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Arlo's New Year's Outing Part V!
Posted 9 years agoFor the fifth year in a row I performed as Arlo for a New Year's Eve event at my workplace. It was again a very fun evening, lots of hugs, high-fives, giving out of goodies for the kids and some improvising with another staff member during a presentation (yes, Arlo got let out of his 'photo corner' for the evening, lol)!
Midway through the night a lady came up and asked for a photo and mentioned afterwards that she'd been coming to the event for years and looked forward to seeing 'the wolf'. Little moments like this and the shy kids who scope me out for a few minutes and then come up to say hi with smiles on their faces are what make this event so much fun. (However I won't deny that getting paid overtime to perform in suit ain't too shabby either.)
My one regret is the morning after. I'm now on the near side of fifty and my knees and lower back grumble at me all the next day for my exertions of the night before.....sigh, such is life!
don
I'll finish up by wishing all my followers the very Happiest of New Year's. Be safe, be well and don't forget to leave a little time during the day to follow your own happiness!
Big Hugs from 'Da Wolf'!
Midway through the night a lady came up and asked for a photo and mentioned afterwards that she'd been coming to the event for years and looked forward to seeing 'the wolf'. Little moments like this and the shy kids who scope me out for a few minutes and then come up to say hi with smiles on their faces are what make this event so much fun. (However I won't deny that getting paid overtime to perform in suit ain't too shabby either.)
My one regret is the morning after. I'm now on the near side of fifty and my knees and lower back grumble at me all the next day for my exertions of the night before.....sigh, such is life!
don
I'll finish up by wishing all my followers the very Happiest of New Year's. Be safe, be well and don't forget to leave a little time during the day to follow your own happiness!
Big Hugs from 'Da Wolf'!
Graymuzzle Meme: The Arlo Responses
Posted 10 years agoJust saw this as I was clearing out my FA pages (haven't been around of late) and thought I'd chime in...better late than 'late' as in dead, so to speak!
1. How many jobs have you had, and which was your favourite?
Whoosh....way to test my memory! I've worked in a pet store, an animal shelter, done telephone customer service, worked retail as a bookseller and am now a teaching naturalist (my chosen career field). I LOVE my job as a naturalist...I am living proof that you can still use your college degree even close to 20 years after you get it, lol!
2. When did you first connect to other people via computers?
1997 is when I first discovered this wonderful thing called the intronets! (raise your hand if you remember dial up?)
3. We’re/are you on AOL? Compuserve? LJ? Dreamwidth? A Listserv? Other?
Nope, just a little old Hotmail account from the dinosaur days.
4. If you went to college, does your major match your career/current job?
Yes and Yes (see end of answer to question 1)
5. Have you had a mammogram? Colonoscopy?
That's a rather personal question...PASS!
6. When did you get your first cell phone? What was it like? (Did it have a screen? Could you text? Was it a brick or flip?)
2009. The only reason I have a different one now is that I fell in a creek and drowned the first one. It is a flip, it makes calls. That's it.
7. When did your family first acquire a color TV?
Probably around 1976 or 77.
8. When did your family acquire a second TV?
My family never had more than 1 TV. When I got together with my SO, we kept both our TVs so we have one in the bedroom & 1 in the media room.
9. Did you ever own “designer jeans”?
ROTFLMAO....Oh hey-yall no!
10. Have you ever been to a disco?
Sadly, I was technically 'too young' to go to an actual disco. I did however enjoy going to roller discos. (All Skate....All Skate Safely....All Skate)
11. How many places (towns, states, countries) have you lived in?
Towns: 6, States: 2, Countries: 1
12. Have any of you contemporary friends died? (I.e., people more or less you age.)
Only one, I have been very fortunate.
13. Are you parents still living?
Yes. All my grandparents are deceased.
14. Do you have any gray hairs?
I am about the 60% saturation point with gray hair. I don't cover up my gray, I worried hard to get it and it shows people I have a teeny bit of life experience, lol.
15. Did you or your family own a Betamax?
Nope. But I can remember going to Circuit City in 1988 and proudly buying my first VCR for an outrageous amount of money.
16. How did you spend New Year’s Eve 1999/2000?
Eating Chinese takeout w/my SO & watching a Marx Brothers movie marathon (courtesy of my still functioning VCR from 1988!)
17. What’s the oldest article of clothing you still wear?
I have an army field jacket that I borrowed (cough...stole...cough) from my dad in 1985. Still fits, go me!
18. Do you eat your vegetables?
Heck yeah young-un's....a healthy colon is a happy colon and something you don't take for granted as you slide into middle age. Besides they taste really nommy!
19. Are the privileges of adulthood worth the responsibilities?
I could reply with some amazingly profound philosophical answer here but the truth is I know quite a few folks who are chronologically considered adults but are in no way what I would call responsible (and they now have kids).
The humorous/sarcastic answer is NO. Being able to vote, drive a car, drink, set my own curfews, buy/read/watch/eat/wear what I choose do not begin to make up for the fact that once you reach the glorious and coveted state of 'adulthood' you learn the dirty little secret that comes with it: NOW YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR EVERYTHING YOURSELF!!!! SUCKERS!!!!! I understand now why my parents seemed so stressed out and grumpy all the time when I was a child.
But seriously, for all its hassles and tribulations (mortgage, doctor bills and automotive repair costs)I enjoy my life more as a middle-aged adult than I ever did when I was younger. As a young adult I spent too much time worrying about what others thought I should be. Now I am who I am and the world can like me or not as they choose. I love my SO/friends and they love me. It is more than enough!
20. Do you feel like an adult?
Frick no, lol! I'm 47 and in my brain I still feel like I'm in my early 20s. Though some days my body tells me it really is 120 years old!
21. Is youth wasted on the young?
Sometimes I think so...only because I remember all the inconsequential things I obsessed about when I was young. If I could go back in time I'd tell my 18 year old self to just relax....that in ten years what your hair or clothes looked like, what cliques you hung out with or fads you glommed on to will not matter at all or define you as a person.
As for my present self, I would almost give a limb to be able to lie down and take a nap in the middle of the day like I was forced to when I was a child!
Hope you enjoyed reading this & it wasn't a total time waster.
1. How many jobs have you had, and which was your favourite?
Whoosh....way to test my memory! I've worked in a pet store, an animal shelter, done telephone customer service, worked retail as a bookseller and am now a teaching naturalist (my chosen career field). I LOVE my job as a naturalist...I am living proof that you can still use your college degree even close to 20 years after you get it, lol!
2. When did you first connect to other people via computers?
1997 is when I first discovered this wonderful thing called the intronets! (raise your hand if you remember dial up?)
3. We’re/are you on AOL? Compuserve? LJ? Dreamwidth? A Listserv? Other?
Nope, just a little old Hotmail account from the dinosaur days.
4. If you went to college, does your major match your career/current job?
Yes and Yes (see end of answer to question 1)
5. Have you had a mammogram? Colonoscopy?
That's a rather personal question...PASS!
6. When did you get your first cell phone? What was it like? (Did it have a screen? Could you text? Was it a brick or flip?)
2009. The only reason I have a different one now is that I fell in a creek and drowned the first one. It is a flip, it makes calls. That's it.
7. When did your family first acquire a color TV?
Probably around 1976 or 77.
8. When did your family acquire a second TV?
My family never had more than 1 TV. When I got together with my SO, we kept both our TVs so we have one in the bedroom & 1 in the media room.
9. Did you ever own “designer jeans”?
ROTFLMAO....Oh hey-yall no!
10. Have you ever been to a disco?
Sadly, I was technically 'too young' to go to an actual disco. I did however enjoy going to roller discos. (All Skate....All Skate Safely....All Skate)
11. How many places (towns, states, countries) have you lived in?
Towns: 6, States: 2, Countries: 1
12. Have any of you contemporary friends died? (I.e., people more or less you age.)
Only one, I have been very fortunate.
13. Are you parents still living?
Yes. All my grandparents are deceased.
14. Do you have any gray hairs?
I am about the 60% saturation point with gray hair. I don't cover up my gray, I worried hard to get it and it shows people I have a teeny bit of life experience, lol.
15. Did you or your family own a Betamax?
Nope. But I can remember going to Circuit City in 1988 and proudly buying my first VCR for an outrageous amount of money.
16. How did you spend New Year’s Eve 1999/2000?
Eating Chinese takeout w/my SO & watching a Marx Brothers movie marathon (courtesy of my still functioning VCR from 1988!)
17. What’s the oldest article of clothing you still wear?
I have an army field jacket that I borrowed (cough...stole...cough) from my dad in 1985. Still fits, go me!
18. Do you eat your vegetables?
Heck yeah young-un's....a healthy colon is a happy colon and something you don't take for granted as you slide into middle age. Besides they taste really nommy!
19. Are the privileges of adulthood worth the responsibilities?
I could reply with some amazingly profound philosophical answer here but the truth is I know quite a few folks who are chronologically considered adults but are in no way what I would call responsible (and they now have kids).
The humorous/sarcastic answer is NO. Being able to vote, drive a car, drink, set my own curfews, buy/read/watch/eat/wear what I choose do not begin to make up for the fact that once you reach the glorious and coveted state of 'adulthood' you learn the dirty little secret that comes with it: NOW YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR EVERYTHING YOURSELF!!!! SUCKERS!!!!! I understand now why my parents seemed so stressed out and grumpy all the time when I was a child.
But seriously, for all its hassles and tribulations (mortgage, doctor bills and automotive repair costs)I enjoy my life more as a middle-aged adult than I ever did when I was younger. As a young adult I spent too much time worrying about what others thought I should be. Now I am who I am and the world can like me or not as they choose. I love my SO/friends and they love me. It is more than enough!
20. Do you feel like an adult?
Frick no, lol! I'm 47 and in my brain I still feel like I'm in my early 20s. Though some days my body tells me it really is 120 years old!
21. Is youth wasted on the young?
Sometimes I think so...only because I remember all the inconsequential things I obsessed about when I was young. If I could go back in time I'd tell my 18 year old self to just relax....that in ten years what your hair or clothes looked like, what cliques you hung out with or fads you glommed on to will not matter at all or define you as a person.
As for my present self, I would almost give a limb to be able to lie down and take a nap in the middle of the day like I was forced to when I was a child!
Hope you enjoyed reading this & it wasn't a total time waster.
IFC Recap
Posted 11 years agoAnother Indyfurcon has come and gone and a splendid time was had all the way around. Got my cupcakes (mucho noms!)....got my peach daiquiri (very mucho noms!) and had lots of furry fun. So, to break down my weekend:
THURS: got started late and didn't arrive at the Sheraton until around 6 p.m. Unloaded waaaay too much baggage for two people (but we brought 3 fursuits with us, so what can we say?) and popped down to registration to get our super-sponsor badges and drop off donations for the charity auction. Loved the s-sponsor gift this year, a beautiful leather-bound journal/sketchbook! Unpacked and prepped our fursonalities to do some suiting at opening ceremonies on Friday, had dinner and crashed like the over-worked, tired graymuzzles we are...lol!
FRI: Once again enjoyed the Sheraton's amazing breakfast buffet. The fresh fruit (blackberries & raspberries especially) was wonderful! Got suited up as Liszt 'Captain Hook' and Bo'sun Smee the wolverine for opening ceremonies. Made a quick run for last minute supplies then went straight into the late afternoon panel line up: 4pm Improv Workshop hosted by Alkali. 5pm 3 Headed Monster-stand up sets by Xander, Pandez & Alkali and we were in stitches....bravo gentlemen! We went for a late lunch/early supper and called it an evening to rest up for Saturday.
SAT: Brekkie noms once more and went to Kage's 'Convention War Stories' at noon. My respect for the folks who put on conventions for us fans has always been high but I am amazed that anyone is crazy/dedicated enough to actually do it! Thank you Uncle Kage and all the fantastic people who organize and run furcons, we appreciate it very much! Back to the room to change & grab my props and laptop in anticipation of leading my first panel for Indyfurcon: 'Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Coyote?!....Er Fox?'
2pm: Panel time! Let me pause here and interject that in my career, I am a teaching naturalist. Presenting programs on wildlife is a big part of my job and to be able to mix my business with one of my hobbies was lots of fun. I had about ten people attend (less than I was hoping for but I'm glad I didn't get skunked, lol) and everyone seemed to have a good time. Obviously I couldn't bring any live animals with me but I did have my teaching collection of fox, coyote & wolf pelts as well as skulls to show.
I was glad to have the chance to teach and if any IFC staff happen to read this, I would love to offer another natural history panel for future cons. If you receive any feedback, pro or con, and don't mind sharing I'd like to know what folks thought.
Also: to the conger I spoke to before the panel about working in the natural history field: GO FOR IT! I always enjoy talking shop with someone who has a genuine passion for wildlife biology.
Missed the fursuit parade for the first time in 4 years of IFC attendance but I'm not too disappointed (teaching was a great trade off instead).
Schlepped all my props & computer back to the room, changed & opted to forgo 'Furrywood Squares' to get a late lunch instead. Back at 5pm for 2 Gryphon's show, then straight into Uncle Kage's Story Hour at 6pm and Family Feud at 8pm.
Stayed after for 'I Comedy Better When I've Had a Few' charity show at 9pm then these two graymuzzles called it a night.
SUN: Slept in (and heavens did we need it!), late brekkies then enjoyed the Furry Variety Show at noon. Back to the room to change into Arlo as 'Grandma In Wolf's Clothing' to attend the charity auction. Didn't take anything home but I had a wonderful time bidding on & heckling with the person who won a very beautiful Halloween quilt. In retrospect, when I was outbid I should have said my Social Security check wouldn't stretch that far.....ah hindsight, your 20/20 goodness is a bane indeed, lol.
Sadly, I got turned around on my program times & missed the Cards vs. Humanity charity event but we made it to closing ceremonies and lazed around the rest of the evening.
MON: headed out from our well-deserved break and back to reality but thoroughly enjoyed the weekend.
PROS: I've said it many times before & I'll say it again, Indyfurcon is a GREAT con! We consider it our 'home furcon' and only extreme catastrophe would keep us away (you guys should know, you already have our $$ for next year's attendance). The staff is friendly, dedicated and does everything in their power to make sure we all have a fantastic time. We love you for it guys and gals!
3 Headed Monster panel: Xander, Pandez & Alkali all were terrific (what level of niceness are you?!)
Furry Dance Competition: I am so happy that IFC has one and that it went so well that it should be back on the docket for 2015. My goal? to take the music edit I made and actually rehearse enough to do the 1:45 routine next year. Yes young un's, graymuzzles can dance!
Getting to teach. I had a blast plying my trade at the con and I hope to do so again.
The new venue next year. I love the Sheraton....the staff has always been friendly & helpful but the pics from the Marriott look fantastic (I'm already planning fursuit pic layout in the garden/gazebo area).
CONS: Really the only drawback was the tough choices I had to make on what to attend/skip. There were multiple time slots that overlapped w/programming and the programming tracks this year were wonderful, just like always. One of these years I will actually make it to the fursuit games (grin). Part of this was on me as I chose to offer a panel but it was so worth it.
So to wrap up, thanks again to the great staff & volunteers of IFC. Many thanks as well to the Dorsai for keeping us safe and sound. Hope everyone had as great a time as we did and that you're all safely back home.
Oh, and if anyone has pics of Captain Hook the lion, Wolverine pirate Smee or Grandma Arlo please point me to them! Thanks much!!
THURS: got started late and didn't arrive at the Sheraton until around 6 p.m. Unloaded waaaay too much baggage for two people (but we brought 3 fursuits with us, so what can we say?) and popped down to registration to get our super-sponsor badges and drop off donations for the charity auction. Loved the s-sponsor gift this year, a beautiful leather-bound journal/sketchbook! Unpacked and prepped our fursonalities to do some suiting at opening ceremonies on Friday, had dinner and crashed like the over-worked, tired graymuzzles we are...lol!
FRI: Once again enjoyed the Sheraton's amazing breakfast buffet. The fresh fruit (blackberries & raspberries especially) was wonderful! Got suited up as Liszt 'Captain Hook' and Bo'sun Smee the wolverine for opening ceremonies. Made a quick run for last minute supplies then went straight into the late afternoon panel line up: 4pm Improv Workshop hosted by Alkali. 5pm 3 Headed Monster-stand up sets by Xander, Pandez & Alkali and we were in stitches....bravo gentlemen! We went for a late lunch/early supper and called it an evening to rest up for Saturday.
SAT: Brekkie noms once more and went to Kage's 'Convention War Stories' at noon. My respect for the folks who put on conventions for us fans has always been high but I am amazed that anyone is crazy/dedicated enough to actually do it! Thank you Uncle Kage and all the fantastic people who organize and run furcons, we appreciate it very much! Back to the room to change & grab my props and laptop in anticipation of leading my first panel for Indyfurcon: 'Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Coyote?!....Er Fox?'
2pm: Panel time! Let me pause here and interject that in my career, I am a teaching naturalist. Presenting programs on wildlife is a big part of my job and to be able to mix my business with one of my hobbies was lots of fun. I had about ten people attend (less than I was hoping for but I'm glad I didn't get skunked, lol) and everyone seemed to have a good time. Obviously I couldn't bring any live animals with me but I did have my teaching collection of fox, coyote & wolf pelts as well as skulls to show.
I was glad to have the chance to teach and if any IFC staff happen to read this, I would love to offer another natural history panel for future cons. If you receive any feedback, pro or con, and don't mind sharing I'd like to know what folks thought.
Also: to the conger I spoke to before the panel about working in the natural history field: GO FOR IT! I always enjoy talking shop with someone who has a genuine passion for wildlife biology.
Missed the fursuit parade for the first time in 4 years of IFC attendance but I'm not too disappointed (teaching was a great trade off instead).
Schlepped all my props & computer back to the room, changed & opted to forgo 'Furrywood Squares' to get a late lunch instead. Back at 5pm for 2 Gryphon's show, then straight into Uncle Kage's Story Hour at 6pm and Family Feud at 8pm.
Stayed after for 'I Comedy Better When I've Had a Few' charity show at 9pm then these two graymuzzles called it a night.
SUN: Slept in (and heavens did we need it!), late brekkies then enjoyed the Furry Variety Show at noon. Back to the room to change into Arlo as 'Grandma In Wolf's Clothing' to attend the charity auction. Didn't take anything home but I had a wonderful time bidding on & heckling with the person who won a very beautiful Halloween quilt. In retrospect, when I was outbid I should have said my Social Security check wouldn't stretch that far.....ah hindsight, your 20/20 goodness is a bane indeed, lol.
Sadly, I got turned around on my program times & missed the Cards vs. Humanity charity event but we made it to closing ceremonies and lazed around the rest of the evening.
MON: headed out from our well-deserved break and back to reality but thoroughly enjoyed the weekend.
PROS: I've said it many times before & I'll say it again, Indyfurcon is a GREAT con! We consider it our 'home furcon' and only extreme catastrophe would keep us away (you guys should know, you already have our $$ for next year's attendance). The staff is friendly, dedicated and does everything in their power to make sure we all have a fantastic time. We love you for it guys and gals!
3 Headed Monster panel: Xander, Pandez & Alkali all were terrific (what level of niceness are you?!)
Furry Dance Competition: I am so happy that IFC has one and that it went so well that it should be back on the docket for 2015. My goal? to take the music edit I made and actually rehearse enough to do the 1:45 routine next year. Yes young un's, graymuzzles can dance!
Getting to teach. I had a blast plying my trade at the con and I hope to do so again.
The new venue next year. I love the Sheraton....the staff has always been friendly & helpful but the pics from the Marriott look fantastic (I'm already planning fursuit pic layout in the garden/gazebo area).
CONS: Really the only drawback was the tough choices I had to make on what to attend/skip. There were multiple time slots that overlapped w/programming and the programming tracks this year were wonderful, just like always. One of these years I will actually make it to the fursuit games (grin). Part of this was on me as I chose to offer a panel but it was so worth it.
So to wrap up, thanks again to the great staff & volunteers of IFC. Many thanks as well to the Dorsai for keeping us safe and sound. Hope everyone had as great a time as we did and that you're all safely back home.
Oh, and if anyone has pics of Captain Hook the lion, Wolverine pirate Smee or Grandma Arlo please point me to them! Thanks much!!
IFC 2014 NEXT WEEK!
Posted 11 years agocan I get a YEY-YAH?!
Just got through looking over the con schedule (so far) and am happily jotting down notes for panels/events I want to go to. Each year it gets better and better and my only problem is trying to decide between things at a few time slots.
Arlo's storybook villain accessories are ready to go (heh, heh, heh) and my SO has decided to deck out his partial in theme appropriate garb so be on the look out for the wolf and the lion out to have some fun. We are soooooo looking forward to our mini-vacation. As I've mentioned in a previous journal, 2014 has been the year of unexpected expenses, work issues, home issues and just general headaches (mostly minor, a couple of them major but added altogether just equal "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH ALREADY!!!").
It is time for us to have some fun and what fun (and CUPCAKES) will be had at IFC! I need frivolity, fursuiting and tall, cold peach daquiri (in that order), lol!
Hope everyone attending has a safe trip to Indy & we look forward to seeing all of you there!
Just got through looking over the con schedule (so far) and am happily jotting down notes for panels/events I want to go to. Each year it gets better and better and my only problem is trying to decide between things at a few time slots.
Arlo's storybook villain accessories are ready to go (heh, heh, heh) and my SO has decided to deck out his partial in theme appropriate garb so be on the look out for the wolf and the lion out to have some fun. We are soooooo looking forward to our mini-vacation. As I've mentioned in a previous journal, 2014 has been the year of unexpected expenses, work issues, home issues and just general headaches (mostly minor, a couple of them major but added altogether just equal "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH ALREADY!!!").
It is time for us to have some fun and what fun (and CUPCAKES) will be had at IFC! I need frivolity, fursuiting and tall, cold peach daquiri (in that order), lol!
Hope everyone attending has a safe trip to Indy & we look forward to seeing all of you there!
Indyfurcon Meme
Posted 11 years agoI'm a memie...just not a BLUE memie...
Where are you staying?
Con hotel (Sheraton)
What day are you getting there?
Hopefully not too late Thur.
Who will you be rooming with?
--names have been withheld to protect the innocent
Who will you hang out with during the convention?
My SO. We're very friendly so please feel free to say 'hi' and chat.
Are there any panels you might be attending?
as many as I can (can't wait to see the line up)
Are you attending any stage or public performances?
see above (wash, rinse, repeat)
Will you be suiting?
as much as I possibly can!
Which suit(s) will you be bringing?
Arlo of course (I never travel without him!) and Guhstav my wolverine partial
How can I find you?
Look for the black & gray wolf wearing a purple bandana or sparkly green bowtie (or cross-dressing as Grandma)!
How old are you?
old enough to know better (at least that's what everyone keeps telling me). 46
How tall are you?
5' 7"
Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Gloriously, happily, disgustingly in love & taken for life (this sickeningly sweet moment of sentiment was brought to you by the Hallmark Channel), lol but thanks for asking.
Can I talk to you?
I always enjoy talking books, theatre, classic movies, fursuiting....just about anything really so sure. If I politely decline then I'm probably late for a panel, show or the fursuit parade.
Can I touch you?
In suit, requests for hugs from folks not holding Cheetos, coffee, ice cream bars or etc. are welcome. Out of suit, polite hugs if I know you.
Can I visit your room?
The only time we'll be in there is when we're asleep! Dese old graymuzzles ain't what they used to be, lol!
Can I buy you drinks?
One if we're at the hotel bar and I feel comfortable.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs while I'm fursuiting (please ask first though, sneak attack hugs do not go over well). Out of fursuit, see 'Can I Touch You?' reply above.
Are you nice?
We are very nice.
How long are you going?
Until the last storybook villain has been vanquished or converted to goodness by fluffy fursuit hugs!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Tap on the shoulder or arm or shout 'Arlo!' if I'm in suit. If out of suit just come up & say hi!
Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Fursuiting, running to panels/shows, in the Dealer's Den buying waaaay too much stuff!
What/where will you be eating?
Room or hotel restaurant mostly. Except for the required cupcake run...mmmmmmmmm
Can I come with you for food/fun etc?
if you see us in the hotel restaurant and want to say hi, then by all means (if it is at breakfast though, be warned you might just get bleary eyed grunts until we've had our morning coffee lol).
Can I take your picture?
While I'm in suit, you bet your sweet bippy! Out of suit, please ask first.
What’s your goal for the con this year?
To relax, enjoy some downtime and just have some fun. It's been a long year so far and my SO & I are ready to kick back and let our fur down.
Where are you staying?
Con hotel (Sheraton)
What day are you getting there?
Hopefully not too late Thur.
Who will you be rooming with?
--names have been withheld to protect the innocent
Who will you hang out with during the convention?
My SO. We're very friendly so please feel free to say 'hi' and chat.
Are there any panels you might be attending?
as many as I can (can't wait to see the line up)
Are you attending any stage or public performances?
see above (wash, rinse, repeat)
Will you be suiting?
as much as I possibly can!
Which suit(s) will you be bringing?
Arlo of course (I never travel without him!) and Guhstav my wolverine partial
How can I find you?
Look for the black & gray wolf wearing a purple bandana or sparkly green bowtie (or cross-dressing as Grandma)!
How old are you?
old enough to know better (at least that's what everyone keeps telling me). 46
How tall are you?
5' 7"
Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Gloriously, happily, disgustingly in love & taken for life (this sickeningly sweet moment of sentiment was brought to you by the Hallmark Channel), lol but thanks for asking.
Can I talk to you?
I always enjoy talking books, theatre, classic movies, fursuiting....just about anything really so sure. If I politely decline then I'm probably late for a panel, show or the fursuit parade.
Can I touch you?
In suit, requests for hugs from folks not holding Cheetos, coffee, ice cream bars or etc. are welcome. Out of suit, polite hugs if I know you.
Can I visit your room?
The only time we'll be in there is when we're asleep! Dese old graymuzzles ain't what they used to be, lol!
Can I buy you drinks?
One if we're at the hotel bar and I feel comfortable.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs while I'm fursuiting (please ask first though, sneak attack hugs do not go over well). Out of fursuit, see 'Can I Touch You?' reply above.
Are you nice?
We are very nice.
How long are you going?
Until the last storybook villain has been vanquished or converted to goodness by fluffy fursuit hugs!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Tap on the shoulder or arm or shout 'Arlo!' if I'm in suit. If out of suit just come up & say hi!
Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Fursuiting, running to panels/shows, in the Dealer's Den buying waaaay too much stuff!
What/where will you be eating?
Room or hotel restaurant mostly. Except for the required cupcake run...mmmmmmmmm
Can I come with you for food/fun etc?
if you see us in the hotel restaurant and want to say hi, then by all means (if it is at breakfast though, be warned you might just get bleary eyed grunts until we've had our morning coffee lol).
Can I take your picture?
While I'm in suit, you bet your sweet bippy! Out of suit, please ask first.
What’s your goal for the con this year?
To relax, enjoy some downtime and just have some fun. It's been a long year so far and my SO & I are ready to kick back and let our fur down.
IFC 2014 Means......
Posted 11 years agotime to get more goodies from 'The Flying Cupcake' bakery near the con hotel!
As if attending IFC isn't wonderful enough, adding gourmet, nommy cupcakes to the equation just puts the whole experience into this fur's realm of nirvana. If you are going to Indyfurcon, have yet to try 'The Flying Cupcake's' offerings and would like to, just ask the concierge to give you directions. All the staff spoke to from the front desk to the valet attendant raved about 'em.
MMMMMMM......cupcakes........ can't wait!
As if attending IFC isn't wonderful enough, adding gourmet, nommy cupcakes to the equation just puts the whole experience into this fur's realm of nirvana. If you are going to Indyfurcon, have yet to try 'The Flying Cupcake's' offerings and would like to, just ask the concierge to give you directions. All the staff spoke to from the front desk to the valet attendant raved about 'em.
MMMMMMM......cupcakes........ can't wait!
IFC 2014 Just Around the Corner!
Posted 11 years agoWoot!
As always, the SO & I are looking forward to our upcoming visit to IndyFurCon. Any of my followers or FA browsers who read this and are able to attend and are maybe on the fence about doing so: GO REGISTER NOW!!!
Why the highly emphatic and totally unsolicited plug you might ask? Simply put IFC is a great con. The staff, from the chairman all the way down the line consistently put together a well-balanced and enjoyable experience for their attendees. Sadly, I was not an active member of the fandom/aware of IFC to attend its inaugural year but I've been to every one since then (3rd IFC for my better half, who is now thoroughly indoctrinated into the fandom, I'm happy to say.... BWAHAHAHAHA!) and they just keep getting better.
IFC may be a smaller con but the vibe is amazing and the venue intimate enough that everyone can get a good seat at the panels and performances. For me, that's a huge draw. Being a graymuzzle on the near side of 50 means I appreciate activities and social venues being 'close to hand'. It's also a very relaxed atmosphere to fursuit in (which is also a main con pastime for me). IFC was also my first con and was the perfect way for me to get my 'fandom feet wet'. I went solo that first time and had so much fun I convinced the SO to come with me the next year. He loved it so much that he's also become a fursuiter (and so the infection spreads, lol!)
If you see my wolfie self 'Arlo' around, please say hello (or my wolverine alter-ego 'Guhstav'!). I love to talk books, classic movies, natural history, performing/theatre anytime. Hope to see/meet/speak with many of you at the end of August!
To the IFC Staff & Volunteers: Thank you in advance for all of your hard work and dedication to IndyFurCon. Please know that your efforts are very much appreciated!
As always, the SO & I are looking forward to our upcoming visit to IndyFurCon. Any of my followers or FA browsers who read this and are able to attend and are maybe on the fence about doing so: GO REGISTER NOW!!!
Why the highly emphatic and totally unsolicited plug you might ask? Simply put IFC is a great con. The staff, from the chairman all the way down the line consistently put together a well-balanced and enjoyable experience for their attendees. Sadly, I was not an active member of the fandom/aware of IFC to attend its inaugural year but I've been to every one since then (3rd IFC for my better half, who is now thoroughly indoctrinated into the fandom, I'm happy to say.... BWAHAHAHAHA!) and they just keep getting better.
IFC may be a smaller con but the vibe is amazing and the venue intimate enough that everyone can get a good seat at the panels and performances. For me, that's a huge draw. Being a graymuzzle on the near side of 50 means I appreciate activities and social venues being 'close to hand'. It's also a very relaxed atmosphere to fursuit in (which is also a main con pastime for me). IFC was also my first con and was the perfect way for me to get my 'fandom feet wet'. I went solo that first time and had so much fun I convinced the SO to come with me the next year. He loved it so much that he's also become a fursuiter (and so the infection spreads, lol!)
If you see my wolfie self 'Arlo' around, please say hello (or my wolverine alter-ego 'Guhstav'!). I love to talk books, classic movies, natural history, performing/theatre anytime. Hope to see/meet/speak with many of you at the end of August!
To the IFC Staff & Volunteers: Thank you in advance for all of your hard work and dedication to IndyFurCon. Please know that your efforts are very much appreciated!
Help Request Pass Along.....
Posted 11 years agoHi All;
Re-posting this link to
DashaRhosenwyn 's journal post.
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5383424/
Help if you can, even if it is just with words of encouragement (or a re-post of this link!). Many of us have been in similar tight spots I'm sure and every little bit of support makes a difference.
Re-posting this link to
DashaRhosenwyn 's journal post.http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/5383424/
Help if you can, even if it is just with words of encouragement (or a re-post of this link!). Many of us have been in similar tight spots I'm sure and every little bit of support makes a difference.
New Year's Eve update
Posted 11 years agoWow....all I can say is just wow!
2013's New Year's Eve event was the best yet. Attendance was down slightly but everyone who came really enjoyed themselves. Arlo was recognized by returning families but there were a lot of new folks there who wanted to 'meet the wolf'! I gave out mardi-gras style colored beads, much to the amusement of my co-workers who were also there (I just shrugged & told them 'hey, Arlo's got bling...why not spread it around?!') Only downside: sore knees from all the up and down for hugs n' pics (but seriously, am I complaining?! NO WAY LOL!!)
Arlo's 'formal look' went over very well and I think I'll do it again (with a few tiny changeups) for 2014. Best adult interaction moment: I was mugging with a random group of people and adjusted my tie. One guy said, "I like the bowtie, bowties are cool." So I made a circle with my fingers and mimed a cylinder on my head and he burst out laughing and said "yeah, fezzes are cool too! This is a cool wolf!" De Whovians are everywhere :)!
About halfway through my first 45 minute set, a mom & dad came in with a little girl around 3 years old. I was being goofy with someone else at the moment & didn't notice them at first but the dad spotted me & set his daughter down in front of my station. She came right over and patted my arm, checking out my paws and gave me a quick hug. The mom was taking pictures left and right and both she and the girl's dad were over the moon.
I was happy that they were enjoying our interaction but a little surprised by how much the parents were making of it. At last the mom picked up her daughter and the dad came over to talk to me. He very sincerely thanked me and said "you don't realize how rare this is. She is autistic and doesn't interact with many things around her."
This is the single best moment I have ever had while in fursuit and I will never forget it.
2013's New Year's Eve event was the best yet. Attendance was down slightly but everyone who came really enjoyed themselves. Arlo was recognized by returning families but there were a lot of new folks there who wanted to 'meet the wolf'! I gave out mardi-gras style colored beads, much to the amusement of my co-workers who were also there (I just shrugged & told them 'hey, Arlo's got bling...why not spread it around?!') Only downside: sore knees from all the up and down for hugs n' pics (but seriously, am I complaining?! NO WAY LOL!!)
Arlo's 'formal look' went over very well and I think I'll do it again (with a few tiny changeups) for 2014. Best adult interaction moment: I was mugging with a random group of people and adjusted my tie. One guy said, "I like the bowtie, bowties are cool." So I made a circle with my fingers and mimed a cylinder on my head and he burst out laughing and said "yeah, fezzes are cool too! This is a cool wolf!" De Whovians are everywhere :)!
About halfway through my first 45 minute set, a mom & dad came in with a little girl around 3 years old. I was being goofy with someone else at the moment & didn't notice them at first but the dad spotted me & set his daughter down in front of my station. She came right over and patted my arm, checking out my paws and gave me a quick hug. The mom was taking pictures left and right and both she and the girl's dad were over the moon.
I was happy that they were enjoying our interaction but a little surprised by how much the parents were making of it. At last the mom picked up her daughter and the dad came over to talk to me. He very sincerely thanked me and said "you don't realize how rare this is. She is autistic and doesn't interact with many things around her."
This is the single best moment I have ever had while in fursuit and I will never forget it.
New Year's Eve Gig is Here Again!
Posted 11 years agoSo, for the third year in a row, I will be suiting as Arlo for a public event hosted by my workplace tonight. To mix things up a bit, Arlo will be sporting his green bowtie, vest and purple cuffs for a more 'formal' showing this evening. I always have some little trinket to pass out to the visitors, this year it's mardi gras style beads.
I've had so much fun doing this gig. It's great to have another venue to perform in and I have to admit, the fact that I get paid to do so is just icing on the cake.
Hope everyone on FA has a safe, fun and very Happy New Year!
I've had so much fun doing this gig. It's great to have another venue to perform in and I have to admit, the fact that I get paid to do so is just icing on the cake.
Hope everyone on FA has a safe, fun and very Happy New Year!
In Honor of the Holiday Season.....
Posted 12 years agoI have changed my icon to one of my other fursuit character Guhstav the wolverine. This wonderful illustration is courtesy of 
rowkey and thanks again for it and the one of Arlo, Ma'am! rowkey captured Guhstav's grumbly grumpiness at wearing a Santa hat perfectly!
Hope one and all manage a bit of peace and breathing room during this busy season (which it tends to be for all of us regardless of what celebration we participate in, or not as the case may be).
rowkey and thanks again for it and the one of Arlo, Ma'am! rowkey captured Guhstav's grumbly grumpiness at wearing a Santa hat perfectly!Hope one and all manage a bit of peace and breathing room during this busy season (which it tends to be for all of us regardless of what celebration we participate in, or not as the case may be).
Winter's On Its Way & What I'm Thankful For.......
Posted 12 years agoIn no particular order (lol)!
I'm very pleased to see the return of colder weather (summer was a scorching hot mess for us this year). I can always layer up & grab a heat pack if I'm feeling chilly but trying to beat the heat (at least for me) is a losing battle.
As for my blessings.....I'm thankful for my friends & family of course, my health, my sort of sanity (grin) and our current state of financial stability but there are a few things that on a shallower level I'm also very happy about.
One is the upcoming return engagement of Arlo at the end of year family event at my workplace. The staff in charge of the celebration has changed hands and I approached them explaining what I'd done for the event the past 2 years (with pics) and offered to perform as Arlo again if they wanted me to. The suggestion was greeted with a rousing 'YES!' and so I'll be stepping out as my wolfie fursona once more.
Again, this is a paid gig (at overtime rates no less) and to mix things up, I'll be wearing the 'formal' accessories I did for IFC (green vest & bowtie and purple cuffs w/cufflinks). I've loved being a part of this event and I'm really happy that Arlo's been so well received by everyone.
Another small blessing has been my writing. I have worked hard on honing my fiction writing skills (or attempted skills in any case) and feel that the quality of writing I'm churning out now has improved a bit. I forget who said that there's a lot of garbage you have to write out of your system in order to find the good stuff....the important thing is just to keep on writing. I feel like I've dumped most of the garbage and am now getting to some of the good stuff. Whether or not I'm brave enough to actually post any of my stories here remains to be seen. But you never know...lol!
And finally, my Zazzle shop. I've done fairly well on sales this year (not enough to quit my job & make a living on but some decent pocket money at least). I haven't been able to spend much time of late designing new products but I hope to over my downtime during Christmas week.
I hope everyone on FA and the fandom at large has a very safe and enjoyable holiday season. Although I still consider myself new to all this, I've enjoyed the experiences I've had, the folks I've met/spoken to at the few conventions I've been too and am thankful for how welcoming and friendly the fandom is on the whole. I'm very proud to be a part of it (and convert my SO to furry-ness as well)!
I'm very pleased to see the return of colder weather (summer was a scorching hot mess for us this year). I can always layer up & grab a heat pack if I'm feeling chilly but trying to beat the heat (at least for me) is a losing battle.
As for my blessings.....I'm thankful for my friends & family of course, my health, my sort of sanity (grin) and our current state of financial stability but there are a few things that on a shallower level I'm also very happy about.
One is the upcoming return engagement of Arlo at the end of year family event at my workplace. The staff in charge of the celebration has changed hands and I approached them explaining what I'd done for the event the past 2 years (with pics) and offered to perform as Arlo again if they wanted me to. The suggestion was greeted with a rousing 'YES!' and so I'll be stepping out as my wolfie fursona once more.
Again, this is a paid gig (at overtime rates no less) and to mix things up, I'll be wearing the 'formal' accessories I did for IFC (green vest & bowtie and purple cuffs w/cufflinks). I've loved being a part of this event and I'm really happy that Arlo's been so well received by everyone.
Another small blessing has been my writing. I have worked hard on honing my fiction writing skills (or attempted skills in any case) and feel that the quality of writing I'm churning out now has improved a bit. I forget who said that there's a lot of garbage you have to write out of your system in order to find the good stuff....the important thing is just to keep on writing. I feel like I've dumped most of the garbage and am now getting to some of the good stuff. Whether or not I'm brave enough to actually post any of my stories here remains to be seen. But you never know...lol!
And finally, my Zazzle shop. I've done fairly well on sales this year (not enough to quit my job & make a living on but some decent pocket money at least). I haven't been able to spend much time of late designing new products but I hope to over my downtime during Christmas week.
I hope everyone on FA and the fandom at large has a very safe and enjoyable holiday season. Although I still consider myself new to all this, I've enjoyed the experiences I've had, the folks I've met/spoken to at the few conventions I've been too and am thankful for how welcoming and friendly the fandom is on the whole. I'm very proud to be a part of it (and convert my SO to furry-ness as well)!
IFC 2013 'Back To School' Report!
Posted 12 years agoWell, we are home from IFC and as per usual, had a FANTASTIC time! For the sake of simplicity, I'll go day by day.
Thurs. 8/8: arrived at the Keystone Sheraton & checked in. I have to admit I felt like we should have had a Hollywood entourage due to the amount of luggage we schlepped in (just two people but 3 fursuits, clothes, toiletries, props & the laptop...it was ridiculous, all that was missing were paparazzi lol!). Got our Supersponsor badges that evening, had dinner in and unpacked & prepped for Friday.
Fri. 8/9: Made serious dents in the Sheraton's breakfast buffet (which is wonderful, BTW) & then spent time brushing out Arlo's suit. Down to opening ceremonies at noon, derped around a bit beforehand as we brought giant inflatable pencils with us (back to school theme). Upstairs to shower & change before heading back down to catch Uncle Kage's 'Can't We All Get Along?' panel. Was a great look at the us vs. them attitudes that different fandoms as well as society in general can have/perpetuate.
NOTE: Let me just stop here & say that Pandez's standup is excellent. His routine of what is a typical furry (complete with impersonations) had us in stitches! Pandez, if you read this: BRAVO!
We checked out the art show & dealer's den (at full capacity this year!) before getting a late lunch/early dinner. Caught Uncle Kage's Story Hour (and a half) then decided to call it an early night. Spent quite some time getting both Guhstav's suit and my SO's fursuit ready for the parade on Saturday.
Sat. 8/10: Breakfast at the hotel again & then got everything sorted out, on and attached for the fursuit parade at 1pm. This was Guhstav the wolverine's first outing at IFC & my SO fursuited as Liszt the lion. We wore doctoral graduate robes & tams & carried 'Doctor of Derpology' diplomas. Folks seemed to like us (we got laughs at any rate, whether at us or WITH us matters not when you're in fursuit though, lol) and then we went to the fursuit photo shoot afterwards.
Showered, changed, late lunch & rest up before attending the live recording of the Dragget Show with Xander and Alkali. If you were at IFC & didn't attend this you REALLY missed out. Spiderman (Draggor) was also there, along with Pandez & Chairman Roxas dropping in. Absolutely inappropriate in every possible way and one of the most hilarious hours I've ever experienced! Placed a bid on some art & skipped over to 2 Gryphon's show (great as usual).
Sun. 8/11: Slept in & then down for the Charity Auction. Couldn't resist the quilt or the honey-badger plushie. Dropped off our purchases & then caught 2's Podcasting Panel (lots of useful information, thank you 2!). Decided to hit Don Pablo's for a late lunch and found the most amazing cupcake vendor in the same shopping center (see pic in my gallery!!!)....NOMS!!!! Went to Closing Ceremonies & rested up before getting Arlo all gussied up for the Dead Dog dance. I made tuxedo cuffs & a suit collar w/bowtie to match his green formal vest. Topped it off with a gold crown & my wolf fursuit was ready to go to the dance as the Homecoming King! (see gallery pic). Back to the room to recuperate, pack a bit & then fall into a stupor of exhaustion (lol).
Mon. 8/12: Slept IN.....zzzzzzzz. Finished packing & hit the road for home. Very light traffic the whole way & made great time.
This year's IFC was fantastic all the way around but a few specific shout-outs:
Pandez: Two thumbs up for your programming line up, Sir! Well done. The offerings were great & still managed to include some 'downtime' for food consumption and rests. Can't wait to see what next year brings!
Liedt: The Sponsor's Suite was wonderful! Well-organized, well-stocked and a great variety of food/drinks/snacks. The hot food service was a life-saver for lunch & we can't speak highly enough about how friendly the volunteers (and you of course) were. Great job and a huge THANK YOU to all of you!
Ryn, ExRev, Blake & Alkali: for making us feel welcome and like part of the family. As relative 'newbs' to the official fandom, we really appreciate it.
Roxas Panda: for being willing (and insane enough) to undertake the post of Chairman.
And to the whole staff: Tora, Dasha, Storm Griffin, Samii, Linnaeus, Anubis, Christofur, Firr, Speedy, Xander, all the volunteers, Go-Furs and of course the Dorsai.
IFC is the wonderful convention it is because of each & every one of you and your dedication to making sure all attendees have the best weekend we possibly can. Will we be back next year? Heck YEAH!!!
Extra Shout Out to the Staff of the Sheraton Hotel: I cannot stress enough how polite and helpful the hotel employees were. I hope IFC is able to remain at this venue for some time to come (unless of course it grows too large.....just hope it never loses it's smaller-con vibe, grin).
Once again thanks to everyone involved with making IFC possible: You are THE BEST!
Thurs. 8/8: arrived at the Keystone Sheraton & checked in. I have to admit I felt like we should have had a Hollywood entourage due to the amount of luggage we schlepped in (just two people but 3 fursuits, clothes, toiletries, props & the laptop...it was ridiculous, all that was missing were paparazzi lol!). Got our Supersponsor badges that evening, had dinner in and unpacked & prepped for Friday.
Fri. 8/9: Made serious dents in the Sheraton's breakfast buffet (which is wonderful, BTW) & then spent time brushing out Arlo's suit. Down to opening ceremonies at noon, derped around a bit beforehand as we brought giant inflatable pencils with us (back to school theme). Upstairs to shower & change before heading back down to catch Uncle Kage's 'Can't We All Get Along?' panel. Was a great look at the us vs. them attitudes that different fandoms as well as society in general can have/perpetuate.
NOTE: Let me just stop here & say that Pandez's standup is excellent. His routine of what is a typical furry (complete with impersonations) had us in stitches! Pandez, if you read this: BRAVO!
We checked out the art show & dealer's den (at full capacity this year!) before getting a late lunch/early dinner. Caught Uncle Kage's Story Hour (and a half) then decided to call it an early night. Spent quite some time getting both Guhstav's suit and my SO's fursuit ready for the parade on Saturday.
Sat. 8/10: Breakfast at the hotel again & then got everything sorted out, on and attached for the fursuit parade at 1pm. This was Guhstav the wolverine's first outing at IFC & my SO fursuited as Liszt the lion. We wore doctoral graduate robes & tams & carried 'Doctor of Derpology' diplomas. Folks seemed to like us (we got laughs at any rate, whether at us or WITH us matters not when you're in fursuit though, lol) and then we went to the fursuit photo shoot afterwards.
Showered, changed, late lunch & rest up before attending the live recording of the Dragget Show with Xander and Alkali. If you were at IFC & didn't attend this you REALLY missed out. Spiderman (Draggor) was also there, along with Pandez & Chairman Roxas dropping in. Absolutely inappropriate in every possible way and one of the most hilarious hours I've ever experienced! Placed a bid on some art & skipped over to 2 Gryphon's show (great as usual).
Sun. 8/11: Slept in & then down for the Charity Auction. Couldn't resist the quilt or the honey-badger plushie. Dropped off our purchases & then caught 2's Podcasting Panel (lots of useful information, thank you 2!). Decided to hit Don Pablo's for a late lunch and found the most amazing cupcake vendor in the same shopping center (see pic in my gallery!!!)....NOMS!!!! Went to Closing Ceremonies & rested up before getting Arlo all gussied up for the Dead Dog dance. I made tuxedo cuffs & a suit collar w/bowtie to match his green formal vest. Topped it off with a gold crown & my wolf fursuit was ready to go to the dance as the Homecoming King! (see gallery pic). Back to the room to recuperate, pack a bit & then fall into a stupor of exhaustion (lol).
Mon. 8/12: Slept IN.....zzzzzzzz. Finished packing & hit the road for home. Very light traffic the whole way & made great time.
This year's IFC was fantastic all the way around but a few specific shout-outs:
Pandez: Two thumbs up for your programming line up, Sir! Well done. The offerings were great & still managed to include some 'downtime' for food consumption and rests. Can't wait to see what next year brings!
Liedt: The Sponsor's Suite was wonderful! Well-organized, well-stocked and a great variety of food/drinks/snacks. The hot food service was a life-saver for lunch & we can't speak highly enough about how friendly the volunteers (and you of course) were. Great job and a huge THANK YOU to all of you!
Ryn, ExRev, Blake & Alkali: for making us feel welcome and like part of the family. As relative 'newbs' to the official fandom, we really appreciate it.
Roxas Panda: for being willing (and insane enough) to undertake the post of Chairman.
And to the whole staff: Tora, Dasha, Storm Griffin, Samii, Linnaeus, Anubis, Christofur, Firr, Speedy, Xander, all the volunteers, Go-Furs and of course the Dorsai.
IFC is the wonderful convention it is because of each & every one of you and your dedication to making sure all attendees have the best weekend we possibly can. Will we be back next year? Heck YEAH!!!
Extra Shout Out to the Staff of the Sheraton Hotel: I cannot stress enough how polite and helpful the hotel employees were. I hope IFC is able to remain at this venue for some time to come (unless of course it grows too large.....just hope it never loses it's smaller-con vibe, grin).
Once again thanks to everyone involved with making IFC possible: You are THE BEST!
IFC Next Week!
Posted 12 years agoAhhh......it's almost time! The schedule looks great, my SO & I have our fursuits (although with the 'Back to School' theme, my fursuit props require their own suitcase, lol) ready & I can't wait to have some fun to off-set all the work-related drama that has been happening of late. IFC is just the ticket!
This will be my third year attending (SO's second) & it is hands down my favorite con. The vibe is wonderful, the schedule line up this year looks great and having the Sheraton venue again will be amazing (love the layout & the hotel restaurant, most excellent breakfast noms!)
Hope to see many of you there & wherever you come from, travel safe!
NOTE TO THE IFC STAFF: Thanks again in advance for all your hard work, sweat, tears and trouble-shooting, you are all appreciated!!
This will be my third year attending (SO's second) & it is hands down my favorite con. The vibe is wonderful, the schedule line up this year looks great and having the Sheraton venue again will be amazing (love the layout & the hotel restaurant, most excellent breakfast noms!)
Hope to see many of you there & wherever you come from, travel safe!
NOTE TO THE IFC STAFF: Thanks again in advance for all your hard work, sweat, tears and trouble-shooting, you are all appreciated!!
IFC Meme
Posted 12 years agoHow do you want to be addressed?
Kelly or if I'm in suit either Arlo or Guhstav (goo-stahv)
Age?
45
What do you look like?
Either a 6 ft. tall, black & gray wolf (wearing a cargo vest or a green bowtie and matching vest...depending upon the situation, lol), or a 5'9" wolverine.
Where/how can I find you?
Here on FA is best
Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Happily married & taken thanks
How are you getting there?
Driving in
What hotel are you staying at?
At the Con hotel
Which days will you be attending?
For the whole weekend
What is one thing you will be doing?
Fursuiting and general derping around
Do you draw?
Sometimes, but not very well
What are your limits to drawing?
Many! If I do it's rated G only
Do you do requests?
No
Do you do trades?
No
Do you do commissions?
Good lord, I'd never dream of charging for my scribbles...lol
Will you have prints, CDs, or merchandise?
No but I'll probably hand out trinkets while I'm fursuiting/in the parade
Will you have Art in the Art Show?
No
Can I draw you/your fursona?
As long as it is G rated and you don't ask me for money unless I formally commission you
Are you doing the artist ally?
No
Who will you be with?
My spouse and any new friends I happen to make
What is your main purpose for attending?
It's a con close to home, it's fun (my favorite con!) and FURSUITING!!
Can I talk to you?
If you like, I love to talk theatre, performing, books and classic movies
Can I take pictures with/of you?
In suit yes (as long as I'm not headless)
Are you bringing your sketchbook?
Don't have one
Can I touch/hug/cuddle you?
If I'm in suit and you ask nicely, then yes to hugs. I only cuddle my SO
Can I hang out with you?
I'll probably be dashing from one panel to another but if I'm goofing around in suit then feel free.
Can I buy you food/a drink?
I don't know when/where the spouse & I will be eating/drinking, lol
Do you go to parties?
Not usually
Do you dance?
I love grooving to the oldies, mostly in fursuit
Do you (own a) fursuit/costume?
Yes, two: Arlo T. Wolf and Guhstav the wolverine. My SO is Liszt the lion (black w/gray mane & markings)
What is the best way to reach you?
Here on FA
Anything else?
I like music, theatre, classic films, fursuiting, reading and wildlife. We'd love to meet/get to know more local graymuzzles in the fandom too, so if you see us walking around please stop me and say 'hi'!
Kelly or if I'm in suit either Arlo or Guhstav (goo-stahv)
Age?
45
What do you look like?
Either a 6 ft. tall, black & gray wolf (wearing a cargo vest or a green bowtie and matching vest...depending upon the situation, lol), or a 5'9" wolverine.
Where/how can I find you?
Here on FA is best
Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Happily married & taken thanks
How are you getting there?
Driving in
What hotel are you staying at?
At the Con hotel
Which days will you be attending?
For the whole weekend
What is one thing you will be doing?
Fursuiting and general derping around
Do you draw?
Sometimes, but not very well
What are your limits to drawing?
Many! If I do it's rated G only
Do you do requests?
No
Do you do trades?
No
Do you do commissions?
Good lord, I'd never dream of charging for my scribbles...lol
Will you have prints, CDs, or merchandise?
No but I'll probably hand out trinkets while I'm fursuiting/in the parade
Will you have Art in the Art Show?
No
Can I draw you/your fursona?
As long as it is G rated and you don't ask me for money unless I formally commission you
Are you doing the artist ally?
No
Who will you be with?
My spouse and any new friends I happen to make
What is your main purpose for attending?
It's a con close to home, it's fun (my favorite con!) and FURSUITING!!
Can I talk to you?
If you like, I love to talk theatre, performing, books and classic movies
Can I take pictures with/of you?
In suit yes (as long as I'm not headless)
Are you bringing your sketchbook?
Don't have one
Can I touch/hug/cuddle you?
If I'm in suit and you ask nicely, then yes to hugs. I only cuddle my SO
Can I hang out with you?
I'll probably be dashing from one panel to another but if I'm goofing around in suit then feel free.
Can I buy you food/a drink?
I don't know when/where the spouse & I will be eating/drinking, lol
Do you go to parties?
Not usually
Do you dance?
I love grooving to the oldies, mostly in fursuit
Do you (own a) fursuit/costume?
Yes, two: Arlo T. Wolf and Guhstav the wolverine. My SO is Liszt the lion (black w/gray mane & markings)
What is the best way to reach you?
Here on FA
Anything else?
I like music, theatre, classic films, fursuiting, reading and wildlife. We'd love to meet/get to know more local graymuzzles in the fandom too, so if you see us walking around please stop me and say 'hi'!
IFC Is Almost Here!
Posted 12 years agoAh! My third IndyFurCon is getting closer and closer! I can't wait. IFC was my first con and will always be my favorite. I love the vibe of a smaller con. You get to see the events/GOHs up close and personal, the interactions between congoers is more relaxed and, at least for a graymuzzle like myself, the snippets of 'downtime' that the con staff has included in the daily schedule in the past allows time for noms, putting my fursuit feet up and recharging my batteries for more panels/dances/etc!
If any of you out there are toying with the idea of going....DO IT!! You won't regret it. I have found all the IFC staff I've interacted with to be friendly, helpful and incredibly patient with a relative newb to the fandom. Plus the Sheraton hotel that the con is returning to this year is great. Everything is spread out on one floor, is easy to find/get to and let me just say the breakfast buffet in the hotel restaurant is TOP NOTCH!! I can't wait for my vacation as me & the SO anticipate having a blast.
Plus, Guhstav will be making his IFC debut this year, look for the wolverine and say 'hi'!
And to Roxas, Pandez, Tora and the whole IFC staff: THANK YOU in advance and hang in there! Your hard work is very much appreciated!!
If any of you out there are toying with the idea of going....DO IT!! You won't regret it. I have found all the IFC staff I've interacted with to be friendly, helpful and incredibly patient with a relative newb to the fandom. Plus the Sheraton hotel that the con is returning to this year is great. Everything is spread out on one floor, is easy to find/get to and let me just say the breakfast buffet in the hotel restaurant is TOP NOTCH!! I can't wait for my vacation as me & the SO anticipate having a blast.
Plus, Guhstav will be making his IFC debut this year, look for the wolverine and say 'hi'!
And to Roxas, Pandez, Tora and the whole IFC staff: THANK YOU in advance and hang in there! Your hard work is very much appreciated!!
IFC 2012 Re-Cap!
Posted 13 years agoWhat a great weekend all around! First and foremost because I conned..um, I mean persuaded my SO to accompany me this year (yay, built in fursuit handler slash assistant). Despite my fears that my partner would NOT have as much fun as I would be having, THEY DID!!! In fact, while I was off doing a few things on my own, they mixed/mingled and had a great time. Now my SO is wanting at least a partial fursuit! I'm thrilled!!
OK, on with the re-cap.
Thurs: got to the hotel, checked in & settled w/a good hour and a half to rest before pre-reg opened so we could pick up our badges. I also dropped off my donation for the charity auction & spent the rest of the evening getting Arlo ready for the weekend.
FRI: Suited up for opening ceremonies and the 'So This is Your First FurCon' panel. I have to say I was a bit disappointed in the panel. The ones I've seen before usually bring a fursuiter up to show new attendees proper interaction behavior and the visual/movement limitations that fursuiters experience. This year's was basically 'Welcome, any questions? Go have fun!'
We kicked around the Dealer's Den & checked out the Art Show before heading over to the Active Fursuiting panel. Good basic information and I'd love to see a more advanced version in future where suiters are able to interact with the panel hosts and perhaps get critiques on our movements/gestures with the goal in mind of improving our performance techniques.
Then it was back to the room so that I could shower & change & we could eat/rest before attending the Furry Match Game followed by Alkali's Whose Lion Is It Anyway? Both shows were hilarious!
SAT: Should have mentioned earlier but the breakfast buffet in the Sheraton cafe was nomingly delicious! We watched a bit of the Furry Charades and then got ready for the Fursuit Parade. I asked my SO to walk with me & we had matching bowling shirts so that folks could see my partner was my handler. Worked out quite well and they were able to carry my totebag (I gave out a few t-shirts that I had designed). I had to admit I was thrilled to see several Stormfire Studios fursuits at this con. I got to meet Tundru and Duke and saw OdinWolf and a rottie suit who's name escapes me. This was the first time I'd seen any of Arlo's 'brothers' in person!
Didn't make it to the Furries in the Media panel but opted for an early dinner and went to Kage's Story Hour then suited up to hit the dancefloor. My SO had the moves, but this poor, tired old graymuzzle wolf spent a lot of time hanging out on the sidelines and enjoying the music....Oh to have discovered fursuiting about 20 years ago....but, I would not have been able to afford one back then!
SUN: Up early, more buffet noms and then to Kage's Convention Horror Stories. We stayed for the IFC Q & A and let me just state for the record: the reason I keep coming back to IFC is because the staff does a kick ass job of running it. Sure there are hiccups (just as in any con situation) but these guys and gals take the time to think about the needs of their attendees and the venue hotel this year was wonderful. Loved having everything on one floor and easily accessible. THANK YOU INDYFURCON STAFF!!!
Passed on the Fursuit Games to attend the Charity Auction (would love to have done both but they were scheduled opposite each other). Got some shots of Arlo keeping the galaxy safe for furry fandom and then attended closing ceremonies.
On the whole it was a great con and my SO's embracing the fandom and now wanting to suit with me was just icing on the cake of a fun weekend.
General Likes: the Sponsor Suite! Loved the hot food service, made mealtimes very easy! SuperSponsor gift...who wouldn't love their own dark red, squeaky, plush Tribble?! Getting to see Alkali, Uncle Kage, Skroy & Bucktown from the second row instead of on a huge vid-screen. This is what makes smaller cons so great!
Minor irritation: hotel housekeeping! Our room wasn't cleaned until 4pm each day even though housekeeping staff were on our floor hall as early as 9:30-10 am each morning. I understand having a full house means it takes longer to clean but for that reason the Sheraton should have brought on extra staff (with multiple conventions that weekend it would have been a reasonable thing to do). On a regular vacation, it wouldn't be an issue, we'd be out seeing the sights all afternoon. For a con, there were times on all 3 days that I needed to be either de-suiting, suiting up or showering and having housekeeping show up at 4 or 5 pm caused us to be late to a couple of things. Rather than ask them to come back in 15 minutes, we opted to bug out and let them do their job.
Overall it was a great weekend and we can't wait for next year!
OK, on with the re-cap.
Thurs: got to the hotel, checked in & settled w/a good hour and a half to rest before pre-reg opened so we could pick up our badges. I also dropped off my donation for the charity auction & spent the rest of the evening getting Arlo ready for the weekend.
FRI: Suited up for opening ceremonies and the 'So This is Your First FurCon' panel. I have to say I was a bit disappointed in the panel. The ones I've seen before usually bring a fursuiter up to show new attendees proper interaction behavior and the visual/movement limitations that fursuiters experience. This year's was basically 'Welcome, any questions? Go have fun!'
We kicked around the Dealer's Den & checked out the Art Show before heading over to the Active Fursuiting panel. Good basic information and I'd love to see a more advanced version in future where suiters are able to interact with the panel hosts and perhaps get critiques on our movements/gestures with the goal in mind of improving our performance techniques.
Then it was back to the room so that I could shower & change & we could eat/rest before attending the Furry Match Game followed by Alkali's Whose Lion Is It Anyway? Both shows were hilarious!
SAT: Should have mentioned earlier but the breakfast buffet in the Sheraton cafe was nomingly delicious! We watched a bit of the Furry Charades and then got ready for the Fursuit Parade. I asked my SO to walk with me & we had matching bowling shirts so that folks could see my partner was my handler. Worked out quite well and they were able to carry my totebag (I gave out a few t-shirts that I had designed). I had to admit I was thrilled to see several Stormfire Studios fursuits at this con. I got to meet Tundru and Duke and saw OdinWolf and a rottie suit who's name escapes me. This was the first time I'd seen any of Arlo's 'brothers' in person!
Didn't make it to the Furries in the Media panel but opted for an early dinner and went to Kage's Story Hour then suited up to hit the dancefloor. My SO had the moves, but this poor, tired old graymuzzle wolf spent a lot of time hanging out on the sidelines and enjoying the music....Oh to have discovered fursuiting about 20 years ago....but, I would not have been able to afford one back then!
SUN: Up early, more buffet noms and then to Kage's Convention Horror Stories. We stayed for the IFC Q & A and let me just state for the record: the reason I keep coming back to IFC is because the staff does a kick ass job of running it. Sure there are hiccups (just as in any con situation) but these guys and gals take the time to think about the needs of their attendees and the venue hotel this year was wonderful. Loved having everything on one floor and easily accessible. THANK YOU INDYFURCON STAFF!!!
Passed on the Fursuit Games to attend the Charity Auction (would love to have done both but they were scheduled opposite each other). Got some shots of Arlo keeping the galaxy safe for furry fandom and then attended closing ceremonies.
On the whole it was a great con and my SO's embracing the fandom and now wanting to suit with me was just icing on the cake of a fun weekend.
General Likes: the Sponsor Suite! Loved the hot food service, made mealtimes very easy! SuperSponsor gift...who wouldn't love their own dark red, squeaky, plush Tribble?! Getting to see Alkali, Uncle Kage, Skroy & Bucktown from the second row instead of on a huge vid-screen. This is what makes smaller cons so great!
Minor irritation: hotel housekeeping! Our room wasn't cleaned until 4pm each day even though housekeeping staff were on our floor hall as early as 9:30-10 am each morning. I understand having a full house means it takes longer to clean but for that reason the Sheraton should have brought on extra staff (with multiple conventions that weekend it would have been a reasonable thing to do). On a regular vacation, it wouldn't be an issue, we'd be out seeing the sights all afternoon. For a con, there were times on all 3 days that I needed to be either de-suiting, suiting up or showering and having housekeeping show up at 4 or 5 pm caused us to be late to a couple of things. Rather than ask them to come back in 15 minutes, we opted to bug out and let them do their job.
Overall it was a great weekend and we can't wait for next year!
IFC Meme
Posted 13 years agoI'm not usually a memer (is that even a word?!) but as it is IFC, I'll give it a whirl.
Name:
Kelly
Age:
44
Height:
5' 7"
Appearance:
You'll have to find out in person
Status:
Happily married
Where will you be staying?
Main hotel with my SO
When will you be arriving/leaving?
Arriving late Thursday night, leaving early Monday
Fursuits that you will be bringing:
-Arlo
How can I find you?
Look for the six foot tall, black & gray wolf wearing a cargo vest
How can I get your attention?
'Hey Arlo!' works very well
When will you be suiting?
As often as I possibly can, for sure in the evenings.
Where will you be usually?
Wandering around.
Can I hug/snuggle you?
Ask first and please don't be offended if I offer you a hand to shake instead or give you a knuckle bump. I'm not a huggy person unless I know you very well. Snuggles are reserved for my SO only!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, especially if I'm in suit. NOT in the headless lounge however.
Can I buy you a drink?
I may join you for one but I'll pay for my own.
Will you be attending parties?
Most likely not.
Where will you be eating?
I'll find out when I'm hungry and near someplace.
Can I draw you stuff?
Rated G only, but you're welcome to of my fursuit character.
Can I talk to you?
I don't speak in suit but out of suit certainly.
When you're out quadding, can I ride on your back?
I don't quad and DON'T even try it.
Can I touch/handle your fursuits?
Gentle pats on my arms or shoulder are fine, please no skritching or grabbing my tail. My handler doesn't like it when I'm 'mis-handled'....neither do I. In short "don't get grabby"!
Can I wear any of your suits?
No. I don't even let my SO wear my suit. Arlo was made for me and really wouldn't fit anyone else too well in any case.
Can I ask you to dance?
I will be happy to greet you at the dance, knuckle bump, hi-five or derp around a bit but my only dancin' partner is my SO.
Can I commission a badge from you?
Alas....I am only a patron of the arts. Any badge/drawing/sketch or illustration I might produce would be suitable only for goat fodder.
How should I act around you in suit?
-Absolutely no food, drink, unwashed hands/bodies or cigarettes around it please. Fur is very hard to clean and will absorb smells easily. It's also pretty flammable!
-Arlo was an expensive purchase for me and one that I love very much. Please don't pull on his tail, ears, muzzle or poke him in the eyes.
-Please don't pull on the fur or run your fingers through it. Even the oils on our skin can cause soiling.
-No uninvited physical contact: ie stealth hugs, glomping, tackling or grabbing. One-I'm a graymuzzle with lower back issues...OW!! Two-if you scare me (remember fursuits have very limited fields of vision) I might whack first in self-defense and apologize later.
**Having said this, I love to interact with folks when I'm in suit and I love to meet new people. Just use common sense and we'll be fine.
Will you be in any events?
Fursuit parade for sure but the masquerade only if it is to show off the suit, I don't have a skit planned. My handler and I will probably be at one of the dances at least.
Can't think of anything else at the moment other than if you're a fellow graymuzzle then please stop me and say hi! Hope everyone has a safe trip to IFC.
Name:
Kelly
Age:
44
Height:
5' 7"
Appearance:
You'll have to find out in person
Status:
Happily married
Where will you be staying?
Main hotel with my SO
When will you be arriving/leaving?
Arriving late Thursday night, leaving early Monday
Fursuits that you will be bringing:
-Arlo
How can I find you?
Look for the six foot tall, black & gray wolf wearing a cargo vest
How can I get your attention?
'Hey Arlo!' works very well
When will you be suiting?
As often as I possibly can, for sure in the evenings.
Where will you be usually?
Wandering around.
Can I hug/snuggle you?
Ask first and please don't be offended if I offer you a hand to shake instead or give you a knuckle bump. I'm not a huggy person unless I know you very well. Snuggles are reserved for my SO only!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, especially if I'm in suit. NOT in the headless lounge however.
Can I buy you a drink?
I may join you for one but I'll pay for my own.
Will you be attending parties?
Most likely not.
Where will you be eating?
I'll find out when I'm hungry and near someplace.
Can I draw you stuff?
Rated G only, but you're welcome to of my fursuit character.
Can I talk to you?
I don't speak in suit but out of suit certainly.
When you're out quadding, can I ride on your back?
I don't quad and DON'T even try it.
Can I touch/handle your fursuits?
Gentle pats on my arms or shoulder are fine, please no skritching or grabbing my tail. My handler doesn't like it when I'm 'mis-handled'....neither do I. In short "don't get grabby"!
Can I wear any of your suits?
No. I don't even let my SO wear my suit. Arlo was made for me and really wouldn't fit anyone else too well in any case.
Can I ask you to dance?
I will be happy to greet you at the dance, knuckle bump, hi-five or derp around a bit but my only dancin' partner is my SO.
Can I commission a badge from you?
Alas....I am only a patron of the arts. Any badge/drawing/sketch or illustration I might produce would be suitable only for goat fodder.
How should I act around you in suit?
-Absolutely no food, drink, unwashed hands/bodies or cigarettes around it please. Fur is very hard to clean and will absorb smells easily. It's also pretty flammable!
-Arlo was an expensive purchase for me and one that I love very much. Please don't pull on his tail, ears, muzzle or poke him in the eyes.
-Please don't pull on the fur or run your fingers through it. Even the oils on our skin can cause soiling.
-No uninvited physical contact: ie stealth hugs, glomping, tackling or grabbing. One-I'm a graymuzzle with lower back issues...OW!! Two-if you scare me (remember fursuits have very limited fields of vision) I might whack first in self-defense and apologize later.
**Having said this, I love to interact with folks when I'm in suit and I love to meet new people. Just use common sense and we'll be fine.
Will you be in any events?
Fursuit parade for sure but the masquerade only if it is to show off the suit, I don't have a skit planned. My handler and I will probably be at one of the dances at least.
Can't think of anything else at the moment other than if you're a fellow graymuzzle then please stop me and say hi! Hope everyone has a safe trip to IFC.
I Am Mystery Otter!!!
Posted 13 years agoYa-hoo, De Vest Is Here!
Posted 13 years agoYay!
My cooling vest is here and it fits great! I'm so stoked and can't wait for a chance to try it out.
My cooling vest is here and it fits great! I'm so stoked and can't wait for a chance to try it out.
Vest En-route, The Summer Is Saved!
Posted 13 years agoI hope!
I had been looking into purchasing a cooling vest and ice packs off of Amazon and found an auction for the exact same item on FurBuy (with extra cooling panels included) at a good starting price. I bid on it & won and just heard back from the seller that it is on its way.
This should really help out with summer suiting and the two cons that I want to attend later this year (early Aug. & late Sept.).
I also invested in an additional diveskin so that I can trade out base garments in between rounds of fursuiting (one can be ready to go while the other is rinsed and hung to dry) as well as a new lycra balaclava that extends past the bottom of my neck. This one I can actually tuck underneath the collar of my diveskin and it stays in place underneath Arlo's head so much better.
In between work and home stuff, I'm sewing velcro patches on the straps of Arlo's parade sandals to keep them from popping open while in use. The end of the straps are just long enough to overhang the buckles by about an inch on each one, but with any moderate movement of the foot they slip out of the buckles and let the sandal flop on my paw. The velcro anchors should help stop this. I love the sandals and want to do more outside suiting with my wolf but I also want those beautiful paws and claws of his protected.
Hope everyone that is gearing up for Anthrocon has a safe trip there and back; tons of fun while you're there and posts lots of journals and photos when you get home for the rest of us to con vicarously with!!
Happy weekend all!
I had been looking into purchasing a cooling vest and ice packs off of Amazon and found an auction for the exact same item on FurBuy (with extra cooling panels included) at a good starting price. I bid on it & won and just heard back from the seller that it is on its way.
This should really help out with summer suiting and the two cons that I want to attend later this year (early Aug. & late Sept.).
I also invested in an additional diveskin so that I can trade out base garments in between rounds of fursuiting (one can be ready to go while the other is rinsed and hung to dry) as well as a new lycra balaclava that extends past the bottom of my neck. This one I can actually tuck underneath the collar of my diveskin and it stays in place underneath Arlo's head so much better.
In between work and home stuff, I'm sewing velcro patches on the straps of Arlo's parade sandals to keep them from popping open while in use. The end of the straps are just long enough to overhang the buckles by about an inch on each one, but with any moderate movement of the foot they slip out of the buckles and let the sandal flop on my paw. The velcro anchors should help stop this. I love the sandals and want to do more outside suiting with my wolf but I also want those beautiful paws and claws of his protected.
Hope everyone that is gearing up for Anthrocon has a safe trip there and back; tons of fun while you're there and posts lots of journals and photos when you get home for the rest of us to con vicarously with!!
Happy weekend all!
Poof-I'm Back!
Posted 13 years agoHaven't updated in a looooong time, so here we go:
I just realized I never posted how my end of year fursuiting gig went: BRILLIANT!!! I had other jobs to do that night as well but I was 'in suit' and at my meet and greet station as Arlo for a full hour that evening and I HAD A BLAST!!!!
There were a couple of kids waiting for me to make my appearance (their parents said they'd heard the 'wolf' was going to be there & they didn't want to miss him!) and hi-fives and fun interactions abounded. It was a great way to break into event suiting for me. I was at a stationary post and folks came to me so I was able to work without a spotter (mind you I had about six other folks watching out for me, including my 'seeing eye human' who helped me up the stairs and back to my dressing room). I was in a little alcove area so I had a wall at my back and no-one could sneak up on me to pull my tail, lol!
I had little prizes to give out and just in general made a big old goofy fool out of myself. At one point a juggler that had been hired to do the event strolled by and I had fun pretending to juggle behind his back. He offered me one of the balls he'd been tossing in the air and Arlo promptly 'ate' it, to the amusement of the watching guests.
Downside: it got really hot, really quickly in the building, due to the number of event attendees we had. I have got to get a cooling vest to help me weather the stress a bit better. An hour in suit with no breaks was about my limit with that kind of poor air circulation. Going outside to get back to my dressing room was a relief to say the least.
I would do something like this again in a heartbeat and I was so happy with how well my character was received. Love my suit, love performing and can't wait to get to a couple of cons with him later this year.
Hope everyone is doing well!
I just realized I never posted how my end of year fursuiting gig went: BRILLIANT!!! I had other jobs to do that night as well but I was 'in suit' and at my meet and greet station as Arlo for a full hour that evening and I HAD A BLAST!!!!
There were a couple of kids waiting for me to make my appearance (their parents said they'd heard the 'wolf' was going to be there & they didn't want to miss him!) and hi-fives and fun interactions abounded. It was a great way to break into event suiting for me. I was at a stationary post and folks came to me so I was able to work without a spotter (mind you I had about six other folks watching out for me, including my 'seeing eye human' who helped me up the stairs and back to my dressing room). I was in a little alcove area so I had a wall at my back and no-one could sneak up on me to pull my tail, lol!
I had little prizes to give out and just in general made a big old goofy fool out of myself. At one point a juggler that had been hired to do the event strolled by and I had fun pretending to juggle behind his back. He offered me one of the balls he'd been tossing in the air and Arlo promptly 'ate' it, to the amusement of the watching guests.
Downside: it got really hot, really quickly in the building, due to the number of event attendees we had. I have got to get a cooling vest to help me weather the stress a bit better. An hour in suit with no breaks was about my limit with that kind of poor air circulation. Going outside to get back to my dressing room was a relief to say the least.
I would do something like this again in a heartbeat and I was so happy with how well my character was received. Love my suit, love performing and can't wait to get to a couple of cons with him later this year.
Hope everyone is doing well!
Tonight's the night!
Posted 13 years agoI'm getting everything together for my fursuiting appearance tonight! I am very excited that Arlo's going to be at his first public event as a part of the planned entertainment. As soon as pics are sent my way, I'll post a few.
Wish me luck!
Wish me luck!
Merry Hanukwansolstimas Everyone!
Posted 14 years agoI think that covers most of the bases, lol!
Seriously, I hope everyone has a very happy holiday season, if you celebrate. And if you don't then peace and prosperity upon you for the new year.
Take care all!
Arlo
Seriously, I hope everyone has a very happy holiday season, if you celebrate. And if you don't then peace and prosperity upon you for the new year.
Take care all!
Arlo
Arlo Gots Another Gig!
Posted 14 years agoYep! I will be suiting at a local event at the end of this month! I will be working the crowd of visitors as filler entertainment to help engage them between scheduled shows that evening. I am very excited as if this goes well, there is a good chance I will be able to appear for this business again in future.
This is a volunteer gig and I'm pleased to be doing it. #1, I need the experience and I will get it, there should be 300+ folks attending (and yes I've already consulted with the event planner about a handler and my needs that evening...all systems are go!) and #2, this will give my character some good exposure in the community.
I'll post on how things go and there should be someone taking photographs so I may have a pic or two to share afterwards.
This is a volunteer gig and I'm pleased to be doing it. #1, I need the experience and I will get it, there should be 300+ folks attending (and yes I've already consulted with the event planner about a handler and my needs that evening...all systems are go!) and #2, this will give my character some good exposure in the community.
I'll post on how things go and there should be someone taking photographs so I may have a pic or two to share afterwards.
