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Thanks for the Adventure!
General | Posted 13 years agoI made it back to Winnipeg a couple of hours ago. Yeah, it was a long-ass drive, but absolutely worth the effort both ways!
Anthrocon, as usual, was amazing! I was so damn busy though! Way too many awesome people to see. I was constantly being invited to two or even three events at the same time, and had to juggle them; I was all over the place. It reminded me of why I want to try a smaller con sometime, haha. I averaged 21-hour days with barely any downtime. I made it through all of my military training without any caffeine, but during this con, caffeine and I became good friends. Now I gotta wean myself off of it. >w>
This con had everything: good friends, drinking, dancing, kissing, drawing, income, delicious food, and numerous moments that I'm gonna remember for a long time. I handed out a ton of business cards, and collected a lot in return. I want to thank everyone who stopped by my table in Artist Alley to see my work and say hi, and especially those who commissioned me. I really appreciate it!
I'll get around to scanning the stuff I got soon. I just need a bit of R&R first; that was a tiring journey. But I gotta get back to my flow of art study and practice shortly, so I can return next year and just blow my previous work out of the water.
I can't wait to see everyone again. I gotta get my ass to another con or two, because seeing you people just once per year is not nearly enough. You're all way too awesome for that. But until then, thanks for the adventure!
Anthrocon, as usual, was amazing! I was so damn busy though! Way too many awesome people to see. I was constantly being invited to two or even three events at the same time, and had to juggle them; I was all over the place. It reminded me of why I want to try a smaller con sometime, haha. I averaged 21-hour days with barely any downtime. I made it through all of my military training without any caffeine, but during this con, caffeine and I became good friends. Now I gotta wean myself off of it. >w>
This con had everything: good friends, drinking, dancing, kissing, drawing, income, delicious food, and numerous moments that I'm gonna remember for a long time. I handed out a ton of business cards, and collected a lot in return. I want to thank everyone who stopped by my table in Artist Alley to see my work and say hi, and especially those who commissioned me. I really appreciate it!
I'll get around to scanning the stuff I got soon. I just need a bit of R&R first; that was a tiring journey. But I gotta get back to my flow of art study and practice shortly, so I can return next year and just blow my previous work out of the water.
I can't wait to see everyone again. I gotta get my ass to another con or two, because seeing you people just once per year is not nearly enough. You're all way too awesome for that. But until then, thanks for the adventure!
Made It to Pittsburgh Safely
General | Posted 13 years agoJust posting this to let my friends know that I've arrived safely in Pittsburgh. But I'm a rockin' driver who's done this route before, so that's to be expected. B3
Hope to see you all soon!
Hope to see you all soon!
Anthrocon Bound!
General | Posted 13 years agoGoing to AC! See you when I see you!
Things to Do in Pittsburgh (Besides AC)
General | Posted 13 years agoMan, I'm stoked to travel back to the States. I love visiting foreign countries! This time tomorrow, I'll be on the road! It's gonna be a long-ass drive, but I beat it once before with 
chicago-lollie and 
corbinbusker, so I know what to expect. The last two years, I've gotten to Pittsburgh on Wednesday, the day before Anthrocon starts. This time, I'll be checking into my hotel on Tuesday, which gives me a free day in Pittsburgh.
Got any suggestions of things to do in Pittsburgh, besides the con?
chicago-lollie and 
corbinbusker, so I know what to expect. The last two years, I've gotten to Pittsburgh on Wednesday, the day before Anthrocon starts. This time, I'll be checking into my hotel on Tuesday, which gives me a free day in Pittsburgh.Got any suggestions of things to do in Pittsburgh, besides the con?
Staples: That Was a Pain in the Ass
General | Posted 13 years agoMan, Staples Business Depot is incompetent. I took my SD card down there to print some business cards and pictures for my Artist Alley display. My printer is out of ink, and I don't have any cardstock paper, so I figured this would be the easiest route to go with my limited time and budget. Now, I know damn well how to design for print. That's exactly what I studied in college. But the people working there apparently know just the bare minimum of how to run things.
Firstly, I designed my card to the exact specifications as listed by their website, including a bleed. I saved it in three different formats, just to be safe. Then, when I brought it down, I was told that they couldn't print it because it didn't fit their template. They gave me a preview of what it would look like with however they were trying to make it, and the result was a run-of-the-mill card with name, business, e-mail, et cetera listed on the side; and my card, in its entirety, took the place of the logo—a card within a card.
So, plan B: I go home, put ten cards on a letterhead-sized file, and bring that back. This is kind of a roundabout pain-in-the-ass way, but I'm determined to get this done. I have them print fifteen sheets, totaling 150 cards, and start to cut them myself. Only when I'm part-way done do I realize that they fucked up the scaling, making my cards slightly smaller than a typical business card. But I'm well into it at this point, and I'm tired of dealing with these people, so I just say "screw it" and keep going. This year, I'll have mini cards to distribute.
I did have them print my posters for my display as well, but again, the scaling was all messed up. I asked that they be printed on 11 x 17 paper, so I could cut them to 8.5 x 11, without showing white edges. They just could not figure out how to print them to 100% scale, which was especially puzzling, considering they got a badge printed correctly—although they didn't know how to enable printer marks for that one either. So these posters ended up being expanded to fit the page—way too big. The clerk tried scaling it to half of that size, which ended up too small. Finally, I used a ruler and some basic mathematics to estimate how to scale this thing properly, to work around however the clerk was screwing this up. The result was near perfect, finally.
Never gonna try that place again. Still, I'm glad to have that all done. Now I just gotta get my clothes ready for my trip. Loads of laundry to do!
Firstly, I designed my card to the exact specifications as listed by their website, including a bleed. I saved it in three different formats, just to be safe. Then, when I brought it down, I was told that they couldn't print it because it didn't fit their template. They gave me a preview of what it would look like with however they were trying to make it, and the result was a run-of-the-mill card with name, business, e-mail, et cetera listed on the side; and my card, in its entirety, took the place of the logo—a card within a card.
So, plan B: I go home, put ten cards on a letterhead-sized file, and bring that back. This is kind of a roundabout pain-in-the-ass way, but I'm determined to get this done. I have them print fifteen sheets, totaling 150 cards, and start to cut them myself. Only when I'm part-way done do I realize that they fucked up the scaling, making my cards slightly smaller than a typical business card. But I'm well into it at this point, and I'm tired of dealing with these people, so I just say "screw it" and keep going. This year, I'll have mini cards to distribute.
I did have them print my posters for my display as well, but again, the scaling was all messed up. I asked that they be printed on 11 x 17 paper, so I could cut them to 8.5 x 11, without showing white edges. They just could not figure out how to print them to 100% scale, which was especially puzzling, considering they got a badge printed correctly—although they didn't know how to enable printer marks for that one either. So these posters ended up being expanded to fit the page—way too big. The clerk tried scaling it to half of that size, which ended up too small. Finally, I used a ruler and some basic mathematics to estimate how to scale this thing properly, to work around however the clerk was screwing this up. The result was near perfect, finally.
Never gonna try that place again. Still, I'm glad to have that all done. Now I just gotta get my clothes ready for my trip. Loads of laundry to do!
Roger Waters and Pride
General | Posted 13 years agoI had a pretty wicked weekend!
When I was a teenager, I watched a Pink Floyd concert on DVD, when they played on the Berlin Wall. It was a fantastic show, but I felt a bit sad that I'd never get to see them perform live. Well guess which concert I went to on Friday night: Roger Waters, as he performed The Wall!
It was awesome! We already know just how damn good The Wall is, and the accompanying visuals were spectacular! They had a partially-constructed white brick wall, like the album cover, cutting across the stage, illuminated by a few projectors. As they performed the first half of the show, they gradually built it up, brick by brick, until it was finally closed in, reaching a solid thirty feet in height. The projectors were so finely calibrated, that they would place the brick before it was individually illuminated, making it seem as though it faded in from the ether, even as incredible videos were cast onto it. More than once, I caught excerpts from the novel 1984 projected onto the wall.
The animatronics were also quite impressive. They had gigantic marionettes for a couple of songs—grotesque caricatures of a mother and teacher figure, similar to the music videos made long ago. I especially liked the teacher; he was lanky, hunched over, with an exaggerated nose and immensely-thick glasses that shone a piercing purple gaze over a live choir of school children, who in turn sang and gestured back at him rebelliously. They also had a pig blimp covered in graffiti that flew around the arena, which my dad said once deflated in mid-air during on of Pink Floyd's concerts, haha.
The whole show climaxed with the song "The Trial," where they tore down the wall! They knocked the whole thing over, almost spilling it on top of the audience. It was so awesome. Definitely one of the best shows I've been to, I think even topping KISS in the visuals department.
Combined with the Madeon show I saw the week earlier, I've been having some pretty unique musical experiences.
Nothing too eventful occurred on Saturday. I used the time to work on art, and then got in some good rest. Sunday, though, was a great time. I went to church to see my niece get baptized. When that was done, I discreetly ducked out and caught a bus downtown, where I went to the Pride festival!
It was my first time. This has been a really great year for me, since I started coming out. I ended up rockin' my blue blazer and jeans, a pink gingham shirt and pocket square, and a purple tie—all the colours of the bi pride flag. I also had my little bi pride string wristband. I smiled when I saw a bunch of teenagers wearing rainbow make-up and "free hugs" signs get on the bus, and then when I got to the festival, oh man—I'm so used to being in the closet; it was really heartwarming to see just masses of queer people partying around the Manitoba Legislature, parading in the streets, and running amok over the Forks. I even ran into my old guidance counselor out there—like, "...surprise!"
euchre, 
vallhund, a bunch of other friends, and I joined in the parade, like a big rainbow mob moving across downtown. We ducked out to head to the Forks, where loads of tents were set up by the outdoor stage, with music blasting. I ended up scoring a bunch of free goodies, and ended up chatting to a couple of Leading Seamen who were, stereotypically-enough, manning a Navy recruitment tent for the Canadian Forces. It was a good time! I've been having a lot of great experiences that I would have missed if I hadn't started opening up about my sexuality. I'm so glad I went.
When I was a teenager, I watched a Pink Floyd concert on DVD, when they played on the Berlin Wall. It was a fantastic show, but I felt a bit sad that I'd never get to see them perform live. Well guess which concert I went to on Friday night: Roger Waters, as he performed The Wall!
It was awesome! We already know just how damn good The Wall is, and the accompanying visuals were spectacular! They had a partially-constructed white brick wall, like the album cover, cutting across the stage, illuminated by a few projectors. As they performed the first half of the show, they gradually built it up, brick by brick, until it was finally closed in, reaching a solid thirty feet in height. The projectors were so finely calibrated, that they would place the brick before it was individually illuminated, making it seem as though it faded in from the ether, even as incredible videos were cast onto it. More than once, I caught excerpts from the novel 1984 projected onto the wall.
The animatronics were also quite impressive. They had gigantic marionettes for a couple of songs—grotesque caricatures of a mother and teacher figure, similar to the music videos made long ago. I especially liked the teacher; he was lanky, hunched over, with an exaggerated nose and immensely-thick glasses that shone a piercing purple gaze over a live choir of school children, who in turn sang and gestured back at him rebelliously. They also had a pig blimp covered in graffiti that flew around the arena, which my dad said once deflated in mid-air during on of Pink Floyd's concerts, haha.
The whole show climaxed with the song "The Trial," where they tore down the wall! They knocked the whole thing over, almost spilling it on top of the audience. It was so awesome. Definitely one of the best shows I've been to, I think even topping KISS in the visuals department.
Combined with the Madeon show I saw the week earlier, I've been having some pretty unique musical experiences.
Nothing too eventful occurred on Saturday. I used the time to work on art, and then got in some good rest. Sunday, though, was a great time. I went to church to see my niece get baptized. When that was done, I discreetly ducked out and caught a bus downtown, where I went to the Pride festival!
It was my first time. This has been a really great year for me, since I started coming out. I ended up rockin' my blue blazer and jeans, a pink gingham shirt and pocket square, and a purple tie—all the colours of the bi pride flag. I also had my little bi pride string wristband. I smiled when I saw a bunch of teenagers wearing rainbow make-up and "free hugs" signs get on the bus, and then when I got to the festival, oh man—I'm so used to being in the closet; it was really heartwarming to see just masses of queer people partying around the Manitoba Legislature, parading in the streets, and running amok over the Forks. I even ran into my old guidance counselor out there—like, "...surprise!"
euchre, 
vallhund, a bunch of other friends, and I joined in the parade, like a big rainbow mob moving across downtown. We ducked out to head to the Forks, where loads of tents were set up by the outdoor stage, with music blasting. I ended up scoring a bunch of free goodies, and ended up chatting to a couple of Leading Seamen who were, stereotypically-enough, manning a Navy recruitment tent for the Canadian Forces. It was a good time! I've been having a lot of great experiences that I would have missed if I hadn't started opening up about my sexuality. I'm so glad I went.Trying to Get a Phone for the US
General | Posted 13 years agoMy first year at AC, I had an American pay-as-you-go phone, given to me by 
daswuetend. It was sweet, because my Canadian phone wouldn't work internationally. The new one rocked, but for some reason, I couldn't reactivate it when I went back last year. Thus, I was phoneless, and it was a real pain in the ass to try and find people.
This time, I don't want to repeat that, so I placed an order with Virgin Mobile USA to buy a phone online. With their advertised 3 to 5 day shipping, I figured I'd have it shipped up here, and be good to go when I travel south. I know sometimes things take longer to ship over the border, so I sent an e-mail to confirm the expected delivery time. After a delay of a few days, I get a short reply: "Sorry, we don't ship internationally. Hope this helps."
Uh, no, that doesn't help anything at all. Nothing on the site stopped me from entering my Canadian shipping address, and the payment went through just fine. So somewhere, Virgin USA has a phone kickin' around with my name on it.
I spent, like, an hour-and-a-half online with an agent, trying to figure out where my phone is. It was really not helpful.
Agent: Unfortunately, we do not ship outside of US.
Agent: Do you have any other questions that I can answer for you today?
Me: Well, yeah. Since I can't collect this phone here, what do I do about the bill I've already paid Virgin? Your company has a phone somewhere with my name on it, but it can't be shipped to me.
Agent: I would like to inform you that If you submitted the Canada address, the order would have been placed.
Me: Meaning... it actually is on its way up here?
Me: I'm sorry; I'm a bit confused. I don't fully understand what you're implying by that.
Agent: As per the company policy, an order can be placed only if you mention all information correctly and address must belong to US except P.O. Box and Military address.
The hell?
I've only got a small window remaining to get a phone that works in the US. I opted for this one, because it came with a deal—$40 in bonus credit, if it's activated by the 4th, which obviously isn't going to happen now. And at the end of all of it, what advice did I get?
Can't help you—phone an agent instead.
daswuetend. It was sweet, because my Canadian phone wouldn't work internationally. The new one rocked, but for some reason, I couldn't reactivate it when I went back last year. Thus, I was phoneless, and it was a real pain in the ass to try and find people.This time, I don't want to repeat that, so I placed an order with Virgin Mobile USA to buy a phone online. With their advertised 3 to 5 day shipping, I figured I'd have it shipped up here, and be good to go when I travel south. I know sometimes things take longer to ship over the border, so I sent an e-mail to confirm the expected delivery time. After a delay of a few days, I get a short reply: "Sorry, we don't ship internationally. Hope this helps."
Uh, no, that doesn't help anything at all. Nothing on the site stopped me from entering my Canadian shipping address, and the payment went through just fine. So somewhere, Virgin USA has a phone kickin' around with my name on it.
I spent, like, an hour-and-a-half online with an agent, trying to figure out where my phone is. It was really not helpful.
Agent: Unfortunately, we do not ship outside of US.
Agent: Do you have any other questions that I can answer for you today?
Me: Well, yeah. Since I can't collect this phone here, what do I do about the bill I've already paid Virgin? Your company has a phone somewhere with my name on it, but it can't be shipped to me.
Agent: I would like to inform you that If you submitted the Canada address, the order would have been placed.
Me: Meaning... it actually is on its way up here?
Me: I'm sorry; I'm a bit confused. I don't fully understand what you're implying by that.
Agent: As per the company policy, an order can be placed only if you mention all information correctly and address must belong to US except P.O. Box and Military address.
The hell?
I've only got a small window remaining to get a phone that works in the US. I opted for this one, because it came with a deal—$40 in bonus credit, if it's activated by the 4th, which obviously isn't going to happen now. And at the end of all of it, what advice did I get?
Can't help you—phone an agent instead.
https://youtu.be/7mfA1jNiqoURansom: Confirmed for Artist Alley
General | Posted 13 years agoThe Anthrocon Artist Alley results have been posted! This is their first year doing it with a lottery online, instead of on-site each day. I scored table space for Saturday and Sunday! That's pretty rad, because a number of my friends also got tables on those days. Maybe I'll set up shop next to 
crux again, like last year. We seem to draw in some similar clients, haha.
Along with Crux, my buddies
axelsson, 
pyrokai, 
strype (who I sat next to two years ago), vallhund, and 
zippiner scored Saturday seats. Looks like 
gravewalker, 
ritts, 
tommicat, and Zippiner again landed Sunday seats. So chances are, I'm gonna find some rad people to art next to!
I was hoping to draw on Friday (and take Sunday off, like last year), but at least I can attend the
dancerfurs panel now! Man, I'm getting stoked. Artist Alley is so much fun! I get to interact with so many people, and take some of the edge off of my trip's costs by doing my favourite hobby. I can't wait. :D
crux again, like last year. We seem to draw in some similar clients, haha.Along with Crux, my buddies
axelsson, 
pyrokai, 
strype (who I sat next to two years ago), vallhund, and 
zippiner scored Saturday seats. Looks like 
gravewalker, 
ritts, 
tommicat, and Zippiner again landed Sunday seats. So chances are, I'm gonna find some rad people to art next to!I was hoping to draw on Friday (and take Sunday off, like last year), but at least I can attend the
dancerfurs panel now! Man, I'm getting stoked. Artist Alley is so much fun! I get to interact with so many people, and take some of the edge off of my trip's costs by doing my favourite hobby. I can't wait. :DAnthrocon 2012 Meme
General | Posted 13 years agoI wanna bump that old journal off of my page, so have the AC meme instead!
How do you want to be addressed?
Call me my real name if you know it, otherwise "Ransom" will do! I answer to both.
Gender?
All man, baby. B3
Age?
Twenty-five, though you wouldn't guess it.
What do you look like?
Like my fursona! Really, I'm a thin white dude with brown spiky hair.
Where/how can I find you?
Come find me in Artist Alley! Other than that, it's random luck, 'cause I'll be zipping all over the place like the last two years.
How are you getting there?
Rooooaaaad triiiiip!
What hotel are you staying at?
The luxurious Omni!
Which days will you be attending?
All of 'em! I'll be in Pittsburgh from Tuesday to Monday.
Who will you be with?
You!
What is your main purpose for attending?
It's my chance to see many of my closest friends all at once, as well as get my unadulterated furfag on for a week straight.
Can I talk to you?
NO SHUT UP GO AWAY
Yeah, of course! I'm not shy at all. Come say hi. :D
Can I take pictures with you?
Yeah, why the hell not?
Can I touch/hug/cuddle you?
If you'll want to cuddle me, you'll have to successfully woo me first.
I'm not afraid of physical contact, but you should know what's acceptable; just don't randomly scritch me, alright? Some guy did that a couple of years ago, and it really creeped me out. But let's exchange handshakes, hugs, and brofists, for sure. :D
Oh, also, if you know how to dance, let's totally do that! If you know how to rumba or cha-cha-cha, that'd be especially awesome.
Can I hang out with you?
If you shower regularly, then yes!
Do you go to parties?
This whole thing is one big party!
Do you fursuit/costume?
'Fraid not. I don't have a fursuit.
What is the best way to reach you?
Psychic mind link. I'm not sure if I'll have a working phone while I'm down there.
Anything else?
I am so stoked for AC! I've been looking forward to it since AC. I've got friends coming in from all over the world. Oh man oh man oh man, it's gonna be awesome! \>W</
How do you want to be addressed?
Call me my real name if you know it, otherwise "Ransom" will do! I answer to both.
Gender?
All man, baby. B3
Age?
Twenty-five, though you wouldn't guess it.
What do you look like?
Like my fursona! Really, I'm a thin white dude with brown spiky hair.
Where/how can I find you?
Come find me in Artist Alley! Other than that, it's random luck, 'cause I'll be zipping all over the place like the last two years.
How are you getting there?
Rooooaaaad triiiiip!
What hotel are you staying at?
The luxurious Omni!
Which days will you be attending?
All of 'em! I'll be in Pittsburgh from Tuesday to Monday.
Who will you be with?
You!
What is your main purpose for attending?
It's my chance to see many of my closest friends all at once, as well as get my unadulterated furfag on for a week straight.
Can I talk to you?
NO SHUT UP GO AWAY
Yeah, of course! I'm not shy at all. Come say hi. :D
Can I take pictures with you?
Yeah, why the hell not?
Can I touch/hug/cuddle you?
If you'll want to cuddle me, you'll have to successfully woo me first.
I'm not afraid of physical contact, but you should know what's acceptable; just don't randomly scritch me, alright? Some guy did that a couple of years ago, and it really creeped me out. But let's exchange handshakes, hugs, and brofists, for sure. :D
Oh, also, if you know how to dance, let's totally do that! If you know how to rumba or cha-cha-cha, that'd be especially awesome.
Can I hang out with you?
If you shower regularly, then yes!
Do you go to parties?
This whole thing is one big party!
Do you fursuit/costume?
'Fraid not. I don't have a fursuit.
What is the best way to reach you?
Psychic mind link. I'm not sure if I'll have a working phone while I'm down there.
Anything else?
I am so stoked for AC! I've been looking forward to it since AC. I've got friends coming in from all over the world. Oh man oh man oh man, it's gonna be awesome! \>W</
Back, Sorta!
General | Posted 13 years agoI'm back in civilization, sorta! I'm still on base, but at least there's, like, electricity and running water and stuff. That wasn't the longest I've gone without a shower while on duty, but I swear it was the filthiest. I once, as a kid, covered myself entirely in mud after jumping in a mud pit, and I still didn't feel as dirty then as I did by the end of this exercise. I ended up taking a shower for over an hour yesterday, and I still couldn't get all of the cam paint off of my face. I had painted a Punisher-esque skull onto my face, and that left a ring of black paint around my eyes that made me look like a glam rocker, haha.
The exercise wasn't that bad, though. I've certainly been through a lot worse. Acting as light infantry while wearing gear that basically turned it into an elaborate and expensive game of laser tag, my company participated in three raids, and got ambushed once, and I lived through all of them. Pretty sure I scored a couple of kills too, but with a combination of lasers and blanks, it's hard to tell sometimes. The battles are all pretty awesome, especially in the chaotic urban environment, but the build-up to it sure is long, tedious, and difficult.
Oh, and I also got my first taste of the shotgun, and learned how to breach a door with it. That was neat.
I'll be cut loose from this place and back in my home town by the weekend. Looking forward to finishing some artwork and getting back to work on my house. Hope you've all been well!
The exercise wasn't that bad, though. I've certainly been through a lot worse. Acting as light infantry while wearing gear that basically turned it into an elaborate and expensive game of laser tag, my company participated in three raids, and got ambushed once, and I lived through all of them. Pretty sure I scored a couple of kills too, but with a combination of lasers and blanks, it's hard to tell sometimes. The battles are all pretty awesome, especially in the chaotic urban environment, but the build-up to it sure is long, tedious, and difficult.
Oh, and I also got my first taste of the shotgun, and learned how to breach a door with it. That was neat.
I'll be cut loose from this place and back in my home town by the weekend. Looking forward to finishing some artwork and getting back to work on my house. Hope you've all been well!
Going AFK for a Bit
General | Posted 13 years agoI'm heading out to the field for a while again. I might be off-the-grid for a few weeks. Not really sure what I'll be doing, exactly -- probably just "shoot this, patrol here, raid there" standard fare -- and I'm also not sure of the exact date I'll be coming home, so I'm just grabbing my gear and winging it.
See you all eventually!
See you all eventually!
On Flirting
General | Posted 13 years agoI got my first piece of hate mail on Tumblr. I guess that means I'm becoming Tumblr-popular! In it, I was accused of, amongst things, clumsily hitting on people. I'm pretty sure I know who sent that, but it's not important. What is important is clarifying my behavior, because if one person got that impression, others might as well.
If you're my friend, chances are I've made a pass at you at some point. I hit on people for fun all of the time. Rarely am I serious about it. I’m not one of those “nice guys” who tries to just flatter or be kind to people with the hopes they’ll sometime, eventually, date me. I was kinda like that as a teenager, when I lacked self-confidence, but now as an adult, I’m not afraid to actually ask someone out. Subtlety doesn’t work. I’ve only had a genuine affection for a handful of people over the past several years, but when I have, I’ve been upfront about it. Sometimes it works out, and that’s great; and sometimes I get shot down, which is fine too—plenty of fish, and all that. But please don’t mistake my intentions. If you see me overtly flirting, it’s probably for just for lighthearted fun; and if I sincerely compliment someone, as crazy as it sounds, it might actually just be a genuine compliment—nothing more.
I think that hate mail came from a friend of a friend. A day or two, I left a compliment on my buddy's photo on Facebook, saying that she looked great. Why? 'Cause I really thought she looked good with her new hairstyle. But soon after, that thing arrives in my inbox. Just 'cause I say someone looks good doesn't mean I'm trying to get into their pants. Maybe Anon's of a different opinion, but I'm pretty sure people can simply be friends without the intention of screwing one-another. But maybe Anon's also just had a consistently terrible experience with douchebag men.
That brings me to my next point: the puzzling mentioning of me putting on a "gentleman act." I didn't think my casual swearing, frequent use of the words "dude" and "dudette," playful narcissism, and FUCK YEAH hot-blooded enthusiasm for my hobbies is what qualifies as being a pretentious gentleman. But hey, I could be wrong! Perhaps Anon was referring to my refusal to kiss and tell, 'cause, y'know, gentlemen don't do that. But that's no act. If you have a problem with me treating my lovers with respect, or think it's all some show, then your cynicism is pretty saddening.
But that's a little tangential. The main thing I wanted to do was clarify that, yes, I am outgoing enough to compliment others on any number of things, including their appearances; and yes, I do playfully flirt with a lot of people as well; but that doesn't necessarily mean I want to bang them. If I like like you, you'll know it.
If you're my friend, chances are I've made a pass at you at some point. I hit on people for fun all of the time. Rarely am I serious about it. I’m not one of those “nice guys” who tries to just flatter or be kind to people with the hopes they’ll sometime, eventually, date me. I was kinda like that as a teenager, when I lacked self-confidence, but now as an adult, I’m not afraid to actually ask someone out. Subtlety doesn’t work. I’ve only had a genuine affection for a handful of people over the past several years, but when I have, I’ve been upfront about it. Sometimes it works out, and that’s great; and sometimes I get shot down, which is fine too—plenty of fish, and all that. But please don’t mistake my intentions. If you see me overtly flirting, it’s probably for just for lighthearted fun; and if I sincerely compliment someone, as crazy as it sounds, it might actually just be a genuine compliment—nothing more.
I think that hate mail came from a friend of a friend. A day or two, I left a compliment on my buddy's photo on Facebook, saying that she looked great. Why? 'Cause I really thought she looked good with her new hairstyle. But soon after, that thing arrives in my inbox. Just 'cause I say someone looks good doesn't mean I'm trying to get into their pants. Maybe Anon's of a different opinion, but I'm pretty sure people can simply be friends without the intention of screwing one-another. But maybe Anon's also just had a consistently terrible experience with douchebag men.
That brings me to my next point: the puzzling mentioning of me putting on a "gentleman act." I didn't think my casual swearing, frequent use of the words "dude" and "dudette," playful narcissism, and FUCK YEAH hot-blooded enthusiasm for my hobbies is what qualifies as being a pretentious gentleman. But hey, I could be wrong! Perhaps Anon was referring to my refusal to kiss and tell, 'cause, y'know, gentlemen don't do that. But that's no act. If you have a problem with me treating my lovers with respect, or think it's all some show, then your cynicism is pretty saddening.
But that's a little tangential. The main thing I wanted to do was clarify that, yes, I am outgoing enough to compliment others on any number of things, including their appearances; and yes, I do playfully flirt with a lot of people as well; but that doesn't necessarily mean I want to bang them. If I like like you, you'll know it.
Retail: The New Bitchin' CHICAGO¤lollie Album! ♪
General | Posted 13 years agoMy good friend and vulpine extraordinaire, chicago-lollie, just released his new old album, Retail! Retail takes the fast-paced, glitzy world of customer service and delivers it to you in catchy-as-hell house form!
But wait! There's more! Check out the promotional trailer, narrated by none other than my other good friend and corvus magnifique, corbinbusker!
Give this thing a listen from Bandcamp, and if it's up your alley, download it! Chicago can use all the cashbux he can get, to emigrate to a more exciting continent (specifically one where Corbin and I both live).
chicago-lollie, just released his new old album, Retail! Retail takes the fast-paced, glitzy world of customer service and delivers it to you in catchy-as-hell house form!But wait! There's more! Check out the promotional trailer, narrated by none other than my other good friend and corvus magnifique,
corbinbusker!https://youtu.be/4xw9_w-yBUwGive this thing a listen from Bandcamp, and if it's up your alley, download it! Chicago can use all the cashbux he can get, to emigrate to a more exciting continent (specifically one where Corbin and I both live).
End of Course and the Hockey Season
General | Posted 13 years agoI beat my support weapons course! That means I'm now a qualified small arms coach, and I'm corporal qualified. I think that means I can potentially be promoted any time now, although I don't anticipate it until summer. Man, I can't wait to snag that promotion and pay raise.
I also just watched the final Jets game of the season. I've kept up with the Winnipeg Jets on a regular basis since they returned to Winnipeg. I was only a little kid when we lost our team, and with nobody to root for, I lost interest in the NHL. It's amazing how their presence sparked so much energy in the city and beyond. Winnipeg's MTS Centre is the loudest arena in the league, easily, and has had every single game of the season completely sold out. Not only that, the tickets were in such high demand, Jets fans would travel to other neighbouring cities to pour into their arenas during away games. I recall a Flames vs Jets game where the crowd in Calgary was cheering for Winnipeg, "Go, Jets, go!" The fact that our fans are so numerous and so feverish that they can overtake other arenas is just an amazing spectacle.
It's too bad the Jets didn't make the play-offs. They're not the best team, but it's always more interesting to root for the underdog. Regardless, I'm glad they came back and I'm looking forward to next season.
I also just watched the final Jets game of the season. I've kept up with the Winnipeg Jets on a regular basis since they returned to Winnipeg. I was only a little kid when we lost our team, and with nobody to root for, I lost interest in the NHL. It's amazing how their presence sparked so much energy in the city and beyond. Winnipeg's MTS Centre is the loudest arena in the league, easily, and has had every single game of the season completely sold out. Not only that, the tickets were in such high demand, Jets fans would travel to other neighbouring cities to pour into their arenas during away games. I recall a Flames vs Jets game where the crowd in Calgary was cheering for Winnipeg, "Go, Jets, go!" The fact that our fans are so numerous and so feverish that they can overtake other arenas is just an amazing spectacle.
It's too bad the Jets didn't make the play-offs. They're not the best team, but it's always more interesting to root for the underdog. Regardless, I'm glad they came back and I'm looking forward to next season.
Sexual Trophies
General | Posted 13 years agoWhile I was waiting for my pistol handling test at work, a couple of the other dudes were sitting on a computer, looking at Failblog pictures. One of ‘em stumbled on this picture picture of a guy who got ↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A SELECT START tattooed onto his back. They were looking at it like it was some foreign language, but I pointed out, “Oh, it’s the Konami code!”
“The what?”
“The Konami code,” I elaborated. “The video game company, Konami, made the game Contra. If you put that code in at the beginning, it gives you thirty extra lives. It also works in some of their other games.”
“Wow. The fact that you know that—”
“Every gamer knows that,” I interrupted.
They joked, “You need to get laid.”
“I’ve already been laid,” I facetiously replied.
“More than once! It’s like a Tylenol: the effects wear off.” We all laughed again. I like joking with these guys, but this is where it went overboard. One of the guys became way too inquisitive about just who I’ve been with. He loaded Facebook, and douchebaggishly said, “Give me a name, bro. I want to see.”
Um, how about hell no?
A bit annoyed, I asked, “How would you even know if I were telling the truth or not? What’s to stop me from listing fake names?”
“Oh, I’ll know.”
So let me get this straight: you’re gonna judge the veracity of my story based on how in-my-league these people seem at a glance? Yeah, how about you just fuck miles off instead.
This is why my sig-op friend thinks more of me than the stereotypical infantryman.
Just because I don’t boast about my sex life doesn’t mean I don’t have one! I don’t treat others like they’re goals to be conquered in bed, and I don’t determine the worth of an individual on appearance alone. The people with whom I’ve become intimate care about me, and I care about them. My relationships actually mean something to me beyond the hollow act of getting my rocks off. My ego is not so small and fragile that I feel the need exploit the privileges I’ve gotten by parading my exes and my friends-with-benefits like trophies in front of a bunch of shallow, bigoted fucks.
And with that, I left to pass my weapons handling test.
“The what?”
“The Konami code,” I elaborated. “The video game company, Konami, made the game Contra. If you put that code in at the beginning, it gives you thirty extra lives. It also works in some of their other games.”
“Wow. The fact that you know that—”
“Every gamer knows that,” I interrupted.
They joked, “You need to get laid.”
“I’ve already been laid,” I facetiously replied.
“More than once! It’s like a Tylenol: the effects wear off.” We all laughed again. I like joking with these guys, but this is where it went overboard. One of the guys became way too inquisitive about just who I’ve been with. He loaded Facebook, and douchebaggishly said, “Give me a name, bro. I want to see.”
Um, how about hell no?
A bit annoyed, I asked, “How would you even know if I were telling the truth or not? What’s to stop me from listing fake names?”
“Oh, I’ll know.”
So let me get this straight: you’re gonna judge the veracity of my story based on how in-my-league these people seem at a glance? Yeah, how about you just fuck miles off instead.
This is why my sig-op friend thinks more of me than the stereotypical infantryman.
Just because I don’t boast about my sex life doesn’t mean I don’t have one! I don’t treat others like they’re goals to be conquered in bed, and I don’t determine the worth of an individual on appearance alone. The people with whom I’ve become intimate care about me, and I care about them. My relationships actually mean something to me beyond the hollow act of getting my rocks off. My ego is not so small and fragile that I feel the need exploit the privileges I’ve gotten by parading my exes and my friends-with-benefits like trophies in front of a bunch of shallow, bigoted fucks.
And with that, I left to pass my weapons handling test.
My Job Has Its Perks
General | Posted 13 years agoI know a lot of people who are hobbyist shooters. They buy their guns and pay for their own ammo, and each shot fired is money out of their wallets. I, and twenty-two other soldiers from my unit, on the other hand, went out for a training shoot over the weekend, where everything was provided for us. And man, was it provided. We put sixty-six-thousand rounds down range, all full-auto! It was awesome! Our rates of fire were so crazy, our machine gun barrels barely got time to cool off. There were times where we'd switch one barrel off, only to replace it with a second still-smoking barrel from earlier. I dug a pit under my gun's tripod, about two feet deep, and it easily overflowed with brass and links.
Also, I've proven that I'm pretty adept with the gun and the C2 sight. I feel very confident with the sight, and can quickly lay on targets. Apparently command was impressed that I was getting so many first-round hits when sighting new targets, up to a kilometre in distance. "So I hear you're a killer!" my warrant officer said to me, haha. It feels pretty good to get that sort of recognition.
So not only did we get to fire a ludicrous number of rounds with guns you can't legally own civie-side, we got paid for it. My job can be pretty brutal sometimes, but it also has its perks!
Also, I've proven that I'm pretty adept with the gun and the C2 sight. I feel very confident with the sight, and can quickly lay on targets. Apparently command was impressed that I was getting so many first-round hits when sighting new targets, up to a kilometre in distance. "So I hear you're a killer!" my warrant officer said to me, haha. It feels pretty good to get that sort of recognition.
So not only did we get to fire a ludicrous number of rounds with guns you can't legally own civie-side, we got paid for it. My job can be pretty brutal sometimes, but it also has its perks!
I'm Participating in a Charity Auction
General | Posted 14 years agoIn the spirit of kindness, I'm tossing in my talents for a charity auction.
sillyserpentine very recently lost her husband, 
ponybird. Many of their friends are banding together to raise money for transportation and funeral costs.
http://www.furaffinity.net/view/7592005/
In addition to what the other artists are offering, I'll give a coloured character portrait to whoever wins that auction, if it breaks the $100 threshold. And of course, all of my digital is made in a resolution high enough to be printed on at least a letterhead-size paper.
Not only that, an anonymous donor is going to match the bids of that auction. So that's pretty rad.
I believe so highly in romance and love; to see a woman be widowed at such a young age is heartbreaking. So, I want to do what I can to help.
There are other people's efforts listed at the bottom of that page too.
sillyserpentine very recently lost her husband, 
ponybird. Many of their friends are banding together to raise money for transportation and funeral costs.http://www.furaffinity.net/view/7592005/
In addition to what the other artists are offering, I'll give a coloured character portrait to whoever wins that auction, if it breaks the $100 threshold. And of course, all of my digital is made in a resolution high enough to be printed on at least a letterhead-size paper.
Not only that, an anonymous donor is going to match the bids of that auction. So that's pretty rad.
I believe so highly in romance and love; to see a woman be widowed at such a young age is heartbreaking. So, I want to do what I can to help.
There are other people's efforts listed at the bottom of that page too.
Re-coming Out
General | Posted 14 years agoWay back in January, I re-came out to my brother. See, I came out to him when I was eighteen, but never really talked about it again until just recently. It was after spending a night at a guy's house. I was driving my brother home from his girlfriend's place when he asked whose house I'd been at.
"I've, uh, been seeing another young man lately."
"...Oh."
And that was it. "Oh" is barely a word, but that's all I got out of him. And again, we didn't speak about it for a while. I only brought it up again last week. I don't even remember how I segued into the topic, but I mentioned how he was obviously off-put by it.
My brother told me he was surprised that I'm still bisexual. He thought, back then, my sexuality was merely circumstantial because I had a prospective long-distance male partner. He assumed after that ended, I changed to straight—basically subscribing to the same "it's a phase" bullshit brush-off that my mom used on me when I was nineteen.
I insisted that I am indeed bisexual. He's straight, but if he went a while without dating another girl, I wouldn't presume him to suddenly be asexual. Why should people assume that my sexual orientation is some fluctuating or illegitimate identity? I am bi. I like men and I like women! Just because I get into a monogamous relationship with a person of one gender does not mean I lose my appreciation for the other. Same with being single for a long time.
And this is why I never really talked to him about this sort of stuff. The vibes I got were right. He's not comfortable with it. He insists that he doesn't mind gay people (and I guess I'm supposed I'm covered by that umbrella term), but he made mention how he'd find it weird to see two dudes kiss. It's not like you have to find it hot, c'mon, but at least tolerate it. How can I comfortably discuss my love life with him?
He and I also got into a debate about his use of the term "gay" as an insult; like, "oh that's so gay." He was playing TF2 at the time, and I overheard him say it on the mic several times. He insisted it wasn't a big deal, which is a stance I once held too, but I've changed my opinion since. He said it was like on that episode of South Park, "The F Word," where they reclaimed the term "fag" to describe obnoxious bikers, as it's been an ever-evolving word with many different definitions. I asserted that it was not the same. "Gay" is a widely-accepted term to describe homosexuality, whereas "fag" is an insulting slur. When people ask your sexual orientation, you don't reply, "faggot."
He tried to dismiss my stance as, "You're only saying that because you've been hanging out with gay people lately." No. The reason I've taken a dislike to the term "gay" as an insult is because it's synonymous with homosexuality, and thus using it in a negative connotation creates a subtle association that gay = bad. Queer people still face a lot of prejudice in society; eliminating a childish insult like that ought to do a small part in creating a more accepting mindset in people.
Bi people get their own challenges that come with biphobia, but we also get all the fun of homophobia. You think if I'm out, holding hands with another guy, some homophobe is going to take the time to inquire about whether I'm gay or bi before passing judgement on me? Hell no. I'm gonna be presumed to be gay, or just anything but straight, and get all the hate that comes with it. This crap directly affects my ability to just be myself, without guilt, shame, or ridicule.
I haven't felt like I can openly be myself. There is my cousin who I've opened up to, as of recently, but she's hardly around; and by her TMI inquiries, I kind of get the vibe that she thinks of it as something of a novelty. I admitted to my brother, for reasons like that, and without anyone in the family to talk to about my sexuality, I've felt very alone for a long time.
I don't want to be like that anymore. I want out. I want to be myself, without guilt, without shame, and without ridicule.
"I've, uh, been seeing another young man lately."
"...Oh."
And that was it. "Oh" is barely a word, but that's all I got out of him. And again, we didn't speak about it for a while. I only brought it up again last week. I don't even remember how I segued into the topic, but I mentioned how he was obviously off-put by it.
My brother told me he was surprised that I'm still bisexual. He thought, back then, my sexuality was merely circumstantial because I had a prospective long-distance male partner. He assumed after that ended, I changed to straight—basically subscribing to the same "it's a phase" bullshit brush-off that my mom used on me when I was nineteen.
I insisted that I am indeed bisexual. He's straight, but if he went a while without dating another girl, I wouldn't presume him to suddenly be asexual. Why should people assume that my sexual orientation is some fluctuating or illegitimate identity? I am bi. I like men and I like women! Just because I get into a monogamous relationship with a person of one gender does not mean I lose my appreciation for the other. Same with being single for a long time.
And this is why I never really talked to him about this sort of stuff. The vibes I got were right. He's not comfortable with it. He insists that he doesn't mind gay people (and I guess I'm supposed I'm covered by that umbrella term), but he made mention how he'd find it weird to see two dudes kiss. It's not like you have to find it hot, c'mon, but at least tolerate it. How can I comfortably discuss my love life with him?
He and I also got into a debate about his use of the term "gay" as an insult; like, "oh that's so gay." He was playing TF2 at the time, and I overheard him say it on the mic several times. He insisted it wasn't a big deal, which is a stance I once held too, but I've changed my opinion since. He said it was like on that episode of South Park, "The F Word," where they reclaimed the term "fag" to describe obnoxious bikers, as it's been an ever-evolving word with many different definitions. I asserted that it was not the same. "Gay" is a widely-accepted term to describe homosexuality, whereas "fag" is an insulting slur. When people ask your sexual orientation, you don't reply, "faggot."
He tried to dismiss my stance as, "You're only saying that because you've been hanging out with gay people lately." No. The reason I've taken a dislike to the term "gay" as an insult is because it's synonymous with homosexuality, and thus using it in a negative connotation creates a subtle association that gay = bad. Queer people still face a lot of prejudice in society; eliminating a childish insult like that ought to do a small part in creating a more accepting mindset in people.
Bi people get their own challenges that come with biphobia, but we also get all the fun of homophobia. You think if I'm out, holding hands with another guy, some homophobe is going to take the time to inquire about whether I'm gay or bi before passing judgement on me? Hell no. I'm gonna be presumed to be gay, or just anything but straight, and get all the hate that comes with it. This crap directly affects my ability to just be myself, without guilt, shame, or ridicule.
I haven't felt like I can openly be myself. There is my cousin who I've opened up to, as of recently, but she's hardly around; and by her TMI inquiries, I kind of get the vibe that she thinks of it as something of a novelty. I admitted to my brother, for reasons like that, and without anyone in the family to talk to about my sexuality, I've felt very alone for a long time.
I don't want to be like that anymore. I want out. I want to be myself, without guilt, without shame, and without ridicule.
Fat Oppression, Thin Privilege?
General | Posted 14 years agoI'm partially just cross-posting this here to bump that old journal off my page, haha. But I don't post on here that much, and when I do, it's typically lighthearted, or to let you know that I'm going AFK on some deployment. My most-personal experiences are reserved for my LJ, but maybe I should share some of my thoughts here as well, to let people know I have more opinions and emotions than just "that's awesome!"
Neive reblogged an article on her Tumblr, about the shitty judgement that fat people face every day: Fat Oppression, Thin Privilege, and Why My Fat Ass is Leaving No Room for You in the Conversation.
I read it. It brings up a lot of good points about how fat people are shamed on a constant basis. However, when it starts taking jabs at skinny people, that's when I take issue. I recommend reading the original post for the context, but my experiences with being underweight pretty much stand on their own:
"I very much agree with a lot of this; people need to relax their standards with what makes an ideal body type. I hate the “fuck you and your thin privilege” attitude, though.
My experience with being underweight has been worse than “someone once told me to eat a sandwich.” I was teased about it constantly as I grew up. “Stick,” “bones,” “anorexic” — words I heard constantly. Even now, as a grown man, in the last week, I was described as “emaciated” by a friend, and a coworker told me to go “eat a steak” — again. And one of the sergeants at the base will, without fail, make some comment about how I look like I’ve “been working out” every time he sees me. A master corporal told me that I didn't have enough body fat and that I was "going to die" when I deployed to the Arctic. When I was visiting a friend overseas, she had another houseguest, some tremendous idiot, who, upon seeing me shirtless, exclaimed overt disgust. And when I met some of my online friends for the first time at a con, two of them, separately, looked me over and commented about how I’m skinny. Even one of my lovers once commented on it. That’s why I never tell people how much I weigh anymore; they always make a big deal. It’s left me with self-esteem issues that I’ve worked hard to overcome, but I still will opt to wear long sleeves in all but the most unbearably-hot weather, to mask my thin wrists. And when I’m wearing little more than shorts while swimming, or working out, I feel like I’m being judged constantly. I hate it.
As for clothes-shopping, I have trouble finding a good fit too. I remember that I once got jeans as a gift; they didn’t fit, so I took them to the store, a store that sells pretty much nothing but jeans, to exchange them. I couldn’t find anything in my waist and length. Off-the-rack dress shirts are the same, often fitting well in the collar, or the sleeve length, but not both. It’s why I get my shirts custom-made. My jacket selection, likewise, is pretty paltry. I ask that my family don’t buy me clothes anymore.
Oh, as for that improptu road trip thing, guess who, despite his height, is expected to sit in that stupidly-tiny middle seat in the back every time.
Fat people can always eat less and get more cardio, if they want to lose weight. I’ve wanted so badly to bulk up, but I can’t afford the ridiculous diet and supplements that an ectomorph needs. I’ll never change unless I can cram six meals each day down range. I wish it were just as simple as eating a sandwich.
I’m naturally skinny. I’m healthy, and I’m perfectly capable of performing my highly-physical job. But I’m still expected to be different, because my body, capable as it may be, still isn’t good enough.
You’ve absolutely had a tough go from society as a fat person. Just please don’t dismiss my experiences as trivial and “privileged” because you think you’ve had it worse."
So yeah. Being fat isn't fun, but being skinny isn't either.
Neive reblogged an article on her Tumblr, about the shitty judgement that fat people face every day: Fat Oppression, Thin Privilege, and Why My Fat Ass is Leaving No Room for You in the Conversation.I read it. It brings up a lot of good points about how fat people are shamed on a constant basis. However, when it starts taking jabs at skinny people, that's when I take issue. I recommend reading the original post for the context, but my experiences with being underweight pretty much stand on their own:
"I very much agree with a lot of this; people need to relax their standards with what makes an ideal body type. I hate the “fuck you and your thin privilege” attitude, though.
My experience with being underweight has been worse than “someone once told me to eat a sandwich.” I was teased about it constantly as I grew up. “Stick,” “bones,” “anorexic” — words I heard constantly. Even now, as a grown man, in the last week, I was described as “emaciated” by a friend, and a coworker told me to go “eat a steak” — again. And one of the sergeants at the base will, without fail, make some comment about how I look like I’ve “been working out” every time he sees me. A master corporal told me that I didn't have enough body fat and that I was "going to die" when I deployed to the Arctic. When I was visiting a friend overseas, she had another houseguest, some tremendous idiot, who, upon seeing me shirtless, exclaimed overt disgust. And when I met some of my online friends for the first time at a con, two of them, separately, looked me over and commented about how I’m skinny. Even one of my lovers once commented on it. That’s why I never tell people how much I weigh anymore; they always make a big deal. It’s left me with self-esteem issues that I’ve worked hard to overcome, but I still will opt to wear long sleeves in all but the most unbearably-hot weather, to mask my thin wrists. And when I’m wearing little more than shorts while swimming, or working out, I feel like I’m being judged constantly. I hate it.
As for clothes-shopping, I have trouble finding a good fit too. I remember that I once got jeans as a gift; they didn’t fit, so I took them to the store, a store that sells pretty much nothing but jeans, to exchange them. I couldn’t find anything in my waist and length. Off-the-rack dress shirts are the same, often fitting well in the collar, or the sleeve length, but not both. It’s why I get my shirts custom-made. My jacket selection, likewise, is pretty paltry. I ask that my family don’t buy me clothes anymore.
Oh, as for that improptu road trip thing, guess who, despite his height, is expected to sit in that stupidly-tiny middle seat in the back every time.
Fat people can always eat less and get more cardio, if they want to lose weight. I’ve wanted so badly to bulk up, but I can’t afford the ridiculous diet and supplements that an ectomorph needs. I’ll never change unless I can cram six meals each day down range. I wish it were just as simple as eating a sandwich.
I’m naturally skinny. I’m healthy, and I’m perfectly capable of performing my highly-physical job. But I’m still expected to be different, because my body, capable as it may be, still isn’t good enough.
You’ve absolutely had a tough go from society as a fat person. Just please don’t dismiss my experiences as trivial and “privileged” because you think you’ve had it worse."
So yeah. Being fat isn't fun, but being skinny isn't either.
I Beat the Arctic!
General | Posted 14 years agohttps://youtu.be/1Zmb9Vh8Ja0Music related. B3
That's right, I'm back! I just participated in the largest military exercise Canada's ever done north-of-sixty. I've still got all my fingers and toes, although my fingertips have frostnip, and I caught a cold. I never flipped my snowmobile, myself, although when I was riding shotgun on one, it got flipped twice. I also had my leg run over by a komatik. Both instances were in deep snow, though, so it wasn't that bad—I soldiered on.
The Northwest Territories have some very beautiful scenery. Being from the prairies, I'm not used to seeing mountains like that, nor the northern lights. It sucked at points, but I had some fun times too. We pushed to the 64th parallel, to a podunk named Gamèti, got to do some training with the Canadian Rangers, and roasted freshly-caught fish and caribou. It was my first time having caribou—wasn't bad, but could've used some seasoning. But after a week of a paltry diet of military rations and beef jerky, real food was such a treat! I think, by the end, we drove something ridiculous like 800 kilometres on those snowmobiles, all through ice roads and ditches.
I was so bagged by the end of it. I remember struggling to stay awake, while riding shotgun, on more than one occasion—though I never passed out while in the driver's seat (at least when we were moving). One particular day had us do a 13½ hour trip, with only 2 hours of sleep the night previous, and I was so sleepfucked by that point that I was hallucinating—like, I thought I saw a wall of snow at one point, a bunch of trees that weren't there, a snowboarder, haha... I was still conscious enough that I was trying to distinguish what was real and what wasn't, and I didn't quite score 100% on that.
But hey, I'm home now, safe and warm. Time to get back to drawing!
Going to the Arctic
General | Posted 14 years agoMilitary duty often takes me to places where I wouldn't go on my own, the latest being the Northwest Territories. I've been training for this all fall and winter (and arguably, by living in Winnipeg my whole life), and tomorrow, I'll be heading far north. I'll be gone for ten days.
I haven't been looking forward to ten days of cold and no-showers, but I have wanted to see more of Canada. I guess this is a good excuse to check the Northwest Territories off of the list. Operating as a dragoon, I'll be pushing far north, so that's some bragging rights. Not many people I know have been to the Arctic!
Despite the hardships I'll endure, it's something I gotta do. This is important for Canada. I can't be afraid of the cold.
I haven't been looking forward to ten days of cold and no-showers, but I have wanted to see more of Canada. I guess this is a good excuse to check the Northwest Territories off of the list. Operating as a dragoon, I'll be pushing far north, so that's some bragging rights. Not many people I know have been to the Arctic!
Despite the hardships I'll endure, it's something I gotta do. This is important for Canada. I can't be afraid of the cold.
Happy Valentines Day!
General | Posted 14 years agoHappy Valentines Day, you loveable balls of fluff and scales and feathers and whatever!
I happen to find myself single this day, but that's okay. In the spirit of this holiday, I've decided to show some love to someone really important in my life:
Me. ♥w♥
If you're feeling a little blue about being single, maybe this will brighten your day a bit, as it did for me! Whether you're single, one-half of a couple, or have some wild polyamorous thing going on, I hope you all have a lovely day!
I happen to find myself single this day, but that's okay. In the spirit of this holiday, I've decided to show some love to someone really important in my life:
Me. ♥w♥If you're feeling a little blue about being single, maybe this will brighten your day a bit, as it did for me! Whether you're single, one-half of a couple, or have some wild polyamorous thing going on, I hope you all have a lovely day!
Getting Stoked for AC
General | Posted 14 years agoIt's months away, but I'm already psyched! I actually pre-registered this year, so none of that on-site nonsense for me this time, and my hotel is booked. I love going on that annual furry pilgrimage, haha. I've got friends coming in for this who I haven't seen in five years, plus all the awesome people who I haven't seen since last summer. I am so stoked for this!
Who else is planning on attending this year?
Who else is planning on attending this year?
Contemplating Returning to School
General | Posted 14 years ago[Current Music|PinkiePieSwear - Art of the Dress (Always Stressed Remix)]
As of late, I've been considering returning to school. I feel I have the potential, as an artist, to be amazing, but I always fall short. I'm not totally uneducated, having gone to college for graphic design, but I've got such a distance to go. When I take a look at the drawings and paintings of some of my formally-educated friends, I feel like I'm missing out. That's why I'm thinking about studying fine art in university.
I'm not sure if it'd be worth the time and money. I'd have to work very hard to pay for it, accomplish my assignments, maintain my home, and still pursue my dreams of travel. And even after all that, I'm not certain that I'd get meaningful employment out of a fine arts degree—although, to be honest, I'm considering it much more for the love than the money.
After I get back from the field, I'm going to see if I can get a tour of the university's new school of art, to get a feel for the classes and the quality of the graduates.
It's a tough thing, considering one's future. I can basically do anything I want, but I'm not sure what it is I want to do. If I don't go back to school, what should I do with my time instead?
As of late, I've been considering returning to school. I feel I have the potential, as an artist, to be amazing, but I always fall short. I'm not totally uneducated, having gone to college for graphic design, but I've got such a distance to go. When I take a look at the drawings and paintings of some of my formally-educated friends, I feel like I'm missing out. That's why I'm thinking about studying fine art in university.
I'm not sure if it'd be worth the time and money. I'd have to work very hard to pay for it, accomplish my assignments, maintain my home, and still pursue my dreams of travel. And even after all that, I'm not certain that I'd get meaningful employment out of a fine arts degree—although, to be honest, I'm considering it much more for the love than the money.
After I get back from the field, I'm going to see if I can get a tour of the university's new school of art, to get a feel for the classes and the quality of the graduates.
It's a tough thing, considering one's future. I can basically do anything I want, but I'm not sure what it is I want to do. If I don't go back to school, what should I do with my time instead?
Awesome Christmas Time: Part Seven!
General | Posted 14 years agoDudes and dudettes, it's time for the final instalment of Awesome Christmas Time! This is the last Awesome Video Games Christmas special, "Once Upon a Christmas Star," as well as the end of the series. Grab a drink and get comfy, 'cause it's a long. heartwarming finale!
Welcome back to another holiday special! This time around, Ace and Chet go balls-out with the festivities! Chet's got a super feeling about this year's Christmas, while Ace makes a wish upon a star.
Today on Awesome Video Games, the boys are pumped up with Christmas cheer! Looking forward to one super present, Ace and Chet have compiled a list of the best of the best for the SNES. Stay tuned for "Ace and Chet's Top 100 Most Anticipated Games for the Super Nintendo!" Yeah! Meanwhile, Dad's in one intense worry to get the house ready for the big family get-together.
Looks like Dad's having a tough time preparing the place for the big family Christmas! Chet's brilliant plan fell short. Bogus! Also, the boys get a little visit from a familiar face: cousin Lester! And he's introducing some radical power to the boys: blast processing! Are Nintendo's days numbered?
Say it with me, man: Sega Genesis! Lester breaks down exactly why the Genesis does what Nintendon't! Just as Ace gets psyched for this new sixteen-bit contender, Lester leaves them a game that threatens to leaves the Mario bros in the dust!
Sega Genesis is awesome! In a throwback to their very first episode, Ace and Chet take a break from the festivities to show off Lester's new sweet sixteen-bit entertainment system!
Welcome to Green Hill Zone! It's just like the regular zone; the sky is blue, and the ground is always made of green. In a throwback to their very second episode, the boys bust the video game speed barrier wide open with Sonic the Hedgehog!
The festive spirit returns, along with Lester! Just as Ace is about to bust the video game speed barrier wide open, Lester takes his Genesis back. Bogus! Next, the boys decide to pen their letters to Santa! Chet's set on that Super Nintendo, but Ace is having second thoughts of Sega.
Dudes and dudettes, it's Christmas Eve! Chet is pumped up for a brand new sixteen-bit system—but Ace feels guilty that their gift won't be as super as Chet expects, and dreams of the terrible consequences. Did he ruin Christmas for his brother?
This time on Awesome Video Games, it's Christmas! Ace looks on with anxiety as Chet grabs the most console-shaped box under the tree. Will they have a super Christmas after all?
Dudes and dudettes, that's the end of Awesome Video Games, as well as my Awesome Christmas Time journals—because, well, it's Christmas! I found the moment where they unwrapped their gift to be absolutely heartwarming. Ace obviously loves his brother very much. :D
These journals haven't been getting many comments, but that's okay. I just wanted to bring on some cheer while sharing something I love. If these games, songs, or videos made even one person's holiday more festive, more nostalgic, or just more awesome, then it was worth the effort!
Merry Christmas!
Awesome Christmas Time: Part One! Part Two! Part Three! Part Four! Part Five! Part Six!
https://youtu.be/QNXTwlIhm5cWelcome back to another holiday special! This time around, Ace and Chet go balls-out with the festivities! Chet's got a super feeling about this year's Christmas, while Ace makes a wish upon a star.
https://youtu.be/WRcKKAF4s3kToday on Awesome Video Games, the boys are pumped up with Christmas cheer! Looking forward to one super present, Ace and Chet have compiled a list of the best of the best for the SNES. Stay tuned for "Ace and Chet's Top 100 Most Anticipated Games for the Super Nintendo!" Yeah! Meanwhile, Dad's in one intense worry to get the house ready for the big family get-together.
https://youtu.be/YNpocLOgfqULooks like Dad's having a tough time preparing the place for the big family Christmas! Chet's brilliant plan fell short. Bogus! Also, the boys get a little visit from a familiar face: cousin Lester! And he's introducing some radical power to the boys: blast processing! Are Nintendo's days numbered?
https://youtu.be/v9mTtW4O3XASay it with me, man: Sega Genesis! Lester breaks down exactly why the Genesis does what Nintendon't! Just as Ace gets psyched for this new sixteen-bit contender, Lester leaves them a game that threatens to leaves the Mario bros in the dust!
https://youtu.be/0KwtKDvxfzoSega Genesis is awesome! In a throwback to their very first episode, Ace and Chet take a break from the festivities to show off Lester's new sweet sixteen-bit entertainment system!
https://youtu.be/9u7lP8iwbToWelcome to Green Hill Zone! It's just like the regular zone; the sky is blue, and the ground is always made of green. In a throwback to their very second episode, the boys bust the video game speed barrier wide open with Sonic the Hedgehog!
https://youtu.be/5Ie6VhXP_NEThe festive spirit returns, along with Lester! Just as Ace is about to bust the video game speed barrier wide open, Lester takes his Genesis back. Bogus! Next, the boys decide to pen their letters to Santa! Chet's set on that Super Nintendo, but Ace is having second thoughts of Sega.
https://youtu.be/Jebk_igdnpADudes and dudettes, it's Christmas Eve! Chet is pumped up for a brand new sixteen-bit system—but Ace feels guilty that their gift won't be as super as Chet expects, and dreams of the terrible consequences. Did he ruin Christmas for his brother?
https://youtu.be/sYSw6vQMcGAThis time on Awesome Video Games, it's Christmas! Ace looks on with anxiety as Chet grabs the most console-shaped box under the tree. Will they have a super Christmas after all?
Dudes and dudettes, that's the end of Awesome Video Games, as well as my Awesome Christmas Time journals—because, well, it's Christmas! I found the moment where they unwrapped their gift to be absolutely heartwarming. Ace obviously loves his brother very much. :D
These journals haven't been getting many comments, but that's okay. I just wanted to bring on some cheer while sharing something I love. If these games, songs, or videos made even one person's holiday more festive, more nostalgic, or just more awesome, then it was worth the effort!
Merry Christmas!
Awesome Christmas Time: Part One! Part Two! Part Three! Part Four! Part Five! Part Six!
