Ever have a moment when you psyche yourself up with excitement then, second guess yourself when you arrive to your destination? That is how it was for me on the first day of the convention, when I retrieved my bad at registration solo. Felt like a salmon swimming upstream through a vast current of attendees. Part of me wanted to chicken out because I had no clue where I was going. That night, reminded me of when I was 6 years old, trotting a pony on my first lesson. It spooked and cantered around the arena. I was surprised I made it around the arena once then fell off. It was then I had to decide whether to be a wuss and not get back on or toughen up and show it I was not afraid of it. My will or stubbornness won that round just as it reminded me I can do this convention.

I can do smaller conventions like FurFright/Furpacolypse or End of World Con with ease, whether I knew anyone there or not. However, I have not attended a convention of Anime Boston’s magnitude since Anthrocon, my first furry convention. The last time I attended Anime Boston was 10 years ago and I knew I did not want to miss it this year.

I am ashamed of myself for almost chickening out and cancel going because I was attending it solo. It’s funny, I have not felt that anxiety since college. Remembering some of my friends were vending their art, glasses, etc in both Artist Alley and Dealer’s room reminded me I was not alone and even though I would not see them until sometime later, knowing they would be there gave me comfort. Their presence in the building lifted my spirits considerably. I cannot explain it. I do not know why I get nervous attending large conventions by myself. I never had that problem before. My teenage self would have disappointed at my deplorable cowardice. I am thankful I decided to face my “fears.”

During Saturday and Sunday I had a blast hanging out with some cool peeps (alphabetical order),  MajikCraft,  Sandy_Surf, and  Stormslegacy. It was freeing to not have a fixed panel schedule, aside from wanting to see the Masquerade. Running around, seeing where you end up was the best way to go at the convention.

I had fun cosplaying as Kim Possible with my little Rufus, even though I wish I could have fursuited there. Timing was a concern. Since I was not staying at any of the hotels, I had no place to change and did not want to impose on friends. Both the Masquerade and Cosplay Chess had enteraining skits and elaborate cosplaying attire. I helped Majik at her booth and sewing cupcakes panel. I helped her attendees and made some non-furry friednds. I still need to finish the cupcake I tried to craft. After her panel and taking down her booth, our motley crew went out for some deliscious sushi. Score!! Good friends and good sushi, I cannot complain.

Overall, I am most happy I attending the convention and look forward to it next year. ^_^