tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71540215394830650122008-09-30T12:40:17.381-06:00Lady AdventuressThe Second Life Journal of the Duchess of Argylle and Countess of Primbroke (yes, it's the same person,also going by Lady Primbroke, Mrs. Pearse and sometimes Miss McAllister), wife to Edward Pearse, the Duke of Argylle, Earl of PrimbrokeChristine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-61593610199093450892008-09-30T12:37:00.002-06:002008-09-30T12:40:17.418-06:00My Steampunk StyleWhat can I say...I think I even own that dress, and most assuredly the hat! ;-)<br /><br /><p><em>Your result for The Steampunk Style Test...</em></p><h4>The Citizen</h4><p>71% Elegant, 41% Technological, 80% Historical, 12% Adventurous and 6% Playful!</p><p style="text-align:center"><img src="http://cdn.okcimg.com/php/load_okc_image.php/images/0x0/0x0/0/14953126226063475061.jpeg" width="556" height="663" /></p><br /> <div><p>You are the Citizen, the embodiment of steampunk’s everyday side. You realize that there is far more to a rich, living environment than adventurers and lunatic engineers. For every gentleman-scientist or airship fleet admiral there are a dozen or more “ordinary people” who prevent the genre from devolving into a mass of cardboard caricatures, and you take pride in exploring the great diversity of a steampunk world’s population. Your clothing could easily come from any social group or society, and you are equally liable to dress upper, middle, or working class. However, the unifying feature to your fashion sense is that it does not get carried away with “looking steampunk,” instead creating a person who could have just stepped out of the crowd in a novel. Some people may claim that your style is too close to historical accuracy to be steampunk, but fortunately you know better. </p><br /><p> </p><br /><p>Try our other Steampunk test <a href="http://gdfalksen.livejournal.com/1340.html">here</a>.</p></div><p><a href="http://www.helloquizzy.com/tests/the-steampunk-style-test">Take The Steampunk Style Test</a> at <a href="http://www.helloquizzy.com/"><b style="color:#131313"><span style="color:#ac000c">H</span>ello<span style="color:#ac000c">Q</span>uizzy</b></a></p>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-88982512553793540632008-08-15T13:25:00.002-06:002008-08-15T13:33:42.896-06:00When it Rains it Truly Pours in SteelheadI have not yet solved why my chickens keep disappearing, although I will say that they are not vanishing at the alarming rate they once were. I have my suspicions that a certian owl owned by Miss Mara Razor might be at fault, but as I've not had time to investigate properly, I don' tknow for sure. Her owl seems to be rather fat and sassy these days. As well, this is just not serious enough to be bothering the Sheriff with these days, since trouble has surfaced in a Steelhead. I'll just keep them locked up and under wraps until I can take care of it myself.<br /><br />As for the trouble in Steelhead, well it would seem someone or something has it out for our dear Sheriff. Silver tipped bullets were fired at his house, including some into the chest of the scarecrow my dear Edward made for the Scarecrow competition at last year's Harvest Festival. Sheriff Ortega's cousin has been wandering about, muttering all sorts of strange and bewildering things under his breath, Tensai has been circulating, exceedingly well armed...even for her. Lunar is developing a worry line where that mark is on his forehead and basically the entire town is very, very tense. We've had to turn in all of our silver as a preventative measure.<br /><br />To his credit, the Sheriff is remaining calm about this....however, I suspect he is far more worried than he is allowing himself to show. I hope whomever is responsible is captured quickly...Steelhead is a lovely town, warm and welcoming. The murder of poultry is one thing...attacking our Sheriff is quite another. All I can say is that I hope whomever is behind this is caught before Tensai gets ahold of him or her.Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-9090508783593439672008-07-24T15:27:00.003-06:002008-07-24T15:33:48.684-06:00Another Fowl Mystery Afoot<span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>T</strong></span><span style="font-size:100%;">oday as I was out in the back garden of Rosehaven, feeding my chickens I noticed something that has made me very upset. One, possibly more of my chickens have gone missing! Now while these chickens are nothing like the Steelhead breed, having been imported from Caledon, they are still very dear to me none the less. Because of them, I have a steady supply of eggs for my baking, as well as eating and of course, once the older ones quit producing, I will have chicken for the stewpot as well (and we all know how comforting chicken stew is on a cold winter's night). They are also very friendly birds and would not harm anyone, unlike the Steelhead variety which was known to tackle and defeat elephants.</span><br /><br />I did not notice any tracks around the chicken coop nor any in the yard itself. While Sheriff Ortega's club *is* next door, and he has been known to "wolf out" on occasion, I cannot for the life of me picture him stealing a few chickens. He has slightly better morals than that. I have a very solid fence around my property as well, and my dear hens like to stay in the shelter of the backyard and have never been known to stray anyhow.<br /><br /> Having lived through the turkey murders, I am very alarmed at the disappearance of my birds and hope to find a solution soon. Perhaps a stroll through the neighbourhood will give me some clues....Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-38128710342130043302008-07-17T11:31:00.002-06:002008-07-17T11:50:43.409-06:00Allow me for a moment to go OOCAs many of you are probably aware, Christine was unable to attend the anniversary party for her and Edward on the 15th. Below are some photos to show you what was going on here in RL that made it impossible for me to be in world.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B2bTAlCI/AAAAAAAAAk4/IjdVizBenwg/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_007.jpg" /><br />A few trees at my parent's farm<br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B35WmKjI/AAAAAAAAAlI/exSA5PwUILw/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_010.jpg" /><br />Someone's t.v. tower<br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B4NrkJQI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/nrgUIv5zqQg/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_011.jpg" /><br />I don't think those trees were planted quite like that...<br /><br /><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B4Qz999I/AAAAAAAAAlY/F-0Ux7mCRaI/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_012.jpg" /><br />A pivot irrigation sprinkler...not quite looking like it should.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B4mPa3bI/AAAAAAAAAlg/FtVyt1v2y8g/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_015.jpg" /><br />One of several downed power lines.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B5qW15OI/AAAAAAAAAlw/IJR4GIHJRgs/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_022.jpg" /><br />The cenotaph in Burdett, which is 11kms from where I live. They had a tornado touch down there. <br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B7wqw40I/AAAAAAAAAmY/DfR151srWzI/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_035.jpg" /><br />More of the cenotaph, different angle.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B8y3W7OI/AAAAAAAAAmg/M-ovxDxojaI/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_038.jpg" /><br />A house in Burdett...I think<br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B9IoTFOI/AAAAAAAAAmo/73oy7COyp2A/s400/Storm_of_2008_-_July_15_045.jpg" /><br />Marks from the storm.<br /><br />Now these next pics are taken of a house that I sold to a family this past spring. It was a lovely farm home, with brick on the outside and well protected by trees. The family was in the home when the storm struck, but are ok.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-B-rbrEZI/AAAAAAAAAmw/vbdUKObKJJA/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20063.jpg" /><br />The front of the home. There was a porch area with a brick planter and climbing vines on the front at one time. <br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CAPls3LI/AAAAAAAAAm4/t1CTELLG4Kg/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20064.jpg" /><br />The garage area.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CCf0z0uI/AAAAAAAAAnE/QfI1KZ6V_XM/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20065.jpg" /><br />An uprooted tree in the yard. <br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CECHFMJI/AAAAAAAAAnM/fiVVvJ7qiV4/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20066.jpg" /><br />The garage sidewall...or what's left of it.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CFzg25MI/AAAAAAAAAnU/zahkQ1Go2yw/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20069.jpg" /><br />The backyard. Pieces of the roof everywhere.<br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CHHwE-8I/AAAAAAAAAnc/0OEQxrm5a00/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20070.jpg" /><br />More of the backyard, notice the big building in the background. It would seem someone just peeled back part of the roof (it's not a very good pic, I know)<br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/cvanderloh/SH-CIkrJLtI/AAAAAAAAAnk/T1mCJj7ejXU/s400/Cole%27s%20grad%2C%20summer%2C%20storm%20pics%202008%20071.jpg" /><br />The front of the house again.<br /><br /><br />Needless to say, I feel very VERY lucky that the worst damage my own home suffered was some holes in my front screen door and my flowers being decimated. None of our windows were broken, our roof is intact and for the most part, our trees are fine. Everyone is pitching in and working together to get things cleared up. <br /><br />So, I'm sorry Christine missed the party, but I think it's a good excuse to have another one, just because. :-)Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-41166718483730292152008-07-13T13:42:00.005-06:002008-07-13T18:12:31.825-06:00You are Cordially Invited to Attend...<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SHpaxWtvC1I/AAAAAAAAAkU/MC0jkZc4unM/s1600-h/EdwardChristineAnniversary.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222586521847008082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SHpaxWtvC1I/AAAAAAAAAkU/MC0jkZc4unM/s320/EdwardChristineAnniversary.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>I</strong></span><span style="font-size:100%;">n celebration of the Inauguration of the Duchy of Argylle and the Duke and Duchess of Argylle's first anniversary, you are invited to attend a reception at Caledon Argylle, Tuesday, July 15 at 7 pm SLT. It would be appreciated if attendees wore clothing that was suitable for such an event.</span><br /><p><span style="font-size:100%;">We look forward to having you celebrate with us. Your presence is gift enough.</p><br /><br /></span>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-67949860395219041992008-07-01T09:11:00.004-06:002008-07-01T09:19:41.858-06:00Happy Dominon Day Canada!<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SGpJMME46YI/AAAAAAAAAkM/LJvmZOUffb0/s1600-h/1892+Red+Ensign.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218063592011131266" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SGpJMME46YI/AAAAAAAAAkM/LJvmZOUffb0/s320/1892+Red+Ensign.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div> </div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:180%;">W</span><span style="font-size:100%;">armest wishes to all of our Canadian friends as they celebrate July 1st from the Duke and Duchess of Argylle. We hope your day is filled with fun, family, friends, fireworks, lots of ice cream and no mosquitos! </span></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>If you're looking for a picnic after sailing, I do know of a lovely spot right by the shoreline at Argylle. Please enjoy!</div><div> </div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-14446091623488998972008-06-21T10:45:00.002-06:002008-06-21T10:54:59.697-06:00Tagged! Drat!*sighs deeply and glares over at her beloved* My dearest Edward decided to tag me in this "Name your memoirs" thing. I don't think he realizes how much I dislike being tagged and that my creativity does not extend to this sort of brain game. However, rest assured, he will be hearing about it for quite some time in the future. ;-)<br /><br />So...what to call my memoirs....I considered a few possibilites, but seeing as it's a 6 word maximum, that curtails my natural wordiness. So, below are a few of the possibilities:<br /><br />1. Lady's Companion to Duchess of Argylle<br /> - this doesn't really work as I started my journal LONG after my days at Le Jardin, but I'm a bit pressed for ideas.<br /><br />2. The Neglected Journal of Christine Pearse<br /> - very apt, I think<br /><br />4. Too Busy to Write Much Down<br /> - again very apt....I'm usually too busy doing to spend much time writing about it.<br /><br />And my personal favorite:<br /><br />5. Pass the Anti-Drama Spray Please!!!!!<br /><br /><br />Anyhow...the rules and my tags:<br /><br />1. write the title to your own memoir using six words.<br />2. post it on your blog.<br />3. link to the person that tagged you.<br />4. tag five more blogs.<br /><br />I don't know how to link, so just go and read my beloved Edward's journal....I'm sure you can find your way<br /><br />And now for the list of Victims....I mean tagged people:<br /><br />1. TotalLunar Eclipse<br />2. Fuzzball Ortega<br />3. ZenMondo Wormser<br />4. Puck Goodliffe<br />5. Abigail Raymaker<br /><br />There!!! Done!!!! Good luck to all of you! :-)Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-78620856340500975322008-06-14T09:26:00.004-06:002008-06-14T09:48:59.758-06:00Let Me Call You Sweetheart...<a href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SFPkH4xT_-I/AAAAAAAAAj4/wwjsiPRb1XQ/s1600-h/fisherbehave-7416.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211760017947230178" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SFPkH4xT_-I/AAAAAAAAAj4/wwjsiPRb1XQ/s320/fisherbehave-7416.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;"> I</span><span style="font-size:100%;">t is hard to believe that it has been one full year since Edward and I were handfasted above Loch Avie. What a year it has been! </span></div><div></div><div>In one year's time, Edward learned that he was the Earl of Primbroke, and more recently the Duke of Argylle. We have moved from our lovely home, Davaar, in Caledon Cay to the Highlands to Winterfell Harbourside and finally to Caledon Argylle (which we are still working on settling in there....do drop by though, or enjoy the space to boat or fly...free picnic lunch on the beach). </div><div></div><div></div><div> We also managed to survive the first massive SLRFL, the Egg War, the Harvest Festival, the Winter Season and many, many, many other events which keep our social calendars rather full (so please don't ask why I've not written anything in mine as of late...talk to my typist). We've explored new lands, shared many ideas, worked together on projects (yes, Eugenia, I've not forgotten about your farmhouse! :-D) and otherwise enjoyed spending time in each other's company. My respect and admiration for Edward has deepend in this past year.</div><div></div><div></div><div> Traditionally, the handfasting ceremony is for a year and a day. Due to RL obligations, we will not be able to hold a renewal ceremony that day, but I assure you all that we are remaining together and we will have a party as soon as RL simmers down a bit. Besides, we caused enough offense last year having our ceremony the day we did, with certain parties ;-) I'm certain Argylle will be the venue of choice and those wanting to come and celebrate with us will be able to explore our home at their leisure too. Edward has been very busy with certain projects and I look forward to seeing him complete them when he has more time.</div><div></div><div></div><div> I would like to thank Edward for sharing this past year with me as his wife. It has been a wonderful year and I'm looking forward to the times ahead with me at his side. Happy Anniversary my love!</div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-16976201070158632722008-05-16T15:40:00.003-06:002008-05-16T15:45:51.971-06:00Oooh...The Post Office is *Really* Going to Hate Us!<strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> P</span></strong>lease pardon the lack of pictures for this journal entry, but I cannot for the life of me find my camera in all this mess. To make a long story short (which I'll go into depth with later), Edward and I have moved yet again...but this time back to Caledon, to our very own Duchy! I'm sure by this point the post office will have given up and just sent everything to Rosehaven in Steelhead to be on the safe side. You can find us at Caledon Argylle, just north of Penzance and East of Brigadoon. There's plenty of room to sail or fly and hopefully soon I'll have a rest area ready for those who are looking for a place to picnic during their outings.<br /><br /> As soon as we are unpacked and settled, I'm sure there will be a celebration of some sort. Personally, I thinking of having a "Burning of the Trunks and Packing Crates" party, just so we don't have to do this again! Now where on earth did I put the teapot???Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-8658482176894635572008-04-30T07:37:00.004-06:002008-04-30T08:12:51.665-06:00Don't Unpack Your Trunks....We're Moving Again!<a href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SBh98l2--jI/AAAAAAAAAjw/zpQFzUwfzTM/s1600-h/Snapshot_592.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195040650080221746" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/SBh98l2--jI/AAAAAAAAAjw/zpQFzUwfzTM/s320/Snapshot_592.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">I</span></strong> don't think the dust had even settled at our Highlands home when my dear Edward received notice that a substantial tract of land had become available, not in our beloved Caledon as we had hoped but in our good neighbour of Winterfell. I know I had not even unpacked a single thing from the many crates that stood about in the house and we were making arrangements to get everything shipped to Winterfell Harbour.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Since I was away for this, I kept in touch with what was happening through telegrams and letters from my beloved. He had mentioned a few issues with our land in the Highlands, namely a person who thought it was his God-given right to traipse through people's homes (even with locked doors) and then be rude to the land owner. Hello to Banville my dear sir! As well, Edward had been wanting a large tract of land to be creative with and this opportunity was too good to pass up. So we are on the move again.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>On the land was a very large manor house, which is quite a bit larger than Davaar. It's been fun sorting out what to do with all the space and what should go where. Of course, there's a lot of possibilities for gardening too, and plenty of space for flying or sailing. Hopefully soon we will have things set to rights and will be able to have a housewarming function. Until then, please feel free to stop by on your travels. We look forward to seeing you!</div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-46554264220706275232008-04-07T15:03:00.006-06:002008-04-07T15:18:01.969-06:00Because I Know How the Rumour Mill Works....<a href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R_qNM-MD1zI/AAAAAAAAAjo/X0B8brmCie0/s1600-h/Travel+poster.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186613174862075698" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R_qNM-MD1zI/AAAAAAAAAjo/X0B8brmCie0/s320/Travel+poster.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>M</strong></span><span style="font-size:100%;">y typist knew that when she went on her trip to the United Kingdom that she would have to contend with the malicious tongues of those who have nothing better to do than to meddle in the lives of others. She forgot (ever so briefly) that there was a good chance of gossip occuring in SL as well.</span><br /><br />Today I received a telegram message from a friend who was concerned that he did not see my mailbox standing with Edward's at Davaar in the Cay. As it happens, Edward and I will be moving houses to the Highlands, which is an area in Caledon we both favour and have harboured hopes of living there for some time. We will miss our friends and neighbours in the Cay. but this was an opportunity too good to pass up.<br /><br />Since I will not be in world for an interval of time, Edward and I thought it would be prudent for me to pack all my belongings ahead of time, in case the land transfer took effect when I was unavailable. That way, my lost and found folder would not become cluttered (something like the rest of my inventory) as Edward cleared away our things for Sir Tele, who is the next caretaker of the corner plot. This is why my mailbox is not in it's customary place as well as why the land is not in bloom like it was.<br /><br />I look forward to my return and will miss my friends and neighbours. Once we are settled in the Highlands, I'm sure we will open our home to guests with a housewarming party. Until then, rest assured all is well between Edward and I. Bon Voyage!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-31900092834541571512008-03-26T08:28:00.003-06:002008-03-26T08:39:39.821-06:00Events to look forward to<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R-peheMD1xI/AAAAAAAAAi4/Q2KCJNHX22E/s1600-h/Spring.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182058250375517970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R-peheMD1xI/AAAAAAAAAi4/Q2KCJNHX22E/s320/Spring.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>For those of you who are interested, here is the list of Steelhead's April events. All events are from 7-9pm SLT unless otherwise stated.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Friday, April 4th: "Honey, you sunk my battleship!" (aka Underwater) dance, Steelhead docks/bay area</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Friday, April 11th: Arabian Nights (an event with Caledon/Loch Avie), Steelhead Grande Hotel and Ballroom</div><img src="http://lh4.google.com/cvanderloh/R-pfuuMD1yI/AAAAAAAAAjY/s8N0P90P0ag/s400/Arabian%20nights.jpg" /><br />(an example of appropriate attire for this event)<br /><div></div><br /><div>Friday, April 18th: Take Ruth on a date (aka Ugly Avatar), Kokopelli Stage</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Friday, April 25th: Formal dance in the Steelhead Gardens.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Hope to see you all there! :-D</div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-32932264825925585112008-03-16T17:36:00.003-06:002008-03-16T17:47:05.940-06:00Mere Words Cannot Convey the Feeling in My Heart<a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R92xYMfe3NI/AAAAAAAAAiw/dd6PmujUNxg/s1600-h/The+Primbrokes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178490175774186706" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R92xYMfe3NI/AAAAAAAAAiw/dd6PmujUNxg/s320/The+Primbrokes.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>It is hard to believe but it has been offically one year since my beloved Edward and I became a couple. As I sit here to pen these few lines, my mind goes back through the events of this past year. I must confess that he and I have had very few disagreements (both of which we were quite amiably able to agree to disagree) and only one very tense moment where our tempers flared. However, even in that circumstance no unkind or harsh words were directed at the other party. We have had many, many, *many* good times and I have enjoyed being the companion of choice for Edward.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I feel very fortunate and blessed to have found a gentleman who is kind, charming, has a delightful sense of humour, excellent style, exceedingly handsome and very talented as well. And for the record, no, the ticking does not drive me crazy....I rather like it and I miss it when I do not hear it. Besides, that arm is *very* useful for many things and the torque Edward can produce with it can open even the most difficult jar.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I would like to thank Edward for picking me over all the other delightful ladies in Caledon, Steelhead, etc and for being such a perfect partner in our journeys together. I look forward to watching many more sunsets with you my love.</div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-90350958782870080742008-02-20T10:12:00.001-07:002008-02-20T10:12:50.948-07:00<a href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R7xfiwDKozI/AAAAAAAAAhE/ahavurpmhT0/s1600-h/Gaiety+close.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169111522932859698" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R7xfiwDKozI/AAAAAAAAAhE/ahavurpmhT0/s320/Gaiety+close.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-22095542486470816452008-02-20T09:39:00.003-07:002008-02-20T09:53:24.618-07:00Skill by Association?As many of you readers may know, both my brother and my beloved husband are builders with skill. Wander around Steelhead and Steelhead Harbourside and you will see the many works of my brother (including his pink....yes PINK house....I think it needs flamingos in the front yard). He's also ventured into making treehouses as well. He is known for his flair with building and his skills are sought after by many, including the Duchess of Loch Avie, among others.<br /><br />Caledon Penzance is the home of my beloved's latest build, the Radio Riel office building. If you've not seen it yet, you really should. Many little details are added that make the whole even that more perfect and pleasing. Adding to his list of building accomplishments are his shop in Victoria City, Caledon as well as the "Garage" (officially known as the Cay Mooring Tower, but in all seriousness, Edward did need a place to house his carriages, horseless and otherwise as well as the other modes of transport he has) in the Cay.<br /><br />So, I am surrounded and buttressed by two wonderful builders. I have attempted making structures in the past, mostly for my own pleasure or purposes. My buildings have been rather simple and not of a grand scale by any means. I've never sold my buildings but have given away a couple to those who were needing shelter. I usually tinker with my cakes and perhaps make accessories like a table to hold my baked goods on. Until Miss Burton approached me.<br /><br />Miss Burton has a photography business and was needing a shop in which to operate it. She had a definate idea on what sort of feel she wanted for this building and asked me to build it. I was a bit surprised as I don't consider myself to be a builder of great calibre, but said I would do my best. Last night, I was able to show her the completed building and she was delighted. She said it was all she had hoped for and couldn't wait to get it on the ground, as soon as a land transaction had taken place.<br /><br />So, dear readers, as much as I would have loved to have included pictures with this entry, I'm afraid you are going to have to wait until the building is standing firmly on the ground for which it was intended. Then I shall post a few images but I think seeing it in person will be even better. It is quite grand and opulent, but not massive. I am considering rearranging the interior layout and changing one or two exterior details and packaging it to sell, for any interested parties.<br /><br />I do have to thank Lunar for dropping in to look it over during various stages of completion (and Fuzz too, even though he didn't have any tips to give, he does keep things interesting) as well as my dear Edward for putting up with my questions, giving me good advice and otherwise tolerating me in a fit of creative energy. He also double checked it to make sure everything was to his standard (he's slightly more detail oriented than I am *grins*). It was good to have him there when I wasn't sure which trim to use or wallpaper or how to keep my alphas from being at war (troublesome things that they are!).<br /><br />Stay tuned for the upcoming pictures!!!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-41323555302807497462008-02-14T18:54:00.002-07:002008-02-14T18:57:34.217-07:00A Heartfelt Token<a href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R7TxBgDKovI/AAAAAAAAAgo/yQ7B6U-ENTs/s1600-h/Roses+in+bowl.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5167019680586179314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R7TxBgDKovI/AAAAAAAAAgo/yQ7B6U-ENTs/s320/Roses+in+bowl.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">O</span></strong>n behalf of Lord Primbroke and myself, I'd like to wish our friends and neighbours a very Happy Valentine's Day. In all honesty, having the friends I do is a blessing in and of itself.Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-49489003917515417312008-01-10T13:11:00.000-07:002008-01-28T13:25:00.318-07:00Strolling Steelhead Harbourside(I apologize for this being so late....my photographic developing fluids froze and finding replacements was quite a challenge! Sadly, none of the photographs turned out, so you will have to use your imaginations, with my deepest apologies.)<br /><br />Now that the holiday season has passed, the decorations have been put away until next year and life has settled down a bit, I decided to go to Steelhead to give Rosehaven a good cleaning and see to our shops. Since Edward was exceedingly busy with his various projects, I ventured off by myself, planning on getting the fires burning at Rosehaven, so all would be ready for him when he'd be able to catch the train to join me for the Friday night dance. The train is a very safe way to travel these days, even for a woman alone. With the courteous (and well armed) citizens of Caledon on one end and Sheriff Ortega waiting in Steelhead on the other, miscreants dare not meddle with the train. Upon arriving at Rosehaven and getting the fireplaces and the kitchen stove started, I decided to wander over to Harbourside to see how things were progessing in our newest neighbourhood<br /><br />Upon entering the station, I noticed Lunar had renovated the building to have doors on either side, which was most thoughtful of him. I stepped outside and was greeted by the sight of a community that is starting to build itself up. Doc Wrangler's shop was directly opposite the station (most convenient when the new shipments arrive in on the train!) as well as a pub run by the Lady Protector herself, Diamanda Gustafson. The new doughnut shop was also nearby and it's been rumoured that our dear Sheriff has been seen in there quite often....I'm sure it's to warm his feet as he's doing his patrols.<br /><br />As I made my way around the neighbourhood, I was delighted to see how well everyone was doing, getting their plots settled. While there are a few tents yet, they do not detract from the surroundings but seem to blend in perfectly.<br /><br />Miss Eugenia Burton's farm seemed to be taking shape quite nicely too. I didn't see any stock yet, but I'm sure once the weather warms and she's made sure the barns and outbuildings are up to standard, her farm will be flourishing with all sorts of livestock....I have often wondered if she was considering operating a stud ranch, as she seems to have a good eye for male specimens of several species. *winks and grins*<br /><br />Our noble editor/writer/publisher of the Steelhead Anvil had put the safety of all seafaring traffic first and added a lighthouse to her home. She is very lucky to have a view of Sushi happily leaping in the water. I'm sure Sushi is very glad to be back in Steelhead waters after being away for so long.<br /><br />Of course, you can't have a stroll though Harbourside without pausing to admire Lunar's handiwork with the bridges. While I do love the smaller stone one, the tall bridge commands admiration. It is truly a thing of grace and beauty, not to mention built to withstand the winds that sweep in off the ocean. While the Grande Hotel and Ballroom is the crowing glory of Steelhead Centre, I would have to say that the bridge is the piece de la resistance in Harbourside.<br /><br />There seemed to be a couple of plots left, so on my way back to Rosehaven, I stopped by the Town Hall to see what the main map said. Sure enough, there are still a couple plots available, hopefully to be filled soon.<br /><br />After my travels, the house had warmed up sufficiently and the fires were burning well enough to boil some water (or ice, as it happened to be) for a cup of tea. The residents of Harbourside are making it a charming and delightful (not to mention whimsical) place to be. I look forward to seeing the neighbourhood develop further as people's ideas and plans are brought to life!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-58916104496712399592008-01-01T13:11:00.000-07:002008-01-02T09:27:15.759-07:00Happy New Year!Last night was the Caledon New Year's Eve festivities in Penzance, in case you somehow managed to miss all the posters and the journal blitz. It was an event that will not soon be forgotten. I'd like to thank Her Grace, Gabrielle Riel, Miss Persephone Gallindo and Miss Saffia Widdershins and all the other people who put an monumental amount of work into this to make it happen.<br /><br />Sadly, due to lag being rather bad and things not rezzing properly for me, I didn't take any pictures. However, I'm sure there will be many to be seen in other journals.<br /><br />Last year, I spent New Year's Eve in Steelhead. There was a small group of us on top of Lunar and Tensai's shop and Tensai managed to crash the sim with her spectacular fireworks display. I was merely Miss Christine McAllister with no skills worth discussing in polite society. While it was a small gathering, it was nice. How things have changed in a year!<br /><br />Now Steelhead has grown by 100%. The town has shaken off it's old look and is moving forward. We have many new residents who bring their own special traits that add to the community. I have learned how to build (tolerably well) and am active in both Steelhead and Caledon. I've also managed to charm a most handsome, talented, kind and loving man, of whom I barely knew a year ago. My friend list is also considerably longer than it was a year ago, for which I am thankful.<br /><br />I hope everyone has a New Year filled with health, happiness, success and love. Happy New Year!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-87882942610562136882008-01-01T13:10:00.000-07:002008-01-01T13:11:27.344-07:00Something just for fun<table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellspacing="8"> <tr><td valign="middle"><img src="http://www.masquerademaskarts.com/memes/minicrest.gif" /></td><td valign="middle"> <span style="color:black;"> My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is:</span> <br /> <span style="font-size:130%;color:black;"> Her Grace Lady Christine the Wholesome of Bow under Bumpstead </span><br /> <small> <a href="http://www.masquerademaskarts.com/memes/peculiartitle.php">Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title</a> </small> </td></tr> </table>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-2222125145171181842007-12-29T22:11:00.001-07:002007-12-29T23:18:17.022-07:00Party Like it's 1899!!!<span style="font-size:180%;"><strong></strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>T</strong></span>he pleasure of your company is requested at the New Year's Extravanganza being held in Caledon Penzance. Please peruse the information below and we look forward to your presence.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">T</span>he Caledon Gaiety Company, Prim Perfect Magazine, Radio Riel and Riel Events cordially invite you to celebrate New Year's Eve in the Independent State of Caledon at the: Gilded Age Masqued Charity Ball The Gaiety Theatre - Caledon Penzance<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">J</span>oin us for an all-day extravaganza of formal balls, live auctions, silent auctions and "best dressed" contests! Let's celebrate the new year and give to a worthy cause - "Gardens of Hope"!<br /><br />* 4:00AM - 6:00AM SLT - Sydney/Melbourne New Year's Eve Ball<br />* 2:00PM - 3:00PM SLT - Live Charity Auction<br />* 3:00PM - 5:00PM SLT - London New Year's Eve Ball<br />* 8:00PM - 10:00PM SLT - New York New Year's Eve Ball<br />* 10:00PM - 11:00PM SLT - Live Charity Auction<br />* 11:00PM - 1:00AM SLT - San Francisco New Year's Eve Ball<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">T</span>he Silent Auction will run for 24 hrs starting at 1:00AM SLT December 31st. You can view, and bid on, the items for the Silent Auction in the glass pavillion just south of the Theatre.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">A</span>ttire: Formal gowns and suits from 1850 - 1910 with masquesOr whimsical, yet tasteful, Victorian period costumes with masques<br />$500 L awarded to both Best Dressed Lady and Gentleman at each event<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">T</span>he event hosts are donating all auction proceeds to "Gardens Of Hope", an organization that builds greenhouses, tree nurseries, and more in Lesotho, Africa. These gardens are then used as a source of food, firewood and income for several communities in this Southern African nation.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">F</span>or more infromation visit Better World Island in SL at:<br />Or <a href="http://www.solidsaltspring.com/gardens.html">http://www.solidsaltspring.com/gardens.html</a> on the Internet.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I</span>n case of Sim crash or unbearable lag, we will have Coughton Court in Caledon Carntaigh open for the event as well. Guests can enjoy the simulcast of the event, view pictures of the Silent Auction items, and dance free of lag!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-85108377014155768752007-12-23T15:06:00.000-07:002007-12-23T15:13:10.672-07:00Merry Christmas and Season's Greetings<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R27dX8zFGNI/AAAAAAAAAd0/wokJUR3TfG0/s1600-h/Christmas-card.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5147294827658156242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R27dX8zFGNI/AAAAAAAAAd0/wokJUR3TfG0/s320/Christmas-card.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">O</span></strong>n behalf of Lord Primbroke and myself, I would like to wish all of our friends and acquaintances a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May you be given the gifts of good times, good health and good friends. We hope you enjoy this holiday season, regardless of what you celebrate and are able to be with the ones you love. </div></div>Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-45861199883972168602007-12-20T10:02:00.000-07:002007-12-20T10:07:30.486-07:00IT'S HERE!!!!It's finally here! Harbourside should be emerging from the depths very soon! It is ordered and on it's way. Fuzz, you had best get ready for a whole new view beside you, the land is going to look a bit different. I do hope it's up before Christmas...how lovely for all the new people to be able to be in their new homes for the Holidays. Hooray!!!!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-31389354818375920842007-12-17T10:26:00.000-07:002007-12-17T10:30:08.720-07:00Happy Anniversary!<a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R2ayA7Dqs0I/AAAAAAAAAdk/FQgXb7vDG1o/s1600-h/June+15_005.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_HOhLZdZwDAU/R2ayA7Dqs0I/AAAAAAAAAdk/FQgXb7vDG1o/s320/June+15_005.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5144995353240187714" /></a><br />Saturday was a very busy day. We had the Caledon-Winterfell ball, of which I was only able to stay for 3 of the dances and the Steelhead Pirate dance. Most importantly though, Saturday marked the 6 month anniversary for Edward and myself. My goodness! How time does fly. Here's to many more my love.Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-14926461449407067552007-12-17T10:04:00.000-07:002007-12-17T10:23:44.642-07:00Shiver Me Timbers!!!!!!Move over Captain Jack! Saturday night saw a very special event take place aboard the Jolly Pidgeon which had made berth at the Steelhead docks. In hopes of getting Steelhead Harbourside up and running, we held a fundraiser and was it successful! Not only that, but what is better than a pirate dance? A pirate dance with bare chested men! *fans herself*<br /><br />Indeed. It was a night to remember. Lunar decided to set the topless bar at L$15K. He should have set it higher (told ya bro). The men had stripped to their waists by 7:20pm. Ladies, bless you for having such generous natures. ;-)<br /><br />So without further ado, I present to you the images I was able to capture that night. Lately, things have been very slow to rezz for me and unfortunatly, I was not able to capture pictures of all the men in their topless state as some appeared to be wearing shirts until nearly the end of the dance. I *know* that none of the men shirked their duty (bless their hearts!) and I'm certain you will see evidence of them on other journals. As well, I didn't capture any picture of the brave ladies who went topless when the pot hit L$60K. Sorry fellas!<br /><br /><img src="http://lh6.google.com/cvanderloh/R2ausbDqssI/AAAAAAAAAcM/bvzOuTHxW_M/s400/Pirate%20party_001.jpg" /><br />Our very fine, obviously easy on the eyes Sheriff, Fuzzball Ortega<br /><br /><img src="http://lh5.google.com/cvanderloh/R2autLDqsuI/AAAAAAAAAcc/6ecCLtSsZlQ/s400/Pirate%20party_003.jpg" /><br />Yummy! And this is all mine! Ladies, eat your hearts out! ;-D<br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.google.com/cvanderloh/R2ausrDqstI/AAAAAAAAAcU/0W6CTDYJbwo/s400/Pirate%20party_002.jpg" /><br />Aza, showing he has the heart for Steelhead (literally!)<br /><br /><img src="http://lh3.google.com/cvanderloh/R2autrDqsvI/AAAAAAAAAck/rQ3TeQIXJA4/s400/Pirate%20party_004.jpg" /><br />Lunar (or "Abs" as he's been dubbed by Miss Burton) showing his stuff<br /><br /><img src="http://lh4.google.com/cvanderloh/R2aut7DqswI/AAAAAAAAAcs/2_t613r_7lo/s400/Pirate%20party_005.jpg" /><br />A view of some of the revellers<br /><br /><img src="http://lh6.google.com/cvanderloh/R2auubDqsxI/AAAAAAAAAc0/rUj6goG45mo/s400/Pirate%20party_006.jpg" /><br />Do I really need to explain this? *giggles*<br /><br />Thank you to all our fine gentlemen who lost their shirts for Steelhead. As one of the ladies in the crowd, let me just say this....it was a night for drool buckets, with or without Robbie Williams playing. In fact, I think the water levels in the harbour went up about 6 inches. Thanks again fellas! It was truly a night to remember!!!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7154021539483065012.post-79804853753624851632007-12-11T18:27:00.000-07:002007-12-11T18:30:16.415-07:00So....You think you have what it takes to be a Victorian??While skulking about on the aethernet, I found a couple interesting sites to visit. Look them up and see if you have what it takes to be a proper Victorian!<br /><br />http://www.mccord-museum.qc.ca/en/keys/games/17<br /><br />http://www.lahacal.org/gentleman/<br /><br />Have Fun!Christine McAllister Pearsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03595272017216564685noreply@blogger.com