**U.K TRIP & CONFUZZLED 2025 JOURNAL - THE TRIP OF THE DECADE** It's been four weeks since I attended my 44th Furry Convention, but this particular event was 'completely different' as it was my first ever convention held outside of North America. This was Joe Bear's FURST International Furry Convention. LIKE, WOW... This Dorky Brown Grizzly Bear from California became a Fluffy 'Globe-Trotter!!' I will detail my travels across The United Kingdom (England and Wales) by train and of 'Confuzzled 2025' in this journal essay, but the origins of this trip began in Boston during 'Anthro New England' in January, 2023. During ANE 2023 'TRAINS!' I got to meet two extraordinary people that touched my heart and my life. I was able to meet for the first time in person  anthrocoon, a 'Furst Fandom' Greymuzzle Raccoon and a Radio Personality from Salem, MA. As I once worked in Radio myself, our relationship had many similiarites as I grew up like Bob - 'Tuned In' on The Radio. We grew up listening to Top 40 on AM Radio in the 1970's and later Album Rock on FM in the 1980's, while we DX'ed Shortwave Broadcasts on our old Realistic/Radio Shack Radios during the early 1980's (Radio Moscow, BBC, Cold War-era Broadcasts.) For myself, I went to College and ended up as a DJ for Jazz KSBR 88.5 Orange County, CA under the name 'Joe The Bear' (This was WAY before I became a 'Furry' and joined 'The Fandom' in 2014.) I knew Bob for several years online on the Internet before we finally met in person during ANE 2023. My other close friend,  Daicymru from Port Talbot, Wales UK is a German Shepard fursona and similar to Bob 'Anthrocoon,' I have chatted online on the Internet via FUR AFFINITY and other social media for years. Unlike Bob, I had previously met David in Reno, Nevada during 'Biggest Little Fur Con' in June, 2022. During BLFC 2022 'Con Not Found,' we met for the first time while eating 'Round Table Pizza' located inside 'The Grand Sierra Resort.' What I found out while chatting with David, alongside my friends Ken  vvolfaith and Reid  Bodker that he's a well spoken, intelligent young man with a kind heart and generous spirit. We had a great time together during BLFC, then he flew back to Los Angeles (on a different airline than mine) and with my father's help, picked both of us up from LAX. My Dad really liked David, as they both were pilots and my Dad worked with private planes for decades. Dad dropped us off at my Apartment in Redondo Beach and he stayed approximately two days while I took him around my area, including my childhood hangouts 'The Redondo Beach Pier' and Dockweiler Beach. We drove PCH across Palos Verdes to Long Beach, met my brother Andrew and had dinner near 'The Queen Mary.' During his visit to L.A., we planned for me to visit The United Kingdom and do a mixed Normie/Furry vacation in which we would start from arrival in London to his home in Wales, and visit cities across Wales and Western England before attending Britain's largest Furry Convention and one that was on my bucket list 'Confuzzled' or 'CFz' in 2024. We had a verbal agreement to make this a reality. By the end of ANE '23, flights were being discussed and registration to fulfill after 'CFz 2023' concluded that May. Then, my Dad (Sid Goria) passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on March 14th, 2023. Everything changed overnight. Our 2024 plans were postponed until further notice, as our family had to deal with a disabled uncle who was under my father's care and we had to deal with Probate/Estate matters. It was very difficult time and extremely painful for me to handle. I appreciated my brother Andrew and sister Anita's assistance. Fast forward one year... In June, 2024 after 'Confuzzled' 'Dylan's Ocean Odyssey' concluded, with my disabled uncle 'Vin' moved out of my parents' house and now living with his 36 year old son in Phoenix, and with my father's Trust/Probate mostly settled – I revisited trip plans with David 'DaiCymru.' May is usually a busy convention month for Joe Bear as I attend my favorite furry con 'Furry Weekend Atlanta' or 'FWA' in Georgia. This year would be no different than the previous nine years (Exception of 2020 as there was no in-person con due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but a virtual con 'FWA At-Home' was held and which I was also involved in.) As I had done back-to-back weekend conventions before, Like 'FWA 2019' in Atlanta, GA and 'BLFC 2019' in Reno, NV the following weekend – I would have to plan for FWA and CFz as the dates were close enough on the May schedule to make it happen by appropriating the correct time off from work. In November, 2024 I got the weeks off to attend BOTH FWA and Confuzzled in May, 2025. After my time off was approved, flights to Atlanta, GA and London, England were finalized on American (FWA) and United (CFz). Thanks to David, we were able to get our hotel room outside of Con Block ('moxy' Hotel) alongside help with the registration and assistance with the wire transfer of funds to Confuzzled as it was different type of payment processing that they requested. It was very different from U.S. conventions, but once I received confirmation for registration, wire transfer and 'moxy' Hotel confirmation - WE WERE SET!! Regarding hotel choice – We were offered the 'overflow' hotel for CFz 'Crowne Plaza' but opted to stay outside con block with 'moxy' instead. It was the logical choice, for one 'moxy' is part of Marriott and as 'Bonvoy Platinum' we received bonus points and got a discount on breakfast and the walk was a whole lot closer to Hilton Metropole. We realized how lucky we were when we arrived on the Friday of CFz. Plans were finalized February 1st, the day before I moved out of my apartment in Redondo Beach after 20 years and 'Returned Home' to my childhood house in Inglewood, CA. I was looking forward to 'FWA 2025' and 'Confuzzled 2025' as these two cons would be my first 'Furry' events since moving back home. On Tues. May 13th, I returned home to Los Angeles after a week in Atlanta – and had one of the most electrifying FWA convention experiences in recent memory!! It confirmed to me why 'Furry Weekend' is a convention I HIGHLY recommend to others. I want to thank my 'BESTEST FURRY FURIEND'  goody2toad of Atlanta for his friendship and hospitality for allowing this dork to stay four nights at his house and four nights at Marriott Marquis Atlanta, the proud home of FWA since 2015. The growth of this con since FWA 2022's 'The Enchanted Forest' has been beyond extraordinary. Let's talk FWA 2022 (7,212) to FWA 2024 (15,036) THATS A DOUBLING OF ATTENDEES...PONDER THAT IN YOUR MIND FOR A BIT!! FWA 2025 'Cyberpunk' was no different, as it broke all attendance records with 17,736 attendees, besting ANTHROCON 2024 by a mere 97 folks (I also attended last year's Anthrocon '24 'Anthrocoaster' with the late Bob 'Anthrocoon' Nelson) After two days recovering (and cleaning my sweaty fursuit) from the excitement of FWA 2025, On Thurs. May 15th I returned to work for only two quick days. By Saturday, I was on vacation again!! I then realized this particular trip to Britain would be much BIGGER... LONGER (11 Days) and a FURTHER (5895 flight miles) than my recently completed trip to Atlanta, GA U.S. (1933 flight miles) I pondered this thought on Saturday as I packed Joe Bear inside my "Big Blue" American Tourister luggage for this furry convention, my first one in a foreign country. After the craziness of FWA, how would 'Confuzzled' be... A boring room party with cups of tea being passed out? “Want sugar and crème in your cuppa?” I thought CFz would be a 'Debbie Downer' compared to the high octane energy that I experienced at FWA in Atlanta. Well, I found out quickly it wasn't the case at all. *SUN. MAY 18TH - Los Angeles, CA to London, England I boarded United Flt. 923 (LAX-LHR) on a Boeing 'Dreamliner' 787 for an 11-hour flight mostly on night route (red-eye.) I sat in 56B which are the last seats in the back of the plane, and there was a reason. It only had two seats as the curvature of the Boeing 787 got narrower toward the rear. It provided more room, and I could put my fursuit head in one of single slot overhead bin, for privacy and protection from other people's luggage. Joe Bear was well protected as my flight attendant made sure no one could use that single slot overhead bin. The next day, I filled out to United a 'five star' review thanking 'Carol.' Shortly after takeoff, it was odd to see the windows darken tint by itself - a benefit of flying United Boeing 787 as it had self tinting windows. Cool!!! While we were at 40,000 ft., it was strange to see the sun in a low horizon setting for hours, I realized because it was summer and we were flying way far north over Canada, then Greenland. It was cool to witness what I believe was 'The Midnight Sun' (I took video.) I finished reading my book while listening to my favorite albums off iTunes, all the while utilizing United's flight map on the back seat TV entertainment screen. As we approached landing at London Heathrow, I was able to recall venues and buildings from my previous flights with Dad on British Airways from so many years ago. We landed at London Heathrow exactly 11:20am (5:20am Pacific) Monday. *MON. MAY 19TH – London, England to Port Talbot, Wales I was back in The United Kingdom for the first time since November, 2004. I waited for most of the passengers to disembark off the plane, as I was not in a hurry (Sorry, David.) After the extended walk through U.K. Customs with SMILE, yer on Candid Camera and 'Why are you visiting the U.K.?' (Well, I'm sightseeing and attending a Furry Convention in Birmingham..) Then, I got the green check. Once I got my luggage and along with my carryon backback and fursuit head in tow... I WAS ON MY WAY!! David 'DaiCymru' Lakin waved at me as I exited Customs & Baggage Claim and 'We Hugged!!' YES!! I was in awe to see Heathrow Airport T2 beautifully redone since my last visit 21 years earlier. United is located at “Terminal 2 – The Queen's Terminal” to honor Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) and dedicated in 2012. I was excited and ready for my FURST International Furry Convention 'Confuzzled,' but it was also a combination Normie/Furry vacation. We would do the 'Normie' stuff first such as sightseeing and visiting new cities in Wales and England that I've only read about in books. For my fourth time in The United Kingdom and first time back after 21 years, I was going to spend most of my time outside of London – I was going to see THE REAL U.K., with my Shep Pal 'DaiCymru' leading the way. The mark of a 'Good Doggo' is by being ready and to have a plan. David was truly 'spot on' ready - even before I left California, 'DaiCymru' sent a four page daily trip planner to follow accordingly. For the four days before the convention, we visited five cities/communities and took in the best of each one. He had Rail Passes and guides to determine what museum, park or downtown centre of each city we visited. Like a good Shep, he knew where to go and we had a splendid time!! We left Heathrow by boarding a London city bus to a nearby train station 'Slough' to catch a train to 'Reading' station outside of London, with transfer on another train to David's hometown of Port Talbort, Wales. The train ride from Reading to Port Talbot was a treat!! To see the English Countryside and not London Concrete was like 'Thank You, Jesus!!' It was sheer beauty to see the U.K. that my brother Andrew told me about when he visited Lincolnshire in 2000. Port Talbot is a quaint small town located south of Swansea with the largest city of Cardiff, a former coal mining and distribution hub now Governmental home of The Welch Parliament only 33 miles away by Rail and where David works for The Welch Government. The next four days (May 20th - 23nd) up to 'Confuzzled' went very fast. *TUES. MAY 20TH – Cardiff, Wales. After a breakfast of Weetabix and fruit, we left David's lovely spacious house in Port Talbot by taxicab to the nearby Port Talbot Rail Station for a train ride to Cardiff, to spend the day and sightsee Wales' largest city and center of Government. We spent the afternoon at Historic 'Cardiff Castle,' walked Cardiff's Downtown District and ended our day at 'Cardiff Bay' where we visited 'The Pierhead' building with it's historic past as a coal mining distribution center and headquarters to now part of The Welch Government complex that includes a Clock Tower called 'The Welch Big Ben.' We visited the modern Welch Parliament Building nearby. We stopped by one of the government buildings where he worked, while being allowed to sit in on a late afternoon session of The Welch Parliament or 'Senedd' (held in another building as the modern Welch Parliament building was being renovated) I had to wear headphones as they spoke in the Welch language though David didn't need headphones as he spoke Welch fluently. We walked over to 'Cardiff Bay' to take in a lovely sunset and stroll near the waterfront. We visited 'Red Dragon' Shopping Complex where I had my FIRST EVER Double Cheeseburger in The United Kingdom at 'Five Guys' (Yes, That FIVE GUYS) and it tasted just like home in America. Just Pricier ($30 with lousy Exchange Rate.) We came home to Port Talbot past 9pm. *WED. MAY 21ST – Bristol, England. After a hearty bowl of 'Weetabix' and fruit at David's house, and a quick visit outside to see his impressive backyard garden area, we departed after 11:30am by taxi to Port Talbot Rail Station to catch the Train to Bristol, England (across the border from Wales in Western England.) We took a taxi in Bristol, but our driver screwed up and instead of taking us to 'Aerospace Bristol' Aviation Museum, taxi driver took us to AIRBUS' U.K. Headquarters Building. It was a boo-boo, but we took it in stride. Though seeing the modern AIRBUS HQ was cool, the building next door stood out due to its history in British Aerospace. We did get to see the legendary “Pegasus House” which was built in 1936 and was The Headquaters of the company that AIRBUS took over, The Bristol Aeroplane Company. We were able to catch a bus over to 'Aerospace Bristol' Museum and after a short walk, we arrived just before 1:30pm. It was a memorable experience!! The museum was modern and I was extremely impressed by the many examples of aircraft and exhibits presented. I realized the importance of Bristol's contribution to Global Aviation alongside Britain's Industrial strength and it's influence in Aerospace Engineering across the world. I FINALLY got to walk inside The British Airways' Concorde (G-BOAF) or 'Alpha Foxtrot' which was the last Concorde to fly on November 26th, 2003. It flew home here to Filton, and they built this amazing hanger just for BA Concorde (The museum is located in an adjacent building next to Concorde hanger.) If Dad was alive, as he worked in Aerospace for almost 45 years, he would've LOVED IT!! This visit was one of the HIGH-Lights of my trip before CFz. After we left 'Aerospace Bristol,' we took a city bus to Bristol's City Centre. It was amazing to be in a city like Bristol, which is Britain's sixth largest city. A vibrant city with a creative edge which was more like Berkeley than San Diego. You can see the reflections of it history here, as I counted many World War II memorials across the city. As this Nation just celebrated the 80th Anniversary of V-E DAY (End of WWII in Europe) - The British NEVER forgot the destruction of Bristol, London and other British cities during 'The Battle of Britain' in 1940-41. Bristol was flattened by The Luftwaffe and you can see a bit of WWII history by visiting 'Castle Park' – the remains of St. Peter's Church serves as a reminder of those dark days and a memory to those who died during the 1939-1945 War. When Sir Winston Churchill said 'This Was Their Finest Hour' - It was more than to honor R.A.F. heroes that defended the homeland, but to also pay an 'ode' to the citizens of Britain. We headed from 'Castle Park' to Bristol's downtown 'Cabot Circus' shopping district. We walked around for a bit, had a LOUSY McDonald's meal, and did some shopping at Boot's Drugs. We took a bus out of downtown to the Bristol Parkway Rail Station for the Train home to Port Talbot. We got back late, after 10:00pm. *THURS. MAY 22ND – Port Talbot & Cymmer, Wales. We woke up after 9am and had a 'Sausage Biscuit' with bowl of 'Weetabix' before going out on our last full day of sightseeing before leaving for 'Confuzzled.' On this day, we didn't have to catch a Train to leave town, as we were going to walk locally in Port Talbot and to get to know David's hometown. We would also visit his childhood home of Cymmer by city bus in the hills northeast of Port Talbot. We took a bus to the local transit depot near a couple of Churches and a local cemetery. We walked to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, thinking there was a Daily Mass. They were closed, and only hold services on Saturday Evening (Vigil) and Sundays only. We decided to visit the cemetery next door, and a person of significant importance buried there. The gravesite of Richard Lewis (Dic Penderyn) is located here, who was executed for his part in labor riots in 1831. He is remembered as a martyr for Union Organizing and Labor Law Fairness. He paid the ultimate price for challenging fairness for worker rights. As a Union guy myself, he's a HERO!! David and 'Yours Truly' walked across the downtown shopping district 'Aberafan' and Port Talbot City Centre. We then took another bus up into the hills east of Port Talbot to Cymmer, where his childhood home was located. We visited a community center where he once worked, I met a couple of his former co-workers there while sipping on a nice cup of tea and snacking on a Nestle Kit Kat bar. After spending some time at the center, we walked across town to a local pub to enjoy a pint (or two) and chatted. An hour had passed at the pub, we then departed for a steady hike across a tree lined walking path in the Cymmer countryside where the old coal railroad tracks were once laid down for cargo of coal to move down from the hill toward Port Talbot. Once the coal mining stopped, the tracks eventually went away and a nice hiking trail for folks to walk and enjoy nature opened up. David said we walked two miles, but it didn't feel like it. I enjoyed the beauty of The Welch Countryside alongside David. It was an enjoyable walk. I finally got to experience the natural landscape I so wanted to see on this trip. We caught another city bus which departed from the hills of Cymmer back to Port Talbot so we could take an early evening walk on the beach before sundown and to catch a ride on the Ferris Wheel, all in plain view of 'The Best Western Hotel' – where 'DaiCymru' and a few friends are organizing Wales' FURST Furry Convention later this summer called 'ABERACON.' At the completion of this essay on July 13th, their pre-registration had EXCEEDED expectations. CONGRATULATIONS to David 'DaiCymru' Lakin and his co-organizing team. We walked back to David's house from the beach. He made a wonderful dinner for me, Beef Pie with the fixings. It was perfect end to four days of sightseeing while I snapped a lot of pictures. Great memories were made on this trip to last a lifetime. *FRI. MAY 23RD – Birmingham, England & CONFUZZLED 2025 'DAY ONE' David  Daicymru and Joe  Joebear67 woke up early at 8:00am to have a last breakfast of Weetabix, fresh cut fruit and Sausage Rolls before our taxi arrived. I packed my suitcase from the previous night after dinner, as I'm a person that's always 'packed and ready' to go on a moment's notice when it's 'DAY ONE' of a large Furry Convention. It was time to say 'Farewell' to Port Talbot after four memorable days, with more memories yet to be made. As David locked up the house, I thanked him for being a great host for the four days while I visited his part of the world. Our Taxi arrived at 9:10am and we got our bags in and off we went to Port Talbot Rail Station for the last time on this trip. Our next destination was Birmingham, England on three different trains, with stops in Cardiff and then Bristol with transfer on impressive British Rail 'Long Distance' Train that reminded me of Amtrak's fast 'Acela' Trains servicing The Northeast U.S. Corridor. The British Rail Train was PACKED!! After four hours riding across Wales and England, going through lush countryside that reminded me of Disney's 'Robin Hood' – we arrived into Birmingham, The U.K.'s second largest city behind London. Once we arrived at Birmingham's 'Grand Central,' we had to take ANOTHER Train to NEC Convention Center which is located away from the city itself to the southeast. I was 'trained out' once we arrived. It was past 1:30pm when we arrived at NEC and got to see the first two Furries milling about near the food court inside NEC. Of course, I had to take pictures!! As we exited NEC Birmingham's 'Piazza' Entrance, we immediately saw 'moxy' hotel located outside, near a park and lake adjacent to 'Hilton Birmingham Metropole' and 'Resorts World' Complex, which had a hotel, shops and restaurants. We were fortunate to have this very close by where we could walk and catch a meal or visit the drug store after fursuiting. We checked into 'moxy' hotel right away, and we were able to get a room for our four nights of CFz. We were greeted by 'Connor' at front desk, and because of having Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, we received drink vouchers, a discount for breakfast each morning (which I didn't partake as I slept in) and voucher for a FREE Pepperoni Pizza, which came in handy on our last night on Monday. 'Connor' was exceptionally kind, as was 'Margo,' as she served us the Delicious Pepperoni Pizza on our last night during 'CFz 2025.' 'moxy' reminded me of 'Aloft' hotel that I stayed during 'Midwest Fur Fest 2022' in Rosemont, IL. Very chic, neon in the lobby, a big teddy bear that I teased with my bear head ('DaiCymru' took pics!!) very much a hotel catering to a younger 'Gen Z' crowd. We were on the 5th Floor, Room #523 with King Bed. Of course, I didn't mind..=) The room was small, as most hotels in Britain are in my opinion – but modern. After check-in, and drop off of our luggage and fursuit, we headed straight to 'Hilton Metropole' for 'The Reg Line...' (Like The 'Foxes & Peppers' song!!) We realized how 'moxy' was the BEST choice as it was only a five min walk from their front lobby to the rear entrance of 'Hilton Metropole.' Poor Crowne Plaza... While 'DaiCymru' and 'yours truly' were walking on the pathway from 'moxy' toward The Hilton Metropole's rear entrance, I caught my first ever 'Furry Photoshoot' in-progress on a grassy field along the pathway and trees. The fursuiter looked like a blue and white Husky or Hybrid Husky male 'dressed to kill,' and the photographer aimed his camera on this character for different angle shots. Later on during 'Confuzzled,' I would get to meet this particular Furry, which I will write about later in this essay. As I was entering 'Hilton Metropole Birmingham' for the first time, I realized this wasn't FWA and for obvious reasons. Not only was 'Confuzzled' my 1st International Fur Con, it was also my 1st ever 18+ convention for adults. These are becoming more appealing (Like Las Vegas Fur Con) as many of the attendees can dress in more adult-oriented clothing and fursuiting. It was strange to not see any children or families with children present - NO 'Moms of Furries' like at 'Further Confusion' in San Jose, CA and even 'FWA' in Atlanta a couple of weeks before 'CFz 2025.' Similar to 'Furry Weekend Atlanta,' Hired Security Guards were HIGHLY VISIBLE outside of Hilton's front and rear entrances, and across all con space. Unlike FWA, Security were on the lookout for attendees not wearing badges. This con implimented changes that started this year, only attendees wearing 'CFz 2025' badges would be allowed entry to ALL Affliated hotels (Hilton & Crowne Plaza) and anyone not wearing badges would be asked to leave. I've never attended a con with such strict code of conduct rules in place like this one. 'Confuzzled' got serious in combating 'ghosting' issues that had been a problem at other large conventions. Despite these differences, I ended up having a BLAST!!! It turned out to be an experience that was quite different from any other 'fluff' gathering that I've experienced in my ten years attending Furry Conventions and Furmeets in The U.S. David 'DaiCymru' and Joe 'Bear' got through the CFz Reg Line within 30 minutes after confirmation of all required documents. However, my 'Confuzzled' experience on Friday got off to a weird start, and it was all in my head... but I combated it with reasoning and logic on Friday. A lesson learned from my 'MFF 2022' experience. People tell me I can be a selfish fuck, and yes – they are correct. As I wasn't going to fursuit until the Saturday evening dances, I set out to get a feel of this whole new world of 'Furry' in another country. So, I took pictures of unknown fursuiters alongside David and then later on, I took pics alone as David got to break off from me to do his own thing and meetup with a couple of fiction writer friends for a Panel. As I walked around the popular front entrance of Hilton with the large crowd of fursuiters, I was realizing 'Did I enter 'The Twilight Zone?' Unlike cons at home, where fursuiters would often come over to see me and chat and hang out (If I was in 'Joe Bear' or as 'Joe Hooman') here at 'Confuzzled' 5000 miles away in Birmingham, England (NOT Alabama) “I DIDN'T KNOW OF ANY FURSUITER” kept calling in my head and I started feeling awkward. I haven't mentioned this before, but I'll write it here. MFF was one of the most difficult cons I've attended. I got very upset with a few friends at 'MFF 2022' HEROES! On Saturday night as I was alone, not getting invited to parties. I remember one of my best friends in this fandom, someone who knew Dogbomb (Tony Barrett) alongside me and a person who is my 'brother in arms' in the fight against ALS as we support each other's ALS charity events in California and North Carolina tell me to my face the 'truth.' And, I needed to hear it.  kofu was headed to a 'pup party' inside Hyatt Regency and it was a private event. I was alone, as two others skipped hanging with me after a furry rock concert. Of course, It was a crazy Sat night at MFF, everyone was going somewhere, and I already had been stiffed twice (never happened before). Kofu Lion couldn't allow me to go, was not his decision. He had to leave and apologized. I went back to the hotel and turned in early. 'Selfish me.' The next day at the MFF photoshoot I organized, when everyone showed up and made my Sunday at MFF great, Kofu said “Joe, sometimes people are going to get caught up, to a party, out to dinner, having sex with someone. You have to understand it's not anything against you.” Kofu Lion said it with tough love. Now, I had to face this moment at CFz, to not make it 'me me me' only, to turn the tables to 'we we we.' I did make a new friend during 'MFF 2022' named Robert  ticklepig, and we got to spend most of Sunday together after the photoshoot. Since my Dad's death, I've grown a lot wiser and more understanding toward others. Kofu was right, there will be situations you can't control. But, instead of standing there and looking like a deer in headlights, get yourself out there and make a move!! If I didn't know anyone here at Confuzzled, then I was gonna change that. DaiCymru mentioned to me it was best to not always hang alongside someone 100% of the time, but to get yourself out there alone and meet someone. Talk to someone, get to make a new friend. I changed my way of thinking and I did quickly on Friday night at CFz. ON FRIDAY, I KNEW NOBODY AT CONFUZZLED. BUT, BY THE END OF MONDAY – I MADE FOUR NEW FRIENDS!! Furries you WANT to be with... In the end, 'Confuzzled' turned out to be a 'Good Con...' My hightlights of Friday at CFz - I took pictures of fursuiters, got a quick meal from the Food Trucks parked in front of Hilton and made a visit to the con charity “SAINT'S SLED DOG RESCUE” to pet some real cute sled dogs rescues. Some of these dogs had medical support issues while others just needed a helping paw, My favorite dog and one liked by a lot of others was 'Mylo-Pup' and I got some great pictures with him. 'Mylo' liked sniffing my pants a lot and he allowed me to pet him a lot!! BTW, Mylo-Pup's eyes were simply beautiful!! Friday evening, I attended 'Confuzzled's' ever so popular Opening Ceremony hosted by 'Matt Lion' and their 3 mascots 'Brok Badger,' 'Mel Badger' and 'Dylan Gator.' The con staff took great pride in hosting this event and what an exciting ending with all the exploding confetti raining down on the audience! After Opening Ceremonies, as 'DaiCymru' was doing something else, I went alone and had dinner at Nando's Chicken in 'Resorts World' Complex. Afterwards, I returned to Hilton to take more fursuiting pictures. Then, the fire alarm went off and we all vacated from Hilton Metropole to hang outside in their parking lot for an hour until the all clear was sounded. I decided as it was already past 11pm to call it a night and I headed back to 'moxy' hotel. Saturday was going to be a BIG day!*SAT. MAY 24TH – Birmingham/CONFUZZLED 2025 'DAY TWO' David 'DaiCymru' woke up early to go out and get breakfast and to bring something back for myself once I got up after 10:00am. I would fursuit for the first time at Confuzzled late on Saturday night during Confuzzled's Evening Dance. So, after David departed over to Hilton for a Panel, I had my late breakfast in the room and got dressed before I took the short walk to Hilton to snap more fursuiting pictures, check out a couple of Panels before a stopover at the CFz Car Show, which was scheduled later that afternoon. My Saturday at CFz started with attending “The e621 Panel Quiz Show,” which was PACKED!! I was extremely lucky to find a seat up front near the stage. It turned out to be quite entertaining, with the contestants quite knowledgeable with 'Furry Kink.' After the Panel, I went out to Hilton Lobby and it was so crowded, if I was in Joe Bear it would be extremely difficult to walk with my BIG Bear Foot Stompers. As I exited out to the front entrance onto Hilton's famous front patio and driveway, we noticed cars driving past as these vehicles were headed to 'staging' mode for the CFz Car Show, located to the side rear as the employee car lot was being used for The Furry Car Show. I thought that was nice of Hilton employees to sacrafice their parking spaces for this event. Similar to BLFC's Car Show in Reno, Furries showed off their wheels and so much more!! I caught up with 'DaiCymru' Shep and his friend  Huskyteer a sci-fi and ficton writer/author who was very kind and her smile was like bright sunshine!! I must had snapped at least 100 pictures of different cars, and even a motorcyle and moped scooters!! Furries LOVE to be creative and personalize their vehicles with their fursona/fursuit. The license plates of the UK and European Union are different than our own individual U.S. State/Canadian Province License Plates, but both have connections when 'OWO' and UWU are registered on the license plate. I guess as 'Colonial Cousins' we might be more inter-connected than we thought!! Following CFz Car Show, I visited The CFz Dealers Den to look around and purchase a few items for myself and for Ken  VVolfaith back home in SoCal. I got to visit their 'VR Portal' to interact with virtual visitors from around the world, as I waved 'HI' to a camera that was connected to a large video screen with a Hilton Metropole background crowded with virtual fursona characters that responded back in kind. It was cool to be a part of this ever growing portal that connected thousands of Furries who couldn't be at CFz. As late Saturday afternoon soon turned into evening at Confuzzled, I walked around con space to take a last set of fursuit pictures before I myself would head back to 'moxy' to 'Suit Up' for the first time at this convention. Before I left Hilton Metropole to get ready for dinner and fursuiting, I attended “Confuzzled's Got Talent” variety show. It was similar to Further Confusion's 'UNLEASHED' talent show and Anthrocon's popular 'ANTHROCON TONIGHT.' It was a treat to see Furries from different countries and backgrounds come together to perform on stage - from singing, dancing, stand-up comedy and more. It was amazing to see and hear the creative energy and sparkle that each performer gave, and how wonderful 'The Furry Fandom' is represented by such great talent. Each performer was a winner... No matter where you might be from – FURRY IS GLOBAL!! After the show ended, I left Hilton to go to dinner alone for a second night in a row. I went to 'FIVE GUYS' at nearby 'Resorts World' shopping and dining complex, and then visited a mini-mart store to get some sodas and snacks. As I walked back to 'moxy' Hotel, I called David to join me in our room to help me suit up into 'Joe Bear' for the first time at CFz. The magic was about to begin... Once David 'DaiCymru' arrived, he immediately assisted me with partial suiting, as the weather was unpredictable with a chance of light rain. I wore my 'Cal' Football Jersey and used my boots instead of Bear Footpaws because of a threat of rain, and it would be easier for me to dance at a PACKED Rave on Confuzzled's Main Stage this Sat night. It was PERFECT!! By wearing my Bear partial with the Body Armour 'Cal' Football Jersey, it kept me from overheating in extremely overcrowded conditions. It felt right. Before we headed to Hilton's Main Stage for the dances, we walked out in front of Hilton Metropole's entrance, where Furries congregated and I was able to hang with some fursuiters from previous contacts. David was there with his camera to catch  Joebear67 with amazing Furries such as  Silkyfur a Bovine fursuiter from Sweden and fellow American  thesammon a Saint Bernard fursuiter with a kind heart. It was great to finally 'connect' with different fursuiters who don't usually attend U.S. Furry Conventions, many only attend British cons like Confuzzled and ScotiaCon, and or other European conventions and furmeets. This was like a bridge into a whole new world, even though in my case being from North America it was more like traveling the opposite direction to 'The Old World.' Confuzzled's Nightly Dances was a highlight for most younger Furries during the convention, especially on Saturday night at CFz (known as 'BIG NIGHT') as it's usually the peak of the con weekend. Being so crowded, to have my fursuit handler 'DaiCymru' beside me proved to be a lifesaver in many ways – as he was not just my handler, but a trusted partner who could watch things and hear things I might miss while wearing my bear. Believe me, It's a different world altogether when you are in fursuit. During the latter part of the first DJ 'Dogstorm' set, things got interesting...and I meant QUITE INTERESTING. As I was dancing, with my handler watching from a distance – a blue and white Husky fursuiter came near to my side as he tried to get my attention. I was looking primarily at the stage and continued to dance without care, but as he got more 'noticable' my handler 'DaiCymru' Shep came up and said 'this guy appearantely likes you.' Then, it happened... We started to dance together. This particular Husky fursuiter with cute eyes and a lovely streak of blue hair on top of his head got very excited, kept referring to me as 'Coach' (Sports Furry term) while we danced. It was obvious to me that this was meant to happen. I met  Strangey during a high-powered 'Deep House' Rave mix on Confuzzled's Main Stage and then realized that he was THE guy!!! Looking back from my first cons a decade ago and the friends I've made in Atlanta, Memphis, Reno and San Jose - these friends I've made are people of great caliber, Furries that I've stayed VERY close to this day. These are people that are 'near and dear' to me in my life. Example, I just got an wedding invite by two of my best furry friends that I first met at 'FWA 2016.' Tony Bear & Kyle Wolf's Wedding Celebration will be held next October in the 'other' Birmingham (Alabama, USA.) So, it was meant to be that I would become friends with this extremely talented, intelligent and VERY CUTE fursuiter. Strange told me later he was thinking "Damn, Who's That Sexy Bear Daddy?" And being a forward person, Strangey came to me while I danced alone, and I'm glad he did. After the Rave, I looked back at pictures from the previous day and discovered HE was the one I saw outside of 'moxy' Hotel in that photoshoot. I also found out he's a 'Dancer Fur' (Like  Neo-RevenG - who HATES the term 'Popufur'. So, I won't say that about Strange) who had won awards at various cons here in Britain. 'Strangey Corgsky' is from Manchester, England – Home to a large Furry community alongside London, and proudly 'GAY' (LIKE ME!) I was blown away by Strangey's personality, kindness and assertiveness that truly 'TOOK MY HEART.' People who know me will point out that when I feel this way about someone, I want to get to know that person then go to bed. GET LAID!! Go to 'Pound Town.' I wanted to get to know Strangey better, not for sex but to chat and get closer with this fascinating young man..err, dog. Strange and I swapped our social media info and agreed to meet on Sunday, maybe with his help get invited to a room party or two? Read On..This con started to become GREAT!! My new friendship with Strangey and other fursuiters helped ease the frustration of not connecting with the con on Friday and once I started fursuiting on Saturday the dots suddenly connected. FINALLY!! I had broken the ice. *SUN. MAY 25TH – Birmingham/CONFUZZLED 2025 'DAY THREE' Joe Bear's fursuiting Sunday of 'Confuzzled 2025' was one of the most incredibly entertaining days in my 11 years being with 'The Furry Fandom.' It cemented Confuzzled as a con I would return in future years and one I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! David 'DaiCymru' Shep and 'yours truly' started our Sunday morning with breakfast, then he helped me 'suit up' for most of Sunday afternoon into evening. This was my BIG FURSUITING DAY – A TOTAL OF 7 HOURS!! My 'Shep' Pal helped me with fursuit handling and took a lot of great pictures around the convention, I got to be interviewed for a TV documentary and we went to the 'CFz Fursuit Menagerie and Inflatable Meet.' Afterward, we headed over to Library room and watched the first 30 mins of 'Puss In Boots : The Last Wish.' It got a bit stuffy in the room, so we left to check out 'Dealer's Den,', and this time I walked the entire room wearing my Bear. Thoughout the afternoon, we got to hang out in front of the crowded Hilton Metropole entrance area and fursuiter meeting area to snap pictures with several amazing fursuiters such as  freddythepanda, 'Trunk The Bear,' 'Saethur Dragon,' 'Bulk Bear,' 'Deiku Panda' and  Corasik Beside 'Strange,' three other fursuiters touched my heart –  Tocs Red Panda,' 'Tim Stoddard'  gamepopper - Author of 'Furtannia : The History of the Furry Fandom in The U.K.' and a fellow 'brown' fursuiter 'DASPRiD' Thylacine (Who also DJ'ed a HARD ROCKING set later Sunday during 'CFz Nightly Dances') My Shep friend 'DaiCymru' did a fantastic job handling this 'ol bear around crowded con spaces, helped me with caution when going down stairwells that are all around the Hilton while being my 'photographfur' as he took so many great pictures on Sunday afternoon. We did so much on this day, with the highlight being our 5:00pm CFz Professional Photoshoot – located in 'The Churchill' Room. Sadly, 'Furry Weekend Atlanta' did NOT offer ANY Photoshoots for the second straight year!! During 'Confuzzled,' they had a professional photographer available with themed props laid out for use and to help fursuiters create a lasting photo memory from CFz '25 'Mel's Goes To Fashion Week.' We arrived before 5:00pm, as we had a reservation made in advance before the con. After a small delay, the photographer led me to the spot where he took amazing solo pictures of Joe Bear, then DaiCymru Shep joined me for additional pictures while we used the large button props with long needles!! It was a BLAST!!! These pictures were released on CFz website last weekend (June 30th) – they turned out simply RADIANT!! Thank You, Confuzzled for providing this service to fursuiters and attendees. After 7+ hours of fursuiting, I was done for Sunday, 'Day Three' at Britain's largest Furry Convention. We walked back to 'moxy' Hotel to 'break the magic' and take a cold shower! Once I dressed back to 'Hooman,' we headed to TGI Friday's at 'Resort World' Complex for a quick dinner before heading back to Hilton Metropole. We invited 'Huskyteer' to join us for dinner and she met us at TGI Friday's. It had to be quick, as she and David had to be at another panel to attend at 7:00pm called '5-Sentence Fiction' (I found out that 'Huskyteer' was part of the panel as one of the judges and David had written a '5-sentence fiction' essay to be analyzed.) 'Huskyteer' left early to join her colleagues 'Kandral' and a cute fursuiter with a long tail (I mean a real long tail) named 'Photographotter.' David and I left shortly after finishing dinner to join her at Hilton. We went straight to The Hilton's 'Salisbury' Room for '5-Sentence Fiction.' It was quite crowded for a writer's panel, with many well received entries from attendees in the room. It came as a pleasant surprise when David won 2nd Place for his submission. It was a very well written piece, and got excellent remarks from the judges including 'Photographotter.' CONGRATULATIONS, DAVID!!! I said 'goodnight' to David after the panel, as it was time to go PARTY on this U.K. Bank Holiday weekend ('Memorial Day' in U.S.) Maybe catch a party with  Strangey help. I had trouble locating an elevator to get to Strangey's room. However, after 10 minutes, I eventually found his room and my night began. After spending quality time with 'Strange Corgsky,' I found out why he is so special. He reminded me a lot of another Dog Furry – my bestie David 'DaiCymru' German Shepherd who's so dear to me. Strangey is a beautiful young man who's actually a couple years younger than my oldest nephew 'Ian,' went to university and started his career - with something many younger folks don't show or spotlight on their resume – DETAIL, DEDICATION AND DETERMINATION. Strangey (His real name is Michael) is an embodiment of the three principles. He has a great personality and his sense of humor is refreshing. A Kind Doggo... I was blown away by him, and it's rare for me to make a comment like this about someone. Along with David 'DaiCymru,' I hope to keep in touch with Michael 'Strangey' by continuing to meet along life's journey. I wished Strange and David had resided in California, instead of England or Wales - but at least we can reach each other by social media technology. I'm NOT going to lose contact with these amazing men. After we spent time in private, 'Strange' was getting ready to attend a couple of parties on another floor inside Hilton Metropole. I asked if it was okay for me to join him? He said 'sure' and off we went. This was going to be different than the disaster of 'Midwest Fuck Fest' in 2022 - Strange allowed me to come with him to an '80's Retro Room Party' on another floor. He brought a handheld Yamaha keyboard and was playing synch tunes in the hallway while walking to the elevator. Strangey plays music too? COOL! We arrived at the room party, and Strange gave his custom greeting 'AHROO!!!' Heck, I learned new 'Furry Slang...' and the room was PACKED AND HOT!! The Host of this party  Skawinski wore a long hair wig like a friend I knew of in the late 1980's when we used to go to Heavy Metal Rock concerts on The Sunset Strip in Hollywood. Strange left to go to another party, however I decided to stay with the aging 'long haired' rockers. Just like FWA's 'Bear Parties', I stuck around until the very end. Booze was freely flowing, and one party goer ended up consuming just a little too much alcohol. Skavi and his roomie helped the party goer along with assistance. BTW, I didn't drink as much at this party, as I stopped drinking in fursuit after PAWCON in San Jose in 2022 when I almost barfed in my bearhead. That was my cue.. no more drinking due to age and knowing if I damage Joe Bear, it's game over. I thanked Skavi and left the party to return back to 'moxy' before 2am, took a cold shower and hibernated. *MON. MAY 26TH – Birmingham/CONFUZZLED 2025 'DAY FOUR' This was our last full day of 'Confuzzled 2025,' and we were gonna make the most of it!! It was 'Memorial Day' back home in The U.S., while our British cousins enjoyed their Monday off known as 'U.K. Bank Holiday,' which is a type of national public holiday when schools, offices and governmental institutions are closed. So, many attendees had that extra day off to enjoy the convention in earnest. We woke up a bit later on Monday, after 11:00am as I partied the night before into the wee hours until 2am and then after shower and cleaning the sweat inside my bear head, I finally went to bed after 3:30am. David went out around 10:00am to take a train from NEC to 'Greggs' Bakery Store and brought a pack of donuts to share and a premade sandwich combo with Walker Crisps and a Coke. What a good guy my Shep truly is. Dogs and Huskies are this Grizzly Bear's BEST friends. After lunch, around 12:00pm we headed out from 'moxy' Hotel in 'Normie' clothing to Hilton Metropole to take some more pictures before I came back to get into fursuit, my plan was to wear Joe Bear continuously for 8 hours on my last day of CFz. I got to see Strange hang out with others outside Hilton Metropole's entrance as he would soon dance for a trophy in Confuzzled's Dance Competition to be held later in the afternoon at 4:00pm. My only regret was that I wasn't in fursuit at noon... I did return to 'moxy' with David an hour later at 1:00pm to 'suit up' for two events occuring prior to Dance Comp - “Dragons, Dragons and More Dragons” at 1:30pm and the popular 'Fat Fur' Meetup called “Bellies In Fur” held in 'Salibury' Room after 3:00pm. WHAT A BLAST I HAD AT THESE EVENTS!!At “Dragons,” David got some great pictures with a Dragon fursuiter friend, who is also from Wales. The National Flag of Wales consists of a red dragon on a green and white field. Like Our Grizzly Bear on California's State Flag, it represent identity, independence and strength. “Y Ddraig goch ddyry cychwyn” ('The Red Dragon Leads The Way') The 'Dragon' fursuiters all walked out to the field near the 'moxy' and the lake for a group photo. There were a LOT of beautiful fursuits in that one photo. I got in on the last picture with their fans and other non-dragon fursuiters. After the photo, It started to get very cloudy with a chance of rain. With limited time remaining, we headed back to Hilton via the rear entrance to check out The “Bellies In Fur” Panel. It was a very enjoyable event, with many people requesting 'bear hugs' alongside great photo opportunities – they also provided lots of free snack foods and beverages. Though I couldn't eat in fursuit (I stay hydrated by drinking ONLY water in fursuit) with David's help, I grabbed the small bags of Walkers Crisps and 'DaiCymru' packed it in his bag for enjoyment later when we returned to 'moxy.' It was so cool to have 'DaiCymru' snap a picture of 'Joe Bear' alongside 'CFz' Con Chair  Fioxy at this panel. We left the 'Fat Fur' panel early to get over to Confuzzled's Fursuit Dance Competition in Main Events. Once we arrived, David left as he didn't want to stay to watch the almost two hour event. I ended up being seated in the third row in front of the stage. I had originally planned to attend this very popular event on the con schedule. It's a hightlight of 'Confuzzled' overall and wanted to see for myself how U.K. & European Furry Dance Competitions differ from the American ones. I usually attend Furry Dance Competitions when I know of a friend who's a finalist and performing in the event. I've seen friends like  ReoGrayFox,  Neo-RevenG, Motomo21, and  TerraKun perform at 'Further Confusion,' 'FWA,' 'BLFC' and 'Anthrocon. Bemani just performed at 'FWA 2025' Dance Comp two weeks earlier, and I cheered him on!! It made much more importance once I met  Strangey and how I got to know him. Of course, I would attend to 'Cheer Him On' Loud and Proud!!! I always tell Bemani that he's such a 'Popufur' and he HATES IT!! I don't know if Strangey will get pissed off if I call him that, as I believe he's England's version of 'Popufur'... I better not start. But, nevertheless he's one fine Dancing Dog!! CFz 2025's Fursuit Dance Competition was quite thrilling to watch, with a variety of talented fursuit dancers showing their moves and delighting the audience. The format was similar to Dance Competitions at U.S. Furry Conventions with a Host or Presenter to introduce the acts on stage, alongside a three judge panel to critique each performance and a final vote to decide the top three dancers at the conclusion of the event. This year's CFz Dance Competition was broadcast globally on www.Confuzzled.tv. I felt each dancer did a wonderful job, as each performer proved to us why they're on that stage. The two hours went very fast, as I cheered each dancer and at certain times I stood up to cheer, not knowing that I probably pissed off A/V handling the broadcast. It was held in Hilton's 'Main Events' Ballroom, but a much smaller room compared to 'Atrium Stage' for FWA's Fursuit Dance Competition at their host hotel 'Atlanta Marriott Marquis.' FWA's 'Main Events' Space is FOUR TIMES LARGER than Hilton Metropole's and we were densely packed in that room. I had grabbed a good seat in the third row up front by arriving early, but I didn't realize the TV cameras in rear were behind me and during the telecast, you could see my big bear head in the audience. Watch it on www.confuzzled.tv under 'Archives' for 2025 and 'Dance Competition'. When Strange's dance performance came up at the 80 minute mark of the program, I realized why he is one of the best 'Dancer Furs' I've ever known personally in my 11 years of attending furry conventions. He put in a lot of effort and it paid off... Strange was 'well dressed' for his performance (LOVED his coat!) the music selection perfect and it flowed along exquisitely well during his choreography-style dance piece. The judges loved it and I did too!! When the awards were announced at the conclusion of the dance competition, with 'Mason Buontoro' taking 3rd Place, My new doggo friend 'Strange'  Strangey won 2nd Place for his prolific dance performance while 'Panriel'  Faolan won 1st Place for his extraordinary dance performance. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS!!! After the show ended, I went up on stage in fursuit to congratulate Strangey and the other winners - then departed Main Events to meet up with DaiCymru Shep for one more walkaround through con space for the last time at CFz. Just after 7:30pm on Monday evening, Joe Bear's fursuiting at Confuzzled came to an end. After saying a few goodbyes to a couple of Furries we met from the front entrance, we came back inside and walked the hallways for one final time in my bear before exiting from the rear doors back to 'moxy' Hotel. I was in Joe Bear for 7+ hours on Memorial Day Monday at Confuzzled. It Was A Good Con... We headed back to our 'moxy' room to get out of my sweaty bear, took a quick shower before heading down to the hotel bar for the complimentary Pepperoni Pizza while David used his drink coupon for a Margarita. He bought me Pepsi to go with the pizza – and our pie was large enough to satisfy the both of us. After dinner, we both headed back to Hilton for our last night at Confuzzled 2025. It was not over...yet. I had a meetup with another amazing Furry whom I just met the day before. Tocs 'The Red Panda' and 'yours truly' met in the lobby after David departed to meet up with 'Huskyteer' in the bar. TOCS took me up to his room and we spent time together. We first met during the “Bellies In Fur' meetup, and we agreed to find time to chat and get to know each other. He's a very intelligent and super sweet guy – he moved to The U.K. from his native South Africa and eventually became a school teacher north of Birmingham. His fursuit was so cool - though he is classified as a 'Red Panda' its all BLUE!! Of course, Blue is MY favorite color. Maybe that's why I find so many of my best Fursuiter friends are 'Blue?' After we spent 'quality time' together, TOCS went to a 'bear party' that (sadly) I wasn't invited.. But, unlike 'MFF' - I continued my con night by going to Main Events to catch 'DASPRiD' Hard Rocking Dance, then a final visit to Strange's room to take a picture of him holding his CFz Dance Competition trophy before I said farewell to Confuzzled and The Hilton Metropole Birmingham. I caught DaiCymru and Huskyteer at the hotel bar while in transit to DASPRiD's Concert, and I said my goodbye to Huskyteer. After the quick meet, I left as fast I could to get to Main Events for D.J. DASPRiD's 'Hard Rock' set past Midnight on Tuesday Morning, May 27th. I WITNESSED FURRIES DANCING, MOSH PITTING EACH OTHER AND EVEN ONE FURRY EVEN FALLING TO THE FLOOR, BANGING HIS FIST DOWN WHILE I FILMED HIM LITERALLY SINGING THE LYRICS TO ONE SONG PLAYED DURING THE HIGH OCTAGE ROCK SET. I never would've thought something like this could happen here at a con in Britain, and was pleasantly pleased. Ironically, I noticed much the same reaction from attendees two weeks earlier during the Sunday night 'Dead Dog' 'Hard Rock' DJ music set in “CLUB FWA” Secondary Dance Space. The excitement of 'DJ DASPRiD' music set here and the FWA Rock Dance Concert proved to me that both cons can play Rock and succeed with a good following of fans. To add, The British Furries here were true PARTY ANIMALS - just as WILD, LOUD AND PROUD as we American Furries. It was a good sendoff for Joe Bear. I got off the 3rd Floor elevator a little past 1:00am to head over to Strangey's room. We agreed on Telegram that I could come up to his room after the dance to get a picture of him holding his Confuzzled 2025 Dance Competition 2nd Place Trophy. He got his fursuit head and paws on and held his trophy for me to snap some cool shots. I thanked him and gave him the biggest 'Bear Hug' I could muster. I told him to keep in touch, and he agreed he would. As I left The Hilton Metropole lobby for the last time and bidded farewell to Confuzzled, I felt a little sadness that the con was winding down, but I also felt grateful with lots of gratitude for the people I met during this journey. The Furries I met here are truly good people, as they made my con a truly 'UNFORGETTABLE' experience! I plan on keeping in touch with DaiCymru, Strange and TOCS over the next few years by strengthening my friendships with them from 'Across The Pond.' *TUES. MAY 27TH – Birmingham, England to London, England As soon as I got back into the room, I started doing a tradition dating back to the first time I received Joe Bear at 'FWA 2019' by spending the early morning hours cleaning my fursuit head to place inside the blue IKEA carrybag, while cleaning the rest of my fursuit and packing it nicely in the large American Tourister 29' Luggage. While David slept, I completed my fursuit packing before 5:00am – and after a final shower, I went to bed before sun-up.I woke up around 10:30am to see David gone – he had left to go to Hilton to say his 'goodbyes' before returning to the room. He left some donuts for me so I could eat as I watched the Furries below from our hotel window scurry as heavy rain made travelling difficult. Joe Bear was already packed and ready to leave Birmingham and Confuzzled after four fast-paced days. Once David arrived before 12 Noon, we were ready to check out and race with our luggage inside NEC to catch the Train and head out of town. Once we boarded, we departed NEC before 1pm with a quick transfer onto The British Rail 'Long Distance' Train from Birmingham International to London Euston. We arrived into London after a very crowded and cramped 2 ½ hour trip. It was raining and windy, not fun at all while pulling your large fursuit suitcase on the streets of London's St. Pancras area. DaiCymru did the hard work of pulling my large suitcase (Thank You!!!) while I handled my bearhead in his blue IKEA bag while holding an umbrella and carrying a backpack while gusty winds were knocking me around. No fun at all. We scurried into nearby London St. Pancras International Train Station to cover ourselves from the rain and wind. Our hotel was just on the opposite end of this massively large train station, where I visited 'The London Underground' for souvenirs to bring back home. **MIND THE GAP**The rain had finally let up, allowing us to enjoy the three minute walk from St. Pancras Train Station to our hotel on a street alongside other small boutique inns and lodges. We checked in at 'Hotel Meridiana' and we received 'Room 1' – right on the ground level. We were Blessed. Once we checked in around 3:30pm, I felt a sense of relief. The room was the type of lodging that Dad and I experienced exactly 25 years ago when we visited London's Westminster area, to visit Big Ben and The U.K. Houses of Parliament. British Airways' 'The London Eye' Wheel was our top attraction, and Dad recorded video while I snapped a ton of Canon 35mm pictures during our visit in October, 2000. The room at 'Hotel Meridiana' was small, but modern and comfortable. I took a nap after exhaustion from lack of sleep and traveling from Birmingham. A few hours later, I woke up and we departed the hotel to catch 'The London Underground' to 'Hyde Park Corner' and walk over to The ORIGINAL 'Hard Rock Cafe,' the one that Dad and 'yours truly' visited in 2000 & 2001.After 24 years, I had finally returned. The London 'Hard Rock Cafe' had been completely renovated since the last visit in October, 2001 (Exactly one month after the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks at Home.) Many of the guitars and exhibits were still there, including Eric Clapton's Guitar and Jimi's Dazziling Display of Guitars moved toward the front for all to see. It was cool to dine right next to Joe Walsh's guitar on the wall when he played for 'The Eagles' and a Gold Record of 'Hotel California' to the opposite end where our table was located. Coincidence? After we finished our meal and paid a quick visit next door to 'Hard Rock Cafe Store' for some gifts to bring back to L.A., we headed on 'The London Underground' for our subway ride to 'Trafalgar Square' (Charing Cross Station) and a short walk to 'SHERLOCK HOLMES PUB AND MUSEUM' to enjoy the last night in The United Kingdom with my dearest friend David 'DaiCymru' Lakin while paying tribute to my late father 'Sid Goria' with a toast. My Dad LOVED coming here when we visited London almost 25 years earlier!! It was recently remodeled and the classic outdoor signage changed (bummer..) Still, the bar was still there as I remembered with a wider selection of beers and ales on tap. The collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia still graced the walls of the bar, but sadly the video games and dart board were long gone and removed. Though we visited 'Sherlock Holmes' to honor my late father, it was also a celebratory time to conclude 'The Trip of The Decade' with our travels throughout England, Wales and by attending 'Confuzzled' Furry Convention in Birmingham. This moment in time was very special and something I'll cherish for the remainder of my life. We paid a toast to my Dad... and I truly felt that his spirit was with us in the room. We left 'Sherlock Holmes' pub when it closed at 11:00pm and walked back to London Underground's 'Charing Cross Station' to take the subway back to 'St. Pancras Station' and strolled the three blocks to our hotel. Just like that, Joe Bear's U.K./Confuzzled Trip had come to an end after TEN AMAZING DAYS!!! Photos were taken and Memories made on this trip to last a lifetime. *WED. MAY 28TH – London, England to Los Angeles, CA (End of Trip) We had our luggage packed and ready to go when we checked out from 'Hotel Meridiana' before 9:00am for the quick walk to London Underground 'King's Cross' St. Pancras Station to get on the subway for the 25 minute ride to Heathrow Airport and my return flight on United Flight #935 (LHR-LAX). This was the moment when David and I said 'goodbye' as he wouldn't be on the Underground rail to Heathrow. I gave 'DaiCymru' the biggest 'Bear Hug' I could give, and wished him well on his travel back to Port Talbot. I was able to ride 'The Tube' to Heathrow and then board my United flight for the 11 hour journey back home. In closing, this was 'The Trip of The Decade!!' for Joe G. Bear Four people stood out – Actually 3 Dogs and 1 Red Panda. *One Welch-speaking German Shephard with the kindest heart and spirit *One proflic writer and 'Huskyteer' who was just 'Intellectually Stimulating' *One energetic and AMAZINGLY loving 'Dancing Dog' with a lust for life *One Red Panda who's actually BLUE with a gentle heart and full of grace Thank You for those who read through the entire journal. Here's a Milk Bone... These 10 days wouldn't been possible without the help of my dear friend, host and roomie David 'DaiCymru' Lakin. Thank You for allowing me to be with you and being a part of your life. The memories we made will stay with me. BEAR HUGS!! JOE G. BEAR