The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is quite the affair. Tradition demands we; Holly, Jerrod, Bret, Cory, Melanie and I; attended the event in costume- as pirates- Arrrr! I find that going in full regalia definitely adds to the experience; I mean, how can one truly appreciate the fun of a ren-fest without a bit of immersion. Wearing your favorite Nascar t-shirt and baseball cap indicate a desire for isolation- at least I feel that way. I understand that a ren-fest is something truly spectacular, but why go just to gawk when you can join in? And doesn't it make sense to dress properly for your activity of choice? After all, you don't wear a tuxedo to the beach do you? It doesn't even require that much effort to look "peasantly".

Shopping was also quite fun. Mel purchased a wood mug with strap and cap, while I bought several smaller items- a mug cap, walking stick, chainmail bracelet and a new leather wallet. We found a few wonderful pottery studios, one from What Cheer Iowa. Mel and I got a pair of tiny condiment bowls from them. We definitely plan on a visit to their studio in the future.