If you're a festival regular, you've probably seen Judy.

On the rainiest days her smile could light up the whole White Hart Tavern. I'm particularly glad we (and not Colorado) ended up with her. Let her tell you her story:

well, i had been attending the Colorado Renaissance festival, though hardly as a "regular." i had always wanted to go, and when the opportunity presented itself, i attended my first festival when i was 20. it was wonderful. i loved everything about it, and i was sorry i was only there for one day. i wanted to BE a part of it. but at the time, i was just a bit on the shy side (no joking!) and never went in garb. i did the "i-have-shorts-and-a-bodice" bit, once... the "half-garb/half-normal" appearance *grin*. i'm sure i looked like an idiot, but i felt beautiful in it at the time.

about 3 years later, i became interested in the internet, and corresponded with Keith, a guy from Maryland, who shared my interest in Renaissance festivals. but to hear HIM describe it, it sounded like much more exciting to come up with a costume and participate in the fun, rather than watch from the sidelines. so, i bought a pattern, and began work on my first garb-dress. it was quite a task, too. i didn't think 22 pattern pieces sounded like so many, until they were all over my floor.

when he invited me to meet him for the first time irl, i finished my dress, packed up the car and headed for maryland. we met at the festival, and even though i had only one crummy picture of him, i "saw him from across a crowded lane" and knew he was the one for me. especially after he dropped to one knee, kissed my hand, and presented me with a single white rose. (my favorite.) he showed me around the maryland festival, and the people there were wonderful. everyone was so nice to me for the two weekends i was able to attend.

well, that was 1996. i have been attending the faire every season, ever since i relocated to maryland permanently. i guess you could say, if it weren't for the maryland renaissance festival, i'd still be looking for a home.

Check out Judy's Web page, too.