Melee Madness - in retrospect
I headed out to Melee Madness with an overwhelming sense of impending doom. Nothing specific that I could put my finger on, just a bad feeling that wouldn't go away.
In retrospect, I suppose it wasn't nearly as bad as I was anticipating, but I wouldn't call it my favorite event either.
On the positive side:
1. Jehan and Ashley got engaged. Since I don't think I've ever seen a couple more well suited for one another, this was definitely a highlight of the weekend.
2. Got to hang out with Tony. We were able to enjoy drinking together with friends and NOT feel awkward or step over any boundaries.
3. Got to work with Liz a bit correcting some of my awkward issues with footwork and getting my off hand out where it belongs.
4. George, who is just returning to Steel Therapy, pointed out some problems with my footwork too (wow! Someone from Steel Therapy who actually noticed what my feet aren't doing correctly) and is going to try to work with me a bit on Tuesday (he even pointed out that I "bounce".....sigh.....and I thought I was improving that).
On the less than positive side:
1. I froze my etceteras off on Friday night (since I didn't bring any blankets with me - the penalties of procrastination). Ended up sleeping in the car.
2. It rained much of Saturday and I slid in the wet grass (ended up going down on my back so I wouldn't twist my knee - so I was able to fence later in the day).
3. Melees.....lots of freakin' melees!
4. Finally got some nice weather, and we were able to get some real fencing in under spotlights and someone decides it's time to start the bardic circle and, with almost no warning, the lights get turned out and we're in the dark. I mean, LITERALLY in the dark. There were people in the middle of a match! That falls into the category of stupid and dangerous!
Overall, it could have been better, but it could have been a HELL of a lot worse. And some of the good stuff was really excellent.