November 27, 2001

On Saturday, November the 24th, I organized and hosted a small historical costume party. I had always wanted to do something like that, but never had the courage.

There were eleven guests, besides my family. I had specified that the theme was "characters from history," and that they would possibly have to explain to everyone who their character was and what they did.

It was a tremendous success! A widely varied mix of characters showed, in full costume. Davy Crockett, Watchman Nee, king Charles V, Captain McCormick, George and Margaret Fox, Florence Nightingale and strangely enough, even though he's not dead (which was a seriously debated subject) Mick Jagger.

We began by sitting in a circle and talking about our characters. It was open for questions, and things became hilarious as the historical figures took on their identity and began discussing politics and the dynamics between them. Watchman Nee was trying to keep peace, though he didn't think highly of Charles V, Lady Jane was leery of Mick Jagger, who was trying to flirt with her, Davy Crocket kept eyeing Captain McCormick's badge and pistol and George Fox was annoyed that he had spent half his married life in prison.

Before dinner, George Fox (my dad) pulled out the guitar, and Watchman Nee (Abraham) ran to get his violin. Songbooks were handed out and everyone sang for awhile.

Dinner was simple, but there was plenty of it. Turkey soup, Pasta and cheese casserole, apple salad and homemade bread. Apple pie and chocolate mints were served for dessert.

Then Captain McCormick announced that the next activity would be a game called Mafia, a game he and Charles V would be organizing.

The object of the game was to find the two mafia guys, before they assassinated the whole town. Cards were dealt, determining whether you were a townsperson, a mafia guy, or the angel of mercy. Then the people voted on who they thought was mafia.

After a round of Mafia, which everyone seemed to enjoy immensely, I announced a talent show. Each contestant had five minutes to perform. Then the judges voted on them. We heard comedy, saw dancing, and heard all sorts of music.

Four of the contestants played accordion, which was actually a bit surprising. The third runner up was Davy Crockett, for comedy, dancing and song. He had covered all the categories with his performance.

The second runner up was George Fox for playing folk guitar and singing "Looking Out My Backdoor." He also played the accordion for a short time.

And the winner of the competition was an unnamed ten-year-old Indian in full war paint. He had charmed the group with his accordion and joke-telling. The prize was a box of chocolate mints.

Afterward we gathered around the table and played Mafia again. It was late into the night before everyone tired of the game. Looking back, I'm glad it all turned out so well. I'll put that day down as a complete success!

Until next time, God Bless!

Lady Brooke

More photos from the costume party can be viewed here