So it seems like lately my every waking thought has been fest related in some way. I've been thinking a lot about my new costume. I bought the fabric last week. I'm not sure of the actual fiber content, but it feels like a cross between velvet and suede. It's a coppery orange, and I got an ivory colored silk for the sleeves of my chemise (linen for the body of it). 

 Once I get back from Missouri on the 8th, construction begins. First I have to get the corset done, then I can work on making the mock-up and pattern. It will be a long process as I don't have a pattern already, but I think I've found a few ways to make it go quickly. 

 I've decided on Caterina Francesca Stornelli for my name. Stornelli are literally the rhymes invented when singing. Took me way too long to find the surname, but that's done now and I'm happy. 

 I may have found a person or two to play guitar for me occasionally which will add a nice touch to the songs. Maybe I could use said person for larger performances? 

 Also, I totally found a book of Italian Renaissance Songs on a website a few weeks ago. The songs are ones I've never heard of and can't seem to find sheet music for anywhere else, so it was a good purchase. I now have 30 songs to learn. But I'll probably set a goal of 5 to start. 

 I am considering buying a longbow, or perhaps  recurve. Does anyone have any tips for deciding on what to get or where to get one? Since this will be my first one, I am not looking to spend a ton of money. And then, of course, once I know whether or not it's something I'll pursue, I'll spend more money on something nice. But, if I'm looking to do some target practice, and possibly some hunting, what should I look at getting? The lowest weight for hunting in MN is now 30#, so I'm thinking that anywhere between 30 and 40# should be good. But which type should I go for, and is there anyway I can get just a simple version of what I'd like. OR is there somewhere I can test these out and buy accordingly? I have an archery shop near my house that I am going to check out, but I don't know if I'll be able to try out the bows or not. And who knows if they'll even have one in my weight, etc. 

Any tips at all would be appreciated.