I'm Evil, thats why.

Siege V

2009-09-21T17:04:00.001-07:00

Thursday after work headed out to site a bit earlier than I had planned. Got a canyou call from the Count. Got the stuff he needed gathered up and I got out the door.
Worked my troll shift which was rather quiet. Off and on busy but no big rushes. My replacement showed up and I decided to head back home. The bugs were out in force and I would have all weekend to catch up with people.
Del and Katsuo called to see if they could come over for a hot shower. Kol showed up about two seconds before they did. We ordered pizza since Kol was hungry. I didn't think I was until I started eating. We got some free molten lava chocolate cakes with our pizza order and they were super tasty.

Katsuo reminded me about the history channel show Holy Grail in America that he and Ajax were in. I set the DVR for Sunday night. If you get the chance to see it, the boys show up around 25 minutes in.

Friday Kol and I went for breakfast at Jones, got groceries and stuff at PRC outlet store (wal-mart). Headed out to site. It was a very nice day. Would have been a bit better if there was a breeze but it was nice to relax and work on projects.
Gave Hagan a bag of little ninjas. He and Roisin planned out battle stratagem with them.
Shadowes Company rocked out the BBQ Friday night. It was great to see Alistair and Kateryn there.

The torchlight tourney in honor of Ian McTawish. Rue had asked me to help run the list. Zahoorie heralded and I think we did okay. Katsuo proved victorious for the third year in a row. After the tourney went down to the Shadowes encampment with Kateryn and hung out there for awhile.
Rue and I were talking about Steve and the Greek. Doesn't that sound like a tv show? Anywho I decided that the boys really need SCA names. Steve showed up at that point so we could ask him what kind of persona he had. He is going for Viking. Svien has been trying to pin Finnbogi on someone for ages so Steve got dubbed Finnbogi. We couldn't think of any greek names at the moment but Kol suggested Lysandros. I think that works. Never did get around to telling Drake his new name. Hung out until super late and I believe it was 3 am when my head hit the pillow.

Saturday morning we had brunch of scones and egg bake at my apato. It was very tasty. Got cleaned up and headed out to site. Heavy weapons were having lots of fun in the corn when we got there.

It was another lovely day. More windy but it was nice to keep the bugs off. Visited with John and Caillie got a huge box of Nutty bars. People were very helpful in eating the nutty bars. :-)

Feast was porktastic. Lots of other good things too. Nailz, Seti and I headed back to the apato early since I was super tired. Guess we missed out on a wild night. I don't feel bad tho since I could hardly keep my eyes open.

Sunday more breakfast at Jones. Waved goodbye to Fiona, Seti and Nailz. It was fun hang out with everyone.

Kol and I hung out until I decided it was time to get the laundry done. Got to try out the new washers at the mat. Worked on glove pattern while we waited.

We ran out to Doris's to get walnuts for dye stuffs and then to the store again to get fixin's for lasagna. mmm it was good.

I took this morning off since I though it would be nice to have an extra day to sleep in. Was a good choice since the weather has turned.

Fall Coronation

2009-09-14T06:44:00.001-07:00

After a super busy short week it was nice to run away again. Del had asked if I would like to head to Fargo early. Normally Friday afternoons are quiet so why not. Of course the universe seems to know when I am leaving early so after ton of phone calls (my phone hardly rings, its all email) I ditched out of work and headed to SF. Made it Delphina's. We loaded stuff into her car and then went over to Szchwan's for lunch. Yum!

The trip up was quick. Funny how a 4.5 hour drive is short. Made it to Toramassa and Una's around 6. Kol pulled up as we did. That was cool. Unloaded stuff and then headed off to Bennigan's for supper. Got introduced to the Wii. Played a few games including rock band. Video games are fun but I am glad I don't have them at home.

Made it site about a half an hour before court. Probably would have been there sooner if we hadn't had to wait for the long train.

I was honored to have a small part of the show, saying what it is to be King and Queen. Hopefully it sounded okay. Thank goodness for cheat sheets and little books to hide said cheat sheets.

Most of the day was spent enjoying the company and the weather. I had brought a project along but it was nice just to be.

The rose ceremony was simple and nice. Duchess Eleanor spoke of what it is to be a rose. Tatiana make a lovely Rose cloak. The Roses welcomed Ailleanne and gave presents.
This is what I gave.

Feast was very tasty. Lots and lots of food. By the third remove I was full. I did save room for applesauce and cookies.

After clean up we headed back to Toramassa's. Nice to put on the pajama pants. More Wil was played but I pooped out early because I could hardly keep my eyes open. Just as well since we had to get up before the crack of dawn. Del had to be back in SF by 11 to go to work. We were able to get up and on the road just before six. I told Del I could drive since she looked wiped out. Drive was good but foggy until we hit Sisseton where it magicly cleared up. I enjoyed driving her new Element. Very comfortable and roomy. Wouldn't mind having one myself.

Made it to SF in plenty of time and I headed on down the highway. Stopped by to see the parents since its kinda on the way home. Haven't seen them if a few weeks. Had lunch. Did laundry and naps. Other chores were accomplished as well.

This week I need to clean and prepare for impending company for Siege. Will be nice not to have to travel and be able to sleep at home.

Oh yeah I got a new Kingdom job...Web minister. Should be fun. Webstuff is fun and it will be similar to what I do in my everyday job so shouldn't be too much of a stretch.

Gimli

2009-09-14T06:43:00.000-07:00

Gah I forgot to post this! Its been a very busy week.

Last Thursday I bolted out of work. Nice to no have to think about it for 4 days. Picked up Svien in SF. We tootled up the highway and made it to Fargo around 11ish.
Eithni and TRM weren't there yet so we hung out at Perkins until they arrived.

Friday we got up late and then poked around downtown Fargo to find somewhere to eat. We ended up eating at the Pita Pit. Good but I have never seen them roll a pita like that before.
Eithni really wanted to go to the Hjemkost center so we played tourist. I never watched the movie about the viking ship last time I was up. LOl crazy 80's style. Don't miss those days.
We had a nice guided tour of the stave church. We looked around for a bit more and then hit the highway.
The boarder crossing wasn't too bad. Bit of a wait and Svien was a little coy about how many beers he had a long. But they let us cross without hinderance. The highways north of Winnipeg had heavy traffic. Everyone heading to the lake for the weekend.
We made it to Gimli about 7. We ate at the Europa, greasy spoon palace. Eithni and I both ordered cheese burgers and thats not really what we got. Burger buired in chili. i couldn't see much cheese. Moutain of fries. I think it was about 4 potatoes worth. It was good but not really what i was after.
Got to site and settled in. Went to war Court then hung out.

Saturday was a beautiful day. Made even better by french toast and snausages. mmmm. It was a nice morning to chill. I had asked Kol to bring her ball winder so I could ball up some skeins I had. Which was good since the yarn was a mess/a bit sticky or both. Took much less time with the winder than it would have done by hand. Now I have to decide what I am going to do with my snape, griffindor, and Irish wool yarn.

Court was lovely. Congrats to HE Doodie and HE Evil Eric!

The bugs were horrid in the evening so the Perudo set was pulled out and more victims were sucked into the fun. Thunderbunny was victorious for both rounds.

Sunday was more of the same. Knitting, enjoying the sunshine, grumbling about bugs, doing the flail to keep them off. I got fed up with them late afternoon and decided it was time for a nap. Huzzah for screened in cabins. After supper I tagged along with Johann and family to get ice cream in town. Such a nice treat!

Monday was the sad day to pack up and leave. The trip home was rather uneventful. We had a super quick stop at the border. Made it home late which made for a sleepy Tuesday.

Previously in the Kingdom of Doom...

2009-08-14T07:17:00.000-07:00

So yeah the slacker blogging continues... Let's see... what's been going down...

John and Red Caillie came down to have supper with Hagan and I at the the end of July. We went to Chae's. We had a lovely supper and I got Irish yarn and an interesting book mark. ;-)

My Gran had her 93rd birthday. We had a big party for her at my cousin's house. Good food and good times. Her house is fabo. Who knew they made screens that can be velcroed around the garage door opening so you can have a impromptu porch. Pretty cool!

I started watching Burn Notice. I love spy shows.

I had talked to Jess and Rue a few weeks about going to Mankato for St. Radegund's Fair. Markov (Phillip) had the weekend off and wanted to go too.

Last Friday Jess and I drove up to Markov and Rue's. As much as I love getting up at 5 am to drive 4 hours, driving half way to Mankato and staying over at friends house is a better option. Rue was doing some sewing so it was a good chance for me to re-hem my white linen under dress and Jess did some more hand sewing on HRH's under dress. After sewing we watched Ken Branagh's Much ado about Nothing. Couldn't believe that they hadn't seen it before! Hit the hay after that.

Saturday we got up around my normal work week and we got ready and headed out. We took the Hannan truck so no extra driving for me. We got to site around 10:30. Its a huge place just a bit south of Mankato. The site is at the end of this tree lined road that is pretty but could be creepy, hell in the winter I bet. Inside jokes about Wisconsin werewolves, vampires and getting killed in the woods easily came to mind.

We got trolled in and then hung out with some of the nordskogenites. They had a nice spot in the shade to sit. You could see archery and fighting. It was quiet humid and people got melty melty if you moved too much. Watched the fighting for a bit but then went back up the hill since the breeze was better. Checked out the A&S exhibits. Lots of nice stuff. Probably would have sat in on the judging but it was nicer to be outside. kathysmurf showed up around 4ish on her way back to CO. Kathy was going to stay over in SF but I told her she could just as well follow me home and stay at my house. An hour closer and we could probably catch up with Hagan on Sunday.

Late afternoon got very hot and miserable. We got out of there around 6. We stopped along the way home to get pizza and then headed back. Kathy wanted to stop by to see Mr. Funk so we did but then we had to deal with construction woes trying to get out of town. Stupid construction. Blocked my escape from SF!!! Curses. Made it out tho and then home to bed.

We had talked to Hagan to see if he wanted to do breakfast. He did. Katsuo and Del came along since they were staying at Hagan's working on stuff over the weekend. We ate and then I headed home to do laundry and nap.

Going to Omaha for work trip thursday. Hopefully it won't be super hot. My Mp3 player is all charged so I should be good to go for the road hours.

Viking Village

2009-07-30T09:40:00.001-07:00

I have been a real slacker about posting. Summer laziness. That's my excuse for not writing.

Earlier on this summer Jess had asked me if I was interested in going with her to the Viking Village fest at the Hjemkost Center in Moorhead. I have always wanted to go see it but normally when I think about it, I am on my way to or from an event. Not the best time to stop. So when she asked I said yeah that sounds fun.

In the meantime, a pin on one of my viking brooches broke and that just a good excuse to order a new set from Raymond's, right?

We drove to Fargo early Saturday morning and made it to the center by noon. They have booths set up doing all sorts of viking crafts and selling things. Danr had his forge set up and of course there is fighting, people were dyeing, weaving, you name it. Jess and I settled in with Kol and Arbon at the welcome/show and tell table. We had a nice sewing circle in between visitors. It was a lovely day to be outside. Wandered around a bit and took pictures of the church. It makes me want to re-visit the one in Rapid.

The fair wrapped up at 6pm Saturday night. Volunteers were treated to salad, pizza and ice cream. Some people went to see Harry Potter and some were hanging out around the fire at site. I opted to stay at site but my energy crashed after sunset. Was only interested in going to sleep. Watched people play after dark boccie ball. Arbon has two sets that light up. A bit mind blowing if you are tipsy. Finally it was declared time to go to sleep and we headed off to Toramassa's for bed. We pretty much hit pillows shortly after getting in the door.

Sunday the village was open Noon to 4. Bayard had arranged to have a church service for the volunteers in the stavekirk. Bayard's brother ran the service and he talked about what it was like for the early Christians. Very nice.

Sunday afternoon was a little hotter than Saturday and I don't think they got as many people as they hoped. It was still nice to sit out and enjoy the weather. Things wrapped up at 4. Jess and I got our gear packed and headed off. All and all it was fun and a good time.

More pictures are on my flickr page.

Moorish Tavern

2009-07-02T12:47:00.001-07:00

Go away for 4 days and everyone becomes Russian novelists! Sheeshh. Took forever to catch up on facebook and email but I think I am through it all. Still need to catch up on recorded tv.

I had a good trip with Tom and Heidi. We left Vermillion around 8 am on Thursday. Picked up Heidi in SF and didn't stop until Fargo for gas and lunch. The trip past Grand Forks was interesting. I had never been up that way before. We counted graineries. We made good time and got to site around 7. Checked in, dumped off stuff and went to Bottineau for supper. We stopped at the Pizza Inn for Mexican food. Its pretty good. I had a quesadilla that was about the size of a small pizza! It was at the restaurant where Heidi got two texts that Micheal Jackson was dead. Crazy that. We ate and headed back to site. We bummed around a bit, got our beds made and such. Sat around in the dorms. They have big cabin doors kind of like the ones at Gimli but no stairs and more beds. I found a bed that wasn't a bunk. Yay no bonking of heads. The bed was softer than I am used to so that was an adjustment and I am always concerned I am going to roll over and out of bed since i am used to my full size bed. We went to bed early since it had been a long old day and we had two days to visit with everyone.

Friday morning we got up and went into town for breakfast at the Family bakery. Its a nice homey place. I like it because they have fried potatoes!! I purchased some donuts on the way out. So miss the donut shop that used to be in Vermillion. Then we stopped the grocery and walmart for a few things. Headed back to site and I got in a shower and got garb on. Spent most of the day in the dining hall hanging out with people and knitting a bit. Trying to think what else I did but mostly sit around. Late afternoon got talking to Tiff about Seneschal stuff. She is our regional seneschal. She was thinking of convincing the Bismark group to put in a bid to host spring crown. She asked if I would come along for support. Sure why not and besides nice to go visit. Anyway after the discussion was over, I hung out and got delicious brownies and ice cream that they made with dry ice. During this it started to rain. Hung out there for a bit and then when it finally stopped went back up to the dining hall and Kol arrived. By then, Heidi and Tom wanted to go to dinner so we all went down the road a bit to one of the lake restaurants. It was okay. No great shakes but food good. Went back and hung about in the dining hall.

Saturday was super lazy and laid in bed for a long time. Ate donuts that never got around to eating. Still good so you know the bakery is kick ass. Got dressed and up. Hung out more in the feast hall with peeps. Handed over one of my hats for the silent auction. Figured it was for a good cause. Saturday we basically hung out, watched it rain, and hung out some more. Got to see Robin's staples. Wow ouchies. Feast was very tasty. Much good food. After feast we hung out, drinking and telling of old stories.

Sunday drive home was uneventful. We had breakfast at the Family Bakery and then stopped in Grand Forks for a bit of a rest. Dropped Heidi off and got back to Verm about 8.

This week should be short. Today I have off to recover from my trip and I have Friday off due to the fourth. Yay for 3 day weeks!

Catch up and Bardic Madness

2009-06-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

To say the doldrums of summer has set in would be a vast understatement. The last couple of weeks there has been bupkiss to write about so I haven't. Work has left me rather bereft of good thoughts so ehhh. Mental doldrums and insomnia hasn't helped either but it will work itself out sooner or later.

On a better note Bardic Madness was in Sioux Falls this weekend and that was rather fun. Hagan and Asa rode up with me. Not a whole lot of people but a good time none the less. It was good to see everyone who came. Challenges were fun to listen too and I participated in a few. Painted a scroll blank, visited and basically hung out. Feast was Russian themed and very good. Several people were super excited. Things got cleaned up and most everyone headed over to Rick's in Brandon for the post revel. Spent a few hours there. After the fire dancing was done, several people insisted I stay for that, Asa and I went home.

Pictures of the event are posted on my flickr page.

Sunday was Father's Day and went home to see Dad and the rest of the fam. My niece was staying the weekend so things had been busy there. Everyone else must have been tired too since a hour or so after dinner everyone was taking a nap. I decided to be a sheep and have one too. Nice and cool down the basement.

Hot and stormy this week. Very glad the AC at home and work is working just fine. Yay for that.

Quest

2009-05-18T16:36:00.001-07:00

Ah still tired from the weekend. Quest was a lot of fun. Kol didn't get to Verm until super late so we didn't head out to Rapid until late Thursday morning. That was okay because we were able to score fresh out of the oven french loaves from Jones.

It was a nice cool day for traveling. No big excitements or mishaps. Got to Rapid around 5 mt time, went to Eileen's Cookies (best cookies EVAR!) and went to see Fiona's new yarn shop. Very cool. Had Greek food with Fiona and then got supplies and headed out to site. We got settled in our cabin and then wandered around until late.

Friday was a cold and wet day. It rained off and on and wasn't very nice to hang around outside. We had hot scones for breakfast. After breakfast Hagan and I went up to TRM cabin to see what they were doing. It was nice to chat inside where it was warm. Wandered a bit after that and gave out my hat stash. I knew it was going to be cold so figured I would drag them along. Supplies now depleted. Poked around in the merchants after lunch but then it started to rain so ducked into Fiona's cabin. The rain stopped and I headed back home for a nap. Good day for it. Late afternoon the sun came out but it was still quiet chilly. Ate dinner with the girls and Tom and then watched the torchlight tourney. The finals was Katsuo vs Ajax with Katuso winning. Hung out there for a bit. Had my first taste of Frog from the Outlands cabin. Very tasty but very dangerous since its like cool aid. I was tired by then, the cold wasn't helping so I went back to the cabin. Wasn't there long before we had company. I guess people wanted to bring the party indoors. It was nice to seeRob and Becca again. I kicked everyone out eventually. I couldn't keep conscious.

Saturday was a much nicer day. A bit cool but at least sunny. Delphina's squireing took place in the morning before the fighting. It was very nice. Kol and I got our chairs and picked out a spot to watch the fighting. Everyone was enjoying the day. Watched HRM do her heavy weapons authorization. Congrats on that! Most of the afternoon was spent on the porch watching fighing, sewing and visiting. The porch is awesome since you can see quite a lot from upstairs. Court was 5ish and then afterwards we went to the resturant for prime rib. Ate way too much. Retained a bit for TRM and wandered around camp and ended up at the Outlands cabin. They are a lot of fun. Will have to hang out there a bit more next year.

Sunday we lazily packed up and tried to get everyone to eat the rest of our food. "Does anyone want bacon" gets a huge response. Trip home was good. A bit windy towards the end. Had supper at Chevy's Fresh Mex in SF. Too much food. Next time I am getting a quesadilla and a whole bunch the corn side dish. Got home around 8. Hagan came over and we watch Tropic Thunder. Was glad I had already seen it since I had a hard time paying attention. Kol liked it tho.

Kol headed off after breakfast today. I bummed around and got my laundry together. Totally forgot to buy clothes soap when we were at Jones for breakfast. Doh! Got that done tho. Still have to put some things away. Nap was had and now contemplating going to see Star Trek. hmmm.

Spring Crown

2009-05-11T21:35:00.000-07:00

Crown was a blast! Congrats to Liz and Zig!

Trip up was good. Picked Svien up in SF and Rue in Adrian. Rue had offered to drive and I never say no to that. It rained most of the way up and it was a bit hard to see. I was glad I wasn't driving. I am way overdue for an eye exam. Night driving is not the best right now. We made it to the hotel about when I expected. We hung out for awhile and waited for Kol to show up.

Saturday we leisurely got ready and headed off to site. So nice not to have to hurry up and get there.

Picked up wool crack that I have purchased from Eithni. Jess I have yours. Are you coming to Quest?

Completed step one of my currier dutes for super secret project 854. Hopefully I won't forget about step 2.

Most of the day spent wandering around talking to people. Spent some quality time in Cassandra 's spot. View was mostly people's backs so we didn't get to see much fighting but it was good for people wandering past. Hung out a bit at the list table so I could get updates since I was in high distracted mode and didn't pay full attention to the tourney.

Got two Kingdom Level job offers. One I am considering and the other would probably give me anxiety the size of texas so I am going to pass.

Had fun hanging out with the Roses during the finals. My first time doing that.

Ablalard had a good description of the tourney. Couldn't of said it better myself.

Court was good. Love Vidi's scroll. How awesome is that?

Favorite moment was the day was right before leaving Ilya was playing with some kids. I walked past and he straitened up and said to the kids oh we have to behave its the Countess. I laughed and said you don't have to behave for me. One of the kids came up to me and said Countess can I give you a hug? How can you say no to that. I said of course. Its the little things thath make your day.

A bunch of us headed off to the Outback for supper and then back to the hotel to celebrate Astrid's birthday and to celebrate with Zig and Liz. Yay throwback Mt. Dew and drinks made by Svien.

Sunday we headed off to have breakfast at IKEA and to poke around. I got some wooden hangers because you can't go to IKEA and not get something. Also went to the fabric mecca of SR Harris for the first time. Wow is all i can say. Didn't get anything but good to know where it is.

Trip home was good. Rue and Svein drove and I took a little nap. Have not been able to sleep much lately. Dropped Rue off and Svien and I got back to SF around 6. We had talked about going to see Star Trek but I only had the energy to eat and drive home. We went to Szchwans on Minnesota. So tasty. I wish we had one in Vermillion. Headed home after eating. Nothing exciting there. Was glad to sleep in my own bed.

Be busy week. Got to get things rounded up and ready to go for Quest. Will be leaving sometime on Thursday. Will be nice to have a few days to relax in the Hills. Hopefully the weather will be good. If not, we can play perudo in the cabin.

Favorite pics from the weekend. Taken by Shava. I had my camera but only took about 3 pictures.

First one would be better if I weren't bitting my lips.

Ides of March or More yarn junkies than fighters

2009-03-30T06:56:00.001-07:00

Ides was a good time despite the small crowd.

Hagan and I drove up to Huron Friday night to crash with Kol and Fiona. We got there later than expected since we ended up stopping in Sioux Falls to have supper with Del and Katsuo.

We got a poolside room at the super 8. Who would ever think of putting 3 queen size beds in a room. It would be nice if more hotels did. It only cost a little more than a two bed room. No one had to sleep on the floor and we had a mini fridge. Milk and cookies, anyone?

Saturday, We got to site fairly early since Hagan wanted to fence. Turned out it was just him and Aethelflad. I got to roll the dice of fate for them. Dice rolls would determine what weapon style. Hagan won that. Not sure if they did 5 out of 7 or 7 out of 11. They had fun

Most of the day was spent doing yarn activities. Kol brought me some nice alpaca and mohair. So soft.

After lunch the fighters did some authorizations and had their tourney. I taught a few more people how to play perudo. Miss counted a dice on a round and got scolded for not being able to count. Funk came to my defense saying I was Queen of Love and beauty not Math and Science. Lol. Every one enjoyed the game. We played a couple of rounds and Rachel got me back for soundly beating her at Lupercalia.

There were few entries in the A&S Throwdown but all were very well done. Svien won the competition with his wire weave necklace.

Later in the afternoon, Kol and I ran back to the hotel to get a few forgotten things, mostly feast gear. On the way back I stopped at DQ to get an ice cream cone which spurred a mass ice cream run when we got back. DQ is two blocks from site. Hopefully it didn't spoil anyone's supper.

Feast was Greek. Very yummy. The baklava was especially nice.

After clean up, we headed back to the hotel for pool time and hanging out.

Sunday we got up early since Fiona wanted to get home before it started to snow in Rapid. We had breakfast at Marlins and then everyone hit the road. Hagan and I stopped in Sioux Falls to do a little shopping and get some armor measurements for Chris St. Pierre. Hagan is making him armor. We stopped by to see Ajax for a bit and then headed home. We got home around 4ish.

Pictures of the event are up on facebook and on my flickr page.

Lupercalia

2009-02-26T14:55:00.000-08:00

Being sick takes all enthusiasm for blogging right out. So highlights version of the weekend.

Wind in SD is often worse than the snow.

Going to the bathroom at Granite City is like playing frogger. You are the frog, waitstaff are the cars. Who puts the bathroom by the kitchen door? Nothing but trouble.

Its never too cold for Culver's Custard.

Minnesota is the land of ice and snow. I am glad I live in SD.

Breaks and ice are not a good combo. Thanks car in front of me. I almost slide in the ditch.

The event was fun. We got little bunnies and rings for tokens. If anyone knows how they made the rings let me know. I would like to makes some as personal tokens. I am a ring junkie.

Anywho, retained for Her Majesty. She had some lovely fabric she was making into a apron dress. We watched the Buschkazi which was less frenzied than last year.

Taught Rachel, Jess and Kaia how to play perudo. We played two games of that. The second game was a bit cutthroat that came down to two die. I somehow pulled the win. It was awesome.

Before court, took the girls with Sir Tom to meat market around the corner. Meat sticks for everyone.

Court and feast was fun. Spent most of feast telling old SCA stories.

The drive home was much better. There were a few slippery spots but not many. I was quiet glad I had planned to stay in SF Saturday night instead of driving home. I don't think I could have stayed awake.

Sunday we got up late and then went out to lunch. We called Svien to see if he wanted to go if he had any "For the Good of the Land" CDs for the girls to buy. We had a tasty lunch at Dynasty then shopping. We hit the bead store, yarn store, Shopko for blank CDs and World Market for treats. Jess got her CD and I headed home.

Hertzkrieg

2009-02-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

Hertzkrieg went off quite well. We had about 75 people in attendance and around 20 fighters. Everyone seemed to have a good time. Lots of fighting, heavy and light and much fiber activity. Svien resumed his duties as champion of doom. He didn't win but somehow I ended up sitting at head table anyway. Feast was good even tho we didn't have rabbit this year. The homemade sausage and sirloin roast certainly made up for it. The Toms also made cookies which were awesome!

Photos are up on my flickr page. http://www.flickr.com/photos/blancmange/sets/72157613521037229/

Favorite picture is this one.

Its Only a Flesh Wound II

2009-02-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

Weekend was good. Friday I got up early and got all my chores done. I even had time to stop at parental units to pick up my clothes package. My mom had called the day before to ask when I was going to be able to get my pants. It was mostly an issue since I am probably not going to be home for a couple of weeks. It dawned me I had time to swing by and pick them up before heading to Sioux Falls. Did that and then on the way up decided to call Jessica to see if she wanted to do lunch. She had been having one of those boring weeks that needed a pick me up. Didn't know if she would call me back but she did and we met at the Golden Bowl for Chinese. Yummy. Nice to chat with her in person.

Headed up to Al's apato and we got loaded and headed out. Trip out was uneventful. Got to Madison about 8. Found Eithni's house and they had supper waiting. Tamales and Mexican soup. Muy delicioso. I had planned to stay with Kristen and James so after supper headed out to Lake Mills. It was a bit strange since I have never driven Svien's car before but made it with no trouble.

Got up on Saturday and headed to site. Got there around 9. I managed to score rockstar parking. woot. Got all my stuff in and settled. Ended up hanging out with Marwen, Green Jenny, Samia and Thora for the majority of the day. Basically sat around visited, knitted and unraveled the mess that my skeins of yarn had become. Thanks to everyone who helped with that. I am sure it looked quite comical. Jenny made me a pattern fur Norse hats. I will have to dig out fabric and see if I can get one made this week. Will have to find some fur but I think I can get it mostly done.

After the event was over ended up going to Thora's for supper. Kristen was going home to crash and said she wouldn't be good company. A bunch of people were going to the Brazilian buffet place but after being sick the previous weekend I didn't think it would be a good idea to ingest that much meat.

Picked Svien up late sunday morning. We had lunch with Eithni at a Lareado's for more yummy Mexican and then headed out. Trip home was okay. Hagan called around 6 to say they were having a freak snow storm. Great. Got to SF around 8. Called Hagan to see what the weather scoop was. It was clear as a bell in SF. He said it had passed so I hit the road. Everything was fine until I hit the bizzaro weather curtain in Bersford. Snow was on the road and it was icy in spots. There were several sand trucks out and someone had gone in the ditch somewhere around Union County Park. I didn't have any trouble since I know how to drive in icy conditions. Made it home around 9 .

All and all a fun event and well worth the trip. This week I need to get things cleaned up at home since I will be having company for Hertzkrieg.

Photos from Its a Flesh Wound

http://www.flickr.com/photos/blancmange/sets/72157613310903846/

Daria has been bugging me to get pictures of my project up on Ravelry. So while I waited for my cake to bake last night I played around with my camera. www.flickr.com/photos/blancmange/sets/72157613311116568/

Yes, I have posted them to Ravelry too.

Calontir 12th Night

2009-01-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning Hagan showed up early to help me unstick the sliding door. Somehow it gets temperamental and doesn't like to open in the winter. Svien, Eithni and Morton came down from Sioux Falls and they said the roads were okay. So we loaded the stuff in my van and hit the road. It was raining a bit. Just enough to ice on the car but the roads were mostly fine. It was interesting to see the antenna ice up and then melt as we traveled south.

We got to Omaha around 11:30. Got everything unloaded and then I lost everyone for a bit. Got dressed, stashed my gear downstairs and then went looking for everyone. Figured the guys were getting ready for the fighting. Ran into Countess Jane. We chatted and admired each other's coronet.

Swung by the Northshield Royalty room but no one was about so went upstairs to watch fighting and knit. It wasn't too long before TRMs, Duncan, Seonaid, and Eithni came to watch too. Watched fighting for awhile and then went downstairs with Eithni to check out the silent auction. They had some nice things available. Many books. I didn't bid on anything since I have restricted myself from getting new stuff until the majority of stuff I already have is organized and not all over the apato. I have been looking for a new hat box since my current one isn't the greatest option. They had several cool boxes available but nothing that would work. Eithni showed me her's which is a cookie tin. Turns out I have had the perfect tin at home. Now I just need to find somewhere to stash my sewing notions.

Sat in the A&S room until they shooed us out so they could set up tables for feast. Ended up visiting with TRMs in the Royalty Room since all the activities were winding down. Hagan said he had seen Tara and she was looking for me so visited with her and ended up sitting with her during court. I got in some quality baby snuggling with baby Jacob. After court I had found out that I had missed out on bad peer in the balcony. Hagan had met up with last year's Calontir Royals.

Took awhile before everyone was ready to roll out for dinner with Tera, Jesse and kids. During the day it was fairly icy in town. The roads were slick in town but it wasn't too bad underfoot. I made Hagan drive to Indigo Joe's since hills and ice make me nervous. Dinner was good but it was hard to hear in the sports bar. After supper we debated if we wanted to stay in Omaha or head home. Everyone was in the mood to go home so we decided to brave it. The roads home weren't too bad. They had done a good job salting the roads. Ramps and bridges were a bit scary but we made it. Saw 3-4 cars in the ditch south of Sioux City so sometime during the day it had been crappy. We made it home safe and sound and I was glad to crawl into my own bed.

Movies 2008

2008-12-31T14:51:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-16T12:42:00.001-08:00

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

2008-12-09T13:07:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

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

2008-09-26T11:27:00.001-07:00

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

2008-09-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-05T06:42:00.001-07:00

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

2008-09-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-31T13:02:00.001-07:00

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

2008-07-28T13:10:00.001-07:00

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

2008-07-15T11:38:00.001-07:00

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

2008-07-01T09:56:00.001-07:00

nataliedee.com

Mad Dogs

2008-06-30T14:05:00.001-07:00

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.

2008-06-20T10:56:00.001-07:00

This is awesome!!!

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

2008-06-16T14:14:00.001-07:00

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.

2008-06-13T12:52:00.001-07:00

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

2008-06-09T07:40:00.001-07:00

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!!!!!

2008-06-06T11:43:00.001-07:00

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

2008-06-02T13:42:00.001-07:00

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

2008-06-02T11:25:00.001-07:00

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

2008-05-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-23T08:04:00.000-07:00

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

Quest

2008-05-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-13T07:44:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-12T11:44:00.001-07:00

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

2008-05-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-08T06:18:00.001-07:00

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

2008-05-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

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

Thursday's musings

2008-05-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-29T09:40:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T13:09:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

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

Birthday Weekend and Provost Challenge

2008-04-14T12:59:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-04-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-03-31T12:06:00.001-07:00

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

Life underwater

2008-03-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-25T14:16:00.001-07:00

The plague confirmed

2008-03-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-20T08:09:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

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

2008-03-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

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

2008-03-03T12:16:00.001-08:00

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

2008-03-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-28T11:01:00.001-08:00

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

2008-02-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-25T13:24:00.001-08:00

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

2008-02-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-19T09:47:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-13T13:40:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-08T05:57:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-05T13:49:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-31T13:06:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-28T11:49:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-25T11:13:00.000-08:00

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

Thursday musings

2008-01-24T12:01:00.000-08:00

This week has gone fast but the days seem to last forever. Its probably the cold. It has slowed everything down. I know I feel like I am moving in slow motion. Either that or its the let down from being so busy last week.

I should get busy and work on stuff for the upcoming events. We have the archery shoot this weekend down in Elk Point. Its pot luck so I need to think about what to bring. I should make those cookies I have been meaning to make. Not sure who all will be down for it. I have heard that Rachel and Tara will be home. I know Rue and Kaylee will be coming so that should be fun. I haven't seen them in ages. Not since Yule Tide.

Erin called me the other day to ask if I had heard the news. I told her I knew that Tara was pregnant. Turns out she is pregnant too and is due in late September / early October. Babies abound. Everyone is wondering if she will finally have a girl.

Nordskogen 12th Night

2008-01-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

So after the longest week of the year (work was mental last week) we loaded up and headed out of town. I was quiet pleased that we left town by 5:30. Hagan had been working extra late everyday and it was a question if he was going to get off at a decent time. Got to SF and picked up Svienn and dinner. The only stop we made was in Albert Lea. It was too cold to want to stop too many times. We headed into the wind after turning on to I-35 so that made it hard to keep on the roads but we made it despite the big city spaghetti works confusing my tired brain.

Saturday turned out to be one of those beautiful crystal clear sub-zero days. Nailz's car didn't care for the cold but she made it to the hotel and we headed off to site.

The event went quiet well. It seemed like a whirlwind of doings. We got there in time to get ready and then have morning court. That got over in time so I could organize my gifts and then hand them out. Nailz and I also walked through the merchants and visited with people. Talked to Zanni on how to warp my loom since I forgot to ask about it when she gave it to me at Boars Head. I might actually get something started on that.

We had Stallari meeting and then visited the A&S and the Nordskogen Bard competition. There weren't a lot of competitors so various people got up and preformed. At the end, Fiona poked me and said why don't you sing. A couple of people agreed that I should so I did. I sang a little folk song that makes me think of the SCA and it didn't sound too bad. Was a bit nervous to sing but it went okay. After that I ran upstairs to visit Eliane's vigil before our meeting with the White Scarfs. Then it was time to get ready for court. Evening court went well. Both Hagan and I changed into the new tunics that Mistress Tatiana made for us. She had said earlier in the day she wanted pictures of us wearing them and since there had been no time I figured it was a good idea. Court went well and I think it gets easier each time.

We quickly got packed up after court and headed off to the Outback for supper. I didn't think I would be hungry but apparently I was. It seemed to take forever to eat and it was late when we got back to the hotel. We thought about going to some of the parties but it was 11 by the time we got back and Hagan really wanted to go to the pool and Nailz and I were tired. We hung out a bit with Fiona, Skadi and Berenice.

Sunday's drive home went by quickly and was uneventful. It got more cloudy the closer we got to home and it started lightly snowing around Beresford. It got rather snowy in the evening so I am glad we got home when we did. I think we got about 8 inches in town. Hard to tell since it is that super light fluffy stuff.

Spent Monday relaxing and then doing chores in the evening. I was glad to have the day off.

This weekend we have the Archery Shoot in Elk Point and the week after that I am heading off to Wisconsin.

And set the dial to -3

2008-01-18T12:53:00.000-08:00

bbbrrrr Wow its cold this week and looks like more of the same next week. I have been extra tired this week. I can't decided if the cold weather has slowed my blood or if I have been just ultra busy. Probably both.

I think I am ready for the weekend. If not, too bad. I am looking forward to having fun. Work has been nuts and stressful. The best part is Monday is a holiday. I plan on hibernating for a day.

Tara took some pictures while we were at 12th Night in Lonely Tower. You can check them out on my flickr page. http://www.flickr.com/photos/blancmange/sets/72157603744765129/

Someone left the freezer door open

2008-01-15T12:33:00.000-08:00

Ai ya this week is super cold. brrr.

The weekend was pretty good. I got many things accomplished and somehow managed to go see Sweeney Todd and relax a bit too.

Preparations for 12th night are coming along. A few more things to do and then on to packing it all up. I think I will be ready.

Things have been fairly busy at work too. School starts this week and I have hired new student staff so they all need to be trained and scheduled plus all the other duties that come with the start of a new semester. Sigh. I will be glad to have next Monday off. I am going to need it.

Happy Birthday to Hrodir!!!!

tag meme

2008-01-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Thunderbunny had this on his blog and it looked cool. Here's what I had to say.

TAG...I'M IT

Here's how you play: Once you've been tagged you have to write a blog with 10 weird, random, facts, habits or goals about yourself, and at the end choose 5 (or more) people to be tagged, list their names and why you tagged them. Don't forget to leave them a comment saying "Tag! You're It!" and to go read your blog. You cannot tag the person that tagged you so since you can't tag me back let me know when you are done so that I can go read YOUR blog answers.

1) I like to eat saltines with ice cream

2) As a teenager I read tons of trashy romance novels. I still can't believe my mom let me get away with that.

3) I collect postcards

4) I drive a "vintage" van. According to my mom.

5) I am of Co-creater (Other creator is Andrew Brady) of Knobby the Doorman, sidekick The Latch, girlfriend Patty O'Door and Arch Nemisis the Keymaster. All rights reservered.

6) You can usually tell how mad I am by the amount of swearing.

7) I know how to say "my pants are on fire" in gaelic

8) In twelve years I have had 3 different jobs and 5 differnt bosses but all in the same building

9) If I ever become independantly wealthy, I would buy buses for Northshield so people could easily travel to events. I would also buy a home in England. Maybe a castle.

10) The scar on my left elbow was created when a window smashed over the top of my head when I was five. It took five people to hold me down so they could put the stitches in.

I tag:

Red Caillie because she is a loyal reader

Astrid because she's cool beans

Nailz because she is l33t

Clare because she's got nothing better to do in the desert

Rachel because I haven't heard from her in awhile

Midwinter malaise

2008-01-10T13:30:00.000-08:00

Midwinter malaise has taken a firm grip on my life and it makes it extremely hard to accomplish anything in the evenings. I did manage to do a few sewing projects last night but I need to get going this weekend so I am ready for 12th Night. Hem, hem and hem some more will be the name of the game.

I should also try and go shopping this weekend and perhaps get out and do something fun. This weekend will probably be my last free weekend until the end of Feb.

Since I don't have anything too exciting to say today here is an amusing video that was made where I work.

Putting the wed back in wednesday

2008-01-09T13:28:00.000-08:00

One more day before Jess takes off for the wilds of Wyoming. We are going to miss her but she might be back. Her job is only for six months. Then again she might find that she likes it out there in the mountains, near the lands of the Mormons and decide that its the place to be.

We took her out to dinner last night to the new place downtown. It was a somber affair until Hagan started making silly list of things she can do while she is away. Hopefully she can meet up with some of the SCA people out there when she is not sitting in a tent digging in the dirt saying "hey I found a rock". (She's an archaeologist and likes that sort of stuff)

Farewell to Lady Aethelflaed the Impaler, Cake who used to be cupcake, denyer of the table, swasher of buckles, seeker of schlepers, Handmaiden of Doom, and pirate.

Don't forget to write. I know the pony express doesn't run anymore but thats no excuse. Clare is stuck in the middle of the desert and we hear regularly from her.

12th Night with the Neighbors

2008-01-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic time at Calontir's 12th Night in Lonely Tower (Omaha, NE). Oddly enough it is closer to go to Calontir's 12th Night than our Own Kingdom's but I guess thats what happens when you live on kingdom boarder.

Some of the people going with us dropped out because of illness and such but it turned out we had a full van anyway. Del, Katsuo, Hrodwin, and Kat ended up riding down with us. We got up super early and were out of town by 7:30. Most everyone slept on the way down. We got to Omaha around 9:30 and then we had a bit of trouble finding site. I think the directions were for people approaching Omaha from the south. Anyway we got turned around and found site. They had reserved parking for us so that was super sweet. We got checked in and shown to our Royalty Room. That was really nice too. It had lots of comfy chairs and a gigantic TV (which we were good and didn't watch). Not long after we got there TRM and TRH came down to greet us and invite us to the vigils that were going to take place that morning. After that we hurried up and got dressed so we could go. Neither of us had been to a Calontir Vigil before and it was quiet interesting and moving to see. THL Talbot got put on vigil for Knighthood and TRH also were put on vigil. Her Highness was not a peer before she became princess so she wanted to experience a vigil. Hagan and I both thought that was a good idea and wished we had thought of that.

After that got over we headed back downstairs and poked through the merchants and Nghuala and Ava showed up. It was good to see them again. The rest of the day was spent visiting, hanging out, playing with Ava and watching the fighting. It was nice to go to an event and not have any set schedule or meetings. Hagan actually got to fight for more than 15 minutes.

Court was at 4:30 which went fairly well and didn't drag at all. After court there was a little time to relax and then on to feast. Feast was fun and good. The Calontir Royals are a lot of fun to talk to. We even learned a new stupid peer trick. So all and all a good trip.

Next up is Nordskogen 12th Night which will be a slightly busier event.

2008 is here to stay

2008-01-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

New Years eve and day were quiet affairs. Pretty much standard celebration i.e. nothing but watching TV and hanging out at home. I wish I had thought ahead so I could have got new movies from netflix for the new year. Its probably good I didn't. I got a few piles of stuff organized and few other things done. I probably would have gone out shopping yesterday but since it was so cold couldn't work up the ambition to go out.

Congratulations to Tom and Jen on the birth of Issac James on Monday afternoon.
For about two weeks, Everyone's been asking me if I knew anything, what's going on, etc. Its not like I talk to Tom on a regular basic but apparently everyone is convinced I am the hub of communications for Svaty. Which makes it really funny that Baron Tom called me to tell me the news. All went well and it sounds like Jen will be going home tomorrow.

Last day of 2007

2007-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

Can you believe tomorrow is 2008? I surely can't. Time marches on. I never get to excited to celebrate New Years. Just another day really. I will be glad to have it off. Tomorrow is suppose to be bitterly cold so I will probably hibernate at home. I should work on a few projects and get stuff ready for this weekend's trip to Calontir.

Here is another pointless but timefilling meme for you.

1) Where did you begin 2007?
At home on the couch getting adicted to Ugly Betty and watching movies

2) What was your status by Valentine's Day?
same as always

3) Favorite movie of 07?
Several actually but the one I am sure most people didn't see and should is Sweet Land

4) How did you earn your money?
working at the Lib

5) Did you have to go to the hospital this year?
no thankfully

6) Did you have any encounters with the police?
No unless you count talking to Thunderbunny at an event.

7) Where did you go on holidays?
visited the parental units

8) What did you purchase that was over $1,000?
I didn't have any large purchases this year

9) Did you know anybody who got married?
Merideth and Bron

10) Did you know anybody who passed away?
yes

11) Did you lose any friends?
Not yet but Jess is moving to Wyoming :-(

12) Did you move anywhere?
I moved around a lot this year but my stuff stayed at home

13) What concerts/shows did you go to?
none

14) Are you registered to vote?
yes

15) Who did you want to win Big Brother?
I don't watch that

16) Where do you live now?
In my apato

17) What's something you thought you'd never do but did in 2007?
become SCA Royalty

18) What has been your favorite moment(s)?
There has been too many to put here

19) Where did you go on vacation?
vacation, whats that?

20) Any new additions to your family?
nope

21) What was your favorite month?
September

22) How much have you partied?
some

23) Made new friends?
yes

24) What did you do for 4th of July?

Stayed at Nailz's and went to Khans for supper

25) Favorite Night out?
too many to remember

26) Name the instance in which you had most to drink:
Kaia's birthday

27) Are you in a relationship with someone you met this year?
i have lots of relationships but i really don't have time for romance right now

Every day looks like a picture postcard

2007-12-27T07:28:00.000-08:00

All the snow and constant fog has covered everything in a beautiful frost. I should get out and take some pictures. Its quite lovely although driving and walking around is still slippery. I almost wiped out leaving work yesterday but somehow I managed to keep up right. Thank you snow boots. Also took a little skid in the car while going to the bank. Nothing happened but it was one of those oh crap -hey that was fun-lets do that again moments.

Andrew stopped by work yesterday to say hello and to see when would be a good time to go out to dinner this week. He seemed to be doing well. Didn't get a chance to talk to him much. We will be meeting up tonight for dinner.

Rachel also came by in the afternoon. We decided we were hungry for Mexico Viejo so we called Kaia to get out of bed and join us. We called Hagan too but he wasn't quite home yet from his trip to the cities but he would be home in time to go to the movies if we were interested in going. Dinner was muy delicioso. After dinner we went back to my apato and hung out until Hagan got back to town. Around 7 it was getting super foggy so he didn't get back in time to see the early show which was fine since I wanted to chat with Rachel more than I wanted to go to the movies. I can go sit in a dark room and not talk to anyone any time I want.

I didn't know if I felt up to going to the late show but when it was time to go I had decided it would be fun. We went to see National Treasure 2. It was fun but not overly great. I think all of us had it figured out half way through. I was kind of bothered that they never really explained the bad guys motivation. At least not overly well so that was lame. I think we were all deeply amused that the climax takes place in South Dakota.

When we got out of the movie the fog had taken over the town. You could see down the block and not any further. I didn't envy Rachel having to drive back out to her parents.

Why does every day feel like its Sunday

2007-12-26T11:56:00.001-08:00

Seems like everyday is a Sunday. I guess thats what you get when a holiday is on a Tuesday. I am thinking that they should make a law that holidays have to fall on a Monday or a Friday. Or if they fall on a Tuesday/Thursday you get that Monday/Friday off and if it falls on a Wednesday total week off bonus.

Christmas was nothing grand but nice. The gifts I gave were happily received. mission success. My niece especially liked her pink hat. She immediately plonked it on her head and ran around showing everyone.

Christmas Day it snowed and looked very pretty up until it was time for me to get out on the road. It wasn't too bad, just wet and slushy but I was glad I headed out when I did. Verm hadn't gotten very much snow by the time I got back home but by the time I went to bed we had about 2-3 inches. If there would have been anyone around to throw snow at it would have been prime snowball weather.

The day before the night before Christmas

2007-12-24T12:38:00.000-08:00

The presents are wrapped, bags packed and last minute details are finished. Now all I have to do is make it through the Monday workday. Luckily it hasn't been too bad. Thank you BBC Radio 2 the greatest Radio station in the world. It would be better if we didn't have to be open but if wishes were fishes we would all be sick of fish.

All of Christmas will be spent at the 'rents this year. A little bit different but it has kind of been that way every since my gran moved into her apartment. It should be fun. I asked my niece if she was ready to open presents and her response was "OH Yes!" She didn't know about the whole Santa thing but she was all ready for the presents.

I am sure we will also watch some if not all of The Christmas Story like we always do and my dad will sigh and ask if we have that memorized yet. How can you not get a kick out of Ralphie's quest for a red ryder b-b gun. Its family tradition. And there will be lefse.

I hope everyone has a Happy Christmas!!!!

Oh, crystal ball, crystal ball, Save us all, tell me life is beautiful

2007-12-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

I recently got Keane's latest album Under the Iron Sea. It is rockin! I have been playing it non stop. It will probably be the first thing I put on my Mp3 player.

I got my Sandisk Clip yesterday. I read a lot of good things about it. There was even an article about it in Smart Computing in Plain English so it made me happy with my choice. When I ordered it I didn't realize it has a record option on it. That will be fun to play with. The FM tuner works pretty well too. I got a blue one and its tiny. Its about the same size as an ipod shuffle but it has a screen and is cheaper.

So Friday before Christmas. I have finally finished with my shopping. I need to wrap up my parents gifts and then that should all be finished. Yay. I haven't been overly excited for Christmas this week but I also haven't felt overly well either. I either had a mild case of the flu or food poisoning. I finally got some medicine and that has helped greatly along with going to bed early. I am hoping I will feel more perky next week when everyone will be home for Christmas.

Christmas countdown status

2007-12-19T08:40:00.000-08:00

The countdown to Christmas is on and I think I am almost ready. I have one more present to get for my mom and I should be done. Huzzah. Then let the wrapping commence.

I have been looking at Mp3 players as a gift for myself but haven't really decided on any one brand. Then I think do I really need one? Although it would be nice to have on long car trips. Maybe I will wait until the after Christmas sales.

Apparently 4 batches of my easy make choc-peanut butter cookies is enough for 10 student workers and still have plenty leftover to give to Hagan.

Another meme

2007-12-18T06:47:00.000-08:00

Do you get distracted easily?
what did you say? I was distracted.

When is your next vacation and where?
Gulf Wars in March

Do you ride roller coasters?
Can't say I like them much

Who was the last person you yelled at?
I can't remember. I tend to rant in general than at one person

Are you wearing a necklace?
not right now

What family member do you look like?
My mom and dad. My brothers and I have the same chin and lips. Tough sharing.

Do you take any daily vitamins or pills?
nope

Where does your grandma live?
wakonda

Are you friends with your neighbors?
not really

Where have you lived throughout your life?
Irene, SD, Sioux Falls, Vermillion gah thats depressing

Do you have a routine before going to bed?
not really but I try to go to bed about the same time

Have you ever tee-peed someone's house?
no

Have you ever had a crush on your sister's/brother's friend?
oh yes. Still think about him. I wonder where he ended up.

When was the last time you drove more than 30 minutes?
Sunday

Do you have any enemies?
I have an Arch enemy. Does that count?

What is your usual breakfast?
granola bars or a scone

What are you doing tonight?
finishing christmas shopping

Would you date the person who posted this?
shes cute and all but not really my type. Besides shes taken

What's for dinner?
Who knows. Want to come over and make me something?

Anyone close to you ever died?
yes

Who's always there for you unconditionally?
my parents, my friends

Are you ashamed of your past?
Don't live in regret, esse

When was the last time you saw your best friend?
Saturday

Do you use lyrics to express how you feel?
of course

When was the last time you cried?
sunday

Do you swear often?
Depends on how mad I am.

Who is the last person you had a sleepover with?
sleepover? what am I, 8?

Do you like messages or comments better?
I like it when people talk to me so keep those cards and letters coming.

Do you still talk to the person you LAST kissed?
of course

What is the last thing you ate?
granola bar

Last doctors appointment or hospital visit?
I went to my bone cracker before thanksgiving

Do you know anyone in the military?
Clare, Danny, Iggy, Mouse

Is there anything silver near you?
my favorite pen

Where was your default picture taken?
Anime Detour

What do you like on your pizza?
sausage

What bill do you dread paying?
they are all equally dreadful

Did you ever go through an awkward stage?
I think I am still there

Have you had braces?
no

Do you have a green thumb?
no its normal colored but plants are not friendly to me or is it the other way around.

Ever tied a ribbon on your finger to remember something?
thats what notes in my pockets are for

Last video game you played?
freecell

Do you want another pet?
no

Whats so great about being an 80s kids?
All the great 80's songs

Yule Tide

2007-12-17T11:15:00.000-08:00

It was lovely to drive to an event only an hour away. So nice. Headed up to the big city to have breakfast with John and Caillie at Panera. I had never been there before so that was fun. Panera is a bit too fru fru yuppie for me but the food is good and we had a nice visit. I also got a giant popcorn tin full of chocolates and other goodies. Thanks Caillie (and John)!!!

Site opened at ten and we got there not long after that. There were only a few people there. Got all my stuff in and settled. John and Caillie stayed for a bit but since they work nights they headed home around lunch time. More people came and I finished my latest hat. I helped Rue fix her viking brooch strings and Svienn fixed my necklace that broke at Boars Head.

Site has some nice couches so in late afternoon I took a little nap probably longer than I planned but it was nice to catch a little siesta. When I got up Kaia and Jess had arrived and not long after that we ate turkey and all the fixings. All was very good and I had a hard time eating all my pie. I forgot about the pumpkin cheesecake Ruth made but I got to take some home.

Everyone was glad I could come. I had fun. I was glad to go to a nice little event.

If excuses were money, I would be rich

2007-12-14T07:42:00.000-08:00

Gah I hate finals week. Its hella hard to schedule people to work during it. If I had money for every excuse I have heard this week I could easily pay for my recent car repairs, all my Christmas presents, pay for the rest of my coronet that Jurgen is making(I can't wait to see it) and probably have some kicking around cash. Okay maybe not that many but it has felt like it. Yeesh. I would love to tell everyone to go get your tests done and enjoy the week but we have jobs that need doing. The semester isn't over yet.

Sometimes I miss having the few weeks off in between Christmas and New Years but its also nice to go to work and have it ultra quiet.

Anyway its Friday and that is awesome. I am looking forward to hanging out with the Border Downs gang this weekend. It will be nice to go to a low key event. I need to fix my necklace that broke and maybe make a few beads.

End of the Saga

2007-12-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

The end of the door saga has come to a close. As I mentioned the other day my driver's window would not stay up. The Thursday night before we drove to Wisconsin I was running errands and tried to roll the window down. It protested so I put it back up but the damage was done. Every time you pushed the button it would do nothing and you could hear the motor going round. Craptacular.
I spent Friday morning going to shop to shop to find someone who could look at it that morning. Third times the charm. Unfortunately they needed to order a part and all they could do was tape it. So we drove to Wisconsin with the window taped up. Monday they got the part in which was awesome since I had that day off and could easily drop it off. But then they broke the part. They had trouble with the door panel so they left it off. I was wondering how long I would have to drive around all getto style. Tape on the outside, stripped metal door on the inside with the power controls taped to the door which didn't stay taped for long. I decided I didn't care and just let it hang there. Wednesday came, They got the part and I am back in business. So nice to have that working. What a pain. Merry Christmas to me.

Boar's Head

2007-12-11T14:17:00.000-08:00

We had a good trip to Boar's Head despite the cold, the forecast for snow and driver's side window losing ability to stay up without tape. (The stupid track broke and is still broken since they broke the new part while trying to replace it yesterday) sigh.

Anyway got the window taped up in time to leave town and pick up Svienn and Deva. Katsumoto also rode along so we were filled to the gills with gear and people. When Hagan got knighted a few years ago there were 6 of us in the van with 4 sets of armor so we knew we could fit it all in. It helps that Hagan can bend space and time with his master packing skills. The trip out was uneventful. I didn't have to drive too much which was good since I hate driving at night. So need to go to the eye doctor. Sveinn played us some advance tracks of the Skaldheim album that was partial recorded at WW. I can't wait to get my copy. We got to the hotel around 10:30 and I just crashed. Everyone else went out for food but I had no desire to crawl back into the van. The bed was too comfortable.

It so nice to be at a hotel that has hot breakfast. Pancakes, french toast, sausage and eggs and the usual breakfast stuff. So nice. We loaded up and headed to site which was the next exit up the road.

We got set up and dressed and then waited around for Astrid to get there so we could spring our surprise on her. Finally everything was set and we opened court. It was so fun to watch her face go from Hurrah, to huh, oh no.

After that got squared away spent sometime visiting with people and checking out the merchants, stopped by the Princess Sleeve tourney. Everyone there seemed to be having a good time. Then it was time for peerage meetings.

My Aunt Mary who lives in Sheboygan (about an hour from site) came out to visit and was there when our meetings were done. It was fun to show her what I do during my spare time.

Court was a lot of fun but the longest one we have had. Two hours. But with fealties, and baronial court what can you do. During the middle Hagan noticed that he was losing everyone so we had a seventh inning stretch which did a lot of good. Everyone stood up except for all the people behind the throne sat down. Never heard such happy sighs. ;-)

Feast was fun too there were a several illusion foods and they the feasters played Agincourt the game. Hagan and I mostly doled out gems and loot although we decided that there were a surprising amount of poor peasants and poisonings.

Next up: Yule Tide in Border Downs and 12th Night in Calontir.

This blogs for Clare

2007-12-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

In an effort to provide entertainment for the troops overseas, yes I mean Clare sitting in her office in Kuwait, I plan to blog a bit more. Did I hear a redhead give a little cheer? Yeah I thought so.

Today's blog brings you a Christmas meme. Feel free to fill it out and post it on your blog.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bag? Both, gift bags are much easier to deal with and reusable

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial

3. When do you put up your tree? when I feel like it but never before thanksgiving. Not sure if its going up this year.

4. Do you like eggnog? yes

5. Favorite gift received as a child? Princess Leia Doll

6. Hardest person to buy for? mom

7. Easiest person to buy for? dad

8. Worst Christmas gift you've ever received? Sadly I have received many but the worst is crappy Queen Anne Chocolate covered cherries. belch. And the little ceramic Santa with a digital clock in its tummy from my brother Brian. What was he thinking? He was in the Army at the time but come on. Cash and gift cards are highly acceptable .

9. Mail or email Christmas cards? A little of both but not every year

10. Favorite Christmas movie? The Snowman http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Snowman

11. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Depends but usually toward the end of the shopping season

12. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes

13. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? lefse, peanut butter cup cookies

14. White or colored lights? colored

5. Favorite Christmas song? Christmas time is here

16. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Sure but I have to sing the song

17. Angel or Star on top of tree? Star

18. Open presents Christmas Eve or Morning? Eve

19. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Crowds

20. What I love most about Christmas? how pretty everything is and spending time with my friends and family