"Okay, so I was talking to K.C. and another question comes up. From what I gather from him, the new Prince/Princess appoint royal advisors from each of the Peerages. (Whether this is a standard or not, I'm not sure, but he said he watched it happen at one point.) He indicated that these advisors tend to be Royal Peers to make things easier, since they've already been in your shoes. He also indicated that you don't necessarily have to "know" them, but they should know ahead of time whether or not you wish to appoint them to this post and they should support your bid for Crown prior to your fighting in the tournament. From this point, they can advise you on the best method of operation. So my question is thus:
14) Who would you appoint from each of the Orders to be your three advisors?"
We have discussed this a little off the list, and I'm not sure this is required as you have it stated here. I think we've agreed that they don't have to be Peers, but it's a good idea if they are. And I think the term is Thegns, but this may be something completely different than what you're asking.
Since I have not talked to anyone about this, these are just some initial thoughts. I am not asking or appointing anyone right now. These are just some people that come to mind right at this moment.
Knight: Sir Toen, Sir Yoshimitsu, Sir Ivan
Laurel: Mistress Maerwynn, HG Mistress Syr Ariel, Master Sir Waldryk
Pelican: Master Sir Toen, HG Mistress Syr Ariel, Master Modar
These are all off the top of my head. I'm sure these would change and others may be added once I get closer to deciding. Plus it depends on them, of course.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Answer 12 & 13: Preprints
"12) On the subject of preprints and awards, would you prefer to set someone else to design them or would you be more prone to designing them yourself?
I realize from what I read today that preprints for a reign appear to be done at least a month before an actual reign starts (which makes sense considering the fact that they want to give out awards during the beginning of their reign, but I'd simply never really considered it). Basically, as the reigns stand now, you have three months to either design or have someone else design 5(?) preprint awards (plus, I'm sure, quite a few other things to do or decide).
13) Would your awards be in a Japanese style and, if so, did the Japanese give out awards like they did in the West? If not, what century/culture would you choose?"
Since I do not have any experience on designing a scroll, I would probably be more comfortable with someone else designing it. However, I would want to have some input on the design. I've always like the scrolls that have a common theme for a reign. Like during Suzanna's last reign, they tried to have a representation of Hubert somewhere on the scroll. I find that interesting and unique for that particular reign.
The style of the scrolls would still be European based, but I might have a few Japanese touches made to it. I don't want to force my persona's culture on someone's scroll. I would however wish to have have something Japanese on it, probably kanji, so that it would be unique and identifiable from my reign.
Whether the Japanese gave out awards like in the West, I have not researched it, and I have not heard much of such awards. I'm sure they did to a certain extent, but to how much they did, I am not aware of that. Since the country was divided up into warring clans, I'm sure some awards were given, but they only would be worth anything in their own territory.
I realize from what I read today that preprints for a reign appear to be done at least a month before an actual reign starts (which makes sense considering the fact that they want to give out awards during the beginning of their reign, but I'd simply never really considered it). Basically, as the reigns stand now, you have three months to either design or have someone else design 5(?) preprint awards (plus, I'm sure, quite a few other things to do or decide).
13) Would your awards be in a Japanese style and, if so, did the Japanese give out awards like they did in the West? If not, what century/culture would you choose?"
Since I do not have any experience on designing a scroll, I would probably be more comfortable with someone else designing it. However, I would want to have some input on the design. I've always like the scrolls that have a common theme for a reign. Like during Suzanna's last reign, they tried to have a representation of Hubert somewhere on the scroll. I find that interesting and unique for that particular reign.
The style of the scrolls would still be European based, but I might have a few Japanese touches made to it. I don't want to force my persona's culture on someone's scroll. I would however wish to have have something Japanese on it, probably kanji, so that it would be unique and identifiable from my reign.
Whether the Japanese gave out awards like in the West, I have not researched it, and I have not heard much of such awards. I'm sure they did to a certain extent, but to how much they did, I am not aware of that. Since the country was divided up into warring clans, I'm sure some awards were given, but they only would be worth anything in their own territory.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Answer 11: Type of Consort
"Which is more important to you and why...
...to rule with your significant other (ie, the person you love)?
...or to rule with someone you know will make a good ruler?"
The easy, and hopefully obvious answer is BOTH. But, I understand the basis of the question. If I had to choose, which would I? Considering my situation has changed a tad since this question was probably asked originally, it makes for a interesting question to ponder.
Ideally, I'd hope that my consort would be both, and since I was not seeing anyone when I decided to fight in Crown, I was resolved that my Consort would be someone who would make a good ruler. But now that I am seeing Isolda, that puts a different outlook on it. However, since she is new to the SCA, I don't think it would be fair to her or Calontir if she was my consort at this time, but I would consider her in the future. That would be a baptism by fire and putting more stress on the reign that will already be there.
Now I was just speaking specifically to my situation right now. If you mean generally speaking, and the person could not be both my significant other and a good ruler, then I would probably lean towards someone who is a good ruler for my first reign. If this wasn't my first reign, then I would go with my significant other. And this is with the assumption that we both think she would be able to handle being Queen, or that she even wants to be Queen.
In the end, the best scenario would be that my consort would be both someone I love, and someone who would be a good ruler.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Crown Roundtable
While at Fall RUSH, I made an audio recording of a roundtable on being Crown. It actually came out pretty decently, even with the interuptions. Once you've had a chance to listen to it, I would like your thoughts on the matter.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Question 1.3 & Goal
1.3) After the discussion on money, have you had a better chance to figure out how much money you need to have for your reign? Are you saving money for it?
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Clothing Goal
So, did you make an outfit or at least part of an outfit for the month of September? :) If so, where are the pics?
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Question 17
I'm going to start this question by saying it was prompted by reading through SCA Crowns. There is a lot of information on that page that might shed another light on the subject matter at hand.
You were seneschal for roughly 3 years. From what I've read or found thus far, being Crown is that responsibility times a factor of 10. I encourage you to answer the question before reading the above page, then to read the above page and see if your answer differs.
17) How do you see the responsibility of Crown and your abilities of maintaining an even keel without becoming overwhelmed?
You were seneschal for roughly 3 years. From what I've read or found thus far, being Crown is that responsibility times a factor of 10. I encourage you to answer the question before reading the above page, then to read the above page and see if your answer differs.
17) How do you see the responsibility of Crown and your abilities of maintaining an even keel without becoming overwhelmed?
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Answer 10: First Order of Business
"What do you think/feel would be your first order of business as a newly Crowned King? or a newly Crowned Prince?"
Definitely banishment of certain people who annoy me. Yeah!
Ok, seriously. I have thought about this, and I don't really know for sure. Whenever I think about it, I remember something HG Kensor said once when asked about his feelings on his reigns. He said (and I'm drastically paraphrasing) that his first reign he really didn't know what he was doing, so he didn't want to do anything to screw things up. He was just along for the ride and to gain experience. For his second reign, he had an idea what it was like, and he had some things he wanted to do. Since he had that first reign under his belt, he had a better idea what he could do and couldn't do, and what obstacles he may face.
I feel that is pretty good logic. I'm going to assume that I'm not going to be a popular King anyway, so I don't really want to piss people off more than necessary. I'm not saying I'm going to be a pushover, but I don't think I want to openly and aggressively change things that might not be popular opinion.
However, one thing that I feel strongly about because I am a parent is activities for minors at events. I would want to make a change to Kingdom Law that if there are no youth activities scheduled at a event, no fee should be charged to minors. I think it is unfair for parents and children to pay to come to an event, but then have nothing for the children to do. This would be like charging admission for your children to go to a movie, and have them stare at a blank screen. I hope this would encourage groups to plan more children's activities, and thus get kids interested in the SCA at an earlier age. Maybe even promote some kid oriented events.
Definitely banishment of certain people who annoy me. Yeah!
Ok, seriously. I have thought about this, and I don't really know for sure. Whenever I think about it, I remember something HG Kensor said once when asked about his feelings on his reigns. He said (and I'm drastically paraphrasing) that his first reign he really didn't know what he was doing, so he didn't want to do anything to screw things up. He was just along for the ride and to gain experience. For his second reign, he had an idea what it was like, and he had some things he wanted to do. Since he had that first reign under his belt, he had a better idea what he could do and couldn't do, and what obstacles he may face.
I feel that is pretty good logic. I'm going to assume that I'm not going to be a popular King anyway, so I don't really want to piss people off more than necessary. I'm not saying I'm going to be a pushover, but I don't think I want to openly and aggressively change things that might not be popular opinion.
However, one thing that I feel strongly about because I am a parent is activities for minors at events. I would want to make a change to Kingdom Law that if there are no youth activities scheduled at a event, no fee should be charged to minors. I think it is unfair for parents and children to pay to come to an event, but then have nothing for the children to do. This would be like charging admission for your children to go to a movie, and have them stare at a blank screen. I hope this would encourage groups to plan more children's activities, and thus get kids interested in the SCA at an earlier age. Maybe even promote some kid oriented events.
Answer 9: Largess
"More out of curiosity than anything, is there a certain etiquette to inner Kingdom relations where largesse is concerned? What is generally considered "good" largesse? What is usually a good goal toward making sure you have enough largesse? Are you supposed to give something to whatever other Crown you meet or is it a War thing? (ie, you're at their War, give them something or they are at your War, give them something!)"
This is a very good question, and I don't have an answer for. I believe it is good taste that you have largess for any visiting Royalty regardless if you are visiting them, or they are visiting you. But I could be wrong. I'm hoping my Thegn's will help me with this.
What is considered "good" largesse is also uncertain to me. I don't believe it has to be anything grand and spectacular. It could be for the individual, or for the Kingdom they are from. I think I remember one Kingdom donating purple and gold fabric to us to use as war tabbards, but I could be wrong.
I have also heard of some Crowns giving "lands" to other Kingdom's Crown. For example, giving one acre of land outside of Forgotten Sea to the King and Queen of the Outlands. It's nothing in reality, but the gesture and schtick is there. I believe Elvis's Graceland is unofficially part of Calontir because of a similar situation. But that may be Calon Legend.
To make sure we have enough Largess, would be to have largess competitions, or events. But other than that, I am pretty uncertain about the whole Largesse issue. I hope to learn more about it before it's too late.
This is a very good question, and I don't have an answer for. I believe it is good taste that you have largess for any visiting Royalty regardless if you are visiting them, or they are visiting you. But I could be wrong. I'm hoping my Thegn's will help me with this.
What is considered "good" largesse is also uncertain to me. I don't believe it has to be anything grand and spectacular. It could be for the individual, or for the Kingdom they are from. I think I remember one Kingdom donating purple and gold fabric to us to use as war tabbards, but I could be wrong.
I have also heard of some Crowns giving "lands" to other Kingdom's Crown. For example, giving one acre of land outside of Forgotten Sea to the King and Queen of the Outlands. It's nothing in reality, but the gesture and schtick is there. I believe Elvis's Graceland is unofficially part of Calontir because of a similar situation. But that may be Calon Legend.
To make sure we have enough Largess, would be to have largess competitions, or events. But other than that, I am pretty uncertain about the whole Largesse issue. I hope to learn more about it before it's too late.
Answer 8: Retinue
"What do you see as the role of retinue? What do you see is a reasonable retinue number? Who would you include in retinue? (This is a general question, not "who" specifically. ie, someone to do this, or someone to do that, etc.)"
The role of the retinue is to support the Crown, and to make sure everything runs smoothly. This could be from keeping the Crown's schedule and making sure they are where they need to be on time to hauling, setting up, and keeping track of the Regalia. Plus the retinue are the ones who stand with you in court as Champions, guards, ladies-in-waiting, heralds, etc. Basically, your entourage. :)
I would want someone in my retinue who is interested in seeing how things are done and who will give me their best. I would want people who have never been on retinue to get a chance if they want it. Of course, I'd prefer the Chamberlaine or someone who has done it before, so we are not all completely lost.
I would prefer people I knew, but it would not be a requirement. It would be a good chance to get to know someone. Someone who I think is cool, or shows promise, or someone I just want to get to know and think will do a good job, and most importantly, enjoy it.
There has been discussion on the amount of people in the retinue. You want a large enough number so that it does not tax people to travel every weekend. But you don't want too large a number that it's a hassle to keep people and things organized. I would think around ten or so would be efficient, depending on their activity. But I will have to feel that out more as the time gets closer. Things change, and people's lives change.
The role of the retinue is to support the Crown, and to make sure everything runs smoothly. This could be from keeping the Crown's schedule and making sure they are where they need to be on time to hauling, setting up, and keeping track of the Regalia. Plus the retinue are the ones who stand with you in court as Champions, guards, ladies-in-waiting, heralds, etc. Basically, your entourage. :)
I would want someone in my retinue who is interested in seeing how things are done and who will give me their best. I would want people who have never been on retinue to get a chance if they want it. Of course, I'd prefer the Chamberlaine or someone who has done it before, so we are not all completely lost.
I would prefer people I knew, but it would not be a requirement. It would be a good chance to get to know someone. Someone who I think is cool, or shows promise, or someone I just want to get to know and think will do a good job, and most importantly, enjoy it.
There has been discussion on the amount of people in the retinue. You want a large enough number so that it does not tax people to travel every weekend. But you don't want too large a number that it's a hassle to keep people and things organized. I would think around ten or so would be efficient, depending on their activity. But I will have to feel that out more as the time gets closer. Things change, and people's lives change.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Question 16.1
What does it mean to you to have a "Japanese reign" in the SCA?
I have seen varying amounts of this at different times. Do all courts happen on the floor? Does your Queen speak? (These are extreme examples I've witnessed.)
Scrolls, customs, etc. of the Japanese that fit in an SCA context? Or are you going for a Japanese person who suddenly is in charge of a Western court?
I have seen varying amounts of this at different times. Do all courts happen on the floor? Does your Queen speak? (These are extreme examples I've witnessed.)
Scrolls, customs, etc. of the Japanese that fit in an SCA context? Or are you going for a Japanese person who suddenly is in charge of a Western court?
Question 14.1
Kirstyn asks about "royal advisors" from the peerages. In my experience, recently some Crowns have appointed something like a peerage liaison (which I've been reading as kind of like the Fyrd liaison) to each of the peerages, but I don't know anything about royal advisors from each of the peerages. She may be talking about Thegns, which are advisors that the crown chooses for their reign. They are not necessarily peers. Sometimes they are previous monarchs, but sometimes they are just general populace members that that particular Crown thinks would be helpful. Thegns are registered in the OP (you can find a list of former ones there) because for the duration of the reign, they have grant-level status (see this site directly under the grant of arms heading for some more info). Not everyone has them, and some have lots. :o)
So, who would you consider to be your Thegn/s?
So, who would you consider to be your Thegn/s?
Monday, September 10, 2007
Answer #7: Consort Criteria
"7) What do you see as necessary criteria for your Crown "significant other"? Optional? Best case scenario?"
I assume you mean Consort here. I think the first criteria is that we get along, and work well together. If we can't get along, then everything else will be harder. I feel it best that we are of like mind. We don't have to agree on everything, but at least understand each other.
The second criteria is that she is knowledgeable of the SCA and how things are done. Best case scenario is that she was Queen once before. I think it'd be easier if one of us has done it before so we both are not stumbling around. But I plan on having good advisers so it shouldn't be a problem. I just think it might make it easier.
Lastly I'd want her to have a strong personality. So that she'd enjoy herself, and be able to be a good queen without doubting herself, or letting criticism bother her. She'd have to be kind, and able to deal with various types of people, including myself. :)
I assume you mean Consort here. I think the first criteria is that we get along, and work well together. If we can't get along, then everything else will be harder. I feel it best that we are of like mind. We don't have to agree on everything, but at least understand each other.
The second criteria is that she is knowledgeable of the SCA and how things are done. Best case scenario is that she was Queen once before. I think it'd be easier if one of us has done it before so we both are not stumbling around. But I plan on having good advisers so it shouldn't be a problem. I just think it might make it easier.
Lastly I'd want her to have a strong personality. So that she'd enjoy herself, and be able to be a good queen without doubting herself, or letting criticism bother her. She'd have to be kind, and able to deal with various types of people, including myself. :)
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Question 16
You're a Japanese persona. You've indicated that you'll have a Japanese reign. Or has that yet to be completely determined? Would your consort have to be Japanese also if they aren't already? If you determine you don't want to do Japanese, what would you do instead?
Question 15 and then some...
Spring Crown Tournament is 8 months away.
You've indicated that you're wanting to make a new set of garb a month until Crown. Are there any other goals for 'stuff' that you're considering? Are you wanting a new fighting kit? Different weapons? Upgrade your tent/camp aspect? I don't know what is involved in Regalia or what is available, but is there anything you're wanting to suppliment your stuff with? Do you have ideas for 'gifts' for the populous that could be worked on in these intervening months?
You've indicated that you're wanting to make a new set of garb a month until Crown. Are there any other goals for 'stuff' that you're considering? Are you wanting a new fighting kit? Different weapons? Upgrade your tent/camp aspect? I don't know what is involved in Regalia or what is available, but is there anything you're wanting to suppliment your stuff with? Do you have ideas for 'gifts' for the populous that could be worked on in these intervening months?
Monday, August 27, 2007
Answer #6: Motivation
Holy schnikies!!! did the questions just explode out of you Kirstyn? Sheesh! I have better answer some of these just to keep from drowning. :D
"6) What motivates you to be Crown? What prompted you to say, "Yes, I'm going to fight in Crown."?"
I feel it is time. I've always wanted to be King someday, but unless I actually try it, I'll never be King. I feel that I've grown enough in the SCA that I could attempt fighting in Crown. And if I do win, that I would hopefully be able to handle myself and not make a mess of things. This is primarily why I haven't fought in Crown before. I've wanted to, many times. But I believe that you shouldn't fight in Crown, unless you are prepared to be the Crown. I know there are people who fight in it, just for the fight, and have little desire of being King or Queen. But anything can happen in a tournament, especially Crown. So, I'd feel better fighting in it, if I truly felt I could do it. But what motivates me, as in my inspiration, it is my friends. I'm not sure I could accomplish this without my friends' support.
"6) What motivates you to be Crown? What prompted you to say, "Yes, I'm going to fight in Crown."?"
I feel it is time. I've always wanted to be King someday, but unless I actually try it, I'll never be King. I feel that I've grown enough in the SCA that I could attempt fighting in Crown. And if I do win, that I would hopefully be able to handle myself and not make a mess of things. This is primarily why I haven't fought in Crown before. I've wanted to, many times. But I believe that you shouldn't fight in Crown, unless you are prepared to be the Crown. I know there are people who fight in it, just for the fight, and have little desire of being King or Queen. But anything can happen in a tournament, especially Crown. So, I'd feel better fighting in it, if I truly felt I could do it. But what motivates me, as in my inspiration, it is my friends. I'm not sure I could accomplish this without my friends' support.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Question 14
Okay, so I was talking to K.C. and another question comes up. From what I gather from him, the new Prince/Princess appoint royal advisors from each of the Peerages. (Whether this is a standard or not, I'm not sure, but he said he watched it happen at one point.) He indicated that these advisors tend to be Royal Peers to make things easier, since they've already been in your shoes. He also indicated that you don't necessarily have to "know" them, but they should know ahead of time whether or not you wish to appoint them to this post and they should support your bid for Crown prior to your fighting in the tournament. From this point, they can advise you on the best method of operation. So my question is thus:
14) Who would you appoint from each of the Orders to be your three advisors?
14) Who would you appoint from each of the Orders to be your three advisors?
Question 12 & 13
I'm on a few lists and one of them prompted the following questions in my head:
12) On the subject of preprints and awards, would you prefer to set someone else to design them or would you be more prone to designing them yourself?
I realize from what I read today that preprints for a reign appear to be done at least a month before an actual reign starts (which makes sense considering the fact that they want to give out awards during the beginning of their reign, but I'd simply never really considered it). Basically, as the reigns stand now, you have three months to either design or have someone else design 5(?) preprint awards (plus, I'm sure, quite a few other things to do or decide).
13) Would your awards be in a Japanese style and, if so, did the Japanese give out awards like they did in the West? If not, what century/culture would you choose?
12) On the subject of preprints and awards, would you prefer to set someone else to design them or would you be more prone to designing them yourself?
I realize from what I read today that preprints for a reign appear to be done at least a month before an actual reign starts (which makes sense considering the fact that they want to give out awards during the beginning of their reign, but I'd simply never really considered it). Basically, as the reigns stand now, you have three months to either design or have someone else design 5(?) preprint awards (plus, I'm sure, quite a few other things to do or decide).
13) Would your awards be in a Japanese style and, if so, did the Japanese give out awards like they did in the West? If not, what century/culture would you choose?
Friday, August 24, 2007
Question 11
Which is more important to you and why...
...to rule with your significant other (ie, the person you love)?
...or to rule with someone you know will make a good ruler?
...to rule with your significant other (ie, the person you love)?
...or to rule with someone you know will make a good ruler?
Question 10
What do you think/feel would be your first order of business as a newly Crowned King? or a newly Crowned Prince?
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Question 9 Plus
More out of curiosity than anything, is there a certain etiquette to inner Kingdom relations where largesse is concerned? What is generally considered "good" largesse? What is usually a good goal toward making sure you have enough largesse? Are you supposed to give something to whatever other Crown you meet or is it a War thing? (ie, you're at their War, give them something or they are at your War, give them something!)
Weight/Fitness Goal
I feel this is a famous idea. If you need help, let me know and I'll do what I can to make this easier. Keep up the good work. You've done a great job so far!
Question 8
What do you see as the role of retinue? What do you see is a reasonable retinue number? Who would you include in retinue? (This is a general question, not "who" specifically. ie, someone to do this, or someone to do that, etc.)
Question 3.1
Kato wrote: The Crown is the one though, that many look towards as the example of our Kingdom.
What do you consider being a good example? What would you do to show a good example as Crown? What do you consider a bad example?
What do you consider being a good example? What would you do to show a good example as Crown? What do you consider a bad example?
Answers #4 & 5: Famous
"4) Would either of you equate "Crown" with the same rock-star attention you get with being, for lack of a better word, famous? (Even if only on a minor level)
5a) If 'yes', have you ever been in the position to handle "famous"?
5b) If 'no', what would you compare it to?"
Although it could be considered famous, I think it's be better described as "being under the microscope," since everything you do will be scrutinized. I think this especially true since I'll be Japanese. I know I make a point about it, but I think there will be issues, and I should expect them.
No, I have never really been in a position to handle "famous". Because of such, not sure how I would react to, or handle it. I'd like to think I'd be ok with it, but it's hard to imagine a position that you've never been in.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Wynn Answers: 1.2 Expense
1.2) Wynn posted this in answer to Q1.0:
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k.
How would you break these numbers down? Wouldn't some of that cost already be absorbed in the fact that we generally go to events anyway? Take for granted that I realize as Crown more events get added to the roster causing other expense, but I think a rough estimate of other possible costs might be helpful.
Honestly, I didn't ask these types of questions of the people who I spoke to about this. Hard to feel comfortable being too specific without appearing nosy. The numbers have been things like "Here's how much we went in debt during our reign" or "This is how much I recommend that you have in the bank earmarked for the reign before you start." I think every reign has its own bugaboos, too--for example: maybe your car breaks down and you have to fix it so that it can drive long distances.
Though I'm not so good at that whole "breaking it down" into hard numbers thing, I can list various and sundries for you:
Largesse--even though you ask for it, you end up buying some gifty things, too (e.g., special gifts for another Kingdom's Crown that you visit or who visit you)
Travel--the travel fund only covers so much
Wars--you take a whole lot more than you would as a member of the populace and probably go to more than you might otherwise (this includes some that may happen while you are Prince and Princess)
Clothes--looking good costs, and while people make stuff for you, it isn't always free--nor do I feel that's a realistic expectation for you to have
Scrolls--giving out cool stuff costs (there's a budget for this, and scribes will donate a lot, but I wouldn't want to be that kind of Crown)
Special things--pilgrim's badges as payment for the muster at war; dubi to give out with fealty; favors for those who fight in your Crown tourney; anything special you give with King's favors, Court Baronies, QEDs, etc.
And regular events don't cost the same. It used to be just you, now you and your thrones and your hats and, and, and... And, as you say, you go to more than you would normally, and you may have retinue with you that you my or may not be/feel responsible for in some way. You can't necessarily go to events in the same way, either--Crown can't swan in at 11 (well, not if they want to look good, and most likely even the ones who do have been working prior to showing up) and there are expectations of going to feast at every event and of at least making an appearance at post revels. I think you may end up day-tripping a lot fewer events--which can mean hotel costs plus eating away from home for longer.
There's a start on some of the things that will cost.
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k.
How would you break these numbers down? Wouldn't some of that cost already be absorbed in the fact that we generally go to events anyway? Take for granted that I realize as Crown more events get added to the roster causing other expense, but I think a rough estimate of other possible costs might be helpful.
Honestly, I didn't ask these types of questions of the people who I spoke to about this. Hard to feel comfortable being too specific without appearing nosy. The numbers have been things like "Here's how much we went in debt during our reign" or "This is how much I recommend that you have in the bank earmarked for the reign before you start." I think every reign has its own bugaboos, too--for example: maybe your car breaks down and you have to fix it so that it can drive long distances.
Though I'm not so good at that whole "breaking it down" into hard numbers thing, I can list various and sundries for you:
Largesse--even though you ask for it, you end up buying some gifty things, too (e.g., special gifts for another Kingdom's Crown that you visit or who visit you)
Travel--the travel fund only covers so much
Wars--you take a whole lot more than you would as a member of the populace and probably go to more than you might otherwise (this includes some that may happen while you are Prince and Princess)
Clothes--looking good costs, and while people make stuff for you, it isn't always free--nor do I feel that's a realistic expectation for you to have
Scrolls--giving out cool stuff costs (there's a budget for this, and scribes will donate a lot, but I wouldn't want to be that kind of Crown)
Special things--pilgrim's badges as payment for the muster at war; dubi to give out with fealty; favors for those who fight in your Crown tourney; anything special you give with King's favors, Court Baronies, QEDs, etc.
And regular events don't cost the same. It used to be just you, now you and your thrones and your hats and, and, and... And, as you say, you go to more than you would normally, and you may have retinue with you that you my or may not be/feel responsible for in some way. You can't necessarily go to events in the same way, either--Crown can't swan in at 11 (well, not if they want to look good, and most likely even the ones who do have been working prior to showing up) and there are expectations of going to feast at every event and of at least making an appearance at post revels. I think you may end up day-tripping a lot fewer events--which can mean hotel costs plus eating away from home for longer.
There's a start on some of the things that will cost.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Goal: Loosing Weight & Conditioning
One of my goals is to get into better physical shape. Over the years, I have put on the weight, and frankly, I'm getting sick of it. I put on around 75 pounds over my marriage, and I'd like to at least loose most, if not all of it. I officially started tracking my progress on August 1st, 2007. At which time, I weighed in at 275 lbs. Probably the heaviest I've been.
Most of that weight is from eating too often, and too big of portions. So I'm going to start slow, as dieting is not my strong suit. I just love food too much. But I'm going to eat smarter, and get smaller portions to begin with. Hopefully to shrink my stomach and get my body used to healthier portions. I'm going to see how that goes for awhile before I start any serious dieting. This morning I stepped on the scale, and unless the scale is broken, I am down to 264 lbs.
I'm going to start swimming next month. I used to be a swimmer in high school and college. To me, nothing else provides a better workout. I'm used to it, and I enjoy it, and that is half the battle. I will work in some weights and other conditioning as well, but I don't have a set plan for that as of yet.
I'm sure this isn't exciting for many people, so I apologize. But I want to post my results so at least I have a record of what I'm doing, and where I still need to go. I think if I stick to it, I can do it. But sticking to it will be the challenge. If loosing weight was easy, we'd have a nation of skinnier people.
Most of that weight is from eating too often, and too big of portions. So I'm going to start slow, as dieting is not my strong suit. I just love food too much. But I'm going to eat smarter, and get smaller portions to begin with. Hopefully to shrink my stomach and get my body used to healthier portions. I'm going to see how that goes for awhile before I start any serious dieting. This morning I stepped on the scale, and unless the scale is broken, I am down to 264 lbs.
I'm going to start swimming next month. I used to be a swimmer in high school and college. To me, nothing else provides a better workout. I'm used to it, and I enjoy it, and that is half the battle. I will work in some weights and other conditioning as well, but I don't have a set plan for that as of yet.
I'm sure this isn't exciting for many people, so I apologize. But I want to post my results so at least I have a record of what I'm doing, and where I still need to go. I think if I stick to it, I can do it. But sticking to it will be the challenge. If loosing weight was easy, we'd have a nation of skinnier people.
Answer #3: Job & Goal of Crown
"3) What do you see is the job of being Crown? What do you see as the goal of being Crown?"
Trying to catch up with the questions poised, and I'm having a hard time trying to put down in words my answer to this one. The "job" as you put it, I guess is to be the personification of a Kingdom, and the SCA. The Crown is the one that many look to as the leader of a Kingdom, but also as the "cheerleader" for lack of a better term. Their actions do hold significance on people, and their individual pursuit for "the Dream". So, being a good example, and promoting "the Dream" is a primary "job" or goal for a Crown.
Leadership is one quality that I think many would assume. I'm not sure that is the case entirely. A keen leadership can't hurt, but I don't think it's necessary in our game. The Crown is the one though, that many look towards as the example of our Kingdom. Our Kingdom pride so to speak.
The main job or goal of Crown, I believe, is to be fair, do everything they can to inspire the populace to do their best and enjoy our game, and to forever challenge everyone to create their own special "Medieval Moment."
Not sure if I answered the question you were asking or not. Let me know if this is not what you were meaning.
Trying to catch up with the questions poised, and I'm having a hard time trying to put down in words my answer to this one. The "job" as you put it, I guess is to be the personification of a Kingdom, and the SCA. The Crown is the one that many look to as the leader of a Kingdom, but also as the "cheerleader" for lack of a better term. Their actions do hold significance on people, and their individual pursuit for "the Dream". So, being a good example, and promoting "the Dream" is a primary "job" or goal for a Crown.
Leadership is one quality that I think many would assume. I'm not sure that is the case entirely. A keen leadership can't hurt, but I don't think it's necessary in our game. The Crown is the one though, that many look towards as the example of our Kingdom. Our Kingdom pride so to speak.
The main job or goal of Crown, I believe, is to be fair, do everything they can to inspire the populace to do their best and enjoy our game, and to forever challenge everyone to create their own special "Medieval Moment."
Not sure if I answered the question you were asking or not. Let me know if this is not what you were meaning.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Question 7
This will likely bleed through to other questions and opinions, but I figured I'd ask it anyway.
7) What do you see as necessary criteria for your Crown "significant other"? Optional? Best case scenario?
7) What do you see as necessary criteria for your Crown "significant other"? Optional? Best case scenario?
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Question 1.2
Wynn posted this in answer to Q1.0:
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k.
How would you break these numbers down? Wouldn't some of that cost already be absorbed in the fact that we generally go to events anyway? Take for granted that I realize as Crown more events get added to the roster causing other expense, but I think a rough estimate of other possible costs might be helpful.
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k.
How would you break these numbers down? Wouldn't some of that cost already be absorbed in the fact that we generally go to events anyway? Take for granted that I realize as Crown more events get added to the roster causing other expense, but I think a rough estimate of other possible costs might be helpful.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Answer #2: Obstacles
"2) What obstacles do you see that you have to overcome to get to the point of being comfortable with winning Crown? Physical? Mental? Emotional?"
I'd be a fool if I didn't think there would be some obstacles. Here is what I think are the main ones...
Physical: I think the obvious one is that I'd like to be in better shape, including loosing weight and conditioning myself. It's not that I have to be in better shape to win the tournament, but I feel it's important that I get in better shape in general. And being in better shape can only help improve my fighting. I put on 75 lbs during my marriage. I'd like to loose most of that by Crown, if not all. If anything, I'd like to improve my stamina and general health.
Mental: If you know me, you know that I'm pretty shy around people I don't know at first. I don't like talking in public much, but I do it if I need to. So mentally, I think the biggest one is being able to talk to people without being too shy and introverted. Once I get to know you, or I'm comfortable in my surroundings, I can talk with the best of them. It's getting to that point that I need to work on. Being King will require me to be social, and talk to strangers.
The other mental aspect is my being over-critical of myself. If I am to be King, I can't be self-doubting and wondering if I made the right decision. I tend to blame myself for things that are beyond my control. And I want everyone to enjoy themselves. I need to convince myself that I will not be able to please everyone all the time. And people will be upset with me, and criticize me. I just need to be ready and prepared for it.
Emotional: The emotional hurdle involves me being Japanese and upsetting "the tribe". If I were to win this, I could be the first Calontir King to be Japanese. I'm not entirely sure how that will go over with the populace. I would not say that Calontir is anti-asian, but it definitely has it's strong roots in European culture, and is quite proud of it. I fully understand that, and do not wish to rock the boat. But if I do win, I have to expect some fallout. I think I have the patience, I just have to understand that I may upset some people, just by being Japanese, not who I am, or my love for Calontir.
I'd be a fool if I didn't think there would be some obstacles. Here is what I think are the main ones...
Physical: I think the obvious one is that I'd like to be in better shape, including loosing weight and conditioning myself. It's not that I have to be in better shape to win the tournament, but I feel it's important that I get in better shape in general. And being in better shape can only help improve my fighting. I put on 75 lbs during my marriage. I'd like to loose most of that by Crown, if not all. If anything, I'd like to improve my stamina and general health.
Mental: If you know me, you know that I'm pretty shy around people I don't know at first. I don't like talking in public much, but I do it if I need to. So mentally, I think the biggest one is being able to talk to people without being too shy and introverted. Once I get to know you, or I'm comfortable in my surroundings, I can talk with the best of them. It's getting to that point that I need to work on. Being King will require me to be social, and talk to strangers.
The other mental aspect is my being over-critical of myself. If I am to be King, I can't be self-doubting and wondering if I made the right decision. I tend to blame myself for things that are beyond my control. And I want everyone to enjoy themselves. I need to convince myself that I will not be able to please everyone all the time. And people will be upset with me, and criticize me. I just need to be ready and prepared for it.
Emotional: The emotional hurdle involves me being Japanese and upsetting "the tribe". If I were to win this, I could be the first Calontir King to be Japanese. I'm not entirely sure how that will go over with the populace. I would not say that Calontir is anti-asian, but it definitely has it's strong roots in European culture, and is quite proud of it. I fully understand that, and do not wish to rock the boat. But if I do win, I have to expect some fallout. I think I have the patience, I just have to understand that I may upset some people, just by being Japanese, not who I am, or my love for Calontir.
Answer 1.1: Current Expenses
"1.1) In an effort to help you determine your costs, what do you normally spend on a weekend for an event? Average."
That really varies on a lot of factors. Depends on if I'm riding by myself or not. Whether people chip in on gas. Where the event is. Will Con be traveling with me. Site/Feast/Camping fees. Whether I bring food, eat out, or eat feast. Will there be merchanting (ie. Kris Kinder) that I'm interested in. And whether I have to make anything specifically for the event (garb, armor, camping, etc.)
Wars are an exception though. They definitely cost more than regular events, but they also don't happen every weekend, and you can plan for them. If I won Crown, the only war during my reign will be Estrella.
Gas is the biggest expense by far. For an average event, not including gas, I can do it under $50, easy. Even with Con. If I just do the basics, which I can and have done, I can do an event for just the site fee. But that usually means day tripping it, bringing my own food or eating at home. With gas nowadays, I can probably expect double that unless I'm riding with someone who is willing to go in on gas.
So really, your question is hard to answer. There are a lot of variables.
That really varies on a lot of factors. Depends on if I'm riding by myself or not. Whether people chip in on gas. Where the event is. Will Con be traveling with me. Site/Feast/Camping fees. Whether I bring food, eat out, or eat feast. Will there be merchanting (ie. Kris Kinder) that I'm interested in. And whether I have to make anything specifically for the event (garb, armor, camping, etc.)
Wars are an exception though. They definitely cost more than regular events, but they also don't happen every weekend, and you can plan for them. If I won Crown, the only war during my reign will be Estrella.
Gas is the biggest expense by far. For an average event, not including gas, I can do it under $50, easy. Even with Con. If I just do the basics, which I can and have done, I can do an event for just the site fee. But that usually means day tripping it, bringing my own food or eating at home. With gas nowadays, I can probably expect double that unless I'm riding with someone who is willing to go in on gas.
So really, your question is hard to answer. There are a lot of variables.
Answer Q4: Responding to Wynn
4) Would either of you equate "Crown" with the same rock-star attention you get with being, for lack of a better word, famous? (Even if only on a minor level)
Khaentlahn, I think you have the most experience with what it means to be "famous,"
To a certain degree, tho I was never "famous" in my own right.
It can be a challenge. From my perspective, it tends to feel like somebody wants something from you almost all the time. It's part of the territory whether you want it or not. The more that individual people "like" you as a person, the more prevalent the situation becomes. In public, you're rarely able to simply 'be', because someone invariably knows who you are and appears to think they have the right to capitalize on that knowledge in some manner.
I honestly don't wish to portray this as a horrible situation, because a lot of good can come of being "famous". You're the one in the public eye, therefore, many people look up to you, whether you feel you deserve it or not. It becomes a type of responsibility to show others the best example possible and hopefully derive good results from it. Who knows, but that the newbie you run into at that little event a month after you've become Crown might be the gentle 5 years from now that shows an amazing aptitude in some aspect of the SCA, but that they attribute their continued pleasure in the SCA to the attention you were kind enough to bestow on them all those years ago?
Khaentlahn, I think you have the most experience with what it means to be "famous,"
To a certain degree, tho I was never "famous" in my own right.
It can be a challenge. From my perspective, it tends to feel like somebody wants something from you almost all the time. It's part of the territory whether you want it or not. The more that individual people "like" you as a person, the more prevalent the situation becomes. In public, you're rarely able to simply 'be', because someone invariably knows who you are and appears to think they have the right to capitalize on that knowledge in some manner.
I honestly don't wish to portray this as a horrible situation, because a lot of good can come of being "famous". You're the one in the public eye, therefore, many people look up to you, whether you feel you deserve it or not. It becomes a type of responsibility to show others the best example possible and hopefully derive good results from it. Who knows, but that the newbie you run into at that little event a month after you've become Crown might be the gentle 5 years from now that shows an amazing aptitude in some aspect of the SCA, but that they attribute their continued pleasure in the SCA to the attention you were kind enough to bestow on them all those years ago?
Question 6
Yes, I realize there are a lot of these at the beginning, but that's what happens at the beginning in my head. Ask all the questions, be certain of the answers, then proceed to the next step. Therefore...
6) What motivates you to be Crown? What prompted you to say, "Yes, I'm going to fight in Crown."?
6) What motivates you to be Crown? What prompted you to say, "Yes, I'm going to fight in Crown."?
Wynn Answers: 1. Expense, 4-5. "Famous"
1) How expensive do you think being Crown will be?
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k. Of course, there are ways to make things more and less expensive. I'm pretty sure the higher cost reigns included a lot of out of kingdom travel (read airline tickets) and expensive clothes, gifts, etc.
[Question 2 seems very personal to Kato. And I don't have time for 3 right now—but I'll get back to it.]
4) Would either of you equate "Crown" with the same rock-star attention you get with being, for lack of a better word, famous? (Even if only on a minor level)
Khaentlahn, I think you have the most experience with what it means to be "famous," but a shot in the dark is that yes, Crown does come with a minor level of this within the SCA. It definitely puts you on a new level of renoun, with a much larger number people who you have never met knowing your name, and talking about you, judging your decisions, etc. There's a level of demand and responsibility that is quite different from a member of the general populace. To explain a bit more, as Crown, there are a huge number of people who have expectations of you, and who will want to talk to you, ask you questions, or just be close to you.
5a) If 'yes', have you ever been in the position to handle "famous"?
There's an amount of this that comes with becoming a capital P Peer—for sure at the time of your elevation. The number of people who know your name that you've never met is much higher. People who you don't know now feel a certain ownership of you and that they now have a reason and a right to stand back and judge the things that you do. This happened for me to a much lesser extent when I became a Lily, so I can only imagine that Kato would be experiencing it with his recent elevation to Hus.
The numbers that I have heard are more in the $5-7k range. With a couple of reigns that I know of being more like $10k. Of course, there are ways to make things more and less expensive. I'm pretty sure the higher cost reigns included a lot of out of kingdom travel (read airline tickets) and expensive clothes, gifts, etc.
[Question 2 seems very personal to Kato. And I don't have time for 3 right now—but I'll get back to it.]
4) Would either of you equate "Crown" with the same rock-star attention you get with being, for lack of a better word, famous? (Even if only on a minor level)
Khaentlahn, I think you have the most experience with what it means to be "famous," but a shot in the dark is that yes, Crown does come with a minor level of this within the SCA. It definitely puts you on a new level of renoun, with a much larger number people who you have never met knowing your name, and talking about you, judging your decisions, etc. There's a level of demand and responsibility that is quite different from a member of the general populace. To explain a bit more, as Crown, there are a huge number of people who have expectations of you, and who will want to talk to you, ask you questions, or just be close to you.
5a) If 'yes', have you ever been in the position to handle "famous"?
There's an amount of this that comes with becoming a capital P Peer—for sure at the time of your elevation. The number of people who know your name that you've never met is much higher. People who you don't know now feel a certain ownership of you and that they now have a reason and a right to stand back and judge the things that you do. This happened for me to a much lesser extent when I became a Lily, so I can only imagine that Kato would be experiencing it with his recent elevation to Hus.
Question 1.1
1.1) In an effort to help you determine your costs, what do you normally spend on a weekend for an event? Average.
Answer #1: Expenses
"1) How expensive do you think being Crown will be?"
I really don't know how much it will cost. I am going to assume around $1,000. This is one thing that you don't hear much about, at least I haven't. Vaska went to a class once about preparing to be Royalty and they mentioned it to be around $1,000, but obviously your mileage may vary. It depends on what you do. Traveling every weekend will be expensive.
Gifts, vehicle maintenance, garb, travel expenses, food, site fees, etc. are just some of the expenses I will have to consider. I know there is a travel fund for Royalty, but that only goes so far, and I don't want to tax that if I don't have to. I am going to try to save money each month, so I can hopefully rely on that instead.
I really don't know how much it will cost. I am going to assume around $1,000. This is one thing that you don't hear much about, at least I haven't. Vaska went to a class once about preparing to be Royalty and they mentioned it to be around $1,000, but obviously your mileage may vary. It depends on what you do. Traveling every weekend will be expensive.
Gifts, vehicle maintenance, garb, travel expenses, food, site fees, etc. are just some of the expenses I will have to consider. I know there is a travel fund for Royalty, but that only goes so far, and I don't want to tax that if I don't have to. I am going to try to save money each month, so I can hopefully rely on that instead.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Questions 4 & 5
4) Would either of you equate "Crown" with the same rock-star attention you get with being, for lack of a better word, famous? (Even if only on a minor level)
5a) If 'yes', have you ever been in the position to handle "famous"?
5b) If 'no', what would you compare it to?
5a) If 'yes', have you ever been in the position to handle "famous"?
5b) If 'no', what would you compare it to?
Garb
Btw, I think this a great idea. I'm not the most proficient at making clothing or otherwise, but I can help with other things. Needing cording or someone to make the stamps for your mon? :D
Friday, August 3, 2007
Goal: Garb
I don't have enough garb for a reign. So one of my goals is to make new clothes. With the Crown appearing almost each weekend at an event, you're going to need to have something new to wear. So, my idea, so as not to tax me too much in time and money, is to every month go and get enough fabric to make one outfit. I think I can turn out one outfit each month. Hopefully, if I stay on schedule, I would have around 10 new outfits by the tournament. This will also help me hone my sewing and garb making skills, and maybe I'll learn something new.
My Role
I see myself as an encourager, providing all around support and positive input (note that I'm carefully avoiding the word "cheerleader"). :o) I also expect to offer a different philosophical point of view at times.
We were talking last night about little boys wanting to be King. Modern small-s society talks so much about little girls who want to be princesses, I think we often miss this boyhood wish that I see as very evident when I look around the SCA. Pretty much every guy I've ever talked to about it has expressed a want to be the King. There's a mystique (in addition to the somewhat macho thrill of showing everyone that you're the best because you won the tournament) that surrounds wearing a crown.
From there, I think one of the things that is most important for people who enter the tournament to realize is that so much more goes into being Crown in our cap-S Society than the magical, Hollywood-aggrandized version. It's real work and a whole lot of responsibility, as Khaentlahn's questions show. (Real life kings didn't have all sunshine and roses, either.)
That said, I also think some of the best and most moving moments I've witnessed have centered around the pure little boy joy on the faces of big strong men who get to be King...
We were talking last night about little boys wanting to be King. Modern small-s society talks so much about little girls who want to be princesses, I think we often miss this boyhood wish that I see as very evident when I look around the SCA. Pretty much every guy I've ever talked to about it has expressed a want to be the King. There's a mystique (in addition to the somewhat macho thrill of showing everyone that you're the best because you won the tournament) that surrounds wearing a crown.
From there, I think one of the things that is most important for people who enter the tournament to realize is that so much more goes into being Crown in our cap-S Society than the magical, Hollywood-aggrandized version. It's real work and a whole lot of responsibility, as Khaentlahn's questions show. (Real life kings didn't have all sunshine and roses, either.)
That said, I also think some of the best and most moving moments I've witnessed have centered around the pure little boy joy on the faces of big strong men who get to be King...
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Electing Part of my Own Job: Questions 1-3
I'd like to put my two cents into this, but only to say that I'd like part of my job to be posing possible questions that will hopefully get you to thinking. Like...
1) How expensive do you think being Crown will be?
2) What obstacles do you see that you have to overcome to get to the point of being comfortable with winning Crown? Physical? Mental? Emotional?
3) What do you see is the job of being Crown? What do you see as the goal of being Crown?
As I think of more, I'll post them and hopefully this will get you and everyone else thinking about the role of the Crown for any kingdom.
1) How expensive do you think being Crown will be?
2) What obstacles do you see that you have to overcome to get to the point of being comfortable with winning Crown? Physical? Mental? Emotional?
3) What do you see is the job of being Crown? What do you see as the goal of being Crown?
As I think of more, I'll post them and hopefully this will get you and everyone else thinking about the role of the Crown for any kingdom.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Beginning of the journey
Konnichiwa. My name is Yamashiro Kato and I want to be King.
However, it isn't as simple as just wanting it. I have a lot to work to do. Not just the physical part, but everything else that goes along with it. Things that most people never realize. Things that I don't even know about yet. This will all be new to me. I'm going to learn on the way, and you can join me on my journey.
My intent of this blog is to record my progress, my thoughts, my choices, and what I learn along the way. Why? Because I want to, and it is a way for me to have a record of where I've started and to see how far I go. Plus I want to give people a behind-the-scenes look at what it is like to train for Crown Tournament. With any luck, it might prove to be insightful to some people, including myself. If not, then nothing is really lost, except your time reading this.
To be honest, this isn't entirely about winning Crown. It's also about my mental and physical health. I'm using Crown as a goal to get into better shape and hopefully improve my life, both in and out of the SCA. Without going into personal details, I'm want to make a change. I felt this might be a good motivator, and the timing is right I feel.
The other aspect that I want to point out is that this is not a publicity stunt or some sort of "hey, look at me" type of thing. I am not trying to trivialize or make a mockery of the SCA and our traditions. Ever since I started in the SCA, I've wanted to be King. Since that first day, I've been trying to understand what it takes to become King. That's is all this blog is about. I'm going to be learning this as I go. Why not impart this knowledge onto others, if they want it? Please do not read any more into it.
One last thing. If you are reading this, I'd like to hear from you. I have a couple of people who are going to be with me on my journey. I will mention them from time to time. But I could always hear from others. Give me your opinion, or suggestion. Ask me a question. I'll try my best to answer everyone.
Domo arrigato for joining me on my journey. I hope it's fun, enlightening, and at the end of it, productive, even if I don't win at the end. The journey is just as important.
However, it isn't as simple as just wanting it. I have a lot to work to do. Not just the physical part, but everything else that goes along with it. Things that most people never realize. Things that I don't even know about yet. This will all be new to me. I'm going to learn on the way, and you can join me on my journey.
My intent of this blog is to record my progress, my thoughts, my choices, and what I learn along the way. Why? Because I want to, and it is a way for me to have a record of where I've started and to see how far I go. Plus I want to give people a behind-the-scenes look at what it is like to train for Crown Tournament. With any luck, it might prove to be insightful to some people, including myself. If not, then nothing is really lost, except your time reading this.
To be honest, this isn't entirely about winning Crown. It's also about my mental and physical health. I'm using Crown as a goal to get into better shape and hopefully improve my life, both in and out of the SCA. Without going into personal details, I'm want to make a change. I felt this might be a good motivator, and the timing is right I feel.
The other aspect that I want to point out is that this is not a publicity stunt or some sort of "hey, look at me" type of thing. I am not trying to trivialize or make a mockery of the SCA and our traditions. Ever since I started in the SCA, I've wanted to be King. Since that first day, I've been trying to understand what it takes to become King. That's is all this blog is about. I'm going to be learning this as I go. Why not impart this knowledge onto others, if they want it? Please do not read any more into it.
One last thing. If you are reading this, I'd like to hear from you. I have a couple of people who are going to be with me on my journey. I will mention them from time to time. But I could always hear from others. Give me your opinion, or suggestion. Ask me a question. I'll try my best to answer everyone.
Domo arrigato for joining me on my journey. I hope it's fun, enlightening, and at the end of it, productive, even if I don't win at the end. The journey is just as important.
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