Anime Central 2007 was one convention to remember. Many memories and many surprises. Among these surprises was several of our Californian friends - Sana, Richii, Albert, and Lionel. It was great seeing the Golden State represented. It was also nice to see familiar faces like Steve Bennett, Yaya Han, and Brianna (daughter included). 

It seems like the shinigami took over the village of Rosemont. Bleach out did Naruto, Full Metal Alchemist, and One Piece. It seems like everyday was a Bleach gathering. I was very happy to debut new costumes and pairings. Ayaka Kisaragi (Phantom Quest Corps) took years in the planning stages, but now that I have sewing skills, I finally completed one of my dream costumes. As always, I was very happy to have Tom by my side as my cosplay partner. To commemorate this milestone for us, I bought us Full Metal Alchemist cell phone mascots to put on our cameras. I have a Riza and he has a Roy.

On the flight home, I compiled a list of the positive and negatives of Anime Central. The positives totally outweighed the negatives. We had a negative experience with press areas for masquerade. For one thing, video cameras were set off to the side. This doesn't give any of us videographers a good shot of the event. We would have preferred a better arrangement for photo ops and video taping. Tom and I agreed that the acoustics were not the best either. At some points, it was hard hearing people. Otherwise, from what I could understand, I did enjoy Issac's final bout as masquerade MC.

Of course, it was seeing friends again - especially Jen - the last of the ACen 2001 Amateur Voice Acting group. I've learned to let go of the past and move forward. That's one important lesson Anime Central 2007 taught me. We keep hoping for the madness that was ACen 2001, but it's never gonna happen again. I can finally accept that. I enjoyed ACen 2007 as it was - a wonderful con creating more wonderful memories with friends - especially with Tom. I was glad to do more traveling with him.

Of course, more thanks goes out to Patrick Gould. Thank you for everything you have provided Tom and I. It is very much appreciated. I wish I could be a groomsman so I can spend more time with you and Tom. (Not to mention, I look good in a tux!) I cannot begin to find the words to express how thankful Tom and I are for your gratitude and hospitality. Thanks goes to Jen for putting up with Tom and I again as hotel roommates. I'm sorry to hear that the Hyatt was giving you trouble. Thanks goes to Will (aka - my daughter) for helping out Tom and I get in as press.

I miss Chicago already. Yet, I only realize this is only the beginning of Traveling Valentine's crazy adventures. Let's hope that I get a job sometime soon so we can go on more out of state crazy adventures. Tom and I agreed that we should swing by Anime Central next year if we can find people to room with. In a time when I was having doubts about this hobby, Anime Central only made me realize that it's the friends I have - Tom, Jen, Will, Patrick, and many others - are the ones that keep this hobby what it is for me. That's what makes it simply the best.

Pictures are copyright by Victoria Erica. If I took your picture, feel free to use it on your site or cosplay gallery. If you want me to remove something, kindly email me. While you're here, do sign the guestbook. This site was brought to you by the font Ren and Stimpy.