I decided to begin a blog to allow my family and friends outside of the SCA to have a brief glimpse into what we do. As Marc and I are embarking on a new and exciting adventure in the SCA, I wanted to be able to share it. For those of you that don't know, we will be stepping up as Prince and Princess of Cynagua on July 12th. I'm horribly nervous and excited, it doesn't really seem real! There have been so many exceptional royalty in Cynagua, I can barely believe that we are going to be a part of it.
Being Lord and Lady of the Swan has been a lot of fun, it seems like the time has flown by so very quickly. Some of the most thrilling memories, of course, will forever be centered around May Coronet and June Crown. I knew in my bones that Marc was going to win when he emerged victorious from his fight early in the day with Duke Bender. Those that were around me and supporting me that day saw my nerves start from that moment. :) I'll never forget that feeling, standing there next to Constantina during finals. I was trembling like a leaf and trying very hard to appear calm. When Marc won and I went out to him, the world slowed down and then stopped. It was just he and I, kneeling there in the grass. I felt such love and admiration for him, it filled my soul and overflowed. He was so absolutely incredible that day. We were giddy and nearly unstrung, this is something we have worked towards for a year and now we are actually doing it. I think both of our hearts stopped when he put the Lady of the Swan coronet on my head.
June Crown was wonderful as well. Marc's knighting was clearly the main focus of the day for us. Sefa was wonderful in helping make sure that he had something suitably impressive to wear, his tunic came out exceptionally well and he looked incredible! That is definitely the most emotional I've ever been at an event... listening to Titus and Eilis, watching Marc's face... it was truly awe inspiring. I couldn't believe that Dukes Jade, Uther and Paul would step forth with such glowing words, I had goosebumps listening to them. Marc has touched so many lives in our short time in the SCA. He has made many friends, I believe his sincerity and honor shine through in everything that he does.
I also went to my first event alone since we won, the Golden Rivers Rapier Championship on June 28th, and had a good time. I always enjoy time spent with Her Highness Constantina, she seems a kindred spirit to me and I always laugh when I'm with her. Her Majesty Eilis always adds class to any event. My court members Katrina and Bianca were there as well, and they are a delightful pair.
As our Investiture draws near, I find myself so thankful for all of the people that have stepped forward and helped us... I never knew that such a thing was possible. Juliana has been indispensable, I don't know what I would have done without her. She has offered advice, gifted fabric, sewn, in short been everywhere and everything that I could need. She has become a true friend, and I don't have many of those. Her common sense and humor walk so closely with mine that it seems I've known her for years and years. She and Gunther were some of the first people to believe in Marc and I, and I'll never forget it. They are truly good people, with good hearts and intentions.
My head of court, Celine, is another of those great people. She slid into this role like it was made for her. I am so unused to asking for help, and she makes it oh so easy to do so. A few members of my Court and Guard especially stand out, I'm sure as time goes on I'll get to know them all. Some of my household members have been working quite hard to ensure that everything goes smoothly, Louise has taken it upon herself to do my favors all by herself, while Zaid 's help with the knighting and every other aspect has been a gift that was sorely needed. I am surrounded by wonderful people! This is sure to be an amazing adventure! I'll be sure to write more after Investiture... hopefully I don't flub my lines. ;)
(my favors, I'm very happy with them!)