Way Off Broadway Screening March 18th & 19th, 2005

Way Off Broadway Screening March 18 and 19th, 2005

Morena Baccarin and Ron Glass                                                                    

I went to see Morenca's first movie Friday. This movie is really funny and well written. I was laughing and clapping at certain spots. Morena was really funny. This character is totally different from Inara and it was great to see that range. This movie is laugh out loud funny and well written. The performance of the cast really makes the movie and it is just great to see Morena in 90% of the movie. The movie is about the struggle we all go through after college - what do we do now? Make my dreams come true or get a job? It gave a great view of what struggling actors in New York City are able to do and how friends keep each other going. Afterwards I handed Morena a card and told her I thought she was great in the movie. The card is just written praise in case I don't get to say what I want to say because my brain goes missing. 

I went back to see it again on Saturday with my sister Carol and Julie and we met Harpy outside the theater. Harpy is a German Browncoat who was visiting the States and going to various Cons. I really enjoyed the movie the second time just as much. We didn’t ask questions.  Afterwards we saw Ron Glass congratulating Morena! He was walking away from her and there were a few Browncoats near me as he passed. I stopped him by placing a hand on him. What I didn’t know at the time was that Carol had also put her hand on him on the other side. I just told him we were fans of his as well. All these folks were Browncoats. Ron smiled and nodded and then moved on. I think he really just did not expect to run into fans and was surprised. Afterwards he spoke to others in the lobby and I think he was better prepared.

I went back to congratulate Dan Kay on his hard work. It’s a great movie and he has worked hard on making it happen. I did not get a chance to speak to Morena the second night.

I actually went during the week one more time and took my sister Perla. She loved it.

Julie Highlights:

I was lucky to see the 7:15 showing with Rosie, Carol, and Harpy (a Browncoat visiting from Germany). James and several others met up with us after attending Wizard World today.  The movie was very good, as was Morena. She did an amazing job!  This was Rosie's second viewing, so she can provide a much better review.  There was a Q&A after with the writer/director and three of the main stars, Morena among them. Very insightful questions were asked and I thought it was a good discussion.

Many from the audience went up to the cast to congratulate them and wish them luck on the film. Apparently, the film is only being released in LA. So it needs to do well this weekend in order to continue on.

As I was waiting to speak with Morena, who should walk past us but our favorite Shepherd. Yes, Ron Glass was there to see the film. He went over to hug Morena and speak with her. I spoke briefly with Morena and told her how much I enjoyed the film.  I also handed her the two cute pictures I had taken of her and Nathan at Gen Con.

I saw Ron again in the lobby. I approached him and said I was a fan of his work, and was looking forward to Serenity. He seemed surprised that he was recognized, but he was very pleasant. He and Morena left together.

To sum up: Good movie, BDHs continue to rock.

Firefly Happy Hour March 12, 2005

Firefly Happy Hour – March 12, 2005

Adam Baldwin and Alan Tudyk                                                                                                    

There were around 70 people. Many OB Browncoats arrived early and hung out at the bar. No one official arrived until 5pm. My sister Carol and I were waiting for Saxon and Julie to arrive. 

I got the call they were in the parking lot so I went outside to meet them. The convention center was literally across the street from this outdoors 2-story mall. I walked down the stairs and across and noticed a group walking over and beautiful blonde hair. Alan was speaking to Erin Gray. He was being very emphatic telling her something. He was pounding his left fist I believe into his right like three times. I was struck dumb. I was alone and just mesmerized. I noticed Adam on the other side of Erin but I just kept staring. Then it looked like Alan noticed me staring but just then my phone rang and I looked down. I answered it and they continued walking on. I spazzed out with Julie on the phone, “If you were here 2 minutes ago you would have seen them!” Poor Ewok had a broken foot and on crutches and that slowed them down. 

By the time we arrived everyone was seated.

Another Browncoat, Erin, got a seat for Saxon, Ewok, Carol and I. Julie and her 2 friends Betty and Aimee had to sit elsewhere. Our table was right next to Adam and Alan’s table!

As we entered I approached Erin Gray since I had met her at GenCon and re-introduced myself to her. She seemed to remember I went with a group of teachers so she thought I was one too. I spoke to her for a bit. I noticed Alan and Adam out of the corner of my eye at the table where I was going to be sitting but I stayed with Erin talking. Finally I made it over and Alan was talking at the next table I was afraid I had missed him.

Adam was sitting next to my seat. Carol wanted a picture so I went to get the camera and take her picture.
I greeted Adam and he stood up shouting, “Rosie!!!” Opening his arms wide. He really is adorable. People started taking pictures then I told him I wanted to take his picture with Carol. Warning to all I cannot take pictures of our BDHs. So unfortunately it did not turn out well and I took too long. So you are all warned.

He went to sit down and then Erin told him he had to talk to the whole room. So off he went to the other side. I was going to sit down but heard Alan starting to end the conversation. I stood there and wanted to get his attention. I thought I missed him at our table. So I touched his left hand with my right hand tall fingers. He finished and then looked up. He smiled warmly, gave me a hug as a greeting. I told him I was at this table and I was afraid I missed him, I just wanted to say hi. I let him go talk to the rest of the room. Then I sat down.

However I could not just sit there. I knew a lot of Browncoats in the room so I went to talk to them. I do not know how many OB Browncoats were there that I did not know. I do not have delusions of grandeur and I did not walk up to everyone thinking they wanted to talk to me. I did greet folks as they entered especially if they entered alone. I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th Hour. Then Betsy said she wanted to meet Erin Gray so I went to introduce her. I explained to Erin that most Firefly Fans are first time Con goers. She noted that and shared it with someone else. I thought it was important they know that about us.

Then I went to sit with Julie, Betty and Aimee. As I was about to leave I notice that Alan disappeared and then saw the security guy with him standing between our booth and that booth so I sat back down. I realized Alan was coming over. Alan came in and started shaking my hand and then realized it was me again. I kept silent and let the girls speak; I did not want to steal their time. Alan shared how it was to see William Shatner at the Con.

Then I congratulated him on his pilot and told him how there was a group that attended the taping of Nathan’s pilot. I wondered if it would be in front of a studio audience, he said no. He said the writers are folks that worked on 28 Days they wrote the soap opera scenes. He was very excited. He looked so good. He said goodbye and moved on to the next table that was Tamara and Betsy’s table. They were loud and animated. I stayed where I was and we were talking to the security guy.

Finally I left to go back to my table. Turns out there were antics aplenty at my table. I was hoping to hang out with a lot more Browncoats. I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th and they told me of their encounter with Alan. They were all dreamy eyed. Then I moved back over to Julie’s booth and I heard Adam is in Tamara’s booth. 

So I sat and waited and asked the girls what they wanted to say. Then Adam slid in. He looked great and really comfortable with the schmoozing. He was really getting into it and relaxed. He asked what we wanted to talk about and Julie told him her students, well the girls think he’s really cute. He asked, “Who’s your favorite character” but they all said Jayne. Then I said Wash, Adam goes good see it takes the pressure off. Julie smiles and then quickly changes her answer to Simon.  Adam gets this wicked grin and asks if we’d all seen the film yet. We had all seen Serenity so we spoke a little about that and then it was time for him to move on.

After he left I went back to my table and they told me that they never got any time with Alan. I spoke to the Security guy and told him Alan missed a table he said they have to come back here. So I went back and told everyone at my table to move, they started to question but I said hurry. I needed to get them settled before Alan needed to leave. Time was running out. So I sat Ewok and Carol and Erin. Saxon was standing I told her to sit and she said, “There’s no chair.” So I walked over to another table and borrowed a chair and then told Saxon, “Chairs are movable.” I told the security guy this was the new table.

Adam an Alan moving from table to table!

Now while I was walking back and forth we had run out of time. They were supposed to leave but Adam had not even seen a whole series of tables. They were trying to make him leave and he said he would not be rushed. I was going to try to talk to him to move and at least say hi to those tables he missed but he was talking to a little kid and I just didn’t have the heart to take him away. Also it was not my job and I was busy trying to get the Alan thing set up. 

Finally they were saying they had to go now. Alan said all right but came by quickly to the table I just set up. He signed Ewok’s foot. Saxon handed me her camera and I tried to get a picture. Alan circled the table and said hi bye to everyone. I was so frantic I don’t remember even saying goodbye. It was all about those who didn’t get a chance. I never saw Adam leave so I don’t know if he even said hi to everyone. 

Alan did a great job of talking to everyone quickly but not rushed. He seemed to have it timed. He was excellent at this.

Adam was really relaxed and enjoyed his conversations but did not move quickly. It was totally awesome and overwhelming for me. I was hungry and tired at the end of it so I can just imagine how they must be. Definitely they should be fed beforehand and given a break half way through.

And that was it. Everyone went back to the convention or home a few stayed to get some food. I did not get a picture with Alan but I did get one with Adam. Not able to find it  or the one I took of Carol with these pics. May have been a different camera. 

For the record Odile Beals, may she rest in peace was the organizer for the Firefly Happy Hour. She was a beautiful Browncoat. She had fun. Here she is talking to Adam Baldwin.

Here she is talking to Alan Tudyk.

Thank you Odile for all you did to make this event possible. Rest in Peace.

WonderCon Report February 19, 2005

WonderCon Report February 19, 2005
Nathan Fillion, Summer Glau, Adam Baldwin and Joss Whedon

Friday

Mom loves San Francisco. So I convinced Mom that we needed a little trip up to San Francisco. We drove up from LA that morning and my sister Carol and I arrived at Bubba Gump’s Shrimp Factory in plenty of time to meet up with other Browncoats for dinner. Mom and Dad dropped us off and went to do their own thing.

Saxon was already there. Before we rounded a corner Carol said, “I hear Saxon.” Sure enough I turn the corner and there she is. She was talking to 3 local Browncoats who post on the movie board. One of them recognized Carol from her website. We went to sit down and had a wonderful meal. There were several conversations going on and Carol and Ewok, both about the same age, were very happy to see each other again. After dinner we split up. Some folks went to watch a movie and we went back to Saxon’s place. It took a while to get through and by the time we arrived at Saxon’s we realized needed to get some sleep.

Saturday

It was raining. Mom and Dad dropped us off around 9:30am.  As we entered to go down the escalators Saxon and family arrived. They went to purchase their tickets and we headed downstairs. We headed to the room were the panel would be, and then we made our way to the Browncoat table. They had a lot of shiny prizes. Ray was dressed as Mal with the maroon shirt and tan pants, complete with boots, holster and gun, he was one of many Browncoats manning the fan table. Then we headed over to the lottery table for a chance to get an autograph. We met a lot of shiny Browncoats. After the autograph lottery I went to get some money and coffee. When I returned we saw a huge line forming for the room. The Serenity Panel was not scheduled until 1pm but in order to sit in the front we arrived at least 2 hours early. I was not in the center but facing the stage I sat on the right side, third row.

Finally Joss came out. I can’t remember everything he said. I decided to just focus on the experience. My favorite part was Joss strutting as we were cheering for him. He is so very funny. He called up John Cassaday to make an announcement. John was not sure what to say then Joss kind of starts making faces challenging him to do it. Then he shared there will be another season of Astonishing X-Men. Also regarding the prequel comic to Serenity, there will be 3 parts but nine variant covers. Joss clarified, “For those of you who don’t know that word, it means different.” Then the cast came out, clean shaven Adam, lovely Summer, and Nathan. Joss came out with a clear purple backpack so Adam picked it up like it had cooties and moved it. He said, “That’s better.” Summer came out and gave Joss a big hug. Finally its Nathan’s turn and he came out and greeted everyone.

Joss tried to be suave and cued to roll the clip but someone was not ready I guess so he started waving his arms around for rolling. Then they showed a clip of Serenity. I was very excited they showed us the scene I am in. It was just very surreal to see it for the first time. Joss started taking questions and I told Carol and Ewok to go up and take pictures up close. They ended up sitting on the floor in front of the panel the whole time. There were many questions. One statement I remember was from Adam about Nathan, “Nathan was always the leader and kept everyone’s spirits up when we were shooting the show. Even on the edge of cancellation he kept things fun.” Joss said that after they were cancelled it was Nathan who rallied the group, had dinners, kept in touch and did not negotiate a contract until everyone was on board. Nathan kept the crew together. Joss said that when Summer first auditioned, she performed a 3-page monologue in a Russian accent flawlessly, and then she said she prepared it in a British accent as well. Joss realized then that she would be able to do whatever he asked of Summer.

Nathan was just hilarious throughout. When asked what character he would like to play he said River then he could go Cuckoo, Cuckoo, Cuckoo and shake my bag of marbles. He made funny faces and sounds. Adam said that Saffron was the inspiration for Jayne needing to touch things. Alan called in to make sure the shirts he donated for the raffle had arrived. It was perfectly timed. He is such a sweetheart.

The panels are always too short. They needed to go sign autographs. Adam called Ewok over to say hi. It was a quick moment. Then they were gone. I really hoped they would stop by the Browncoat meeting room but that did not happen. After 3 pm we went to the meeting room and it was almost full, finding a seat was difficult. It was quite warm as well. We decided to wander a bit on the floor and returned to the Browncoat table, and then went to see the autograph sessions but all we saw was the line. We returned to the meeting room but stayed in the hallway talking with other Browncoats, the room was full. It was around 5:30pm and I decided to go get some coffee and I walked off to the nearby Starbucks. While I am paying, Carol calls me and runs into Joss on the floor of the Con. She puts Joss on the phone. I can’t really believe I am talking to Joss as I am pouring cream into my coffee.

I rushed back to the con and find Carol and Ewok with Joss and John Cassaday. Poor Joss sounds terrible, he was really sick, but there he was signing autographs and taking pictures. He was swarmed. I shook his hand and Saxon took our picture. We invited him over to room 113 but left him to the rest of the folks. We walked back and not even 15 minutes later we saw John and Joss walking up the hall to our room. I made sure to let folks know Joss was coming and we cleared a path in front of the door. They entered and the room was now exceeding maximum capacity with a throng outside. I stayed outside so I did not hear anything he said. Joss Whedon is an extraordinary man. I am very proud of what he does and how down to earth he is. We think he is great but he is also a regular guy who really appreciates our efforts. After Joss left, the shirts Alan donated were raffled off. I wish I won that shirt.

The Northern California Browncoats did an excellent job organizing everything. They are a great team.

San Diego Comic Con 2013 Complete Report w/Pics

San Diego Comic Con 2013 Report

Absowonderful ComicCon.

Check out this video on YouTube: I'm at the 45 min mark. http://youtu.be/njhsxrm9Cpo

Highlights: Thursday Meeting Richard Anderson/Oscar Goldman from Six Million Dollar Man. Friday Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Pilot Premiere; I had my first nerdgasm watching that. Saturday was the Thrilling Adventure Hour Day. Sunday the Nathan Fillion Panel at NerdHQ moderated by Alan Tudyk at 45 min mark I ask a question, watch:http://youtu.be/njhsxrm9Cpo

Wednesday

I went to sleep at 1:30am I woke up at 5am. I carpooled with Mom to Anaheim and picked up the train there. My sister Carol wouldn’t be able to join me until Thursday. I really love taking the train. It is a way better way to travel, very pretty and relaxing.

When I arrived headed over to the Marriott for my first Starbucks of the day. Then I went to help the California Browncoat's booth. They didn't need me but I hung around for awhile. I couldn't check in until 3pm so afterwards I hung out at the Omni and I saw Zachary Levi walking by through the window. I waited until3pm to get my badge. I was out in 13 minutes then I went to my hotel, finally made it to my room. I grabbed some food and relaxed.

It's very important to pace yourself.

Thursday

I woke up at 5:30 am which for me is sleeping in. The continental breakfast starts at 6 am. I shared a room with my friend Pamela and her 2 kids Robert and Danielle. We’ve been rooming together since 2007.  Pamela has trouble standing for long times and has a disabled person attendant badge. I used it Thursday and that is how we got in early to Ballroom 20. As soon as I got in, I got out to get a restroom pass. I needed to connect with my sister Carol. She arrived Thursday morning and was getting her badge. I walked around the Sails Pavilion to see who was there. Various actors will set up a table and sell their autographs. I saw the sign for Richard Anderson. I thought not Richard Dean Anderson. Of course not, but when I saw who it was I was magically transported back to my childhood watching Oscar Goldman on the Six Million Dollar Man. He was the handler for the Six Million Dollar Man. I was star struck. I walked up, in awe, big smile; he saw me and smiled. I told him it was an honor and I was a fan. I shook his hand and he kissed mine. I told him I was looking for my sister, but I would be back. So off I went. Finally I saw her and her friend Andrew. He had a nice camera so he took a wonderful picture of Richard Anderson and me. I told him I wanted a picture and they told me it cost money since sometimes they don’t. I said I know I have money and I showed her my $20. 

I returned to Ballroom 20 just in time, CBS has a new show that the presenter nicknamed Cyber Sawyer, the show is called Intelligence. It stars Josh Holloway with a great cast. It was the best pilot I've seen up to then. Most times you have to make allowances. This one was really strong out of the gate. I really enjoyed the CW's Star-Crossed Matt Lanter plays the Atrian or Tattie as they are called. He was brilliant on the panel. Someone asked the producers a question which stumped them and Matt just came in with an articulate answer; very smart and talented guy. Then I watched the Beauty and the Beast Panel. Love the show and enjoyed the panel. The Beast, Jay Ryan is from Auckland, New Zealand and it just bothered me that he sounded different; very talented and personable as well as handsome.

Then we tagged out. I used the bathroom pass and allowed Pamela's son in and she let his friend in who is a big Sherlock fan. Its hard sitting and watching video and panels it’s over stimulation. We came back in time for the X-Files 20th Anniversary Panel. I confess that I only watched a few eps. I missed the boat on this phenomenon. My sister Perla was the real fan. I was happy to see Chris Carter, David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. It was a nice panel. I may be biased or lack perspective but as a Firefly Fan I feel our 10th Anniversary Panel had more love. *shrugs* With nowhere else to go we stayed for Entertainment Weekly's Brave New Warriors. Matt Smith, Dr. Who was one. It was nice to see him. Tyler Posey from Teen Wolf was so incredible I feel I am missing out by not watching it. Kit Harington from Game of Thrones, Steven Yeun from Walking Dead and David Giuntoli from Grimm were on the panel as well. All the guys were entertaining but Tyler I became a fan of at this panel.  The next panel was Teen Wolf and that sealed it. Great Cast must be a great show. That was it for Ballroom 20. It was a long tiring. Day 1 of Comic Con couldn't believe it was the first day.

Friday 

I woke up early and arrived outside for the general admittance line at 6 am.

My friend Pamela went with her son to try to get in to Hall H. Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead were having panels in there. It was all about Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. in Ballroom 20 for me. I was alone but expecting friends, unfortunately for them they did not arrive in time and once we entered I was unable to get them into the Ballroom 20 line. So I made line buddies. I really needed Starbucks. So I asked who wanted some to hold my spot. That is how I met my new line buddy Mike. He said he would save it because I was a Whedonite. I was wearing a Serenity sweatshirt I bought from Jason Palmer, as well as my lanyard full of Firefly buttons. So off I went. It took longer to get back in. I had to get out and go next door to get my Starbucks at the Marriott. I took a pic w/ Spongebob Squarepants and Patrick. Unfortunately my phone camera lens is scratched so i came out like this.

Finally came back and found Mike and his friends. He was their guide to Comic Con and he bought tickets to lots of things. He was impressively prepared and eager to take care of his friends. Then I overheard him say he had tickets to the Nathan Fillion Panel at Nerd HQ but that conflicted with some stuff. I raised my hand and offered to buy them if he didn't need them. Mike said he would get back to me if that was the case. I gave Mike his choice of Firefly buttons and he chose Mal. Time flew quickly and we parted once we got in. I sat in the 4th row but off to the side in front of a big screen. 

The lineup for Ballroom 20 was Inside The Big Bang Theory Writers' Room, followed by Nickolodeon's Legend of Korra Returns; then the Bones Panel and finally Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Panel. That is all I saw. The Cast of the Big Bang Theory was working on other projects but Melissa Rauch was able to come and she moderated. The Panel suffered because of the lack of Cast. They went to Q&A and a bounty hunter from Return of the Jedi's asked a question in full costume. It turns out it was Johnny Galecki. I am sure it's on You Tube. Johnny joined the panel and it improved significantly. The Legend of Korra, I watched the panel last year. It looks really good and I am looking forward to the new season. The artwork and music is beautiful and it’s funny; great storytelling. The next panel was Bones. I am not a fan of the show but I am a fan of David Boreanaz. He was very entertaining. David asked Emily to walk around the table to the front. The discussion was about a possible wedding. Then David gets down on one knee as Booth and proposes to Bones. It was very nice.

Finally it was time for Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Up to then I kept calling it the Avengers. The name just seemed too much. I have been a fan of Joss' work since '97. Firefly has been the best TV show ever since 2002.  Then I saw the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. pilot premiere. I had my first nerdgasm!!! The pilot was amazing, spectacular and I loved it. No spoilers, just saying it was awesome. This is Brett Dalton's first acting gig he is as talented as he is handsome. He could play James Bond someday. Ian de Caestecker and Elizabeth Henstridge are a dynamic duo as Fitz/Simmons. Chloe Bennett as Skye reminds me of young Summer Glau a lot so that is disconcerting to me. Great seeing J. August Richards back on TV. Ming Na Wen and Clark Gregg are wonderful as always. The thing about Joss Whedon for me is that not only has he NEVER disappointed me, he consistently soars above, even my, high expectations. Joss brings me great joy in his work. How he keeps getting better amazes me.

I left the Ballroom after that and went to pick up my tickets for The Thrilling Adventure Hour. For those who don't know what that is go to: http://thrillingadventurehour.com  and check them out. The live stage experience is not the same as the Podcast because their facial expressions play a large role. Saturday is all about The Thrilling Adventure Hour Show. I bought 8 tickets for Friday’s 7 pmshow. I had 2 tickets extra that I was unable to give away. Everyone had plans either for the Haven NerdHQ Panel or for the Marian Call Concert. In the end I asked the lady at the box office to be magical and give them to someone. A man in line was moved and said he hoped good karma would return to me; very sweet.

Words are inefficient to describe the show. It is truly an experience. I went the first time to see The Thrilling Adventure Hour show in LA because Nathan Fillion was a guest. I return because it's a guaranteed good time. Laughter is the best medicine and The Thrilling Adventure Hour has lots and lots of laughs. My only disappointment was that Frank and Sadie were not in Friday's show lucky for me Saturday's Show was different and my sister Carol bought tickets to the Saturday 9:30 pm + VIP Party. Our party of 6 was hungry so we walked to get something to eat. My guest were 9tiercel, Saxon, Ewok dressed as Harlequin, Carol and Chuckie. Walking with Ewok was slow since she kept stopping for pictures when asked. We ended up not eating and heading home. I was super tired.

Saturday

I woke up at 8:30 am. This was my sleeping in day. I was going to NerdHQ to the 11:30 ampanel for The Thrilling Adventure Hour. It was truly hilarious. The cast is entertaining and I had front row seats. I sat in front of Paul F. Tompkins and Marc Evan Jackson 2 of my favorites.

As an added bonus Nathan Fillion moderated the panel it was sheer entertainment. The really nice thing about Nerd HQ is it's not Comic Con. No need to get up early to line up. The hard part is buying a ticket but once you are in you have a seat at an intimate venue and the money goes to the charity Operation Smile. Alan Tudyk moderated Friday's Panels. Nathan moderated Saturday's Panels. Zachary Levi usually loses his voice so the guys pitched in. Here is the You Tube link of the panel: http://t.co/reuGEKAmQ1

After the panel I went to put my stuff in Carol and Chuckie's place. I planned to dress up later for the VIP Party. Once I got to the room I decided to rest since my phone needed to charge. I wanted to take it easy since I was planning a late night. I was getting hungry so I texted a few people to see who was available. I found my friends that I missed on Friday. We had lunch. I used to work with Roxanne for several years. I have been telling her about Comic Con since we met in 2005. Her son Jackson was able to get tickets. They were just coming for one day so he bought a Saturday ticket. Unfortunately those sold out so he bought them a Friday ticket. Roxanne and her other children Garry and Elisa were able to get in on Friday. Roxanne's husband Kevin and Jackson hung around outside Comic Con. Today Jackson and Elisa were inside and I had lunch with Garry, Kevin and Roxanne. It was Garry's birthday. I wanted to get him something. I led them to NERD HQ and we walked in just in time to take pics with Zachary Levi Smiles for Smiles another fundraiser for Operation Smile. We took 2 just in case. 

It was a nice surprise. I left them there and I made my way back to the Convention Center.

I made it into the Exhibit Hall. It was insane crowded, way too many people I needed to stop by the Browncoat Booth to see who was there. I found Fannish my friend from Australia. We left together. She was also going to The Thrilling Adventure Hour Show+ VIP Party and needed to pick up her tickets. Now I was tweeting on Wednesday about the fact that I love the random encounters at Cons, I love running into folks. One of my favorite random encounters is running into Brian Wiser. It has consistently happened at both Comic Con and Dragon Con for the past several years. So as I was walking Fannish to her place I discovered she was staying at a Condo with other known friends. One of them was Brian Wiser. It is always a surprise when it will happen but it happens. It turns out that he was one of the friends she was sharing her Condo with. I was really happy that it happened. I also ran into Rayhill and his wife Rae. Brian was not there when I arrived so I decided to hangout. I walked Fannish to the Box Office to pick up her tickets and then came back. Brian still wasn't there. But the look of shock on his face when he arrived was awesome and totally worth waiting for.

It was time to leave to get ready for the show. I lost 25 lbs since last Comic Con and bought a new dress. I was looking forward to the show and the party.

I had to miss Serenity in the Park from NerdHQ with live commentary by Nathan Fillion and Alan Tudyk. It was a hard choice because I am such a big fan of both but I was hoping that maybe they would stop by the VIP Party. Watching Serenity, a movie I was an extra in, with other Browncoats inside Petco Park Stadium with Nathan and Alan would have been a must event. But I already bought the tickets and was looking forward to spending time with the Cast in the after party. I knew I was choosing correctly. I was wishing for the opportunity to see Nathan and Alan but not in the Park. I was right, I laughed so hard I had a ball. I will never forget Molly Quinn's performance, she made sound effects. I just can't describe it and do it justice all I can say is I was happy I chose to see The Thrilling Adventure Hour and not Serenity in the Park. The Party was ok, it was a cash bar. I was hoping for some dancing but not so much. I was able to speak with both Paul F. Tompkins and Marc Evan Jackson as well as Mark Gagliardi and Paget Brewster. Paul was charming and I gotta say quite dashing, Marc was a sweetheart and good looking. We told him we took our mom to the show. Marc said earnestly to be sure to introduce her next time. I really love Marc's voice. Mark Gagliardi I told him I had seen him pop up on the Disney Channel show Austin and Ally, my niece was watching. I recognized him immediately and was very happy to see him on TV. He is also quite handsome. We ran into Paget on our way out. I really need to say hi to her because she is just so wonderful on stage. Carol and I walked back to our hotel and then she went out again. She is 23 and I am not. So I was happy to end the night. 

Sunday

I woke up early because it was Sunday and I go to church on Sundays. It was good I stayed with my sister because I was able to get walk to St. Joseph's Cathedral and go to 7am Mass. I am definitely more of a morning person. It's was nice walking early in the morning. After Mass I had to go back to my place to pack my stuff. I bought 2 train tickets for 8:24 pm. The plan was to see Much Ado About Nothing before going home. I contacted my line buddy Mike Saturday about the Nathan Fillion NerdHQ Panel tickets. Mike texted back that he had tickets for me and that he would meet me across from the Marvel booth at 10 am. So I hopped on the trolley and headed back to the Navy Lodge. I grabbed my stuff and went back to Carol and Chuckie's hotel to drop off my stuff and then I high tailed it as quickly as I could to meet Mike. The trolley runs every 30 minutes on Sunday so I was worried I would miss out on these tickets. I let Mike know I was running late and true to form he was generous and said he understood no rush he will wait. Our meeting spot was Bongo Comics right in front of the Marvel booth. Since he was there waiting I asked if he could try to get me an Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. poster. I finally reached Mike and paid for the tickets. He told me they ran out of posters...after he grabbed the last one. Mike is amazing. It was a sincere and genuine delight meeting him. Unfortunately I didn't get to spend more time with him but we did exchange numbers. As Mike said, Whedonites need to stick together. I offered Mike another button and this time he chose Serenity. Now I had to hurry for the 11 am Nathan Fillion Panel at NerdHQ and it was already 10:20 am. However I had to make a stop at the Jason Palmer booth. First I needed to protect my Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. poster and replenish my buttons.  I've known Jason and Yelena since 2003 when I bought Jason's first Firefly Crew Print. I bought many pieces over the years.

After taking a pic of one of their assistants Corinne, Jason and Yelena Palmer, I left very quickly and walked over to NerdHQ. I was really excited to see Nathan again and I was hoping that Alan Tudyk was moderating. The tickets I bought were not together but one was the first row so I took that one. It was just magic when Alan Tudyk walked out to start the panel. My wish was granted. Alan and Nathan together are always entertaining.

The audience roared for Alan and then finally Nathan Fillion walked out. One chair was in the middle of the stage and the other was off to the side. These 2 guys are so tight that I knew that the other chair would need to be next to Nathan's. Nathan looked over at the chair confused and then Alan moved it over. I can never remember everything about these panels. So I am thankful that this one lives in You Tube. I have met both Nathan and Alan so many times that they recognize me. I have been a long time fan and have made an impression. I went to the taping of a pilot Alan was doing and he spoke about me at a Convention in Australia! He was telling the audience about how I went so if it was picked up they could come see it too. Nathan is always a sweetheart and I think he just gets a kick out of the fact that he knows me by name and of course that I was in the movie. So I tell people Nathan and Alan know me but I always think maybe people think I have delusions of grandeur. That people think the guys are just being nice to me and they really don't know who I am but play along. Well now I have proof that they do know me.

Check out this video of the Nathan Panel on You Tube: Go to the 45 min mark I am the next person to ask a question. http://youtu.be/njhsxrm9Cpo

I love not only that Nathan remembered me but the sound of his voice and his smile it was sheer joy for me. My favorite part is when he interrupts me to tell everyone I was in the movie. Then his enjoyment at my answer was wonderful. I notice that Alan was the first to notice me as Nathan is trying to locate me. I love that Alan is answering me and looking at me as he gives his answer. I was happy with my speech and my questions. The fact I was articulate and I remembered to include my sister in the interaction was awesome. It was a wonderful moment I will never forget and if I never get that close to them again I am ok with that. I have already been blessed abundantly. It's been 4 years since I last spoke with Alan. I am always hopeful but someday will be my last visit. This was a great one and I am ok if this was the last one, I would be going out on a high note. Both Nathan and Alan are rising stars and soon they will be out of reach.

I was hoping to get back to NerdHQ and get a picture taken with both Nathan and Alan but unfortunately I ran into a bit of bad luck. We had to go back to the hotel because Carol and Chuckie still needed to pack. It turns out that Chuckie did not know about the fact that Amtrak was requiring reservations. I checked online and saw that every train was sold out. Then I pulled out my ticket and realized I bought tickets for the 8:24 AM!!! Suddenly we had to find a ride home. Chuckie called her parents to see if they wanted to come pick us up. Dad said no then suggested we rent a car. I called around and tweeted about our need. We left our bags with the bell desk at the hotel and inquired about renting a car. It was a little more than we wanted to pay so we decided to go to the train station to see if there was anything they could do for us. All that they were able to do is reimburse me for my missed trains so at least that was a little something.

After the leaving the train station we walked over to the Gaslamp Theatre to buy Chuckie's ticket for Much Ado About Nothing. This was my 9th time and Carol and Chuckie's first time. By this time I was getting really hungry. On our way to the theatre we passed this place with a nice older lady who was soliciting business. The place was called Casablanco and it offered Mediterranean African food. It was really really good food. As we walked around and ate we all reached out and finally Chuckie found someone who was leaving at 8pm so that was perfect, plenty of time to watch our movie and get back to the hotel and wait for our hero Bobby.  He spent his time in Hall H so he was able to give us info on all that we missed. I tried to keep Bobby talking because we were all tired and would have fallen asleep if possible. I finally got home at 10:30pm, Home Sweet Home.  It was a weird feeling. I was super tired but super happy I was still flying high from seeing Nathan and Alan earlier in the day. I found out a favorite show of mine was cancelled, Bunheads, but I could not fathom it. I was too happy to become sad.

I was very very fortunate to get tickets to the Con. I am not sure if I will be so lucky next year but I decided that if I don’t get tickets I will either still come down anyway or go on vacation elsewhere. I will not stay home wishing to be at Comic Con. It is an amazing experience but really wears me out and I spend too much money. I need more money. Dragon Con is next and that is really my very favorite Con. I hang out with my East Coast friends and they have Dragon Con Parade on Saturday. It is less insane than Comic Con and I love it a lot. I already bought my air and have a place to stay. Dragon Con here I come.

San Diego Comic Con 2013 part 3 Sunday

Sunday

I woke up early because it was Sunday and I go to church on Sundays. It was good I stayed with my sister because I was able to get walk to St. Joseph's Cathedral and go to 7am Mass. I am definitely more of a morning person. It's was nice walking early in the morning. After Mass I had to go back to my place to pack my stuff. I bought 2 train tickets for 8:24 pm. The plan was to see Much Ado About Nothing before going home. I contacted my line buddy Mike Saturday about the Nathan Fillion NerdHQ Panel tickets. Mike texted back that he had tickets for me and that he would meet me across from the Marvel booth at 10 am. So I hopped on the trolley and headed back to the Navy Lodge. I grabbed my stuff and went back to Carol and Chuckie's hotel to drop off my stuff and then I high tailed it as quickly as I could to meet Mike. The trolley runs every 30 minutes on Sunday so I was worried I would miss out on these tickets. I let Mike know I was running late and true to form he was generous and said he understood no rush he will wait. Our meeting spot was Bongo Comics right in front of the Marvel booth. Since he was there waiting I asked if he could try to get me an Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. poster. I finally reached Mike and paid for the tickets. He told me they ran out of posters...after he grabbed the last one. Mike is amazing. It was a sincere and genuine delight meeting him. Unfortunately I didn't get to spend more time with him but we did exchange numbers. As Mike said, Whedonites need to stick together. I offered Mike another button and this time he chose Serenity. Now I had to hurry for the 11 am Nathan Fillion Panel at NerdHQ and it was already 10:20 am. However I had to make a stop at the Jason Palmer booth. First I needed to protect my Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. poster and replenish my buttons.  I've known Jason and Yelena since 2003 when I bought Jason's first Firefly Crew Print. I bought many pieces over the year.

After taking a pic of the Jason and Yelena Palmer and one of their assistants Corinne, I left very quickly and walked over to NerdHQ. I was really excited to see Nathan again and I was hoping that Alan Tudyk was moderating. The tickets I bought were not together but one was the first row so took that one. It was just magic when Alan Tudyk walked out to start the panel. My wish was granted. Alan and Nathan together are always entertaining. The audience roared for Alan and then finally Nathan Fillion walked out. One chair was in the middle of the stage and the other was off to the side. These 2 guys are so tight that I knew that the other chair would need to be next to Nathan's. Nathan looked over at the chair confused and then Alan moved it over. I can never remember everything about these panels. So I am thankful that this one lives in You Tube. I have met both Nathan and Alan so many times that they recognize me. I have been a long time fan and have made an impression. I went to the taping of a pilot Alan was doing and he spoke about me at a Convention in Australia! He was telling the audience about how I went so if it was picked up they could come see it too. Nathan is always a sweetheart and I think he just gets a kick out of the fact that he knows me by name and of course that I was in the movie. So I tell people Nathan and Alan know me but I always think maybe people think I have delusions of grandeur. That people think the guys are just being nice to me and they really don't know who I am but play along. Well now I have proof that they do know me.

Check out this video of the Nathan Panel on You Tube: Go to the 45 min mark I am the next person to ask a question. http://youtu.be/njhsxrm9Cpo

I love not only that Nathan remembered me but the sound of his voice and his smile it was sheer joy for me. My favorite part is when he interrupts me to tell everyone I was in the movie. Then his enjoyment at my answer was wonderful. I notice that Alan was the first to notice me as Nathan is trying to locate me. I love that Alan is answering me and looking at me as he gives his answer. I was happy with my speech and my questions. The fact I was articulate and I remembered to include my sister in the interaction was awesome. It was a wonderful moment I will never forget and if I never get that close to them again I am ok with that. I have already been blessed abundantly. It's been 4 years since I last spoke with Alan. I am always hopeful but someday will be my last visit. This was a great one and I am ok if this was the last one, I would be going out on a high note. Both Nathan and Alan are rising stars and soon they will be out of reach.

I was hoping to get back to Nerd HQ and get a picture taken with both Nathan and Alan but unfortunately I ran into a bit of bad luck. We had to go back to the hotel because Carol and Chuckie still needed to pack. It turns out that Chuckie did not know about the fact Amtrak was requiring reservations. I checked online and saw that every train was sold out. Then I pulled out my ticket and realized I bought tickets for the 8:24 AM!!! Suddenly we had to find a ride home. Chuckie called her parents to see if they wanted to come pick us up. Dad said no then suggested we rent a car. I called around and tweeted about our need. We left our bags with the bell desk at the hotel and inquired about renting a car. It was a little more than we wanted to pay so we decided to go to the train station to see if there was anything they could do for us. All that they were able to do is reimburse me for my missed trains so at least that was a little something.

After the leaving the train station we walked over to the Gaslamp Theatre to buy Chuckie's ticket for Much Ado About Nothing. This was my 9th time and Carol and Chuckie's first time. By this time I was getting really hungry. On our way to the theatre we passed this place with a nice older lady who was soliciting business. The place was called Casablanco and it offered Meditteranean African food. It was really really good food. As we walked around and ate we all reached out and finally Chuckie found someone who was leaving at 8pm so that was perfect plenty of time to watch our movie and get back to the hotel and wait for our Hero Bobby.  He spent his time in Hall H so he was able to give us info on all that we missed. I tried to keep Bobby Talking because we were all tired and would have fallen asleep if possible. I finally got home at 10:30pm, Home Sweet Home.  It was a weird feeling. I was super tired but super happy I was still flying high from seeing Nathan and Alan earlier in the day. I found out a favorite show of mine was cancelled, Bunheads, but I could not fathom it. I was too happy to become sad.

I was very very fortunate to get tickets to the Con. I am not sure if I will be so lucky next year but I decided that if I don’t get tickets I will either still come down anyway or go on vacation elsewhere. I will not stay home wishing to be at Comic Con. It is an amazing experience but really wears me out and I spend too much money. I need more money. Dragon Con is next and that is really my very favorite Con. I hang out with my East Coast friends and they have Dragon Con Parade on Saturday. It is less insane that Comic Con and I love it a lot. I already bought my air and have a place to stay. Dragon Con here I come.