This weekend was....uneven. Hectic plans and cooking...travel to hotel...early am rising to get set up all very fast paced and stressful.

Then we waited...first for the candidate (a storey for Eldred or Ealdthryth to tell I am sure) then for folks to come by the vigil. Excellent help and company though.

Then we had a smidge of down time and I got to visit with Effenwealt and Aenore then it was Court time. I had never spoken for a candidate, only for regalia (usually the cloak) so I was nervous. It went okay and yes, I cried.

Then there was more waiting while the girls sang for High Table. Nice job and the audience was very generous in their appreciation. Too late to meet folks so Taco Bell and hotel beds before travelling home on Sunday to get costumes ironed out for Halloween.

So...Best and Worst

WORST

Too much to do...too little time. Horrible schedules at work and big weekend responsibilities means no down time for Ann.

Knocking over the damn centerpiece and watching strawberries pop off like pearls escaping from a broken necklace.

"If he is not here in five minutes, His Majesty says we will have to postpone." What???? The strawberries are on the tree...the chicken and pork are out of the cooler.....ummmm, weeelll, okay.

Missing Nia, Nikulai and Daemon and hoping they are okay. Lack of cell service at Kings Mtn.

Feeling faint and having vertigo when you need to be right on.

Interesting choices of folks as to displays of loyalty/choices in service.

Speaking last and having all your "buzz words" taken by the other Peer Worthies.

Long minstrels who get ahead of your daughters who are trying to sing then leave for dinner.

Too many flames at High Table.

BEST

The wheel tablecloth, candlesticks and spread of food on silver. Beautiful. Les and Emma, Meadh, COrmac and Muirgheal, rock!

His Majesty peeking under the tent flap to watch the road....he looked like a little boy.

Watching Eldred's face when he realized what this was.

An afternoon with great folks...Meadh and Muirgheal, Rhiannon, Briana, Calli, Michael Batcock.

The view of troll. Ummm eye candy should be part of every vigil site.

The horse procession...beautiful barding and the Queen looked so elegant.

Help with cleanup!!!!!!

Time with friends before court to unwind.

Our King! What great court moments we have had this reign!

Muirgheal's GOA. I stood to let her know how much I endorsed it.

Getting it back together after I got choked up in court.

Watching our daughters sing for a Crown who appreciates the effort. The patience of Sir Keigan and Duke Michael.

But the all time best???

Has to be the honor of speaking for someone who I have long admired and who has reminded me who I should be. Bran did not have to do that. It was a tremendous gift that I will cherish.

How was your weekend?