Faire thee well

Guess what? I met Gandalf!

This was in fact one of many highlights of my first ever experience at the Rennaisance Pleasure Faire. As a long-time student of Elvish and many other things nerdy, Many find it hard to believe I have never been to a Ren Faire. In case you needed reminding of my nerdiness, there's this.

Oh, and this.

[A whole blog on this... Read here!]

Case and point? But alack and alas, it's true. Something always seems to come up to keep me from making the long and harrowing 19-mile trek west.

The cider was flowing as we made our heavily-draped selves to the front gates of the show. Rule # 1: If you are going to do the Ren Faire, do the Ren Faire. Dressing up is not a requirement, but you'll get more into the spirit of the thing! Thankfully my friend Jennifer had me covered. She had a whole dang box full of shawls and trinkets to choose from. I had a fun time trying on different combinations before settling on a long flowing black dress with a belt contraption (really not sure what else to call it. A saddlebag? Attractive... ) Whatever it is, I got a lot of compliments!

Stepping inside, you are immediately transported. Dirt and straw floors pave the way along hundreds of makeshift shops brimming with bustiers, hats, hair chains, weapons, and the list goes on. It was a whirlwind of jewels, crafts, food, and fine spirits. Adding to the merriment was an assortment of parades, demonstrations, and performances. Our first order of business was to high tail it across the faire to watch our friend Sydni perform. Thanks to Sydni, we were able to get into the faire at a fraction of the cost (thank you!) We were eager to watch her drum with her troop, Seraphim, and were treated to a great musical serenade accompanied by belly dancing. A lot of fun. There are stages across the faire with a plethora of other performances: fire dancing, magic tricks, comedy, and dance.

Second order of business, a pony ride. Nope, not the kind with an adorable four-legged creature. In this scenario, we were head down in a goblet. The Ren Faire is known for its delectable culinary creations and craft drinks. La Oubliette, the Ren bar, did not disappoint. Although the price is a bit step ($14), I desperately wanted to take part in the La Oubliette tradition, which follows thus: First, you select a beverage. In my case, it was the Mudder's Milk, with a Boddington Ale base. Next, you approach the bar, put your hands behind your back, and prepare for step three. Drink. The bairmaid begins pouring honey mead as you try not to spill a drop of your precious drink. With everyone cheering, you can do a bit of damage before it starts to runneth over.

Full tummy, happy tummy. It was a lot of fun and, if you imbibe, quite an experience.

With our cups full, we meandered around to soak in the space. Zack took a turn on the zip line...

[Photo courtesy of Zack, mid flight]

Jessica and London got their hair braided, we all got arrested

And we threw ninja stars! I am not very good...

All in all, it was a blast. The day goes quickly and you feel like you haven't even covered a fraction of the faire. Which is probably how they get people to come again and again. That, and keeping em liquored and happy. Can't wait until next year, at which point I will get my hands on a turkey leg. Until then, God ye good den and fare thee well!