(Decided to cross-post this from my other account, since really here is where it's more relevant

On August 19, I did something I've never done before in my entire life. And to say it was nerve-wracking isn't to exaggerate.

I decided to change my fursona.

More precisely, I decided that Windrunner, the wolf, wasn't really who I wanted to be so much anymore, and it was time to leave the forest and enter the plains as Reiver, the horse.

It was terrifying decision to make publicly, given that only a few of my friends even knew I had a horse character, but I was tired of stressing about what I felt was a change already in progress.

[Dramatic paws-turned-hooves for effect]

My horse fursona is only a few years old; my wolf side, as old as my presence on the Internet (FYI: 3 years versus 20.) My stallion self is very much my adult desires let loose in every way, whereas the lupine is mainly a beautiful, noble, yet tame, fursuiter.

Reiver was only ever meant to be a character that I could use as an outlet for my imagination in stories and art... But my imagination is vast and while I love my wolf self, as the equine my mind has felt like it's started to run free. Free of the past, in some ways, but also free to joke around or tease or play in ways I never would before. No longer coming across as tough predator, but not being necessarily passive prey either - enjoying the chase, as well as the (usually inevitable) outcome. In essence, just letting me have more fun in ways that matter to me.

I've had a number of people (who know me IRL) compliment me on my decision, saying they think I'll make a great horse. I'd like to think they are right. The wolf will always be a part of me; I will never forget what I was. But life has decided it's time to decide, and my mind and my heart have told me how to get there:

Take the terrifying, frightening prospect of change and turn it to your advantage. Instead of staying forever in the dark, hiding from the hunters, use the fear to try and outrun them to a glorious future. Succeed or fail, I gain nothing by not trying.

My hooves are already pounding across the plains of the present.

Join me or chase me - I'll be a stallion standing tall either way.

It was the best of years, it was the worst of years. A little cliché, perhaps, but still fitting.


As much as I want to, I can't hate this year that has just passed. It was filled with hardships and heartaches – and yes, seemingly moreso than other years.

We lost a lot of good artists of all calibers. Carrie Fisher hurt the most I think, but just because of my love for Star Wars, but there are plenty that have earned well-deserved tributes this year in passing.

The madness that has spread across the net, encircling those of us in the middle, hurts to think about. Oh, how I wish I could find a solution. I wish the world could find a greater understanding, and not just 'from where I'm standing.' All I can do is being genuine with those I deal with and call friend, and do my best to try and see all sides of the story.

I had to undergo gum surgery because I don't floss enough, despite knowing that I should. Eating soft foods and soup for a week wasn't easy. Puréed chili is gross. But I have no one to blame but myself, and to avoid having to do this again. O.O

My love had some rough times and I did whatever I could to help her, though at times it was taxing on both of us. But we made it through, together.


And yet, why should I only look back on this year with sadness and frustration?

This year, I married the woman that I love more than anybody else and we did it in our own unique, weird-yet-still-reserved style. Everyone who helped us or was involved proved invaluable, and I do not have enough words to praise them all. Despite having torrential downpours of rain, everything else was as bright as a summer's day and we came away, exhausted but exhilarated.

I managed to accomplish creative things I never thought I could. Building a photo booth wall from scratch with only my thoughts and grit to make it happen was a lot of work – but it did work, and amazingly so. It was finished the day we needed it, but that was enough, and lots of people had fun with it. I've also been writing more in the past year than I have in the past years, and still have more to come.

I witnessed the reunification of my wife with her brother, and gained an awesome new brother-in-law in the process. A family once fractured is mending itself, and all are better for it. What wasn't even considered a possibility one week before my marriage has become a reality. That shows just how the future still has plenty of unknowns to throw at us - some good, some bad - and that the adventure is just getting started.


I started this with a cliché, and so I choose to end it the same: it is always darkest before the dawn.

2016 was very dark in many ways, it is true; although I admit few of them touched me directly, they did impact many of my friends.

But we must realize that the dawn doesn't just appear in a flash. It creeps up and slowly grows until we finally see the sun again. Feel its warmth, like a fresh spring day.

We will lose much in 2017 – don’t doubt it.

Many more 'big names' will pass away, and we likely won't see a lot of them coming until it's too late.

The world's stage is set to be changed in ways I can scarcely imagine or predict.

But I am forever an optimist – I will never lose hope. And though much will change in this year, I will never lose myself. And the ring on my finger will always remind me that someone else is there by my side, as I am by hers, to help when things are too hard to handle alone.

I feel more alive in the last days of this burning year than I have in quite a while. More ready to take on everything. More ready to try new things and rediscover old favorites.

Are you with me?

RIP  horlequism

For those of you who knew him (and of his recent passing in mid-December), a memorial page has been set up. If you wish to leave your condolences, please go to:

http://www.brownleefuneralhomes.com.....l/obituary.php

(I'm disabling comments on this, since I just wish to spread the word more than engage in discussion over it.)

Well, now that things are starting to settle in around here, it looks like Biakko and I will be able to make it to another con this year!!! :) We are currently planning to hit up Furpocalypse in October/November. I attended Furfright once and did enjoy it, although that was a 3-con year for me and I never managed to make it back again. It will be fun to attend it's new format. Plus, having only attended FE this year, we're both jonesing for a furcon LOL.

We've pre-reg'd, so that's all good... now we just need to find lodgings! I know the overflow hotels still have rooms available; HOWEVER if you do happen to be staying at the main one (and we've met) and happen to have space for a couple of suiters - please let me know!

Thank you, and see all who are going there in a few months!

 blitz9 is organizing this year's Furry Canada Day walk. I don't know if I will be attending (likely not due to certain events happening at that time), but I did want to encourage any locals or anyone visiting Ottawa to attend. Hopefully, if I don't make it this year, I'll be able to in 2016. :)

Details on the walk - http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/6803892/
Picture of the break area - http://www.furaffinity.net/view/16804418/

I arrived home from FE 2015 yesterday, and yeah... that was what I needed. :)

Hanging out with friends... awesome noms...

Being given a chance to be a part of the reveal for next year's con...

Enjoying the retro games... the good company... the atmosphere...

Some of the dancers were just amazing this year, and I can't imagine how difficult it must have been to select a winner.

Bringing along a friend who wasn't overly furry before, but is not-so-slowly being corrupted. And knowing that she had a good time as well...

I didn't dance quite as much, nor suit quite as much, as I would have liked. But what I did get in, I got in as quality time so that made up for it. :)

Dead Dog Ending was Dead Dog perfect. ^.^ Right music, right crowd, right songs, right time. Right now. :)

It wasn't a perfect weekend, but it was close enough on many levels. Thanks to all who helped make it happen.

Until next time.... EXCELSIOR!!!

Am I going? Yep.

How long will I be there? The entire convention, plus a few extra hours before and after.

Excited? Hell ya.

Going to fursuit? You bet'cher tail I will!

Going to see friends you haven't seen in a year? Yes, it's been too long.

Did you copy this from a meme? No, I just decided to make up my own list because, well, what's stopping me?

Keeping this short, sweet, and to the point - 6 days until I leave! (And only 2 more working days before my vacation ^.^)

Hope everyone has a safe trip to the con, and I'll see you around.

Ok, this is an odd journal, even for me since I don't generally post a lot about my personal life here. But really, I don't have that many options for finding this guy/girl so hopefully this helps.

I work for MBNA Canada Bank here in Ottawa. It being a bank means that it's a little more conservative on the side of things (not always, but for the most part yes.) As such, I don't tend to share a lot of my furry interests with my co-workers. There's only 2 times when anyone who works in that building has really seen anything about that:

1) a couple of years ago, I was drafted into helping with a short video as part of a department meeting; they wanted me to wear a cheap Hallowe'en wolf mask. I suggested (and brought in) something better. Surprisingly, there weren't that many questions about it - which was fine, IMO :)

2) One of the people who works in the Tim Horton's on-site happened to run into me and a group of furries on Canada Day a couple of years ago as we were walking around downtown - as a result, she's seen me in my partial suit as well, but was cool with it.

It is this latter woman who brings me to the point of this journal. I know of only one other fur who works at MBNA, and we have met :) But after this past Hallowe'en, 2014, I now suspect there's another suiter amongst us. The lady from Timmies noticed someone walk by in the hall wearing a wolf head, and she thought it was me. When I talked to her a few days later, I said that no, I hadn't worn my costume to work that day... She was relieved, since she was going to call out to me and it wouldn't have been me ;)

But now I'm damn curious! And unfortunately, I don't really have any easy way of finding out. Ottawa's furry community is always pretty fractured at best; while a lot of folks know where to find me, I'm not everywhere. Hence why I reach out like this... Do you know another fursuiter who works for TD-MBNA? Are you one? If so, please get in touch with me, as I would love to meet you (if I haven't already lol.)

Ok, this is an odd journal, even for me since I don't generally post a lot about my personal life here. But really, I don't have that many options for finding this guy/girl so hopefully this helps.

I work for MBNA Canada Bank here in Ottawa. It being a bank means that it's a little more conservative on the side of things (not always, but for the most part yes.) As such, I don't tend to share a lot of my furry interests with my co-workers. There's only 2 times when anyone who works in that building has really seen anything about that:

1) a couple of years ago, I was drafted into helping with a short video as part of a department meeting; they wanted me to wear a cheap Hallowe'en wolf mask. I suggested (and brought in) something better. Surprisingly, there weren't that many questions about it - which was fine, IMO :)

2) One of the people who works in the Tim Horton's on-site happened to run into me and a group of furries on Canada Day a couple of years ago as we were walking around downtown - as a result, she's seen me in my partial suit as well, but was cool with it.

It is this latter woman who brings me to the point of this journal. I know of only one other fur who works at MBNA, and we have met :) But after this past Hallowe'en, 2014, I now suspect there's another suiter amongst us. The lady from Timmies noticed someone walk by in the hall wearing a wolf head, and she thought it was me. When I talked to her a few days later, I said that no, I hadn't worn my costume to work that day... She was relieved, since she was going to call out to me and it wouldn't have been me ;)

But now I'm damn curious! And unfortunately, I don't really have any easy way of finding out. Ottawa's furry community is always pretty fractured at best; while a lot of folks know where to find me, I'm not everywhere. Hence why I reach out like this... Do you know another fursuiter who works for TD-MBNA? Are you one? If so, please get in touch with me, as I would love to meet you (if I haven't already lol.)

So here’s a funny story about life's little coincidences leading up to bigger things.

At work I have a nickname: Reever. This is a play on my actual last name, Reeve. I’ve been called this for years (and having worked there for over a decade, that is quite a while.) I don’t know how I got it, although I do know it was a co-worker of mine who first started using it. The name got around to a few people, but is generally only used by those I work closely with.

A while ago, I was talking with my father and mentioned this to him.

“You know what a reever is, don’t you?”

“No. I know that a 'reeve' is like a bookkeeper; what’s a reever?”

“A horse thief.”

As you might imagine, my furry ears perked up when I heard this. While my personal fursona will always be a wolf (for reasons only a few know,) I had been considering the idea of having other ‘characters’ associated with myself. As a writer, it made sense. I couldn’t do another canine; too much of a conflict with who I am. I am surrounded by felines – why would I want one of those??? Bears don’t hold much interest to me. Beyond that, though, I was more open to considering other species – and equines definitely were catching my eye. When I heard "horse thief," I instantly had an image of a pony in the shadows, cloaked a la Garrett or a rogue-errant.

After doing some research, I’ve learned a few things, which helped me refine this concept. Reivers/reavers (alternate spelling) were more traditionally raiders and plunderers on horseback – in other words, not a ‘stealer of horses’ but more a ‘thief on horseback.’ They were fierce cavalry warriors in the British Isles, but generally would also ‘take what wasn’t nailed down’ including livestock and/or prisoners. They weren’t overly nice people, but that was ok – it helped give me some idea of what his self would more be like. My wolf self is generally a nice fellow; it wouldn't hurt to have a character that played to the darker aspects of life.

Oh, and another random connection… One of the reiver clans of old was named “Elliot” – which happens to be my paternal grandmothers’ name. :) (I know it's common enough, but hey, I'm going for the hat trick here. )

The main problem? I have no talent for character design, and no artistic talent outside of writing (ask me to describe what I see and I can go on for hours; ask me to define what a character looks like without seeing them and I’m stumped.)

I wanted to commission someone to help with this, but couldn’t decide on who. Then Fate drops me a line with  purplepardus and  dixievonfur advertising a character adoption – ten horses for sale, 5 male, 5 female. Looking them over, there were 2 that kept drawing my attention. After thinking and feeling things over, I came to a decision and made my bid.


Ladies and gentlefurs… meet Reiver: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/14136235/
NSFW version here, if you want to see him au naturel http://www.furaffinity.net/view/14136368/


As to what will become of him, well – I’ll likely write some tales with him, and/or commission other pieces in the future. Likely they will all be PG-rated, but I may branch out into some adult as well given that this isn't me, per se. We'll see.

In any event, the first steps in the race to the future have been taken.

Time to see where this horse runs to.

I didn't do a pre-con meme, so I thought I'd write up a summary of my own con experience from this past Furnal Equinox. I don't think this is going to be easy to summarize, but I'll try.

The drive there and home was some of the smoothest I've ever experienced between Ottawa and Toronto, and thankfully by mid-afternoon  Biakko,  featheredragon and myself had arrived under sunny skies and with hopeful smiles.

This wasn't my most energetic con, as I didn't really do much late into the nights and I didn't do a ton of suiting (although I did get in my fair share, and most of it was fullsuiting this year :) but I felt it was balanced. I managed to make the most of the time spent with my lovely tigress as well as all my friends. It seemed like we were able to run into almost every Ottawa fur that was at the con, at one time or another (which was awesome yet not overwhelming.)

Much to many people's surprise, I had decided to enter the dance competition (FE's 2nd annual one.) There was an amazing 26 dancers (a full 10% of the suiters in attendance,) including a number of friends of mine. I wasn't sure I was going to be able to pull it off (including physically, as my body had been acting up the days leading up to the actual show) but in the end carried myself through it and most people seemed to like what I did. :) For those wondering, I danced to "Time's Scar" (which was the theme to the game Chrono Cross, but has a very tribal feel to it.) I caught a lot of people off guard with being there, but it was worth it in the end and I'm glad I went through with it all. Definitely the highlight of my con weekend, bar nothing.

If you want to see my dance, video (including the other competitors) can currently be found here:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9gEjnSbFMs
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGD73Pg3YjE

Howls go to  fionnadh  erisvalgen  panzier  SkyRyd3r  ledgema  Jirashi for some amazing times, although if the first one ever suggests walking to sushi in March again, I'm gonna feed him to the fanboys. >.<

Memorable moments:
- waiting with Zets in the lobby Thursday night for another fur to arrive, only to realize the mixed signals that had happened (but still enjoying seeing the reactions of normal people who were still showing up to the hotel and then greeted by a large walking, talking raccoon ^.^)

- Getting a room on the 2nd floor - and then finding out just how many of my friends were on that level as well. :)

- seeing  Tica in the audience at the opening ceremonies and hoping to catch her in suit later; little did I realize just what a big part of the con she would end up playing ^.^

- Meeting Flow's grandmother for the first time in person; she is such a sweet lady, and definitely seemed to fit right in. I know she'd wanted a picture with myself and Okwaho, but the timing of it just never happened. Ah well, another time...

- Randomly walking by the photo booth on Friday and seeing a picture of Neeraja and Zets from last year in a frame.... which, as it turns out, is one that they both had taken in 2013 but forgot to pick up. But hey - free advertising is free advertising ^.^

- Almost not being in the fursuit picture/parade due to confusion about how the timing of when we needed to be there. Considering last year's 45-minute suiter crushing, wrangling experience, I was skeptical they were going to let us in so early. Imagine my surprise at getting there with Nemesis around 3:15 and finding the doors already closed. Thankfully, they let us in the back when a large group of us started to assemble. It was good that they were more efficient this year, but communication and timeliness seemed to be the biggest challenges faced by the staff overall.

- providing an unexpected delivery of St Albert cheese curds and asian candies to Snapback (originally brought as a bribe, but then given just as a regular gift) and having her arrive AT THE SPEED OF LIGHT to get them.

- surprising Biakko on the final day with a plush cupcake (+7 cuteness)

To all the suiters and general furries that I had the pleasure of meeting and hanging out with, thank you for making this one of the best cons I've ever attended. Drama-free from my end, and not overly rushed or ruined in any way... it's going to be hard to top this one, but no matter what it was worth it.

This is just being posted to get that 69 meme-monstrrousity off my front page.

Also, it will contains better information tomorrow - but no telling for tonight! :^)

Stolen from  neeraja &  erisvalgen

I get the feeling whoever created this meme was recently heartbroken or spurned, and needed others' insight on affection. Too many similiar-sounding questions and strange female bias.

1: Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette?
Have so far. See no reason to change this particular behaviour.

2: Are you single/taken/heartbroken/confused?
I'm a white wolf ^.^

3: What if I told you that you were pretty?
I'd say thank you, and smile. That's about it. :)

4: Ever been told “it’s not you, it’s me”?
Can't remember, but probably not.

5: Are you interested in anyone right now?
Ya think?

6: What are you looking forward to in the next week?
The end of it, given the way today roughed me over at work. O.O

7: Do you want to be single?
I want to be plural!

8: Did you go out or stay in last night?
Stayed in comfortably.

9: How late did you stay up last night?
2am (although only because I didn't finish my game until 1:15). Have been surprisingly alert all day despite this fact.

10: Can you recall the last time you realized you liked someone a lot?
What time is it? Likely the answer is "Yes, and it wasn't that long ago."

11: Last three things you had to drink?
water, coke, and orange juice. Not all together.

12: Have you ever pretended to like someone?
Tricky. I am a very diplomatic person; even I don't like someone, I can still remain neutral around them.

13: Have you ever told somebody you loved them and not actually meant it?
Not exactly, although there have been those I said it to in a different sense than they did.

14: Honestly, has anyone seen you in your underwear in the past 3 months?
Honestly, that's a juvenile question.

15: Is it hard for you to get over someone?
It was at first, but having had many relationships in my lifetime, it gets easier.

16: Think back five months ago, were you single?
Why does that require thinking? And why five months? I'd rather think about those questions.

17: What were you (will you be) doing at 12:30 this afternoon?
At 12:30 today, I was working like crazy to figure things out at work. Hoping tomorrow isn't a repeat.

18: Hold hands with anyone this week?
Of course.

19: Could you go for the rest of your life without drinking alcohol?
Easily.

20: What would you name your future daughter?
Again, why only daughter, not son/daughter? You sexist?

21: Do you miss anyone?
Yeah. But I never dwell on it.

22: Have you kissed three or more people in one night?
Only in a platonic sense.

23: Did your last kiss take place in/on a bed?
That would be telling (although go to  neeraja for the answer)

24: Are you good at hiding your feelings?
I can be, but I have pretty powerful emotions that aren't always easily contained.

25: Have you ever cried from being so mad?
Only out of the "frustration" form of mad. Not angry mad.

26: Who did you last see in person?
Uhhhh... my coworkers? The clerk at the store I was at? What kind of an answer do you want?

27: Are you listening to music right now?
Just the fan on my PC.

28: What is something you currently want right now?
I want to make sure I get everything I hope to do tonight done. :)

29: What is the last thing you said out loud?
Probably an exclamation about these silly questions.

30: How is your heart lately?
Intact.

31: Do you wear the hood on your hoodie?
It's summer, why would I wear one of those?

32: Are you wearing socks?
Yes. Excited?

33: What do people call you?
You want the full list? Michael, Mike, Windrunner, Wind, Windy, Reaver, amongst other things I only allow a few special people call me ^.^

34: Will you talk to the person you like tonight?
Not "like"ly.

35: Are there any stressful situations in your life?
Don't get me started. The list changes often enough thankfully, which is good

36: Who did you last share a bed with?
Neeraja

37: Did you do something bad today?
I accidentally yelled "What?" at a coworker who bothered me while I was in the middle of focussing on something that I couldn't really afford to be distracted from while doing and....and....

....deeeeeeeeep breath.... Sorry. Hakuna matata.

38: When was the last time a member of the opposite sex hugged you?
Monday.

39: Do you get stressed out easily?
Depends on the overall situation. I'm in the middle on that.

40: Will you sing today?
Probably. But likely with no one around.

41: Have you ever wanted to tell someone something, but didn’t?
Sadly, yes... being diplomatic sometime gets in the way of being forthright.

42: Who do you go to when you need to talk to someone?
Several different people.

43: Have you ever been taken to the emergency room in an ambulance?
Not yet, thankfully.

44: What are you listening to right now?
My keyboard clacking and PC fan whirling. Weee.

45: What is wrong with you right now?
Need more time in the day, or a way to better control other people.

46: What is on your wrists right now?
Hair??? ~.O

47: Where did you get the shirt/sweatshirt you’re wearing?
No idea, I don't bother with that kind of minor long-term detail.

48: What do you like better: hot chocolate or hot apple cider?
Gotta go with Nee on this one and say hot apple cider, if only because it's less common. ^.^

49: Do you make wishes at 11:11?
Pfft. Which timezone does that apply to? Time is an illusion, teatime doubly so!

50: Are you a good artist?
Not if you mean drawing. But I can paint a beautiful picture with words.

51: Love really is a beautiful thing huh?
Love isn't a "thing." Don't treat it like one, and maybe you'll see for yourself.

52: Do you miss the way things were six months ago?
"Nope. Longing for the past is a waste of the present." - Neeraja
Can't put it better myself.

53: Ever been on a golf cart?
Yes. While golfing. What a twist.

54: Do you have trust issues?
Yes, I sometimes trust too freely. But I'm getting better.

55: Ever stayed up all night on the phone, with who?
Yes, in my early twenties. And yes, it was for phone sex with a LDR friend. I got over that when the phone bill was explained LOL.

56: Do you own something from Hot Topic?
There's 1 in Toronto, 5 hours away. What do you think?

57: Do you use chap stick?
No.

58: Have you ever slapped someone in the face?
No, just the ass. Repeatedly. It did nothing.

59: Do you have a little sister?
Why yes, I do. Again the female-oriented questions...

60: Have you ever been to New York?
The state? Yes. The city? No.

61: Think of the last person who said I love you, do you think they meant it?
Likely to her occasional surprise, but yes, I know she did. No thinking required.

62: Have you hugged someone within the last week?
Several people. I have no problem with that.

63: What were you doing at midnight last night?
Playing "Papers, Please." It's more addictive than I expected O.O

64: Have you ever regretted kissing someone?
Ehh. I don't dwell on things like that.

65: Is there one person in your life that can always make you smile?
One? Ha! I can't count the number of people.

66: Were your last three kisses from the same person?
Pretty sure.

67: Have you kissed anyone in the last five days?
If not, I hallucinate very convincingly.

68: Would you rather sleep with someone else or alone?
I'm good either way, but don't mind the company ^.^

69: Will next Friday be a good one?
I'll tell you yesterday.

So every year, we do this event in Ottawa called Furry Canada Day. It gives us a chance to go hang out in crowds of non-furries and enjoy the party as us (both fursuited and non-fursuited.) If you want to check out that, head on over to  FCD to see what the deal is about.

But that's not all! This year, we're doing things a little different - and this includes setting up a distinctly Canadian-themed YCH commission with the talented  Lycus. The proceeds will be split between the artist and the FCD committee to help fund things for that event.

You'll find the details here http://www.furaffinity.net/view/10766173/ if it interests you. A group commission with 13 slots available, each one centered around something Canadians are known for (with the exception of aplogizing, for which I apologize now that one isn't there ^.^)

BTW, you don't have to be Canadian to grab a slot (which are only $30), so if any of these poses interest you *cough bahnandmaplesyrupcough* then by all means send them a note!

Borrowed from  neeraja

A - Age: 37
B - Bed size: Queen
C - Chore you hate: Cleaning the porcelain (baths/toilets/sinks)
D - Dog's name: Emans'god ^.^
E - Essential start your day item: Internet
F - Favorite color: Forest green
G - Gold or Silver: Silver
H - Height: 5'10"
I - Ireland or Italy: Ireland
J - Job title: Business Analyst
K - Kid(s): Nope.
L - Living arrangements: I am still alive, and plan to keep things that way.
M - Mood: Overwhelmed
N - Nicknames: Wind, Windy,
O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth: ?? Umm, never happened
P - Pet Peeve(s): Pronouncing soft H's as hard and vice versa. ie. "An History" <shudders>
Q - Quote from a book: Geez, which one to choose... Nope, can't do it, too many.
R - Righty or Lefty: Right
S - Siblings: 1 younger sister
T - Time you wake up: Usually around 7/7:30 am
U - Underwear: Yes, I own and wear it. Want to ask Umbrella next?
V - Vegetables you dislike: Olives, and pickles if they count
W - Water or land: Land
X - X-rated or PG: XXX-rated but I hide it well.
Y - Yesterday's best moment: Taking a long walk with my tigress on a beautifully warm spring evening.
Z - Zoo favorite: Don't really have one since I have been to many zoos in my life.

Going to keep this brief, since it's been a couple of weeks... wait, it's only been a week since I came back.

O.O

Only?!?!??!

The feel this year was different than the last two, at least for myself. I loved the new hotel (aside from the odd-way-of-serving-Starbucks in the restaurant) - the layout was super-easy to get around, the stairs were convenient and big, and the space was well used. The only other odd thing was lack of real temperature control (both in the rooms and elsewhere) but hey - as a fursuiter, I'm used to being warmer than most people. ^.^

And having the chance to debut my fullsuit here was wonderful. With 4 Clockwork suits (and likely at least 1 more by next year ^.^) it was great to have a photoshoot of us all. As is always the case at a con, I didn't get to spend nearly half as much time with some friends as I wanted to - and yet did get a chance to spend a lot more time with a very old and dear one, so it was a fair trade-off. And meeting  charismatic1983 and  wolf-bold was fun too - but again, didn't have nearly as much time to spend as I wanted.

Filming the music video that we did was fun, although a lot more hectic than I realized - and I'm not the one editting it. I will admit, though, that I'm truly biting my nails, hoping that they got what they needed and that I was ok for what I did... eh, performance anxiety, I guess :)

It was fun watching  Neeraja experience her first social con, especially as she started fursuiting more and more. While I doubt she'll ever rival Flow for energy, she definitely matches in pure feline adorableness. (Of course, I might be biased a bit... naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.)

All in all, I'm glad things worked out as they did. It had its high moments and its low, and wasn't all roses - but by the end of it, I was happy and am looking forward to next year. ^.^ Here's to an even more amazing FE 2014!

*Warning: Rant ahead. If you dislike poor customer service but don't like reading about it, stop now. I know my business and this is just me, frustrated me, getting it out.

Ok, so as you can tell from my gallery, I'm into bows and arrows. I'll admit it - I love them. I'm not a hunter, although I have nothing against them. I'm strictly a target shooter, although when it comes to what I'm shooting them with I admit to being a traditionalist. Recurves, longbows, shortbows... that's my style.

The problem with being into this in Ottawa is that there are scant few resources for me to practice at, and just as few places where I can acquire anything new. Most places I know are over an hour outside of town in any cardinal direction (N, E, S, W). Canadian Tire barely stocks anything outside of arrows and toys for children learning. Sail, a new outdoors store in town, carries crossbows and supplies, but nothing for regular bows.

In fact, there's only 1 store that I have seen for years advertise itself as having 'archery' supplies - a sports store that does the hunting/fishing thing. But the few times I've walked in there, it's felt like they treat archery like the 'special kid' at the back of the bus. Their focus is mainly fishing gear and guns and supplies. Hence I really don't feel a strong need to deal with them.

Unfortunately, beggars sometimes can't be choosers (at least, at first.) Last summer, regretably one of the limbs on my oldest bow split down the middle and rendered it unusuable. I fully admit it was my fault, and so I started looking for ways to get a replacement - it is a 'takedown' bow, where the limbs can be removed for ease of carrying it. I figured I'd just buy a replacement annnnnd... nope. Doesn't seem like I can - it's too old now.

Reluctantly, I went to this store and asked them if they could order me some (took a couple of visits, since I didn't have the specs on my bow with me the first time.) I also asked them to order me a 'bowstringer.' At first, the guy showed me a bunch of bowstrings. He didn't know what I was talking about. *sigh* For the record, a bowstringER is someting that helps you put the bowstring on evenly without damanging it.

Long story short, I gave them the details and they said they would get back to me if they could order it. I also cleared saw the guy write down that I wanted a bowstringer too if they could. I heard nothing. I believe I checked in once a couple of months later, but was told nothing was done yet.

2 weeks ago, on Jan 26, I went to visit them again. I asked about the status of my order. The clerk said that the 'big order' would be in on Feb 9. I clarified, saying that I had made this request many months ago. The guy nodded and affirmed that everything was coming in that weekend.

Well. I went there after work today (Feb 11, 2013). I recognized one of the guys there, though he wouldn't have recognized me for sure. I asked if the order had come in. He said "What order?" I told him of my previous visit. He said some of it had... what did I order? I said a couple of bow limbs and.... and that's when he cut me off and said no, that hadn't come in yet. I explained I had been waiting for several months for news on this. He gave me the card for the owner, who will be back next week and is currently in Jamaica.

...

I have been in the customer service business my whole career. That's 12 years, for the record. 2 years as someone helping customers directly, and 10 years as an analyst for how a customer service call centre (amongst others) performs - and also how they succeed and how they suffer.

I'm not angry because my stuff hasn't arrived. I'm angry because I don't even know IF it's going to arrive. All I am hearing is "nope, no, sorry, not yet, check back later."

If there's one thing I KNOW for a fact, it's that you try to tell the customer "No" as little as possible. You do what you can to help them as much as you can before passing things off or giving the negative options. No one has called me. No one even checked the ledger (which they wrote my order/request down in) to see if there are any notes. I have never had to provide my name again. It's just "we don't have your archery stuff right now."

So I ask you, dear reader... why do they have the word "Archery" on the front of the store, and on their business cards, when I sure as f'in hell don't believe it?

I get that they are a very specialized business. I get that I'm not an avid customer. I get that not every business treats customer service as important. But you know what? I am serious enough to actually use your business to help me with an order because I want to. Why are you treating me like I didn't exist?

I am not mentioning the business name, but any locals could figure out which one I mean in one simple search. It's not like there's a lot in the phonebook. And I'm seriously thinking of calling up the owner some time next week, basically giving my story and saying that really, I don't care if they ordered them priority - I don't want to do business here. It sucks, since my options are really almost nill and to say that in the capital of a COUNTRY is sad. But why should I give my money to a business that hasn't really done anything at all? I'll just spend the extra money on gas and drive out of town and go deal with a store that is serious about wanting my business.

When you let go of a bowstring, the arrows flies, no longer in your control although you have started it on its path. Sometimes your aim is good, sometimes bad, but it will always miss the target if you never even try.

(Gratuitously swiped from :icon Electro_fox: )
Furnal Equinox 2013 meme:

Where are you staying?
The Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel (odd question, given that it's the only hotel)

What day are you getting there?
Thursday sometime

Who will you be with?
I'm rooming with  Neeraja

Who will you hang out with during the convention?
Depends on the time/place, but will have plenty of folks that I want to see.

Are there any panels you might be attending?
Probably not.

Are you attending any stage or public performances?
Want to try and watch the improv, but beyond that I'm not sure atm.

Will you be suiting?
As long as I'm breathing, you bet I will be.

Which suit(s) will you be bringing?
Logically, the only one I have

Do you draw?
Nope.

What are your limits to drawing?
I can draw words on a paper. Does that count?

How old are you?
37

How tall are you?
5'10" (why, planning on running around measuring everyone?)

Are you taken? Are you looking for a mate?
I am not taken, I do the taking (mind-taking!! ^.^)
(for the sarcastically-challenged, no, I am not seeking a relationship.)

Can I talk to you?
Sure, if I'm not busy and you want to.

Can I touch you?
I don't mind being hugged. "Touch" is a very general phrase, ya know?

How can I find you?
Since none of us has ever attended a con at this hotel, I really don't know yet. Dumb luck?

Can I visit your room?
Nope, sorry, that's off limits except to good friends.

Can I buy you drinks?
Buy yourself one and say it's for me, and we're good :)

Can I give you stuff?
?????

Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs for sure, snuggle is complicated

Are you nice?
I would like to think so. ^.^

How long are you going?
Arriving Thursday and leaving Monday.

If I see you, how should I get your attention?
Just make sure I can see you if I'm in suit, otherwise just say hi.

Where will you be most of the time during the days?
I will be around fursuiting most of the time or with my mate and/or friends

What/where will you be eating?
I don't really plan meals this far in advance, ya know?

Can I come with you for food/fun etc?
Perhaps, if we are already hanging out.

Can I look in your sketchbook?
*hands it to you right now* Enjoy!

Can I draw in your sketchbook?
You can try *watches you try*

Can I take your picture?
Certainly, I love to pose for pics, although if I say I have to go please respect that.

What’s your goal for the con this year?
To have fun and see my friends and fursuit my fur off.

Where do I even begin?

Without question, 2012 has to have been one of the best years of my life.

It wasn't perfect, it wasn't easy and yet it wasn't a struggle either. It really was 'just right.'

I came more into myself than ever before, even trying to relax and accept more of my innate geekness:
- playing D&D for the first time ever
- owning a lightsaber
- seeing more movies than I ever have in one year EVER (Avengers, Dark Knight Rises, Ted, Wreck-It Ralph, Life of Pi, Brave, The Hobbit, Frankenweenie, Hangover Part 2, The Illusionist, Ice Age, and probably more that I have forgotten)
- playing on Xbox live with friends
- playing Rock Band on Xbox live with friends :)
- watching the whole series of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Big Bang Theory

 neeraja has been one of the gems of my year and my life. Being with her as she attended Anthrocon in 2012 and seeing the wonder in her eyes, having her walk in the fursuit parade (even though she could barely see at the time, what a trooper) and shopping... it's just been a great ride.

Of course, there is the matter of the [censored kinky act here], but we have talked about it and think all will go well. There are plenty of other acts I could talk about, but I have never been one to kiss-and-tell in general. ^.^

(PM for specifics LOL)

So many things on my mind... I may edit this journal later as I remember them:
- Watching the Mars Rover touchdown from a planet away
- Being at Furnal Equinox and, unlike 2011, not waiting to jump into fursuit to walk around.
- Also, not seeing Zets there. Again. :)
- Anthrocon 2012 - the Cellphone Convoy
- Being in the fursuit parade with CC, and introducing Neeraja to some of them
- coming up with the idea for a second and third 'fursona' (while I AM Windrunner, there's 2 other character concepts I have that you will see soon enough )
- Hiking, exploring, chasing, laughing
- finding someone selling a custom-built (and drop-dead-gorgeous) longbow for a fraction of its true cost
- (this space left intentionally blank)
- introducing Neeraja to my family
- having an uncle and an aunt visit with my parents, meet Neeraja... and then to have my dad actually mention "furry" in conversation
- taking longsword classes with friends :)
- being a part of a kinky cabaret as the Big Bad Wolf again (tho done in public, so nothing racy showing on my part), and this time having my own personal Little Red along for the ride. ^.^
- Furry Canada Day 2012
- being thanked by some older woman who just saw us walking by, had no idea what furry or fursuits were, didn't ask, but was just glad to see people enjoying themselves ^.^
- wearing my fursuit at work for a funny video they were doing - and pulling it off ^.^
- Too many laughs and quotes to remember or forget :)

2012 hasn't been without some loss and hurt as well, for myself and for all of us. A few friendships diminished, while others increased. Furs killed on the way to conventions - or saving their mate by pushing them out of the path of a car. While I did not know any of them, as my social circle grows it may only be a matter of time. I also learned that at the end of the year on Dec 28 that someone I worked with - heck, the person whose job was directly responsible for me being hired full time - died in hospital. She wasn't a furry, but she loved wolves just as much as one, and I will miss her terribly. RIP Irene...

I start 2013 on a sober note, but an upbeat one. There's a lot I'm looking forward to this year, but it will have its share of hard work as well. I do need to lose some weight and get back into the shape I want to be in. I want to stay Windrunner, not Windwaddler ^.^

Was tricked into this by who neglected to poke me :P

THREE NAMES YOU GO BY:
1) Mike
2) Windrunner
3) Alpha

THREE SCREEN NAMES YOU HAVE HAD:
1) Windrunner
2) Alpha
3) Windrunner Lobo (on Second Life)

THREE THINGS YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF:
1) Ability to grasp the bigger picture
2) Think outside the box
3) Random sense of humor

THREE THINGS YOU DON'T LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF:
1) My weight
2) Tendancy to occasionally not focus on just one thing
3) Self-censorship man (start saying something, but then stop myself before finishing)

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE YOU:
1) Drowning in a pool.
2) Losing those that I care about.
3) That I will return to the bad days when I let everyone else control my time.

THREE OF YOUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS:
1) Internet
2) Caffeine
3) Laughing

THREE THINGS YOU ARE WEARING RIGHT NOW:
1) T-Shirt
2) Jeans
3) Wolf Pendant

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE BANDS/SINGERS:
1) Information Society
2) Fox Amoore
3) Abney Park

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS AT PRESENT:
1) I Will Wait - Mumford & Sons
2) Stompa - Serena Ryder
3) Love is blindness - Jack White

THREE NEW THINGS YOU WANT TO TRY IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
1) Fursuiting in a full body suit
2) Flying internationally (only done it once in my life)
3) Uhhh....no idea.

THREE THINGS YOU WANT IN A RELATIONSHIP:
1) Intelligence
2) Humour
3) Fun

TWO TRUTHS AND A LIE IN NO ORDER
1) When I was 19, I attempted a solo bicycle road trip to Manitoba.
2) An episode of Doctor Who that I watched when I was very young caused me to fear showerheads for a few years.
3) I despise eating swiss steak.

THREE PHYSICAL THINGS ABOUT THE OPPOSITE SEX THAT APPEAL TO YOU:
1) Cheeks (on the face)
2) Breasts
3) Smile

THREE THINGS YOU JUST CAN'T DO:
1) Draw/paint an image/picture
2) Physically attack someone out of anger
3) Be single-minded (damn Gemini instincts)

THREE THINGS YOU CAN DO:
1) Understand everyone's point of view
2) Keep a secret
3) Listen and offer advice when warranted

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES:
1) Fursuiting
2) Watching video reviews on the Internet
3) Archery

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO REALLY BADLY RIGHT NOW:
1) Restructure time so I can have more of it :)
2) Go for a run in the woods
3) Go for a run in the woods in full fursuit

THREE CAREERS YOU'RE CONSIDERING:
N/A - Love my current job

THREE PLACES YOU WANT TO GO ON VACATION:
1) Ireland
2) Japan
3) Someplace quiet in cottage country

THREE KID'S NAMES:
1) Trevor
2) Phillip
3) Zachary

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE:
1) Live
2) Love
3) Laugh - OH LOOK I'VE DONE THEM ALL!!! XD

THREE PEOPLE WHO HAVE TO TAKE THIS QUIZ NOW OR DIE PAINFULLY:
Naaa... if anyone wants to do this after reading mine, let them. Not forcing anyone to do this :)

Well, interestingly enough, I've hit 50 journals - not exactly a huge landmark, but still a milestone. I thought I'd use this to write something profound about what has happened over the past 2 years and how I have changed... but you know what? Everyone who needs to know already does, and I'm feeling amazing about my life right now.

Therefore, I figured I would share some details on me that you may (or may not) care to learn, without fear - but not necessarily straightforward ^.^

"Borrowed" from  Wolf-bold

ALL | ABOUT | ME
____________________________________________________________________________

- Name: Michael, Mike®, Windrunner, Alpha
- Single or taken: Currently occupied with my tigress, Neeraja
- Sex: Male
- Sign: Gemini
- Hair color: Brown
- Eye color: Green
- Are you straight/bisexual/gay?: Complicated :)
____________________________________________________________________________

S P E C I F I C S
____________________________________________________________________________

- What kind of shampoo do you use? Clear
- What are you listening to right now? Live to Rise by Soundgarden
- Who is the last person that called you? A wrong number, regretably
- How many buddies are online right now? Sorry, not that psychic
____________________________________________________________________________

F A V O R I T E S
____________________________________________________________________________

- Animal: Wolf/Canines
- Color: Grey/silver, green, brown
- Drink: Strawberry milkshake
- Element: Air
- Food: Waffles (my own homemade ones :))
- Game: Skyrim, Old Lucasarts/Sierra Quest games, Half-Life
- Movie: Amelie
- Song: How could I ever choose just one? :)
- Subjects in school: Archaeology in 3rd year university
- T.V.: Battlestar Galactica (reboot), ST Deep Space 9, amongst others
____________________________________________________________________________

H A V E | Y O U | E V E R
____________________________________________________________________________

- Given anyone a bath?: Many people, both intimately and not
- Smoked?: Never
- Bungee jumped?: Nope
- Made yourself throw up?: Yes (booze and cheese-heavy pizza don't mix)
- Skinny dipped?: Yes
- Ever been in love?: Many times :-/
- Made yourself cry to get out of trouble?: Not that I can recall
- Pictured your crush naked?: Yes (many times)
- Actually seen your crush naked?: Yes (many times)
- Cried when someone died?: Of course!
- Lied: Everyone lies
- Fallen for your best friend?: Sadly, yes, many years ago. Never again.
- Used someone?: Hmm... don't think so. Depends on what you mean.
- Done something you regret?: Yes, though I don't dwell on regrets.
____________________________________________________________________________

C U R R E N T
____________________________________________________________________________

- Clothes: Navy blue pressed pants and a blue dress shirt
- Desktop picture: Not telling
- Song on Ipod: Paradise by Coldplay

____________________________________________________________________________

L A S T | P E R S O N
____________________________________________________________________________

- You touched: Technically, a coworker (though it was more they hit my arm jokingly)
- Hugged: Neeraja
- You kissed: Neeraja
- You IMed: Uhhh... too long ago to remember
- Talk to online: How is this different from the previous question?
- You sexed it up with: ^.^ Riiiiiiiiight. This meme was created by a teenager, wasn't it?
___________________________________________________________________________

A R E | Y O U
___________________________________________________________________________

- Understanding?: As much as I can be.
- Open-minded?: Inifinitely
- Arrogant?: I hope not.
- Insecure?: No.
- Random?: Giraffe!!
- Hungry?: Not right now.
- Smart?: I have been given that compliment before :)
- Moody?: Hell no, unless things are really bad
- Organized?: Yes
- Shy?: Only around people I don't know too well.
- Difficult?: I can't answer this on my own ;)
- Bored easily?: Not really
- Entertained easily?: Yes
- Obsessed?: With what?
- Lazy?: Slightly
- Angry?: Not in general
- Happy?: Yep!
- Hyper?: Not normally
- Trusting?: Yes
___________________________________________________________________________

R A N D O M
___________________________________________________________________________

- In the morning I: need to browse the Internet to get going. THE PIXELS ARE MY CAFFEINE!
- Love is: Blindness (Jack White version ^.^)
- I dream about: Everything
- What do you notice first in the sex you're into: Their face.
___________________________________________________________________________

W H O
___________________________________________________________________________

- Makes you laugh the most: All those I care about
- Makes you smile: All those I care about
- Gives you a funny feeling when you see him/her: ??????????
___________________________________________________________________________

D O | Y O U | E V E R
___________________________________________________________________________

- Sit on the internet all night waiting for that someone special to IM you?: No
- Wish you were a member of the opposite sex?: No
- Wish you were younger?: No
- Cry because someone said something to you?: No
___________________________________________________________________________

N U M B E R
___________________________________________________________________________

- Of times I have had my heart broken?: Uhhhh... no comment. :-/
- Of Cd's I own: 50+
- Of scars on my body: ~1
- Of bones I've broken: 0 (though have fractured my skull once on the back of a parked car)

Wow.

That. Was a con to remember.

Not perfect, it's true. But every masterpiece has its flaw

I managed to do most of what I wanted to (2/Kage's + Kage's solo show, the Masquerade, the dance finals, the fursuit parade as well as the CC rooftop shoot) as well as hang out with friends and get some solo time in as well.

I was thrilled to see  Neeraja's introduction to a true furry convention and everything that comes with it. With my own fresh thoughts (since this was only my 2nd AC ever) I was able to help her out, while (hopefully) not being too controlling or anything. :-/

I managed to get a few things from the dealer's den, met a bunch of people (some new, some whose names I have known for many years,) and overall had a better time than last year - but last year was still pretty good so I'm not complaining. XD I even got to participate in Under The Table Con with Greifer and bunch of others this year, which was... interesting. :)

Ohhh... this journal's barely even touched on so much of what I experienced, it seems hardly fitting to post...

I might post another later, but wanted to throw this up before too much time had passed. Thanks to all that I hung out with, even if it was only for a short while. Thanks for all the laughs and fun and amazing sights and... just being you.

Thanks. Until we meet again.

Well, this has been a most interesting day, spent in the company of  neeraja and  flowkitty at the new convention centre in Ottawa. The latter having more experience with these sorts of things, she encouraged us to go extra-early, whereas I made sure we had a good breakfast and took our time...

This wasn't the smartest plan, in hindsight. It took us a solid hour in line to get in - standing in the sun the whole time, following a line that looped twice behind the building. Once inside, it was better but the amount of people was absolutely crazy! They were everywhere!

I didn't meet any celebrities, but did get my picture taken in the Delorean (in fursuit, no less!) I get that picture on Monday, will post it then. Mostly walked around a lot and checked out the stuff. Stayed for the masquerade, which was a lot of fun! There were some really great costumes from pretty much all fandoms.

Took the bus there and back, and left the car at home. On the bus back, there was this young couple that literally wouldn't stop making out for most of the ride - much to the annoyance of those around us. Definitely a bizarre way to end an enjoyable day. :)

Well, after having had a few weeks to digest my experiences from Furnal Equinox this year (*urp*), I think I'm ready to speak. This is probably going to come off rather disjointed, so bear with me if you please.

What a difference a year makes. Last year, I was an almost-newly-minted fursuiter, I barely knew anyone, I roomed alone, and even left on Sunday afternoon. This year, I was all-in: I drove down with 3 local furs (Lycus, Gade and Serith) Thursday afternoon, roomed with Gade and Feather (and theoretically DizzyWizzy, although sadly that didn't quite work as planned...), hung out with good friends from all over, met new people (and was recognized too!), and didn't leave until Monday. It was a much more active and satisfying experience, on the whole.

Oh, and of course, Zets wasn't there again. Didn't see him at all shortly after arrival, although there *was* a crazy raccoon in a bathrobe who kept running around the con being hyper and friendly-like. They must be related.

If 2011 was about me finally 'getting' was a full convention was about (after so many years in the fandom,) 2012 was about growing on that. I helped out the ill Brimstone with the karaoke Friday and Sunday, managed to get to a few of the events that I had missed the previous year (especially the improv! BTW...where's your 6-year-old? ), and generally hung out with people more than before. Relaxacon ftw!

There were a few other events happening at the hotel this year at the same time, which meant more interested passers-by than last year (as least, as I recall.) The DJCon resulted in 4 lovely young ladies stopping me to ask what everything was about and "what went on in the rooms over there" LOL (I spoke honestly of panels and discussions... no evil secrets to give away, I'm afraid . I had no qualms about talking with them, for sure! ^.^

The weather was ultra-co-operative and super-warm and a true blessing - I loved that we were able to go outside in fursuit for the group shot; it also meant no repeat of the "I'm only ears and eyes" issue that happened last year LOL. Dead center baby, yeah! It helped keep spirits high, that's for sure.

An interesting persona reflection I've had... each of the 2 times I've been to FE, I've ended up with a song that will trigger memories of the times I was there. For 2011, it was Gowan's "You're a strange animal" - dancing to that, during Miami's 80s set with Flow, Wynderkind and Okwaho was pure magic. This year, instead of a dance, it's the video that Olefin and Hiker put up during the opening ceremonies, with the song "Paradise" by Coldplay. It's a very well-done production, and the balance it shows... meant something. I dunno... maybe I'm just being sentimental but I like a lot. I will always think of this video and this convention whenever I hear that song.

Here's a link for those that haven't seen it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvHwC16HuzM

One downside: I tried using my new cellphone to take pictures with and most of the pictures didn't turn out very well (blurrycam). I have a couple I will to post soon. That's the biggest "drawback" to being a fursuiter - you tend to end up in more pictures than you have time to take. But still, that's a bargain in my books. I have been given a few photos by a friend that I will post from because I think they turned out worthwhile. Thanks to everyone that said hello or that I met both in suit and out.

I hadn't been to a convention since last October and was craving this badly (a new experience in itself!) FE 2012 was worth the price of admission and more, and I can't wait for next year.

Is it June yet?

(long one to follow when I have more time)

Had an amazing time... roomed mostly with local furs (unlike by myself last year)... got to see many old friends and made some new ones, but felt all bonds strengthening.

A good friend said the energy was different this year, and I agree - but not in a good/bad way. Things/furs who needed a change found it there - and how appropriate, given that next year will be in a new hotel.

Had an amazingly fast drive there, an equally problem free drive home, and for 4 days disappeared from the mundane world into madness and frivolity and fun.

More to come, but thanks to everyone.