Renaissance Faire (Tahoe style)

The way gas prices have been going up maybe riding a horse isn't such a bad idea. Last weekend was Lake Tahoe's annual Renaissance Faire & Marketplace across from Camp Richardson. I really enjoy the whole Ren experience because you get to do the period piece thing dressing up from yet another era. Call it Halloween in last spring but the people are always a hoot and it's the one time of year where a guy can call a woman a 'wench' and not get in trouble over it. My favorite scene (outside of the jousting) was that of seeing three pirates standing in line at thouest ATM machine trying to get some pieces of eight. Some folks really get into character and when you talk to them they stay in character until they exit the place. In addition to the usual regalia and meeting the queen I was escorted by my own wench, Lady Nancy of the Lake. We met plenty of pirates from all over the New World and some exchanged pieces of eight for brandy that I just happened to have in case of getting out of tight spots.
On the way out I was arrested for turning my back on the Queen and was jailed briefly and then placed in a stockade where I was found guilty and had ice cold water poured over my head repeatedly. There was no online capability back then so if one had to email it was through the town cryer and there were a few of those too. All in all a good time was had by all and I may trade in my ancient vehicle for that of a horse and start thinking 'green' as summer approaches. I can recycle the horse's carbon dioxide and maybe create some gas on the side who knows? The producer of the Ren Faire asked if I might be interested in performing on stage with a lute dressed in my court jester outfit. The way the economy is going I may keep my options open.