The SCA is an international medieval history re-creation and education group. All of us have always been fascinated by Medieval times. We research their architecture, life styles, clothing, arts, sciences, war-craft, tools, etc. and learn how to make them ourselves. Then, joy of joys, we dress up and spend a weekend living the life, competing, learning more, visiting, playing, and have a wonderful time.
My first exposure to the SCA was in Oceanside, CA. My sons were about 16 or so. They went to the park and saw these folks dressed as lords and ladies and fighting with rattan swords. Several couples had come from AZ and their vehicle had broken down on the way. They had to leave their tents, etc. in the car. My sons brought them home and asked if they could stay for the night. Of course I said yes. They turned out to be brewers and I had my first taste of honey mead, the nectar of the gods!
Life took over and years went by. I became disabled, retired and moved to Yelm, WA where I again met someone in the SCA. This time they took me to an event. I was in love! I met some of the most incredible folks and had more fun than I had had in years. I was hooked. That was 9 or 10 years ago. Since then I have played in the kingdoms of An Tir, Ansteorra, and Meridies.
Now I play in the Kingdom of Meridies, Shire of Arenal. This shire has some great people in it who really love to make beautiful things and play. We meet every Thursday at the commons of UWF for classes, meetings, and scribal arts. We meet every Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 at Optimist Park on Langley Blvd, just past the YWCA. We have fighter practice at the park. The folks dress up in armor and practice their fighting skills, archery, and fencing skills. The rest of us bring our weaving, sewing, etc., and cheer them on while we work and visit. We have so much fun. This has become my passion.
Since moving to the Shire, I have learned finger loop braiding, painting and illuminating scrolls, weaving trim for my gowns on an inkle loom, Viking cord weaving, making cord with a lucet, lampwork glass bead making, how to make gowns and tunics from the medieval period, making needle cases from turkey bones, henna painting, making masks from colored paper strips, How to correct mistakes in my garb, how to make a Persian Taj <hat>, and lots more. I have something creative to do most of the time.
Check out my photos page and you can see some of the gowns I've made and things that I have woven. Check my links page for the link to the SCA in your area.