Jessi Awesome

Days 26-28

2011-11-29T08:14:00.000-08:00

For our Auctions, we have:

Crime and Terror, Graphic Novel Signed by Steve Niles & Scott Morse

and,

4 Pieces of Handmade Jewelry Created by Artist, Singer Monica Richards

And here is Eron's updates for the past couple of days:
Day 26 & 27

"Goodbye hospital, next stop Glendale!:
Sorry for the lateness of these posts, as Lola has mentioned, it has been a stupendously busy couple of days! After much grumbling, they made her very happy by pulling her feeding tube at last — making the transition to solid food was a bit rocky, but her love of the egg sandwiches that her mom has been smuggling her for breakfast has made things easier. I was skeptical about her use of jelly on said bagel sandwich, but hey, Callie loves it and I even had one and it's pretty good. At Callie's request, last night I brought some of my secret risotto (I'm sure I make legions of italian grandmothers cry every time I touch arborio rice) mounded with fresh spanish goat cheese and loads of roasted purple heirloom carrots and fennel. I even got her Chego tonight, but forgot the bowl I ordered had one ultra spicy tingrediant in it which she bit in to and nearly cried. Thankfully we were able to avoid that for the rest of the meal though being a klutz, I did accidentally dump a flood of ice water on her (sorry Callie!)
After the accidental cold shower, were were able to quickly get her shirt changed — which shows even more that every day there is a little bit more progress. Though to be fair yesterday was a bit rough since they had her on so many kinds of painkillers and other drugs to remove the feeding tube and catheter. She mostly just slept, but who else besides a few crazed shoppers do anything but relax on the day after Thanksgiving anyway. The doctor, probably also recovering from turkey-induced stupor, was in jeans and a sweater, and Lola asked for his ID — only half-jokingly I'm sure ;) As they were working, Callie was so high she occasionally sang to the doctor. Because singing during surgery is how Callies roll! Michelle and Will dropped by yesterday too while she was still a bit loopy from the drugs, and they had an amusingly non-sequitur conversation that I couldn't even begin to follow with my sleep deprived brain. I brought her Black Friday cheese from the Silverlake Cheese shop as a treat for being so hard working - and she scarfed down a huge chunk of sharp cheddar the moment I cut it open.
Though she loves watching the Venture Bros. (which she calls, "The Brock Sampson Show,") I am officially, "No fun anymore," because I continue to make her do exercises and reading before she can watch any TV. Lola turned to Callie this morning and went, "You wouldn't want Eron as a Dad would you Callie, he's so mean!" And Callie gleefully agreed. But the biggest news is that all this hard work has payed off! —They have officially recommended her to go directly to an advanced acute physical and occupation rehab center in Glendale! As of Sunday or Monday she'll have graduated up another major step! She has been very worried about the move, but she's worked so hard that the doctors are constantly being shocked by the pace of her progress. Lola and Tucker have been doing the most amazing job taking care of her (and I've been grabbing the late-late shift) and along with solid food, now she can do a good amount of the work to get dressed and go to the bathroom, and can even touch her thumb to each finger on her right hand. I know she's worried about the move to the rehab facility, but with all of you cheering her on I know she'll do amazing there. One day really soon she'll be the one to write these updates!"

Day 28
"Yes, I think this is a hybrid day [again] but at least for us I'm a bit shaky on the timeframe. I'll start with the less good news, which is that after an exhausting but pretty smooth move to the Glendale Adventist acute rehab facility, at some point early in the AM, Callie decided she was going to get right on trying to get better and and attempt to go to the bathroom by herself, which resulted in her falling out of bed and me taking an early AM quick drive to calm her down. They did CTs to make sure everything was okay, and when I got there I asked, "Does anything hurt?" and she sheepishly told me, "Only my pride." It wasn't a great way to start the move and her dark mood, compounded by sleep deprivation, continued for much of the morning. Tonight Lola is staying with her doing a pajama party :)
Day 28 Pt. 2:
All of the negatives aside, that morning I had handed her a cup of yogurt for breakfast, and rather than waiting for me to help, she grabbed a spoon with her right hand and with only a small amount of hesitation managed to eat the whole thing by herself. Note: she couldn't even move that right hand a week ago! Similarly today they set her lunch of meatloaf, veggies and salad down in front of her and she just dug in (mostly using her left) and ate the whole thing. The only item she needed help with was one impudent [and very under-ripe] cherry tomato. After that we took advantage of her newfound freedom from regular hospital life and had her hop in a wheelchair and hang out outside on the balcony for a while.
The new rehab facility is exactly what she needs. They do tons of work every day — with a bare minimum of one session of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy every day (and sometimes more!) Most of the male staff is doing handlebar mustaches for Movember, so the hospital looks a bit like a Silverlake bar. Today and tomorrow are evaluations for the team to fine tune the intensive program they want to pursue with her. For PT, they have confirmed there's plenty of work to be done so that she can move around for the next month without using her right leg (which needs four more weeks to heal up). Speech therapy was a breeze, since today was the testing for chewing, eating and swallowing (which can be tough after these sort of injuries). The whole session was prefaced by Callie telling the Speech Therapist that her mom and brother were bringing her Umami Burger. The test ended two minutes later when Callie downed a bite of each of her lunch and drank some water by herself. Test passed!
Aside from that, Callie thinks her Occupational Therapist completely awesome (who incidentally sports the most epic of the Movember stashes). They are actually having us diagram the tricky parts of our apartment so that they can recreate the setting, such as the height of the steps, in the rehab center. Toady was a bit rough, but she is completely free of all invasive lines and her medication count is going down all the time! Tucker and Lola are staying at our apartment in downtown now. We still have a long way to go and probably more than a few more rough days where she doesn't feel like she's making any progress, but keep on sending her your love and sooner than we will realize, she'll be better!"

I just realized

2011-11-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

that I haven't updated this blog since Friday.

First off:
Black Dahlia 1 & 2 Paintings by Stephanie Han, auction is still going on! 25 for two beautiful paintings? Greatest deal!

We still have Callie Auction 3 going
[LINK 4 Pieces of Handmade Jewelry by Kirsten Thompson]
. It's some very pretty bulk jewelry!

We also have STEVE NILES (creator of 30 DAYS OF NIGHT and my personal favorite, GOTHAM AFTER MIDNIGHT) who was so generous to give us awesome books to auction off!

Monstrous Collection Graphic Novel By Steve Niles, Artwork By Bernie Wrightson
is up!

Also, if you're looking to keep up with all the auctions, my store page is here.

Here is how Callie has been doing this week!

From Eron, Days 21-23:
"Day 21

... Today was a big day again for Callie — She has now officially graduated from ICU to a normal hospital room! Lola has been amazing in making sure she gets the best care possible and now we're working our way to rehab. There are many steps until then, but as Callie put it best to Ange, "When can I have lunch?" Speaking of speaking, as of yesterday they had her trac capped, but in the three hours between when I left in AM and Lola showed up in the morning Callie managed to perform minor surgery on herself and sneakily remove her entire trac apparatus. The doctors were shocked, but she seemed to be doing well enough that they just went ahead and left it out.
When she gets cold she now has a fleece Hello Kitty hat that she can wear, though woe be on those who try to put it on when she doesn't want it on. You will be met with the darkest scowl you have ever seen, though a cute scowl it still is. While Mau (her cat) would just get in trouble being a room with so many cords and things to gnaw on, Callie's great friend Katie crocheted a faux-Mau-kitten, complete with heart-shaped-spot for Callie to ejnoy while she's in the hospital. We've posted up all of the photos in her room again and there are enough that they are starting to cover the walls!
Callie is also getting to the point where she is ever more aware and starting to get agitated at not being able to do small things. She constantly pleads to go home. Today, one of the nurses was about to give her some medicine and as she was prepping it Callie turned me and went, "I think we should leave soon." This aggitationat small things she can't do is a normal part of the progression of healing but it's still tough to watch. However, being that she isn't in ICU, now is the time to shower her with cards, stuffed animals, flowers and anything else you've been saving up! Just let me or Lola know and we'll make sure they make their way to the room. Thanks as always for the amazing support, prayers and positive thoughts you're sending her way!"

Day 22:
"It's amazing how fast she is progressing — Today she managed to eat real food for the first time - to be fair, it was all pureed mush, but still! She most assuredly liked the mashed potatoes and gravy better than whatever the weird green mush was, and way better than the strange gray-brown mush. When I told her that Shing was going to bring her Chego once she was better she very loudly went, "CHEEEGGOOOO!" Additionally while her mom was taking care of her she managed to sit in a regular chair for almost three hours. It wasn't easy, but she toughed it out. Lola, who had been doing a great job taking care of her while I try to sneak work in, even got her standing briefly.
One of the most shocking parts of the night was when Jenny was about to leave. We were talking with Callie and somehow she mentioned she knew it was Monday. Which was a major jolt because both Jenny and I had to think for a moment to realize she was right and we didn't know it. Aside from giving orders like she is at work, (she told Jenny, Han and her mom to go to the stockroom), she has also rediscovered swearing — not that I blame her — they had to change a very heavily taped line, and anyone who has taken off a band aid can only imagine what it must feel like to have three layers of biggest band aid you can imagine ripped off! [I always joked that one of the reasons she was attractive to me was that she was the only woman I know who swore in text message so it's good to see her sense of humor is still there.]
She at one point picked out a song on her own iPod and said something to the effect of, "I'm just picking something random." Earlier when she was more awake she had picked out one of her favorite playlists with her mom! The other major news for the day is that they think she'll be moving out of the hospital to rehab within a week. She's already starting to move her right leg way more then ever before, propping it up while she sleeps. It's hard to believe she couldn't even really do more than nod her head yes a week ago! The nurses and doctors in the new wing are really spot on — very pro. Keep sending you love and prayers for a fast and full recovery!"

Day 23
Callie's Mom: "Miracle day! Callie got scared this morning and ask Melinda the nicest nurse EVER to call me. The nurse told me the situation that she was awoken abruptly by the nurse doing vitals. Callie gets on the phone and says, " Mom, I'm scared, where are you?" I said I'm just down the street in a hotel I'm going to throw on clothes and I will be right there. When I got there15 min later, her and Melinda.were chatting. Yep, chatting. She is talking about everything and yes, she isn't sure of some things, but she is talking and making a whole lot of sense. We called Eron, Celeste, Loretta, Katie, Iris. We have a miracle!"
Eron:
"I'm going to deviate from my usual updates for this one. It's big. For those of you who missed my exclamation point filled update this morning, Callie, with her mom's help, called me at 7:20AM to make sure I was up for work and to tell me she loves me!!!!!!!!!!!! To backtrack a bit, last night Han and Jenny visited and as Jenny was leaving, she remarked about what a breakthrough Callie was undergoing, knowing that it was Monday and all. After that she because extremely agitated, crying about her haircut, begging me to take her home, and pleading to let her stand up with repeating "This is so stupid, this is so stupid." It would have been very difficult to be in the room for anyone, but was heartbreaking for me.
She got worse and worse, and without me noticing, more and more aware. After a couple hours of trying to help her out, calm her down, hugging her and trying not to despair a slow change came over her. Very slow. So slow that it fell under my conscious radar. [To be honest I didn't post or text about it because I didn't know what was actually happening until I got the phone call this morning.] Eventually she settled down a bit asking a million questions, trying to figure out where she was and what the hell had happened to her. That should have been my first clue — she couldn't even talk a week ago and she spent two hours pelting me with tough questions. Eventually her nurse came in. Callie turned to her and went, "I'm sorry, what's your name?" Upon receiving, "Melinda." She said, "Hi Melinda, how long will my catheter be in?" I was baffled.
As the nurse, who was truly amazing, went about her business, she and Callie increasingly joked about making me watch Sex in the City 2, and how they would make sequels, all as bad as that movie. For the rest of the night, she chatted with me, asking to see photos from the wall. She wasn't totally coherent, rambling & repeating nonsense occasionally and she did express a love for morphine numerous times, but she was talking and talking and trying to figure out where downtown was from the hospital and asking questions about the accident and her injuries, and complaining about the hospital food. I gave her fairly honest answers and aside from a few tears, the only weird thing was that she seemed to be missing certain basic words, like "bed." Instead she was using archaic terms like, "pallet" and "cot." There were still plenty of moment os weird non-sequiturs, but I worked really hard with her to help her put her syntax back together, often struggling over the sentence ten or fifteen times with her.
She eventually got really tired and I turned the lights off in her small room. She laid down in the dark and told me she loved me and missed her mom and how she wished her right hand worked correctly. She then whispered, "Tell everyone I think I'm finally awake." After which she spent about 15 minutes saying things I couldn't make hide nor hair of. I left feeling like I lucky yo have seen a little bit of a passing glimmer and didn't make too much more of it. To get back to the phone call: Holy hell I was wrong that it was a fleeting moment. Today, she had the nurse dial and she called her mom to come to hospital around 6AM. That's damn right, she talked to her mom on the telephone to come over from the hotel. Last night wasn't just a flittering moment of lucidity. Though very tough times and massive re-learning is to come, along with more tears and more joy, Callie is awake and starting to become Callie again."

Go, Callie, go!

Callie Auction 3!

2011-11-18T07:51:00.001-08:00

This is the 3rd Callie auction! I'll have the link by this afternoon (PST)!
A balk collection of beautiful handmade jewelry! You could keep these for yourself or they'd made great holiday presents! The money goes to a great cause too. :)

You are bidding on four pieces of handmade jewelry by Kirsten Thompson. All proceeds will go towards Callie Rogers. On Halloween weekend, Callie was driving and her car was hit by a drunk driver. She is currently in a coma at UCLA's Intensive Care Unit. Please visit Jessi Awesome's blog to learn more about our fundraiser to help raise money for Callie's medical bills.

"I'm donating to Callie because I know how hard it is to deal with having a loved one be ill or injured, and want to help her and her family. <3s geekgirls."

First piece: 16" necklace made of glass beads of varying sizes painted in gold and blue hung with silver plated lobster claw clasp.

Second piece: 17.5" necklace made of purple glass beads of varying shapes and sizes, finished with a goddess pendant and a lobster claw clasp.

Third piece: 21" necklace with white bone dragon pendant with green and black beads. lobster claw clasp.

Pair of earrings: Large blue beads with a raised pattern, offset by black and silver beads and hung from stainless steel earring hooks.

Callie Update Plus Auctions

2011-11-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

Okay guys!

Marie Lu's LEGEND is still up for grabs here: Signed Advanced Copy of Legend by Marie Lu, Hardcover

And we have a new auction up: Black Dahlia 1 & 2 Paintings by Stephanie Han

We will VERY SOON, have another auction up! It's jewelry!

Also, Steve Niles was so gracious to donate SIGNED BOOKS!

So you can bid on some goods and help a wonderful person out as well!

This is what Eron has to say about Day 17:
"So today I thought I wouldn't have much to write about except for the difficulties of making the transition to Kaiser. In fact, the transition seemed to take so much out of her that Lola and I were a bit down since she seemed to be rather worse than the day before. However, and I don't want to downplay the massive difficulties still facing Callie, tonight I was hanging out, reading a book and occasionally talking to her about the day while she slept as I waited for them to kick me out to do a CT scan. After a bit she opened her good eye up, and as I talked more telling her about her mom, Mau and her friends she got more responsive. Finally, even with the transport team in the room, she was mouthing short questions and comments, including "I love you," which cumulated with her having the wherewithal to ask, "What happened?"
Not only that, but because I am terrible at lip reading and the team was helping me out trying to figure out what she was saying, we had to ask her to repeat her questions and she could! I told her she was in a bad car accident because a drunk driver hit her and that she was in unconscious for about two weeks. And because we are both giant Futurama nerds and I was so elated, I blurted out, "You know, like in that Futurama episode with the space bees and Leela was in a coma." Other than my dumb comments, the transition was really hard on her. She spent most of today very sore and sleeping. Lola and I spent most of the day trying to get caught up on everything and come up to speed with the new group of doctors working with Callie. Even with that amazing moment tonight, which I'm so thankful for, it's just a tiny step in a very long processes, so keep cheering her on!"

Go Callie, go!

2011-11-14T23:12:00.000-08:00

We're going to have another auction up in about a day or so. This time it's for two beautiful paintings of dahlias by artist Stephanie Han.

Eron has this to say about Callie on Day 15:

"Today was a day of waiting — [Callie's mom] spent most of the day with Callie, or at least the portions that she wasn't in an MRI or asleep. I spent most of the afternoon in traffic. They did get a chance to give her a ninja hair cut finally, so now she has a cute blonde buzz cut. The biggest news of the day, and the biggest cause of the waiting, is that she is officially stable enough that they are ready to transfer Callie out of the UCLA Neuro-ICU. That was supposed to happen today but Kaiser wasn't ready. We still don't know which hospital she is going to, but we're pretty sure they will make the move tomorrow.
We got her a portable iPod-dock music player so wherever we go she can have some fun music to speed along her time without the Pandora ads and it's insistence that everyone should listen to Radiohead. Right now she is fast asleep, but a bit earlier she was quite responsive even to the nurses, nodding, "Yes," or grimacing (a version of, "no" we're thinking) to answer basic questions. Specifically I can tell you: her head hurts, she would like some more pain medicine, and I am scruffy. She's also doing okay on the longer term tests of letting her breath on her own and they keep increasing the duration she is off the machine.
Because of the breathing tube she can't talk even if she was able to, but for the first time I think she mouthed a few words; "It hurts," [of course], but then she smirked and squeezed my hand so I think her sense of humor is relatively intact, then she fell asleep. Her right side is still given her problems, but the doctors told us that would take a lot longer to come back to full. Thanks to everyone for the fun reading recommendations for her — I've got to make a bookstore run when I get the chance to grab a few options. I'm not totally sure how I'll tell if she likes the book I pick, but maybe she'll use her mitten to box me in the head again? Whoever anonymously got me the album from Amazon to listen to while at the hospital, you rock, thanks! Thanks to everyone for all the thoughts and wishes for Callie! I can't wait until she's well enough for folks to visit!"

2011-11-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

First off: The auction for Marie Lu's LEGEND is up for grabs here. It's pretty awesome that you're getting a signed, hardcover before everyone else can get their paws on it.

Secondly:
Eron told me I can update my blog with how Callie has been doing, so the first bit is from Callie's mom, and the second is from Eron. We're on Day 14 of her being in the ICU:

"Eron and I have moved into a rhythm of life in 6 ICU. Today she had 2 periods of an hour each of being totally off the ventalator and she did just fine. That is another landmark! 2 hours will move to 24 hours per day, quickly. She holds my hand all day, she seems to save the pillow bashing for Eron. :) Go Callie!!! She is in some periods of pain and discomfort and it is heartbreaking. She sometimes nods when I can identify the pain location. The millions of cuts she received are healing and left behind are scabs, which itch her, and tons of bruising. The right side is still not working but we hope in time it will come around. Keep those positive thoughts coming her way as we hit the 2 week mark. Love to everyone. Thanks for the great comments and support."

"Today had a couple of big steps for Callie - first off, as Lola covered already, they did the first official steps of weaning her off the ventilator. They had her off the vent for as long as an hour on a couple occasions and she did fine! Next, they also got her for a bit in to a "Cardio Chair" which is basically a smaller bed that can be made to fold upright in to a chair. It was her first time sitting in two weeks and it wasn't very comfortable for her, probably because of her pelvic fractures, but she managed to sit up for over an hour and they are going to take moves toward having her in the chair slowly but surely over the coming days.
We're still not sure when they are going to transfer her out of the ICU, but the thought is within the next week. Lola or I will let you know when that happens. Part of the reason I'm just now typing this is that she was fairly awake this evening and seemed to be a bit restless, as I suppose someone would be being in a bed for two weeks and not able to talk. I asked her if she wanted some music on and amazingly she responded with an emphatic head nod, so I put on a Pandora channel that I made for her when we first started dating called "Radio Free Caledonia" and maybe it was just the morphine, but for about an hour before she went to sleep she really seemed to be enjoying it. Tomorrow I'm going to grab her iPod and swing by Best Buy and grab a portable iPod dock.
As always, she's had really good care at UCLA and while the moments are fleeting the brief bits of time where she seems to be increasingly aware are make me giddy. We'e got a long road ahead, and I can only hope I'm strong enough to do what I need for Callie. I think I might start reading her a book soon — Probably something fantasy and light filled with bad puns, as she occasionally likes. (Piers Anthony and Terry Pratchet ahoy!) I know this year has been full of changes and adventures for everyone, I haven't always been present to respond everyone in a timely manner, but just remember Callie I all wish you the best with everything that is going on, both the exciting new stuff and the tough times!"

Once again, the auction for Marie Lu's LEGEND is up for grabs here.

First Auction: Marie Lu's LEGEND

2011-11-12T14:47:00.000-08:00

Young adult author, Marie Lu, personally donated this advanced, hardcover copy of her upcoming, LEGEND and proceeds goes directly to our friend, Callie Rogers. On Halloween weekend, Callie was driving and her car was hit by a drunk driver. She is currently in a coma at UCLA's Intensive Care Unit. Please visit Jessi Awesome's blog to learn more about our fundraiser to help raise money for Callie's medical bills.

LEGEND has already been optioned by CBS Films to be adapted into a movie. Get your signed copy before the book comes out on November 29, 2011!

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

To learn more, visit www.marielu.org and www.legendtheseries.com.
Press: http://www.usatoday.com/life/books/news/2011-07-18-marie-lu-legend-dystopia_n.htm

This auction will be going up on Monday, November 14th, 2011!

Thank you all!

Jessi

Concluding Callie Care at Comikaze

2011-11-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help the title's alliteration. :)

Callie Care boxes were originally set up at League of S.T.E.A.M., D.J. Kirkbride and Top Cow's tables, but The League of Extraordinary Ladies also wanted one too!
(Good thing I made four of those boxes that shed glitter EVERYWHERE. I think Callie would like this, haha.)

I wasn't expecting any money. I just hoped people would notice the teal sparkly box covered with hello kitty stickers, read my note on Hello Kitty paper about Callie, and would drop some of their change in as a means of support.

I didn't expect what had happened.

I'm giving out a huge thank you to
D.J.,
Jenn,
Sarah,
Sheyne,
Dennis,
Josh,
Leonard,
Sam,
Jenny,
and Vince.

All the above have links to them, and if you could check out these wonderful people, please do.

D.J. told me that this one girl had one of her legs on this heightened scooter type thing, he asked her what it was for and she said that last year she was in a really bad car accident and that she is now in rehabilitation for walking (hence needing some assistance). D.J. told her about Callie and how it was great to see that this girl went though a similar ordeal and is now feeling better.
She gave five dollars.
I saw her later on and I gave her a big hug, thanking her for her donation and her story.

I feel like her being there at Comikaze was a sign.

In total, the Callie Care boxes totaled up to $320.00. In two days.

You never really expect kindness, but when it happens it is really, really emotionally overwhelming. It's like my heart feels full and the only way to empty it before it overflows is to cry.

Side note:

If you guys can't donate money or items but want to help, Eron wrote this on facebook: "[Callie's mom] reminded to me to tell you about is that all of you can go and give blood in Callie's name! She's needed a lot of blood through this ordeal and if you go and donate, you can help people in the same situation! When you go in tell them that you're donating in honor of Callie Rogers"

Callie Care at Comikzae

2011-11-04T23:45:00.001-07:00

These are the boxes that will be set up at booths and tables at Comikaze this weekend. If you are attending, stop by:

Top Cow (1407)

D.J. Kirkbride (92)

League of S.T.E.A.M. (1087)

Once again, thank you guys for all of your love and support. It is overwhelming and, well, you guys are the best. :)

-Jessi

2011-11-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

A dear friend of mine, Callie, was driving in her car when a drunk driver hit her, causing her car to be totaled and her hospitalized. She is currently in a coma over at UCLA's Intensive Care Unit.

Her boyfriend Eron has been so helpful telling her friends and loved ones of her condition on facebook. She's stable but in critical condition.

For all of us, it's been hard just sitting here knowing we can't do anything to make her feel better. She's in great hands, even having a robot doctor checking up on her health.

I don't know how long she's going to be in there, but it'll be awhile.

Eron and Callie will need some extra help when it comes to bills. Eron is a great man, but he can't do it alone which is why I am posting this:

I'm starting a donation drive for Callie, and the first thing to do is to get donations for some auctions I am going to put up via Ebay.

If anyone would like to contribute anything- art, crafts etc to the cause to help the two of them out, it would be very, very appreciated.

I will also have some donation boxes made for tables and booths during Comikaze Expo. If you're interested in having a donation box at your table, please let me know immediately.

You can get in touch with me via my personal email: jessi.l.reid@gmail.com

Thank you guys. I don't even have enough words to express how thankful I would be if you contributed.

-Jessi

Run For Your Lives

2011-09-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

We've all watched the great zombie films- Dawn of The Dead, Night of The Living Dead, Shaun of The Dead, Evil Dead... all those dead movies. If you're anything like me, you've always wanted the chance to run for your life during a Zombie Apocalypse. Apparently, now you can!

There's a very cool race happening all across the U.S that let's you run for your life aptly called "Run For Your Lives". Details below:

Protect your brain and run for your life. This is one race where your legs giving out are the least of your problems. Run For Your Lives is a first-of-its-kind event, one part 5K, one part obstacle course, one part escaping the clutches of zombies — and all parts awesome.
Runners will navigate a series of 12 obstacles throughout a 5K course in an attempt to reach the finish line — all while avoiding zombies. At the end of this adventure race, you get to celebrate survival (or zombie transformation) with live entertainment and music, local celebrities, vendors, food, and of course, beer!

Now stop watching The Walking Dead and start running from 'em!

Go to http://runforyourlives.com/ to get more information and run locations! First one is in Baltimore on October 22nd and I wish I could go!

Bootleg Martha Stewart Recipe

2011-08-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am lazy and did not make a grocery list last night. While I was nannying, I flipped through an old Martha Stewart Living and discovered an easy recipe that had items I already had in my fridge and items I knew I could omit.

1 tablespoon olive oil

7 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

3 cups yellow and red cherry tomatoes, halved

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

2/3 cup chicken stock

8 lasagna noodles

2/3 cup small basil

1/2 cup reduced fat ricotta cheese

1 ounce pecorino romano cheese, shaved

1. Look in your pantry. In mine I had

Four regular tomatoes
tri-color rotini pasta
1/2 cup chicken stock
enough garlic cloves
olive oil
a half of a bag of shredded Parmesan cheese

FUCK THAT INGREDIENT LIST OF MARTHA'S, USE MINE INSTEAD, WHATEVS. Besides, I am only posting the recipe list that pertains to what I made tonight anyway.

2. Slice the garlic cloves and realize you actually have two tomatoes because the other two are no good. Then realize you don't have enough rotini AND tomatoes. Drive yourself to the store and buy red cherry tomatoes and more rotini noodles and beer and nothing else from the list of ingredients you don't have, because you HATE ricotta cheese anyway. And you're cheap.

BEGIN COOKING.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a high sided skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic until pale golden, about 3 minutes.

4. Add 2 cups tomatoes and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook until soft, about seven minutes.

5. Add chicken broth. BUT WAIT.

Oh fuck, you only have 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Add water until its two thirds of a cup. NOW ADD IT. Simmer until saucelike, about 1 minute.

6. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil and add pasta. Cook until al dente, about seven minutes. Drain.

7. Toss pasta into skillet to sauce it up.

8. Add parmesan cheese (because I can't tell the difference between romano cheese) until it melts. Serve!

9. Eat your half before your boyfriend even sits down to eat his.

10. Go get more.

11. REGRET NOTHING.

Jessi Awesome Answers!

2011-06-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I haven't written in my awhile (shameful!), and yesterday while I was bored, I decided to see if any twitter-ers had any questions for me to answer! I got a few (thank you!) that range from what's been happening in the news to make-up to relationship advice! I hope you enjoy and maybe I'll make this a weekly thing! -@jessiawesome

Ryan Dunn's death? -zimpirate

I grew up with Jackass, so I understand the love for the man’s stunts, and while every death is a sad one, I’m a little at a loss on how to answer this. There’s speculation that since he posted a picture of him and his friends drinking only a couple hours before his tragic accident, he might have been driving drunk, which is never cool. RIP, Ryan Dunn.

The big Ultimate Spider-Man spoiler came out in the media today (I didn't read those stories yet) so how about Marvel/DC having to reveal endings to boost sales? - gregthelen

I think as far as trying to get new readers, it could work but as far as a reader who buys comics for the story arch, they are neglecting their main audience.

Reviving Wonder Woman with Christina Hendricks!- stupidwriter

I’ve only seen Ms. Hendricks in Firefly, Mad Men and some movie starring Katherine Heigl, and I don’t know if she has the Amazon gumption to play Diana! However, if she’s cast to fill those star spangled short-shorts, I will watch with excitement!

Doing your water line without screaming/dying/stabbing yourself! and what's the deal with primer?- HouseWench

I’ve found the simplest way to do your water line is to gently pull the bottom lid down and apply your eyeliner. The softest liners I’ve used are the NYX Jumbo Pencils. They are super creamy and safe for the eyes.

What’s the deal with primers, you ask? Primers fill and level your beautiful canvas for applying make-up! Most primers are made of waxes and/or silicone, so what this does is flatten out the face for your normal make-up, which could draw attention to scars or marks. The kind I use (MAC Prep & Prime) helps me to minimize the appearance of a shiny face. If you’re looking for a cheap one to try out is L'Oreal Studio Secrets face primer; it has great reviews (although they might test on animals).

Maybe some tips on eye makeup? How you apply it, how you chose colors, maybe?- MartianBethany theroseinbloom

The best advice I can give about how to apply makeup is to do so lightly. You can always build color in the places you need it, so a light hand when applying brush to skin is the best method. I do not use sponges (bacteria can cause breakouts) and try to wash my brushes weekly.

As far as applying colors, go with the basics that’ll look great with your skin tone and eye color. The book that has best helped me over the years is called THE FIVE MINUTE FACE by makeup artist Carmindy.

MartianBethany, since you have fair skin and blue eyes, I suggest browns/taupes and plum/purple colors to make your eyes pop! If you’re worried about clashing with your hair, choose colors in the brown/taupe and gold families.

How about makeup tips to cover the effects of allergies gone wild? - Deviltechie

If you’re having a problem with eyes, try a cooling eye drop and under eye serum (water-proof eye products will be your best friend!). If your nose is bothering you, try a heavy face cream concentrated on the dry areas, topped with a cream concealer.

Would you consider being a tutor/mentor for someone in regards to writing and/or art?- AbhorsenAube

Sure, but all the advice someone needs is this quote from Epictetus: “If you wish to be a writer, write.” Same with art. Do it, and then ask your peers to give you constructive criticism.

What's the oddest request anyone's ever made of you?- Bodhizen

The only thing I can think of is when I was still Danielle Corsetto’s assistant, during Baltimore Comic-Con, D was asked by a couple of dudes if they could take me to a nearby bar for a drink. She said I could, and while I got free booze from these two dudes, if it was any situation other than a convention, I probably wouldn’t have went, haha.

I need some #jessiawesomeanswers! How do I explain to a guy that he's not really geek enough to date one of my geeky friends?- Maevrim

Lady bro, there’s no easy way for me to say this but, if your friend likes this guy, you gotta go with it. If his biggest problem is that he’s not geek enough to date your pal, you can always try to involve him in more geek activities (a Battlestar marathon or a suggestion of comics your friend likes). You have to trust that your friend knows what she likes in guys, and if she’s smitten with him, it’s best not to try to cause a rift in their relationship. I mean, I once went on a date with a guy who told me he was geeky but acted like I was talking another language when it came to Batman, so I excused myself to the restroom, found my server and told her to send the check over ASAP. I got the heck out of there; if your friend doesn’t like the guy, she’ll do the same.

UPDATE: Maevrim further explains her friend's situation: No, she has no interest in him in the slightest because well, he doesn't share any of her interests. He says he wants to date a geek girl, which is why he wants me to set him up, but outside of Halo and Star Wars... I just don't know how to explain that to him when he asks why she hasn't tried to contact him.

Eep! In my experience, guys who want to date a girl based on a label isn't the BEST way to find that kind of lady. If she isn't interested and hasn't tried to contact him and he's buggin' you about it, I'd tell him gently that whatever goes on between him and your friend is none of your business to comment on. If he's super persistent, I'd say something along the lines of, "She hasn't contacted you with interest, then that should be enough of an answer, right?"

Cake or pie? gregthelen

I want to say cake because its delicious, but I am afraid it may be a lie.

For people who are just being introduced to sci-fi/geek culture, do you have anything you'd say to them/advice?- LockeCole117

I’d like to think that as geeks we are all-inclusive. The geek/nerd culture has something for everyone, so I’d tell them to look on the internet for a local group to find friends in whatever they get into!

What is the best thing in the world right now?- gregthelen

The best thing in the world right now and as cheesy as it sounds is to live with my boyfriend! We were long distance for a very long year and now that I’ve moved to L.A. it feels like we were never apart. (Yeah, yeah, I know you’re judging me)

Where in the world is Carmen San Diego?- gregthelen

I’d like to think she’s chillin’ in Los Angeles right now, ‘cause where else would she be? The weather is perfect, we have great food, and that Hollywood thing, right?

Math In The DCU

2011-05-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

I'm sure ya'll heard the big news out of DC today:

DC Comics is planning on renumbering their universe, revamping their superheroes and starting in September, 51 first issues will debut.

Let's do some math.

I had a wild thought and one that cannot be near correct, but what if DC decided to release all 51 first issues on the same day? So DC has, what, 23 pages of comics content in their books, right? If a person was to purchase all 51 books on the same day, they would have to read 1,173 pages of comics content, 167 pages per day until the next Wednesday.

Now, we all know that'd be a silly thing for DC to do, so let's just toy around with the idea of them releasing the 1st issue books only in September. We have four Wednesdays a month (duh), so DC would have to release 13-per-Wednesday (or, three Wednesdays with 13 and one with 12, whatever).

You'd still have 299 pages of comics content to read before the next Wednesday hits, which is still around forty-eight pages per day to read.

Still, a large enough chunk of words but we're all smart, right? That's easier to swallow?

Since DC isn't thinking about those kinds of numbers, it is time to delve into the ones that are number one to them.

A DC comic is retailed at $2.99

So, every week, DC expects you, the loyal reader, to purchase all 13 of these books at $38.87.

That, however, is what we call a subtotal.

Since I am living in California, my tax would be 9.75%.

I would be spending $42.66 per week on DC Comics alone.

In one month, I would be expected to spend $170.64 on DC titles.

Since I don't live in the land of hypotheticals (and who knows what the comic release dates are right now), but to all be caught up in the exciting world of DC first issue comics, I'd have to spend one-hundred-seventy dollars and sixty-four cents on DC titles alone, absolutely forgetting the fact that I like to spend my money on other comics at my LCS.

I'm all about hoping for the best, and this could be a fun, exciting thing for DC to do for comics... but in this situation, I gotta look out for my pocketbook.

Baby Doll Inspired Look From Sucker Punch

2011-03-31T16:08:00.000-07:00

I may have not liked Sucker Punch, but I love Rosalina Da Silva's makeup designs for the movie, so I couldn't pass up taking a go at Baby Doll. Plus, I'm the kind of lady who LOVES fake eyelashes so this look was right up my alley.

Awesome on Sucker Punch

2011-03-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

Over at Guerrilla Geek is an article about my views on the movie Sucker Punch. I watched it so you don't have to (no really, don't watch it).

You will be unprepared... for how truly accurate my review is. Go check it out.

Awesome x Wonder Woman x MAC

2011-03-10T13:32:00.000-08:00

Comics Alliance wanted tutorials and testimonials of MAC’s Wonder Woman make-up collection, and after being inspired by lady Ming Doyle, I decided to try my hand at showing you how to apply make-up!

(via jessiawesome.t umblr.com)

Why I Stand With Planned Parenthood

2011-02-18T17:36:00.000-08:00

I was nineteen when I first went to Planned Parenthood. I hadn’t had a pelvic exam that year, and since I was active with my boyfriend, I wanted to make sure I was okay. I also needed birth control. My name was called, and about an hour later I was on my way.

I don’t have a life changing tale about how Planned Parenthood saved my vagina. I don’t think I need one. Yes, my story is pretty mundane, but without Planned Parenthood, would I even have one to share? I can’t afford health insurance, I’m sexually active, and I want to make healthy choices for myself. Planned Parenthood allows me to do so in an affordable way.

If Planned Parenthood ceases to exist, then my mundane gynecological visits do, too.

So why are congressmen trying to take away my right to ensure I continue to be safe and healthy?

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO FIGHT BACK:

Sign the petition over at http://www.ppaction.org/IStandWithPP

Twitter the hashtag: #IStandWithPlannedParenthood

Awesome on Guerrilla Geek

2010-10-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

I'm a guest contributor today over at guerrilla geek! Check it out!

http://www.guerrillageek.com/2010/10/halloween-last-minute-costumes-2010/

Project Rooftop- Captain America: Fighting Styles Winners!

2010-10-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

Over at Project Rooftop, we held a Captain America redesign contest. So many great entries, guys.

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

To see what I had to say, head on over! What are you waiting for?

Things That Amuse Me: Leo Strut

2010-10-03T20:26:00.001-07:00

What I love about my dear Internet is that you can take a simple, awkward picture and make it into hilarity. It doesn't matter the content of the picture-- young or old, human or creature, famous or a nobody; if it's funny and on the internet, great things will happen. Take for instance Sad Keanu. Dude is just sitting there, minding his own business, solemnly eating a sandwich alone on a park bench and a couple of paparazzi shots later, it turns into an Internet Meme. A very hilarious one.

And the latest candid picture meme is of Leonardo DiCaprio on the set of Inception, walking in a pretty goofy manner:
This simple, weird picture has made, what I believe to be, the next big dance craze:

My apologies in advance if this gets stuck in your head like it has mine.

Unemployment Ahoy!

2010-09-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

Georgia’s unemployment rate is at an astounding 10%, and if you’re “in between jobs” like me, you understand the hurdles one needs to jump through just to get interviewed at the local shopping mall. For those who would rather their professional competition be over the age of sixteen, let’s stick out this tidal wave of disappointment together. Better yet, why not spin it around and think positively? Let’s put an "F" in front of that "U" and have a party! Read on to learn how to have FUNEMPLOYMENT.

Scam Emails - For every five resumes I send out, four of them end up being replied to by emails written in poor English asking for my credit score or an address to send a cashier’s check. Normally I’d just toss those suckers in my spam box and move along my merry way. Lately it has occurred to me that, hey, those guys need to put food on the table, too. Why not humor them? Send out a fake credit score and have a good old chat with Mr. Jon Smith "on business overseas." Maybe he’ll get a raise!

Living With Your Parents - Sure, your mom’s idea of privacy is a quick knock as she’s opening your door, and you may have to share bathroom space with your sibling, but a free room is a huge perk to funemployment. Who needs that much hot water anyhow? Your idea of bonding time to you might not equate to a lengthy discussion on where you went wrong in your life, but remember: your parents are only trying to bond with you daily! I sure know I need a regular reminder of why my siblings are doing better than I am. Turn your back to those stormy somber showers and feel the warm rays of Partly Cloudy Parental Affirmations. Now repeat after me, “Spin that wool! Black is a slimming color!”

Television - Normally I wouldn’t include judging others as part of a funemloyee’s repertoire, but have you seen MTV programing? Whenever I start feeling bad about myself, I turn on an episode of Jersey Shore. Do you have cameramen recording your every move so you can relive your failures over and over again? Never mind that a single Jersey Shoreian is making more money than you are. Remember, when they blow through their quick cash, they’ll still be the idiots who subjected themselves to skin cancer and nationwide ridicule.

Diet - Remember when you were little how, if you could, you would eat cereal every meal? With the off-brands being under three dollars a bag, now you can! Heck, get different kinds so you can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner cereals. No one can stop you now! If younger you could, they’d high-five you.

Morning Traffic - One weekday I hung out with a friend early on into the weekday morning, and as I was going back home on the highway, I noticed all the bright lights heading in the opposite direction to the city. I almost forgot about this particular soul crushing part of holding a job: commuting every morning in rush hour traffic. Why would anyone willingly go to the frontlines of the traffic war -- white knuckling your steering wheel, cursing and breathing in fumes from other unhappy worker bees -- is beyond me now.

Sleeping In - During funemployment you’re not working for the weekend -- so why should you have to subject yourself to waking up at normal people hours? So you can make the most of your daily Halo and Youtube video marathons? Please, you can still do that between the hours of 3:00PM and 6:00AM.

Grooming - Ever wanted to see how long you could go without shaving your legs or cutting your hair? Pesky employers and their “corporate guidelines” nipped that in the bud, huh? You, my friend, are your own funemployer, and if you don’t want to take a shower for a week you don’t have to! Come on, ladies, braid your leg hair! Fellas, go Unibomber chic! Are you going to fire your fun?

Weekday Warrior - When you’re in funemployment you can do what you want. Make your friends jealous by drunk texting them during the week about how much fun you’re having at the local watering hole without them because somebody has to work in the morning. I know, I know -- how are you going to be able to fund this WKDW lifestyle without the disposable income? Do you have an empty soda/water bottle? Get acquainted with Black Velvet and Mr. Boston, your new drinking buddies. A handle of the Velvet can be under $20, so pour that liquid out of a giant plastic bottle and into a portable one with a mixer, and you’re good to go!

Friends - A proper funemployee is never complete without some sidekicks. These employed folks will not raise an eyebrow over your current status. They might, however, e-mail you job opportunities or make sure you have an ear to chew off after you’re finished watching Jersey Shore. A sidekick will never judge you for wanting to Redbox-it instead of going to the theater, nor will they shriek at the fact that there’s not only soda in that bottle or that you can comb your legs. Their idea of dinner may not be Frosted Ohs, but if that’s all you have to eat, they’ll order you Chinese. You can’t spell both funemployment and friends without an "F" afterall.

photo credits: biology-blog, Washington Post and Black Velvet

I'm Going The Distance too.

2010-09-12T22:52:00.000-07:00

Of course you guys know me as a lady who partakes in all things nerdy but I have a confession: I love romantic comedies. I love the same, boring old story that goes along with them: guy meets girl, awkward shenanigans ensue and by the end of the movie, a love connection is made. Yeah, its formulaic in script but they make me happy and hopeful while I'm watching them.

This being said, I just got back from “Going The Distance”; a film about two love birds head-over-heels for one another... across the country. If you, the reader, know anything about me (and you probably do) I am in a Long Distance Relationship with a fella who lives way on the other side of the country, so this movie was right up my alley with the feel-good plot of another couple who has to go through what I go through daily.

This movie was torture to watch.

I assumed going into it that it was not at all how normal LDRs work. This is a movie made by the Hollywood Machine, after all. I figured it was going to be about a couple who get to see one another all the time and who are able to maintain a relationship without all the daily nuances in their way. I was dead wrong.

Starring Drew Barrymore and Justin Long, Going The Distance is about a pair who meet in New York City, have an instant connection, and decide for better or worse to be in a relationship with one another after Erin (Barrymore) has to leave her Summer Internship at a news publication to head back to the West Coast. Garrett (Long) has a job at a Record company and frankly hates his superficial career dealing with manufactured teenie-bop up-and-comings and not with organic underground bands. On the other hand, Erin is working her way through Stanford with a shitty serving job trying to make ends meet.

The two of them cannot afford to fly and see one another all the time. One particular scene that hit home was when Garrett was looking into holiday flights out to San Fran to see Erin and realizes upon searching he could not afford the astronomical prices. My boyfriend and I are in a similar predicament where plane rides are a luxury that neither of us can afford as often as we like but we've made the effort to scrounge up pennies to make it happen.

Between those brief moments of being able to hang around one another, we have to deal with other issues that were brought up in the movie. I am on EST (like Garrett) and my boy is on PST (like Erin) so I've been dealing with late-night skype sessions and phone calls. When we're ready to say goodnight, most of the time I should be saying good morning.

There's also the unique problem LDR couples have to deal with when talking about our relationship to friends and family members. I can't recall the amount of talks I've had with folks about, yes, I understand I get to see my boyfriend once every couple of months and yes, I know you've been in an LDR that didn't work and I totally, completely trust him and know he won't do anything behind my back. Erin and Garrett have to deal with the issues presented to them by people they know as well. Erin, funny enough, has the same kind of protective older sister I do and the dynamic between the two works well.

Besides the physical frustrations that Erin and Garrett face (hi, mom) there are also the emotional ones that play a major part in the foundation of a healthy LDR. When Erin gets a job offer at a newspaper in San Fran, Garrett immediately assumes she has no inclinations to move out to New York as previously planned which starts a fight between them. It is such an easy misstep to make.
Big life changes also effect a person who cannot physically be there with you, making it seem to your partner that you're not “in it” like they are. No one should be put in a situation that makes it seem like you cannot do things to better yourself without it also benefiting the relationship.

With Erin's case, the economy sucks and print papers are laying off people left and right; does she take the job and risk ruining her relationship or does she move out to New York on the slim chance she may find another job like it? Romantically speaking its so easy to think you can pack your things up, shack up with your partner and live happily ever after. In all practicality this can't be done automatically, unless you're well-to-do. I keep my heart on my sleeve but I know I can't do what I want without having money saved up. And trust me, LDRs are expensive on their own without the cost of moving added in. Isn't that what LDRs are all about anyway? The hope of having the end result being that the two of you live in a place where you can see one another all the time? It's a lot of pressure.

Now I won't spoil the end of the movie for you. I will say it was eye-roll inducing. Just because I related to a lot of the goings-on in the film doesn't mean I do not realize the script was slightly generic in story-telling. Walking out of the theater made me realize that I am not so alone in my LDR and issues that have been heart-wrenching are in fact normal. And that's a pretty hopeful thing to know.

Oct. 2009 - Aug. 2010

2010-08-03T14:56:00.000-07:00

First off, I cannot believe it's been nine months since I updated this blog! Bad Jessi.

Secondly, and most importantly, I am leaving Girls With Slingshots and my dear friend Danielle to move back to Georgia this week. I know, I know, this is very last minute; however, I couldn't think of a way to announce the move. I have been mulling it over in my head.

And believe me, it's still weird to say (or even write) out loud.

I'm unsure of how much I can disclose to you all, but D is in the process of signing with a company to essentially take care of what I do. I honestly couldn't be happier with her decision. This is going to be huge for Danielle and the future of Girls With Slingshots.

The last ten months have flat-out been the most fun I've ever had working for someone. I was able to learn so much about making comics in my time here as her assistant. Danielle is even more wonderful in person than what her online persona shows; she is as nice as she is humble about her talent.

I cannot begin to explain my gratitude and fortune for getting to tag along with her on trips to various comic conventions. Because of D, I have met so many people I now consider friends. I've been able to share and talk with so many new people/followers on Twitter. I wouldn't have written and drawn my own short-story for an anthology had it not been for Danielle pushing me to do so, making my "art" look better with her inking and getting excited for its release. I also would have never gone to Baltimore Comic Con and met my future boyfriend. ;)

When I met Danielle at Heroescon 2009, she was vivacious, quick-witted, and fun to hang around with after hours at the Westin bar.
The Monday of the con's end, she and I went to a now-defunct restaurant in Charlotte for a quick bite to eat before we parted ways. This quick lunch turned into a five hour conversation, and by the end of it, I thought to myself, "I'd love to be like her when I am twenty-eight."

After these ten months, my mindset hasn't changed one bit.

I may lose a boss in the process, but I'm not losing a person I consider to be one of my closest friends and a mentor. It's been tearing me up knowing that I won't be able to take just a short walk up the stairs in our ancient house to see what she's working on, ask for advice, have a quick laugh, or a shoulder to cry on. Being around a person who is so passionate about what makes her happy solidifies why I want to make comics, too.

So long Danielle and this little town I've called home for almost a year. You will be missed.

Danielle and I; my first day as her assistant
Oct. 2009

Twelve Last Minute Halloween Costumes

2009-10-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

My new article cowritten by Dean Trippe is up on Fandomania!

Twelve Last Minute Halloween Costumes | Fandomania

Source: Fandomania

With Halloween just one day away, Jessi and her special guest Dean Trippe compile a helpful list to all last-minute costumers.

Best Shots: Let's Be Friends Again Volume One

2009-10-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

My first Newsarama review is up! Let's Be Friends Again Vol. 1!

Best Shots: SUPERGIRL, DARK WOLVERINE, CHEW, more

Source: www.newsarama.com

We've got lots of reviews this week, from Marvel, DC, image, and even the web, plus a new team member!

Jessi's Awesome Baltimore Comic Con Report

2009-10-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

My newest article, check it out!

Jessi’s Awesome Baltimore Comic Con Report | Fandomania

Source: Fandomania

Jessi Reid comes back from her short hiatus to talk about her new job and BCC experience.

New article is up!

2009-09-25T14:06:00.000-07:00

Holy Mackerel, Batgirl Gets A New Costume! | Fandomania

Source: fandomania.com

Jessi discusses her opinion on a costume which she believes has more issues than a comic book rack.

kind of late but;

2009-09-20T12:02:00.000-07:00

Jessi’s Awesome Dragon*Con 2009

Jessi Reid delves into her adventures in this Dragon*Con report.

Also, I will be writing for Newsarama as well as Fandomania! Exciting!

Since I wasn't home to do this before go read this interview!

2009-09-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

Interview: Jemma Salume | Fandomania

Source: fandomania.com

Up and coming comic artist Jemma Salume speaks with Fandomania about her school, art, and not so ordinary life.

My "Eight Guys to Avoid At Conventions" Article has been featured on USA Today's website via PopCandy

2009-09-01T13:22:00.001-07:00

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/popcandy/post/2009/09/early-buzz-top-videos-fall-shows-/1

I never thought I'd see the day. I am freaking out like all hell.
A HUGE thank you foremost to all you crazy cats who thought my little ol' article was funny enough to read.
Big thank you to Blog@newsarama for featuring my article.
A HUGE thank you to Popcandy for the mention. No really. Thank you guys.

I am going to go back to freaking out.

The Eight Guys to Avoid at a Convention

2009-08-28T11:18:00.001-07:00

my homegirl Perry Frost co-wrote this article with me!

The Eight Guys to Avoid at a Convention | Fandomania

Source: fandomania.com

With Dragon*Con just a week away, Jessi and her special guest Perry Frost compile a helpful list to all female con attendees.

Interview: Curt Franklin & Chris Haley of Let’s Be Friends Again

2009-08-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

Second article is up! Please go take a look!

Interview: Curt Franklin & Chris Haley of Let’s Be Friends Again | Fandomania

Source: fandomania.com

Let's Be Friends Again creators Curt Franklin and Chris Haley talk candidly to Fandomania about their webcomic and upcoming book slated for release in the upcoming months.

Interview: Dean Trippe

2009-08-14T15:38:00.000-07:00

I have a band new column at the blog, Fandomania. If you can all be dears and go check out my new article (perhaps comment as well?), I'd love you forever.

Interview: Dean Trippe | Fandomania

Source: fandomania.com

Comics Creator Dean Trippe chats with Jessi Reid on his webcomic Butterfly, women in comics, and what fans can look forward to next.

Splash Page: Wednesday Comics Week Four

2009-08-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a guest writer over at CBR this week for Wednesday Comics Issue Four, and if you've been liking what you've seen of "Superman" (like myself), you go tell that Mister Tim Callahan he's done out of his mind!

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=22375

My San Diego Comic Con Report Ahoy!

2009-08-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever been this worn out before over a convention, but of course, not all conventions are like the little one held in San Diego. Currently, I am in my PJs, slumping around my house in a tired daze. Nerd Prom is five days of costumes, art, panels and the lines you wait in for them. My con experience was solely about socialization, which I tend to believe is the sane route (No waiting in lines to hang with friends!). I'm starting to acknowledge that my first SDCC was the best EVER, and nobody can top it, but I'll save the bragging rights for later.

Wednesday

First things first- I am a procrastinating fool. I was having such terrible pre-con jitters that even with a list I comprised over a span of two days I wasn't able to pack everything until the wee-hours of Wednesday morning which left me having three and a half hours of sleep- a meager power nap for the big day ahead of me. My flight to Phoenix could not compare to my flight to San Diego as I sat next to Comics Creator Mark Britt and we talked shop for the 1.5 hours we had to reach our destination.

I arrive, meet up with Dean Trippe & Brian Muelhaupt and we make our merry way over to our hotel. From there I was introduced to Andrew Pearson, Jemma Salume, and Pedro Coelho. We made it over to the convention center in time to take in Preview Night: I have to say that walking into San Diego Comic Con for the first time was quite overwhelming- the amount of people combined with the large displays for the booths made me stop to take it all in. I entered through the door that the DC Universe Booth was closest to, and from that point on I knew I was going to have an awesome convention.

Jemma and Pedro doing a super awesome con-action pose while Dean is makin' important calls.

DCU Booth!

After nabbing a few choice items for myself, we all went out to dinner at Royal Thai, where we met up with Ming Doyle, Tim Callahan and TV's Ryan Callahan. After stopping over at The Field to say a quick hello to my buddy Jimmy Aquino, Team Awesome was finally assembled when Jason Horn joined us for some late night drinks over at The Hilton Gaslamp's lobby bar. Around five a.m. we all stumbled back to our hotel to get some sleep for Official Con Day One.

Thursday

The gang absent-mindedly left a Mister Dean Trippe back at the hotel (we were tired!) but we met up with him once again for me to do my assistant duties. After walking around for a bit, we all headed to Geoff's Blackest Night panel and not too long into it I received a call from my friend Jess informing me to meet her over at the DCU booth to check out my girls in their costumes. The call couldn't have come at a more opportune moment- I was getting pretty sick of listening to the fanboy questions a-la, (fanboy pointing to his BL ring), "Does anyone else have the urge to kill themselves or others while wearing this ring?" Seriously? Its a plastic ring, sir.

I ran over there to spend my dinner with the lovely Jessica Parks, Hardcore Nerdity's Catwoman aka Meghan Campbell and was introduced to Abe & Kroenen's own Kim Belair and Rebecca Stacey.

What a puur-fect pair of friends. Har har.

Dang Wonder Woman confusin' my awesomeness for a bad dude but I'll roll with it.

After dinner I got ready to go on over to the Boom! Studios party held at the Hyatt's lobby bar. The placed was packed with industry people and nerds abound. Coming from the Southeast coast, where the largest convention is Dragon*Con, I found myself lost within a sea of drunken comic geeks. Luckily I had some life saving friends for when talking to "Marvel Men" became tiresome.

The best part of the evening, of course, had to have been my encounter with Mark Waid. Now see I'm a shy one when it comes to people who have my respect and I was practically dragging my heels in to the floor when Dean wanted to introduce me to him, however, any reservations I had from talking to Mister Waid disappeared after being able to converse about comics with the man who got me interested in Superman after reading, "Superman: Birthright". He's also one of the most pleasant people to be around, to boot. I didn't think my night could get any better until he told me he'd personally introduce me to Gail Simone!

I went to bed a very happy person that night.

Mark Waid and I!

Friday

Dean and I grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading to the con where, after walking around quite a bit, met up with Meghan. She was determined to get a sketch by Dustin Nguyen and since Dean is a buddy of his, we obliged to be apart of her adventure to find his table. The hunt to find his table in the Artists Alley was proven to be a success, abet having to maneuver around the con-goers. While Meghan and Dean talked to Dustin, I had a brief chat with Randy House. After that, Meghan and I parted ways so that Dean and I can meet up with Team Awesome for a bite to eat before the Eisner's.

Jason got free cookies for dinner!

I don't even know what to say about my experience at the Eisner's. Team Awesome had their own table (nom nom nominees) and I can't speak for all of them, but I felt pretty fancy being there.

My surroundings.

Comic Book Tattoo Number One!

Look at this fancy set-up they got goin' for us.

I was on the guest list for the ONI Party so I jetted out of the Eisner's to make it to that shin-dig.

The party was held on the rooftop of the Padre's Stadium so we were way up against the cityscape. Did I mention the open bar?

pay no attention to the drunk dude

So when I saw Zachary Quinto at said open bar I grabbed Dean but I confused my 'normal excited HEY LOOK WHO THAT IS' grab with my Vulcan Death Grip. I was more excited than I thought I was so while Dean talked to a cross-armed Zach about Trek, I just stood in awkward admiration.

Dean had left briefly to make it to the Eisner's just in time to see Comic Book Tattoo win and I talked comics with a Mister Jason Latour until he returned. From that point on, we all tried to arm-wrestle one another, and when last call was called (and the lame, "LETS MAKE DIS A SEXY COMIC-CON" dj appeared) we jetted off to the Hyatt where Ben Templesmith done drew on my leg!

Mister Templesmith and I!

I also hungout with my friend Sterling Gates and the night concluded with all of us drunkenly taking angled photos of one another.

Saturday

I don't believe I did very much on Saturday besides going on the CBR boat for a spell. I have
found that I do not do well on boats.

I'M ON A BOAT!

The CBR Boat was what you'd expect a boat to be- low ceilings, wood paneling and a slow, constant rocking motion which almost made me lose my breakfast. Andy Khouri made the rocking more tolerable as he's a witty guy who can talk comics like nobody's business. Dean drew a Zatanna for Andy's girlfriend who happens to costume (and look like) the character.

Dean Drawing Zatanna for a pretty lady.

Fortunately for my stomach, we left the boat and checked into our new hotel.

Team Awesome moved into our sweet room on the 14th floor at the Westin (which is a lot better than sleeping on the floor at the Hampton Inn, lemme tell you what) and after regrouping at the Hyatt, Ming, Jason and I all went down to the Popcult party. This is the night homegirl got drunk. This is the night where drunken dancing ensued and friendships were made with trees. I am not going into anything else. Saturday, oh Saturday.

Sunday

I was surprised I could manage to wake up at an "early" time to go and meet Mark at his booth. I received a tweet at 10 saying that I needed to go to his booth -at- 11 so that I could be introduced to Gail. Well, whadda know, I didn't check my tweets until eleven and basically booked it to his booth at Boom! Studios with nothing in me (not even coffee)! Mark got Gail to come over and she signed my Tim Sale Wonder Woman cover. It was nice to be able to tell her that she is the reason why I wanted to write comics. I was completely speechless and I will never be able to thank Mark enough. So if you're out there and you're reading this Mark- thank you so, so much.

I went back to my hotel room and quickly changed into my Superwoman costume. I didn't really feel like dressing up this convention but I figured since I had the thing with me, why not? I'm also blaming it on Sterling- I wouldn't have been in the costume without him asking! The rest of Sunday was spent wandering around the hallways, and trying to find some last minute deals on t-shirts (there weren't any, sadly).

Well that's a SUPER COUPLE if I ever did see one! Get it? SUPER..? Guys..?

Team Awesome Elevator Action Ka-Pow!

Look at that! Jason and Jemma are sittin' next to Lois! Boy I am jealous.

After a quick change in the hotelroom, Team Awesome went back out for some dinner and spent some time at the good ol' Hyatt lobby bar one more time.

photo thanks to Brian Muelhaupt

We then watched the Rifftrax of 'The Room' and if you haven't seen it, I implore you to stop reading this silly thing and go watch that piece of comedic gold.

Monday

After saying goodbye to Dean and Jemma, I made my way back to the Peach State. The good thing about the trip back was that I got the window seat heck yes!

Ever think Superman tires of this view? Because I sure wouldn't.

Some quick thank yous:

Dean, Jemma, Jason, Ming, Sterling, Tim, Ryan- The most, well, awesome con-friends I could ever have. Go, Team Awesome!

Jimmy Aquino- Seriously? I can not say enough about you, sir. Thank you for getting my friends and I into Popcult! You are the bee's knees.

Kevin Church- Fantastic meeting you on Thursday! You had me in stitches! I cannot wait for Ming Dy-Nasty's album to drop.

Christopher Schons- I never thought that meeting you on the bus would turn into seeing you everywhere- you were a great addition to the Team! Thanks for the Batman and the company!

Mark Waid- Thank you for taking the time out to talk to little ol' me. The best part of SDCC was meeting you!

Matt Fraction- I will never forget the writing advice you gave me and I don't think you'll ever know how much I appreciated it.