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FC Meme - cause all the cool kids are doing it
Posted 10 years agoIt'd be nice if I could be consistent about these, but I end up copypastaing a new one each time. <-- I blatantly stole that line from my friend Vince. It's still very true.
--Where are you staying?
The Hilton. Did it last year, liked it. Aside from the tree in the elevator. You know...
--What day are you getting there?
Wednesday. Flight gets in around 1:00 or so
--Who will you be rooming with?
and 
--Who will you hang out with during the convention?
Who knows!
--Are there any panels you might be attending?
Possibly - not sure yet. The panels arent' listed on the website yet.
--Are you attending any stage or public performances?
Anything with
and possibly a few of the dances.
--Will you be suiting?
I plan on it. Hopefully more than last year. I'll be bringing Chase (black and white husky). Adderley won't be ready by FC.
--How old are you?
Over 21 baby!
--How tall are you?
5'6"
--Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Married! We're in an open relationship, and have been for a few years.
--Can I talk to you?
Yes, but I think I'm far more entertaining when I'm tipsy.
--Can I touch you?
Let's reword this to "Can I hug you?" - Yes!
--How can I find you?
I'm like the only guy with a human as my badge - Brexton! Or in fursuit as Chase.
--Can I visit your room?
Nothing against you, but no. My room is where I go for some "me time."
--Can I buy you drinks?
Sure...
--Can I give you stuff?
Depends on what it is...
--Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Two different things. Hugs, yes. Snuggling... we'll see.
--What about more intimate stuff?
Again, depends. Definitely not right off the bat though.
--What’s your goal for the con this year?
To meet people and have fun!
--Are you nice?
Apparently, I'm known for being a "genuinely nice guy." Not sure what they mean by that...
--How long are you going?
Wednesday thru Monday
--If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Call my name, "Brexton!" You may also jump up and down yelling, "Oooh! Oooh!"
--Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Probably dealer room or common areas. I hope to make it to the party floor - though it was too crowded for me last year.
--What/where will you be eating?
No specific plans other than Bdubs!! And that's Thursday some time.
--Can I come with you for food/fun etc?
Believe it or not, the answer to this works better if I come with you. i don't know why people just don't think of this. Don't try to invite yourself - ask them to join you!
--Can I take your picture?
You can take Chase's picture all you want! Brexton is camera shy.
--How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
Even if I am, I'm usually not rude about it. I'll just say something like "Now's not a good time." At that point, just try again later.
--Personality Type?
At this point, I don't even know; ask my Awesome Friends (on my user page). I can be real quiet - doesn't mean I'm bored or shy; sometimes I'm content just spectating.
--Where are you staying?
The Hilton. Did it last year, liked it. Aside from the tree in the elevator. You know...
--What day are you getting there?
Wednesday. Flight gets in around 1:00 or so
--Who will you be rooming with?
and 
--Who will you hang out with during the convention?
Who knows!
--Are there any panels you might be attending?
Possibly - not sure yet. The panels arent' listed on the website yet.
--Are you attending any stage or public performances?
Anything with
and possibly a few of the dances.--Will you be suiting?
I plan on it. Hopefully more than last year. I'll be bringing Chase (black and white husky). Adderley won't be ready by FC.
--How old are you?
Over 21 baby!
--How tall are you?
5'6"
--Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
Married! We're in an open relationship, and have been for a few years.
--Can I talk to you?
Yes, but I think I'm far more entertaining when I'm tipsy.
--Can I touch you?
Let's reword this to "Can I hug you?" - Yes!
--How can I find you?
I'm like the only guy with a human as my badge - Brexton! Or in fursuit as Chase.
--Can I visit your room?
Nothing against you, but no. My room is where I go for some "me time."
--Can I buy you drinks?
Sure...
--Can I give you stuff?
Depends on what it is...
--Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Two different things. Hugs, yes. Snuggling... we'll see.
--What about more intimate stuff?
Again, depends. Definitely not right off the bat though.
--What’s your goal for the con this year?
To meet people and have fun!
--Are you nice?
Apparently, I'm known for being a "genuinely nice guy." Not sure what they mean by that...
--How long are you going?
Wednesday thru Monday
--If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Call my name, "Brexton!" You may also jump up and down yelling, "Oooh! Oooh!"
--Where will you be most of the time during the days?
Probably dealer room or common areas. I hope to make it to the party floor - though it was too crowded for me last year.
--What/where will you be eating?
No specific plans other than Bdubs!! And that's Thursday some time.
--Can I come with you for food/fun etc?
Believe it or not, the answer to this works better if I come with you. i don't know why people just don't think of this. Don't try to invite yourself - ask them to join you!
--Can I take your picture?
You can take Chase's picture all you want! Brexton is camera shy.
--How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
Even if I am, I'm usually not rude about it. I'll just say something like "Now's not a good time." At that point, just try again later.
--Personality Type?
At this point, I don't even know; ask my Awesome Friends (on my user page). I can be real quiet - doesn't mean I'm bored or shy; sometimes I'm content just spectating.
New Chase Artwork
Posted 10 years agoI commissioned the very talented 
v for a piece of Chase looking more like he's supposed to - suave and slightly rakish as opposed to "full derp husky." :)
http://www.furaffinity.net/view/18150149/
Once Adderley's suit comes in, I'm planning on putting Chase into storage for about a year. I want to recommission his head to capture the expression and attitude he's always supposed to have had. Plus, Adderley was always meant to be my main character - the one that's the most "me."
v for a piece of Chase looking more like he's supposed to - suave and slightly rakish as opposed to "full derp husky." :)http://www.furaffinity.net/view/18150149/
Once Adderley's suit comes in, I'm planning on putting Chase into storage for about a year. I want to recommission his head to capture the expression and attitude he's always supposed to have had. Plus, Adderley was always meant to be my main character - the one that's the most "me."
Vaping Furs - Your Attention Please
Posted 10 years agoVāpaws is a juice company that's just starting up. They're specifically for furries, by furries. I'm positive about this as I'm one of the founders.
In order to decide which of 35+ flavors should be put into production, they've been running taste tests all over SoCal. response has been overwhelmingly positive - which is a great thing! (but it doesn't help narrow down which flavors should be up for sale).
You can help by filling out this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PZC9YBR Just let them know what you think of the various flavor concepts.
And please pass this along to any of your friends that vape. They really want to get as much feedback from the furry community as possible.
Thanks!
( www.twitter.com/vapaws Website: www.vapaws.net )
In order to decide which of 35+ flavors should be put into production, they've been running taste tests all over SoCal. response has been overwhelmingly positive - which is a great thing! (but it doesn't help narrow down which flavors should be up for sale).
You can help by filling out this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PZC9YBR Just let them know what you think of the various flavor concepts.
And please pass this along to any of your friends that vape. They really want to get as much feedback from the furry community as possible.
Thanks!
( www.twitter.com/vapaws Website: www.vapaws.net )
'Cause I like to bandwagon...
Posted 10 years agoNinety-Nine Questions Meme - answered as Brexton, not Chase. Apparently I did this in March - kinda interesting to compare the two since I did this one without looking at the old one.
1:Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?
Open simply because that's the way I leave them. If they were closed, I wouldn't open them.
2:Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?
Only if it's as good/better than what I have at home. When at Disney World, I always take them.
3:Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?
Bottom sheet is fitted tight, top sheets are all over the place. I guess that describes my thoughts on other things that are bottoms/tops as well.
4:Have you ever stolen a street sign before?
I don't remember. I think I nabbed a stop sign that had been driven over...
5:Do you like to use post-it notes?
Yeah, especially when brainstorming. Or just leaving notes for people in the apartment.
6:Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?
Not regularly, but it's happened once or twice.
7:Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?
Bees, I guess. Not all of them will sting and I'm not allergic. Now, if it's a sexy ol' bear... that's different.
8:Do you have freckles?
No, but I have a Freckle (one of my fantastic friends).
9:Do you always smile for pictures?
Mostly. So I guess, no, I don't *always* smile for pictures.
10:What is your biggest pet peeve?
People who are deliberately dishonest (including just not bringing something up) for social reasons. To their credit, they usually think they're being polite.
11:Do you ever count your steps when you walk?
It's happened once or twice.
12:Have you ever peed in the woods?
Yup.
13:What about pooped in the woods?
Nope.
14:Do you ever dance even if there's no music playing?
I've been known to do the PT Cruiser a few times.
15:Do you chew your pens and pencils?
Not really
16:How many people have you slept with this week?
1. 2 if you really mean sleep.
17:What size is your bed?
Queen
18:What is your Song of the week?
Blah Blah Blah by Kesha
19:Is it okay for guys to wear pink?
Of course.
20:Do you still watch cartoons?
Of course.
21:Whats your least favorite movie?
Transformers (the first one by Michael Bay)
22:Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?
Why on earth would I tell you that? It'd be in a secret, hidden place.
23:If you're a girl, bra size? If you're a guy, pants size?
36
24:What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
Hot Mustard
25:What is your favorite food?
The edible kind. Seriously - I like a lot of cuisines.
26:What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
None. Eventually, I'd be noticing bits that stick out and wouldn't be able to ignore them.
27:Last person you kissed/kissed you?
Sport.
28:Were you ever a boy/girl scout?
Yes.
29:Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?
Ever?, yeah.
30:When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?
Can't remember.
31:Can you change the oil on a car?
Add oil, yes. Change oil, not really. I suppose I am able to, I just don't know how.
32:Ever gotten a speeding ticket?
I don't think so.
33:Ever ran out of gas?
No.
34:Favorite kind of sandwich?
Reuben!! A real, NY Reuben.
35:Best thing to eat for breakfast?
Pancakes.
36:What is your usual bedtime?
Lately, 9:30-10:00
37:Are you lazy?
I don't think so, but others might say yes.
38:When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
A lot of different things. Headless Werewolf, Batman, Green Lantern, etc.
39:What is your Chinese astrological sign?
Snake. Apparently, the Cock is my friend.
40:Are you horny?
Virtually always.
41:Do you have any magazine subscriptions?
Not phsyically. I have a few digital magazine subscriptions.
42:Which are better legos or lincoln logs?
Legos. Does *anyone* answer Lincoln Logs?
43:Are you stubborn?
Yes.
44:Who is better...Leno or Letterman?
Leno, only because Letterman's bitterness puts me off. I don't care about either.
45:Ever watch soap operas?
My senior year of high school, I watched one for a few months.
46:Are you afraid of heights?
Sort of. I have a fear of falling. People with true acrophobia get anxiety even knowing they're off the ground. It only happens to me if there is a visible way for me to fall off. Elevators, fine. Glass elevators, not fine.
47:Do you sing in the car?
I make noise in time to music I play in the car. No one would call it singing.
48:Do you sing in the shower?
No.
49:Do you dance in the car?
Yup.
50:Ever used a gun?
Yup. Handgun and a rifle or two.
51:Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?
A long time ago.
52:Do you think musicals are cheesy?
Yes, but I like them anyway.
53:Is Christmas stressful?
Not more so that other times of the year.
54:Ever eat a pirogi?
Not knowingly.
55:Favorite type of fruit pie?
Apple
56:Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?
Teacher, lawyer, fireman
57:Do you believe in ghosts?
I allow for the possibility, but not in the standard, visible form of a dead person.
58:Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?
Yes.
59:Take a vitamin daily?
I take a "daily vitamin", but not every day.
60:Wear slippers?
Sometimes
61:Wear a bath robe?
Rarely
62:What do you wear to bed?
Absolutely nothing.
63:First concert?
Either the Go-Gos or the Bangles. Can't remember.
64:Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?
Target
65:Nike or Adidas?
Don't know, don't care.
66:Cheetos Or Fritos?
Fritos
67:Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?
Peanuts
68:Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?
No
69:Ever take dance lessons?
Yes
70:Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?
My current spouse does customer service.
71:Can you curl your tongue?
No.
72:Ever won a spelling bee?
Yes - classroom.
73:Have you ever cried because you were so happy?
Often.
74:Own any record albums?
Yes.
75:Own a record player?
Not anymore.
76:Regularly burn incense?
No
77:Ever been in love?
Many times, in many ways, at many different levels. There isn't just one kind of love - that took a while to really understand.
78:Who would you like to see in concert?
Kesha
79:What was the last concert you saw?
Cher?
80:Hot tea or cold tea?
Iced Tea - like 30 degrees cold (Fahrenheit)
81:Tea or coffee?
Tea
82:Sugar or snickerdoodles?
Sugar
83:Can you swim well?
Enough to get buy.
84:Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?
Yes.
85:Are you patient?
Not really
86:DJ or band, at a wedding?
DJ
87:Ever won a contest?
Yes
88:Ever have plastic surgery?
Not yet
89:Which are better black or green olives?
Black
90:Can you knit or crochet?
I used to be able to do both - haven't tried in years.
91:Best room for a fireplace?
Living room
92:Do you want to get married?
Been there, done that.
93:If married, how long have you been married?
We've been together 15 years. Married just about two months.
94:Who was your HS crush?
A girl on drill team and a guy in the rifle line.
95:Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?
No.
96:Do you have kids?
Not in the traditional manner. But there are two people I think of as my kids in many ways.
97:Do you want kids?
Not at this time.
98:What's your favorite color?
Green. Dark, emerald green.
99:Do you miss anyone right now?
Yes.
1:Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?
Open simply because that's the way I leave them. If they were closed, I wouldn't open them.
2:Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?
Only if it's as good/better than what I have at home. When at Disney World, I always take them.
3:Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?
Bottom sheet is fitted tight, top sheets are all over the place. I guess that describes my thoughts on other things that are bottoms/tops as well.
4:Have you ever stolen a street sign before?
I don't remember. I think I nabbed a stop sign that had been driven over...
5:Do you like to use post-it notes?
Yeah, especially when brainstorming. Or just leaving notes for people in the apartment.
6:Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?
Not regularly, but it's happened once or twice.
7:Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?
Bees, I guess. Not all of them will sting and I'm not allergic. Now, if it's a sexy ol' bear... that's different.
8:Do you have freckles?
No, but I have a Freckle (one of my fantastic friends).
9:Do you always smile for pictures?
Mostly. So I guess, no, I don't *always* smile for pictures.
10:What is your biggest pet peeve?
People who are deliberately dishonest (including just not bringing something up) for social reasons. To their credit, they usually think they're being polite.
11:Do you ever count your steps when you walk?
It's happened once or twice.
12:Have you ever peed in the woods?
Yup.
13:What about pooped in the woods?
Nope.
14:Do you ever dance even if there's no music playing?
I've been known to do the PT Cruiser a few times.
15:Do you chew your pens and pencils?
Not really
16:How many people have you slept with this week?
1. 2 if you really mean sleep.
17:What size is your bed?
Queen
18:What is your Song of the week?
Blah Blah Blah by Kesha
19:Is it okay for guys to wear pink?
Of course.
20:Do you still watch cartoons?
Of course.
21:Whats your least favorite movie?
Transformers (the first one by Michael Bay)
22:Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?
Why on earth would I tell you that? It'd be in a secret, hidden place.
23:If you're a girl, bra size? If you're a guy, pants size?
36
24:What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
Hot Mustard
25:What is your favorite food?
The edible kind. Seriously - I like a lot of cuisines.
26:What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
None. Eventually, I'd be noticing bits that stick out and wouldn't be able to ignore them.
27:Last person you kissed/kissed you?
Sport.
28:Were you ever a boy/girl scout?
Yes.
29:Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?
Ever?, yeah.
30:When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?
Can't remember.
31:Can you change the oil on a car?
Add oil, yes. Change oil, not really. I suppose I am able to, I just don't know how.
32:Ever gotten a speeding ticket?
I don't think so.
33:Ever ran out of gas?
No.
34:Favorite kind of sandwich?
Reuben!! A real, NY Reuben.
35:Best thing to eat for breakfast?
Pancakes.
36:What is your usual bedtime?
Lately, 9:30-10:00
37:Are you lazy?
I don't think so, but others might say yes.
38:When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
A lot of different things. Headless Werewolf, Batman, Green Lantern, etc.
39:What is your Chinese astrological sign?
Snake. Apparently, the Cock is my friend.
40:Are you horny?
Virtually always.
41:Do you have any magazine subscriptions?
Not phsyically. I have a few digital magazine subscriptions.
42:Which are better legos or lincoln logs?
Legos. Does *anyone* answer Lincoln Logs?
43:Are you stubborn?
Yes.
44:Who is better...Leno or Letterman?
Leno, only because Letterman's bitterness puts me off. I don't care about either.
45:Ever watch soap operas?
My senior year of high school, I watched one for a few months.
46:Are you afraid of heights?
Sort of. I have a fear of falling. People with true acrophobia get anxiety even knowing they're off the ground. It only happens to me if there is a visible way for me to fall off. Elevators, fine. Glass elevators, not fine.
47:Do you sing in the car?
I make noise in time to music I play in the car. No one would call it singing.
48:Do you sing in the shower?
No.
49:Do you dance in the car?
Yup.
50:Ever used a gun?
Yup. Handgun and a rifle or two.
51:Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?
A long time ago.
52:Do you think musicals are cheesy?
Yes, but I like them anyway.
53:Is Christmas stressful?
Not more so that other times of the year.
54:Ever eat a pirogi?
Not knowingly.
55:Favorite type of fruit pie?
Apple
56:Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?
Teacher, lawyer, fireman
57:Do you believe in ghosts?
I allow for the possibility, but not in the standard, visible form of a dead person.
58:Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?
Yes.
59:Take a vitamin daily?
I take a "daily vitamin", but not every day.
60:Wear slippers?
Sometimes
61:Wear a bath robe?
Rarely
62:What do you wear to bed?
Absolutely nothing.
63:First concert?
Either the Go-Gos or the Bangles. Can't remember.
64:Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?
Target
65:Nike or Adidas?
Don't know, don't care.
66:Cheetos Or Fritos?
Fritos
67:Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?
Peanuts
68:Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?
No
69:Ever take dance lessons?
Yes
70:Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?
My current spouse does customer service.
71:Can you curl your tongue?
No.
72:Ever won a spelling bee?
Yes - classroom.
73:Have you ever cried because you were so happy?
Often.
74:Own any record albums?
Yes.
75:Own a record player?
Not anymore.
76:Regularly burn incense?
No
77:Ever been in love?
Many times, in many ways, at many different levels. There isn't just one kind of love - that took a while to really understand.
78:Who would you like to see in concert?
Kesha
79:What was the last concert you saw?
Cher?
80:Hot tea or cold tea?
Iced Tea - like 30 degrees cold (Fahrenheit)
81:Tea or coffee?
Tea
82:Sugar or snickerdoodles?
Sugar
83:Can you swim well?
Enough to get buy.
84:Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?
Yes.
85:Are you patient?
Not really
86:DJ or band, at a wedding?
DJ
87:Ever won a contest?
Yes
88:Ever have plastic surgery?
Not yet
89:Which are better black or green olives?
Black
90:Can you knit or crochet?
I used to be able to do both - haven't tried in years.
91:Best room for a fireplace?
Living room
92:Do you want to get married?
Been there, done that.
93:If married, how long have you been married?
We've been together 15 years. Married just about two months.
94:Who was your HS crush?
A girl on drill team and a guy in the rifle line.
95:Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?
No.
96:Do you have kids?
Not in the traditional manner. But there are two people I think of as my kids in many ways.
97:Do you want kids?
Not at this time.
98:What's your favorite color?
Green. Dark, emerald green.
99:Do you miss anyone right now?
Yes.
It's Raffle Time for Arts
Posted 10 years agoHey everyone!
Roawrzz
is doing an art raffle, join in for a chance to win a cool piece of artwork!
http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6818010/
Roawrzz
is doing an art raffle, join in for a chance to win a cool piece of artwork! http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6818010/
Badges
Posted 10 years agoI want to get some themed badges done for the cons I didn't get themed badges for.
Califur '14 (Hollywood), '15 (Anime [Ouran Academy Blazer))
Rainfurrest '14 (Cyberpunk)
FC '15 (Victorian Murder Mystery)
BLFC '15 (Biggest Little Brother)
Califur '14 (Hollywood), '15 (Anime [Ouran Academy Blazer))
Rainfurrest '14 (Cyberpunk)
FC '15 (Victorian Murder Mystery)
BLFC '15 (Biggest Little Brother)
Find me at BLFC!!
Posted 10 years agoHotel:
The main one. (GSR)
Arrival/Departure:
Noonish on Thursday and Monday around dinnertime
Means of transportation
The home of two free checked fursuit crates: Southwest
Sharing a room with
fennecboi, if he can go
Who do you hang out with?
fennecboi 
freckle. sparcohusky 
reaper-san 
dragonswings 
rykahuskypup 
lockford and more!
Gender:
Guy
Relationship Status
If you want to know for "Reasons", go ahead and ask what you really want to ask.
How old are you?
I'm of legal age in all 50 states
How tall are you?
67" or so
Major Plans:
Are you an Artist?
I write and have been a professional Art Director/Graphic Designer, but I don't paint or illustrate
Are you a Fursuiter?
Boom, Baby! Chase will definitely be there and perhaps Tobias (but probably as a partial)
Attending parties?
Definitely! Been invited to a few - I'm hoping they don't conflict.
Do you drink?
Cider, vodka + ginger beer, whatever Wingo makes, etc.
Can I buy you a drink?
I'm I'm there when you buy it, sure.
Can I bring you food?
Are you saying you're doing a food run? Oh, bless you! You gotta pen? Lemmee write this down for ya.
Do you smoke?
Nope. Nothing.
Are you attending any panels?
I'm planning on it. But I planned on it at FC and didn't make many of them (was never drunk, was sick on Saturday and my plans kept changing)
Stage or public performance?
Not this con.
How do I identify my self to you?
If I'm in suit, the standard niceties apply: Approach from the front, make sure I've seen you before coming in for the hug, keep it above the waist (unless I know you), etc.
If I'm not in suit, just holler "Brexton! It's me [insert name here]." Yes, I know the joke you're thinking of and after 100 years or so, it's not fresh anymore - let's laugh about it now so you don't embarrass yourself at the con.
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Vague question is vague. If you mean hug - see above. Those niceties are good for in suit or not. Be aware of how to reciprocate a hug: The less upper body contact made, the shorter the hug. And when someone reduces the hug strength, it's time to let go. It doesn't mean they don't like you - they could be tired, they may not feel comfortable at the same level of affection as you are, etc.
No, I shouldn't have to say this so bluntly and I'm not being mean. Some people just don't know the protocols. If you're reading this and you feel mildly insulted, then you're probably not the intended audience for that paragraph.
How can I find you?
Look for my human badge "Brexton." Or Chase - the black and white husky with a bow tie marking.
Can I talk to you?
Certainly. Just understand I may be under time constraints or in the middle of something with friends, so I might not be able to have a long conversation.
Can I give you lots of money?
Has anyone ever done this? Ever?
Can I give you stuff?
If you have to ask, our personal connection probably isn't there yet.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs: Yes, use the "niceties" I mentioned earlier for the best results.
Cuddles: *Just cuddles* are possible, but I'll be honest - time/place matter a great deal. My definition of cuddles is pretty dang PG: everyone stays as clothed as they were when it started and hands stay outside clothes and don't go into groin areas.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Probably best to wait for someone to say "Hey, you wanna grab something to eat?" or something similar. You can ask if I've got plans and suggest something if I don't, but the way this question was worded makes it seem like the person just wants to tag along.
Can I hang out with you?
If our paths connect and we're headed to same way, sure.
Can I take your picture?
When I'm in suit as Chase or Gareth, sure. In my Human guise... I'd rather not.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
Even if I am, I'm usually not rude about it. I'll just say something like "Now's not a good time." At that point, just try again later.
Personality Type?
At this point, I don't even know. Used to be quiet and withdrawn and I can still get that way. I can also be boisterous and attempt to be funny. Or anything else.
What's your goal for the con this year?
To enjoy what the con has to offer with my friends and make new ones!
Now that I've answered "your" questions, will I see you there? Then what are your answers?
The main one. (GSR)
Arrival/Departure:
Noonish on Thursday and Monday around dinnertime
Means of transportation
The home of two free checked fursuit crates: Southwest
Sharing a room with
fennecboi, if he can goWho do you hang out with?
fennecboi 
freckle. sparcohusky 
reaper-san 
dragonswings 
rykahuskypup 
lockford and more!Gender:
Guy
Relationship Status
If you want to know for "Reasons", go ahead and ask what you really want to ask.
How old are you?
I'm of legal age in all 50 states
How tall are you?
67" or so
Major Plans:
Are you an Artist?
I write and have been a professional Art Director/Graphic Designer, but I don't paint or illustrate
Are you a Fursuiter?
Boom, Baby! Chase will definitely be there and perhaps Tobias (but probably as a partial)
Attending parties?
Definitely! Been invited to a few - I'm hoping they don't conflict.
Do you drink?
Cider, vodka + ginger beer, whatever Wingo makes, etc.
Can I buy you a drink?
I'm I'm there when you buy it, sure.
Can I bring you food?
Are you saying you're doing a food run? Oh, bless you! You gotta pen? Lemmee write this down for ya.
Do you smoke?
Nope. Nothing.
Are you attending any panels?
I'm planning on it. But I planned on it at FC and didn't make many of them (was never drunk, was sick on Saturday and my plans kept changing)
Stage or public performance?
Not this con.
How do I identify my self to you?
If I'm in suit, the standard niceties apply: Approach from the front, make sure I've seen you before coming in for the hug, keep it above the waist (unless I know you), etc.
If I'm not in suit, just holler "Brexton! It's me [insert name here]." Yes, I know the joke you're thinking of and after 100 years or so, it's not fresh anymore - let's laugh about it now so you don't embarrass yourself at the con.
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Vague question is vague. If you mean hug - see above. Those niceties are good for in suit or not. Be aware of how to reciprocate a hug: The less upper body contact made, the shorter the hug. And when someone reduces the hug strength, it's time to let go. It doesn't mean they don't like you - they could be tired, they may not feel comfortable at the same level of affection as you are, etc.
No, I shouldn't have to say this so bluntly and I'm not being mean. Some people just don't know the protocols. If you're reading this and you feel mildly insulted, then you're probably not the intended audience for that paragraph.
How can I find you?
Look for my human badge "Brexton." Or Chase - the black and white husky with a bow tie marking.
Can I talk to you?
Certainly. Just understand I may be under time constraints or in the middle of something with friends, so I might not be able to have a long conversation.
Can I give you lots of money?
Has anyone ever done this? Ever?
Can I give you stuff?
If you have to ask, our personal connection probably isn't there yet.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs: Yes, use the "niceties" I mentioned earlier for the best results.
Cuddles: *Just cuddles* are possible, but I'll be honest - time/place matter a great deal. My definition of cuddles is pretty dang PG: everyone stays as clothed as they were when it started and hands stay outside clothes and don't go into groin areas.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Probably best to wait for someone to say "Hey, you wanna grab something to eat?" or something similar. You can ask if I've got plans and suggest something if I don't, but the way this question was worded makes it seem like the person just wants to tag along.
Can I hang out with you?
If our paths connect and we're headed to same way, sure.
Can I take your picture?
When I'm in suit as Chase or Gareth, sure. In my Human guise... I'd rather not.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
Even if I am, I'm usually not rude about it. I'll just say something like "Now's not a good time." At that point, just try again later.
Personality Type?
At this point, I don't even know. Used to be quiet and withdrawn and I can still get that way. I can also be boisterous and attempt to be funny. Or anything else.
What's your goal for the con this year?
To enjoy what the con has to offer with my friends and make new ones!
Now that I've answered "your" questions, will I see you there? Then what are your answers?
Artwork I Commissioned from Amazing Artists
Posted 10 years ago I had two pieces commissioned for two sets of very good friends.
The first was for the bestest tusky in the world tigurpaw created by 
nanukkluik http://www.furaffinity.net/view/16180608/ (Friends Forever)
The second piece is of fennecboi , freckle. ,& myself. This piece was created by 
tacklebox http://www.furaffinity.net/view/16180622/ ("The Look")
If you don't like clicking links, they're both in my Gallery
The first was for the bestest tusky in the world
tigurpaw created by 
nanukkluik http://www.furaffinity.net/view/16180608/ (Friends Forever)The second piece is of
fennecboi , freckle. ,& myself. This piece was created by 
tacklebox http://www.furaffinity.net/view/16180622/ ("The Look")If you don't like clicking links, they're both in my Gallery
Completely Inconsequential Journal Update
Posted 10 years agoA couple of weeks ago, I shaved my goatee. So I did a hack job on my previous icon to represent that. Not much else to say.
If you're gonna leave FA
Posted 10 years agoplease post a note to that effect and where we can still stay in contact. Some of you have great artwork that I'd still like to see, others post journals I enjoy keeping up with, and others I just think are just cool furries in general.
99 Questions
Posted 10 years agoUnabashedly stolen from Chancethedragon
1: Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?
Open
2: Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?
Depends on the hotel and if it’s better than what I got at home.
3: Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?
Sheets not tucked.
4: Have you ever stolen a street sign before?
Specifically a street sign? No. I think I did take a stop sign that had been knocked down. I know I took a flashing barricade light on the night before my 18th birthday.
5: Do you like to use post-it notes?
Yes! But I can’t ever remember where they are when I need them.
6:Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?
Nope. Gave up on that years ago.
7: Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?
Define “attacked”. Cause if the bear came from Pec’s or Bear Night at Numbers or Rich’s… maaay-be.
8: Do you have freckles?
As long as we’re talking the skin decoration, no. But I have had Freckle’s…
9: Do you always smile for pictures?
If I know it’s happening, I try to. Unless I’m in a “WTF are you up to?” mood.
10: What is your biggest pet peeve?
I don’t know if I’d call it a peeve, more a boiling, white-hot rage at bullies and those who abuse trust. And people that think a Friend is not much more than an accessory you change out depending on your mood/outfit. (No, these haven’t happened to me in years. But I’ve seen it happen to others… )
11: Do you ever count your steps when you walk?
This is a really odd question. And, yes. Sometimes.
12: Have you ever peed in the woods?
But of course.
13:What about pooped in the woods?
I don’t think so, but I can’t remember every cub scout trip I’ve ever taken.
14: Do you ever dance even if there’s no music playing?
I call it dancing, yes. What other’s would call it… I don’t know.
15: Do you chew your pens and pencils?
Naw.
16: How many people have you slept with this week?
Three – if you’re talking about sleeping. Two if something else.
17: What size is your bed?
Queen. It’d be a king if I had the room for one.
18: What is your Song of the week?
Can’t think of one at the moment. But I know one played last night and it was pretty apropos. Wish I could remember it.
19: Is it okay for guys to wear pink?
Why not? It doesn’t look good on me though.
20: Do you still watch cartoons?
/epic eye roll. “Duh”
21: What’s your least favorite movie?
Maleficient. There was so much that could have been good about that…
22: Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?
Who says I don’t? And why would I tell you? Did someone tell you something?
23: If you're a girl, bra size? If you're a guy, pants size?
Pants size: 36 almost a 34
24: What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
Hot Mustard
25: What is your favorite food?
Thai! No, tacos! No, Greek/Mediterranean! I like a lot of food.
26: What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
Ocean’s Eleven (with George Clooney)
27: Last person you kissed/kissed you?
Johan.
28: Were you ever a boy/girl scout?
Yup.
29: Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?
A few years ago, yeah. Now… not without some work.
30: When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?
Full on letter, with stamp, envelope, and all? Can’t remember. Wrote something to someone on paper that I gave to them? Last week.
31: Can you change the oil on a car?
Change? No. Check oil and add more if needed, yes.
32: Ever gotten a speeding ticket?
Yeah. But it’s been a long while.
33: Ever ran out of gas?
Not yet.
34:Favorite kind of sandwich?
REUBEN!!!
35: Best thing to eat for breakfast?
I have a terribly naughty response in mind, but I’ll go with “Brunch.”
36: What is your usual bedtime?
During the week, around 10PM. The weekend, anywhere from 2-4AM.
37: Are you lazy?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
38: When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
Batman, a headless werewolf, cheerleader, shepherd… a bunch of stuff.
39: What is your Chinese astrological sign?
Snake. The Cock is my friend (seriously, that’s what it says).
40: Are you horny?
Not at the moment. But I’m pretty often horny nowadays.
41: Do you have any magazine subscriptions?
None.
42: Which are better Legos or Lincoln Logs?
Legos, totally.
43: Are you stubborn?
Depends on the subject. I can be stubborn at first reaction, but I’m also able to be reasoned with.
44: Who is better...Leno or Letterman?
Can’t stand either one.
45: Ever watch soap operas?
I did for a few months in high school.
46: Are you afraid of heights?
Technically, no. I’m afraid of falling.
47: Do you sing in the car?
As long as no one else is there, yes.
48:Do you sing in the shower?
Nah.
49: Do you dance in the car?
I can move rhythmically, but I wouldn’t call it dancing.
50: Ever used a gun?
Yuppers!
51: Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?
A portait, can’t remember.
52: Do you think musicals are cheesy?
Not as a rule, but some of them are.
53: Is Christmas stressful?
Not for me.
54: Ever eat a pirogi?
Once or twice.
55: Favorite type of fruit pie?
Apple Crumb.
56: Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?
Teacher, Astronaut, Dancer
57: Do you believe in ghosts?
I want to… But I don’t think I do.
58: Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?
All the time.
59: Take a vitamin daily?
Currently, yes.
60: Wear slippers?
Only when I need to run out and walk the dog at night.
61: Wear a bath robe?
Not regularly, but I do have one.
62: What do you wear to bed?
A smile. (Yeah, I don’t wear anything in bed)
63: First concert?
I refuse to answer based on the statute of limitations
64: Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?
Though I hate the company, Wal-Mart, ‘casue it’s closest.
65: Nike or Adidas?
Meh. Whatever.
66: Cheetos Or Fritos?
Fritos.
67: Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?
Peanuts.
68:Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?
Nope
69: Ever take dance lessons?
For a few years.
70: Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?
Artist.
71:Can you curl your tongue?
No. :(
72: Ever won a spelling bee?
Classroom level, yes.
73: Have you ever cried because you were so happy?
Definitnely.
74: Own any record albums?
Own them, yes. Able to find them… probably not.
75: Own a record player?
Not currently.
76: Regularly burn incense?
Not anymore. It jacks up my throat and sinuses.
77: Ever been in love?
What, am I four? Of course.
78: Who would you like to see in concert?
No real desire for concerts. They’ve always been a disappointment.
79: What was the last concert you saw?
Cher. One of the last four or five “Farewell” concerts.
80: Hot tea or cold tea?
Sweet tea – which has no options. Always iced, always made with real sugar.
81: Tea or coffee?
Tea
82: Sugar or snickerdoodles?
Out of those two, Sugar
83: Can you swim well?
Not well, but enough.
84: Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?
Yes.
85: Are you patient?
Sometimes. But more often, not.
86: DJ or band, at a wedding?
DJ
87: Ever won a contest?
Yes. A few.
88: Ever have plastic surgery?
No.
89: Which are better black or green olives?
Black.
90:Can you knit or crochet?
I used to be able to do basic stitches in both.
91: Best room for a fireplace?
Living room.
92: Do you want to get married?
Yes.
93: If married, how long have you been married?
Not yet.
94: Who was your HS crush?
The one I told people about? Shelley. The one I didn’t? Ronnie.
95: Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?
Uh, no. I hope no one does if they’re over two.
96: Do you have kids?
No.
97: Do you want kids?
Not really. Though there are times when I think about it.
98: Whats your favorite color?
Green.
99: Do you miss anyone right now?
Yes.
1: Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?
Open
2: Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?
Depends on the hotel and if it’s better than what I got at home.
3: Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?
Sheets not tucked.
4: Have you ever stolen a street sign before?
Specifically a street sign? No. I think I did take a stop sign that had been knocked down. I know I took a flashing barricade light on the night before my 18th birthday.
5: Do you like to use post-it notes?
Yes! But I can’t ever remember where they are when I need them.
6:Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?
Nope. Gave up on that years ago.
7: Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?
Define “attacked”. Cause if the bear came from Pec’s or Bear Night at Numbers or Rich’s… maaay-be.
8: Do you have freckles?
As long as we’re talking the skin decoration, no. But I have had Freckle’s…
9: Do you always smile for pictures?
If I know it’s happening, I try to. Unless I’m in a “WTF are you up to?” mood.
10: What is your biggest pet peeve?
I don’t know if I’d call it a peeve, more a boiling, white-hot rage at bullies and those who abuse trust. And people that think a Friend is not much more than an accessory you change out depending on your mood/outfit. (No, these haven’t happened to me in years. But I’ve seen it happen to others… )
11: Do you ever count your steps when you walk?
This is a really odd question. And, yes. Sometimes.
12: Have you ever peed in the woods?
But of course.
13:What about pooped in the woods?
I don’t think so, but I can’t remember every cub scout trip I’ve ever taken.
14: Do you ever dance even if there’s no music playing?
I call it dancing, yes. What other’s would call it… I don’t know.
15: Do you chew your pens and pencils?
Naw.
16: How many people have you slept with this week?
Three – if you’re talking about sleeping. Two if something else.
17: What size is your bed?
Queen. It’d be a king if I had the room for one.
18: What is your Song of the week?
Can’t think of one at the moment. But I know one played last night and it was pretty apropos. Wish I could remember it.
19: Is it okay for guys to wear pink?
Why not? It doesn’t look good on me though.
20: Do you still watch cartoons?
/epic eye roll. “Duh”
21: What’s your least favorite movie?
Maleficient. There was so much that could have been good about that…
22: Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?
Who says I don’t? And why would I tell you? Did someone tell you something?
23: If you're a girl, bra size? If you're a guy, pants size?
Pants size: 36 almost a 34
24: What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
Hot Mustard
25: What is your favorite food?
Thai! No, tacos! No, Greek/Mediterranean! I like a lot of food.
26: What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
Ocean’s Eleven (with George Clooney)
27: Last person you kissed/kissed you?
Johan.
28: Were you ever a boy/girl scout?
Yup.
29: Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?
A few years ago, yeah. Now… not without some work.
30: When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?
Full on letter, with stamp, envelope, and all? Can’t remember. Wrote something to someone on paper that I gave to them? Last week.
31: Can you change the oil on a car?
Change? No. Check oil and add more if needed, yes.
32: Ever gotten a speeding ticket?
Yeah. But it’s been a long while.
33: Ever ran out of gas?
Not yet.
34:Favorite kind of sandwich?
REUBEN!!!
35: Best thing to eat for breakfast?
I have a terribly naughty response in mind, but I’ll go with “Brunch.”
36: What is your usual bedtime?
During the week, around 10PM. The weekend, anywhere from 2-4AM.
37: Are you lazy?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
38: When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
Batman, a headless werewolf, cheerleader, shepherd… a bunch of stuff.
39: What is your Chinese astrological sign?
Snake. The Cock is my friend (seriously, that’s what it says).
40: Are you horny?
Not at the moment. But I’m pretty often horny nowadays.
41: Do you have any magazine subscriptions?
None.
42: Which are better Legos or Lincoln Logs?
Legos, totally.
43: Are you stubborn?
Depends on the subject. I can be stubborn at first reaction, but I’m also able to be reasoned with.
44: Who is better...Leno or Letterman?
Can’t stand either one.
45: Ever watch soap operas?
I did for a few months in high school.
46: Are you afraid of heights?
Technically, no. I’m afraid of falling.
47: Do you sing in the car?
As long as no one else is there, yes.
48:Do you sing in the shower?
Nah.
49: Do you dance in the car?
I can move rhythmically, but I wouldn’t call it dancing.
50: Ever used a gun?
Yuppers!
51: Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?
A portait, can’t remember.
52: Do you think musicals are cheesy?
Not as a rule, but some of them are.
53: Is Christmas stressful?
Not for me.
54: Ever eat a pirogi?
Once or twice.
55: Favorite type of fruit pie?
Apple Crumb.
56: Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?
Teacher, Astronaut, Dancer
57: Do you believe in ghosts?
I want to… But I don’t think I do.
58: Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?
All the time.
59: Take a vitamin daily?
Currently, yes.
60: Wear slippers?
Only when I need to run out and walk the dog at night.
61: Wear a bath robe?
Not regularly, but I do have one.
62: What do you wear to bed?
A smile. (Yeah, I don’t wear anything in bed)
63: First concert?
I refuse to answer based on the statute of limitations
64: Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?
Though I hate the company, Wal-Mart, ‘casue it’s closest.
65: Nike or Adidas?
Meh. Whatever.
66: Cheetos Or Fritos?
Fritos.
67: Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?
Peanuts.
68:Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?
Nope
69: Ever take dance lessons?
For a few years.
70: Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?
Artist.
71:Can you curl your tongue?
No. :(
72: Ever won a spelling bee?
Classroom level, yes.
73: Have you ever cried because you were so happy?
Definitnely.
74: Own any record albums?
Own them, yes. Able to find them… probably not.
75: Own a record player?
Not currently.
76: Regularly burn incense?
Not anymore. It jacks up my throat and sinuses.
77: Ever been in love?
What, am I four? Of course.
78: Who would you like to see in concert?
No real desire for concerts. They’ve always been a disappointment.
79: What was the last concert you saw?
Cher. One of the last four or five “Farewell” concerts.
80: Hot tea or cold tea?
Sweet tea – which has no options. Always iced, always made with real sugar.
81: Tea or coffee?
Tea
82: Sugar or snickerdoodles?
Out of those two, Sugar
83: Can you swim well?
Not well, but enough.
84: Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?
Yes.
85: Are you patient?
Sometimes. But more often, not.
86: DJ or band, at a wedding?
DJ
87: Ever won a contest?
Yes. A few.
88: Ever have plastic surgery?
No.
89: Which are better black or green olives?
Black.
90:Can you knit or crochet?
I used to be able to do basic stitches in both.
91: Best room for a fireplace?
Living room.
92: Do you want to get married?
Yes.
93: If married, how long have you been married?
Not yet.
94: Who was your HS crush?
The one I told people about? Shelley. The one I didn’t? Ronnie.
95: Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?
Uh, no. I hope no one does if they’re over two.
96: Do you have kids?
No.
97: Do you want kids?
Not really. Though there are times when I think about it.
98: Whats your favorite color?
Green.
99: Do you miss anyone right now?
Yes.
Touching Base
Posted 10 years agoLet's see...since the last update I've:
Gone to FC
Gone to a gun range for the first time
Joined a gun range and started researching handguns
Lost some weight
Shaved my facial hair
Made several new friends
Made great strides in things I was working on
Had some real fun for the first time in a long time
I think that covers most of the basics...
Gone to FC
Gone to a gun range for the first time
Joined a gun range and started researching handguns
Lost some weight
Shaved my facial hair
Made several new friends
Made great strides in things I was working on
Had some real fun for the first time in a long time
I think that covers most of the basics...
FC 2015 Meme
Posted 11 years agoFC’s right around the corner and this will be my first one!
And because I haven’t posted in a while, here’s a meme I copied from
foxfan1992
--
Convention: Further Confusion 2015: London Fog: A Victorian Murder Mystery
Hotel
The Hilton San Jose
Arrival/Departure
Thursday noonish to Monday noonish.
Means of transportation:
Southwest Air – (could change to driving. Not likely)
Sharing a room with
LostWolf123, Reaper-san, and Lockford
Who do you hang out with?
Based on RainFurrest, I walk around with Lockford and other San Diego furs that I run into.
Gender
Male
Preference
Aisle, not window
Relationship Status
Not available for romantic options.
How old are you?
Of legal age. Everywhere.
Are you an Artist?
I am an Art Director and graphic designer, but not an illustrator.
Do you have an artist table?
No.
Do you take commissions?
No. What would you commission? A logo or newsletter layout?
Are you a Fursuiter?
Oh yeah! Still new and working on my interactivity.
Attending parties?
At least two. More if someone invites me.
Do you drink?
Mostly Coke Zero and cider (not together!). Occasionally tequila and some mixed drinks.
Can I buy you a drink?
Yes. Why?
Do you smoke?
No.
Are you attending any panels?
I usually try to, but so far they all seem to be repeats of stuff from other cons that I’ve seen online.
Stage or public performance?
Nope.
How do I identify myself to you?
Say “Hi Brexton!”
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great when I know they’re coming. Surprise glomping isn’t cool (unless I know you really well)
How can I find you?
Look for Chase, the black and white husky. Out of suit, look for my Brexton badge (http://www.furaffinity.net/view/15288462/) or send me a tweet (@Brexton)
Can I talk to you?
That’s what I’m here for!
Can I give you lots of money?
Yes. Why?
Can I give you stuff?
These “Can I give you…” questions are weird. Do people do this?
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs are for everyone when I know they’re coming. Snuggles… negotiable.
Can I come to dinner with you?
It depends on the time/place/event.
Can I hang out with you?
If we click, sure!.
Can I take your picture?
Chase loves having his picture taken. Brexton, not so much.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
I’ll tell you. I never get upset with anyone when they don’t know what’s up. That’s just douchey.
Personality Type?
I have no idea – I haven’t written a personals ad in years. I’d say friendly, chipper, a little naïve from time to time. Some would say shy, but that’s only til I know you a little.
What's your goal for the con this year?
Make furry friends! Fursuit a lot. Get to the Saturday dance. Socialize.
And because I haven’t posted in a while, here’s a meme I copied from
foxfan1992--
Convention: Further Confusion 2015: London Fog: A Victorian Murder Mystery
Hotel
The Hilton San Jose
Arrival/Departure
Thursday noonish to Monday noonish.
Means of transportation:
Southwest Air – (could change to driving. Not likely)
Sharing a room with
LostWolf123, Reaper-san, and Lockford
Who do you hang out with?
Based on RainFurrest, I walk around with Lockford and other San Diego furs that I run into.
Gender
Male
Preference
Aisle, not window
Relationship Status
Not available for romantic options.
How old are you?
Of legal age. Everywhere.
Are you an Artist?
I am an Art Director and graphic designer, but not an illustrator.
Do you have an artist table?
No.
Do you take commissions?
No. What would you commission? A logo or newsletter layout?
Are you a Fursuiter?
Oh yeah! Still new and working on my interactivity.
Attending parties?
At least two. More if someone invites me.
Do you drink?
Mostly Coke Zero and cider (not together!). Occasionally tequila and some mixed drinks.
Can I buy you a drink?
Yes. Why?
Do you smoke?
No.
Are you attending any panels?
I usually try to, but so far they all seem to be repeats of stuff from other cons that I’ve seen online.
Stage or public performance?
Nope.
How do I identify myself to you?
Say “Hi Brexton!”
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great when I know they’re coming. Surprise glomping isn’t cool (unless I know you really well)
How can I find you?
Look for Chase, the black and white husky. Out of suit, look for my Brexton badge (http://www.furaffinity.net/view/15288462/) or send me a tweet (@Brexton)
Can I talk to you?
That’s what I’m here for!
Can I give you lots of money?
Yes. Why?
Can I give you stuff?
These “Can I give you…” questions are weird. Do people do this?
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs are for everyone when I know they’re coming. Snuggles… negotiable.
Can I come to dinner with you?
It depends on the time/place/event.
Can I hang out with you?
If we click, sure!.
Can I take your picture?
Chase loves having his picture taken. Brexton, not so much.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
I’ll tell you. I never get upset with anyone when they don’t know what’s up. That’s just douchey.
Personality Type?
I have no idea – I haven’t written a personals ad in years. I’d say friendly, chipper, a little naïve from time to time. Some would say shy, but that’s only til I know you a little.
What's your goal for the con this year?
Make furry friends! Fursuit a lot. Get to the Saturday dance. Socialize.
Update and Headed to Disney World
Posted 11 years agoMy vacation is getting ready to start. I'll be at Walt Disney World for a week (3rd-9th).
I registered for RainFurrest when the hotel block was selling out. I got the Patron membership again - it was a great con last year and I like to support the good ones. As far as the hotel, I only managed to grab a King, but they're trying to get the hotel to add more rooms. If all goes well, I should end up with a Double. They raised the hotel prices for next year, so I'll be needing to split this one.
So that leaves my Con To-Do List at:
Get hotel room for Califur
Decide if I'm flying or carpooling to FC and BLFC.
If flying to BLFC, get plane tickets.
Other things are going okay. There's been little to no movement on my previous journal topics - the big brother thing, the social anxiety thing, the no libido thing, the "I share too much info" thing, and so on.
I have made a couple of friends lately - the kind I can actually hang out with. So that's good. But circumstances seem to prevent us all from being able to hang. And of course, now that I'm moving in that direction, that's all I want to do. It's odd, but even with the anxiety stuff, I've been craving group interaction. Not anonymous, PS numbers of people. But more like the 8-10 people hanging out at an apartment or somewhere kind of thing. I just have to force myself to do more than sit in the corner.
Anyway - Disney World!
I registered for RainFurrest when the hotel block was selling out. I got the Patron membership again - it was a great con last year and I like to support the good ones. As far as the hotel, I only managed to grab a King, but they're trying to get the hotel to add more rooms. If all goes well, I should end up with a Double. They raised the hotel prices for next year, so I'll be needing to split this one.
So that leaves my Con To-Do List at:
Get hotel room for Califur
Decide if I'm flying or carpooling to FC and BLFC.
If flying to BLFC, get plane tickets.
Other things are going okay. There's been little to no movement on my previous journal topics - the big brother thing, the social anxiety thing, the no libido thing, the "I share too much info" thing, and so on.
I have made a couple of friends lately - the kind I can actually hang out with. So that's good. But circumstances seem to prevent us all from being able to hang. And of course, now that I'm moving in that direction, that's all I want to do. It's odd, but even with the anxiety stuff, I've been craving group interaction. Not anonymous, PS numbers of people. But more like the 8-10 people hanging out at an apartment or somewhere kind of thing. I just have to force myself to do more than sit in the corner.
Anyway - Disney World!
Current Con Plans
Posted 11 years agoNext up: Further Confusion '15. Everyone says this is awesome - I can't wait. I'm making it a priority to go to the dances in suit. Hopefully Gareth will be ready and Tobias will have his new feet. The question is, who should I take: Chase, Gareth, or Tobias? I'm flying Southwest, so it's possible I could take two... or I could cancel my flight and drive up with friends. Then I might be able to get all three! (My goal in general is to get a shot of me with all three characters, so I'd have to get others to wear them) [edit: Holy crap! I must've registered during a fever dream or something. I registered as a Super Sponsor.]
Then is BLFC. As awesome as FC is rumored to be, the buzz about BLFC is off the chart. I haven't heard a single negative word about it. I don't have my flight for this one yet. If I cancelled my FC flight, I could use that credit to get a flight to BLFC. Not sure yet.
[Here's a weird thing, I just checked my hotel and I booked it from the 14th to the 19th. Why would I check out on a Tuesday? Is there something scheduled to happen on the Monday? Anybody?]
After that, there's Califur '15. I'm registered and don't need to fly. I've held off on the hotel 'cause it's pretty expensive. I know I want to do the Disneyland trip on Day 0 (Thurs). Last year, a ton of cool stuff happened late Sunday and I missed it all, so I was thinking of staying til Monday. But that's basically $600. Eep!
Now for the biggie: AC '15 I have no idea if I'm going to do this. I want to, but July will be far too packed. A good friend's birthday is July 17 and he'll be coming out to CA for a big Disneyland birthday party. Well hell, I just checked and AC is the same weekend as San Diego Comic Con. I've already got my SDCC badge, so I guess that answers it. Never mind.
Any others I should be looking into? I'll plan for RainFurrest again, but that's a ways off for now.
Then is BLFC. As awesome as FC is rumored to be, the buzz about BLFC is off the chart. I haven't heard a single negative word about it. I don't have my flight for this one yet. If I cancelled my FC flight, I could use that credit to get a flight to BLFC. Not sure yet.
[Here's a weird thing, I just checked my hotel and I booked it from the 14th to the 19th. Why would I check out on a Tuesday? Is there something scheduled to happen on the Monday? Anybody?]
After that, there's Califur '15. I'm registered and don't need to fly. I've held off on the hotel 'cause it's pretty expensive. I know I want to do the Disneyland trip on Day 0 (Thurs). Last year, a ton of cool stuff happened late Sunday and I missed it all, so I was thinking of staying til Monday. But that's basically $600. Eep!
Now for the biggie: AC '15 I have no idea if I'm going to do this. I want to, but July will be far too packed. A good friend's birthday is July 17 and he'll be coming out to CA for a big Disneyland birthday party. Well hell, I just checked and AC is the same weekend as San Diego Comic Con. I've already got my SDCC badge, so I guess that answers it. Never mind.
Any others I should be looking into? I'll plan for RainFurrest again, but that's a ways off for now.
I'd like to be the little brother some time
Posted 11 years agoWarning: My posts can get kinda TMI. Mostly, the "this is what's really going on in my head right now" kind.
First reason was to develop skills to overcome my social anxiety issues and make some friends. Just some causal, they-know-my-name friends. Ever since moving to San Diego, I retreated into myself and didn't seek out any social outlet. I figured it was time to get out and meet some people.
Next, after getting acclimated a bit (baby steps, Brexton), I talked to a few people about some things and got advice on how to deal with it. It's a little more TMI than I'm willing to put into a journal post, but it is an an element I'm looking to explore in the fandom. No, it's not a fetish thing.
And thirdly, cuddle buddies are definitely high on the list :)
But the main thing I wanted to write about is something that hit me last night while driving back from a post-furmeet get together. One of the things I've been looking for is a big brother. Not a sexual thing and it doesn't really have anything to do with age.
I'm the oldest of three kids and lived that stereotype fully. To some extent I still do. This describes me pretty well (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.p.....gBrotherMentor), although with less physical rebuking.
That's what I've been missing most of my life. A sense that there was someone, a friend, looking out for me.
I've always been a little socially awkward and after some talks with professionals, I finally know why. And I'm dealing with it through anti-anxiety meds, skill development, and therapy. But I am pretty naive in some ways - that's what usually provokes the anxiety: knowing that I'll likely make a mistake and be judged as if it were intentional.
Having a BB or mentor who I can really talk with and who can keep me on target is one of the things I'd really like to find. Someone I look up to/admire for the qualities I'm trying to develop: friendliness, social acceptance, fun, and responsibility. I know it sounds dated, but I guess it boils down to someone I think is "Cool."
No - this isn't the same as a boyfriend. Or an alpha, daddy, dom, or anything like that. "Big brother" really captures what I feel I'm looking for in this matter.
We now return you to your non-TMI broadcast day.
[This isn't a posting to find a big brother - if that happens, it'll happen naturally. Just something I thought about deeply last night.]
First reason was to develop skills to overcome my social anxiety issues and make some friends. Just some causal, they-know-my-name friends. Ever since moving to San Diego, I retreated into myself and didn't seek out any social outlet. I figured it was time to get out and meet some people.
Next, after getting acclimated a bit (baby steps, Brexton), I talked to a few people about some things and got advice on how to deal with it. It's a little more TMI than I'm willing to put into a journal post, but it is an an element I'm looking to explore in the fandom. No, it's not a fetish thing.
And thirdly, cuddle buddies are definitely high on the list :)
But the main thing I wanted to write about is something that hit me last night while driving back from a post-furmeet get together. One of the things I've been looking for is a big brother. Not a sexual thing and it doesn't really have anything to do with age.
I'm the oldest of three kids and lived that stereotype fully. To some extent I still do. This describes me pretty well (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.p.....gBrotherMentor), although with less physical rebuking.
That's what I've been missing most of my life. A sense that there was someone, a friend, looking out for me.
I've always been a little socially awkward and after some talks with professionals, I finally know why. And I'm dealing with it through anti-anxiety meds, skill development, and therapy. But I am pretty naive in some ways - that's what usually provokes the anxiety: knowing that I'll likely make a mistake and be judged as if it were intentional.
Having a BB or mentor who I can really talk with and who can keep me on target is one of the things I'd really like to find. Someone I look up to/admire for the qualities I'm trying to develop: friendliness, social acceptance, fun, and responsibility. I know it sounds dated, but I guess it boils down to someone I think is "Cool."
No - this isn't the same as a boyfriend. Or an alpha, daddy, dom, or anything like that. "Big brother" really captures what I feel I'm looking for in this matter.
We now return you to your non-TMI broadcast day.
[This isn't a posting to find a big brother - if that happens, it'll happen naturally. Just something I thought about deeply last night.]
Some Random Meme
Posted 11 years agoStolen from 
frostyorca
1. Is there anyone on your friends list you would ever consider having sex with?
Really? This is where you go for the first question? Fine. Yes. There are a few people on my Is Watching list that I would love to play with. I’m not counting the ones that already made that list.
2. Sex in the morning, afternoon or night?
I don’t discriminate, but I’d say that the majority falls under night.
3. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
Whichever side is closest to the bathroom.
4. Pork, beef, or chicken?
Since the pork category includes bacon, that wins by default.
5. Have you ever had to pull over on the side of the road to puke?
Not that I remember. Maybe when I was a kid.
6. Have you ever taken your clothes off for money?
I have never been paid for the act of taking my clothes off.
7. Shower or bath?
Shower.
8. Do you pee in the shower?
Rarely.
9. Mexican or Chinese?
Both, but I’ll go with Americanized Chinese.
10. Do you want someone aggressive or passive in bed?
Aggressive. But that’s because I like two aggressives.
11. Do you love someone on your friend list?
Not in the way the question is asking.
12. Do you know all the people on your friends list?
No, most are artists I wanted to watch. But as I keep fursuiting, more and more are people I know.
13. Love or money?
To be honest, I can’t go with either extreme. I’ve had love and no money, and the fear of not having a roof over my head is something I’d rather never face again. But money and no love of any kind… not sure that would be much better.
14. Credit cards or cash?
I don’t like carrying around cash and I like the speed of a credit card. I do not like the interest payments though.
15. Has there ever been anyone in your family you wish wasn't?
Yup.
16. Would you rather go camping or to a 5 star hotel?
5 star hotel.
17. What is the weirdest place you have had sex?
At a constructions site at night, on a pallet of 2X4s (we brought a couple of towels)
18. Would you shave your entire body (including your head) for money?
Depending on how much we’re talking, probably.
19. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Yes. I went to hang out with friends, not interested in the ta-tas and such.
20. Ever been to a bar?
Several.
21. Ever been kicked out of a bar or a club?
Nope.
22. Ever been so drunk you had to be carried out of somewhere?
No, I don’t drink that much. Haven’t ever blacked out, either.
23. Kissed someone of the same sex?
Yes.
24. Favorite drink?
Alcoholic: Patron Silver
Non Alcoholic: Coke Zero
25. Had sex in a movie theater?
No
26. Had sex in a bathroom?
…Yes, but it wasn't a public bathroom.
27. Have you ever had sex at work?
Not at my current job and never during working hours.
28. Have you ever been in an "adult" store?
Yes.
29. Bought something from an adult store?
Yes.
30. Have you been caught having sex?
Caught seems to be the tricky part. Not in a “Gotcha!” sort of way, but I did notice a roommate watching from the bedroom door for several minutes.
31. Does anyone have naughty pics of u?
I believe there is just one in existence.
32. Who do you think has the guts to repost this?
Anyone who wants to!
frostyorca1. Is there anyone on your friends list you would ever consider having sex with?
Really? This is where you go for the first question? Fine. Yes. There are a few people on my Is Watching list that I would love to play with. I’m not counting the ones that already made that list.
2. Sex in the morning, afternoon or night?
I don’t discriminate, but I’d say that the majority falls under night.
3. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
Whichever side is closest to the bathroom.
4. Pork, beef, or chicken?
Since the pork category includes bacon, that wins by default.
5. Have you ever had to pull over on the side of the road to puke?
Not that I remember. Maybe when I was a kid.
6. Have you ever taken your clothes off for money?
I have never been paid for the act of taking my clothes off.
7. Shower or bath?
Shower.
8. Do you pee in the shower?
Rarely.
9. Mexican or Chinese?
Both, but I’ll go with Americanized Chinese.
10. Do you want someone aggressive or passive in bed?
Aggressive. But that’s because I like two aggressives.
11. Do you love someone on your friend list?
Not in the way the question is asking.
12. Do you know all the people on your friends list?
No, most are artists I wanted to watch. But as I keep fursuiting, more and more are people I know.
13. Love or money?
To be honest, I can’t go with either extreme. I’ve had love and no money, and the fear of not having a roof over my head is something I’d rather never face again. But money and no love of any kind… not sure that would be much better.
14. Credit cards or cash?
I don’t like carrying around cash and I like the speed of a credit card. I do not like the interest payments though.
15. Has there ever been anyone in your family you wish wasn't?
Yup.
16. Would you rather go camping or to a 5 star hotel?
5 star hotel.
17. What is the weirdest place you have had sex?
At a constructions site at night, on a pallet of 2X4s (we brought a couple of towels)
18. Would you shave your entire body (including your head) for money?
Depending on how much we’re talking, probably.
19. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Yes. I went to hang out with friends, not interested in the ta-tas and such.
20. Ever been to a bar?
Several.
21. Ever been kicked out of a bar or a club?
Nope.
22. Ever been so drunk you had to be carried out of somewhere?
No, I don’t drink that much. Haven’t ever blacked out, either.
23. Kissed someone of the same sex?
Yes.
24. Favorite drink?
Alcoholic: Patron Silver
Non Alcoholic: Coke Zero
25. Had sex in a movie theater?
No
26. Had sex in a bathroom?
…Yes, but it wasn't a public bathroom.
27. Have you ever had sex at work?
Not at my current job and never during working hours.
28. Have you ever been in an "adult" store?
Yes.
29. Bought something from an adult store?
Yes.
30. Have you been caught having sex?
Caught seems to be the tricky part. Not in a “Gotcha!” sort of way, but I did notice a roommate watching from the bedroom door for several minutes.
31. Does anyone have naughty pics of u?
I believe there is just one in existence.
32. Who do you think has the guts to repost this?
Anyone who wants to!
Yup - Score One For Social Ineptitude
Posted 11 years agoI'll just leave it at that.
RainFurrest '14 from a first timer (Warning: Long]
Posted 11 years ago[Edited to add: I almost deleted this journal. It exposes some stuff about myself that might make some people uncomfortable, but I decided to leave it up anyway. After all, the whole point of the entry is to point out that I'm aware of and actively changing that stuff.]
[Warning - I write these entries in a detailed format that's a mix of review and novel. Take the time, I hope it's entertaining for you.]
TL;DR - AWESOME!!!!
Now, with some context... or "What you need to know in order to get why this con was super mega awesome for me." I'll keep the backstory as short as I can.
Several years ago, I kinda got messed up by some anti-depressants I had been prescribed. It left me with some issues, including a pretty strong case of social anxiety. It's one of the main reasons I got back into the furry fandom - to break through some of this crap. To be honest, after five months, I hadn't been terribly successful.
I made the flight for RF back in June, I think, but cancelled it the next day. "Flight and hotel cost too much." "I don't know anyone who'll be there." "I don't want to take too much time off work." And so on... But two weeks later, I bucked up and committed to the con - spending the money will force me to go and deal with this shit. As punishment for my hesitation, Fate decided to have all Hilton rooms sell out so I had to book the Clarion.
Fast forward to late August - I've made a few tenuous connections in the fandom: Kithrak, Lockford, and a few others who at least recognize my face. Well, naturally everyone starts talking about their RF plans. Lockford had planned to go, but had waited to commit and now didn't have a room. In an unusual show of directness, I asked Lockford if he wanted to split my room. Boom - some of the cost issues taken care of.
Two of my characters' (Tobias and Chase) fursuits came in. At this point, I've suited for a total of 40 minutes - 20 as Chase and 20 as Tobias. Trying to fly with two suits was a little too much for me to deal with logistically as my first long-distance con, so I had to make a choice. I went with Chase, since the creator
kodi_pup was going to be there.
There - I think that's just about all the background. Now begins the trip report.
I get to the airport, and a group of SD furs are travelling on the same flight: "iconraishiin:, reaper-san, 
raket, and 
that-blue-dog-on-the-left They're playing Cards Against Humanity and tell me to pull up some floor and join in. I end up being pretty silent through the whole thing - so strike one on my goal of interaction. Even though we were on Southwest, I boarded early and didn't get to sit near them. No chance to correct the airport mistake of silence. Not an auspicious start.
Lockford was on a much earlier plane and was waiting in Seattle for 6-7 hours for me to get there and check in. He jumped into suit and hit up the Hilton lobby. I hung out and watched how he and other fursuiters interacted with people, what they did as "idle animations", and so on.
After several hours, back in the hotel room. I had a bunch of questions - maybe a few too many all at one time. But he was great answering them - obviously this is a guy who loves what he does. I don't think he knows it, but he gets a little more animated when he talks about suiting. And he had lots of great advice - stuff that should really be wrapped up into a Fursuiting 102 panel. Things that make so much sense, but I'd never heard anyone say on a blog or YouTubed panel. Like: "It's going to take time to break in your suit - to learn how it works with your body." Duh - sounds obvious when someone says it out loud, right?
Anyway, this is a trend that continued throughout the con: Lockford giving up part of his time to help me out in lots of little ways. Suiting advice, headless lounge info, introductions to new people, and a ton of history about the fandom (cons, events, luminaries, etc). Never did he set himself up as an "expert" or anything - he was just helping me out. When we were suiting, some people who knew/recognized him would get his picture. He'd pull me into the shot to be included. Little shit like that goes a long way with me. Without him, I truly believe this con would have been yet another failed attempt to break out of my shell.
[I just re-read that paragraph and while it's all true, it might sound a little fanboyish. Look, he's just a great guy who did me a solid. Moving on.]
Thursday, at registration, I decided to upgrade to Patron. Truthfully, I really don't do well with lines, so I'm glad I upgraded. I was a sponsor at Califur and I know these cons run on a shoestring budget - so I just like to help them out. Plus, it's a standard technique: create a penalty if you don't hit your goal. In this case, I'd already spent the cash so I better do everything I can to make the con worth it. [Spoiler - I succeeded]
At some point, I suited up as Chase and made my first attempt. Another one of those Fursuiting 102 things is: "It's harder than it looks." Trying to remember all the things to do, can be tricky. Eventually, it'll all be second nature, but then - it was hard. Remembering to breath in a way to not overload the head. Keep scanning the area - always be aware of your surroundings (I did pretty well on this one). Be "on"; don't just schlep around the hotel (unless that's the character).
The big one for me was "DO SOMETHING!" I had a particular walk designed for Chase, but that's really all I did. Strut. Wave. Repeat. Always wave with the right hand because that's got the gold pawpads. Overall, that plan isn't much of a character and the outcome was what I should have expected: a few remarks about how cute the suit was but not much else.
I've made a corollary to this tip: "Interact with other fursuiters!" Draw attention to yourself - that's what you're there for!! Give 'em the ol' razzle-dazzle, but remember to share the stage! How you interact with others will leave a stronger impression about you than trying to be a solo act.
Ultimately, I made it three hours before the combination of heat, sweat, and exhaustion took its toll and I de-suited. Hey, the only other times I did this was for 20 minutes. I called it a pretty successful first "real" excursion.
"If furries aren't at the dance, where are they? #RF2014" <-- That's a tweet I made along with a pic of a mostly empty dance floor. Because of the hashtag, it got picked up by a few people and retweeted/favorited (mostly other people's replies got favorited). Not a lot, but certainly more than I'm used to. It will probably seem ridiculous to you, but that relative flurry of notices from Twitter that my comment was getting exposure made the night for me. In the scheme of things, it means absolutely nothing. But it was just the little boost I needed to think I could conquer this.
Dinner at Denny's with Lockford and Kithrak. I ordered the Superbird and tweeted it. Since Kithrak often makes references to being a bird and doing bird things, I figured an oblique reference to him being a Superbird! was a riot. [Crickets] Went over like a lead balloon. Oh well, they can't all be gems.
Friday - I went to a few panels and managed to pull off a solid four-hour stint of suiting, but two things stood out for me: The GoH dinner and the Friday night dance.
I was in the Fursuit Prosthetics panel, held by Kodi. I stayed a couple minutes after to say "Hi!" and thank him for all the great work he did on Chase. This meant that I trotted up to the Guest of Honor dinner fully suited and after they'd already started seating.
Fortunately, a table near the stage had a seat open and there were a few people I knew sitting at it: Kithrak,
lostwolf123 and reaper-san(Wingo) While some people would think that sitting at a table full of strangers would be better for my purposes, those people haven't dealt with this crap. Six strangers and three familiar faces was just fine, thank you. And Wingo, as one of those "recognize my face but don't really know" people, counted as a half for each side. :)
The short version [Ha!] is that I had a nice time. Finding somewhere to put Chase's head and eating in a white fursuit were challenges, but it all went pretty smoothly. After dinner, Wingo was fully on the "friend" side of the equation. We shared some of our backgrounds, commiserated on a few topics, and just chilled out. [And look, I know openly talking about friendships can seem odd, but this is a journal and I'm being completely honest with all this stuff. We can save the "I'm so cool I don't have feelings about stuff" for later, 'kay?]
At some time, I went back to the hotel and de-suited. I have no clue how, but I ended up at the dance. I managed to be there just as the first song started: You Spin Me Round by Dead or Alive. /ear twitch
So far this con, every song I'd heard was some form of an audio torture scheme. No discernible rhythm, bass cranked up so loud there was no point in anything else, and sounds that I can only describe as foghorn, speaker feedback and a two year old banging pots together. On ritalin.
But the stuff they played for two hours... I knew every single song. True, I stayed in the corner, away from the dance floor. Didn't talk to anyone, barely interacted even with Lockford. But I danced. I bounced. I felt comfortable. I felt like the old me - before the medication issues began. I was happy! (Bohemian Rhapsody got an especially great response from the crowd.)
I babbled a little of this to Lockford on our way back to the hotel. Then I said, "Every con should have a Retro night!"
I believe that he had the best of intentions when he cautiously said, "That's just not going to happen. Everybody at the cons listens to the other stuff and that's what they're going to play."
Well, that was a bucket of ice water on my good time. In two sentences, I went from feeling included and comfortable to being reminded that, in most ways, I'm an outsider. And pretty much will always be. I'm a little older than most of you. After the chemical shift in my brain, I spent years isolating myself from what was current in the world.
And yet, later in the hotel, Lockford handed me his phone with an audio file queued up. "You know, after a con, some DJs will upload their playlists for people to listen to. This one I saw at AC."
It wasn't terrible - it had a steady percussive beat and lyrics, even if they were songs I'd never heard before, they still could be danced to. If I had the ability to raise one eyebrow... well, that's the look I gave him and said, "Is this your way of telling me to "Get used to it'?". He just nodded and grinned.
So - this meant a lot to me. Seriously. Just that tiny bit of effort, an intention to help me rather than just say "Deal with it", turned me mostly back around. Sure I was still a little down, but seeing the difference between hiding from social situations and getting out and meeting people, really changed my perspective.
Now look, I don't know if that was Lockford's intention. But that's how I took it.
Saturday was less successful. There was my first ever Fursuit Parade and the less said about that, the better (but I'll hit the important bits anyway). I walked it "alone", as in I didn't know anyone near me at all. The person in front of me did things that blocked my sight lines and I was concerned for some safety issues, and I'm sure everyone knows by now that we had to wait about 20+ minutes in some pretty hot sun to get the picture taken.
The end result was that I got out of my suit and through circumstance, didn't get back in for the day. I did go to the dance competition by myself to cheer on the dancers I knew (well, knew of): JD and TK, Hogwash, and Daiquiri (unknown to him, we're suit brothers).
Afterwards, I ran into Kithrak and we hung out for a bit, went to the Variety show, and then to Denny's to get dinner. By now, I was starting to wear out and not feeling great. Going for four days straight (Wed - Sat) was draining. I'd been up late (for me) every night and wasn't sleeping well at all (new places does that to me). The day's heat probably contributed as well. The Saturday Dance was gearing up as I headed back to the hotel to suit up.
I never made it. With the worst timing, I had hit my limit. The number one event to go to in suit (for my purposes) and I spent it crashed out in the hotel room. On the good side, I did catch some well needed sleep. But I think I may have disappointed some people who were kinda actually cheering for me, in their own way.
Going to watch the fursuit games is the only thing I remember about Sunday at the con. But that night, I went to the fursuit bowling event hosted by
kijani_lion and I went in suit. The bowling part of the event was difficult for me. Not only did I bowl hideously, but I was sweating up a storm and I was having trouble getting any airflow in the head. I managed to complete the first game, and then planted myself in the bowling alley's "headless lounge."
The great part of this event though, was meeting a bunch of new people. Sure, just some casual, super low key interactions, but still awesome. Kijani,
flixthefox, 
eaite and a few others. The highlights:
Clatchet (FlixTheFox) is hilarious. I felt awkward because I had no clue how to say that he was a blast to hang with without sounding totally stupid. His sense of humor is hard to describe, but it's very rapid fire and not the kind that is "laugh out loud" funny. Anyway, he was great.
Eaite is another suit brother. He wasn't wearing his, but he recognized that mine was a Kodi suit and came over to chat about that. (Towards the end, I put my suit back on and just sat, watching the furs bowl.) We chatted for a few minutes about suiting and character design, when Clatchet stopped by to say he was making a run back to the hotel if anyone wanted to head out.
I said my goodbye to Eaite and he asked if I was going to FC. I said that I was and his response was a simple "See you there!"
I know, I *know* that it's just a polite way to end a conversation. But my brain decided to convert that to a warm fuzzy. I'd had a conversation with a total stranger that I didn't stumble through with awkward pauses, and I didn't replay every sentence to find out where I screwed something up. And the person gave me a sign that they wouldn't mind if we chatted again. It's a small victory, I admit. But it's still a victory for someone like me.
Monday was the start of PCD (post con depression) - my first experience with it. The con hadn't been a non-stop rush of activity for me. Instead, it was several short bits of awesomeness. But still, I was a little sad that it was ending. My flight out was at 12-something and once again, I was on the same flight as the guys from San Diego. But this time, I knew them a little better. I got to chat with Raishiin before the others showed up and I think we made the verbal equivalent of a fist bump. This time, I got to sit with the guys on the plane. We were all exhausted and mostly kept to ourselves, but the occasional chit chat felt comfortable. Maybe I wasn't an official member of "Club Cool", but I didn't feel quite so outside. Some of us even went out for dinner once we were back in San Diego (sushi, of course).
Through circumstance, I chose to withdraw from social activities for several years - I got back into furry fandom to change that. Secretly, I had a fantasy that going to this con would be a magic wand that would just undo all the crap from the past decade. I'd magically become a social butterfly, get invited to parties, people would say "Hey Brexton!" as we passed in the hall, maybe I'd even get flirted with. Of course I know those are ridiculous fantasies and not even actual goals to strive for; they're just byproducts of what I really want: to be more outgoing, get to know people, and make friends. I didn't destroy my problems by spending one week at a con, but I feel I did take huge steps and ended up with a feeling of reassurance that it is possible. I can do this.
[Warning - I write these entries in a detailed format that's a mix of review and novel. Take the time, I hope it's entertaining for you.]
TL;DR - AWESOME!!!!
Now, with some context... or "What you need to know in order to get why this con was super mega awesome for me." I'll keep the backstory as short as I can.
Several years ago, I kinda got messed up by some anti-depressants I had been prescribed. It left me with some issues, including a pretty strong case of social anxiety. It's one of the main reasons I got back into the furry fandom - to break through some of this crap. To be honest, after five months, I hadn't been terribly successful.
I made the flight for RF back in June, I think, but cancelled it the next day. "Flight and hotel cost too much." "I don't know anyone who'll be there." "I don't want to take too much time off work." And so on... But two weeks later, I bucked up and committed to the con - spending the money will force me to go and deal with this shit. As punishment for my hesitation, Fate decided to have all Hilton rooms sell out so I had to book the Clarion.
Fast forward to late August - I've made a few tenuous connections in the fandom: Kithrak, Lockford, and a few others who at least recognize my face. Well, naturally everyone starts talking about their RF plans. Lockford had planned to go, but had waited to commit and now didn't have a room. In an unusual show of directness, I asked Lockford if he wanted to split my room. Boom - some of the cost issues taken care of.
Two of my characters' (Tobias and Chase) fursuits came in. At this point, I've suited for a total of 40 minutes - 20 as Chase and 20 as Tobias. Trying to fly with two suits was a little too much for me to deal with logistically as my first long-distance con, so I had to make a choice. I went with Chase, since the creator
kodi_pup was going to be there.There - I think that's just about all the background. Now begins the trip report.
I get to the airport, and a group of SD furs are travelling on the same flight: "iconraishiin:,
reaper-san, 
raket, and 
that-blue-dog-on-the-left They're playing Cards Against Humanity and tell me to pull up some floor and join in. I end up being pretty silent through the whole thing - so strike one on my goal of interaction. Even though we were on Southwest, I boarded early and didn't get to sit near them. No chance to correct the airport mistake of silence. Not an auspicious start.Lockford was on a much earlier plane and was waiting in Seattle for 6-7 hours for me to get there and check in. He jumped into suit and hit up the Hilton lobby. I hung out and watched how he and other fursuiters interacted with people, what they did as "idle animations", and so on.
After several hours, back in the hotel room. I had a bunch of questions - maybe a few too many all at one time. But he was great answering them - obviously this is a guy who loves what he does. I don't think he knows it, but he gets a little more animated when he talks about suiting. And he had lots of great advice - stuff that should really be wrapped up into a Fursuiting 102 panel. Things that make so much sense, but I'd never heard anyone say on a blog or YouTubed panel. Like: "It's going to take time to break in your suit - to learn how it works with your body." Duh - sounds obvious when someone says it out loud, right?
Anyway, this is a trend that continued throughout the con: Lockford giving up part of his time to help me out in lots of little ways. Suiting advice, headless lounge info, introductions to new people, and a ton of history about the fandom (cons, events, luminaries, etc). Never did he set himself up as an "expert" or anything - he was just helping me out. When we were suiting, some people who knew/recognized him would get his picture. He'd pull me into the shot to be included. Little shit like that goes a long way with me. Without him, I truly believe this con would have been yet another failed attempt to break out of my shell.
[I just re-read that paragraph and while it's all true, it might sound a little fanboyish. Look, he's just a great guy who did me a solid. Moving on.]
Thursday, at registration, I decided to upgrade to Patron. Truthfully, I really don't do well with lines, so I'm glad I upgraded. I was a sponsor at Califur and I know these cons run on a shoestring budget - so I just like to help them out. Plus, it's a standard technique: create a penalty if you don't hit your goal. In this case, I'd already spent the cash so I better do everything I can to make the con worth it. [Spoiler - I succeeded]
At some point, I suited up as Chase and made my first attempt. Another one of those Fursuiting 102 things is: "It's harder than it looks." Trying to remember all the things to do, can be tricky. Eventually, it'll all be second nature, but then - it was hard. Remembering to breath in a way to not overload the head. Keep scanning the area - always be aware of your surroundings (I did pretty well on this one). Be "on"; don't just schlep around the hotel (unless that's the character).
The big one for me was "DO SOMETHING!" I had a particular walk designed for Chase, but that's really all I did. Strut. Wave. Repeat. Always wave with the right hand because that's got the gold pawpads. Overall, that plan isn't much of a character and the outcome was what I should have expected: a few remarks about how cute the suit was but not much else.
I've made a corollary to this tip: "Interact with other fursuiters!" Draw attention to yourself - that's what you're there for!! Give 'em the ol' razzle-dazzle, but remember to share the stage! How you interact with others will leave a stronger impression about you than trying to be a solo act.
Ultimately, I made it three hours before the combination of heat, sweat, and exhaustion took its toll and I de-suited. Hey, the only other times I did this was for 20 minutes. I called it a pretty successful first "real" excursion.
"If furries aren't at the dance, where are they? #RF2014" <-- That's a tweet I made along with a pic of a mostly empty dance floor. Because of the hashtag, it got picked up by a few people and retweeted/favorited (mostly other people's replies got favorited). Not a lot, but certainly more than I'm used to. It will probably seem ridiculous to you, but that relative flurry of notices from Twitter that my comment was getting exposure made the night for me. In the scheme of things, it means absolutely nothing. But it was just the little boost I needed to think I could conquer this.
Dinner at Denny's with Lockford and Kithrak. I ordered the Superbird and tweeted it. Since Kithrak often makes references to being a bird and doing bird things, I figured an oblique reference to him being a Superbird! was a riot. [Crickets] Went over like a lead balloon. Oh well, they can't all be gems.
Friday - I went to a few panels and managed to pull off a solid four-hour stint of suiting, but two things stood out for me: The GoH dinner and the Friday night dance.
I was in the Fursuit Prosthetics panel, held by Kodi. I stayed a couple minutes after to say "Hi!" and thank him for all the great work he did on Chase. This meant that I trotted up to the Guest of Honor dinner fully suited and after they'd already started seating.
Fortunately, a table near the stage had a seat open and there were a few people I knew sitting at it: Kithrak,
lostwolf123 and reaper-san(Wingo) While some people would think that sitting at a table full of strangers would be better for my purposes, those people haven't dealt with this crap. Six strangers and three familiar faces was just fine, thank you. And Wingo, as one of those "recognize my face but don't really know" people, counted as a half for each side. :)The short version [Ha!] is that I had a nice time. Finding somewhere to put Chase's head and eating in a white fursuit were challenges, but it all went pretty smoothly. After dinner, Wingo was fully on the "friend" side of the equation. We shared some of our backgrounds, commiserated on a few topics, and just chilled out. [And look, I know openly talking about friendships can seem odd, but this is a journal and I'm being completely honest with all this stuff. We can save the "I'm so cool I don't have feelings about stuff" for later, 'kay?]
At some time, I went back to the hotel and de-suited. I have no clue how, but I ended up at the dance. I managed to be there just as the first song started: You Spin Me Round by Dead or Alive. /ear twitch
So far this con, every song I'd heard was some form of an audio torture scheme. No discernible rhythm, bass cranked up so loud there was no point in anything else, and sounds that I can only describe as foghorn, speaker feedback and a two year old banging pots together. On ritalin.
But the stuff they played for two hours... I knew every single song. True, I stayed in the corner, away from the dance floor. Didn't talk to anyone, barely interacted even with Lockford. But I danced. I bounced. I felt comfortable. I felt like the old me - before the medication issues began. I was happy! (Bohemian Rhapsody got an especially great response from the crowd.)
I babbled a little of this to Lockford on our way back to the hotel. Then I said, "Every con should have a Retro night!"
I believe that he had the best of intentions when he cautiously said, "That's just not going to happen. Everybody at the cons listens to the other stuff and that's what they're going to play."
Well, that was a bucket of ice water on my good time. In two sentences, I went from feeling included and comfortable to being reminded that, in most ways, I'm an outsider. And pretty much will always be. I'm a little older than most of you. After the chemical shift in my brain, I spent years isolating myself from what was current in the world.
And yet, later in the hotel, Lockford handed me his phone with an audio file queued up. "You know, after a con, some DJs will upload their playlists for people to listen to. This one I saw at AC."
It wasn't terrible - it had a steady percussive beat and lyrics, even if they were songs I'd never heard before, they still could be danced to. If I had the ability to raise one eyebrow... well, that's the look I gave him and said, "Is this your way of telling me to "Get used to it'?". He just nodded and grinned.
So - this meant a lot to me. Seriously. Just that tiny bit of effort, an intention to help me rather than just say "Deal with it", turned me mostly back around. Sure I was still a little down, but seeing the difference between hiding from social situations and getting out and meeting people, really changed my perspective.
Now look, I don't know if that was Lockford's intention. But that's how I took it.
Saturday was less successful. There was my first ever Fursuit Parade and the less said about that, the better (but I'll hit the important bits anyway). I walked it "alone", as in I didn't know anyone near me at all. The person in front of me did things that blocked my sight lines and I was concerned for some safety issues, and I'm sure everyone knows by now that we had to wait about 20+ minutes in some pretty hot sun to get the picture taken.
The end result was that I got out of my suit and through circumstance, didn't get back in for the day. I did go to the dance competition by myself to cheer on the dancers I knew (well, knew of): JD and TK, Hogwash, and Daiquiri (unknown to him, we're suit brothers).
Afterwards, I ran into Kithrak and we hung out for a bit, went to the Variety show, and then to Denny's to get dinner. By now, I was starting to wear out and not feeling great. Going for four days straight (Wed - Sat) was draining. I'd been up late (for me) every night and wasn't sleeping well at all (new places does that to me). The day's heat probably contributed as well. The Saturday Dance was gearing up as I headed back to the hotel to suit up.
I never made it. With the worst timing, I had hit my limit. The number one event to go to in suit (for my purposes) and I spent it crashed out in the hotel room. On the good side, I did catch some well needed sleep. But I think I may have disappointed some people who were kinda actually cheering for me, in their own way.
Going to watch the fursuit games is the only thing I remember about Sunday at the con. But that night, I went to the fursuit bowling event hosted by
kijani_lion and I went in suit. The bowling part of the event was difficult for me. Not only did I bowl hideously, but I was sweating up a storm and I was having trouble getting any airflow in the head. I managed to complete the first game, and then planted myself in the bowling alley's "headless lounge."The great part of this event though, was meeting a bunch of new people. Sure, just some casual, super low key interactions, but still awesome. Kijani,
flixthefox, 
eaite and a few others. The highlights:Clatchet (FlixTheFox) is hilarious. I felt awkward because I had no clue how to say that he was a blast to hang with without sounding totally stupid. His sense of humor is hard to describe, but it's very rapid fire and not the kind that is "laugh out loud" funny. Anyway, he was great.
Eaite is another suit brother. He wasn't wearing his, but he recognized that mine was a Kodi suit and came over to chat about that. (Towards the end, I put my suit back on and just sat, watching the furs bowl.) We chatted for a few minutes about suiting and character design, when Clatchet stopped by to say he was making a run back to the hotel if anyone wanted to head out.
I said my goodbye to Eaite and he asked if I was going to FC. I said that I was and his response was a simple "See you there!"
I know, I *know* that it's just a polite way to end a conversation. But my brain decided to convert that to a warm fuzzy. I'd had a conversation with a total stranger that I didn't stumble through with awkward pauses, and I didn't replay every sentence to find out where I screwed something up. And the person gave me a sign that they wouldn't mind if we chatted again. It's a small victory, I admit. But it's still a victory for someone like me.
Monday was the start of PCD (post con depression) - my first experience with it. The con hadn't been a non-stop rush of activity for me. Instead, it was several short bits of awesomeness. But still, I was a little sad that it was ending. My flight out was at 12-something and once again, I was on the same flight as the guys from San Diego. But this time, I knew them a little better. I got to chat with Raishiin before the others showed up and I think we made the verbal equivalent of a fist bump. This time, I got to sit with the guys on the plane. We were all exhausted and mostly kept to ourselves, but the occasional chit chat felt comfortable. Maybe I wasn't an official member of "Club Cool", but I didn't feel quite so outside. Some of us even went out for dinner once we were back in San Diego (sushi, of course).
Through circumstance, I chose to withdraw from social activities for several years - I got back into furry fandom to change that. Secretly, I had a fantasy that going to this con would be a magic wand that would just undo all the crap from the past decade. I'd magically become a social butterfly, get invited to parties, people would say "Hey Brexton!" as we passed in the hall, maybe I'd even get flirted with. Of course I know those are ridiculous fantasies and not even actual goals to strive for; they're just byproducts of what I really want: to be more outgoing, get to know people, and make friends. I didn't destroy my problems by spending one week at a con, but I feel I did take huge steps and ended up with a feeling of reassurance that it is possible. I can do this.
RainFurrest was great
Posted 11 years agoBy the way - this con has been awesome so far! If you see me or Chase the Husky, come on up and say "Hi!" Love making new friends!
BLFC - Good to go
Posted 11 years agoAll registered for BLFC - hotel booked and everything! See you there!
RainFurrest
Posted 11 years agoGetting ready to pack! Flying in Wednesday, flying out Monday. Looks like taking two suits might be difficult - packing and flying wise.
I'll definitely be hitting up all the "first time" panels - suiting, handlers, repairs, etc. I'm really gonna need some practice coming up with character posts that aren't horribly cliché (hands on each side of the muzzle, knees slightly bent).
Say "Hi" if you see either Chase or Tobias up there!!!
I'll definitely be hitting up all the "first time" panels - suiting, handlers, repairs, etc. I'm really gonna need some practice coming up with character posts that aren't horribly cliché (hands on each side of the muzzle, knees slightly bent).
Say "Hi" if you see either Chase or Tobias up there!!!
RainFurrest - I'm in!
Posted 11 years agoAll booked for the trip. Flying out on Wednesday and back home on Monday. Staying at the Clarion next door (boo), and picked up a ticket for the GoH dinner.
Tobias should be ready in a week or two and it's **possible** Chase could be ready by then as well.
Tobias should be ready in a week or two and it's **possible** Chase could be ready by then as well.
Getting Ready for Califur!
Posted 11 years agoSo Califur is in just a few days. I've got a sketchbook ready for tons of artistic doodles from, well, pretty much anyone I can find. Got my Brexton badge by JD Puppy printed out - just need to get it laminated. For about 30 seconds I considered wearing my Under Armor pants/shirt/balaclava and an "Emperor's New Fursuit." (My actual suit should arrive in time for ComicCon - and it will be awesome!)
For my first furry con, this should be a blast!
For my first furry con, this should be a blast!
One Month in Current Fandom
Posted 11 years agoSo like I've said before, I was a fan of anthro characters and associated indie comics quite a few years ago - but never got into the organized fandom. Even as an interest/hobby, I dropped out and only recently got back in. Very recently. One month ago (April 19) was my first furry meet.
In that month, I've gone to four meetups with varying degrees of success, watched far too many hours of furry youtube (panel videos, fursuit tutorials/unboxings/performance tips, dance contests, con videos, etc), started work on an anthro novel series, designed the primary and secondary cast, commissioned several pieces of art, designed four fursuits that are being built (one was for someone else), made a duct-tape dummy, built a fursuit maintenance area in the apartment, registered for two cons,
Overall, it's been a pretty busy month.
In that month, I've gone to four meetups with varying degrees of success, watched far too many hours of furry youtube (panel videos, fursuit tutorials/unboxings/performance tips, dance contests, con videos, etc), started work on an anthro novel series, designed the primary and secondary cast, commissioned several pieces of art, designed four fursuits that are being built (one was for someone else), made a duct-tape dummy, built a fursuit maintenance area in the apartment, registered for two cons,
Overall, it's been a pretty busy month.
