Pirate Invasion

Marina and I always look forward to our annual visit to the Renaissance Festival. This weekend was themed “Pirate Invasion,” so Marina decided to wear her pirate princess costume. After so much fun last year, we invited Justine to go with us today. Michelle was also going with some of her friends, so we looked for her while we were there.

When we arrived it wasn’t very crowded, so we got a fairly close parking space and walked to the gate. Marina wanted to have her photo taken with two large king and queen puppets. Justine backed away, but the king puppet followed her and brought her back for the photos. We were all laughing!

When we entered the festival, Justine wanted to shop, so we started browsing some of the stores. She ended up with a leather belt for her sword and a corset. After shopping for a while, walked toward the arena for the first joust. On the way, we found Princess Elizabeth. Marina gave her a photo album of pictures we have taken over the years. She loved it!This year, Sir William was the master of ceremonies, not one of the jousters. We were a bit disappointed. We ended up sitting in Sir Tristan’s section today. We happily cheered him on.

We stopped for a turkey leg for lunch and then went to see the classic Puke and Snot show. Marina was bored in parts, but did enjoy some of the jokes through the show. After the show, we did more shopping until it was time for the next joust.

When we arrived at the arena, we had the opportunity to buy a favor for the knight of our choice. Marina was happy to get one for Sir Tristan. We enjoyed the joust and then waited until after the show to get the favor back. After chatting with Sir Tristan for a few minutes, we waited for a chance to say hello to Sir William. He greeted Marina with a big hug. We gave him pictures we took last year to add to the photo album we gave him last year. He was very pleased.
 
We made our way to the chapel for the daily knightings. Both Marina and I were knighted this year. We got a picture with the king and queen who had heard about the photo album we gave Princess Elizabeth. So we promised them one next year.

We picked up a snack and then went to see the hypnotist show which Justine was hoping to take part in. She was chosen as a participant and fell under deep hypnosis throughout the show. Marina and I laughed so hard throughout the whole thing. Later we showed Justine the recording and she was amazed.

We were only able to catch the very end of Princess Elizabeth’s tea party, but she had a special gift for Marina – her favorite flowers. Marina was thrilled. We bought ice cream and settled on the grass for the final joust of the day. Marina again gave Sir Tristan her favor and he won the joust to the death. He talked with us again after the match and we had another chance to visit with Sir William.

On our way out, we did a little more shopping and Marina rode the pirate ride. We were all very tired, but we’d had a great day!