VegasCon 2014: Day 3

Sunday was a very bittersweet day. We were still reeling from our amazing day with the J's. Once again I barely got any sleep because the realization of how much my moment with Jared meant to me hit me and I broke down and cried. Tears of joy and just being overwhelmed with how much he went out of his way to be so kind to me and make that moment special for me.

Getting ready was also a little sad that day because we knew it was the last time. I hadn't planned a specific outfit for that day and I just kind of put it together, but it actually ended up being my favorite one (Jim Michaels liked my scarf!)!

We went downstairs to get our wristbands once again. Then we went back to Starbucks for breakfast. Chad Linburg was actually sitting at a table in the corner and I wanted to go talk to him and tell him how much I enjoyed his but he was of course surrounded by fans. We had a nice, relaxing breakfast though. Reflecting on yesterday's events and sharing our excitement for the day ahead. 

We had one last welcome from Rich and EWB. It was amazing how much energy they still had on Day 4. I can't say enough great things about those guys. They were the heart of the con, they kept the energy up and made the whole experience even more enjoyable, I LOVE THEM! 

The first panel of the day was Guy Norman Bee. (Guy Norman A, and C wee so disappointed Sweet Johnny didn't choose them.) He is one of my favorite directors on the show, so it was really cool to sit in on. He gave great insight to the behind the scenes and was a super nice guy. I had a chance to talk to him afterwards and get his autograph, I told him I loved his episodes and he said "that means a lot, because we tend to do this in a bubble and don't always get to hear that." This is just another amazing example of how everyone within in the Supernatural family makes you feel like family.

Then was the ever adorable Felicia Day. A fan had made a compilation video of other fans thanking her and highlighting her work. It was a beautiful video, and Felicia got teary eyed when she came out. This made me cry too.

Felecia was super sweet and funny. She was also, like everybody very inspiring. My favorite thing she said was in regard to a question about being a "fake geek girl" meaning that if you were new to something you couldn't possibly love it as much as someone who had been invested for years. She said "I think that's bullshit." She explained that the "geek community" or and subculture was a place for outsiders and that we should be accepting of everybody. I've had experiences with other "communities" and not feeling welcome in them, feeling like I wasn't "good enough". Supernatural is one place that is not like that at all. Felecia was delightful and so sweet to all her fans. You could tell she was so thankful to be there.

After Felicia's panel we had a break. So we decided to go back to the vendors room. My mom wanted to get a picture of Jensen and she needed my help picking one out. She got a gorgeous picture that she'll get him to sign later. :) 

Then it was time for Misha's second panel. I honestly feel like I know Misha at this point. I saw him so many times over the weekend and he just has a way about him that makes you feel at ease. I wasn't planning on taking a lot of pictures because I had taken them the day before and I wanted to save some battery for Mark and Mark. But when he said "I have a special guest, you may know him from his work on the small screen..." I knew immediately I had to capture it. West came out on stage and everybody awwwwed. We started screaming "We love you West!" Misha said "What is going on? They know your name. That's kinda weird huh?"

West was completely adorable and of course ended up stealing the show. Misha also pointed out that Victoria "was NOT sitting in the front row wearing a pink tank top!" They also had friends visiting and it was really sweet that they were both there to support Misha.

The next big event was Mark Sheppard and Mark Pellegrino. These guys were so much fun. They have amazing chemistry together, even though they were never on the show together.

Both of them are also absolutely charming in person. Mark S. walked around in the audience, and even found Osric in the front row and sat on his lap proclaiming "I found Kevin!"

The audience agreed that they would love to see Crowley and Lucifer fight against each other for reign over hell (where else do you have discussions like this besides a Supernatural convention? haha, I love it.) And Mark P. said "I'd kick his ass."

Once again, these guys were great. Like everyone, that had a way of making you feel comfortable. They were very candid and funny. 

After Mark2 was the grand finale, the most wild, random and crazy panel of the whole weekend. I have just one word for you...Sebastian!

I don't think he answered a single question. He would start to but then get so far off topic, he would then go back to the person who asked and say "I'm sorry, what was your question darling?" There was Matthew McConnuhey impression "alright alright alright!" And a lovely song entitled "I Like My Girls" accompanied by dancing and running through the aisles of course. There was also song inspired by a flower crown a fan had that Sebastian then put on. "My Flower Crown" was basically a slowed down version of "I Like My Girls".

He also went on about his theory that he could be Jesus come back to earth. "What if it was me? What if it was me and you didn't know it?!" It ended with a shirt being ripped off and a guitar "solo" with some help from Sweet Johnny. Haha, Sebastian I love you. 

After Sebastian's panel we had a farewell from Rich. It felt like the end of summer camp or something. I was so sad I wasn't going to be able to hang out with these guys the next day. Before we finally said goodbye, Misha came back on stage and spoke for everyone we he said to Rob "we are all so fucking happy to have you here." Rob went on to explain that he was so happy to be back and could "feel the love from every single one of you." Misha then started the cheering of "Rob Rob Rob Rob!" Again, watch the video. It was a beautiful moment that I'm so happy I could be a part of.

The absolute perfect ending to my VegasCon was getting Misha's autograph. I was getting it for my friend Brantlee who asked me if she bought the ticket if I would get it for her and of course I said yes!

 We had a while to wait because Misha still had to do photo ops, and of course there were A LOT people in the photo op line. At this point it felt surreal that the con was over. Everyone waiting sat around in the panel room which really felt like home. I sat on the floor while charging my phone and reflecting on the truly awesome and amazing weekend I'd just had. I was exhausted by this point but still excited for Misha. 

They finally told us to start lining up and even though I'd seen him several times in the past two days I got a little shaky when I got in line. Misha came out and sat down at the table. I know he was exhausted but he took time to talk to every single person. When I got up there I said "Hi." He said "Hi." I told him I was so excited to finally meet him cause I'd seen so much the past two days and I did this little dance saying "I get to meet Misha!" just...why. But he smiled. He held out his hand and we shook hands. He asked how the weekend had been. I told him it was awesome and that it was my first time. He asked if I would do it again and I said "definitely!" I told him "Thank you." and he winked. He was so approachable and adorable. 

Then as we were walking down the hallway on the way to dinner we ran into Jim Michaels. I had to stop him and asked him for a high five because he was so awesome. He said "sure, I think you guys are awesome!"  He complimented my scarf and then my mom reminded him that I had an idea for a Season 9 DVD extra for a tour of The Bunker that he replied to. And he said he thought they did it, so we'll see! 

I can not tell you enough how nice every single person I met at VegasCon from cast, to crew, to fans was. If you have never been to one, you have to go. It was a life changing experience for me. I feel like I am part of something now. And something so special. Family was the theme of the weekend. And I truly feel like I am a part of the Supernatural family now. All of us that were there are bonded and will always have the memories of this amazing weekend. It may have been my first con, but it will not be my last. Cons are a part of my life now as much as Supernatural is a part of my life. SPN FAMILY FOREVER!

VegasCon 2014: Day 2: Part 3

After our photo ops we were still in disbelief. We caught up with Angie again and shared our experiences. When retelling my Jared story this time I found myself being a giddy. We squeed and had a little fangirl moment before we made our way back to the panel room for the J2 panel.

If of the panel room seats were ever empty, this was the one time it was packed. We all sat with anticipation. There truly was magic (or hair product ;), right Rich?) in the air. I was really excited about seeing Jensen because I hadn't yet. And while seeing Jared in person was the most amazing thing ever, there is something about seeing them together.

We were once again welcomed by the awesome Elastic Waste Band. "Tango" (aka Rob) said "alright we've still got a few more minutes but here's one to get you in the mood. He and the guys began playing "The Boys Are Back In Town". Everybody started cheering, and amidst our clapping and wooing the gate on the stage that all the guests came out if began to open. Jensen emerged, jumpy and excited, hitting a cowbell with a drumstick. Everyone kept cheering and Jensen continued to dance around on stage. But Jared still hadn't taken the stage yet. I turned to my mom and we both said "where's Jared???". 

EWB kept playing but changed the lyrics in the chorus to "the BOY is back in town..." and we were STILL waiting on Jared. Then FINALLY Jared made his entrance. Beating on a tambourine, he emerged from the gate, slapping his butt with the tambourine and making us all laugh. They both hugged Rob and the rest of the band and looked so happy to see them. They were all smiles and fun.

(Note, this is not my photo. I somehow didn't catch a photo of this moment. Thanks to Karen Cooke Photography.)

Everyone was cheering like crazy and the boys went for a big finish on the song, jumping up and landing on the final note. Then Rich came back on stage and said "Tambourine and Cowbell, everyone." I love the rapport the entire cast has with each other. They all get along so well, and it's a beautiful thing to see. I had watched so many panels on YouTube and I couldn't believe I was actually at one. I had dreamed about actually sitting there and looking at them with my own eyes. I'd imagined how beautiful they'd be in person. And all of my expectations were exceeded. As Jared said in the panel actually "I hate when people answer a what's it like question with "I can't describe it you just have to experience it."", but you do. The excitement, the energy, the feeling that this is surreal but at the same time you know it is reality. And the unbelievable beauty of the two of them together in person. I can not even begin to describe how much more beautiful they are in person. TV does not do them justice, truly.

Jared was walking around waving at the crowd. He put his hand over his eyes to look out at us. It's the sweet little things like this that they do that make you feel like they care about you just as much as you care about them, and they do. 

Jared welcomed us all with his signature "Hi guys." He went on to say it was so good to see us all tonight and that he didn't get to say that too often. He said "I feel like a rockstar." Jensen said to this "well you're in the presence of rockstars!" gesturing to the band. And he continued "Laaaas Vegasss...we love Las Vegas!"

Jared asked if they could turn the house lights up "just a little bit, just to make it sexy." They did and Jensen said "oh it's sexy." Jared asked who's first time it was. I along with my mom and several others raised their hands and cheered. Jared officially welcomed us to "the crazy Supernatural family" and said we were stuck now "there's no getting out." This was a beautiful, heartwarming moment. I truly felt like a became a part of the SPN family this weekend and in that moment.

Then they started taking questions. I noticed that when pondering questions, Jared becomes very introverted, thinking inside himself while Jensen seems to think outward. It was an interesting observation and almost a reversal of their personalities. I won't go through all the questions, because you'll get more out of it if you watch it than by me describing it. And I honestly didn't remember them all until I watched it again on YouTube, I was so mesmerized by the boys that I missed some of them. 

One of the cutest moments I caught was when Jensen was talking about the rift between the brothers and gestured to Jared saying "and I mean what a jerk." To this Jared took off one of his shoes and made a pouty face. Everyone awwwwed and clapped. Jensen just had this look on his face like "really?" but he couldn't help but smile and laugh a little too.

One of the most inspiring tidbits I took away from this panel was Jared's answer to a question about Sam feeling like a black sheep, which is one of the biggest reasons I relate to Sam. Asking if he always felt like that and if he still felt like that He explained that at some point in their lives everyone feels like an outsider but that it was his job to make sure Sam felt comfortable in his own skin. No matter what situation, and that the right people will understand you. Have I mentioned that I love Jared? Because I do. So very much.

One of the funnier moments was when a fan asked "If you, Jared and Jensen were gods" Jared got this smirk on his face and said "well". Everybody laughed. "Continue" Jensen said. "What would we have to do to get you to come?" J&J along with the crowd lost it. Jensen got up and started posing. "Bonjour, I have arrived." I really love seeing Jensen get silly. Jared acted disgusted and said "I'll tell you what wouldn't make me arrive, is that!" Haha I love these guys.

There were so many great moments, too many to list. Seriously watch the panel posted by someone who broke the "Rules and Regulations". But one of the most amazing moments was when the boys started rapping "Ice Ice Baby" referenced by Jared earlier, EWB started playing it and the boys looked at each I the and started laughing. Jensen picked up his microphone and said "come on" to Jared. Jared said "I'm not gonna do it!" But eventually they both started rapping, Jared made it up to the first chorus and then started banging on the cowbell with Rich.

(Note, not my photo. If this is yours let me know and I'll give you credit.)

It was an awesome, amazing, and inspiring panel. If these were not already my favorite boys in the world, they certainly are now. I fell ten times more in love with them after being in the same room with them. I will never forget the magic of seeing them in person for the first time. I wish I could relive the hour I spent with them over and over again. 

The Road So Far: My Introduction To Supernatural

On Friday March 29, 2013 I watched Supernatural for the first time in my life. I had always loved Halloween, horror movies, and paranormal stuff, so I wasn't quite sure why I had never watched it. But I kept seeing promos for it on TNT and I thought "I should watch it." I kept seeing people post about it on Instagram and Pinterest and I thought "I should watch it." Then one day I started looking at pictures of Jared Padalecki and I thought "I SHOULD WATCH IT!". Then one morning I woke up and saw that it was on. I said "I'm watching it."

I'll never forget the first episode I watched. It was Hell House, the 17th episode of Season 1. Within five minutes I was into it. It had such a creepy feel and I loved the dynamic between Sam and Dean. The prank war between them was the perfect introduction for me. When Sam turned the music up in the Impala and pointed to himself "what? me?" I was like "he's cute". And then when he super glued the beer bottle to Dean's hand I decided they were adorable. They were cute, they hunted ghosts, and they had a hot car, I was hooked. I watched three episodes that day and had pretty much fallen in love.

I told my mom that I fond this great show that I loved and she said "oh good, I'm glad." The next Monday I got up to watch it and my mom was home. She watched casually with me at first, but at the end of the Season 1 finale "Devil's Trap" I could tell she was a little more invested saying "Well now they're all dead on the side of the road!" We continued watching into the week. I gravitated more towards Sam while she gravitated more towards Dean. By mid season 2 I had become emotionally invested in these characters. I realized it was more than just a scary show. I came for the scary, but stayed for the brothers. Soon I was buying DVDs and trying to get caught up to Season 8 on Netflix. I was following cast and crew members on Twitter and countless Supernatural blogs on Tumblr.

Supernatural had become a part of my life. Within two months I'd made it through Season 4. Around the same time I discovered Supernatural conventions. I was amazed that there were whole weekends dedicated to the show where you could see and actually meet the stars. I was curious if there was a con in Las Vegas so I looked it up and there was. Actually, we had just missed it before we started watching the show. But, one for next year was already scheduled. I immediately wanted to go. I told my mom about it, and to my surprise she was actually considering going! My mom has always been very practical and somewhat of a home body in the past, but recently she has been stepping out of her comfort zone. We kept talking about it, and eventually decided we were going. At that point it was 8 months away, but I was still so excited. Before we even bought our tickets to the convention we bought photo ops with Jared and Jensen. When we were ordering my photo op with Jared my heart was beating out of my chest. I couldn't believe that I was going to see Jared Padalecki in person, let alone stand beside him, and touch him. Then we ordered our convention tickets and it was official: we were going to VegasCon!

Now we are caught up on all past seasons, we survived our first season finale and are awaiting the Season 9 premiere. VegasCon is five months away and we are counting down the days. We're driving down crazy street and enjoying the ride.

VLV 17

I'm very sad to report that I did not make it to Viva Las Vegas this year. I was hoping my move and the Rockabilly Weekender would happen at the same time. But it just didn't work out that way.

It's one of the things I look forward to most every year, and I'm crushed that I missed it. Especially this year, being 21 I would have been able to attend everything. And now I have to wait a whole year before I can go again. But I guess that means I have a whole year to plan. I really want to make VLV 17 amazing. I'm promising myself right now that I'm going to do EVERYTHING. And do it full out.

Anyway, I'm hoping to get things moving again here soon. Happy Easter everybody.

Elvis And Las Vegas

Today I wanted to talk a little bit about Elvis and Las Vegas. The two are practically inseparable. If you were to ask someone to randomly name things associated with Vegas it is inevitable that Elvis would come up.

He is widely known as the most popular entertainer the city has ever seen. But his first attempt at Vegas wouldn't lead to this conclusion.

In April 1956 Elvis played Vegas for the first time. 21 years old and still getting used to his newfound stardom he was booked in the Venus Room and the New Frontier Hotel. He was billed as "the atomic powered singer" but his run was hardly a success. Some might even call it a flop.

But Elvis fell in love with Las Vegas anyway.

It took over a decade for Elvis to return to the Las Vegas stage. But when he did, he was a bigger success than anyone could have imagined. Headlining the brand new International Hotel in August of 1969 he played sold out shows nightly. And now he is a permanent Las Vegas icon.

It just makes me think. What if Elvis had never tried Vegas again? What would the city be like now? I probably would never have had any interest in it at all. That's how much Elvis inspires me.
And I think hey, Elvis's first attempt at Vegas didn't work out like he expected, but look at his second. Sometimes you just have to try things again.



A Little Less Conversation...

A LOT more action! I started taking action last night. I applied to two jobs in Vegas. And I applied to another one today. It's the first step. It's a small step but it could lead to a great opportunity. I am feeling positive and feeling accomplished! Like Elvis says "I'm tired of talkin'". It's time to make this happen!

 

 

 

Back To Vegas...

As of last night I AM officially going back to Vegas for Halloween! For two very important reasons.

1. To tour/register for school (I don't know if I mentioned that I was looking at another one, but found one that I think is much more suited to me and what I want to do.) And to look at apartments/cars.

2. To celebrate Troy and Kady's wedding! They are getting married this coming Monday, at Disneyland and it's a very small group of guests. I was invited but couldn't make it. :( BUT they are having their reception on Halloween!

I can't think of a better way to celebrate my favorite holiday, in my favorite city. I am so excited! But it hasn't really hit yet...and it's coming up soon! I'll be busy busy busy these next (lucky!) 13 days! And HOPEFULLY this will be my last trip out before I will once again call Las Vegas HOME. :)

Keep On Dancing

I don't want to give up dance, not completely. I don't define myself strictly as a dancer. I don't even define myself as a dancer first and foremost. But it is a part of me. I feel like my whole life it has been a struggle for me to feel like I was good at dance. I was told I did not have the right body for it. I was told I needed to lose weight. I was told I wasn't working hard enough when I was working my ass off.

There was a time in my life when I was in love with dance despite the criticism I was receiving, but as time went on it took a toll on me. And I didn't love it anymore. I did it, hating it because I was still being cut down. Then I discovered musical theater. And I found out I WAS really good at that. I felt confident doing it.

So I decided to pursue dance as a career, I was going to college for it in the entertainment capital of the world, I planned on making it my life. But then, I was discouraged from it again. I wasn't what they wanted. I was told once again I did not have the right body for it. I was told to lose weight. I was told I wasn't good enough and discouraged from pursuing a performance career in dance. After all my friends moved up a level in their classes, I was still in the first level. I felt embarrassed and extremely unconfident. I truly felt like I was a terrible dancer and just needed to give it up. I did not want to return to the program, and felt like I should not pursue dance any further.

But it's still inside me. I have the urge to perform in my blood. I crave the spotlight. I want to be up on a stage in front of an audience. I don't think I've ever had the opportunity to do the kind of dance I really want to do and think I would be good at. But I want to. I really want to explore my options as far as dance goes. I want to find a way to do it. MY WAY. I want it to make me happy again. I don't want dance to be something I "used to do" or something I "was never really good at". The last few weeks it's really been on my mind. And I know it's in my heart. 

The Journey Back To Vegas: Part 2

IT IS OFFICIAL! I WILL be back in Vegas April 4-7! just in time for Viva Weekend! and my best friend is coming with me!

I feel like a miracle has happend! Lately I was really feeling depressed, like I was never gonna get back but then all of a sudden it all started coming together!

I called my school to set up a date to visit and gave April 5-15 as my options, she said the 5th so I took it as a sign and went for it. Then I called up my best friend to see if she could go and she got off work and got tickets and OMG IT'S ALL COMING TOGETHER!

Seriously, it couldn't be more perfect! I feel like it was MEANT TO BE!

As of Wednesday we have EXACTLY 2 WEEKS! so I'll be very very very busy getting everything ready. Stay tuned for updates! I AM SOOOOOO EXCITED!!!

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That's The Way It Is.

Up at almost 2 in the morning watching Elvis: That's The Way It Is.

He's rocking out Suspicious Minds and I just got an overwhelming feeling for how much I love him, how much I love Vegas and how much I can't wait to be back.

Thank you Elvis. <3

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Viva OR BUST!

As of today VLV ( Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender) is a month away! And that's also my goal date to be back in Vegas. I DO NOT want to miss it this year! I had the time of my life last year!!!

Also I would really love to get "re-established" in Vegas again before starting school. At this point it will be May before I can start, so I'd have about a month to get back into the swing of things.

I'm setting this goal for myself and I want to MAKE IT HAPPEN! I neeeeeed to be there!!!!!!!

Viva OR BUST!

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This Time Last Year...

I was packing to come home for Thanksgiving break, I hadn't seen my mom or sister or friends in 4 months. When I came home everyone was so excited to see me, I felt so special and so loved. It was nice. This year, it's just like I'm kinda there, even to people I haven't seen in a while. It makes me sad. And I guess to a certain extent I feel the same way. I know I chose this for myself, but still. It just really makes me wonder if abscense...or distance does make the heart grow fonder?  

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