The Red Rose of Caledon - Part II

Well, my head is finally beginning to feel normal. Mixing whisky and bathtub gin may not be the best plan after all.

But what a wonderful Rez Day event it was. Yes, it has been 2 full nights since the First Caledon Lancers held the Dining-In and toasting contest in my honor in their Mess Hall on Middlesea. Yes, it has been 2 full nights since we completed the formal and VERY HUMBLING (for me) event and then rapidly changed into our best silent movies-themed garb and headed Upstairs for a phenomenal party. But....I am still moved beyond belief at the expressions of love and respect that were shown by many friends and neighbors, as well as Loch Avie's Own and the Knights of the Order of the Red Rose.

Special thanks to Colonel Exrex Somme, Colonel Hotspur O'Toole, Leftenant Diamanda Gustafson, and the rest of Loch Avie's Own First Caledon Lancers. I also very much appreciate the efforts of Sir Telemachus Dean and Sir Adso Krogstad of the ORR. As well, the night would not have been the same without the help of Boyarinya Eventide, Her Grace, Kate Nicholas, Her Grace of Carntaigh, Gabrielle Riel, Her Grace of Lionsgate, Kamilah Hauptmann, and Seneschal of Winterfell, Serra Annasi. But really, thanks to all of you - so very much. You make this Second existence much more fun; you help me nurture and express my creativity.

Guns, Airships, Boats, and - oh yes - Dancing

On Friday, the Conservatory a' Ghaidhealtachd was utilized by the Edison Corporation for their Masquerade Ball, which served as the formal introduction of this group to the Citizens of Caledon. Despite some issues early in the evening, the event turned out to be quite successful....a good time had by all.

The scene early in the evening

Dancing with Colonel Somme

Mr. Syxx Craig of the Edison Corporation plays his violin for the enjoyment of the crowd.

As this was the Corporation's event, I tried to stay in the crowd as much as possible, but I fear my hostessing instincts kicked in a couple of times, and I was perhaps more visible than I had intended to be. I did have to pop in and out of the event twice with some RL concerns, but was able to dance with a few of my favorite dance partners, and to speak with several of my friends as we enjoyed the music - and later the display of Edison products.

I am so thankful to Loch Avie's Own, the Caledon First Lancers, for providing an honor guard to the event. I am sorry that I missed the review of the troops, which heralded the beginning of the ball, but I hear that they conducted themselves (as they always do) with the utmost professionalism and grace.

Colonel Somme presents Lieutenant Gustafson

As we talk about the Lancers, I am more than pleased to announce that Diamanda Gustafson was promoted to Lieutenant at the event. During the citation, Colonel Somme told those present of Dia's good service to the Lancers, Loch Avie, and Caledon by her faithful attendance at Lancer events and her willingness to assist with any need that arises. This night that included rescuing the music for the ball during my absence at the beginning. She took control of the stream as needed and kept playing wonderful selections for the remainder of the evening. I have thanked her privately, but now take time to do so in this public forum. My sincere thanks, LT Gustafson.

*bows*

LT Diamanda Gustafson

We gather outside to view the Edison Corporation product displays
guests including: Carntaigh, Colonel Somme, Loch Avie, Miss Wozniak, Cymru, and Colonel O'Toole

guests including: Kintyre (Lord Erasmus and Lady Lavendar), Lady Patty, and Cymru

Mr. Weatherwax of Prim Perfect, and Miss Glume
Miss Discovolante in the background

Dia and I examine the naval cannon

The next morning, I am inspired to put on the Fleet uniform and get a little ship piloting done.

I must say the Loch is beautiful in this light.

A Letter from the Guvnah's Office

Earlier this week, I recieved a guest by the name of Mr. Syxx Craig of the Edison Corporation. He entered the house with letter of introduction from Desmond, our dear Head of State.

It seems that Mr. Craig desires to host a Masquerade Ball by way of introduction of himself and his business associates to Caledon. With the assistance of The Guvnah, he made his way to Loch Avie to determine if I might be able to lend a hand. I sat down at my writing desk in the office and checked the calendar.

"Yes. Yes, I have time to meet with you this week, sir, for a scoping meeting and to begin the initial plans. February? Hmmm. Looks as though the 22nd and 29th of the month are open." I said.

"The 22nd should suit quite nicely, Your Grace. Thank you very much." he excitedly responded.

"Very well, then. Let us meet in the Loch Avie Public House on Tuesday night - say around 8:30pm to discuss your intentions and needs."

As the gentleman rose to take his leave nodding that he would not fail to be present at that time, my assistant reappeared and handed him his coat and hat. Mr. Craig took his leave of me.


As planned, we met and discussed his desires for the event. Loch Avie will host the Masquerade on February 22nd at 7:00pm SLT. Mr. Craig has requested the use of the Conservatory a' Ghaidhealtachd. What he describes is quite a classical event. He will create most of the decoration for the ballroom, and will also have display of many of The Edison Corporation's fine ships. Mr. Craig was concerned about security at the event. I tried not to laugh too heartily in the young man's presence, but I did chuckle and add that the Loch was well defended.

"Och! Dinna fash yourself, Mr. Craig. Many who will surely be present at the occasion are loyal to Caledon and Loch Avie. There will be knights of the Order of the Red Rose, members of the Academy of Arms, and members of the Caledon First Lancers in addition to many other noble and well-armed gentlemen and ladies present."

His eyes shot up at the thought of our Caledonian ladies bearing arms. I simply smiled and laying a hand on my lap felt the dirk sitting snuggly against my thigh - held by the antique lace garter given to me by my fiesty paternal grandmother.

"I shall ensure that you are contacted by the commanders of the Lancers if you should desire something formal by way of honor guard." I said.

The Invitation created by Mr. Craig

As we continued to discuss what would be required by way of communication and invitation, building and decorating, and prim space, Mr. Craig told me that he will make arrangements for the musical selections on his own. I nodded and told him that he need only tell me to whom the parcel stream should be assigned.

We said our goodbyes, a firm timeline in place for the work and the event. I thought to myself, "how unusually nice it will be to simply provide the venue for an event." I will be pleased to provide assistance as it is needed, but am really looking forward to simply enjoying myself and the other guests while Mr. Craig and the Edison Company get to know and entertain us.

Now....I really should start shopping before I head off to the ski slopes for a week's holiday.

Steelhead Salutes the Troops

My friends in Steelhead have hosted yet another wonderful series of events. The theme for Saturday, November 17th, was a salute to those who have served in the armed forces.

Salute to the Troops Day - Saturday, Nov 17
Veterans Appreciation Event *Honoring Gettysburg, WWI Armistice Day, and All Soldiers From All Eras!*
10:30AM - 6:30PM - Representative small military displays/campsites (various sites in the sim)
11AM - Armistice Day/Veterans Day Ceremony - Presentation.
1PM - Gettysburg Address Remembrance Day Ceremony - Presentation.
3PM - Infantry Parade and Review.
4:30PM - Cavalry Parade and Review.
6PM - Horse race around Steelhead Sim.
7PM - Military Ball.

Due to my own prior commitments and the real life commitments of my human, I was only able to be involved in the Cavalry Parade and Review. The Caledon First Lancers were to be a part of this event, therefore, I was proud and pleased to be among them as patron (and number one fan).

I am also pleased to announce that the Lancers were awarded first place in the review. Well done all!

Commander, Caledon First Lancers, Colonel Exrex Somme
Lieutenant Colonel, Hotspur O'Toole

Gathering at the parade starting point - awaiting command to move out

Saluting Steelhead at the Parade Reviewing Stands

Salute!

The crowd at the reviewing stands

I watch with the Lancers as the other units parade.

Macklin Deckard and Edward Pearse represent Caledon Carntaigh

After the official judging - awaiting the awards.

Huzzah Lancers! First Place!

Thank you Steelhead and thank you Mr. and Mrs. Decosta for your coordination of these efforts.

Caledon Lancers, Loch Avie's Own

Assembled in Port Caledon
(Thanks to Lord Primbroke for use of this photograph.)

It was with great pride that I rode with the Caledon Lancers on Monday, September 10th, through the sims of the Independent State. The troops had not yet been reviewed by me, nor had they yet paraded past the citizens of our fair land until last night.

Colonel Somme and his second in command, Lt Colonel O'Toole chose the route with great care, yet despite the best planning the lag was a difficult obstacle to overcome. But overcome they did! Pride and perseverance moved them onward. There were nice crowds all along the way from Port Caledon to Loch Avie. The Lancers received the cheers and best wishes from all they passed.

The Lancers are:
Colonel Exrex Somme
Lt. Colonel Hotspur O'Toole
Trooper Telemachus Dean
Trooper Edward Pearse
Trooper Diamanda Gustafson

I should like to have a few more pictures from this grand parade. Alas the temperament of SL did not permit such, for I was terribly out of uniform after my first crash of the evening. Let us say that the sponsor of the Lancers does NOT wear a sleeveless uniform jacket, nor does she permit her photograph to be taken with only part of her updo on her head.

However, once we were in Loch Avie and the cheers of the assembled masses died down, I was able to slip over to the distillery to compose myself.

Colonel Somme calls the troopers to attention.

Review and thanks by Loch Avie

Upon my return, the Lancers were called to attention in formation by Colonel Exrex Somme. Riding the ranks, I felt my heart swell with pride for this elite group of horsemen and women, who would - and often have - given their all for Caledon and Loch Avie.

(photo credit: Lord Primbroke)

At the end of the formal segment of the evening's festivities, we retired to the pub, where I served the first round of Uisge Beatha to all present. Many toasts later, the group settled into many discussions, jokes, and dancing. We even gained a new volunteer or two.

The (tasty?) little beastie.

Trooper Pearse (aka Lord Primbroke) even dared to show us the wild haggis he had captured that very day. He and I have been discussing the re-haggification of the Loch. I suspect we will need to ask Lady Kate of the Royal Society and my House, to provide an animal specialist to assist in this endeavor. They MUST have someone knowledgeable in the needs and ways of the wild haggis. (Poor little dear must have been scared half out of his wits as many of us discussed the finer points of cooking a haggis and particular haggis ingredients.)

At any rate - and despite, or perhaps because of - our silliness, I am honored to be the patron of the Caledon Lancers.

Huzzah!