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ptpgradBack from the central coast to see a new faire. All the usual caveats apply. If you see that I missed something/one, etc, you can mention it, but rest assured, I will remember it. Doesn’t mean I didn’t like you, didn’t enjoy talking to you or anything, but people are only willing to read so much and there ARE 56 acres inside that village…so away we go… (additional comments supplied by 3fingeredsalute...my companion for the trip)
VIVA LAS TEXAS
I left a conference I was at to quickly change over suitcases and head to the airport. After arriving there and getting a drink, I realized that I didn’t have my cell phone with me…after a few calls on my friends phone to make sure the urgent people knew how to get hold of me, I gave up and waited for my plane. I traveled with 3fingeredsalute and we had a lovely Indian woman between us. She was in turn amused and fascinated with our banter…until I collapsed in a comatose heap and slept…or would have if the AH in front of me wouldn’t keep trying to take up every inch of my space. I was happy to leave the plane.
FINDING HOME
We headed out and took the mapquest directions, which only put us through one toll, but got us there quickly. We stopped at a wallmart/grocery store and got some alcohol, snacks, a watch and nailpolish, since I forgot to pack it…well, I wasn’t working, I can wear a watch and nailpolish…it’s my rebellion. We check in and hear that some of the other rooms were double booked, but ours was fine. Good, in we go and after unpacking and reorganizing, we went to sleep.
BREAKFAST WITH RENNIES
I awoke at 7 to start getting ready. I had curled my hair the night before, since I wasn’t doing the traditional braids here…again, not working and the hair was shorter since MDRF ended. When 3fingered went in for his shower, I went downstairs for the slightly better than continental breakfast. They had bananas and hard boiled eggs which were good for me. While there, I met up with a family in garb. Amused, I noted it would have been ok to come down partially dressed, but given the costume, I knew I couldn’t do that…it’s a no separate chemise dress and if it’s not laced tightly, well, it’s IS a courtesan dress. After a quick breakfast, I head back to the room and we prepare for the day. We head out a bit late, but too badly.
HERE WE ARE!
If they have an opening gate show, we missed it by 10 minutes. I was completely dressed and we headed out upon arrival. I was in turquoise silk and blue feathers, he was in mustard and cream with green tights. As we get to the path, I am already greeted by a familiar and friendly face. Billy billy von Billy and I exchange hugs. We met many years ago through an older incarnation of AFR and have had many discussions on comedy since. We share hugs and 3fingered and I travel in. We are asked if we want to get costumes…and I give the man the traditional Columbina look…and the accent clicks in. I have to stop that…We head to the gate and pick up our tickets. Then we enter…God bless the patience of 3fingered, because every few steps, we either heard “Columbina” or my shriek of “Oh, I have to see them!” This is a much smaller world than I keep remembering. Inside I see Issac Fawlkes who is 1/ 2 the man he used to be. He looks fabulous actually. We joke about how between he and his wife, they have lost a full couple. I am glad to see him good spirits. Next, I stop by the Nubian to give him a message from Elizabeth of the Tudor Tarts. He is pleased to hear from her, though he doesn’t move much to show it. [3Fingered’s remark: He moved, mostly in his smile]
AND MORE AND MORE
Next I stop in Jezzard and Jezzard’s to surprise them. Well, Bill knew I was coming, but I surprised the lovely lady, who kindly fixed my hair since I hadn’t gotten it up firmly enough. I stop next at Excalibur to say hello to our benefactor, who, it turns out, didn’t realize she was going to be one. It’s hard to say thank you to someone who doesn’t realize they did something kind for you. Lovely lady anyway. We head out and stop to see the Tights Goddess, who is swamped and can’t stop to say hi. About there, we see Frank, the man who almost didn’t make it but did after all. It was great to finally spend time with him when I wasn’t working. He got to hear my real voice and I got to enjoy his company. While walking, I see a very colorful man in the distance and am sure we are approaching the Fairy Godfather. [3Fingered’s remark: Today, he was in green and yellow plaid, including his beard. That’s right… I said “plaid beard”.] Actually, he had bright pink and plaid..his rain gear. Frank is a bit of a celebrity as he is a wonderful photographer, so many people stop to say hello to him and I step back and let him enjoy the limited time he has. We are already scheduled to meet at Arsene’s show, so after 3fingered stops for an empanada and me for a leg of lamb…on a stick…we make one more stop together.
FRIENDLY FACES AND MEMORIES MADE
Frank mentions he wants to stop by Pendragon, and I am all for that, as I have been casual friends with them since they visited MDRF years ago. Upon arrival, I am immediately recognized by Eamon, who is surprised that I remembered him…um, head scratches and purring? Duh, not gonna forget that easily. I am saddened to hear that his lovely wife is not in full form and tell him to send my love to the back area to her when she is up to it. We say hello to the others in the booth and then head back out to the streets.
MORE TO SEE
Well another 40 some acres probably. If you haven’t been there, the site is HUGE, I mean, really HUGE. Many companies have 2-3 shoppes selling the same stuff. The jousting field is built like a Greek amphitheater. Not being one for jousts, we didn’t stay for those. 3fingered was being very gentlemanly and not making many if any demands on our time. We did stop back at a few shops with some gorgeous furniture (right near the Globe) and another one that has a clock I am lusting after, but, ironically, is the only one he is not selling…probably better for me anyway. I shouldn’t be spending $300 on a clock, no matter how pretty it is. Oh, the leg of lamb was only ok. It was roasted like the turkey legs are so it was lacking some of the flavor I love. The empanada was tasty.
ARSENE AND THE ODEON
We find our way to the Odeon, designed like a classic greek [Roman?] style stage…well, it had sculpture in alcoves. Soon after we arrive, a violinist comes out and begins playing. Soon after, Arsene joins the crowd and spends nearly 5-10 minutes picking on the crowd before he even starts. He is in the world of traditional European clowning. I just finished a conference about this work the day before, so I am spending a lot of the time looking at his use of callbacks, actouts, and other comedy writing formats. He is very skilled and pulls a few random people out of the crowd. Non costumed, but that wasn’t too hard there, as there seemed to be a strong lack of full on costumed patrons. I enjoyed his work, but couldn’t help making comparisons between him and other clowns of his similar genre. I won’t share them here; each “clown” has his or her own merits. The only thing I will comment on is that his costume was DECIDEDLY not period in any way shape or form…and that always bothers me in the performing staff. His back up staff (violinist and other lady) were fine, but he was in a modern colorful vest and standard black pants/white shirt. He used a top hat in the routine…these things bother me a lot. I admit clearly that I am not perfect in that world, but I try to keep as much as possible within the world for the audience. Rant off.
ART IN THE AUDIENCE
This is a hat pass show, so having singles on hand is essential. Otherwise, you find yourself in the awkward position of wanting to show your appreciation, but not being able to unless you break your bank. Luckily, we had no problems, but I had to keep keeping an eye on my pouch when we considered seeing a show. I hate that. After the crowd was clearing, Frank asked me to pose by the goddess-like sculpture on the stage. The wind picked up, but hopefully the pics are ok. We head back out and back toward Pendragon.
WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE
Ok, so I had gotten assistance to get her from “Handsome Joseph” who was unable to be there that weekend. When I arrive near Pendragon, however, I am surprised by the site of Colorado Dave of the Rocky Mountain Dave’s. I find out he knew I was coming weeks ago and had even provided Joseph with info. Bastages. Find. I am greeted warmly…and we have photographic proof. I introduce 3fingered around and are informed that they are heading out to see Sound and Fury’s next show. I haven’t seen Richard and gang in forever, so we join along. Again, I see more faces I know and am introduced around to other who may or may not have been to MD. Sound and Fury is having one of those technical hell shows as 1, Richard’s mic keeps going in and out, even after a battery change, 2, it tries to rain TWICE during the show, and 3, well actually, besides that, it seemed to go ok. They have a new Scrotus since I had seen it last and many jokes have changed. I am still amused and 3fingered, who is new, is more amused. I note to him that Shelby was the “everybody else” role in Shrew prior to Mike, Jim and Mike out at MD and NC. Would be nice to try the show with him one time…no offence to elvisolb.
NEVER A MOMENT, BUT LALA ALL THE SAME
After the show, I see the DVD wench, Lala to the side, I wait till she is done greeting and selling, since the boys noted they are surviving ONLY on tips this weekend and I don’t want to get in the way of food. I finally get to say hello to the beautiful woman and much amusement is had as Frank takes a few photos of the boys adoring her, which she so richly deserves. After a few preempted attempts to say hello to Richard (one during hawking and one after he realized he had to drive to the other side of the site). I note I will try to meet up with him after his last show. We head off and after some more shopping, we note that the commedia troupe is playing. I was only able to stay for about 5 minutes and did not introduce myself, but there was much to see. We head to where we thought Sound and Fury was and find Ded Bob instead. Wasn’t in the mood to watch him make children beg for his money, so we traveled on.
SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES
We head into more shops, like the wood mug shop where the lovely lady knew Dan the Master Joyner and I was able to share the little news I had. I also shared this info with Dra at the house of Dra. My cohort tried on a lovely shirt, but sadly, it wasn’t available in the size/color he needed. Perhaps another time. It was good to visit. We stop by a music shop and I get a ratched comedy music sounding thing…ok, fine, I don’t know the technical term, but it was lovely. We see where tomorrow’s feast would be and stop at the Jousting Field again. 3fingered has me sit to take a picture and I know the costume is ok when a random female patrons asks as well. Earlier in the day, we stopped by the pub and I could not find a beverage that suited me, though 3fingered had two. I held his for him. Now, we stop by the candy/espresso shop and both get beverages. Well, I get the turtle fudge (OMG) and an espresso. I am gifted with both a sample of the Russian Tea from down the street and a rock candy sugar stick for my espresso. It is yummers, but too sweet for 3fingered. We wander and eat. Again, we are asked for our picture together.
THE BELLS THE BELLS
LORD it was hot. Like, early September MD hot. We find one of the gardens and head into it looking for the carrillion (?) show we have heard a great deal about. We hear the bells around us as we walk through the natural setting. It was odd, but beautiful. I liked the copper tree like thingy at the one end. We exited and found ourselves in Sherwood Forest. There were more of the huge swingsets that I found so pretty, and none of the Kidapults (as 3fingered named them). I think the people who fling the children have more fun than the flinging kids. We hear the bells and follow the sounds. We hear the last two songs. The sound is HUGE and when the gentleman tries to speak after the Carmina Burana, he is almost silent, even though I am sure he is yelling under his black hood. 3fingered likes the sound and purchases the entire set. I am amused as I again head into “worker” mode and begin to almost help selling the music by clarifying pricing and helping people find which CD has which sound. I do wish he used less electronica in the music, but his skills are not to be doubted.
INTO THE MOUTH OF THE DRAGON
We head back to Pendragon after circling around and stopping to watch the end of To The Hilt. I was pleased to see a male/female sword act. 3fingered was really impressed. Could have been her pretty eyes, but you never can tell. Next, at the pub, we run into another familiar face, Christophe the Insulter is here and doing what he does in the pubs. He notes there is an adult “21 and we mean it” show in the inside pub if we want to visit. It is beginning to get dark, so we head back and make arrangements for the evening’s potluck. We did not prepare (read, bring a change of clothing) so we agree to suffer to enjoy the crowd. We head over to the arena for the fire works…yes gang, they have fireworks at the end of their day. I do still feel they are DECIDEDLY out of period, unless we were in china, and the energy in the arena rang loudly of “Disney” with the neon glow in the dark toys being sold. The fireworks were shot off to bagpipes (Tartanic, I think). I don’t see EJ who I have also been searching for…one of the phone numbers I did not locate in my lost cell phone issue. The Nubian is on our side of the stage, and when I greet him, he gives me a specific gift/message to offer Elizabeth…interesting.
RELIEF
Back at Pendragon, we are let in and chat with them as they de garb and detox. They kindly (and miraculously) find clothing that both of us can wear and we change out of garb. We head over to the potluck and catch up with many people I have met at MD, during today, or have yet to meet. While discussing what I do, I hear from the side..,.”wait, YOU’RE STUPINA?!?! I LOVE you!” Wow. Nice to be remembered in such a way. We chat a bit about what I do more and I am regaled over and over with “you have to meet Ernesto”. He used to run the commedia troupe here years ago and the crowd feels there is a simpatico that should be addressed. Eventually, dinner is done, many are heading away and we need to get home. We wander…getting lost in the dark for a while, and finally get to our car. Back at the hotel, we change and begin to pack while trying desperately to drink all the stuff we got. We realize this is futile and prepare a gift bag for the people who have helped us so kindly. I start packing and organizing tomorrow’s stuff, since I know I will have to get partially dressed on site…hoops skirts don’t travel well. Then, shower, and sleep.
DAY THE SECOND
This is to be a shorter one, so we start to move as early as possible. Ok, Sort of. I do get more dressed before I head downstairs, after loading up the car, etc. 3fingered is running a bit slower as he still has to do all his packing etc. We check out with a slightly off comment from the desk clerk and head out to the show. We get in the same lane, but WAY farther down. Bummer, I liked the closeness of the day before. Once in, we head directly to Pendragon to return our borrowed clothing. Next, we head around slowly, but realize we have to be at the indoor pub for the show by no later than 10:30. On the way, we stop at indulgences and 3fingered looks at the cigar selection while I am tempted by the ports, and the gentlemen selling them. I restrain myself and look at the shop next door, where I am pleased to tell them that the espresso man speaks very highly of their wares and they are getting good press. Next, we stop at the show and check in.
KILLING TIME
We browse the inside shop and then cross the way to Sofi’s Stiches. Sofi is not there, but I share the tale of her kindness to me in St. Louis so many years ago. We dress 3fingered again (yes, I am an enabler) but we don’t find quite the right look and it’s time for the show. In we head. We get a front row table stage left. I am sitting mostly behind a pole, but that is not bad. The characters inside are amusing. I am expecting the same heat as the day before, so less than two glasses of wine for me. I cheat and have a piece of bread and only get slightly draggy, but I needed it for the cheese I had. It’s a kind older couple on our other side and extremely rude/loud burpy people behind us. I am glad I didn’t hear much of it, though 3fingered was decidedly unamused by the gentleman’s barrage of cheap comments and as 3fingered noted: “pay attention to me” cries for attention. I am asked to be one of the ladies to walk the course signs across the stage. [3fingered’s remarks: And she set the bar for anyone unlucky enough to follow her professionally trained lead.]
RULES OF THE MEAL
So there are a few rules at the meal, one of which includes that if you want to leave the table, you have to ask permission and compliment or offer information to the Duchess. Um, no worries there. When the corset and liquid combo has gotten too much for me, I ask Monsieur Ala Mode to get the Duchess’ attention. He calls her over and as I go to compliment her, I can see he is trying to lean over me enough so that his mic will pick up my compliment. Comparing her glow to Apollo, her wisdom to Artemis, etc…hey, I learned that stuff well back home. I am glowingly given permission to relieve myself. I am informed that after I left, 3fingered is complimented at having a lady with such a skilled mouth…BWAHAHAHAHA. Off I went to the “confessionals” after almost walking into the men’s one and being turned around told “go there later tonight” by a serving wench.
ETTIQUETTE
Well, those that are badly mannered have to pass a redemption test to get a special gift from the duchess, who is getting decidedly drunk by this point. (in character of course). The gypsies, the Art of Defense, the Pirates and others stop in. I am sad that I don’t hear one traditional song…not one standard to bring the camaraderie together. In fact, I think that is the one thing I felt was most lacking. While there was good music, it was all “unusual” nothing that makes one think of hanging out in a pub and drinking with friends. Maybe I missed the groups that did that. But I was feeling that ache for something that I can hear everywhere…like going into temple and knowing the Sh’ma will be made…something you can count on. Ah well. The food was good, the entertainment was good, the wine was average (but, I AM a bit of a wine snob). At the end of the meal, they asked for tips for the servers and entertainers. Ah well, it is a hat pass show.
FACES NEW TO LEARN
As I exit, I inform Monsieur A la Mode of my origins and he is amused. We also share a thought from 3fingered that could be an amusing character option for him in future. I do not get to introduce myself to the Duchess as I am stopped by a gentleman who asks my name. He informs me HE is Ernesto and he has also been accosted by people who demand that we have to meet. We stop and chat while 3fingered wanders off to find a gift we needed for a friend. Ernesto and I get lost in talk of masks and history, commedia and form, etc. 3fingered returns and we head to Indulgences to let him do just that. He gets his cigar and he treats all 3 of us to port. The waiter also travels to the chocolate shop for me to get me a chocolate to go with mine. We chat more. I think we spent over 1 ½ hours chatting. He introduces me to Lucretia Borgia, the Goodboinkin Sisters and others. We head back toward Pendragon as we are running out of time. We say our goodbyes to him and head back to say goodbye to our friends. One lady asks 3fingered where his wife is so she can say goodbye to me…BWAHAHAHA. Um, no, but thanks for the kind thought. Now we know why she was looking at him funny when he flirted with her…I do say my goodbyes to her, as she was a very sweet, if misguided lady.
FAREWELLS
We hug friends, get stopped many times over to say good bye, see Sound and Fury on stage..again, making it impossible to say good bye, let alone hello, and head out. We meet up with To The Hilt and chat with both of them sharing information on mutual friends. Nice to meet friendly faces on a break. We finally make our way to the car, change in the parking lot, repack for the airport and make our way out. We get a bit lost on the way, but make it in time, which is good, cause after we got our tickets and checked our bags, we realized he left stuff in the rental car and we had to go back for it. The Budget guy drives to the main lot and finds our stuff and returns it to us, we head back to the airport and have time to get food before our plane boards. We sleep…ok, I sleep on the way home and he chats with the lady between us. Upon arrival, we get our bags, find our ride and they drop me off home. Much sleepiness ensues.
REGRETS
I am so very sorry that I did not get to find everyone, do everything, have long chats with everyone, or get the best quality time with everyone we wanted to. We did not get into the petting Zoo, see an Iris and Rose show, go to the other inside pub, ride a swing, find EJ, see Issac Fawlkes show, launch any unsuspecting children with the Kidapult, or many other things we could have tried with another weekend. We did traverse the entire site and visited many shops. Saw many things we loved and many others we didn’t care about. We chatted with the empanada lady and told her of how much people spoke of her wares. We even filled out the prize drawing card and amused myself with how many faires I have been to or worked at over my years of doing this.
If I missed you, perhaps another time, or maybe this is the perfect excuse for you to visit MDRF? Hrm?
VIVA LAS TEXAS
I left a conference I was at to quickly change over suitcases and head to the airport. After arriving there and getting a drink, I realized that I didn’t have my cell phone with me…after a few calls on my friends phone to make sure the urgent people knew how to get hold of me, I gave up and waited for my plane. I traveled with 3fingeredsalute and we had a lovely Indian woman between us. She was in turn amused and fascinated with our banter…until I collapsed in a comatose heap and slept…or would have if the AH in front of me wouldn’t keep trying to take up every inch of my space. I was happy to leave the plane.
FINDING HOME
We headed out and took the mapquest directions, which only put us through one toll, but got us there quickly. We stopped at a wallmart/grocery store and got some alcohol, snacks, a watch and nailpolish, since I forgot to pack it…well, I wasn’t working, I can wear a watch and nailpolish…it’s my rebellion. We check in and hear that some of the other rooms were double booked, but ours was fine. Good, in we go and after unpacking and reorganizing, we went to sleep.
BREAKFAST WITH RENNIES
I awoke at 7 to start getting ready. I had curled my hair the night before, since I wasn’t doing the traditional braids here…again, not working and the hair was shorter since MDRF ended. When 3fingered went in for his shower, I went downstairs for the slightly better than continental breakfast. They had bananas and hard boiled eggs which were good for me. While there, I met up with a family in garb. Amused, I noted it would have been ok to come down partially dressed, but given the costume, I knew I couldn’t do that…it’s a no separate chemise dress and if it’s not laced tightly, well, it’s IS a courtesan dress. After a quick breakfast, I head back to the room and we prepare for the day. We head out a bit late, but too badly.
HERE WE ARE!
If they have an opening gate show, we missed it by 10 minutes. I was completely dressed and we headed out upon arrival. I was in turquoise silk and blue feathers, he was in mustard and cream with green tights. As we get to the path, I am already greeted by a familiar and friendly face. Billy billy von Billy and I exchange hugs. We met many years ago through an older incarnation of AFR and have had many discussions on comedy since. We share hugs and 3fingered and I travel in. We are asked if we want to get costumes…and I give the man the traditional Columbina look…and the accent clicks in. I have to stop that…We head to the gate and pick up our tickets. Then we enter…God bless the patience of 3fingered, because every few steps, we either heard “Columbina” or my shriek of “Oh, I have to see them!” This is a much smaller world than I keep remembering. Inside I see Issac Fawlkes who is 1/ 2 the man he used to be. He looks fabulous actually. We joke about how between he and his wife, they have lost a full couple. I am glad to see him good spirits. Next, I stop by the Nubian to give him a message from Elizabeth of the Tudor Tarts. He is pleased to hear from her, though he doesn’t move much to show it. [3Fingered’s remark: He moved, mostly in his smile]
AND MORE AND MORE
Next I stop in Jezzard and Jezzard’s to surprise them. Well, Bill knew I was coming, but I surprised the lovely lady, who kindly fixed my hair since I hadn’t gotten it up firmly enough. I stop next at Excalibur to say hello to our benefactor, who, it turns out, didn’t realize she was going to be one. It’s hard to say thank you to someone who doesn’t realize they did something kind for you. Lovely lady anyway. We head out and stop to see the Tights Goddess, who is swamped and can’t stop to say hi. About there, we see Frank, the man who almost didn’t make it but did after all. It was great to finally spend time with him when I wasn’t working. He got to hear my real voice and I got to enjoy his company. While walking, I see a very colorful man in the distance and am sure we are approaching the Fairy Godfather. [3Fingered’s remark: Today, he was in green and yellow plaid, including his beard. That’s right… I said “plaid beard”.] Actually, he had bright pink and plaid..his rain gear. Frank is a bit of a celebrity as he is a wonderful photographer, so many people stop to say hello to him and I step back and let him enjoy the limited time he has. We are already scheduled to meet at Arsene’s show, so after 3fingered stops for an empanada and me for a leg of lamb…on a stick…we make one more stop together.
FRIENDLY FACES AND MEMORIES MADE
Frank mentions he wants to stop by Pendragon, and I am all for that, as I have been casual friends with them since they visited MDRF years ago. Upon arrival, I am immediately recognized by Eamon, who is surprised that I remembered him…um, head scratches and purring? Duh, not gonna forget that easily. I am saddened to hear that his lovely wife is not in full form and tell him to send my love to the back area to her when she is up to it. We say hello to the others in the booth and then head back out to the streets.
MORE TO SEE
Well another 40 some acres probably. If you haven’t been there, the site is HUGE, I mean, really HUGE. Many companies have 2-3 shoppes selling the same stuff. The jousting field is built like a Greek amphitheater. Not being one for jousts, we didn’t stay for those. 3fingered was being very gentlemanly and not making many if any demands on our time. We did stop back at a few shops with some gorgeous furniture (right near the Globe) and another one that has a clock I am lusting after, but, ironically, is the only one he is not selling…probably better for me anyway. I shouldn’t be spending $300 on a clock, no matter how pretty it is. Oh, the leg of lamb was only ok. It was roasted like the turkey legs are so it was lacking some of the flavor I love. The empanada was tasty.
ARSENE AND THE ODEON
We find our way to the Odeon, designed like a classic greek [Roman?] style stage…well, it had sculpture in alcoves. Soon after we arrive, a violinist comes out and begins playing. Soon after, Arsene joins the crowd and spends nearly 5-10 minutes picking on the crowd before he even starts. He is in the world of traditional European clowning. I just finished a conference about this work the day before, so I am spending a lot of the time looking at his use of callbacks, actouts, and other comedy writing formats. He is very skilled and pulls a few random people out of the crowd. Non costumed, but that wasn’t too hard there, as there seemed to be a strong lack of full on costumed patrons. I enjoyed his work, but couldn’t help making comparisons between him and other clowns of his similar genre. I won’t share them here; each “clown” has his or her own merits. The only thing I will comment on is that his costume was DECIDEDLY not period in any way shape or form…and that always bothers me in the performing staff. His back up staff (violinist and other lady) were fine, but he was in a modern colorful vest and standard black pants/white shirt. He used a top hat in the routine…these things bother me a lot. I admit clearly that I am not perfect in that world, but I try to keep as much as possible within the world for the audience. Rant off.
ART IN THE AUDIENCE
This is a hat pass show, so having singles on hand is essential. Otherwise, you find yourself in the awkward position of wanting to show your appreciation, but not being able to unless you break your bank. Luckily, we had no problems, but I had to keep keeping an eye on my pouch when we considered seeing a show. I hate that. After the crowd was clearing, Frank asked me to pose by the goddess-like sculpture on the stage. The wind picked up, but hopefully the pics are ok. We head back out and back toward Pendragon.
WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE
Ok, so I had gotten assistance to get her from “Handsome Joseph” who was unable to be there that weekend. When I arrive near Pendragon, however, I am surprised by the site of Colorado Dave of the Rocky Mountain Dave’s. I find out he knew I was coming weeks ago and had even provided Joseph with info. Bastages. Find. I am greeted warmly…and we have photographic proof. I introduce 3fingered around and are informed that they are heading out to see Sound and Fury’s next show. I haven’t seen Richard and gang in forever, so we join along. Again, I see more faces I know and am introduced around to other who may or may not have been to MD. Sound and Fury is having one of those technical hell shows as 1, Richard’s mic keeps going in and out, even after a battery change, 2, it tries to rain TWICE during the show, and 3, well actually, besides that, it seemed to go ok. They have a new Scrotus since I had seen it last and many jokes have changed. I am still amused and 3fingered, who is new, is more amused. I note to him that Shelby was the “everybody else” role in Shrew prior to Mike, Jim and Mike out at MD and NC. Would be nice to try the show with him one time…no offence to elvisolb.
NEVER A MOMENT, BUT LALA ALL THE SAME
After the show, I see the DVD wench, Lala to the side, I wait till she is done greeting and selling, since the boys noted they are surviving ONLY on tips this weekend and I don’t want to get in the way of food. I finally get to say hello to the beautiful woman and much amusement is had as Frank takes a few photos of the boys adoring her, which she so richly deserves. After a few preempted attempts to say hello to Richard (one during hawking and one after he realized he had to drive to the other side of the site). I note I will try to meet up with him after his last show. We head off and after some more shopping, we note that the commedia troupe is playing. I was only able to stay for about 5 minutes and did not introduce myself, but there was much to see. We head to where we thought Sound and Fury was and find Ded Bob instead. Wasn’t in the mood to watch him make children beg for his money, so we traveled on.
SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES
We head into more shops, like the wood mug shop where the lovely lady knew Dan the Master Joyner and I was able to share the little news I had. I also shared this info with Dra at the house of Dra. My cohort tried on a lovely shirt, but sadly, it wasn’t available in the size/color he needed. Perhaps another time. It was good to visit. We stop by a music shop and I get a ratched comedy music sounding thing…ok, fine, I don’t know the technical term, but it was lovely. We see where tomorrow’s feast would be and stop at the Jousting Field again. 3fingered has me sit to take a picture and I know the costume is ok when a random female patrons asks as well. Earlier in the day, we stopped by the pub and I could not find a beverage that suited me, though 3fingered had two. I held his for him. Now, we stop by the candy/espresso shop and both get beverages. Well, I get the turtle fudge (OMG) and an espresso. I am gifted with both a sample of the Russian Tea from down the street and a rock candy sugar stick for my espresso. It is yummers, but too sweet for 3fingered. We wander and eat. Again, we are asked for our picture together.
THE BELLS THE BELLS
LORD it was hot. Like, early September MD hot. We find one of the gardens and head into it looking for the carrillion (?) show we have heard a great deal about. We hear the bells around us as we walk through the natural setting. It was odd, but beautiful. I liked the copper tree like thingy at the one end. We exited and found ourselves in Sherwood Forest. There were more of the huge swingsets that I found so pretty, and none of the Kidapults (as 3fingered named them). I think the people who fling the children have more fun than the flinging kids. We hear the bells and follow the sounds. We hear the last two songs. The sound is HUGE and when the gentleman tries to speak after the Carmina Burana, he is almost silent, even though I am sure he is yelling under his black hood. 3fingered likes the sound and purchases the entire set. I am amused as I again head into “worker” mode and begin to almost help selling the music by clarifying pricing and helping people find which CD has which sound. I do wish he used less electronica in the music, but his skills are not to be doubted.
INTO THE MOUTH OF THE DRAGON
We head back to Pendragon after circling around and stopping to watch the end of To The Hilt. I was pleased to see a male/female sword act. 3fingered was really impressed. Could have been her pretty eyes, but you never can tell. Next, at the pub, we run into another familiar face, Christophe the Insulter is here and doing what he does in the pubs. He notes there is an adult “21 and we mean it” show in the inside pub if we want to visit. It is beginning to get dark, so we head back and make arrangements for the evening’s potluck. We did not prepare (read, bring a change of clothing) so we agree to suffer to enjoy the crowd. We head over to the arena for the fire works…yes gang, they have fireworks at the end of their day. I do still feel they are DECIDEDLY out of period, unless we were in china, and the energy in the arena rang loudly of “Disney” with the neon glow in the dark toys being sold. The fireworks were shot off to bagpipes (Tartanic, I think). I don’t see EJ who I have also been searching for…one of the phone numbers I did not locate in my lost cell phone issue. The Nubian is on our side of the stage, and when I greet him, he gives me a specific gift/message to offer Elizabeth…interesting.
RELIEF
Back at Pendragon, we are let in and chat with them as they de garb and detox. They kindly (and miraculously) find clothing that both of us can wear and we change out of garb. We head over to the potluck and catch up with many people I have met at MD, during today, or have yet to meet. While discussing what I do, I hear from the side..,.”wait, YOU’RE STUPINA?!?! I LOVE you!” Wow. Nice to be remembered in such a way. We chat a bit about what I do more and I am regaled over and over with “you have to meet Ernesto”. He used to run the commedia troupe here years ago and the crowd feels there is a simpatico that should be addressed. Eventually, dinner is done, many are heading away and we need to get home. We wander…getting lost in the dark for a while, and finally get to our car. Back at the hotel, we change and begin to pack while trying desperately to drink all the stuff we got. We realize this is futile and prepare a gift bag for the people who have helped us so kindly. I start packing and organizing tomorrow’s stuff, since I know I will have to get partially dressed on site…hoops skirts don’t travel well. Then, shower, and sleep.
DAY THE SECOND
This is to be a shorter one, so we start to move as early as possible. Ok, Sort of. I do get more dressed before I head downstairs, after loading up the car, etc. 3fingered is running a bit slower as he still has to do all his packing etc. We check out with a slightly off comment from the desk clerk and head out to the show. We get in the same lane, but WAY farther down. Bummer, I liked the closeness of the day before. Once in, we head directly to Pendragon to return our borrowed clothing. Next, we head around slowly, but realize we have to be at the indoor pub for the show by no later than 10:30. On the way, we stop at indulgences and 3fingered looks at the cigar selection while I am tempted by the ports, and the gentlemen selling them. I restrain myself and look at the shop next door, where I am pleased to tell them that the espresso man speaks very highly of their wares and they are getting good press. Next, we stop at the show and check in.
KILLING TIME
We browse the inside shop and then cross the way to Sofi’s Stiches. Sofi is not there, but I share the tale of her kindness to me in St. Louis so many years ago. We dress 3fingered again (yes, I am an enabler) but we don’t find quite the right look and it’s time for the show. In we head. We get a front row table stage left. I am sitting mostly behind a pole, but that is not bad. The characters inside are amusing. I am expecting the same heat as the day before, so less than two glasses of wine for me. I cheat and have a piece of bread and only get slightly draggy, but I needed it for the cheese I had. It’s a kind older couple on our other side and extremely rude/loud burpy people behind us. I am glad I didn’t hear much of it, though 3fingered was decidedly unamused by the gentleman’s barrage of cheap comments and as 3fingered noted: “pay attention to me” cries for attention. I am asked to be one of the ladies to walk the course signs across the stage. [3fingered’s remarks: And she set the bar for anyone unlucky enough to follow her professionally trained lead.]
RULES OF THE MEAL
So there are a few rules at the meal, one of which includes that if you want to leave the table, you have to ask permission and compliment or offer information to the Duchess. Um, no worries there. When the corset and liquid combo has gotten too much for me, I ask Monsieur Ala Mode to get the Duchess’ attention. He calls her over and as I go to compliment her, I can see he is trying to lean over me enough so that his mic will pick up my compliment. Comparing her glow to Apollo, her wisdom to Artemis, etc…hey, I learned that stuff well back home. I am glowingly given permission to relieve myself. I am informed that after I left, 3fingered is complimented at having a lady with such a skilled mouth…BWAHAHAHAHA. Off I went to the “confessionals” after almost walking into the men’s one and being turned around told “go there later tonight” by a serving wench.
ETTIQUETTE
Well, those that are badly mannered have to pass a redemption test to get a special gift from the duchess, who is getting decidedly drunk by this point. (in character of course). The gypsies, the Art of Defense, the Pirates and others stop in. I am sad that I don’t hear one traditional song…not one standard to bring the camaraderie together. In fact, I think that is the one thing I felt was most lacking. While there was good music, it was all “unusual” nothing that makes one think of hanging out in a pub and drinking with friends. Maybe I missed the groups that did that. But I was feeling that ache for something that I can hear everywhere…like going into temple and knowing the Sh’ma will be made…something you can count on. Ah well. The food was good, the entertainment was good, the wine was average (but, I AM a bit of a wine snob). At the end of the meal, they asked for tips for the servers and entertainers. Ah well, it is a hat pass show.
FACES NEW TO LEARN
As I exit, I inform Monsieur A la Mode of my origins and he is amused. We also share a thought from 3fingered that could be an amusing character option for him in future. I do not get to introduce myself to the Duchess as I am stopped by a gentleman who asks my name. He informs me HE is Ernesto and he has also been accosted by people who demand that we have to meet. We stop and chat while 3fingered wanders off to find a gift we needed for a friend. Ernesto and I get lost in talk of masks and history, commedia and form, etc. 3fingered returns and we head to Indulgences to let him do just that. He gets his cigar and he treats all 3 of us to port. The waiter also travels to the chocolate shop for me to get me a chocolate to go with mine. We chat more. I think we spent over 1 ½ hours chatting. He introduces me to Lucretia Borgia, the Goodboinkin Sisters and others. We head back toward Pendragon as we are running out of time. We say our goodbyes to him and head back to say goodbye to our friends. One lady asks 3fingered where his wife is so she can say goodbye to me…BWAHAHAHA. Um, no, but thanks for the kind thought. Now we know why she was looking at him funny when he flirted with her…I do say my goodbyes to her, as she was a very sweet, if misguided lady.
FAREWELLS
We hug friends, get stopped many times over to say good bye, see Sound and Fury on stage..again, making it impossible to say good bye, let alone hello, and head out. We meet up with To The Hilt and chat with both of them sharing information on mutual friends. Nice to meet friendly faces on a break. We finally make our way to the car, change in the parking lot, repack for the airport and make our way out. We get a bit lost on the way, but make it in time, which is good, cause after we got our tickets and checked our bags, we realized he left stuff in the rental car and we had to go back for it. The Budget guy drives to the main lot and finds our stuff and returns it to us, we head back to the airport and have time to get food before our plane boards. We sleep…ok, I sleep on the way home and he chats with the lady between us. Upon arrival, we get our bags, find our ride and they drop me off home. Much sleepiness ensues.
REGRETS
I am so very sorry that I did not get to find everyone, do everything, have long chats with everyone, or get the best quality time with everyone we wanted to. We did not get into the petting Zoo, see an Iris and Rose show, go to the other inside pub, ride a swing, find EJ, see Issac Fawlkes show, launch any unsuspecting children with the Kidapult, or many other things we could have tried with another weekend. We did traverse the entire site and visited many shops. Saw many things we loved and many others we didn’t care about. We chatted with the empanada lady and told her of how much people spoke of her wares. We even filled out the prize drawing card and amused myself with how many faires I have been to or worked at over my years of doing this.
If I missed you, perhaps another time, or maybe this is the perfect excuse for you to visit MDRF? Hrm?
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Date: 2005-11-21 02:56 am (UTC)empanadas
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Date: 2005-11-21 03:48 am (UTC)*HUGS*
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Date: 2005-11-21 04:48 am (UTC)I think you guys would love it.
Wonderful recap, Michele.
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Date: 2005-11-21 04:15 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2005-12-06 04:45 am (UTC)Always been a joy for me.