[Jararvellir] Thanks from the Nordskogen WW13 Autocrat

[Susan Henry]

This time as WW Autocrat has been so filled with blessings and learning experiences that
there is no way that I can thank everyone without writing a letter that would be far too
long so just let me hit some high points.

First, I need to mention Iohanna Carracci, my partner from last year.  She taught me the
ropes and a lot about patience, diplomacy, and organization as well.

Second, thanks are due to the marvelous Baronage of our two Baronies: TE Eithni,
Khadijah, and Rodrigo.  All of you have been gracious, flexible, strong, and fun.
It has been a particular joy to get to know you, Eithni, and an enormous pleasure to be
among those to welcome you to the Order of the Laurel.  You are so my peer!

Next, I need to mention my two apprentices, Tosten du Calais and Ulrica of Lincoln, who
were willing to come to WW this year and work really hard.  I'm so proud of you both!

Because of work obligations, this was the first year that I was able to attend all of
work week and it is indeed a magical time.  I am now able to fully appreciate the great
skills of Ed and all of his work crew as well as many others.  Special thanks must go to
Mistress Anne and Baroness Madeleine for the fantastic 4th of July party and parade. 
You are all wonderful and WW just would not be the same place without you all!

All of the department heads and their helpers worked so hard and got so much done AND
still managed to pack in a lot of fun.  You are all impressively awesome and will always
have a place in my heart.

It's hard for autocrats to remember to stay fed and watered and I'm so grateful to all
of the folks in Autocrat's Point who helped keep Seraphina and I cared for and sane.
Alasdair, Blue, Chuckie, Jois, Matthew, Drachon and Cianna, Delphine, Iohanna, and
Jagiello:  you are all patient, capable, and funny folk who've given me some wonderful,
if, um, unquotable memories.

Last and not at all least, I must thank my fellows on the autocrat team:  Seraphina,
Yseult, and Tara.  It's been great to work with all of you!

When I asked Ulrica what her favorite thing about WW was, she said it was the sense of
community and common purpose.  Indeed, this year, even more than usual, it felt to me
that all of Northshield came together for a week to create our own special small town.

And, so in gratitude for your care, your generosity, and all of your hard work, please
accept from me the gift that I gave to all of the WW staff: the poem below.

With a grateful and full heart,

Yours in service,

Rosanore of Redthorn, WW13 Nordskogen Autocrat, soon to be retired


AN AUTOCRAT’S THANKS
By Rosanore of Redthorn

In the realm of Northshield where rude Winter blows,
We’re pleased to suppose that Summer never comes.
Still seasons roll round till Fire defeats his foes
And our joyous time of journeys shall return.

So Summer is now here.  Her sweet siren song
Fills cold and weary hearts with the road’s wild call.
We leave hearths to gladly go fortune’s way along
Seeking side by side for battle’s fearsome roar.

That battle’s cry calls folk to black river’s fall
Where flake and fish all flock to fight as friends;
Or buy a merchant’s wares or meet the bard’s call
To share songs and tales of triumphs old and new.

Now the brash hammer’s gong makes the metal glow
While thrum of bows and thud of axes join the song.
The rapiers reply to boffers’ blunted blows
And the marshalls’ cry of “Hold!” makes cadence strong.

For twelve fabled years has this fierce clash of arms
Called all wanderers to come and wield their skills.
So thirteen years are summed and still WW’s charms
Have strength to gather souls who seek a dream.

What magic or skill has made this place survive?
Is it mystic lore or mighty works of old?
‘Tis your great gifts of service that make it thrive.
By these humble words now let your worth be told!

c2006 Susan G. Henry