I often wonder at the people who come share experience in this life. There are some that appear again and again throughout the years and always leave you thinking about them with a smile on your face.

Carl West is one of those souls in my life.

It has been my greatest pleasure to know Carl throughout the years.

We first met in the guild of St. Anne, where he was a Pursuvant and I was a water wench, it was my first year and the Ren-culture had not yet drenched me to the bone. From time to time, Carl would lead the crowd in a cheer for the bounty of womanhood and present me and my water pitchers and my jugs to a packed stadium of Joust enthusiasts. To a 19 year old me, it was both embarrassing and exhilarating all at the same time. I loved his character and the way he commanded the crowd.

A few years later at Old San Francisco Faire, he donned the guise of the cracked Emperor Norton and we had a parade for him. I learned about a great character they rarely mention in school.

Fast forward again a few years and I was so happy to have the opportunity to work with Carl again in the company shows of AYLI and then Red Barn.

Carl is an amazing actor with an excellent sense of timing and humor.

Back stage he is quiet and seemingly reserved but always friendly, supportive and helpful to anyone around him and ready to have in interesting conversations if you like. Drop by sometime, you'll like who you find.

Carl, You are an absolute Gem and I hope we remain friends for yet years to come.

AND..... I hope I get to spank you again in NFP 06 !!!