Fun + Busy

This time of year is the most frantic, productive, stressed out, and fun. I'm getting a whole bunch of new stuff to the casting company this week. Sent off the tiny laurel, the Caid cross pin, a bunch of sized ring waxes for the big bling ring, and the 6mm quatrefoil setting. In the next couple of days it will be the tiny Pel for the Pel/Laurel, the long-awaited barbed-wire laurel, and a Duc du Berry-style illuminated dragon pin.

Then I get to make stock for Western Crown and start the production frenzy for Pennsic. I got my official letter from Cindy Cooper. I wasn't really worried, but it's always nice to get that letter, because so much depends on Pennsic.

I think I've figured out a way to get material to make a little woven-willow shade arbor to put next to the hooch, between us and Okewode Hall. I can find tree-support poles locally, and Ikea carries bundles of willow branches, and they have them in stock in Pittsburgh. Maybe I can pick some up on the way from the airport, especially if Dave (Gambeson Gareth) drives out in the Mondo Truck of Doom. If I weave a permanent panel of willow, we can reuse it each year. I like the illusion of permanence. I want to make better use of that courtyard-like space, to make it inviting for visitors and musicians. I think that attractive shade is the best possible thing, followed by seating. The Bardo Brothers usually make a grass-topped bench seat that is very nice. Hmm. I think there is a shovel already in the hooch.

Obviously enough time has passed that I am looking forward to Pennsic again. :-)