This picture was taken at Anime Expo 2012 (AX '12). Just looking at this makes me tired—it was my third convention in three different cities over a grueling six weeks. I was mentally checked out and running on fumes, a direct result of the relentless Con Marathon pace, all while navigating a major personal crisis.
You can see me in the dark suit, leaning against the pillar, trying desperately to snag a few minutes of rest. Even though it was tough, it wasn't a total loss: I was able to hang out with friends, and I served as a cosplay handler for a high-level cosplayer, which was a neat experience.
But honestly, at this point, my sights were fixed squarely on San Diego Comic-Con, which was only two weeks away.
Four cons in four different cities over eight weeks is an incredibly difficult challenge, especially when compounded by personal crises. It was a tough time, but the life experience I gained from pushing through was absolutely crucial and much needed.
