Another Level

Just when I thought I could not be anymore nerdy I actually managed to reach yet another level of nerdom. Which is it though? Have I surpassed geek and made it to ultimate nerd? Probably. Although in my defense, I have never, nor will I ever attend a Star Trek convention. I am sure you're wondering what this new level is. Well, I shall enlighten you.

Last night I attended my first ever Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) meeting. You know, the people who are all dressed up as knights and ladies? Yeah, I went there. And it was fantastic! I knew it was going to be a perfect fit when I overheard one of the members talking about fighting on the battlefield to "defend His Majesty" who was fighting next to him at Pennsic last year. Freakin' awesome! Definitely my kind of people.

At first I was really nervous about showing up. I have been thinking about joining the SCA for a few years now but really have too chicken to try it out on my own. Thankfully, everyone there was was very welcoming and warm. They were actually excited to see me there even though they had never met me. I sat in on their business meeting which was a lesson to all of us in other organizations on how to be quick and efficient while still accomplishing things, played with their two big dogs, discussed a better way to make Tudor sleeves and how to make a Tudor corset, and generally had fun! I can't wait to go back.

One of the women there has a masters in costume design and offered to help me create my garb. This will be a bonus. Bottom line: I had fun! I think I shall be returning.







The King and Queen of the Midrealm. (My sovereigns.)











P.S. I hope I'm not being overly obsessive. In other words, I hope this isn't a fad for me.

Harrison the Ford

Oh happy day! Finally I will be getting a car, my own mode of transportation, freedom. And it's not just any car; it's Harrison the Ford! Which honestly makes the whole thing that much sweeter. Thank you Kate for making my week. :)

Oh Happy Day!

Thank you Cat! I am getting a singer sewing machine!!!
No more borrowing and begging, I will have my own and can work on my projects whenever I please. :)

Diary of an Overly Ambitious Costumer

Finally, I have settled on what to be for Halloween. I've been through my customary month long period of indecision and have decided to go as Ann Boleyn. Woo hoo! Should be a fabulously complex, yet relatively easy project. . . I think.
I've always wanted to do a Tudor gown and I can use it more than once. Michigan renaissance Festival, watch out here I come!

While doing research for the gown and French hood I happened upon several amazing dress diaries, how to's if you will. I've always wanted to do one of my own so perhaps now is a perfect opportunity to start. I'm pretty sure I'll have to write myself reminder sticky notes though, since I'm likely to forget to take pictures and post. But I think I'm up to the challenge.

Maleficent and the Queen of Hearts shall have to wait until another year.

Historical Thoughts

I spent this past weekend out at Waterloo Farm with Audrey and the rest of the Michigan Soldier's Aid Society presenting Victorian mourning practices to the public. We began with a fashion show on the stages of mourning, deep mourning, second mourning, third mourning, etc. Outside the farm house was the first stop for the public. There they were able to learn about mourning practices and superstitions, make a calling card, and make a mourning cockade to show their respect for the grieving family. Next they were ushered into the farm house's sitting room where a MSAS member would explain the significance of the original artifacts we had on display. The public was then instructed to enter the parlor through a black curtained doorway if they wished to pay their respects to the grieving family. In the parlor, the public saw a flower filled room with all picture frames, mirrors, and windows draped/covered in clack fabric. They also saw several MSAS members mourning over a coffin placed upon the table. In the parlor they were able to leave their calling cards and learn about what they saw and the reasons/superstitions behind it. At the end of the day we concluded with a period funeral precession and service.

It was wicked cool!

Sometimes I can get so wrapped up with trying to be authentic or making new dresses that I forget how new it all is to the public. It really is amazing to watching people learn and be fascinated with something that you have been able to bring to life for them in a way a history book never could. For the first time the past becomes real. You can see the realization on their faces when it hits that this actually happened, life used to be like this! I love that feeling!

I wish there was a way for me to do this for a living. . . . . .

The New Member Committee meeting went over well. We all agree which is great! And the e-board loved my brochure, so that's become my baby. (I am feeling important.) And I have decided to take on planning the Soldier's Aid Scenario for Greenfield Village next year. :) Life is good in the reenacting world.

I do however, wish that I had clothing for a deeper stage of mourning so I don't feel so left out or out of place. I've always wanted to do a widow impression. Damn, money sucks. Maybe next year. Although this is the year we happen to be doing two mourning events...

Note to Self:
Look up local historical societies and see which ones I could stage a take over of.

:)

We got the house!

I Hate Waiting

Next to playing games by the rules there is nothing I hate more than waiting. I am fairly certain Jesse and I are in agreement about the house. In fact, I know we both want it. So why haven't we sent an e-mail back to Nancy? Beats me.

Seriously, I've been walking around all week with this giddy anticipation knotted up in my stomach. And let me tell you, there's only so much a person can take.