2012 - 2013: Making Good Art, and Making Life an Adventure

For me, 2012 was a year of keeping steady. In 2011 I started several projects, including my Professional Writing program, so 2012 was all about finishing those projects and passing my first year. I’m happy to say I’ve accomplished many of my goals, and even exceeded my own expectations. 

Looking back on it I’m more than happy with what I’ve done so far, but 2013 is going to be all about pushing it even further, and taking more risks. Last year I was so focused on just making sure I could finish things that I avoided too much excitement with my projects. This year I’m going to make more, make different things, and do things with them I’ve always been afraid to do.

Source

 

I didn’t make a list of goals or resolutions last year, but I think if I could sum up my direction last year, it would be “Make Good Art.” That’s a quote from a commencement address from one of my favourite authors and personal heroes, Neil Gaiman. You can read the whole thing here. Last year, I wanted to make as much and be as proud of it as possible, and I think I accomplished that. Ultimately, I think the best art anyone can make is something they can be proud of.

So here’s a quick recap of what I did in 2012:

• - I finished my first year of Professional Writing with straight A’s both semesters, and finished the first half of my second year. 
• - Finished my first graphic novel.
• - Finished the second draft of my novel.
• - Completed my Spineonline blog.
• - Wrote scripts for two more graphic novels.
• - Started this blog.
• - Went to some awesome parties (very important)
• - Made good stuff for my portfolio.

In 2012, I made:

• -          3 comics
• -          7 scripts
• -          8 short stories
• -          2 poems
• -          5 essays
• -          3 interviews
• -          1 letter to the editor
• -          1 (second draft) novel

This year, I’ll be finishing my second year of Professional Writing and finally graduating from college. After that comes the daunting task of getting a job and finding a new place to live. This is going to be a huge change for my life, but it’s an adventure I’m ready to go on! This year, I want everything to be an adventure. I want to do more than just make more stuff, I want to make stuff I’ve always been afraid to make, and put it out there in ways I never have before.

So to sum up my direction for this year: It’s Adventure Time.

With Leah P!

My goals for 2013:

• -          Graduate
• -          Finish the final touches on my novel
• -          Finish two more graphic novels, completing the first arc of my comic
• -          Send out at least 1 short story to a literary magazine
• -          Find a place to live outside my home town
• -          Get a job and make some money

In 2012, I want to make:

• -          10 short stories
• -          5 poems
• -          5 comics (2 graphic novels in all)
• -          1 completed novel

In addition to that, I’m going to do more interviews, essays, and make more cool posts for this blog. But every time I make something, I’m going to make sure it excites me, that I’m not just playing it safe, and that every day I’m making life a new adventure.

Gothic Sanctuary: An Interview with Schoolcraft and Orphan Grinder

This is my full feature that I did for class, with the edited versions of the Schoolcraft and Orphan Grinder interviews. 

When I was a young, impressionable teenager, I learned about the glory of alternative music. With the help of the internet I listened to bands that never had, and most likely never would be played on the radio. Punk and Goth were my personal favourites, and in high school I discovered bands like Nine Inch Nails, Joy Division, and the Misfits. The internet was my major source, through social media and through music downloading I found what would one day be my favourite bands. This music shaped who I am today. 

                The world of music has changed so much since then. Music downloading seems to be more of a rule than an exception, and bands have to find new and creative ways to get noticed. According to some people, the internet has made this easier; anyone can upload their music and put themselves out there rather than having to be discovered. But that also brings the danger of too many voices crying out for attention. The Goth music scene has considered itself separate from this for a long time. It used to be that they were the ones getting by underground, through tape trading, shows in tiny clubs, and word of mouth. Now the internet has created a worldwide underground for every genre. It seems that today, even the weirdoes, with our black clothes, piercings, tattoos, strange hair, and even stranger music, don’t stand out the way we used to. 

                Just a week before Halloween, I returned to my roots to watch a show of up-and coming Goth bands. The Café Dekcuf bar in Ottawa was perfectly lit for the show, meaning it was nearly pitch black, and the stage was decorated with pumpkins. Every band sounded a little different. Goth can have the operatic vocals, soft piano, harp and strings of Schoolcraft, headed by Lindz Riot, the solo act of Goth/metal band Mary and the Black Lamb. Lindz is a beauty with long, flowing black hair. I know that’s a cliché, but there is seriously no other way to describe it. Her songs paint a picture of beauty in darkness, an angel in a graveyard, on an epic scale. 

                Outside the graveyard, there is the cyber-industrial, dystopian wasteland where Orphan Grinder lives. Started by Riley Eichler and Aaron Wallis, they recently welcomed members Myke Guerin and Ethan Moseley, formerly of Promonium Jesters and Adaptive Reaction. Orphan Grinder uses computers as well as guitars, drums, and even trash cans to create a unique industrial sound that’s perfect for tearing it up in the mosh pit. And I guarantee, there will be a mosh pit at one of their shows. 

Riley Eichler and Aaron Wallis of Orphan Grinder

                I talked to both of these bands, and got some of their opinions about the Goth scene today, the music industry, and how those things connect. What I got was two very different bands existing in the same world, doing things their own way. 

I started with touring. Both bands have traveled across provinces for their shows, but started in Ontario, with Schoolcraft from Oshawa and Orphan Grinder from St. Thomas. How does a band find venues to play at?  

“At first we had to book venues ourselves. Word travelled, and we started to get invited to play shows.” Said Orphan Grinder.  I asked them if they thought bigger, more mainstream bands had it better touring than they did, and they talked about the ups and downs. “Touring can be awesome, but it can also suck. You don’t get much sleep, and it can be expensive. We don’t have a road crew.” As for the more mainstream bands: “At least we don’t hate each other. We’re all still friends.”

For Schoolcraft, Lindz Riot had experience touring with a band as well as solo. I asked about the differences in size for a solo act like Schoolcraft, versus a band of four people like Orphan Grinder.  "Honestly when Mary and the Black Lamb toured last year it was quite the clusterfuck with three cars and everyone wanting to have their own schedule. It has been so much easier with just me and Scotty B. (Her drummer) We also have a lot more fun not having to worry about where everyone else is and if they are gonna show up on time. Soon we will have an additional string player, but that's about it. Still a small set up for the stage."

I asked them about their specific genres of music, not just the Goth genre but their own individual sound. What did they think of the Canadian Goth/alternative music community today? Orphan Grinder was sure of their identity in the world. “Our artistic vision is ‘fuck you.’ Everything out there sounds the same. Our sound is angry, crunchy. We don’t fit into labels.”

Schoolcraft has collaborated with some other bands for their first EP. "I think it’s a great group of people to work with. There are some select cult groups who aren't too social, but that's ok. I just admire their nice clothes from afar. It has dwindled down the last 5 years. I would like to see more Goth/alternative acts in the scene, but that will come with time if people decide it is a creative outlet for them again."

Then came the question of labels. Today the music community seems to be divided about their usefulness, and I got two different perspectives from Orphan Grinder and Schoolcraft. Both bands have EPs currently available, but Schoolcraft is signed to Arcane Records, while Orphan Grinder put theirs out independently. It was two very different processes I wanted to know more about.

For Orphan Grinder, “Our approach has been DIY since the beginning. The EP was a slow process; we recorded it ourselves, all in a home studio. New technology makes it easier, makes the equipment more affordable.  For bands today, an iPhone is easier than 16 thousand dollars of equipment at a recording studio.”

                While for Schoolcraft, "Mine took forever because I had 2 producers fall through. I started the project 2 years ago this month and only got recording in January of this year. We started with piano, then orchestral structuring and programming. That part was done completely over the internet because Daedalus (of Deadalean Complex) lives in Quebec City and driving nine hours is quite time consuming and expensive with gas. So Skype really helped on that process. Then we went onto harp tracking and then cello tracking with Kitty Thompson of Johnny Hollow, who is a treat to work with. Finally we did the vocals and all of the tracking was done at The Recording House in Scarborough with Sean Gregory. The hardest part was waiting on the mixing and mastering. Even though it took a month it felt like forever!"

I wanted to know their opinions about labels, how they can help or hinder a band. “Being signed to a label makes no difference to us. We don’t fit into labels. They hinder you more than they help. We like it better having no rules; we wouldn’t listen to what a label says.” Said Orphan Grinder. But would they ever sign to a label, if it was offered? After some deliberation among the band, they decided.  “We’d let a label help us with manufacturing and distribution, but we can record it ourselves.”

Schoolcraft, who is already signed to a label, gave me a different perspective. According to her, being with a label has helped. "In many, many ways. First starting off with saving my sanity. It's nice to have another head in the game on the same level as you. This way the work load is taken off my shoulders and because of it I have been able to focus more on my writing and image. This was hard to do in the past because I was also managing my projects."

Talking about labels and EPs, we turned to the topic of CDs versus downloading, and some of the questions plaguing the music industry today.  Are CD’s dying out? Orphan Grinder doesn’t think so right now, but maybe in the future. “CD’s are better for data storage than downloaded songs. For bands, they’re more of a networking tool. In terms of sales, CD’s are better than shows. But in the next 5 years, CDs will be gone.” 

And what about online piracy? Everyone has an opinion about it, but I wanted to see it from the point of view of a band. Schoolcraft says, "I am on the fence about it. If it helps me get my name out there for the first release then sure that helps. But once it’s my third or fourth release it would be nice to see some funds for touring and more releases down the road. The fans just can't expect me to reach them or get my music out faster if they aren't supporting the cause financially. I have found stems for torrents on the EP already with great tags in them. I also understand that in some countries it is impossible for some fans to order music online or even access visas or make pay pal accounts. I do not mind them getting my music for free. As long as they show up to my concert once I make it out there. That's more important to me."

                Orphan Grinder knew exactly how they felt about it. “Steal our music!” They talked about the internet, and how it’s helped them and other bands today. “The internet has made things easier, but it also means more competition. It’s helped us find like-minded people. Everyone can benefit from it, if they do it right. Record companies don’t see it that way; they just want to make a profit. People will pay eventually, if you put out a good product.”

                I asked Schoolcraft how she used the internet with her music. "I think it's because of the internet that I have gotten as far as I am. That being said, I have good friends who believe in me and have helped me out. Also you can't forget Facebook and Twitter! It's all about who you talk to and network with. I am a strong believer in writing good music because that is what will travel the farthest."

So, overall, how does Orphan Grinder feel about where they are? “Overall we’re happy, but it would be better if it paid more. (Laughs.) We have to have fun now; we’re too old to keep waiting.”

 

Schoolcraft talked about her plans for the future. "This Christmas holiday I will be entirely committed to writing and forming my second full length release for Schoolcraft. I am very excited about this and am itching to get started, but I first have to finish up with school and make sure the first EP still gets some decent press and exposure. I have a different vision for Schoolcraft now: a darker, heavier one. The first EP was some songs I needed to get out of my system that were mostly sad ballads. I had a rough year last year and have climbed over man hurdles and mountains emotionally and mentally. My next set of songs really do reflect my stories from that. There will be an addition of a new instrument which I think will complete my sound and set me apart. Wish me luck because it’s going to be an interesting whole new experience for me." 

EP Cover by Gogo Melone

What draws me to Goth as a genre is the variety within it, not just in sound but in attitude. I think Orphan Grinder and Schoolcraft show this perfectly, giving me two completely different perspectives on music today. When I began these interviews I had some of my own opinions, but learning from them has given me better informed opinions. And of course, I had a great time at the show. I thoroughly recommend either of these bands for anyone who loves music and loves a good performance. Goth music may live in the crypt, but the crypt could always use more bodies.

For more info about Schoolcraft, visit her Reverbnation, or Facebook

For more info about Orphan Grinder, visit their Reverbnation, or Facebook

December 6th and the White Ribbon Campaign

For a school assignment I was given a template for a newsletter and asked to write about a charity/NGO of my choice. I chose the White Ribbon Campaign, a Canadian started campaign to end violence against women. For my newsletter I was asked to provide information about the organization as well as write a number of articles about it.

Today is December 6th, the National Day of Remembrance for Violence Against Women. The White Ribbon Campaign begins on November 25th, and ends on this day. In Canada, this day is meant to commemorate the victims of the Montreal Massacre, which is the event that first sparked the campaign. This is usually the day the WRC and other charities have their campaigns set up, or hold demonstrations or memorial services. I first became involved with WRC in highschool, when my school would hold memorials. Ending violence against women is a very important cause to me. I think the WRC is a very important campaign because not only does it support women's programs and shelters, but it also educates men and gets them involved.

I wrote my newsletter for school as an assignment only, to learn how to use a template and to write about and for a charity/NGO. My newsletter is not endorsed by the White Ribbon Campaign.

 

 

 

 

If you click on the images, then right click "view image" you should be able to see them full size.

For more information about the White Ribbon Campaign please visit their website at http://www.whiteribbon.ca/

My Letter to the Editor got Published!

So for a school assignment I was required to write a letter to the editor and send it in. I really didn't think anything would come of it, but the National Post actually published it online! I've never been professionally published like this before, so this is very exciting. It's also about an issue (breast cancer) that's very important to my family and friends, and I've received a lot of support from them on this, which is really the best thing ever. I couldn't ask for more.

The original article I was responding to was featured online, and it was about a woman who had suffered from depression following a double mastectomy. A lot of it came from body image issues and some ill-treatment from society following her operation. That combined with some of the breast cancer campaigns I'd seen around my school and at home, and in the past working with my mom in campaigns myself, inspired me to write this.

You can read the original article I was responding to here.
You can read my featured letter here.

But in case that link expires, here's my letter. It's been edited by Paul Russel, the Comment editor at the National Post. Since this is a letter to the editor, it's got a lot of opinions in it. As always, I am open to discussion in the comments section!

Reading Thandi Fletcher’s heartbreaking article about the psychological effects of mastectomies got me thinking about the way breast cancer treatment is viewed in Canada, and especially about the way it’s supported. Having worked at breast cancer support charities myself, I’ve seen quite a variety of ways charities are handled. And while I’m sure every single one of these charities, fundraisers and events has good intentions, there’s a very dangerous problem with putting all the focus on a woman’s breasts, and their value.
I’ve seen far too many of these fundraisers advertised with phrases like, “Save the boobs” or “Support for boobies!” etc. The problem with that is, we’re not trying to save the boobs — we’re trying to save a woman. Mastectomies are a reality some women undergoing breast cancer treatment have to face, and when we put the emphasis on her breasts rather than on her character, we contribute to the poisonous society that sees a woman’s body as something belonging to society rather than to her, and to the psychological scars women face. Women who bear the scars of breast cancer should feel triumphant about beating a disease and living another day, instead of ashamed of the battles they’ve faced.
Leah Powell, Ottawa

So, I want to extend a big thank you to everyone who read it, and everyone who's supported me. But more importantly I want to extend an even bigger thank you to all the women among my family and friends who inspired me to write it. They are the some of the strongest women I know.

And I just handed it in a little while ago, so I hope I get good marks on this assignment! 

Interview with Lana Hicks, Tattoo Artist.

photo taken by Lisa Christine

       Lana Hicks is a tattoo artist based out of my home town of St.Thomas, from her very own studio, Lady Unlucky Tattoo. I first experienced Lana's work when I saw it on my friends - she came highly recommended. St.Thomas is a town with at least four tattoo studios (the last time I checked, and that I know of.) I knew when I planned on getting my first tattoo I wanted a place close to home, with an artist I could get to know and trust. I needed to be able to contact my artist before and after my tattoo, and someone who could deal with me being a nervous Nelly and possibly bothering them with thousands of questions.

        With Lana I got more than I asked for, and I am eternally grateful for it. I went in for my consultation and was immediately put at ease by the friendly, cozy atmosphere of her little in-house studio. It was set up simply with a chair, and all the complicated machinery set off to the side. I knew I wouldn't be crowded with other people staring at me or machinery constantly buzzing before it was my turn.
  
        Lana is a sweet, friendly lady who is of course, covered in tattoos. So there's no doubt she knows what it's like to be in your place as well as her own. She happily answered all of my questions without a moment's hesitation, and seriously gave me some advice and rules for my first appointment. A week or so later she e-mailed me her sketches for my design, and we exchanged back and forth over that. Being an artist myself I was worried about imposing on her art or her vision - I know what it's like to work with someone else on a piece of art and what kind of process it can be - but at the same time I was sure about what I wanted and how it would look - since it was going to be on me forever. Lana was completely understanding and flexible during this process, and welcomed and encouraged my opinions, the perfect attitude for a tattoo artist.
  
        My first appointment didn't go exactly as planned, but just helped to show Lana's wonderful personality and endear me to her even more. On a hot summer day scheduling conflicts left me without a ride to my appointment and no one to come with me. I rode my bike there - bad idea. And being alone I became so nervous and scared I couldn't go through with it - I was totally ashamed. But Lana was very sweet and comforting to me and easily rescheduled my appointment to go with a friend's so not only would I not be alone, but I would be able to see another tattoo in action before I got mine. She explained the process to me down to the details, not sugar coating anything but not trying to scare me either, just an attention to detail and honesty.
  
      When I told Lana I would most likely be bothering her with questions long after my tattoo was finished, I don't think this is what she had in mind. But I thought about all the questions I had, and all the other people I've known who've wanted tattoos but knew nothing about them. Many people are still intimidated by tattoo parlours and the people that work in them, even I was pretty nervous, even though I've known people that worked in parlours and are heavily tattooed. Lana was the perfect pick to answer some questions about tattooing, the industry, getting a tattoo, and of course, reality TV.

    Tell us a bit about your life in the world of tattooing. How did you get started?
I started when I was 17 purely out of curiosity. Back then tattooing was not what it is now. There wasn't a tattoo shop on every corner and it wasn't so accepted and mainstream. I didn't get back into tattooing until approx. 8-9 years ago. I did a second apprenticeship then started back at it full time and have been doing it every day since.

    What sort of advice would you give to someone trying to get into the industry?
It's not easy. Getting an apprenticeship is hard and getting through it is even harder. Everything you do during that period is important and for a reason, and no it's not fun or glamorous, but it has its purpose. It is a 24 hour 7 days a week job, not a 9 to 5, so be prepared for it to be your life.

    Are there any sort of art techniques or schooling you would recommend to someone interested in tattoos?
Apprenticeship! There is no other way. These so called "Tattoo Schools" are bogus. No, you cannot learn how to tattoo in two weeks. It's a long learning process and you never stop learning.
    
    What kind of art are you interested in besides tattoos? Tell us about your other projects.
I am a painter, renovator/interior designer. I make one of a kind Art Dolls and I used to do pin striping. I recently completed a book and designed the logo and T's for a female Roller derby league as well.
   
  Who are some of your favourite artists? In tattoos or any other kind of art.
Hmm, there are so many. Top favs in the industry would have to be Nico Hurtado and Joe Capobianco and Victor Portugal for starters. In other mediums, Greg Craola Simkins, Brian Viveross, Sylvia Ji, David Stoupakis, and Natalie Shau are just a few of my favs.

   What inspires you? What makes you want to put pencil to paper, or needle to flesh, as it were?
That's a tough one. I am always looking for something new to inspire and motivate me. I think the love of art of course but when you do it day in and day out you are always hunting for inspiration in everything.
    
    How about some advice for potential clients? What should someone do to prep for their first tattoo, or any other tattoo for that matter?
Take your time and really know what you want. It's a life long commitment. Find the right artist for you and never let price be your determining factor. You get what you pay for.

    What should someone think about when choosing what they want to get as a tattoo?
Why do you want it? Is it something you can live with forever? Placement! Think about what you may want to do in the future, because a tattoo can interfere with that as well.

    What should someone keep in mind when looking for an artist?
Look at their portfolio, look for client feedback. Make sure it's someone you feel comfortable with and who's willing to do a consultation to talk to you about your ideas and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
    
     What makes a good tattoo parlour? What should people avoid?
Atmosphere first off. If you feel uncomfortable when you walk in imagine sitting there for a few hours. Are there people just hanging around? Cleanliness of course! Ask questions about sterilization practices. If they are reluctant to answer your questions you have to ask yourself why. Look for portfolios.
   
    Be honest. What do you really think about all those tattoo-related reality shows, like L.A. Ink or Ink Master?
Hate them for the most part. They give a very unrealistic portrayal of how this industry works. No you cannot get a sleeve or back piece done in a couple hours, and it takes longer to create the design than the time it takes to have a cup of coffee. Those people on those shows have applied and submitted their designs months in advance. They did not just walk in off the streets. The worst was TLC's "Tattoo School." It was the most reckless, irresponsible garbage I have ever seen! The only plus is that they have helped tattooings popularity. It's more accepted and common now. It has also helped people finally see it as an art form and what's possible beyond roses and stars and tribal and flash on the walls.
  
    What do you say to all those naysayers who ask, “What are you going to look like when you’re older?”
Older but more colourful! I'll be wearing my story with no regrets.

      When I finally got my tattoo, Lana's gift of gab really helped me out by keeping me distracted. We chatted about everything from school and work to comic books and movies. So I knew when I went to her for an interview she'd give me some good, full answers, and I was right! I hope you've enjoyed this interview and found it informative. If you're London/Elgin/Middlesex area and are considering a tattoo, go to Lana!

My tattoo!

(I originally did this for my Writing for the Web class, and it was posted to my class blog at Spineonline.)

Decorating a Dorm

        I’ve spent the majority of my college years in a single room – a dorm room. I like living in Residence at my school because it’s just across the parking lot, so I never have to go very far or long to get to class, and it has essentially everything I need within in reach. As much as I like exploring, when I’m at school I’m very busy pretty much all the time so being able to get things quickly and easily is very important.

           

           But living in a dorm can come with drawbacks too. First thing’s the lack of room: I get my own room as well as a kitchenette and a bathroom, so I’m actually lucky. I’ve had friends who’ve had much less. My parent’s house is also far away, which means that when I come to school every year I can’t pack much, only the necessities. My first year, I spent the entire summer worrying about what to bring, what I would need and what would take up too much room and just be useless. Now that I’ve had some experience, I think I finally got it right, and found that balance between what I need and what makes the place I have to live in for 8 months feel like home.

          

            So, here’s a mini tour of my dorm!

 

          We’ll start with the wardrobe side of my room. Storage space is very limited in dorms, you most likely won’t get shelves or dressers, and there probably won’t be much room to put any extra furniture. I get two drawers with my desk, which I use to put things like sweaters in, big things that take up a lot of room. For little things like socks I have these storage cubes. Though I kind of wish I had pink ones now to match my colour scheme… If you’re that kind of person, picking a colour scheme or ‘theme’ for your dorm can help a lot in making things look put together. I obviously like pink. Even my luggage matches – unintentional, I swear! I use my luggage as extra storage space and impromptu furniture.

As you can see, I was given a TV with my dorm, which is very nice but I’m not a TV person, so I had my dad get it off my desk and out of the way for me. I also have this fuzzy rug that I love. Very nice in those cold mornings rolling out of bed and going to class. I could write a whole post on my wardrobe alone, and I probably will, so I’ll leave the details of that for some other time.

Let’s talk about my bed. Blankets and sheets and stuff can be expensive, but it’s worth it to buy yourself some nice stuff when you go to school. Leave the old worn blankie you’ve used forever at home. And always buy an extra set of sheets and pillowcases, and an extra warm blanket. I have one my grandma knitted for me, but it’s not in this picture because it’s not cold enough for it yet. My sheets and pillow cases are actually an amalgam of different sets I’ve owned over the years. Oh and I have a fuzzy blanket to match my rug. I never bring stuffed animals, so I have to make up for the fuzziness somehow. I don’t recommend bringing stuffed animals or figures or anything either, but I know not everyone has the willpower I do…

  

Here’s the desk side of my room. The desk came with my room, as did the lamp and the phone on the left corner. Being a writer and a drawer, I need a lot of desk space as well as places to put my materials and whatnot. I’ve tried to divide my desk up into two sections, one for personal stuff and one for work stuff, with open space in the middle for my computer and for my note/sketchbooks.

If you’re lucky enough to get a lamp from your dorm, it will not be enough. At least not for reading, writing, or studying. Get another desk lamp that gives really good light. And get some organizational things, because if you’re like me, you’ll try to organize on your own and in a week everything will be in a giant pile. Right now, all my school stuff is in the middle, and all my comics stuff is in the two standee things on the sides. I also brought some books from home – every year I try not to because my teachers usually give me enough to read, but this year I didn’t have any fiction courses so I brought my own. And there are some pictures of my family.

On the other side is the personal side of my desk. That’s my jewellery box, makeup bag, and my hair stuff. Underneath my desk I keep my printer and my art kit, with all my drawing materials and extra notebooks. There’s my Zombies calendar above them – let’s see what else is on my walls.

   Above my desk is my “inspiration board.” Over course every wall is an inspiration board to me, but since I do all my writing and drawing at my desk, these are all images relating to that. As you can see, I’m working on something relating to churches. And I’m not working on anything relating to Nirvana. I also have a flyer I found on the ground for a show featuring a band I like (but didn’t get to go to, sadly,) and my autographed Adventure Time poster. The cross-shaped bunch of pics is on the wall at the end of my bed. I have another fashion related inspiration board beside my closet, featuring some of my style icons, so I always have ideas for what to wear. And finally, above my bed, I have glow in the dark stars I got at the dollar store. I love them so much.

I didn’t take any pictures of the kitchen or the bathroom because they’re both pretty boring; I mostly just try to keep my stuff out of the way instead of making it look “stylish,” hahaha. But, I will show you my fancy mug collection. I believe everyone should have a huge collection of drinking apparatuses. This is mine so far – and you can tell I took it after doing the dishes because my Toxic Boy mug is on the shelf – in the other pics I was drinking tea out of it! My grandma gave me the pink one on the right, it has cats all over it and it was my favourite one to drink out of when I was little. And in front are my dinosaur salt and pepper shakers.

Well, that’s the tour! Now I can go back to living in the mess this place usually looks like.