Sunday Reflections (Oct. 10)

Happy Columbus Day Weekend everyone! This weekend in my neighborhood we celebrate our Italian heritage with a food festival and music. Always lots of fun. This holiday is another reminder of how young the Americas are in comparison to Europe.
Speaking of Europe, my mom and I went to the Renaissance Faire yesterday.



We laughed and had fun because there were so many visitors who dressed liked they worked at the faire. Even the people who worked the Faire commented on it. In some cases it was hard to tell who was who, but the people who were paid to walk around in Renaissance clothing were dressed exquisitely. It took quite a bit of restraint not to stare. They even had their own Queen Elizabeth, but I felt too weird taking a picture of her, especially since it was mostly small kids who wanted their picture with Her Highness. All of the "actors" speak the Queens English, and by the end of the day, it was a bit much. My mom and I were definitely ready to fare thee well.

The Faire grounds consist of shops, eateries, and stages for shows. Except for one show, they were all excellent. One of the highlights was the Jousting tournament.
The gentleman on the left is Sir Walsingham, on the right Lord Howard (?? can't remember for sure), and the Master of Horse on that beautiful horse.



Below is the best I could do trying to capture one of the jousts.



Yes, they did actually joust. Either that or they have excellent props, because all of their shields were pretty beat up. They also did a few tricks on horseback which was very cool. My mom was a little disappointed because she thought there would be wandering minstrels and ye old music playing all the time, but that was not the case. It was still a lovely day out with mom though. We have a good time no matter where we are.

Speaking of the Queen's English, this week I'm reading Daughter of York by Anne Easter Smith for the War of the Roses Week (November 8) over at Royal Reviews. The book is okay. The plot moves a little slowly. It's either that, or I know these characters and events too well.



I am thisclose to finishing Pendragon's Banner. Speaking of which, on Friday I have an interview with Helen Hollick which will be posted. I can't wait to read her answers, although I hope it wasn't too strenuous for her.

I also started Dancing with Ana by Nicole Barker. It is a fairly short book, and I figured it would be perfect as an alternative to those wily Yorkists.



With respect to my reviews....working on that :) I have one and a half done, so I'm feeling good. Otherwise that's about it. Oh yeah, I have hose cleaning to do, but that always needs to be done. I plan on having a productive week, fingers crossed.
Hope you have a wonderful week too, and see you around blogland :)