Help with some Housing

Hey Everyone! The Wapekeka First Nations Band has graciously allocated to our family it's first house - thank you so much, miigwetch!

The problem is... it is only a 1 bedroom unit for our 2 parent, 2 children & 1 co parent household - we are a blended family! Currently we have been living in one house with 2 grandparents, 1 uncle, 3 nephews, 2 children and 3 parents all consistently live in our household, with more nieces and nephews sometimes coming and going.. with only 1 bathroom, 1 kitchen and not enough bedrooms or space to cope... We are so grateful to the band for this opportunity for our own home for our little family of five.

Our 2 year old son can sleep with us in the bedroom for the time being but our daughter will have to sleep in the livingroom, which means her mother will have nowhere to sleepover as she co-parents with us. We will have no livingroom for family bonding or for our children to have friends sleepover as they grow up. We will have no space to have extended family & friends come to visit or just space to live outside of our own beds. 

My Stepdaughter's drawing - hoping for a 2nd house

The solution is to buy the construction supplies needed and pay a crew to build an extension onto the unit. But it is not cheap by any means considering the cost of construction supplies to begin with, shipping them rural/remote Northern Canada, then selling them wholesale, then shipping them to the First Nations reserve you are located in. 'Mistik North Building Supplies & General Store' does a huge service to Canadian First Nations but most families cannot meet the financial demands to cover such construction without help. Customers have to have it flown in by cargo plane or wait until Winter where ice roads can be build and travel to get the supplies themselves.

We have been quoted materials for 2 small bedrooms and a storage porch. Bedrooms so my son and stepdaughter can have their own space to live, learn and grow up.

Mistik North has initially quoted for 28k in materials from their lumberyard to Pickle Lake, ON Canada. To have it shipped the rest of the way to Angling Lake, ON Canada would be almost another 15k. So we created a GoFundMe to ask for your help to fundraise construction supplies for our first house!

Even if we can fundraised between 15-20k just to buy the materials would be the biggest blessing for our family after so much struggle. 

After the traumatic birth of my son and the stress thereafter our family is in desperate need of a positive fresh start. Three of my spinal disks started to collapse as I was 34 weeks pregnant with out son, we were awaiting news if we would be allocated a house and instead were awaiting an emergency c-section and spinal chord surgery. 

Instead we awaited news if I would ever walk again as a first time mother and stepmother. I worried if I would even be able to help my husband move into our first house if or when we got the news...

Thankfully two years later I am walking with my son, I am lifting him in the air as he laughs, I am buying furniture and picking out paint colours with my stepdaughter for our soon-to-be finished house, I am excited for our future with my husband... But no parent can easily admit that their future needs help. With my recovery I could drive with my husband to pick up the materials but we need your help for the cost. Please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/wapekeka-housing-for-the-brown-bear-family

Please help my children, help our little family, finally have its first own place to physically/mentally feel safe and sound. Please!

What's in a name?

Mary-Anne.. Bobby-Lynn.. Mary-Kate.. Tommy-Lee.. Amy-Leigh.. Mary-Lou.. Mary-Margret.. Anna-Beth..
These are some examples of Two-word names, also known as double-barrelled names, are names that consist of two separate words, often BUT NOT ALWAYS hyphenated, used together as a single name.

And the newest addition?

NicholasLiam

Many have been wondering the story behind our Pear Bear's name..

Nicholas is Jeremy's middle name (surprise!)
Liam is one of the funniest, tallest, and first [male] friends I made working at GT in Kingston. He is a very valued friend to me and we went through thick n thin together! He has never judged me, never misunderstood me and always taken my side when work was hard. Some friends gravitate towards you naturally and you couldn't see your life without their friendship in it. Liam and I have never lost touch and we check up on each other frequently. He truly is a valued friend and I wish him all the best in his rising careers and life! We also took the same SLC IMC program years apart. Small world!
(Also who doesn't like the name Liam?)

Anderson is for one of the greatest men to touch my heart in my time in Kingston. Another GT coworker, he has gone through alot with me and taught me so much more. You cant always pick your family but Harry will always be family to me through hell or high water. When times were tough and work was hard to was always an ear to listen, a good judge and a wise friend. I couldn't get through a shift without him or Liam with me. I'm always thankful for the time we worked together and the shenanigans we had. I'm always happy to hear how he is doing and am so proud to have named my son after him and Liam.

Brown is Jeremy's Family Last name. To put it simpler it is the Western version of their name. The real family name is Mishakaameyashinoonini. The best translation of this is "people of (or who come from) water" from what my husband could learn. For those who do not know Jeremy is First Nations Anishinaabe and in Wapekeka First Nation they speak OjiCree.

And of course he has other last names known from My Side of the family. His Polish/Ukraine/German side and my Grenadian side (don't forget everyone I was adopted haha!) Pommer is from my German grandfather's side of my family and Haleshewski is from my Polish/Ukraine Nana's side of my family. 

Maybe one day my son will want to visit the Caribbean and see Grenada where his mom comes from..
Or visit the Ukraine or Poland to see where his Great Nana and great Aunts came from..
My son could wish to learn German like his Great grandpa..
Perhaps he will one day be fluent in OjiCree like his dad..
NicholasLiam has a big varied family any many options in life, and i am very glad.

But for now I can't wait for my son to meet his namesakes one day soon. All three of these men are so dear to me and I want my son to grow up to know his name, the men behind it and be proud of it. Your name is unique to you and your personality, your character and your heart. And my son definitely is one of a kind with a one of a kind name. I love him.

Please help Rez Dogs get a Vet Clinic in Wapekeka

Our amazing Nursing staff have orchestrated our first ever vet clinic for this year but it's going to take a lot to make happen! We are trying to raise as much money as we can to cover the veterinary staff, airfare, accommodations and everything else needed for these amazing caring people to come help our rez dogs!

But not only that I want to help make a surplus to help families who don't have the funds to get their dogs the help or spay/neuter they need once the vets come. Not every family has the means to always help their pets so I am asking for your help.

A bag of 8kg pet food can cost around $150.00CAD up North. A round trip plane ticket from Wasaya airways from Wapekeka to Sioux Lookout costs UP to $1,912.00 if you need to bring your pet out to find a veterinarian. Not every family has that much disposable income to use for their animals. Most dogs end up spending their whole lives outside, with their owners or strangers giving them food, having their puppies outside, their puppies have to survive and grow up outside and when a dog is in heat there are too many dogs to keep from fighting. Not to mention other methods of "population control" that have circulated the news recently..

Our nursing staff, other volunteers around the community and locals have been amazing helping to care for dogs and ship them out to vets and adoption agencies. But they need help and they need funds. ANY and all donations would be greatly appreciated! With your help we can aid alot of good pets. Please consider helping Wapekeka-Angling Lake First Nations and our pets at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-rez-dogs-get-a-vet-clinic-in-wapekeka

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT REZ DOGS by Isaac Murdoch [https://saverezdogs.com/resources/rezdogmedicine]

1. They are not mutts and have been apart of our communities for thousands of years. They are 100% Indigenous and deserve our utmost respect. Just because they dont have papers, doesnt mean they are not amazing. Indian dogs are a very speacial breed that need our protection.
2. They can gaurd our lodges and eat any bad medicine or evil that may be lurking in our villages. Tie a tobacco tie onto the back of its neck and ask it to seek out any danger in this manner. Many tribes believe their job is protect our lodge doorways from a distance. This is why when one comes into our ceremonies, its known as a bad omen. Something bad has come to the village. Pay attention to them, they are messengers.
3. They are star gazers and know the celestrial map that hangs over our heads. Because of this, they also know the future and can tell us the dangers that lie ahead. They know where the bad ice is and when storms are coming. Watch them celebrate when good things happen too. Oh, they also know what medicines to eat when they are sick. They can teach us stuff.
4. They know our languages. For thousands of years they heard our language. They know it inside and out. Make offerings to them and pray that the languages come back strong. Never underestimate the spiritual power of a rez dog. Like never ever. Some believe our ancestors will come visit us as a dog. You will notice them. They will have human eyes and act like old souls. Cherish them always and seek their council.
5. When we treat them well, they give us back ten times the love and respect. They are so loyal and solid they will die to save our life. Also, when they are lil puppies, find one you admire and spit in its mouth. Through this ceremonial act, a sacred bond will be made and you will have a new best friend who will always be there for you. #RezDogMedicine

SUPER MOM TO THE RESCUE!

Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact. We’re searching for one extraordinary mama to win $20,000, be featured in Woman's World magazine, and jet off to Palm Springs, CA, for a well-deserved weekend getaway. Colossal has raised over $2.6 million through the Super Mom Competition benefiting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals®. We take great pride in our collaboration with this incredible organization and share in their vision to Change Kids Health, Change the Future.

So I entered the SUPER MOM contest; to continue sharing my story with my son Nicholas-Liam and the importance of work safety - as it does wear & tear on your body immediately as well as years later. My neck and my baby will tell you so!

So my entry?

What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

That I get to teach and raise my son to become the best he can, and wants to be - together with my husband, equally. And witness everything new & exciting again in Nicholas-Liam's eyes.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

His first anishinaabe (mini) smudging ceremony for good luck to him and I while we were healing in the hospital. Coincidentally on his "supposed to be birthday" as he came early from his due date.

What would you do with $20,000?

- His RESP that I contribute to monthly 

- Cultural aspects of his mixed ethnicity and heritage - modern Polish/Ukraine and Grenadian as well as traditional Anishinaabe 

- And starting funds for a house of our very own!

My husband, firstborn son, stepdaughter and I would love a beautiful fresh start in a first home from winning this prize. Being able to speak on behalf of mixed intercultural relationships (as well as ours started as long distance successfully) as well as being a non-status civilian living on reserve in Woman's World Magazine would be an honor beyond appreciation. And showing my son when he is older how our contest entry raised donations for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals® would be such a great memory for him. I owe my family alot and this contest is a chance to show them just how hard I am willing to work and care for them. I love them.

I'd appreciate if everyone could give a VOTE! All it takes is a free click or a donation. Pear Bear and I would greatly appreciate it! COPY & PASTE THIS LINK INTO YOUR BROWSER TO USE https://thesupermom.org/2024/jessica-brown-12

Sometimes in Life..

Events happen that you don't or can't completely plan for. Sometimes in Life you meet people that keep you going in hard times. Or circumstances that are completely unfair have to be struggled through. Sometimes in Life you have to let others know about your life experiences; if not to thank them or humble them but to warn or educate them.

It's funny how something so small as shoulder pain can be perceived as so many different things. In mid August I thought all we needed were new pillows (granted we DO need new pillows.) and so I ignored it knowing we were due for our family vacation soon - which included the Fall Fair and lots of shopping.

Aug 24th 2023

I developed pain not only in both my shoulders but a "pins & needles" kind of numbness down to my elbows. The feeling when one of your limbs fall asleep? Imagine it consistently not going away for almost 36hrs..

Aug 25th 2023

By 1:30pm not only was I struggling to walk straight or keep my own weight up but the "pins & needles" feeling had started in my legs down to my feet - along with my shoulders and hands still.

I'd like to apologize to the employees of Dryden Walmart that got concerned thinking my water was about to break and the kind Greeter who offered me her chair

By 3:00pm my legs gave out. I stood up from a bed and went back down onto it and was thankful Jeremy was there to catch me.

By 4:00pm I couldn't even hold a pen properly to sign my name on the paperwork at Dryden Regional Health Center.

Aug 26th 2023

Both my sides were numb up to my arms (thankfully I could still feel the little pear sized bear) adding onto the list including my legs, feet, arms and hands.

Aug 27th 2023

I was transferred to Thunder Bay Regional Hospital in my first helicopter ride. Not the way I wanted my first to go... but I must admit it was still incredible wicked! Next time I hope not to be strapped down and numb though.

Thank you SO much to the nurses at Dryden Regional and the Ornge helicopter ambulance drivers. You all showed me great care and concern - and shared confusion. And I hope if ever any of you read this that you know we figured it out, Nicholas-Liam is fine and I am working towards being okay.

Sometimes in Life.. the hardest working people get screwed over.. the people who smile the most struggle to stay strong.. and unfortunately events happen that will hopefully open someone's eyes to the necessity of health and safety, for one's personal present and future self.

Around the same time as having my wisdom teeth removed a few years ago I pinched a nerve in my neck. Doctor's said it was caused by my labor intensive jobs. Fast forward to now and that pinched nerve developed into 4 spinal disks crushing in on each other (for those needs who are curious my C4 and 5 and my C6 and 7) there was also some bone fragments and tissue needing to be removed.

This was NOT because of any weight gain or pregnancy weight gain (before you bother trying to trigger me with your opinion about it.) Medical professionals have assessed me and told me themselves that it was very bad luck & bad timing. Or in this case maybe bad luck but good timing.. Or what I get for being such a hard worker.. It could have been I agitated it by trying to stretch when I first had my shoulder pain. It could have happened while I gave birth or shortly after. It could have not happened until years from now.

Aug 29th 2023

For those who actually paid attention to his due date, yes Nicholas-Liam came early by c-section so that I could prepare for spinal chord surgery two days later. 

To the 1CU and doctors at Thunder Bay Regional I owe you so much! Thank you for keeping me positive and being the most supportive amazing people I've ever met! I tried my hardest to give you all the respect and positivity you deserve because its not your fault that a scared confused expecting mother showed up on your doorstep to deal with. Nicholas and I will forever be grateful to the care you gave us!

Aug 31st 2023

Ever wonder what's in your neck? A doorway to your spine apparently! Bye bye old bones and loose bits and hello to another addition to my bionic body collection! For those who forget my left foot is half metal now a chunk of my spine is too! Thank you SO much Neurosurgeons of Thunder Bay Regional!

Unfortunately my left arm did not come out of surgery unscathed - which sucks being left handed. I have (hopefully temporary) neuropathy in both my hands and feet and my left arm is very weak. BUT I can feel all my ligaments again!

My new home is a neck brace for 3 months and full recover 1 year on top of recovering from the c section simultaneously. My neck muscles will also need rehab physiotherapy once the brace is off because I won't have turned or tilted it for realistically almost 4 months. 

Before you grab your devices to contact me.. Nicholas-Liam is fine and I am on track to recovering fine.

I wanted to explain this so that one other person in the world will question when they have shoulder or neck pain. I wanted to explain this so that one other person decides to lift heavy objects properly with their knees, back, a cart or stool or with a partner at their workplace. I wanted to explain this so that one other person that gets injured either at work or in their personal life does not get scared or bullied into not getting it checked out - that they don't just shrug it off because they need to work hard and make money to survive.

If I could go back in time every injury I got while working over the past 3 years I would have taken the courage, time and money to have checked out. I wouldn't of just touched out my pinched nerve hoping it healed right on its own. I wouldn't of just paid for a knee brace out of my own pocket when I popped out my knee. I would tell myself to get these things looked at so it doesn't come back to mess with me in the future. And I hope this is a wake up call to someone else as well.

Don't worry I will post a more happy "welcome to the world" for Nicholas-Liam later! It's the least he deserves for his early womb evacuation. And for the choice few that I did give news to I'd like to thank you for all of your love, concern and support. 

Coming to Theatres Sept 2023

 Welcome all to the newest Chapter in J&J Adventures!

Most of you personally know by now that Jeremy and I can officially announce our expansion of the Brown Bear clan! Thank you to the few select trusted family and friends who had the honor of keeping our secret & excitement. We wanted to wait for it to be public knowledge until both of our mothers could participate in the announcement and excitement - we also help a baby gender reveal that we wanted both our mothers to be apart of.

Thanks to everyone who voted guessing for Team Girl or Team Boy! 

It was great fun - despite the hair sprayed with bug spray and mosquitoes attending our family cook out to be able to surprise everyone with the newest boy to come to the family.

Our Baby Registry is a WIP for those interested but your continuous love, support, friendship & excitement is more than enough needed! You can also help out on my ko-fi page if you'd rather not deal with Amazon shipping, haha! I've been using it to update on our adventures and my journey from East to North Ontario.

More will be updated later! On first time pregnancy experiences, opinions and boundaries. As well as more long-distance tips & tricks on making it work!

New Life, who 'dis?

 “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new” -Socrates

In 2021 'my song' was 'release me by Agnes' and in those 365 days since I have made many realizations, decisions and changes in my life. Now in 2022 'my song' is 'Hello by Allie X' and soon to be 'Break my soul by Beyonce.'

Some of you keeping up with me personally already know but I have been very busy as of late - with my blog and new TikTok taking a delayed result, haha. Closing one chapter of my city life for a new one in the country. 

If you need a full update read the post here but for the spark notes version:

2016: A city cat met a country Bear and became quick friends 

2018: The friendship continued with plans to reunite but had to cancel.

2019: Misunderstanding feelings and miscommunication kept them supportive friends... 

2021: After much growth & heartbreak for both, the cat convinced the bear they deserved to accept their feelings & each other. 

2022: The long awaited reunion & vacation! Followed by decisions to close the distance!

Curious about the J&J journey? You can Follow along my Ko-fi Page for updates, info and greatly appreciated support for the big move at https://ko-fi.com/jandjadventures I've been very grateful for the time, lessons and memories I've had in Kingston and truly thank everyone who has been supportive or excited for my new chapter! The reunions & good lucks (not goodbyes) I've had with many of you truly touch my heart. I'll be using my TikTok and Facebook Reels to make snippets and updates don't worry!

I will be posting about my Long Distance move experience soon after so keep an eye out! 

Also for anyone else planning a long distance/remote move I will be posting a how-to so others can learn from my experience or know where to start!

Avalon of the Heart, my first book

Through the years I've been told that different aspects of my life would make for a good book. So here is the story I thought of from my most recent vacation..

Avalon of the Heart.

A mushy story of trials through time for peace and prosperity.

Once upon a time a mighty bear from the country met a cute cat from the city. The bear was tall, dark and handsome - very strong and very smart. The cat was beautiful, lively and brave - very responsibly and caring. They were instantly friends and although the bear lived far from the cat for they stayed in touch constantly. They had many things in common, the same sense of humor and being friends was more than easy.

When the cat wanted to be more than friends suddenly the bear vanished. The cat was very sad in thinking that the bear had left her life. But one day the bear returned, apologizing for leaving her alone to what he had hoped would be a good life. She was hesitant but thankful to have him back in her life. Like no time had past their friendship was renewed and grew stronger. 

Through the years they loved, laughed, learned and supported each other as ever-distant dreamers. The bear was stubborn and did not want to ever make the cat unhappy or regretful if they joined their lives together. Their friendship was precious to them both. But the cat was also stubborn and believed that if they only took the leap to try that it would come true. 

Hoping to see each other again the bear and cat made plans to meet like they had before. But their plans did not come true. the bear felt discourages and the cat heartbroken. The bear was worried his country life would not be enough for the city cat. The cat was worried that her city personality was too much for the bear.

Years later when the cat was at her saddest and lowest, with the bear helping to keep her spirits high, she decided that enough was enough. The bear had witnessed and supported her through failed attempts to fill the hole in her heart where the bear would always be. No one had and no one would ever compare to the bear - to her bear. So she told the bear her feelings and asked the bear to stop being selfless and stupid. She told the bear that years of support could become years of love if they both agreed to try. The bear was touched, he had never imagined they could truly ever try but he wanted to. So they did, finally making their dreams come true together. News of their partnership caused many to give well wishes and excitement but others gave opinionated doubts. But the bear and the cat had hope and would stay strong together regardless of anyone's feelings but their own.

Again they made plans to meet. After 6 years being 1427km apart, of endless texts, skype and phone calls, with 7 flights, 1 bus and 1 train, their star crossed world's collided and the bear and cat reunited. It was long overdue and although they noted that they thought the other would be taller by now.. they would be together in obnoxiously cute love ever since. 

Now the cat and the bear can look forward to their future adventures with their big family of Brown Bears from the country and their small family of cats from the city.

"Aishitemasu 'sama."  

The End. 
Loosely based on all true events and feelings. Copywrite pending.

To continue following along the story.. click here!

Convention Survival: Solo Weekends

Sometimes you want to go to a convention so badly that you will do anything.. Even go alone! 

There may be times in the beginning or during your fandom journey that because of plans changing or work scheduling you have to go to a convention or plan multiple convention trips on your own. 

I had my first solo trip (and a trip that did not start out but ended as a solo trip) and wanted to make a blog giving some advice! It doesn't have to be a heart-breaking bummer.. going to conventions on your own can be as adventurous or as casual as you want to make it!

Plan your trip.

Don't panic. Hopefully you had enough warning to be able to create a rough draft of how you want your trip to go. If you have a rough idea to keep you calm than you won't feel so lost.

When do you want to arrive at your lodgings? How close do you want to be to the convention center(s)?

Are you staying for all 3 days, an extra day to take in the area before/after or just 2 days? 

If you are staying all day, for each day, you will need to look for restaurants in the area - the ones closest to the convention center(s) will be the most packed with lines.

Are you going to make friends, meet other cosplayers, do photoshoots, play games, meet celebrities, go to workshops/events or shop merchandise?

Don't be afraid of AIR B&B and Uber

Being in another city (or a new one if you've never been there before) may seem terrifying but that doesn't mean that you have to keep to yourself and walk everywhere so that you are not near any potential people or danger. 

Most Air B&B and taxi/Uber drivers know how busy (and profitable) that "convention season" can be so they are more than happy to give great customer service - some have even been patrons themselves and given me advice or recommendations!

Just breathe

If you had your heart set on spending the trip with a friend(s) it may seem awkward now that you are alone. You may feel it but I promise.. No one is watching you or feels bad for you because you're alone. Some people have even come up to me and said they were impressed and wanted to hangout for a bit! As long as you give yourself some things that you want to do, watch or try than eventually you will stop feeling like the odd-man out.

Cosplay alterations

This is a good idea to think of in general for every costume you create/buy but if you know you will be going to a convention or event alone then you will want to consider how easy or quickly you can remove pieces or all of your costume(s). 

Will you need to add extra pockets to carry your things?

Do you need to begrudgingly make extra cuts with zippers?

Can you easily breathe or should you add more ventilation holes?

Is it possible to make more pieces detachable with Velcro, buttons, snaps or loops?

Cosplayers are friendly - just ask!

When you are in a group of people who all want the attention of someone it is easier for someone to bravely speak up. But if you are alone and no one else has noticed or is near a specific cosplayer at the time than you will have to get their attention yourself. THIS IS OKAY! Most cosplayers know that whether their character or OC is widely known or more niche that sooner or later someone will want a picture or ask a question. Just remember... COSPLAY DOES NOT EQUAL CONSENT! Always ask a cosplayers for their permission or a picture, or a hug or anything else you want their attention for. 

Some cosplayers may be tired and on their way to take a break. 

Some cosplayers may be just starting their "wandering loop" and may be more willing to stop for you.

Some cosplayers are willing to share their tips, tricks and advice but some may not be..

Either way it's worth the risk of feeling a bit silly or embarrassed to just ask. A couple of my fellow cosplay friends are in my life now simply because I got excited and yelled at them for a picture (lol).

Take a walkthrough of the markets first before you buy anything

This is a good idea whether you are an "impulse buyer" or have enough will power to show restraint. Even if you want to spend money at every booth to support every vendor you should pick and choose what is most important to you at the time. 

Ask for business cards and social media contacts for any vendors that you still want to buy from that you may not have the time, money or arm space to do so.

Make new friends

This may seem tough to do especially since you do not have the confidence of already having friends with you. BUT most people go to conventions to connect with other like minded members of the fandom community so although it may seem daunting or awkward you should always try! It may end in a friendship or it may end in at the least a conversation that takes up some of the time you didn't have a plan for. And if enough people see you at conventions frequently enough than they start to recognize you and may come up to you on their own! It happened to me :)

Watch all of the performances

If you don't feel motivated to do much else than take advantage of all the performers and events that go on at conventions! Most weekends have workshops and classes, gameshows and fashion shows, parties/raves, musical and acrobatic performers and of course cosplay masquerade/contests. Going to an event or performance with other people is a fast easy way to break the ice.

Nagata Shachu is ALWAYS A MUST-SEE!

And a situation as simple as stopping to watch a performer, may turn into a great friendship! 

Especially when you get excited to finally meet T-K Entertainer from online videos, and he in turn got excited because he knew I was cosplaying as Shinjo-kun!

Important things to remember to pack:

- sunscreen & deodorant

- clothes for cooler or rainy weather
- contact lenses & solution
- bottles of water
- non-perishable snacks
- program guide book or at least a summary of things you want to do

- selfie stick

- rechargeable battery packs

- charge chords

- pass holder with lanyard

- cosplay emergency kit

This is what I keep in mine: tide-to-go stick, measuring tape, black & white thread with needle, sewing pins and safety pins, black sharpie, gold sharpie, Band-Aids, mini lint roller, mini scissors, magnetic sticky strip, black and red pen, crazy glue.

- Tylenol or pain relief cream - for all of the walking and/or posing

- GPS or map

* remember all your ID cards and a small enough wallet

- a back-up extra set of make-up

And when its all over... Don't forget to be proud of yourself!

To those who recognize themselves in the pictures, I want to thank you for your friendship & encouragement. Reviewing the pictures and memories I've had over my fandom journey so far has made me realize the incredible people I've inspired, who have inspired me and the smiles/laughs I've been able to give. I can't wait to continue doing all of these things and more into the future! Thanks friends!

What other things do you remember to pack with you? What other advice would you tell first time convention goers? Let me know in the comments!

A BIG feeling of Spirit for the Children

WHAT A DAY! I am truly honored, proud of & thankful for you Kingston!

Thank you to everyone who took time to come and visit the Halloween Party at Spirit Halloween yesterday! 

It was pretty nerve-wracking getting back into cosplay again after a 2+ year hiatus for most of us due to the current way of the world. But for the children anything is possible! It felt very rewarding and above all fun to do what I love the most.. making people smile. I'm glad most parents remembered who the X-men was and even the older children did too.

With your help we raised almost $200 for Spirit Halloween's Spirit of Children which will go to CHEO. 

All of us are honored you could come and have fun!

Your money will be providing, costumes, accessories, decorations, and most everything needed for a party as well as sensory and educational items, toys used for distraction during medical procedures, and much more.

A BIG thank you to our special cosplay guests and volunteers! Please feel free to share your pictures or fun memories with us! on Facebook & Instagram #proheros 

You can click HERE to go see more pictures!

PROheros is coming to Spirit Halloween Kingston!

We would like to announce that PROheros Cosplay will be at the Halloween Party at Spirit Halloween Kingston on Saturday Sept 25th 2021 from Noon to 4pm! Please come help fundraise money for Spirit of Children which goes to CHEO the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario! 

 #NubiaWonderWoman and #KingstonStorm can't wait to see you there, along with their friends Punishing Cosplay, Herbztiu Stunts & Cosplay and Toronto_dadpool! 

Please click HERE for more details!  

What is the Spirit of Children at Spirit Halloween?

Spirit of Children brings fun and funding to local hospitals at Halloween and all year round through monetary donations and hosting Halloween celebrations by providing, costumes, accessories, decorations, and most everything needed for a party including volunteers from local Spirit stores.

Our mission is to make hospitals less scary for kids and their families through support of the Child Life department at partner hospitals in our local communities. Funding has also helped partner hospitals purchase sensory and educational items, toys used for distraction during medical procedures, and much more. 100% of every dollar donated supports the Child Life department in our 147 partner hospitals across the United States and Canada.

Funds raised by Spirit of Children would not be possible without the outpouring of support from local communities. Customers ring the iconic purple cowbell when they donate to Spirit of Children at checkout.

We are super excited and honored to partner with such a great store and even greater cause! So bring your phone/camera and some cash!

PROheros of Kingston, Cosplay Ent. are YGK area Kingston local cosplayers who want to show the world that anyone can be a hero! Check our their weekly Multicultural Superheroine Feature every Wednesday! Find them on Facebook & Instagram!

Cosplay on a Budget

If you're just starting to jump into the fandom/community that is cosplay it can be overwhelming and intimidating. BUT it can also be exciting and rewarding!

I brushed on some of this advice with #KingstonStorm at this year's King Con Kingston 2021 during their panel discussion about 'How Accurate does a Costume have to be?' 

but I wanted to write a more in depth article giving my personal advice on starting cosplay with a budget (please plan a budget!)

So first of all what is 'cosplay' anyways!?

Cos-play = costume play representation of a character; either of original design or from a source of media. Although the costumes may look similar the cosplayer (performer) takes no direct responsibility or representation of that copywritten/trademarked character and the company that owns it’s conception.

Advice #1: Ask away!

Search cosplayers in your community - or random cosplayers on Instagram & Facebook. Seriously! It may seem intimidating to ask for help from someone who has been involved in cosplayer in 2 or 20 years but the reaction and answer should still be the same - we help & learn from each other!

I got started asking for advice from my hometown local icon Woodstock Spiderman. I asked about cost, shoes, materials, which companies were better quality and which were cheaper, I wasn't afraid to ask and he wasn't afraid to answer. If you don't ask than you won't know (and most within the community are just excited to have a new cosplaying friend to talk to/hanging out.)

I've asked The Girl with a Great Smile (a.k.a January/Jordan cosplay) a ton of questions and if I don't ask personally than I watch her videos to learn from her. And you know what? We became friends - I consider her my sensei. So even if it's just watching others and not talking (yet) it will always help.

Advice #2: Why are you cosplaying?

It's a funny question to ask, and don't worry if your answer changed through the years, but it is an important question to ask because it will determine the kind of materials you buy.

If you plan to cosplay for fun than the sky is the limit! 

If you plan to enter competitions/masquerades than you may want to consider buy more durable and expensive materials.

If you want to start entertaining at parties & events (individually, in a group or a company) than you need to spend more money on higher end materials or at least products to make your finished design look as best as possible. Children are innocent but critical at times - they may have seen another Spiderman before you and judge between the two. Also to join a group/company you may have requirements to meet to make sure that all characters are as authentic and consistent looking as possible.

Advice #3: Comfort vs. Accuracy

Once you decide why you are cosplaying, for whatever reason, you still need to consider how much you are willing to build (or buy) and how much you are willing to compromise.

Things you need to consider when making compromises should be:

- can you see, breathe, walk and/or sit okay?

- will you be able to get in/out of your costume by yourself or will you always need help?

- do you have proper airflow in your costume so you don't overheat?

- how comfortable will it be to wear? for an hour? for several?

- transportation? do you need to make your costume collapsible to transport?

- can you hide some pockets/a pouch or will you need "handler help" to hold important things like ID, passes, phone, wallet..etc.

Advice #4: Plan out your design

It's always good so that you can stay on track to plan out as much as possible what you want to make out of what materials, how big something should be, how things will attach and where things need to be like breathing/vision holes. Planning out your cosplay can be a full scale diagram or as simple as a list starting from the head and down to the feet. If you can't draw don't let it deter you from planning out what you need/want so that you don't get ahead of yourself or miss something.

Advice #5: Pattern everything

Remember that old saying 'measure twice, cut once'? Well it doesn't only apply to sewing! If you pattern out the shapes you are making then you can measure properly so that when you make the final piece it is the right size. Its not fun to waste materials because your first batch was too big or too small or won't fit properly. Also if you ever need to do it again or someone else wants to buy/use your patterns then you still have them in the future.

You can make patterns with anything available like construction paper (my preference) sewing paper, newspaper and a lot of cosplayers use plastic wrap then cover it in duct tape.

Advice #6: Make way for the one time buys

You may have already made budget plans for your materials but you also should plan for your start up tools. Buying things like gloves, work mats, safety goggles, respirator mask, Dremel, wood burner, soldering iron, wig stand, a UV resin lamp (or 3D printer) and model dress form for starters can but a big chunk into your finances if you don't set aside for it to begin with.

Advice #7: Emergency budget

For the sake of your sanity it is always best to try to put aside an emergency chunk of money for any unexpected happenings. Things like remaking an entire piece or buying a last minute product/material or even starting the whole thing over can not only mentally drain you but also your finances.

Advice #8: Math as an Adult

If you're trying to stick to your budget than it is a good idea to double-check a 'good deal when you see one.'  Sometimes clearance or sale prices are actually more expensive than what I could get it for at regular price and/or with a coupon. If you’re shopping online then always look at the shipping costs (and possible tariff/duty tax.)

Advice #9: Dollar stores are awesome!

Don't be embarrassed to buy materials or parts you need from dollar or thrift stores. Even cosplayers that have been crafting for years or have sponsorships still use sale/deal items to save on finances. And sometimes you find really cool or authentic looking things! I buy most of my EVA foam from the dollar store (they're sold as "camping mats" in the summer all rolled up.)

Advice #10: Halloween is not just once a year!

Just like shopping at dollar and thrift stores take advantage of Halloween stores and seasonal aisles in 'big box stores.' Wrong colours can be painted over, sequins can be removed and stitching can be taken out. If you find something you need or like than it can always be changed later to fit into your costume.

Advice #11: You do not have to build it all..

Just because it is your first cosplay or you are still new to the community do not think it means that you have to do ALL of the work. There is no clear cut margin of you MUST build it all - you can build, print and buy pieces and parts however it fits into your comfort level and budget. Of course if you are planning to enter competition/masquerades then it is better to practice and enhance your skills so that you do build as much as possible.

Advice #12: Watch other cosplayers

Search the hashtag #cosplaywip - meaning work in progress. Again I'm serious! There are tons of cosplayers out there that journalize their creation progress on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube and many post their patterns for people to use/buy. If you are stuck then try googling the character you're creating with 'cosplay' behind it to see what others have done to help get inspiration or tips.

Advice #13: Don't be afraid to ask for help

If you are running low in your budget or just having a hard time finding what you need/want you shouldn't be afraid to ask to borrow from family, friends or other cosplayers. Sometimes we get so excited that we buy multiple or in bulk so extras can happily be given. Don't be embarrassed to ask for a pair of shoes or a belt.

Advice #14: Reduce, reuse and recycle

It may be discouraging or disheartening at first but recycling or reusing your cosplay parts can sometimes come in handy. If you are running low on storage space but want to continue creating new costumes than sometimes you have to give up older costumes (a fun way to say goodbye is with a final photoshoot before you start to take it apart.) Or again if you are having problems finding the pieces or parts that you need you will sometimes realize that you already have it in a different costume. Along with the Girl with a Great Smile fellow community member Shoestring Cosplay does an amazing job at creating cosplay on a budget with recycled and reused materials.

Advice #15: Take your time

Unless you are building a cosplay in time to go to a specific convention (yay con crunch) than do not be discouraged if it takes longer than you anticipated. Life happens.. burnout happens.. Sometimes you need to take a break from a project in order to prioritize other things and that is okay.

Advice #16: Level up!

If your cosplay does not turn out 100% like you had planned, whether it is your first or your 100th costume, the great thing about cosplay is that you can always upgrade pieces/parts or the whole thing later (reduce, reuse, recycle.) I've found that the community gets more excited seeing 'glow up' improvement when you post how proud you are of yourself then with the initial design sometimes.

If you have any other advice you think should be included in this list, or have any questions about cosplaying please feel free to leave a comment!

Additional Advice: Create a Cosplay Emergency kit!

These are the things that I keep in my kit:

- white & black thread each with their own sewing needle

- one red & black pen and one sharpie permanent marker

- sewing pins

- safety pins

- laundry detergent to-go pen

- bandages & gauze

- a mini measuring tape

- a lint roller

- mini scissors