No Brand Con 2022

Left to Right: Self, Drachenai Cosplay, Timeline Cosplay

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This year's NoBrand was not planned at all for me. I was still on bed rest but was told I could do light walking around and limited activity. So we jumped at driving down to NoBrand to visit friends and family. When we got there it was a quick run-through registration, then signing up and changing into my suit for my cosplay contest pre-judging.

My personal rule is twice for each cosplay to walk the stage, I didn't have much faith in Cc ever placing, she is a simple cosplay, and although made exquisitely isn't as big as what other cosplays one may see during a contest. Thankfully she still fit decently, I had been extremely worried as I was only 5 weeks postpartum, and many other articles hadn't fit properly yet.

Judging went quickly for me, as I've competed in Cc before my "pitch" if you will, is well rehearsed and I can zip through the build details and questions with ease. She is a cosplay that I dearly love and can't wait to bring to another con. After judging finished I met up with Drachenai and Timeline to peruse the Dealer's hall, have a snack, and catch up. During my year away I didn't get to see them for quite some time and it was refreshing to sit with some drinks and faff about our lives and craft.

The contest itself went smoothly, getting to talk to my fellow contestants and being able to check out everyone's craft felt divine. My stage walk felt a bit off to me, but to be fair, it had been quite some time and I was still in a bit of pain. It made the walk fun, a bit difficult, but very memorable. Though I will admit I wasn't expecting to feel so winded stepping down from the stage.

The Halftime show was a fun little comedy sketch, getting to relax on the opposite side of the stage made me miss being backstage for some reason. After it all, I came out with 1st Place Masters!! The shock and excitement were a nice little rush, and I had a great laugh seeing the glittery certificate, it reminded me of the glittery skulls we gave out at AMKE2020. I couldn't resist poking fun at my friend, Laughing Rat about it being "glittery revenge".

Though I give my friends crap, I know Beth to be one of the most straight-laced judges I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with. Taking home this little trophy from all the judges at No Brand was an honor.