Arisia Convention

At this year’s Arisia our own clan made its strongest showing at the great tribal gathering. With the return in force of the Washburn family (including their newest addition), the first all-members presence of the Brenton clan and the first-time attendance of my darling boyfriend the extended Allston commune was nearly fully present. There were laughs and drinks and geekery shared with local friends seen too seldom throughout the year and welcome reunions with farther flung friends sadly seen only annually these days. There were also grand new folks to meet including a pair of delightful Canadians and a charming lady I have met several times but only when we are inebriated so it’s always kind of new.

I sampled food from New Orleans, liqueurs from Montreal, wore a toga and a mouse costume (both in the same night). Once again I saw the Skanks in line at registration and then never again all con, much to my disappointment. I listened to a favorite author read an unpublished story and sold two paintings in the art show. I actually made it to a 10 AM panel on Saturday morning! That never happens! There were beautiful costumes, clever tee-shirts and rocket fuel. I was touched by the generosity of a vendor and the hospitality of an evil queen. I can’t believe it’s over and I can’t wait for next year.

Special thanks to: N. K. Jemisin, Security, Access Services, Registration, Art Show, selkiechick, snarkyman, zentinal, eric_in_elevatr, amerigance, augustsnow, richenza, devoken, Joe, Norah, Joey, J.D. Hobbes, Rebecca, Dr. Karen and pretty much everyone else who added to the living swirling tapestry of quirky creative shenanigans that is Arisia.

And, as always, thanks to Shanna and T for getting me here in the first place.

rafaela, you were missed.