Dearest Friends,

What a glorious weekend. Saturday we were workers, enjoying the crowd that the gray hounds did bring with them. On Sunday, it was our turn to play. Our morning started as we entered and were told that Samantha and Skylar had won a cookie, we looked at the kind boy hawking them with confusion, as he explained it was true, someone had treated them to cookies. So out into the bright blue morning the children chanted a “Thank You”, to that mysterious person. The day was warm, yet a cool breeze graced the air. The sky was the blue of a new babies eyes, with only scattered fluffy clouds bouncing in the distance. Our first stop was to get our bellies painted. As I stood, being a blank canvas, I was ever so thrilled at the masterpiece that came from her talented hand. She said my energy was high, and given it was the day of my birth, I am sure she was right. Samantha would follow my lead, getting her belly decorated for this wonderful day. The morning was filled with making our way though the shire, picking up items here and there, all the merchants so willing to bless us on this, a wondrous day. Upon visiting one of our favorite acts, Minstrels of Mayhem, (ahem), I got my picture taken with MOM, something more to celebrate this glowing day. We would then journey to the Pub, for music and food. A dear old friend, Craig of Farrington took the stage and I was given a birthday wish from the stage. I was so touched and surprised. We left the pub, to do more wandering, more visiting. When we got to Samantha’s employer, we were so blessed with their kindness. Not only were they filled with warm wished, they also gifted me with a fine piece for my ear (Ear Art). They were ever so thoughtful. After running into a group of some wonderful minstrels, and being sung a song that would bring a tear to the bravest eye, we were thrilled to meet the bride and groom of the day. Both were so full of joy and pleasant, we so enjoyed their company. Skylar showed his strength, climbing to the top of the wall, and Samantha adopted a small fairy, showing her softer side. Michael was looking so handsome in his new hunter green shirt, and put me on a pedestal so high I was flying with the eagles. As I ran to pick up a package we had left for safe keeping with a neighboring merchant, I again was greeted with well wishes, and a cookie to boot! (a wonderful cookie might I add!) We had opportunity to enjoy some shade and catch up with some old friends, and were given some of the best bread this side of the border. Our day would end with a pub sing so happy, and even a bit….gay (leave it to the Toga Party)….! As I looked around, I saw so many faces I have grown to respect on so many levels, faces I love to no end. A place where tragedy ends, and magic begins, a sanctuary, where so many find peace, rolling land hosting this spectacular shire. I could hear voices all joining to end a day with good cheer and hope. The smell of ale and turkey legs, incense and oils, all mixing together to create, the smells of being home. I found this glorious day, home is truly where you hang your heart, you hang it out for all to see, for all to hold, for all to know, and for my family, our hearts are found in Willy Nilly on the Wash. ~