Great Western War and this time I HAVE THE HAT

Two of the big October events are now behind us: Crown, and Great Western War. I had a very good time at War, as usual was a Bad Princess and didn't bring my parasol onto the field. By the end of War, Newt was holding his Mongol hat over me for shade.

We stayed in the same area as the Barony of Fettburg, and Raven and Brenna graciously offered us the use of their Barony sunshade. I bitched a lot about where West Royal encampment was, 'cause it was on low ground right next to the horse arena. Meanwhile, Darkclaw and various other groups got the land above us on a plateau with a view of the lake and islands. The only positive thing about our area was we had a dumpster about 100 feet away, which made cleaning up a breeze. 

We used a small propane tank every night to keep warm, which was wonderful. I took several outfits, including underdresses, and didn't wear them. Yet I wore a new outfit every day. 

Gwendwyn the Silent, Corina/Karen, Rachel/Adaran, Don Tiberius and his Lady Sikuna, Newt, Shishio, and Thalen attended me. Baroness Brenna took over water-bearing duties for our group. 

I got to shop, and bought a new thin leather belt and several items from Raymond's Quiet Press, and also told the gentles at Raymond's how much I appreciated their work and their reasonable prices. I went to the Princess' Tea, and hung out with Violante, who is now Crown Princess. I also went to the EQ championship, and hung out with the Royals. I schmoozed with Else Hungrovogt. 

We went to the Royal Reception and passed out and received gifts. We processed into Court (that's the picture above) but we just walked through and didn't stay. We hosted the Oerthans for dinner in the Barony pavilion one night. 

And on the very last night, we went to the Starkhafn leftover food and booze party and spoke with Count Sir Kevin Perigrynne and Countess Patrice, who used to be Baron and Baroness of Golden Rivers back when it was a Barony. And their stories were very illuminating; plus, Kevin was asking me questions that seemed to be aimed at whether Miach was a worthy Chiv candidate and at one point in time they both announced that we had PLQs which is very very nice. Because we try. 

Miach stayed until 3 am, but Newt escorted me back to camp, then he went back to find out more about shield walls from some fighters there. And Miach got some very good advice from Duke Tamuki, one of only two black Dukes in the SCA: Never pick your friends to fill important roles on Court, because they don't think of you as Royalty. Have to say I totally agree with that! 

All that's left now for October is Coronet. The roses are ordered, and plans have been made. 

Next month is mostly easy: little feasts, GRAB, Collegium. All one day and very low stress events that we're looking forward to. December is also easy, with Yule feasts. January is going to be the next big month, with Twelfth Night, Oertha Coronet, and Winter Investiture.