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Written By Valencia

May 28, 2023, 1:15 p.m.(11/21/1019 AR)

I could not have had a more wonderful time. I adore being south again. The air. The seas. The scents and sounds. Even the way the stars shine at night. The world feels so different. It is rejuvenating, if I am honest.

The event was magical. The guests charming and beautiful. The traditions and delights of the night brought a warmth to my heart so great that my cheeks still hurt from the smiling so much. The wonderful vows. The stories and toasts. Words heartfelt and so full of meaning. The dancing, the ambiance... everything was sublime.

Upon reflection at the end of the evening, as watched the night from my window, two things struck me. Happiness for others is truly the best kind and how happy it makes me to see two people so in love find each other.

I cannot say how much I adore this. It is a beautiful thing that I hope to see more of. If all such pairing were so perfect and lovingly joyous I think the world would be a happier place.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Jan. 14, 2023, 4:28 p.m.(3/23/1019 AR)

The simple promise of a returning spring can often be the seed of hope we need to weather even the harshest of winters. I look forward to seeing the world blossom anew.

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Written By Valencia

Dec. 18, 2022, 6:25 p.m.(1/25/1019 AR)

An old friend was brought to mind at the Baroness Lucita's recent song and storytelling event. It has been some time since my mind has traveled to those days. So many, many memories both good and bad.

It was good to hear the name Sparte Grayfellow spoken again. Strangely, he had been on mind earlier this week. I do not know what exactly brought him to mind, though there are those from the past who are not far from the surface of my thoughts.

Perhaps the weather and the unexpected thought of stoats and their winter coats as I was admiring the new sculptures of snow hidden here and there in the woodland gardens. But I digress.

It was a bittersweet to remember him so. That kind-hearted man who tried to help so many without need for glory or praise. Our Commander of the Iron Calvary, storykeeper, kind-hearted warrior, friend, and so much more. He was among the best of us, I think. Still is.

I miss his presence and how he affected the world around him.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Oct. 30, 2022, 4:24 p.m.(8/27/1018 AR)

There is such great delight in seeing someone dancing close to what might be the love of a lifetime.

I adore it and hope for nothing less than success for it.

Dance on, my loves.

~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Oct. 23, 2022, 10:16 p.m.(8/13/1018 AR)

There is anticipation in the air as the blood moon comes. You can feel it seeping and drifting like a low-hanging mist that ripples and creeps at the corners of your senses.

I adore that soft glimmer of something akin to magic in the air. It makes my heart race just a little.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Oct. 9, 2022, 9:04 p.m.(7/13/1018 AR)

I am feeling tired today. I think I stayed up far too late again. It is easy to do so when you are enjoying the conversation.

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Written By Valencia

Oct. 2, 2022, 4:16 p.m.(6/27/1018 AR)

Crops planted in ill soil can make for spindly crops. What does survive, however, may grow much stronger and sweeter and, with a little bit of care and time, can often make a far better spirit, goods or wine.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Sept. 25, 2022, 1:15 a.m.(6/12/1018 AR)

The Lasting Hope Observatory is truly a work of art. I'm so glad I was able to see it.

Well worth a visit, especially in fine company.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Sept. 24, 2022, 4:27 p.m.(6/11/1018 AR)

Another Sip'n Spar success. So very grateful to all that came and to those who kindly donated.

Special thanks to Prince Patrizio of Pravus for helping to house it and his generosity and to Missere Master Caspian Wild for hosting and being our guest Sergeant of Arms for the evening.

I would love to publicly thank our donors, but will ask their permission first so they can retain privacy, if they wish. Their comfort is important to me.

We now await a finally tally and discussions with our beneficiaries. I hope this will help.

It was a wonderful night. Everyone was a delight. I'm excited to see what comes next. Until then I shall bask in the happy glow of all those who participated and the good they have done for just a little longer.

So grateful.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

July 10, 2022, 2:23 p.m.(12/24/1017 AR)

A moment to breathe and to perhaps stop to be playful is a precious thing. As such, I am wisely reminded that one should always try to take a moment to reflect upon, and be grateful for, the good things.

That is not to say we should rest on our laurels or stop working toward our goals or that terrible things do not happen. It is more an opportunity to remember to appreciate the good that we have so that we might continue to keep rising and moving forward.

For this sage advice and these happy moments I am very grateful.

~~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

July 3, 2022, 8:05 p.m.(12/11/1017 AR)

Autumn is such a beautiful time of year. That time of transition that brings with it a new and fresh magic to the world. I often think that the between times are the best. That tingling sense of anticipation mixed with the rich pleasures of the present. Truly the best of both worlds.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

May 22, 2022, 10:25 p.m.(9/11/1017 AR)

Relationship Note on Katya

A generous gift from Lady Katya for my Hart's public library and my own. Two fine copies of a new book aptly named, "Knotwork: A Guide" by the Lady Katya of Grimhall herself. A much spoken about and useful tome, I am sure.

I have to admit I truly enjoy seeing another beautiful, newly bound book upon my Hart's shelves. I cannot wait to see whose interest it attracts, especially with the upcoming contest.

Thank you again, dearest lady. I look forward to seeing many more books from you in future. It is wonderful to see another wonderful author blossom in the Arvani arts scene.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

May 22, 2022, 9:25 p.m.(9/11/1017 AR)

I was so very delighted to be among those present to witness and celebrate the marriage of Scout Rowenova and Missere Tarik of Morien.

Truly, there has never been two so beautifully matched. May the gods and spirits bless you both and offer you an eternity of joyous and golden years together full of love, luck and delights yet to come.

I adore to seeing your happiness.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~@

Written By Valencia

March 13, 2022, 4:41 p.m.(4/10/1017 AR)

I had a lovely chat with Lord Mattheu of Rivenshari today about the nature of love and the place of it in marriage.

I must sincerely say that only tyrants and slavers would force a person into a marriage that they do not want. It is a sick and sad practice to sell one's family and vassals like this, as if they were bargaining chips, writs or chattel. Shameful really.

There are other ways to bond families and allies.

I realize that some will not agree with me, at least publicly, and that is fine. I am, of course, clearly not one to shy from divergent opinions from time to time.

But does our society not need this to ensure we are not so interbred in our ideas that the very fabric of our society becomes feeble? Surely, we are not so fragile and weak that we can not stand a simple question, honest concern or a dissenting voice.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

March 11, 2022, 12:22 p.m.(4/6/1017 AR)

Reckless passion can be costly, but some things are worth the price.

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Written By Valencia

Feb. 27, 2022, 6:12 p.m.(3/11/1017 AR)

I am elated. For once again, my Hart’s arena rang out with good cheer and the clash of armor and weapons.

It has been sometime since I have hosted one of my Hart’s Sip n’ Spars and I truly have missed it. So many wonderful faces, excellent matches and such good-natured cheer and sportsmanship shared. A breath of fresh air and so heart-warming.

And, oh, so many guests that with deepest apologies and regrets I cannot even begin to recall every good and wonderful soul that attended. But truly, despite my clouded memory, each and every guest was so very much welcome and their open enjoyment made me smile like the cat who got the best of morning cream.

Always exciting, Missere Champion Caspian Wild was a truly the man of the hour, acting as our guest Sergeant of Arms for us -- both seeing things done right in the ring and even offering us an inspiring showing of his own skills. Lord Ian and Lord Wash of Kennex both were present in fierce form as was that of the dashing Prince Patrizio of Pravus, the elegantly-bladed Princess Terese of Valardin, the merry Lord Mattheu of Rivenshari, the vivacious Mistress Gianna Delvecchio and the notorious Blackheart Raven of Pravus –- all taking a turn to dance upon the sands to the great delight of the crowd.

It most pleasant to see my cousin Theo among the faces with a lovely woman, Princess Keely of Grayson, I believe. They seemed so happy together. It made me smile greatly. Sadly, I was drawn into my duties as host to this wonderful crowd, including that of the charming Countess Thea of Wyvernheart and spirited Missere Master Wealdmai, one of my Hart’s most esteemed guests, were also in attendance and making things even more interesting with wagers flying and generous donations being made to my Hart’s charitable arm. I am endlessly grateful to them for being such kind and generous support of our charitable endeavors.

As one might expect, the event was as ever raucous and loud, and far too wonderful for words to express, and I must say I am stunned, deeply honoured and burgeoning with delighted the pride that so many seemed so very happy to see our Sip n’Spars resume.

I cannot wait for the next event, be it another one of marital arts prowess or perhaps something more whimsical or romantic such as a grand ball or party.

Whatever they shall be, they are bound to be equally as fun and exciting. I guess we shall have to see what inspires.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~@

Written By Valencia

Feb. 20, 2022, 1:30 p.m.(2/24/1017 AR)

It has been some time since we have hosted a proper Sip n' Spar at the Hart and I can already feel the excitement building.

My staff have been hard at work seeing that everything is well prepared and ready for another inspiring night of good friends, old and new. Even Missere Master Barkeep Maggnus is grinning more than usual.

I must admit that always feel a little tension before such events. Even ones I have hosted a dozen times or more. I suppose it is because I want nothing more than to ensure that all my guests are feel so very pleased and very well cared for.

In truth, other than my charitable pursuits, it is likely that is why I host such spectacles and occasions. I admit openly that it is always a joy to see such good and high spirits in abundance, regardless of whether my guests are cheering heartily from my Hart's tables and stands or stepping upon the sands to test their mettle.

People's pleasure and delight is truly something worth striving for.

I look forward to tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Feb. 10, 2022, 1:55 a.m.(2/3/1017 AR)

I was reflecting on things tonight over a glass of good wine -- a quite moment after a wonderful but busy night -- when I happened upon a treasure in my collection. A song written by a very dear friend to celebrate the first year of the opening of my Hart.

It made me smile to think on her and her beautiful vision, and upon the many good souls who have warmed and filled my Hart over the years.

When I think back upon all that has happened here -- gatherings and events of all sizes; fundraisers for good causes; exciting tourneys and contests; casual meetings with friends; impromptu parties, sparring matches and midnight swims; moments of great solemnity and of great joy; and all the wonderful, unexpected meetings of chance -- I cannot help but smile. Stories started, friendships foraged. So many hearts touched and memories made and shared. It is rather remarkable.

I did not know on that happy day what would happen or where I would be now. And, to be true, I could not be any happier. I will never regret following my heart and this passion to support good causes, raise spirits and to create this meeting place for all.

Thank you, my dear friends, for sharing my Hart with me over these many years. It is because of you that The Golden Hart continues to thrive and to do good works still.

Here's to many more wonderful days and nights ahead. My Hart is very much yours, as is so often said.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

[OOC: Included with this journal entry is a sheet of fine parchment with the follow rendered in an elegant and neat cursive hand:

Welcome to My Hart:
A song with a catchy, merry rhythm good for dancing or singing along.

The Golden Hart holds a social sway
Something for all, during night or day.
There's beautiful places for quiet repose
Or gambling and games that everyone knows.

It has an arena with exciting spars,
A variety of drinks in all of the bars,
And food if hungry, or food for thought,
The Golden Hart's charms can't be bought.

So come join in let us dance and sing
And see what delights the night will bring.
Leave cares behind, don't bring them here
In The Hart tonight we'll create good cheer.

The portly man and the spritely girl
Decide to give this dance a whirl.
With quick steps left, a kick to the right
They begin to enjoy a merry Hart night.

The dance is joined by a very tall man
And a saucy girl who holds his left hand.
Then the hostess dances by with a happy wink
In the arms of a guard whose armor does clink.

The colorful swirl of the dancing crowd
Suggests tonight there's no sadness allowed.
Joyful notes come from instruments we play
As patrons listen, dancers spun and sway.

Drinks are held aloft in elaborate toasts
Made of long stories, bragging and boasts.
Of the beautiful princess with a heart of gold
And her Golden Hart welcome to young and old.

Written 9/12/1007 AR by Lucita Igniseri for the anniversary of the Golden Hart opening. (ooc: https://bit.ly/3Jyjkif)]

Written By Valencia

Feb. 8, 2022, 12:50 p.m.(1/28/1017 AR)

The final chapter of the Refugee Charity Tournament hosted by the Ambassador Bahiya'al'mathali of the Eurusi Consulate, Princes Kenjay of Redrain and Patrizio of Pravus at the Hart was again a triumph. Truly, to see such talent and skill upon the sands for such a good cause is always a tremendous thrill.

My compliments and thanks to the noble Ambassador and the good Princes of Pravus and Redrain for their most successful event.

My thanks to finalists and all those who competed as well. The finalists, Archlector Porter of Kennex, Sir Corban of Telmar, Lord Haakon of Eswynd and Lord Ian of Kennex, are all men of great talent and esteem and the matches were fierce ones indeed. In the end, it was Lord Ian who prevailed, a well earned title considering his match on the field.

The show of such good sport and comradery was beautiful to see as was the good spirits of all in attendance. It was wonderful to witness such good cheer and a great deal of cheering that filled the arena from floor to ceiling.

Of special note, I wish to deeply thank all those who donated to the cause. Such gifts are so vital in ensuring the well being and strength of all in our Compact. The generosity that I am sure was shared is truly something to honour and be inspired by.

I'm so glad to have had this signature event of the season held at my Hart, and am very much looking forward to the upcoming Refugee Charity Archery Tournament. If this series of tourneys is any indication, it, too, should be a spectacular event.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Feb. 6, 2022, 1:01 p.m.(1/24/1017 AR)

The final event for the Refugee Charity Tournament Championship is almost upon us –- a wonderful charitable affair hosted by the Ambassador Bahiya'al'mathali of the Eurusi Consulate and the good Princes Kenjay of Redrain and Patrizio of Pravus.

I am so honoured that my Hart is home to such good things. And, I must say that the excitement is palatable. Even my ladies and gentlemen at the Hart are abuzz with excitement as they make preparations.

There is a reason a reason for this, however. For truly, the men about to step upon the sands are among the most formidable and exciting fighters in all of Avrum.

Archlector Porter of Kennex, Sir Corban of Telmar, Lord Haakon of Eswynd and Lord Ian of Kennex are all respected both upon and off the field of battle. Each one so different in style and how they approach their craft. Truly remarkable.

I know that each and every one of these remarkable warriors will without a doubt fight well and true, and that all who attend thrill at what the see and the excellent company they well meet.

And, as always, it is my greatest hope that the final fundraising will be so successful that even more people ill be helped to a better life. In fact, that may be the most brilliant win of all.

If you have not attended, the final event is highly recommended.

~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@

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