7/27/21-  Follow up on Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday - Gate is good and tonight at 7:00 pm  on Zoom- WOW - gate is good.   - Exchequer from June University had still not received her Warrant so I had her forward her information and sent to the HL Jdeke.  It will be taken care of today.  

8/2/21 - What an incredible weekend - Beading wise and of course -  I finished the Biggs Jasper piece - found some very stimulating designs to keep me on target - pulled out the Morrigan Feather in stunning beadwork to finish by tonight or tomorrow morning - Did some catch up beading on my green and red caplet.   Gosh - lined in green wool with maybe a collar?  Worked on my Elizabethan creation - new photograph in a layout below

Then I came across some incredible stimulation:

And our begin dates have been posted for the Battle of the Beadsmith 2021!

Good morning Battle peoples! Welcome to August

Just wanted t go over a few things as beading for the 2021 Battle begins very soon.......

1-Beading begins August 9th! Good luck to everybody

2- I created a little bit of confusion with my dates so here it is the final decision (said in my best Im the boss voice) Beading must be finished, and photographs delivered, OCTOBER 18th. Not the 18th and a half or the 19th......

3-Remember that this year one video up to 30 seconds in length ) best highlighting your works most important elements may be included with your first four photos of round one. I am slightly concerned that the size of the videos may cause delivery problems. I suggest using a free file transfer service like WeTransfer or one of the many equivalent websites out there in Web land.

3A- Video is of your FINISHED DESIGN. 30 seconds is the extended directors cut length. PLEASE no longer than 30 seconds. No crazy soundtrack or special effects required.....

Any questions? I've gotten pretty good at making up answers.........

Battle on

Steven

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I also was contacted by Her Excellency Machteld about doing a Exchequer 101 for her husband and scheduling a Exchequer 201.  That was so nice to be remembered.

8/3/2021 - So- today was a bit eventful.  I did finish my " A Gift from the Ravens" feather and started a lovely chain with bicones and beads instead of the usual Simple Spiral or Chenille stitch rope.  It is elegant and simple and I like it very much.  I spent most of the morning determining the Battle piece and I am very comfortable with my choices.  Spend a moment on the Battle page.  

________________________________________________________

And SCA wise - My helium hand got the best of me.  No one in the Kingdom has submitted a bid for Fall Crown Tourney.  No one.  So I sent an email to the Bid Committee requesting the answer of one question.  Three years ago - Hawkwood put together a bid for Crown Tourney and it was determined it was too far away and they never gave us the courtesy of a commentary.  So - with no one bidding - is Hawkwood/Stormwall in consideration?  And will the bid be accepted?  

I sent a message this morning to:  His Excellency Tiberius - Her Excellency Rhiannon- Marybeth Marooney and Joe Holt informing them that if the Bid Committee states we can be considered then I will submit a bid.  I will not have a Kingdom or a King and Queen plead to have a bid submitted.    As this is a Kingdom bid - no funding is required from the Barony or the Canton.   And again - I will not have a Kingdom plead for a bid.  

8/6/21:  Made quite a bit of progress on the necklace shown above.  I cut those pieces out and came up with a more efficient bicone encrustment to make the entire rope lay flat.   I will draw a detail and upload it.  Update:  Yep - finished it and see the second photo. 

Also started the layout for " Athena " and I am ready to start.  I may do some gold work bee's for the final placements.  

Update on SCA- Crown Tournament - I was also contacted by David Ritterscamp and he is also submitted a bit because he wont have a Kingdom plead.  If he is successful - will I run his Gate?  Of course I will.  

I have honestly became everyone's Gate Minister.  WOW!  We just hit 90 for SSBB on September 4th so hopefully we will receive additional reservations this weekend.  And of course 

8/10/21:  Wow - what a busy few days - SCA wise and Battle of the Beadsmith wise and then of course the " Secret" projects.  

8/17/21 & 8/18/21 - Michael came in from Florida and I did spend a lot of time with him and went over to the little house and did some work.  I really, really miss not having my studio but I know this will work.   I want to sew on the sewing machines and use a cutting board and just sew and sew along with bead and bead.  

SSBB for September 4 is almost at 150 reservations and I worked with Colin as he had forgotten to obtain an Event Certificate of Insurance.   As always, SCA.org was great to work with even though they were moving their headquarters.  

I was contacted by the Kingdom Bid Committee and received the following:

Mon, Aug 16, 8:18 PM (2 days ago)

to me, kingdomevents, Kathy, Gisela

Lady Adair

Good evening. We wanted to let you know, we have tentatively selected another site to host the Fall Crown Tournament. As the other group still needs to provide us with an official bid form and a budget, if you have made any arrangements, please don't cancel them just yet. We have given them a week to provide us with those items. 

All that being said, we really liked the site and the information you provided was very helpful and met several of our requirements. If you would like us to consider this site with the same information for one of the other Kingdom events, such as the next Spring Coronation or Crown, please let us know.  It is also not too early to put in a bid for next Fall, if you prefer to do events later in the year. If you would like us to consider it for another event, please identify which event and we would also need a rough budget of the costs to host the event. 

Thank you again for taking the time to provide the information and thank you for your service to the Kingdom of Atlantia!

YIS

Baroness Sarra de Vicenza

Kingdom Events Coordinator

kingdomevents@atlantia.sca.org

What would I like to do?  Either is acceptable - Coronation or Crown.  I'll ask everyone tonight during the Stormwall meeting and see what they would enjoy more.

____________________________________________________________________

I feel like I am forgetting something:  hummm!

8/27/21

Today I adulted.  It took every ounce of strength not to raise my hand and become a Society Exchequer for the new organization- SMA - Society of the Middle Ages.  I have too much Super Power work to focus on and I said NO.  Almost broke my arm - but its a no go.  I have a battle piece, a secret project and about 20 individual pieces on the board.  " It is a " Negative- Ghostrider".  The pattern is full.  

From now on - my Beading - Bead Embroidery and Pearl Embroidery shall be referred to as " My Super Power" work.  Nothing less.  Garment sewing will be - " My Fun Work". 

We are one week out for the SSBB ( Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday) and at 250.  Praying that the tokens come in on time.  Maybe- Maybe not.  I am going to develop a checklist for Autocrat's and a process of scheduling an event correctly.  I am glad that I spent time and took the Reservationist - Gate and reports for this event so I could observe and manage the information coming in from SCAr's.  It has enlightening.    I have had fun bringing the Ottoman Garb out and looking to see how I can modify it.  ( Add more stuff's ).  I am curious with some of the people coming in.  There must be two elevations.  Possibly a Laurel and Possibly a Pelican.  I don't know but it looks like fun.  

I noticed I am extremely drawn to the Costumers Guild and sewing .  I would like to now spend time doing only those things.  I have spent seven years in total service and now the creative side is taken over.   I have a Bernina - I have a Singer and I am going to learn how to create incredible garb.   

I've have had my Battle piece evolve.  I ordered 30 yards of 1mm Non-Tarnishing Gold cording and Ann-Juliette Genevieve recommend two valuable Embroidery sources for product.   I was originally going to do the hand-bag and the product just evolve into Athena of Epeseus.   p.s.- we are also back to the handbag.  

9/6/2021 - So speaking of busy.  Yes!  Unfortunately you have to take the good with the bad.  War of the Wings was cancelled due to the new spikes in Covid for our area.  I know that the Excel program that I designed to track vehicle tags and trailers will be something that will work perfectly next year.  I am really sad for all of our Staff.  We put a lot of work into planning and execution, but there will always be next year.  As long as they keep WOW#15 - we should be good.

We already have our A&S day prepped for September 12, 2021 at the United Community Bank Meeting room.  We shall continue to sew.

We had Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday 2021 - held at Elchenburg Castle on 9/4/21.  I was delighted to run Reservations and Gate so I could evaluate the annomalies with SCAr's.   What a wonderful event and it was so nice to see those that I missed over the past year and just to hug my Peer.  We were non-stop at the gate from 7:30 am to 1:30 and then I had a little time to see Michel and pick up my Turn Shoe Boot pattern and some lovely teas.  Then I was able to retain for Her Majesty Jane before court.  Such a delight and I would retain for her any time she ask's.  She loves beading.  A kindred spirit.  I was sad that Her Grace Seonaid was not feeling well and was unable to attend along with Raven the Helpful.  So, lots of healing energy heading her way.  

Post from Facebook:

   Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday 2021:

What a lovely “ I miss my tribe” event. The weather was lovely and the Gate thanks to my assistants Lucrezia Sarta di Napoli and Fay Conant was non-stop but entertaining. Thank you Ladies for all that you did.

To my Peer, Mistress Annora Hall Kathy M Alma- thank you for caring for us during this event as we manned the gates with food- glorious food. You and Lord Robert of Shockley Adrian Alma are the most wonderful Peer and M’Lord a person could ask for.

I was truly honored to work with Lord Gawain Colin Bulla during this event and the staff was wonderfully selected. Here is on to future events.  During our evening court Lord Gawain presented me with a lovely cup. I recognized its maker Lord Ian Munro. Thank you to both M’Lord Gawain for including me on his Staff and to Lord Ian Munro. It shall be treasured and it is perfect.

And yes- I did dress Ottoman which surprised many and yes I did wear a veil ( I know- I complained much). Photos are attached.

And speaking of photos: our site Tokens became a series of entertainment by my Peer and Her Excellency of Sacred Stone.

Laughter ensued with Gate entertainment.

9/14/21 - Ahhh!  Just a quick catch up of all of those things rolling around right now.  I have been so busy with the battle piece I have not been able to breathe!  So I need to breathe.

Fortunate that the Barony of Dunn Carraig was able to secure another site so I do not need to worry about this Crown Tournament and I can just look at going to  Yule Toy Tourney in December and now I can focus on Coronation.  Keep your fingers crossed.  I would enjoy this type of event. 

Good morning!

Yes, they were able to find a site. Thank you for following up. 

Please continue to work on a Coronation bid as we have not received any other interest in hosting it, and we would like to get it awarded sooner rather than later.

I look forward to hearing from you. 

YIS

Baroness Sarra de Vicenza

Kingdom Events Coordinator

kingdomevents@atlantia.sca.org

We just had a very productive Goof's meeting tonight.  Lot's going on and a couple of staff changes going on.  And I will just focus on my Battle Piece.   

10/5/21-  I have not forgotten everyone and yes, the SCA is still going ( LOL!) but - I am beading non-stop to meet the 18th deadline to include photographs and uploads.  I think I overdid the design for this piece.    I still need to put together a bid for Coronation in April but now that I have completed the Post Event Report for SSBB (do not ask).......I have to focus on " Artemis Rising".  Nothing else at this time, just Artemis.   Then after the Battle piece is complete I need to focus on "moving".  And I really want to sew garb for myself.  Lots of garb.  

Ashia did message me for Twelfth Night asking if I would take gate, etc. and I did agree.  When haven't I done Twelfth Night?  But I would like to enjoy this event as well.  But so much more to visit with when the Battle of complete.    

It has been formally announced on the Exchequer Board that I am the Kingdom Emergency Deputy.  Hmmm!

10/21/21 - I was not able to do a day at Chicken Wings - but it was well received and everyone had a great time for the week.       In a follow up to 2022 Twelfth Night - Ashia was not succesful but Charles Fleming-C Brian Towey ( who was going to cook for us during the postponed Baronial Birthday and apprentice to Anya ( House Corvus) who was the Autocrat for my first 12th Night.      He was so incredibly happy that I would take Reservations - SCArs Audit and Gate that he stated - I don't really have a way to say YES!  strongly enough by text.  If you were nearby, I might wag my tail and lick your chin.  (LOL!)     I am now formally the Reservations - and Gate Minister for 12th Night 2022.

I was kind of looking forward to seeing Ashia Autocrat - but this will be so very well more organized and a great event.  It will be in Winston-Salem at the Masonic building.  Very nice location and I hope I can stay at my Peer's home so no hotel room expense.

10/26/21- Update - my Peer is the A&S Minister for the event.   Yippee!

10/26/21 - Battle #36 Posted.  I was really fretting but it finally posted and everything was well received.

Please visit the Battle of the Beadsmith page for all of the comments and photographs and back stories on this piece.

Tomorrow - The Sylva Herald will be doing an article on the piece with photographs, etc.  " WOW".  I might get to start teaching again.  

11/2/21- The photographer for the Sylva Herald was just here doing the photos.  He was so overwhelmed with the piece that he forgot to take a photo of me with " Artemis Rising".    Brittany is going to do a photo since I have not had one done with my piece.      I have had so many ideas start - it is incredible and my person journal has observations to Bead Embroidery.  I am really looking forward to seeing the article.  

10/29/21 - Submitted a Kingdom Bid for 2022 Spring Coronation to be held in Bryson City.  The Kingdom Bid Committee has all documents and photographs for the Bid.  The little Canton of Stormwall may have the chance to shine again.  

11/7/21 - I revised and closed the backing on the Coronet of the Plague for Her Excellency Gracia Slay now that her head measurements were confirmed.  It is done - It is complete.  Now to transport to Asheville so she can wear it to Nottinghill Coill Yule Toy Tourney and Twelfth Night.

I started on the commissioned piece - Choker after the concept of Artemis Rising for the Newspaper Reporters daughter in Pennsylvania.   And I have a BE Pearl Medallion to complete for Baroness Machteld as she was just inducted into the Order of the Pearl.

From her Facebook Post today - Catherine Yvonne King  I am not sure what I ever have done to deserve your friendship but I want to keep doing it!) 

How so very generous of her.  She is a treasure beyond treasures.  

And then, it is on to several other projects.............. "Always in the making".

The article was published and it was so very well done.  I am very grateful.  It was also the first time that I was ever photographed with my Bead Embroidery.    I was really amazed with how well everything came together and I wore the earrings while the photo's were done, and later in the week - I finished a wonderful pendant with the left overs from " Artemis Rising".  

http://www.thesylvaherald.com/top_stories/article_15a0af88-3cce-11ec-8ca8-b75ff5782991.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share

11/19/21 - The lift and times of the SCA- Updates

The Kingdom Event Bid Committee loved, and I do mean loved the new site we submitted with backup.  They were amazed at the layout and open spaces.  But alas, the incoming Royal Heir's had already made arrangements for another location with Her Grace Luned.   It took Her Excellency Sara three days to gather the courage to call me - I had her laughing in two minutes.  I had already expected this to happen, so not to worry.

*********************************************************

I had received a Message from Adelhait on 11/9/21 stating she could not wait to see me at Yule Toy and was wondering if I could put a bug in the Rapier group her to bring together an event in the mountains for the summer of 2022 by hosting a Rapier Notable Tournament only for the rapier community.    Her goal is to work with Autocrat's to help them build thematic events - not cookie cutter events.  Then as you know, I do not do cookie cutter events and the Gathering of the Clans was an example of that.  Which is why she is excited we can set an example.    That was nice to hear and of course - the event is now Spiked and I am working on the website now.  The staff is coming together and the skeleton of staff will be ready by next week after the Rapier practice at Greylonds.    So you will now see references to " Tournoi de la Rapier Blade " Noblesse Obligue"

*****************************************

Hawkwood had overlooked that their Exchequer had gone dark - so I spent many a night trying to locate Wilhelm and Jason Brooks and Aesa was instrumental in helping me find Barry's sister.  He has had a very rough time recovering from Covid - So I completed his 3rd Quarter (Minimal) and will proxy for him until he fully recovers .  Kingdom sent in an authorization as the Emergency for the Kingdom to proxy for Wilhelm.  ( I know, I really do not have a lot of time. )

and now on to the world of the bead and bead embroidery:

On Sunday I get to take a Zoom class with a Russian Bead Embroiderer that I have admired for over seven years -  Alla Maslennnokova.  I have so loved her work and have attempted to emulate her processes.  I will be taking Snowflake through Burke Gems and Beads in Virginia and it led to another great friendship via telephone with Olya Yampolsky the owner, from Russia.   She positively love my Battle piece and yesterday gave me the greatest of compliments about developing pieces to teach with her store.  That was incredible to hear and really helped my faith in my beadwork.  

My kit came in and I have had a great time looking at the Moonstone Center.

I cannot wait to have the little cottage complete and the Studio up - actually I think the entire cottage will be a studio.  Baby steps.

I also realized I really need to spend some time on my Facebook - Adair page.  It really needs updating and attention.  Lot's of attention especially since it is the only lead to this website and, on better news.

With the help of Mistress Gisela Vom Kreuzbach - my household is coming together.  Based on Household Guidelines from the College of Heralds - my Bead, Bead Embroidery and Pearl Embroidery household will be named if approved :

Casa dei Compagni del tallone - House of the Companions of the Bead.  The reason for the selection of Italian was from the Murano Italy Bead Wars in the 1300-1400.  

And for using the " hidden " italian motto - Beaders pazzo pipistrello merda " bat shit crazy beads" this will be used after the approval.  Hence - why the Bat in pearls and gemstones is the design.  

12/5/21 - So much to catch up on but the Canton has the Town of Sylva Holiday parade.  Catch up later.

12/5/21 - The Canton of Stormwall really showed a festive presence at the Holiday Christmas Parade.  I was really happy that Rodney Woods - and a few others from Hawkwood came over to join us.  There was just a tad of sprinkling but other wise it was really cold like last time.  Justin from my office joined us and has decided to become a member.  

I really need to spend time making garb.  :) 

12/12/21 - So I did a thing.  I hosted a Beading and Needlework Solar at the Barony of Nottinghill Coill - Yule Toy Tourney.  We had quite a few people stopping by and my Peer and Her Excellency Eleanor of Grey was just awesome.  Eleanor made some incredible cookies and Annora brought Coffee pots and water.  It was lovely and we did get some great time to bead and catch up.   Her Royal Highness Adelhait stopped by and asked if I could help her with a White Scarf project.  She actually sat with me for over 15 minutes and we got the opportunity to really talk.  It was lovely.

At morning Court I was called forward and I recieved a Fountain for all of my hard work at SSBB with Colin and the others.   I was totally caught off guard as I was spending time waiting for Jdeke to be called forward to begin her Elevation to the order of the Pelican.  I was extremely grateful for the Fountain.  Now on to Court Baronage and then Laurel.  :)   My scroll is beautiful - Illumination by Eleanor of Grey and Calligraphy by:  ( let me look that up ).  It was a great event.  Jdeke's elevation ceremony was beautiful and Miesterin Gisella played it so very cool.  House Corvus outdid themselve for sure.  

11/21/21- So after looking at the photographs above - I am now obsessed with my garb.  All of my garb.  I ordered the Black from Majestic Velvets and I am making a necklace to die for and will change the ribbon on the garb to " Ouchies".  But I am doing one of those once-overs.  My hem above is ripped ....work to be one there and I need a new facelift for my persona.

As I am struggling with my place in the Kingdom - I know I am to focus on the Arts right now ( not Service ).  It was wonderful to have Her Highness Adelhait sit with me at Yule Toy Tourney - and of course to come up with a plan for her needs for the white scarf but today - I received this from her Grace Seonid.  

Good morning, I have a HUGE favor to ask of you.  

Would you be willing to do something beaded for the Gulf Wars gift basket ?  It can be anything you would like.  Your beaded work is so lovely and unusual.  That is the kind of thing that makes Royals go squee.  Seriously, those are the kind of things that the Royals really treasure.  

Pretty please

ME

LOL!  Of course I will.  What is my time frame before you leave.  And are their any preferences?

Barbra

We got Ansteorra in the gift drawing.  You could go to their website.  They have a great list of things they like that you could draw on.

GW is March 12.  So maybe around the beginning of March.  

Thank you so much.

ME

Very good!  I’ll have my submission ready and will get them to you in plenty of time.

Oh to Bead!

1/4/2022- My progress on Princess Adelhait's White Scarf Medallion is coming along quite well.  I am looking forward to that being completed and mailing it off to her.  I still have a Pelican Medallion to design and I submitted two classes for University in February and to Bead a Little Seahorse - Spike is full - over full actually.  I'll be working on the teaching syllabus to show Swabian aspects and Queen Elizabeth's snake on her sleeve to show the historical accuracy.  And my Coif Class is full as well.  

I received a lovely email from a former student who took last years Beaded Coif class from East Kingdom - Melissande of Berwick - aka Melissa Dawson - I am adding a entry into the students section of the SCA.  It turned out lovely and I cannot wait to see her wear it.  

We are all feeling like we are in limbo.  Another surge of Covid.  Looks like 12th Night will be cancelled and it's just one big mess.  My new black gown will have to wait to be used.

Now that I have completed the forensic review of Hawkwood - I am going to step away.  My sadness has overtaken that someone could jeopardize their membership in the SCA

1/7/22- And Twelfth Night is cancelled and will move to virtual.  So the new gown will have to wait and I am setting aside the Snowflakes because I group was just informed we will be doing next years Twelfth Night as we had an incredible staff.  Their Majesties posted a video and I SQUEEED!  I am mentioned.  

1/7/21- Continued:  

Saunooke saw my postings about reimbursements for Twelfth Night and he just messaged me.  I have his new telephone number.  We are planning on meeting a Pennsic in August.  I really need to start making Roman Garb, like Stat!  I also need to send a raven to Machteld and get her mailing address so I can send her pearl to her.  Maybe that will help cheer her up.

1.17.21 - Almost complete with the White Scarf request for Princess Adelhait and I will mail off this week.  Working on the Spike class and I will be also sending out the supply list for the coif and a simple pattern for the coif.  University is the first week of February and I would like to try out a new overhead camera for teaching.  Shopping now.  I am a bit sad that Twelfth Night did not occur but was virtual.  There were so many people I wanted to see and to spend the night at Annora and Adrians house would have been a blast.   They were not able to do the Cook-Out on Sunday due to the Storm, but just the thought of it .......  what can I say.

Sandy (Lucrezia) received her Award of the Fountain using my specific verbiage for her recommend at the Vitual Court for 12th Night.   That was exciting.  Kenda ( SCA'rs Deputy ) was inducted into the order of the Pelican.  Another Exchequer elevated after Jdeke.  Very good news that Exchequers are being recognized.  Finally!

2/1/22 - I just received an email for the University of Atlantia - 

Drea Leed

Tue, Feb 1, 11:20 PM (13 hours ago)

to Adairaingheanmakyswell@gmail.com

Dear Adair,

University web minister here. I've been evaluating class popularity in advance of the upcoming session, as I do, and noticed that yours is one of the most popular/wish listed classes we have: there's a limit of 10 people but fifteen additional people are on the waitlist.

Since it's virtual, is this a class that you could bump up the maximum number of participants for? If not that's fine; I just wanted to check.

Thanks,

Mistress Drea di' Pellegrini

Response:  I opened up for all waitlist participants.  There will be a lot of students this Saturday.

2/8/2022 - just a minor catch up after a successful University and I received some great feed back I received from my students.  Both classes were well received and quite a few participants were actually beading along.  Working with the (2) Camera system was really dicey on Zoom.  Not enough clarity for the fine needlework so I am going to put together a close up video and also develop and manual showing the steps of bead embroidery that can be referenced during class.  I'll show the video and then we begin.  I also enjoyed taking Philomena's " Squashed Bug " Illumination class.  A lot of laughter and a lot of humor

More to write but I will do so tonight when I get home.   

 3/9/2022 - Laughter!  A whole month I've been trying to catch the blog up but maybe this is the perfect time with so much that has occurred over the past month.

1.  Kingdom Arts and Sciences happened this past Saturday (3/5/22).  A real live person event with some wonderful displays and my Peer and her husband Lord Robert of Shockley were there, Jdeke was there and Sandy entered into the Royal Baker competition and won.  Her first Kingdom competition..., well done.  She got the apron and a cute basket of goodies.    My display was really well visited and everyone wanted to review the research - look at the books of references.  My little Spike from my University Class was complete with just the decorating of the pouch and re-doing the tassels.... so many comments on him.  The Master Geoffrey  (Robert Himmelsbach) presented me with a gift for my display.  A beautiful pair of embroidery scissors in a holder with a chain.    His comment was,  that my display was amazing and also scary with the amount of work presented.  

After thinking this through- I have two items to complete and then maybe I'll tone down my static display.  Just a thought.

2.  A Non Cookie Cutter event, " Tournoi de la Rapiere Blade - Noblesse Obligue" to  be held in  Bryson City , NC has been cancelled due to    Financial concerns for the Barony of Hawkwood.   

3.   I will be holding another Beading Solar at Coronation.   Promised at KASF........

4.   I will be finally moving next weekend the 19th of March ..... the studio can finally get put back together.  FINALLY!   And the  sewing room.  YES!

5.   I was so happy:  I complete (8) pieces of Jewelry for Her Majesty Jane's gift basket for Gulf Wars and I completed (8) pieces of Jewelery for Her Highness- Adelhait's gift basket for Gulf Wars.    Those netted earrings came out stunning in gold and black.  I am going to have to do some in Atlantian colors.  

4/2/22 - I did reach out to Adeliza of Bristol to offer the help of Stormwall and will confer with Arias this week.

4/18/22 - Yes there is such a very large amount of things going on with Events being planned .  Myself being placed as Principal for the Order of the Pearl - entering QB transactions for the Kingdom Exchequer.  Yeah!  I am so not bored. 

2022 Greening Up the Mountains - a wonderful Demo in a new location, Mark B Watson Park, Sylva.  (Yes, there is a story behind this).   As we were requesting our usual spot next to ARF at Greening Up as we have participated for seven years - it was learned that they had not processed our application as a Not for Profit - and there was no space available.  Yes, they had the money too.  So I immediately started a path to performing a miracle.  I reached out to the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and asked about this location at Mark B Watson Park.  The only conflict they had was the 5K run but that would be early in the morning finishing at the latest by 10:00 am.  It was a go.  So I will be following up with the Town as we had learned that there were other Not For Profits that had to fight for their usual space.  Yes indeed.

        Greening Up the Mountains 2022 - Sylva, NC

 A proper thank you to :  Rodney Woods (Sir Roland Wodeman) - Ryan Sweeney - Ashely Lundsford (Astrid the Owl) - Master Greylond - Our Seneschal Lord Arias - Lord Ewin( Cody Singleton),  Heather Rumpf , Fionn MacKonnel (Richard Gay), Lady Franceska of Stormwall (Kim Schuman Holt) and moi. 

4/15/2022- as the Tournoi had been cancelled - Stormwall had decided to do a Newcomers Day and Gathering at the site that was to have been used for the Tournoi

5/21/2022 - I taught for Hawkwood Baronial Birthday XVI - Virtual at 10:00 am on 5/21/22 and the I would TA for Sandy at 12:00.  It turned out to be a splendid class:

Today I taught a class in Historical Bead and Pearling through the ages for the SCA Inc. Hawkwood Baronial Birthday XVI.  OMG - I had some wonderful students but I also had a special guest, THL Elspeth Grizel of Dunfort (Jen Segrest) of Midrealm and the owner of Medievalbeads.com.  I had so much fun speaking with her and told her immediatley she is my hero.  We had a great dialog and I look forward to speaking with her and meeting her in person. 

It is a great day!

Can you believe it?  And we are now friends on Facebook and can dialog on Messenger.  

And..... Lynnea's Grandson Jahsyr Jaan was born on 5/22/22 at 12:22 pm.  Wow!  

5/22/22 - We had our first site visit today at 10:00.  It turned out to be easier to get to then I realized and OMGosh - what a lovely site.   It would handle a Coronation without any problems.  Such an incredible view.  I will admit I haven't really been feeling this event.  I am a tad worried about attendance, but the flyers have been going out to Western - and it is posted on the Swain County Website, etc.  - I need to up the marketing for sure.  

And, I am making progress on the Studio.  I have so much organizing to do - and boxes everywhere, but she is coming together.

Right Angle Weave ( in current terms) - 

About 10 years ago when I started beading - I developed a knack for Right Angle Weave both flat and tubular.  I started teaching the technique in our area of Port St. Lucie, FL and became known as the RAW Queen.  So after conversing this past weekend with Jen Segrest and some revisions she made to MedievalBeads.com she drew my attention to two RAW Bags from the 1630-1639 period in the RAW Beading technique.  This was a " Things that make you go Hmmm!" moment.  This is doable.  I have my RAW pages that I can draft the pattern with no issues, but what I find amazing with this is - I have been told consistently that Beadweaving is not historical - medieval or Period.  So far I have found, Netting ( the Egyptians were famous for netting) - RAW and Peyote(our term for step up beading).   We do not give our ancestors sufficient credit for their ingenuity.  They only lacked the wonderous colors we have today.  

What would be your dream elevation?  

Recently, her Majesty Adelhait asked an interesting question on Facebook and for the first time I really sat there and thought about it.  

What a lovely question which led to quite a bit of thought. My persona is Scots-English. To begin I would love to sit a formal vigil where each Laurel that visits and offers kind words would receive a beaded item (imagine that) and for those Peers and Royals that visit would be a lovely token for taking time to speak with me. I would love a formal English Tea with a sideboard of lovely delectable treats. All would be welcome. For the procession. I am a Scot! A bagpipe would be a glorious round and to see both of my sons from Trimaris would be the culmination of many years spent with the Society. I think I will start a Hope to box. Thank you for allowing us to think about this.

So - I guess I need to get my ass busy.  That is a lot of Beaded Tokens and the biggest issue would be the Elevation Gown.  A formal late Tudor, but Scott's Ladies wore mostly Black in their garb.  I need to start looking at what I think would be the perfect Tudor elevation gown.  Maybe I can figure out how to wear a Black White and Red.

6/22/22 - Okay - trying to Bead, finishing the running of an event in Bryson City - attending the Barony of Sacred Stone - " Below the Salt" and trying to spend time with just my Peer.  But Oh My Goodness - it has not only been a whirlwind three weeks it has been an amazing three weeks.   BUT -  " I am behind in beading"  Arrrgh!  Thank goodness it is my birthday this weekend.  I am not coming out.  So.  Let's take it in sequence: 

OUT OF THE STORM - The Canton of Stormwall Newcomers Picnic and Gathering

From the Autocrat  

Good Day to the Populace of Atlantia, the Barony of Hawkwood and the Canton of Stormwall. As with all Autocrat’s for either a Demo or Event, it takes a village not one single person to support an Event or Demo. After enduring two years of the Plague, most members and guests alike were looking forward to an outdoor gathering and to do what most SCAdian’s love to do. The talent that brought our “Out of the Storm” Gathering came from near and far to help bring this gathering to introduce Newcomers to the Dream of the SCA. Our Arts and Science Display was well received by the Newcomers and Patrons alike. We graciously thank those that joined us from other Baronies and added to the festivities and glory.  With the cost of gas at this time, we are grateful.

Final Attendance Numbers: Gated 93 – Newcomers 50 – Two new armored fighters authorized.

As the Autocrat, I had the best staff one could ask for.

As many other thanks you’s are listed below I wish to thank my Deputy Autocrat – Lord Fionn MacKonnel as I was at Gate most of the day and he managed flawlessly and Lady Heather Hrafnsdottir for manning the A&S area and presenting the art of Illumination to most of our Newcomers, Lady Ari  (Andrea Brooks) for standing as Herald and assisting in the A&S area. Lady Theresa of Caid for teaching her lovely Netted Bracelet which was well received (hint: including Her Excellency of Nottinghill Coill). Lady Editha filia Rolandi (Lynnea E Ekstrom) for confirming my counts and M’Lady Sorsha of Hawkwood for manning the gate for 15 minutes as I dropped of my A&S. To Goodwife Michel Almond de Champagne for designing the coolest site tokens evah! To House Mashburn – your assistance was admired throughout the Gathering. To His Excellency Ronan Mac An’ Stalcair, it was lovely to see you again. You still present very well and I know the Chatelains enjoyed your presence. And to one gentle that could not attend but was with us Friday for setting up the Lyst, Lord Maximilian Brudder, you were missed.

To my Peer Mistress Annora Hall and her consort Lord Robert Shockley of Avonsford, your support, the cheese (Oh My Gosh the Cheese) and your willingness to stand in the sun to show the Newcomers the aspect of cooking over an open fire, I cannot thank you enough.

So now on to the Staff:

Marshall in Charge:

This event would not have occurred without the assistance of Lord Arias Velaro de Santalana del Mar (Joe Holt). He was the direct connection with Swain County for using the site location and his thank you’s include:

Carrie Powell, Swain County High School Athletic Director – she provided all of the coolers and the ice for our even. We had 5 Ice chests and 4-10 gallon Drink Coolers filled with ice. No one needed to buy ice for this event because of her.

Swain County High School- for providing 20 Tables and 100 folding chairs- Free of Charge

Swain County – for providing free use of the amazing venue plus for supply support such as hauling off the trash and bringing in the portable stage for medieval dance.

Mr. Kevin King – Swain County Manager – for giving us the OK to use the facility

Cindi Woodard – Swain County Clerk to the Board – for coordinating

Bobby Jenkins – Swain County – for assisting with the Prep and tear down of the stage

Cabbott Cochran – for supplying our bathrooms

Mistress Adeliza of Bristol – Anna Marie Smith – for being our MOL

Master Alwin – Matt Powers for being our Armored Combat Marshall

Lord Robert Shockley of Avonsforth – Adrian Alma for being our Archery Marshall

Lord Robert Leftehand of Weymouth– Robert Putnam, who is actually left handed- (who knew?)- for being our thrown weapons Marshall

Master Greylond Crow – for assisting with creating and running the rapier challenge couse.

Lord Ewin Morison – Cody Singleton for being our Site Stewart and for helping on the lyst as MIT

Justin Carter (soon to be named) – for being a tireless and selfless worker. He was invaluable in setting up and taking down. Especially when setting up the stage and hauling tables and chairs.

Chatelain:

Lady Franceska of Stormwall (Kim Schuman Holt) – as Chatelain for Stormwall and manager of the Gold Key,   Outstanding. She was also everywhere in assisting with the kitchen, serving, tear down. She is the bestest.

Her Excellency Veronica Passamonte (Jennifer Givens) – Newcomers Tours and How to build your Persona. My deepest appreciation. I heard great things and you and Franceska were instrumental in two newcomers become active SCA members.

His Excellency Ronan, for assisting in Newcomer 101 and looking dashing.

Feastcrat:

Hlady Lucezia Sarta di Napoli – Sandy Ann Wheeler.

So how awesome was feast? It was flipping awesome. The dayboard for His Excellency Tiberius was compiled by Adair of Makyswell, M’Lady Sorsha and Carol Ann.

Our Feastcrat wishes to thank the following for making Feast a success. Kalara Racoci, Chantelle, Denis Hyland, Ryan Sweeny, Her Excellency Gracia Slay, Lord Arias and Lady Franceska.

To Kalara Racoci who spent her event in the kitchen, to Ryan Sweeney, I could ask for a better prep chef and server each, and every feast we cook. To Chantelle, you were a great help, thank you for visiting with us. To Denis for chopping onions because we just could not do anymore, To Arias and Franceska and her Excellency Gracia Slay who served feast to the awaiting populace. To Annora Hall- the cheese you made and shared with us is amazing and let us not forget Arias and Ryan who washed so many dishes and pots for a quick clean up.

And to His Excellency Tiberius Aufidius Crispus, we offer our wholehearted thanks for making the event and court exciting for the Newcomer’s to watch and observe. Thank you, your Excellency.

If I have overlooked anyone it was not intentional.

In your service,

H Lady Adair of Makyswell

Totally forgot to post the Baronial Gathering on May 15th at the Whistlehop Brewering in Fairview, NC.  The entire event was hosted by Gina Donatelli Miceli along with the weaving of the Maypole.  Cody, Sandy, Dennis and myself came in from Stormwall and it was really a lot of fun seeing everyone.

I mean - common look at that sleeve.

7/20/22 - I have been finishing the Beaded Cell Phone Pouch for the Pennsic Gift Basket for Anestorrea - finishing Esme's beautiful pearled veil.  Helping pull together A&S gatherings.  Working diligently on Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday - Yikes!  Everyone is leaving soon for Pennsic so it is chaos all around.  (Anestorrea)

I still have to do - My Household name and Heraldry application and research.  

I still have to do - the 13th Century Holy Host

And I keep coming up with all of these designs......aargh!

I have so much garb I need to do for myself.  For me..................................................................................

7/17/22 - Canton of Stormwall - A&S Day - Illumination and thank you cards - UCB Bank

Franceska of Stormwall and Adair of Makyswell in attendance.

I am a glutton for punishment.  Picture 2 is the exemplar - I have traced and started the Illumination in Picture 3 ( looking to do the Squashed Bug technique taught by Philomena).  I had lots of small Perg pieces - so the thank you's can be sent out for Out of the Storm.

Exemplar:  

For our Baronial Meeting this Sunday at Their Excellencies Adeliza and Thor - 

Good Day Your Excellencies,

I am saddened that I will be unable to attend the Business Meeting at their Excellencies wonderful Homestead due to “Battle of the Beadsmith“, begins and I must complete a week earlier that the rest due to “ War of the Wings”.  I will give my proxy to another Stormwall or Hawkwood member should there be a vote required. 

I do have input in reference to the Hawkwood Site at WOW and I have no issues with others knowing what I think.  This location has been the Baronies stable location with our greatest thanks to our Land Stewart, Her Excellency Veronica Passamonte.  Many are not members of exclusive Household’s and this is a place of gathering for many members of the Barony to enjoy the camaraderie of other Baronial members and guests.  I am caught off-guard with the commentary of Her Excellency Veronica Passamonte continuing as Camp Stewart?  Land assignments have already begun and names are already referenced with Baronies, Households and visitors of their active Land Stewarts and if I remember correctly, it was already a part of commentary that our Camp Stewart would maintain as per previous years as she has our greatest support. 

 Layout and appearance – I will support the Stewart and the Barony on the lay out as I am there during the day and night and then sleep off site.  I have already started acquiring ghost spots.  Being the Gate Minister for the event, I will be occupied but you always know where to find me.  Households and Baronies have already started working on their entrance packages and our sheet walls have expanded considerably.  I have supported the building of an entrance befitting the Barony for entering the area.

As we will not be holding the Hawkwood Thursday Evening Party – it has opened many opportunities for the other Baronies to plan gatherings which we (Hawkwood) may participate in.  Being on the WOW staff, it has been enlightening how many other Guilds, Households and Baronies are planning events for Thursday evenings now that Hawkwood will not have their annual party, for many at WOW to enjoy.

I fully support the establishment of a Food Plan.  Seth and Jason always have a great food plan or whomever else is selected. I’ll be on the run but it will be comforting knowing that meals are available and we have a Guber at gate for pickup. 

 As always,  I spoke my mind with my heart.

Response:  Christopher Buchonnet - 

I'm going to save your post for my notes at the meeting, but I am going to pull it off the page. So it doesn't get lost in the aether

Enter

Christopher

I'm trying to keep meeting commentary all in one place so I don't miss someone's thoughts at the meeting

Enter

Christopher

That why I asked to send it directly to us. Sorry for any confusion

8/3/2022-

Goodness there has been so much SCA going on.  I am realizing I cannot be "all the things"  for much longer.   Every time I turn around, there is a new rabbit hole.   I have fallen into the new Rabbit Hole of "Gold Work Embroidery".  

9/13/22 - As always, there is so much that has happened over the past month and a half.  Sacred Stone Baronial Birthday was a great event, even though it was hot as hell.  The cabins made up for it being Air Conditioned and my Peer worked with so many to develop an incredible around the world feast.  The removes were amazing.  - As Gate Minister though- I learned not to rely on those who say they will help.   I ended up having to man the gate most of the time by myself.  Even with that stress, Asta stopped and helped and Sandy helped when she could while she was Sous Chefing.   And I think I experienced " Heat Exhaustion" and slept for 2.5 hours after I closed the gate.  But there was a glimmer of progress - Baron Edward Godale was awarded the " Companion of the Sea Dragon" and I volunteered to do his scroll.   He was so happy to hear that I would.    Oh, and comically - Otto told me that I had the largest Golden Dolphin medallion that I received from Jdeke, he had ever seen.   Laughingly, I told him it was a gift and I was looking for a smaller one.  

I had Magus make a Black Walnut bench that we were going to donate to the Kingdom for a kneeling bench as so many of us are getting up in years and we are having difficulty kneeling right now.   I don't know if I want to donate it to the Kingdom.  I really, really like it and it would make a great table for a pavilion.  I really need to think about this.  I already donate so much to the Canton, Barony and Kingdom.   

War of the Wings - Gate Minister.  This is going to be rough.  I am currently stringing 2,000 War of the Wings medallions.  Of course - no one is available to assist.  I really should know better.   Originally, the reservationist for WOW was going to be there at Honey Badger Tavern and help with the Hot Spot and Laptop during the week.  She just started Chemo so she will only be there on the weekend.  So, I will need to make arrangements.   Additionally, Jdeke just had surgery and I am covering to the best of my abilities while holding down a full time job, caring for an elderly dog and trying to bead.   Needless to say, I am overwhelmed and my focus is poor.   And you can tell, Mercury and five other planets are retrograde.   

10/20/22 - War of the Wings 2022.          I have survived this five day event as the Gate Minister.  Do not get me wrong, it was hard - tiring and wow.  I only saw the event site on Saturday afternoon, after we closed the gate.  I did get a moment to get a pair of new shoes ( booties) that Eleanor of Gray showed me.   My poor old Black slip on's are really looking ragged.  And I met a lovely Gentleman Vendor who is also a collector of Historic Beads and had a great conversation and talks of having a meet up at Pennsic.   

So, what did I learn.  My 2023 goal is to determine how to divide my Service to the Kingdom

My thank you list was lengthly:

 Catherine Yvonne King is with Jennifer Givens and 15 others.

War of the Wings 22

What an incredible event. It was so wonderful to see many I have not seen in years and have only dialoged with on-line. The Squee’s, the Hugs, the laughter, the food. “Thank Goodness for the food”.

There are many thanks you’s required as the Gate Minister. My first thank you is to Kari Blackwell Newby (Excellency Asta Knarrarbringa), thank you for allowing me to serve as your Gate Minister. I hope we met your expectations with humor and efficiency. My second thank you is to Paul Woodcutter and Tatiana Berezetskaia. You saw we were unable to break from the Gate and you were there each time with a breakfast or a dinner and sometimes both. You are both, the most incredible gentles and a return thank you shall head your way soon.  To Morwenna Trevethan, thank you for always being my Second Count buddy each morning. You brought laughter to the Gate and I am touched by your generosity.  To Elspeth Meresberie, my most heartfelt thanks for checking up on us during our 8:00 am to 10:00 pm runs to make sure our faces were not planted on the table. It was great to see you and spend what little time we had together and darn I need to make one of those shawls. To the beautiful faces of Hawkwood, your Excellency Gracia and your Excellency Veronica, Lady Sorcha, HL Lucrezia Sarta di Napoli and Kira Bouchonnet, thank you for checking on us and visiting with us and bringing more food. (PS -your Excellency Gracia – I have your plate and it shall be returned). To Adelhait Fuch, the Spaghetti Lunch fundraiser was a delight. I have never seen our Troll smile that big as they worked and ate. Thank you for supporting the new Crowns.

To my Peer and her consort, Haeflidge Annora Hall and Lord Robert Shockley of Avonsford, thank you for always being there and supporting my endeavors.

To the Security Staff – Master Alwin of Nottinghill Coill and Master Draco. Thank you for all that you did and keeping us safe.

To my staff, David Oxford and his consort Karen Oxford. I am glad you enjoyed working the Gate and even volunteered for additional shifts. And thanks to the generosity of Nottinghill Coill, and Honey Badger Tavern, you got to eat as well. You were a delight and thank you for hard booting my I Phone so it would stop sending 911 calls. Allegranza(Cathy Marie Edwards), Kathryn Smith, Sarah Lee Fesperman, Linda Anthony Sears and I know I am missing a few – but it was a blur at times. I offer you my greatest heartfelt thanks for being with us on the gate. You were efficient and detailed. No one could have asked for more.

To Meisterin Jdeke von Kolberg, I cannot refer to you as staff as I am appropriately your staff, but my greatest thanks for arriving Thursday and shipping me off to bed and working with me on Friday and Saturday besides planning shenanigans. As always it is entertaining.

And last but not least, to their Excellencies of Lions Keep, Marion Leoncina da Susa and Elazar of Northumbria. Thank you for allowing me to spend precious time with my Peer with laughter and food and to assist in the guarding of the right flank. It was a delight to fight the pirates.

In your service,

Adair of Makyswell

So!  It is now 2023.  After looking back - I really have overlooked some very important items.

My art was published in the Oak (Kingdom of Atlantia MOAS Newsletter) -

https://oak.atlantia.sca.org/welcome-to-the-new-online-version-of-the-oak/ .  10/25/22- Our persona competition pieces were highlighted and I did agree too write two articles for the Oak ( well, maybe three).  1. One about how to manage between Service and Art in the Kingdom and the burn out it can entail.  2.  Bead Embroidery and its Historic significance and   It was agreed I would write two articles and do a Question and Answer as a third article specifying what I was doing to making decisions between service and Arts and Sciences.  That should be a weighty subject.

I have been drafting and have realized it really is a weighty subject to write about.  I would like to develop and more humerous approach.    I feel the Second Article has already been written but I will have to expand upon the Power Point that I have.   I have been very busy prepping for Twelfth Night Gate and Reservations.    And of course work has been non-stop.  But I still have had beading time and that is important.  One item that I have realized is my SCA Historic beading has been all consuming to the point where I have not been able to do my type of beading work.  I need to think this through. through.                                                  

I know that the commentary from Adrian was really weighing on my mind.  Father was praising his wife's apprentice and her bead embroidery with photographs and the Laurel commented,  "It would be good to see how she does on Historical pieces and research."    There you have it.  That really stuck with me so my focus has been on historical pieces.  I am on a mission.

1/13/23- I took my first Kingdom Scroll Assignment for a Pearl.  It is to be delivered at Coronation of Afshin Nanaie and Yasmin Farrah. 

Next UP:  Twelfth Night

1/19/23 - Twelfth Night is one of my more favored events in the SCA.  The Glitz - The Glamour and just the fun of seeing good friends and enjoying delicious food by SCA cooks.  I was the Reservationist and the Gate Minister for this years Twelfth Night on 1/7/23 in Winston-Salem at the Masons Lodge which was only 10 minutes from my Peer's Home.  

I arrived at Annora and Adrians home around 2:00 pm and Carol Atkins was right behind me.  We sat and caught up and then Carol wanted to go to the Hanes Outlet Store and then the Used Book Shops in the Area.  OH MY!  The Hanes Outlet is to die for.  I was the only one who bought anything - (2) sets of Pajama's and (2) six packs of socks.  Then at the Used Book Store #1- I found Book Two (Paper and Blood )of the Ink and Sigil Series by Kevin Hearne HB.  Book Four - Times Convert (Deborah Harkness) HB and two Iron Druid Chronical books (Arrgh).  

I went to bed early since I had to be there early the next day- Then Twelfth Night.  I also had a Tempore submission and a Display set up.  Set up the Gate and the day began.  I closed the Gate at 2:00 pm and then got to see the Vendor Area- (OMGosh!  I got the loveliest Scissor, Needle, Seam Ripper in a Victorian style) - Got to do a fast walk through of the A&S area- headed over to the Feast Hall and enjoyed (2) Glasses of Mead and sat and talked to MaryBeth - then had to Breakdown the A&S items and pack them up.  

Then Prep for Court.  Annora and Eleanor of Grey held me a seat while I was counting.  LOL!  Never ends.  For my unfinished Pelican Cap and Display - I received a Silver Nautilus along with other artisans in the Tempore.  I have waited a very long time for a Silver Nautilus and I was thrilled.