My Dearest Corwynne,
Things have been so busy these past few weeks. I never realized how hard it would be to get into the swing of things. But I am sure I will figure it out eventually. Yesterday's birthday party was a success, in spite of the rains and the flooding of the yard. The tent held it's own against the torrents and the kids seemed to enjoy themselves whether wet or dry.
The most annoying aspect of the party was TV-Boyfriend. Since the sun didn't come out, he thought it would be fun to join in the party. His idea of fun with children consists of standing behind them and pretending that he is going to eat them. This has it's humorous moments but after four hours it is just tedious. I believe that his time with us is becoming more limited day by day.
The Birthday boy is packing his bags for the summer program in the White City. He has some battle plans he would like to discuss with the King and plans to bring his new chemistry set to see if he and Mithrandir can come up with anything new they can use. While he is away Leggs and I will be trying to prepare for Pennsic. Leggs will be attending this year. There was a bit of a debate, he didn't want to come if TV-B was coming, so he was pleased that I have not invited him.
Leggs is so excited. He keeps going on about all the things he wants to do and the trees he wants to sleep in. He also seems to be very excited about spending time with Melanie. He is hoping that she will let him braid her hair. I wonder how she will feel about that. I guess we shall see.
Your affectionate friend,
Kendrah
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Kids Today
My Dearest Kendrah,
Congratulations on passing your test! And on the first try too! Aragorn was delighted as well, once I explained the intricacies of modern licensing laws. Sadly, the explanation didn't do me much good. It just set him off another rant about how no one trusts each other any more and why can't people just agree and shake hands and make their word their bond? I managed to forstall more ranting by reminding him he had a hunting date with Leggs and the gang and he'd better get a move on before they were all so drunk they couldn't shoot straight.(Elves excepted of course)FYI, it appears Celeborn is staying on in Mirkwood for the rest of the summer. He gave some flimsy excuse about wanting to renegotiate territorial rights on some of the property reclaimed from Mordor, but I suspect he's avoiding you know who. July humidity in Lothlorien can wreak havoc on perfectly coiffed blonde ringlets and no one wants to be around for that fit of rage!
PreCollege is going...I won't say well...but it's going. Actually, aside from one particularly inept student assistant, the administration is going fine. It's the kids that are a mess. We've only just started our third week and so far I've lost two to homesickness. (I tried administering a nice athelas tea, but to no avail.) One is a cutter (in therapy), several eating disorders, one or two nervous breakdowns caused by traunatic memories of childhood issues triggered by something that happened in class, all on top of the usual issues that come with being sixteen and away from home for the first time. We have a great support network though, so I'm hoping everyone gets the care they need. Teenagers are so very YOUNG.
I am hoping the summer program we're running in the White City has less drama involved. I'm still annoyed that I let Aragorn talk me into it, but it's a good way for the youth of Gondor to get valuable hands-on experience while spending three weeks in the royal household. I'm thrilled that Leggs agreed to teach archery and I'm hoping you are available to lead the tour when we take our overnight field trip to the Settlement. Eowyn has worked up a wonderful martial program for the girls. Eomer has sent some folks to run the riding section as well as some horses for us to use. Alas, most of the horses we have we have in the City are trained for war and not suitable for a beginning rider. I can't wait for your eldest son to get here! We've enrolled him in the Siege Warfare and Field Tactics track. Aragorn swears your kid is a siege warfare savant and can't wait to chat with him! Mithrandir is looking forwarding to working with him as well. He claims he hasn't had a decent pupil since Faramir got his commission! Unfortunately, I'll be spending all this week brushing up on Gondorian Ettiqette. Seems the I'm charge of the Domestic Page option. I tried to point out that there might be more qualified leaders for this track, but tradition has it it must be the queen (or the Steward's wife)and Eowyn already has a full schedule it's up to me. I just hope the track isn't full of giggling adolescent girls who think this might be their best way to get close to the King (My boyfriend, after all, is sooo dreamy!)
Well, I have rambled on long enough and I still have to go to the library to collect a rather ponderous tome on the proper way to serve various cuts of venison, so I should be going. I hope is well with you!
Your Affectionate Friend,
Corwynne
Congratulations on passing your test! And on the first try too! Aragorn was delighted as well, once I explained the intricacies of modern licensing laws. Sadly, the explanation didn't do me much good. It just set him off another rant about how no one trusts each other any more and why can't people just agree and shake hands and make their word their bond? I managed to forstall more ranting by reminding him he had a hunting date with Leggs and the gang and he'd better get a move on before they were all so drunk they couldn't shoot straight.(Elves excepted of course)FYI, it appears Celeborn is staying on in Mirkwood for the rest of the summer. He gave some flimsy excuse about wanting to renegotiate territorial rights on some of the property reclaimed from Mordor, but I suspect he's avoiding you know who. July humidity in Lothlorien can wreak havoc on perfectly coiffed blonde ringlets and no one wants to be around for that fit of rage!
PreCollege is going...I won't say well...but it's going. Actually, aside from one particularly inept student assistant, the administration is going fine. It's the kids that are a mess. We've only just started our third week and so far I've lost two to homesickness. (I tried administering a nice athelas tea, but to no avail.) One is a cutter (in therapy), several eating disorders, one or two nervous breakdowns caused by traunatic memories of childhood issues triggered by something that happened in class, all on top of the usual issues that come with being sixteen and away from home for the first time. We have a great support network though, so I'm hoping everyone gets the care they need. Teenagers are so very YOUNG.
I am hoping the summer program we're running in the White City has less drama involved. I'm still annoyed that I let Aragorn talk me into it, but it's a good way for the youth of Gondor to get valuable hands-on experience while spending three weeks in the royal household. I'm thrilled that Leggs agreed to teach archery and I'm hoping you are available to lead the tour when we take our overnight field trip to the Settlement. Eowyn has worked up a wonderful martial program for the girls. Eomer has sent some folks to run the riding section as well as some horses for us to use. Alas, most of the horses we have we have in the City are trained for war and not suitable for a beginning rider. I can't wait for your eldest son to get here! We've enrolled him in the Siege Warfare and Field Tactics track. Aragorn swears your kid is a siege warfare savant and can't wait to chat with him! Mithrandir is looking forwarding to working with him as well. He claims he hasn't had a decent pupil since Faramir got his commission! Unfortunately, I'll be spending all this week brushing up on Gondorian Ettiqette. Seems the I'm charge of the Domestic Page option. I tried to point out that there might be more qualified leaders for this track, but tradition has it it must be the queen (or the Steward's wife)and Eowyn already has a full schedule it's up to me. I just hope the track isn't full of giggling adolescent girls who think this might be their best way to get close to the King (My boyfriend, after all, is sooo dreamy!)
Well, I have rambled on long enough and I still have to go to the library to collect a rather ponderous tome on the proper way to serve various cuts of venison, so I should be going. I hope is well with you!
Your Affectionate Friend,
Corwynne
Friday, June 30, 2006
Licensing
My Dearest Corwynne,
I am happy to report that today I passed my licensing exam. This was truly a miracle considering the obstacles that were put in my way. I had a an early meeting for planning a summit seminar for next year, cause you know we don't have a full year to plan and must do this now. My test was scheduled for noon so I had to scurry. Once I was at the testing center, settled in to take the test Leggs popped in, because we needed to spend quality time together. I tried to quietly explain that the test was something that I need to do alone and that our talking was disturbing the others. Finally, he understood and said that he would just sit quietly nearby.
The silence was broken by his terror filled yelp. He saw my photo popped up on the computer screen and his rant began. "The evil one has taken my beloved's face!" "This cannot be!" "He has besmirched her image." I try to explain that it is a security measure to have my picture on my palantir box. This caused the mumbling about the good old days and that a few woodland elves with stout bows had equaled security. He was not pleased when I mentioned that is how they lost Gollum. With an annoyed look (a slight squint of the eyes) he left and I got to take the rest of the test in peace. I am sure he will be fine given time. It will help that the men of the summit will be talking hunting and orc hunting all night. That always lifts his spirits.
Luckily TV-boyfriend understand computer and testing, plus it was daytime, so he did not make an appearance. He is hoping that we can celebrate with whisky and an onion blossom some time this weekend, but I have several summit seminars to attend so I don't know if I will have time.
Hope all is well in the White City and that you are enjoying the Summit as much as I am.....
Your affectionate friend,
Kendrah
I am happy to report that today I passed my licensing exam. This was truly a miracle considering the obstacles that were put in my way. I had a an early meeting for planning a summit seminar for next year, cause you know we don't have a full year to plan and must do this now. My test was scheduled for noon so I had to scurry. Once I was at the testing center, settled in to take the test Leggs popped in, because we needed to spend quality time together. I tried to quietly explain that the test was something that I need to do alone and that our talking was disturbing the others. Finally, he understood and said that he would just sit quietly nearby.
The silence was broken by his terror filled yelp. He saw my photo popped up on the computer screen and his rant began. "The evil one has taken my beloved's face!" "This cannot be!" "He has besmirched her image." I try to explain that it is a security measure to have my picture on my palantir box. This caused the mumbling about the good old days and that a few woodland elves with stout bows had equaled security. He was not pleased when I mentioned that is how they lost Gollum. With an annoyed look (a slight squint of the eyes) he left and I got to take the rest of the test in peace. I am sure he will be fine given time. It will help that the men of the summit will be talking hunting and orc hunting all night. That always lifts his spirits.
Luckily TV-boyfriend understand computer and testing, plus it was daytime, so he did not make an appearance. He is hoping that we can celebrate with whisky and an onion blossom some time this weekend, but I have several summit seminars to attend so I don't know if I will have time.
Hope all is well in the White City and that you are enjoying the Summit as much as I am.....
Your affectionate friend,
Kendrah
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Summit
My Dearest Kendrah,
I hope my letter finds you well. I, as you know am deeply embroiled in the Middle Earth Peace Summit as well as the opening weekend of PreCollege. I am pleased to report that both seem to be going smoothly.
Last night’s opening ceremonies went very well. Mithrandir can always be counted on to awe the “Lesser Men” with his fireworks. Thanks to the Gondor Veterans’ Rehabilitation Project, we were able to provide beautiful chairs that met the seating requirements of our smaller-stature guests. I must remember to send Gimli a thank you gift for reminding me of the special needs of our shorter kindred.
This morning’s opening presentation by folks from the Settlement was well received. Apparently your spin doctors were able cover-up that attempted lynching. I had to pop over to run my pre college faculty meeting but made it back in time to catch most of Mayor Gamgee’s update on the Habitat for Hobbits program. Several Southron ambassadors hope to start a similar project in their homeland. Then I was back to Pgh for student orientation meetings. When I leave tonight, I’ll be hosting a dinner for the wives, consorts, etc. of the ambassadors. I suspect the men are retiring to Elessar’s study to smoke pipeweed, sip ale and eat imported pizzas. Fine with me. I’m just thrilled Gladders decided to sit this summit out and let Celeborn come by himself. He’s so much amusing when he’s unattached. I’m stuck with Eowyn, but she’s promised to be on her best behavior.
Well, I need to finish the dance placement audition sheets so I can make it back to the White City in time to change for dinner. I may be out of touch for the next week or so until I can get the summit and my teenagers all straightened out. Say a prayer to Elbereth for me!
Your Affectionate Friend,
Corwynne
I hope my letter finds you well. I, as you know am deeply embroiled in the Middle Earth Peace Summit as well as the opening weekend of PreCollege. I am pleased to report that both seem to be going smoothly.
Last night’s opening ceremonies went very well. Mithrandir can always be counted on to awe the “Lesser Men” with his fireworks. Thanks to the Gondor Veterans’ Rehabilitation Project, we were able to provide beautiful chairs that met the seating requirements of our smaller-stature guests. I must remember to send Gimli a thank you gift for reminding me of the special needs of our shorter kindred.
This morning’s opening presentation by folks from the Settlement was well received. Apparently your spin doctors were able cover-up that attempted lynching. I had to pop over to run my pre college faculty meeting but made it back in time to catch most of Mayor Gamgee’s update on the Habitat for Hobbits program. Several Southron ambassadors hope to start a similar project in their homeland. Then I was back to Pgh for student orientation meetings. When I leave tonight, I’ll be hosting a dinner for the wives, consorts, etc. of the ambassadors. I suspect the men are retiring to Elessar’s study to smoke pipeweed, sip ale and eat imported pizzas. Fine with me. I’m just thrilled Gladders decided to sit this summit out and let Celeborn come by himself. He’s so much amusing when he’s unattached. I’m stuck with Eowyn, but she’s promised to be on her best behavior.
Well, I need to finish the dance placement audition sheets so I can make it back to the White City in time to change for dinner. I may be out of touch for the next week or so until I can get the summit and my teenagers all straightened out. Say a prayer to Elbereth for me!
Your Affectionate Friend,
Corwynne
Monday, June 12, 2006
Long Time
My Dearest Corwynne,
I just realized how long it has been since I have written. There has been so much going on, what with work and getting ready for the Middle Earth Peace Summit, I have hardly had a free moment.
THe plans for the seminar which will be lead by the senior memebers of the settlement are finally coming together. The biggest debate was what to call it. I thought that "Hey, can't we all get along" was the best choice since it seems to be the phrase of choice in these parts. However I was out voted and the title is "How to Live in Peace and Harmony with Beings of Other Races"
I think that attendees will be disappointed since those giving the seminar have yet to achieve their lofty goal. Especially since they nearly lynched TV-Boyfriend when he came for a visit. We weren't surprised or anything, you know...evil, but to try to lynch someone and then talk about teaching others to be tolerant two days late just seemed like too much.
Still they talk a good game and I am sure we will suss out a way to make it work. Speaking of work, it is time for me to get there.
Hope all is well in the White City.
Your Affectionate Friend,
Kendrah
I just realized how long it has been since I have written. There has been so much going on, what with work and getting ready for the Middle Earth Peace Summit, I have hardly had a free moment.
THe plans for the seminar which will be lead by the senior memebers of the settlement are finally coming together. The biggest debate was what to call it. I thought that "Hey, can't we all get along" was the best choice since it seems to be the phrase of choice in these parts. However I was out voted and the title is "How to Live in Peace and Harmony with Beings of Other Races"
I think that attendees will be disappointed since those giving the seminar have yet to achieve their lofty goal. Especially since they nearly lynched TV-Boyfriend when he came for a visit. We weren't surprised or anything, you know...evil, but to try to lynch someone and then talk about teaching others to be tolerant two days late just seemed like too much.
Still they talk a good game and I am sure we will suss out a way to make it work. Speaking of work, it is time for me to get there.
Hope all is well in the White City.
Your Affectionate Friend,
Kendrah
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