Let me just start out by saying I really didn't know what to expect for this convention. I'd heard mixed things; some said it was too big, too overwhelming. Others said it was amazing. I myself have never been outside of Canada, other than a few trips to Florida. I'd heard good things about Pittsburgh, and enough of my friends were going that I decided it would be worth my while to give it a shot.

Clumzy, Vis, Sparx, Neerren and I all carpooled to Anthrocon together. It was a tight fit with all of our luggage, but we made it work. The drive down was pretty long, but good company made the time fly by. Before we knew it, we'd crossed the boarder and were well on our way to see our fluffy friends. Luckily they didn't give us a hassle crossing over.

I can't believe how cheap everything is in the States! From McDonalds meals to alcohol, everything is at least half the price it is in Canada. They even sell beer in convenient stores!

The Hampton was an amazing hotel. The service was wonderful, the rooms were spacious, the staff was sweet, and you can't go wrong with complimentary breakfast, free parking, a free coffee stand and free popcorn right from the popcorn maker. Our roommates were really great as well. Morpheus and Aero were really great, and I hope I get the chance to chill with them again.

Pittsburgh is such a beautiful city. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but it was better than I imagined. And the locals there were all so nice! And the fact that they all love the fandom is a huge bonus. The second we got there, all you could see were people walking around with tails and ears, and fursuiters marching down the streets. It was incredible. I've never been to a place that was so accepting before.

The convention center/Westin were huge. I couldn't believe the amount of space Anthrocon took up! There were tons of rooms for the various panels and activities. The Dealer's Room was massive as well. It took a while to just look around and absorb everything. Clumzy took me to the roof of the convention center, and let me tell you, the view was spectacular. After seeing Pittsburgh, I never want to see Toronto again, haha.

I met so many amazing new people at this convention, and I got to hang out with some old friends as well. A few of the artists I've been following on FA for a while were there, and I'm super happy that I got to meet and commission them. I was finally introduced to 2 The Ranting Gryphon and Uncle Kage's comic genius. I'm glad I attended their shows with everyone.

Tonic was our hot spot; we ate there almost every day. The staff were really open and friendly, and the food was delicious (I HIGHLY recommend the Apple Burger). Even Fernando's didn't disappoint. Between the Lasagna Wrap and the Buffalo Chicken Pizza, my stomach was satisfied.

The dances were really fun, especially in suit. The dance competition and floor wars were really great, too. There are so many amazing dancers in our fandom, and I love watching them all perform.

The highlight of this trip, however, was getting to meet Jim Cummings, the voice actor of my all-time favourite cartoon character, Darkwing Duck. He was such a nice, down to earth guy and was really pleasant to talk to.

Honestly, I couldn't have asked for a better weekend. I had the time of my life at AC and I am really looking forward to going again next year. Thanks so much to everyone who hung out with me and talked to me, you're all amazing and I sincerely hope we meet again soon! All in all AC was one of the best vacations I've had and I look forward to doing it all over in the future!

And to anyone I met that wants to keep in touch, please feel free to add me on Twitter JackalopeKisses!