoyed it more if I hadn't been so tired. There were a few times I nodded off during the talky talky bits. Maybe if it comes to town, I will catch it again.

Mission status...success!

The last hurrah was this weekend. Had a pretty good trip up to Northfield. I ditched out of work early since I had a few errands to run in Sioux Falls and I also wanted to get there at a decent time. The weather was good until about Fairmont and then it got wet and cold. I was nice to to get off I35 before I hit the cities. The hotel was easy to find and it wasn't too long before Nailz, Rue, Mouse, Lu and Hrothgar showed up. Hagan and the squires showed up around 10. Nailz wanted dinner but I didn't have any desire to go out again so we ordered pizza instead.

Morning came and we headed off to site. Nice to have it about 5 minutes away. Got to see the new backs for the larger thrones. They are super gorgeous. Last court went pretty good. I like the blue sky background we had.


Roisin's knighting was a definite high light of our court. It sure surprised a lot of people when Hagan got to cut Roisin's hair. It was quite a gasp. For those of you who wondered, I also cut my queenly hair. I hadn't cut it during the time since becoming princess and I gave it to my champion as a keepsake.

Court got over and the rest of the day was spent just relaxing and visiting. Nice to be a free agent again. I spent all my day visiting and just hanging out. Good times.

Felt a little strange being done with it all. Happy, somewhat sad but mostly glad. Its kind of like at the end of a long trip you still feel like you are moving. For the most part I think we had a successful reign considering we were newbies to the whole experience. Many people came up to me during the day to thank me and to tell me not to be a stranger. I am not sure what my summer plans are but I will be around.

The end of an age

The end is near! Fear the end of the seventh age!!!!

Not really. Well really but not the fear part. Step down is this weekend and I think I am ready. All the regalia and most of my stuff is read to g-o. Garb has been decided on and just needs to be packed.

My apato looks a hundred times better. Amazing what happens when you are sick and uncaring if things get put away. I spent most of Monday and Tuesday organizing SCA stuff and putting stuff away. Yay no more banging knees on rubbermaids! Next weekend I plan on doing some spring cleaning that is screaming to be done. It will be a good time to sort through stuff.

I am looking forward to this weekend. Should be a good time. Can't wait to see everyone!



Check out these nice flowers my boss gave me for my birthday!!! I love daisies.

Beck MCC

I just finished watching Beck. Pretty good series. Here's my favorite song. Greg Ayres Rocks!!

Birthday Weekend and Provost Challenge

Thanks to everyone who sent me birthday wishes. I had a nice birthday. Friday night Hagan took me out for cheesecake. Phil and Kaia also came along and we had a silly good time at Little Italy. Kaia found the perfect spoon for hanging off her nose.

Saturday morning I got up early and picked up Del and Katsuo in Sioux Falls. The road were pretty good considering that it had been blizzard like the day before. Mostly the roads were were wet. There was considerable amount of snow on the ground between Sioux Falls and Chamberlain. Once you got across the river, not a thing. Crazy spring storms. We got to Pierre around noon. As soon as I was dressed, they brought out the cake and sang happy birthday to me. It was a relaxing event just watching the fencing and visiting with everyone. Court was short and sweet. My last solo court. After court a lot of people left but Katsuo wanted to get some fencing in so we hung out until everyone was ready to go eat. Almost everyone who was still there ended up going to Guadalajara's for supper. Yay Mexican feast. Rachel, Hagan and Andrew have talked about Guadalahoohoo's (thats what they call it) for ages so it was nice to finally go there. Dinner was fun and I got birthday desert and sang to. Thanks a lot Bron! :-P It wasn't so bad but the unceremonious sombrero plonking on the head was a bit of a surprise. We headed home after that and Katsuo was nice enough to drive. I was dead tired.

Sunday I went home to have birthday dinner with the parents.

So a little less than a week left before the end of our reign. Seems unreal that it is almost over but good too. It will be nice to have a few more free weekends.

Thursday's child has far to go

I think I am feeling better. Either that or I have given up thinking about it and just let things run its course. (Second option is the right answer) Although I am thinking about getting one of those neti pots. They look...interesting. Not to worry about grossing me out. My curiosity usually overrides my gross out factor. Makes sense tho. I think my mom got something similar for her sinuses.

Can't say anything interesting is going on. Trying to wind up reign stuff. Few things left to do but mostly downhill from here. Mostly I need to organize things at home. Did a little bit of that on Monday. Figure if I tackle one pile at a time eventually my apato will go back to normal. Maybe.

Saturday I am planning on traveling to Pierre for Provost Challenge. If the weather will cooperate, that is. If we don't go maybe I will have to convince people to go to Mona Lisi for my birthday.

Just say no to drugs

This weekend I had adverse reactions to the prednisone and it knocked most of any fun out of me. So chock up another drug that doesn't do me any good. The real pain is that it didn't clear up my ears like it was suppose to. Bleh. I am done taking drugs for now so I am hoping that everything will clear up on its own. I hope. I am ready to get off this merry-go-round.

Anywho B&V was pretty good even though I felt out of it. People got lots of projects done and seemed to have a good time visiting. We had brats and ham and they were tasty. I have a few pictures posted on Flickr.

Mega Tired

I have been mega tired the last few days. I think I will blame the meds I am taking and my body needing sleep to repair itself. Last night I got home from work and just crashed until it was time to go to the SCA meeting.

B&V is tomorrow but I plan on sleeping in and getting there when I am ready. Whatever time that might be. Basically its a workshop day so no need for garb or any of that. Still might be early since it seems like normal wake up time on the weekends is 8am. It will be nice to be leisurely anyway. I have a few things I want to work on but nothing that will take up the whole day. At least I hope not. I am sure it will be a fun day but right now do nothing sounds better.

Next weekend I will be heading off to Pierre for Provost Challenge to celebrate my birthday. Only 8 days to go.

Back to the Dr

Last night I went back to the doctor to see why my ears were still plugged. It confirmed my suspicions that my eustation tubes were filled with fluid and I would need another round of drugs. Meh. You would think the giant pills they gave me last round would have kicked it to the curb but no. So another week antibiotics and some prednisone to clear up the ears. Hopefully this will be the end of it.

April Fools?

Hagan told me that the snow is an elaborate April Fools day prank. Seems like the joke is on us. Spring seems very elusive.

So the countdown is on. Only 12 more days until the B-day and 19 until we step down.

Ides of March

Saturday we got up way to early and headed for Huron. We had a good trip up. At least the wind was blowing in the right direction. On the way home we were not so lucky. The day was relaxing and most of the day was spent visiting and watching fighting. I ordered some linen from Berenice for summer garb.

Before the finals of the heavy weapons tourney, they had an duck battle. Kristen had given me two bags of duckies. They were placed out on the floor and the fighters had to pick up as many ducks as they could and then fight. When they died, they gave up their ducks. It was lots of fun to watch.

Feast was various dishes from Andalucia. It was fantastic. Linnette out did herself. Everything was very good but I think I had too much matzah ball soup (very yummy) and got full by the time of the second remove.

Pictures of the event are posted on my flickr page.

How cool is this?

Anybody recognize these people? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:NorthshieldHromnice2008.JPG

Life underwater

I am feeling somewhat better. The mucus has subsided and the conjunctivitis has disappeared totally. Sadly my sinus are still painful and my ears are still blocked or something. I am thinking of going back to the doctor to see whats up. In the meantime I have a hard time hearing unless people are close by. At work people tend to stand in my doorway and talk to me but most of the time it sounds like Charlie Brown's teacher. Lots of sound but it all a bunch of mumblings to me people!! Needless to say it has driven me a little nuts. Now I know how my dad felt before he got tube put in his ears. I really need to work on that personal subtitling device. Would be handy right now.

This weekend is Ides of March in Huron. Hopefully it should be a good time. I haven't been to it for a couple of years due to Easter holidays and last year I went to Anime Detour.

What you missed because you didn't go to Gulf Wars

The plague confirmed

I went to doctor Friday afternoon. Whatever I contracted moved into my ears and I thought I better have it checked out. I got to see the new PA who is very nice. She is much nicer than the other goob, Dr. Y. She looked me over and said ooooh nooo when she got to my ears. Infection city. Not only that I was starting to have conjunctivitis (pink eye). Yuck. I got a ton of meds including some giant antibiotics. I am starting to feel better but I think it is going to take a while.

In other sad news, the China Buffet burned down last Wednesday. I have a bad feeling that they won't be rebuilding.

Gulf Wars

Gulf Wars was a blast. I wish it was closer to home. The drive is a bit much but considering all the travel we have been doing this year it didn't seem that bad. I now consider a 5 hour drive short.

On March 9, Svienn, Deva, Linnette, Katsuo, Delphina, Mortin, and Hagan converged at my apato parking lot and loaded up. We had a lot of stuff to fit into two vehicles but Hagan and Mortin are very good at that so we thew our stuff at them and let them at it. It was about 20 degrees so we were ready to head to warmer climes. We finally got going around noon. The first day's drive was rather uneventful. We had supper in Columbia, MO and then traveled on to Cape Geradeau.

Linnette, Svienn, Deva and I were stopping for the night while the rest drove on. We had no desire to carry on since we had plenty of time to get there. Deva was pretty stoked to stop in Memphis. We figured we could make it there by lunch hang out a bit. We determined that Graceland wasn't too far off the interstate and maybe they would have some cool bbq place we could eat at. Not so much. Elvis Presley Blvd has tons of China Buffets but only one bbq place that we could see and at the time it was closed. We decided on the 50's diner that was next to Graceland Parking. The food was good but greasy (we would all be feeling it later). Deva got to try fried pickles, bought her souvenirs and actually got to do some "Walking in Memphis". Then they decided to walk up the street to take pictures. I didn't go since I figured alone time would be a premium on this trip and we had already driven past it twice. That was good enough for me. Elvis is cool and all but I am not crazy about tourist traps. After all the walkin in Memphis we headed down the road. Jackson was a bit nutty to drive in but we go there during rush hour. Not fun. We trucked it on down the road and made it to site around 8:30.

Troll was pretty easy after they figured out I was the Queen of Northshield. I tried to tell the guy who was helping me but he ran away before I could tell him. He came back a bit later and said he couldn't find it. I told him I was the Queen and that made a big difference. ;-) We met up with our people who lead us to the cabin. The cabin was pretty basic. Just beds in a large open room. We did have a couch, not very comfortable, but better than nothing. Shava, Giles, and Raito were already there with the rest of our crew.

Monday night it rained and I had a hard time getting to sleep. It was the rain not the snoring. In the morning there were all sorts of puddles and mud spots but they cleared up quickly. Got to love sugar sand. We went to breakfast and I was introduced to the Dinning Hall. For 60 dollars you can get 9 meals. Pretty good deal and convenient for the busy person at war.

Tuesday a bunch of people went to New Orleans. I had planned to go to but the thought of getting in the car just wasn't appealing. Hang out on site and having a relaxing day before the start of war sounded much better. Spent most of the day looking around, visiting, watching fighting on the main battlefield and doing a little shopping. I got new shoes!

Tuesday night we were suppose to meet with our horses. We walked down to the horse arena but Hagan's horse wouldn't be there until tomorrow so bummer to that. After that we went to supper and then the Gleann Abhann Social. We got to meet some of our Royal Cousins and chat a bit. We got there late and didn't stay long. Mateo was preforming at the Green Dragon Inn and we all wanted to go to that. The inn is a super cool place. I think I could have hung out there all war. By the time Mateo started to sing it seemed like most of the Northshielder's were there. Good times.

Wednesday morning came early and we down to the horse arena fairly early. Then we pretty much waited and waited and waited. Thankfully there were lots of people to talk to kill time. I spent most of my time talking to TRH Brenwen and Konrad of the East. After what seemed an age, everyone was finally mounted up. The order of the procession goes in order of age of Kingdom so Northshield is last. I had told Hagan before we went that I wasn't going to ride any horse so they arranged a cart for me. Much better. It probably would have been okay but I am not crazy about horses so it was just as well. The procession was fun and how can you beat everyone cheering DOOM at you after you have been announced. So cool. The Princess of Trimaris told me Queen of Doom was a super cool title. ;-)

The Diamond Tourney, started not long after the opening ceremonies. Count Raito and Don Micheal fought for Northshield. No pressure since Northshield had won the tourney every year except one. It the fights were exciting and a bit tense but we won. They won super awesome chairs. After that I went down to the battle field and watched a bit. That afternoon they had a party down at the Green Dragon for all the Roses. We got massages, goodies and margaritas. Very nice. By evening I was beat so I went to bed early.

Thursday was the Rose Tourney. Don Gauge and Edward of Kent fought for me. There were tons of fighters entered in that one. It was fun too. They had breakfast and more mimosas (we had them at the diamond tourney too). My fighters lost. But as a consolation they took me down to the place where they deep fry bacon. I now what the fuss is about. Trimaris had their luncheon before the big battle. That was awesome. Hagan is still talking about that cheesecake.
Later that afternoon we held court and then after was another rose tourney. I entered Svienn in it. Sadly he didn't make it past the first round. Later that evening was the Royal reception. That was fun although they had most people sitting on the floor so that made mingling more difficult. After that go over we headed back to camp. Duncan and crew hosted a Black and Gold party in the cabin court yard. The drinks were gold and black. Most of the people I talk to said the gold was better although if you mixed them the black wasn't too bad.

Friday morning it looked like rain but it held off until after the champions tourney. That was fun. Everyone sat around in a big circle at watched. The fighting was very good. Zig's bout was awesome. I wish someone would have got it on video. The pictures are not quiet the same. Trimaris won the tourney. Before everyone could leave we called a court to put Roisin on vigil.

Friday afternoon was the big rapier ravine battle. I hadn't been there on Monday when the heavy weapons fought it. That started really late but I was invited to sit with the Calontiri. They were having mint juleps and jambalaya on their "veranda" (they camp right next to the ravine.) I enjoyed watching it and our people did very well. Our allies, not so much. Our side lost by a point.

It had gotten really hot that day so by the time the battle got over and we ate dinner I was pretty wiped out. I would have like to have gone to bed but we were having the vigil in the court yard that night. I took a shower and that helped a bunch. The vigil was nice and there were lots of people there.

Saturday we headed out. Took awhile to get loaded up since we had got a bunch more stuff than we had brought with us. We got it all in and left site. The trip home was good for the most part. We got home late Sunday afternoon.

Gulf Wars was very fun. I wouldn't mind going back someday. Site doesn't seem so big, at least the main areas of action are close together. The shower house wasn't as nearly bad as the stories we heard but I am thinking they took extra good care of them this year. The weather is so nice down there especially after the super miserable winter we have had. I would almost like to move to Mississippi except I would have to find a summer house somewhere else, like Seattle.
The only sad news is that winter is not over here and it snowed the day after we got home. I think winter is going to give spring a miss and go straight into summer.

Back from war

We made it back from war. Gulf Wars was awesome and when things slow down a little bit, I will blog about it. Since getting back I have been busy catching up with my life and dealing with the cold/sinus infection that descended upon me Monday night. Bleh. Not surprising since about half of the people that went with us from Northshield were sick or got sick while we were there. Now it seems the rest of us are sick. I have meds now so hopefully it will get kicked to the curb real soon.

Gulf Wars - its on

The countdown continues. We won't be leaving until Sunday morning so Saturday will be spent washing clothes, finishing packing, making sure I have everything and then loading up the vehicles. I am hoping we have a good trip down.

Take care and I am sure I will have lots to say when I get back.

Ready for vacation

I am quiet ready to head down south for Gulf Wars. I am fed up with winter and I am ready to leave it behind. I was hoping it would be spring like this week but winter will just not bugger off.

Its been kind of a slow week despite having to fill in for my co-worker who is taking her vacation this week.

Better news is that Eddie Izzard is going on Tour this summer. He will be in the Cities around Memorial Day. Any one interested in getting tickets?

Officers Day

Friday I ditched out of work early so I could get on the road. Trip up was very good and I was glad to get to Nailz's apato at a decent hour. We chit chated about her recent trip to Japan and I got to see some her ill gotten gains. Fun stuff. Nailz and Clare plan to blog about their adventures so look for updates on their blogs.

We stayed up late so morning came quickly. We got the kids settled for the day (Murphy the cat and Mr. Yuki the dog) and headed out. We got there a little bit after classes had started and got settled in. Ia brought my county coronet and I am very happy with it. I need to put some padding in it and it should be good to go! I also got a nice perudo set from Anplica. We should be covered at Gulf Wars if and when it rains.

My session on what its like to be royalty was at 10:30 and I though it went well. There were many good questions. I felt pretty good about it. After that a bunch of us went to lunch at Green Mill.

After lunch we went to the early period garb class taught by Fina, Tarrach and Mairghread. Its always fun to hear them talk about early personas. The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing and then we had a practice court for some of the new heralds. I had brought awards along that had already been read into court but still needed to be presented. Ysolt thought it might be good to give new heralds some practice. That went well except that most of the people getting awards were not there. :-(

We headed back to the Cities and then went out to dinner at the House of Wong and then back to the apato to play Guitar Hero. We also watched the first episode of the latest anime series Nailz is watching. Kinda strange. I wasn't sold after the first episode.

Sunday I headed home after breakfast. The weather forecast was kind of iffy so I wanted to get home before dark. 35 was good for a change but 90 was foggy, then rainy and then super windy. I was glad to turn south to finally have the wind at my back instead of fighting it.

This week will be busy getting ready for Gulf Wars. Thankfully we have had lots of help with gifts and tokens. That stuff should be set. Now I just need to get my stuff organized and packed.

Fun survey

I got this in an email from Daria. Feel free to post your answers in the comments.

Okay, this one is different - this is funny. YOU fill in the blanks about ME and send it back to ME. But FIRST send a blank one out to all your friends, including me, so we can return the favor to you. Be honest. They're really SCARY to get back. It only takes a few minutes, so just do it! First send (forward) this survey to everyone you know to see how well he or she knows you. Second, hit 'reply' and fill this survey out about the person who sent it to you and send it back to them.


Where did we meet:

Take a stab at my middle name:

Do I smoke:

Color of my eyes:

Do I have any siblings:

What's one of my favorite things to do:

What's my favorite type of music:

Am I shy or outgoing:

Am I a rebel or do I follow the rules:

Any special talents:

How many children do I have:

If you and I were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing that I would bring:

La Vie En Rose

I watched the film La Vie En Rose last night. It is a bio-flick of Edith Piaf. I adore Edith Piaf. Its a good movie although if you don't know much about her it might be somewhat hard to follow.

The begining of the end

I sent off our last Northwatch letter today. Hurrah! It will feel strange next month not to have to write one but a relief too since we tend to horribly procrastinate when it comes to writing it.

I am still not in the frame of mind that we will be leaving for Gulf Wars in 10 days. Thankfully I have enough clothes so i don't have to be all antsy about that. God bless all the people who have made clothes for me. They r4wk! I don't mind sewing but it tends to send levels to crab factor 10 +. I think the only sewing I will need to do is to make a new back for one of my camp chairs.

The Weather that wasn't

This weekend we had a little taste of spring. Sadly it was interrupted by talks of freezing rain and more snow. In the end it turned out to be not much of anything. I think it might have snowed an inch today but not more than that. I am uber ready to put the snow boots away and enjoy spring. My deepest wish is when we come back from Mississippi all the snow will be gone.

I did hardly anything this weekend. It seems like if I get any little bit of time off I tend to waste it. On one hand I probably need the break but there is still plenty to do before we get off the royalty train.

Most of the weekend was spent catching up on Torchwood and watching award shows. I have seen hardly any of the movies nominated for awards. Many looked good so I have a big list of movies I want to see. Maybe this week I will have time to go downtown and see No Country for Old Men.

General Mailase Disarray

Last night on the reunion show for Project Runway season 4 they asked the designers what their wrestling name would be. Some were pretty funny. I would like to be General Mailase Disarray. Pretty much describes the state of being in my apato. Ugg so need to organize and get things ready for Gulf Wars. Which will probably happen this weekend since it is my weekend off from traveling.

Nailz should be coming home this week. I can't wait to see her pictures and hear all about Japan.

Jessica finally has a blog now. She also posted the lists we made for her at her going away party.

Lupercalia

This weekend I went to Lupercalia for the first time. I also got to spend some time with Mouse and Rue. They have been pretty busy with the kids (Tristian plays hockey) so they haven't been able to travel to events as much as they would have liked. Since they live about half way between Vermillion and Nicollet I thought it would be fun to stay with them and then take them along to the event.

Friday I finished running errands that I hadn't planned on but needed to be done before I finally got on the road. Usually on event trips we blaze on past Adrian and might wave in the direction of Hannan house but this time it was the end of the road. Hurrah!

Saturday we got up early and took off for Nicollet. We made it in good time and got everything in and set up. Lots of people were there already. Storm had a dart throw to raise money for the royal travel fund. The bunny bucshkazi was fun to watch, the fighters were really getting into it, although a bit dangerous to be too close. After that I was invited to play perudo or liar's dice with a big group of people. That was fun. I was the second person to go out but I really wasn't in it to win.

There was a lot of buzz about the Nicollet Meat Market that was around the corner. Everyone said I needed to go and take a look. Late in the afternoon, Mouse and I finally took the walk over and it was a pretty cool place. You don't see to many local butcher shops anymore. We ended up getting some of their tasty beef sticks.

Feast was very wonderful and lots of silliness was had. I hope I have a chance to get to the event again.

Sunday we were all pretty lazy and enjoyed a huge brunch. I was in no hurry to go home since I had Monday off so we all relaxed and watched movies. Late afternoon I decided it was time to head home. I wish I would have checked the road conditions before I left. I-90 was almost all ice. It was a bit scary and I passed about 4 cars in the ditch. There were two heart in the throat moments but I managed to avoid close encounters with the ditch kind. After I hit SD, roads were much better thanks to all the hills and valleys near Brandon. I-29 was better but after white knuckling it for 40 miles I figured I would take it easy on the way home. There were a few slippery spots but nothing too bad. I was very glad to be home and not have to go anywhere Monday.

Hertzkrieg

Hertzkrieg was last Saturday and we had a good time. Not a whole lot of people came but I think that was due to the weather being rather crappy. It was super windy and very cold.

I think everyone had a good time. They seemed to. Didn't do a whole lot except watch the fighting, play with the little kids and visit. After the tourney got started I snuck home to get the scrolls Astrid sent me. I had hoped that no one would miss me but Hagan made the combatants bow to the crown and I wasn't there. Mission status...failed.

Court was fun and we got to do some silly shtick and slap people with the fish Fiona had made for me.

Feast was super delicious and had all of the favorites. Of course it helped that Tom asked what we wanted to eat.

Land of the rising sun

I have received intelligence that Nailz and Clare have safely landed in Japan. Now they are on to the daunting task of figuring our the rail system. I have no doubts they will have wicked good time with plenty of misadventures.

Dakota Life (on SDPB) is showing a segment on this year's Cecil's Siege. Baron Tom said it was on last night but its on again tonight at 9:30. Hopefully I can catch it this time.

Hertzkrieg is tomorrow and I am looking forward to my short commute. It should be lots of fun.

Me and my Champion

Svienn and I had a very good trip to the Land of Wis and back. It was a nice change to only have to two people go on a trip and not have to worry about bending space and time to get everything in the vehicle. We happily threw our stuff in and took off. There was some blowing snow on the way up but not too bad and we made it to Eau Claire around 8pm. We called Wyndreth to let her know we made it and got invited over for soup. Neither of us know Eau Claire very well but we managed to make it over to her house eventually. Only 2 wrong turns. ;-P

Saturday we made our way to Chippewa Falls which was a little adventure since I had printed out directions from site to our hotel and not the other way around but we made it in a good amount of time. Nailz was a little late showing up but she made it. I am glad she could come. She is leaving for Japan on Wednesday for two weeks.

On the whole it was a nice relaxing event. Site was in a lovely old building over looking the city and the river. Feast was rather long but very tasty. I was utterly defeated by the amount of food. Despite being super full Nailz and I snagged some extra desert before we left. We got back to the hotel and just crashed. Sveinn headed back to Wyndreth's to spend sometime with his household.

Sunday we were lazy and got up late before heading over to Wyndreth's to pick up Sveinn. They usually have a big after event breakfast so we got in on that before heading home.

On the way back home we stopped at IKEA to pick up a few things and to poke around. We followed all the blue arrows so we got to see it all. Thankfully I had decided before we went that I was going to buy nothing and only look. Which worked out well. I only managed to get one bottle with a stopper.

The trip home was off and on foggy so that was rather crappy but we still made it home in a reasonable time.

As per usual, I have my photos posted on my flickr page.

Going across the cheese curtain

Tomorrow I leave for the lands of Wisconsin for an event. It will be good to get away for a little while. Sorely need some days off from my mundane life. yeesh. If only I could press 6 for a ninja attack. hmmm or was it 4. Can't remember.

Anyway this picture is a good description. I miss the days when Nailz used to send me mspaint pictures.

Sebastian Strings X

Saturday was the annual Sebastian Strings archery shoot down at Bowbenders in Elk Point. Thankfully the weather warmed up a bit and it wasn't so cold at the range. It was the usual affair. Shoot, eat, shoot some more, have some ham, visit, repeat. Many balloons and the vicious rabid squirrel met their ends.

Tom and Jen brought Issac so we could meet him.

Check out my pictures on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/blancmange/sets/72157603812033361/

Here are a couple of videos of the rabid squirrel shoot.

New Garb

Yay its friday!! Bring forth the weekend!!! Not a whole lot to say but you can check out my new tunics. They are awesome!!