Seams Like a Lady

I’ve been taking a small break from all manner of projects. Too much hand sewing affects my shoulder and I was starting to feel it. I’ve been making cordials, which are (the way I’m doing it) not period, but tasty, amd don’t affect my shoulder at all. It is awakening a growing interest in brewing, though, and to that end I’ve promised my house to a friend who’s going to teach a class on mead in the fall. Most of all, I’ve been helping my husband prep for Stormgods! There were no A&S activities at the event, it’s the event with four different baronial championships for Stromgard. He and our baroness did the Lion’s share of the planning and executing, but as seneschal and wife both, I rode herd and dug in to help out.

Something that I love about this barony (and friends of the barony) is the willingness to come together and make a big event happen. We had approximately 230 people on site, which was amazing, but a lot of work. Her Excellency arranged for live music on Friday night, there were games, a trade blanket, and a party on Saturday night (smore-cutetie is rapidly becoming a part of Stromgard culture, thanks to Karrow and her Excellency), all in addition to four tournaments with a tradition and reputation for being grueling.

I got to run lists for the armored tournament, something I haven’t done in six years, and man I missed it! I am rusty, though, and a “thirsty thirteen” final round was a challenge in the best way. I could feel cobwebs in my brain clearing as it went. Other than that round, I was just keeping points and staying in the shade.

In final court I was surprised to receive an escort from the royal guards into their majesties’ presence, where I received a Goutte de Sang, which is the GoA service award. As pleased and happy as that made me, I think I’m still feeling more glee over a few of the other awards and offers that were given this weekend. Seeing my friends and people I admire be recognized is a joy.

It was a long three days on site that started at 9:45 am on Friday, and ended at around 2 on Sunday. Today, Monday, I am dragging physically and emotionally. My mind is whirling with thoughts of how we can improve next year. But I’m also very very happy.