11 May 2008
Mother’s Day
My poor mother hasn’t had a decent observance of Mother’s Day from her daughter in about fifteen years! That’s about how long my life has revolved around Renaissance festivals and I’ve been completely occupied on Sundays in May! Every time I see a mother and child, every time I receive or see someone else receive a rose from a rose vendor, every time I see someone on a cell phone . . . I am reminded of my mama and how understanding she is that there is no visit, no flower, no phone call even, from her daughter today. <sigh> I told her when I talked with her on Thursday, that I’d be thinking about her, and that I wished I would be able to call . . . but that likely I wouldn’t. But, just because I did not have a chance to call, does not mean that she is not constantly in my thoughts. Happy Mother’s Day, Mama!
One of the more unusual inquiries I’ve ever received came today. I frequently answer questions about history and fantasy, fabrics and trims, fashions and fashion faux pas. I settle debates about authenticity and I act as an information booth for the faire. But, I’m not sure I’ve ever had someone specifically seek me out to ask a question about identifying a piece of antique jewelry, before. Until today.
This nifty little pin (the only photo I took on Sunday) is the subject of the inquiry. It’s not the clearest picture ever, but this little brass pin is tiny! I believe it to be c. 1900, but I know nothing else about it. It seems to be brass, and the only symbol on the back is what looks to be a British pound sign—or it looks like an L with a line through it, anyway. We’d love to know more about it, if anyone out there has a clue!? The very sweet woman who brought it in, and asked for me, will appreciate it, too!
It was an absolutely beautiful day. Picture perfect. Like the awful mugginess of yesterday was only a bad dream. Stephen came out and played and hung out all day with us—Ed and some of his best friends joining him as well. We saw more people than we expected on Mother’s Day, but clothing isn’t a big seller on this holiday. East Wind Games kicked some butt, though! Woo hoo!
And, on a more contemplative note: I’m a lover of holidays and holy days, ritual and tradition. I’m a “Wheel of the Year” sort of gal. Today was one of those days that will forever be marked in the wheels of my years. 11 May is the anniversary of Roger’s death. It is unfathomable to me, that he has been gone for eight years! I lingered longer today, when passing by the display case in the booth showcasing my first noble garb, made for him. This little tribute to his life has been on display for years now, and only occasionally gets a public notice. It’s mostly there for me, I guess. Most days nobody says a word about it or even seems to see it while they are shopping. Today—I’ll bet a dozen people stopped, read the story and/or commented on the costume. It’s like the outfit had more of a presence today! I also managed to get to a Corsairs show, early in the day, and requested they sing “Fiddler’s Green.” That’s the song they sang for Roger the first faire day after his death in 2000. For me, that tune and those words are forever linked to Roger’s memory—especially when sung by the Corsairs.
And that, it seems won’t be happening on future anniversaries. The Corsairs are announcing their final show will happen on Memorial Day. Thirteen years, nine albums and lots of happy memories. They will be missed indeed.
~MB
