Field Trip: Bellingham Anime Convention…or my Year of Yes

Recently I read My Year of Yes by Shonda Pierce and have had it rattling around in my mind. So, when the conversation at work turned to one of my co-worker Lexi Hall's passions, Anime and Comic Cons I was intrigued. Apparently enough to agree to take part in one, should it come up. 

Well, let's just say it came up! Knowing there is strength in numbers I asked my youngest daughter to join us. She has much more of a knowledge of all things Pokemon and things game related. Lexi, besides designing and building our costumes from scratch, also has her own YouTube station that you can check out here. She was the perfect leader in our first outing…yup, I said first outing. I would so do this again! Here she as Jolteon. 

When we arrived at the Convention we could barely take in all the action…and keep in mind this is a smaller show. We took a spin around the Artist Alley where there were many creatives selling prints, keychains, and other handmade items. We made our debut as Jolteon, Umbreon and Sylveon. 

(photo by Lexi Halls)

We were stopped several times for photos…either in our group, or with others, and it was such a rush! Being in costume made it so much easier to be uninhibited. And it's an incredibly accepting, encouraging group. 

(photo by Lexi Halls)

Some people would get incredibly excited to see their favorite character come to life. It's so much fun to see all the creativity. Lexi took part in the Masquerade, which is the costume judging. While she was taking part in the pre-juding Samantha and I took in a panel by Tiffany Grant, an anime voice actor. 

(photo by Lexi Halls)

So far I'd say this idea of saying Yes to opportunities that come up is working out pretty well for me. I think I will make it a year long thing as a celebration of sorts of my upcoming birthday. This was the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of it!