Tuesday Top Ten – Things You Should Know Before Getting a Fandom Tattoo

August 18, 2015August 18, 20151 Comment

I know that its been awhile since I’ve done a Tuesday Top Ten and I feel bad about that. I’ve been so busy and I’m glad to be back and with such a fun topic. I love tattoos. I love getting them, information pills I love having them and I love showing them off. I admit, buy summer is usually my favorite time of the year because I don’t have to bundle up and cover it and my tattoos can be seen. I love when people see them, healing and I really love that I can see them. I get them for myself first and foremost, so I love having them show.

That being said! I’ve had a lot of people come to me and ask me for advice over the past few years, and I thought, you know what, I’m going to do a Tuesday Top Ten talking about getting a tattoo and the things you should know!

1. Research Your Artist

This seems like a common sense to me, but you’d be surprised how many people just don’t do this. Its important to feel comfortable with the person that you’re getting a tattoo from. They should have a good reputation, work in a clean tattoo shop, and all of that sort of thing. But they also should be on the same page as you when it comes to your vision and what you want. Not all tattoo artists are the same! I use the same artist for a good chunk of my tattoos but I know that I won’t always be going to him, because there might be some tattoos that he might not feeling comfortable doing. Do your research for sure!

This is also important: be VERY clear on what you want. Bring pictures, examples, all of that. Make sure you and your artist are on the same page about what you want. Vague descriptions, “I don’t really know what I want”, that sort of thing is just frustrating to an artist. Give them something and work together to create something that you’re going to love and that they feel 100% comfortable tattooing.

2. More Money, Better Quality

Again, should be common sense. But again, people don’t put the time to think about this. You’re going to be spending a good amount of money. Most shops have a minimum of about 60 to 80 dollars, no matter how small the tattoo is. Please be aware of that. Your tattoo artist, for the most part, is not trying to rip you off. You are definitely going to get what you paid for, so pay more! You are spending money on the quality of the tattoo and this should be incredibly important to you as its going to be on your body forever!

3. Put Some Time and Thought Into It

This is huge to me. I don’t believe that every single tattoo on your body should have some deep soulful meaning. I don’t. I think tattoos can be there just because you want them, or just because you appreciate the artistic value of them. Either way, you still should think before you get one. Put some thought into it, especially if its a fandom tattoo. Is this something you want on your body forever? Is it something that, even if you don’t like later, you can look back onto fondly? I may not always love the book series I’ve permanently etched on my skin but right now, they mean so much to me and I’ll remember that when I’m older. Give some thought to what you want!

4. Location!

THIS IS HUGE! This is incredibly huge and you need to think about this. The location is incredibly important when getting a tattoo. One, you need to make sure that you have enough space available for what you’re hoping to get tattooed. Don’t think you can get something huge on your arm if you have noodle arms. Be realistic.

You also have to think of it because of potential job situations. I would never judge anyone who has visible tattoos…I have plenty! But if you’re looking to go into something that looks down on visible tattoos (though I think that’s becoming more and more rare), you need to weigh how much you want your tattoo in that location versus how important that career choice is for you. You should also keep in mind that while a job might be okay with a visible tattoo, do you want to present a huge Pikachu on your bicep to the people you will be interacting with at work.

Lastly, you need to think of the pain. That’ll be covered more below but location is huge when it comes to pain and pain tolerance.

5. Its Going to Hurt

Yup. It is. Don’t let anyone tell you that its not. Tattoo artists use anywhere from one to many needles at one time, and yes, they’re stabbing at your skin over and over again.

What’s great about this is…I personally think its not nearly as bad as people make it out to be, at least in the locations that I’ve gotten tattoos so far. Some areas hurt more than others. Places that are more muscly or bony tend to hurt more. My thigh and ankle were the worst places for me and I keep putting off my rib tattoo because I’m not quite sure I can handle it. But all of my other tattoos were mildly painful but definitely tolerable. Be aware of this. Know which locations hurt more than others when deciding where to get your tattoo and keep that in mind. If you have a low pain tolerance, I wouldn’t suggest getting your tattoo in a spot where its going to be incredibly painful! That or be very prepared to feel that pain. In the end, for me, the pain is always worth it because of the beautiful piece of artwork left behind. Also! Talk to your artist; they will take breaks, and give your skin a breather if that’s what you need!

6. Trust Your Artist!

Yes please do! These people have spent years doing what they do. They must apprentice and learn all the different aspects of tattooing and running a tattoo shop. They draw and draw and draw and practice and practice and practice before they even tattoo somebody. This is a trade, just like any other trade that has to spend time learning and they know best. If they suggest something, you need to listen. This is why researching your artist is very important. Find someone who sees your vision and gives it to you in a very practical way. This is not only going on your body, but this is something that is under their belt and they want to be proud of it. They know better than we do. Of course, don’t give up everything you want! Just like with everything, there is a compromise. Listen to your artist, tell them what you want and work together to come up with the best tattoo for you!

7. Tips, Tips, Tips

Its so simple: tip your artist. They work hard! They draw out the design for you, they make sure its on straight, which canNOT be an easy task, and they spend a lot of time, hours, multiple sessions, bent over, making sure your tattoo comes out perfect. Its simple. Just tip them. They deserve it!

8. There is Long Term Care

Please remember this! You don’t just get to walk out of a tattoo shop, and wham, you’re done. There’s a lot of care going into a tattoo. When you first get it, you need to do everything your artist tells you to do in order to make sure it heals right. Keep it out of the sun, lotion it up, all that good stuff. This is important to make sure that it heals correctly. But also remember, after it heals, you still need to take care of it! Sunscreen will keep it safe from sunburns and fading, and lotioning it up will make it look shiny, and soft and new! Also keep in mind that you will be putting more money into that tattoo over the years, to keep it looking fresh! Touch ups are necessary. Tattoos are something you need to care for, so its definitely something you need to keep in mind!

9. Its Addicting

People always joke, oh tattoos are so addicting. I remember laughing and thinking, no way! I just want a few and I’m good at that. Fourteen tattoos and a million more ideas later…and I would agree with that assessment. I’m not saying that’s going to be you! But do keep in mind that you just might be bit by the tattoo bug. I’m happy to be a part of the club though, so if you do get a little addicted, there’s nothing wrong with that. Remember: its your body!

10. Be Confident

This one I put on here especially because of fandom tattoos. People are NOT going to understand. Fandom people will and its awesome to get compliments on my Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Star Wars and other nerdy tattoos. It really is. But not everyone is going to think that. Now maybe I’ve had bad experiences with it. I’ve had people judging me, making fun of me, telling me I’m going to regret getting Harry Potter tattoos and all sorts of just mean and negative things, but here’s what I’m going to tell you: who cares? Be confident. If you are happy and satisfied with your tattoo, rock it! Its your body, not anyone else’s and you are the one that should be happy with it. It does suck to have someone tear you down for something like that but I look at my tattoos and I see how awesome they are and I love where they are and all of that and I rock it. I remember that this is my body and not theirs and I’m happy with them. If you’re happy with what you have put on your body, then that’s all that matters…and to me, it makes it that much easier to not have any regret about them.

* * * * *

So those are my ten little bits of advice about getting a fandom tattoo…or any tattoo really. I will never pretend to be an expert but after fourteen tattoos, I am more and more comfortable when going under the needle. I am always here for advice or any of that, and if you live around me, I’m always always always up for a trip to the tattoo parlor!

Happy Tuesday everyone! Don’t forget to share your awesome tattoos with me!

Book Review: Nash by Jay Crownover

August 5, 2015August 5, 2015Leave a comment

Genre:

New Adult, buy more about Contemporary, Romance

Pages:

302 pages

Part of a Series?:

Book #4 in The Marked Men Series

Release Date:

April 29th, 2014

You Can Find the Book At:

GoodReads Summary:

Will their past determine their future?

Saint Ford has worked hard to achieve her childhood dream of becoming of nurse. Focused on her work and devoted to her patients, there’s no room for love. She doesn’t need a guy making waves in her calm, serene life—especially when he’s the unforgettable hottie who nearly destroyed her in high school. Dark, brooding Nash Donovan might not remember her or the terrible pain he caused. But he turned her world upside down… and now he’s trying to do it again.

Saint has no idea that Nash isn’t the cocky player he once was. Uncovering a devastating family secret has rocked his world, and now he’s struggling to figure out his future. He can’t be distracted by the pretty nurse he seems to meet everywhere. Still, he can’t ignore the sparks that fly between them —or how she seems so desperate to get away from him. But the funny, sweet, and drop-dead gorgeous Saint is far too amazing to give up on—especially since she’s the only thing in his life that seems to make sense.

When Nash discovers the truth about their past, he realizes he may have lost her heart before he could even fight for it. Now, Saint has to decide: is Nash worth risking herself for all over again?

My Review:

So besides Jet, I think Nash ended up being my favorite in this series. I absolutely love the story of Saint and Nash. Oh I love it so much. By this book, I knew that I was completely sold on this series. Done. Over. I’m a huge fan and I’m ready to just lay down my heart to the Marked Men. And then here’s Nash to just make me fall massively in love with him.

Saint isn’t as much my favorite as Nash but I can see her, I can relate to her. Simple words said when she was in high school have had an affect on her for her entire life. Her entire life! That’s incredible. But it feels very very real. Words have an insane power over us, both good and bad. Sometimes, I think, especially the bad. Which is what happens to Saint, and what makes it worse, those words are said by none other than Nash himself.

Then you have Nash, who is revealed to be the son of the man he thought was his uncle his entire life. And as he’s finding out this incredible truth, which feels like a punch in the gut because Nash already saw him as a father figure and feels betrayed, he also finds out the guy is dying. Legit dying. And it brings a lot of things into perspective. After drinking himself into a stupor and then being “saved” by Saint…the two of them just keep running into each other. Its magnetic. They’re obviously meant to be together.

I think the best part of this book, to me at least, is the way they are brought together. How their insecurities and the drama going on in their lives and both of their tendencies to be scared at times gets in the way but they just keep getting pulled back together. They have an incredibly beautiful romance and I love Nash from page one to the very last page of this series. Because even as his world is being turned upside down and he finds out he has a father, and he has to take over Marked and open up a whole new shop, and all of this, he just takes it. He goes with it in the best way he can and he makes it work. And he falls in love along the way.

Only book four and the feels are real…stay tuned for books five and six…

Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Book Review: Rule by Jay Crownover

July 11, 2015July 11, 20152 Comments

Genre:

New Adult, tadalafil Contemporary, for sale Romance

Pages:

327 pages

Part of a Series?:

The first novel in the Marked Men Series

Release Date:

December 30th, this site 2012

You Can Find the Book At:

GoodReads Summary:

Opposites in every way . . . except the one that matters

Shaw Landon loved Rule Archer from the moment she laid eyes on him. Rule is everything a straight-A pre-med student like Shaw shouldn’t want—and the only person she’s never tried to please. She isn’t afraid of his scary piercings and tattoos or his wild attitude. Though she knows that Rule is wrong for her, her heart just won’t listen.

To a rebel like Rule Archer, Shaw Landon is a stuck-up, perfect princess-and his dead twin brother’s girl. She lives by other people’s rules; he makes his own. He doesn’t have time for a good girl like Shaw-even if she’s the only one who can see the person he truly is.

But a short skirt, too many birthday cocktails, and spilled secrets lead to a night neither can forget. Now, Shaw and Rule have to figure out how a girl like her and a guy like him are supposed to be together without destroying their love . . . or each other.

My Review:

I’m going to admit it. This book was incredibly hard for me to get into. I’m not sure if it was because my friends had built it up so much for me so I had a hard time being like “OMG YES” or what. But it took me a long time to get into this book.

I like the story and I like the premise. I like the characters a lot. I think the biggest problem that I had with each of them was how incredibly broken both of them are. I like my characters broken, for sure, because you need character development and you need them to get better, and fix each other, especially in a romance but there were times when I just wanted to punch both of them in the face because they were just TOO broken for me. I think I like my characters a little less broken haha. I’m not really sure what I mean by that but I guess it was just maybe too dramatic for me.

That being said, I did like the romance between the two main characters, despite the drama outside of that with both of their families. I liked that there was this give and take, this back and forth. You kind of want to scream at them because they’re so different and on paper, they make absolutely no sense whatsoever but they’re so perfect at the same time and they see it but they sabotage it. Its a fantastically written romance. That is something that Jay just rocks at. She creates this incredibly sexy characters, characters that you really do love and she creates this heartbreaking romance between the two and you just want to scream, I SHIP IT and MAKE IT WORK ALREADY. Literally. That’s how I feel.

And those sex scenes? Holy. Crap. Someone fetch me a bucket of cold water because a mere splash on my face is just not going to be enough for me at all. She creates these just incredible scenes. Now that I’m writing my own new adult romance, I know exactly who to go to for inspiration for sex scenes. Seriously. My. God.

Plus tattoos. Oh god tattoos. Nothing sexier than a tattooed one. She really won me over with that. And piercings! I never thought I’d be into that but yes. Definitely yes.

So in the end, I definitely liked this book. I didn’t totally love it but I did like it. It didn’t make me rush out to read the other books which is hilarious because I actually ended up loving the second book, Jet, so much. But anyway. Great story and romance and all that but a little too dramatic for my tastes. Check out my review for Jet to see more ;) Plus I’m currently reading book 3, Rome!

Rating:

3.5 out of 5 Stars

2014: A What a Nerd Girl Says Recap of the Year!

January 3, 2015April 10, 2020Leave a comment

Aw, yes. The year has come to an end. It is officially 2015. What a crazy year its been.

I’ve always prided myself in the closeness that I’ve had with all of you. I share with you. I could just write about books and events and all of that and leave it at that. But I share with you all and I know that you guys know that its been a rough year for me. Its one of the hardest years I’ve had to deal with. Trying to figure who I am and what I want, dropping out of school, finding a new job, losing the person I thought I was going to spend the rest of my life with, all of that. It was a hard year. There are times when I have to stop, take a deep breath and tell myself, Sara, its going to be okay. Its going to be okay.

But despite that, or perhaps because of it, I’m trying to find the good in all things. Not everything this year was terrible. In fact, there were many, many great things about this year, and that’s what this post is for, to remember all the amazing things I was able to experience this year.

And here’s to hoping that 2015 is even better.

JANUARY

Met Ransom Riggs and Tahereh Mafi…Officially

I had unofficially met them while at the City of Bones premiere, when I kind of attacked them in excitement. I officially met them at Ransom’s release of Hollow City and I’m so glad I did :)

Got My Divergent Tattoo

I had been wanting to get a Divergent tattoo for quite some time and I thought, now would be the time to do it, before the movie releases and it gets even bigger than it already is. So I did. And I love it.

I Met Penguins for the First Time

Possibly one of the most amazing days in my entire life. I am massively obsessed with penguins and I spent the entire day giggling and smiling and just being all around happy. It was such an amazing day.

FEBRUARY

Attended the Vampire Academy Meet and Greet, Music Party and Red Carpet Premiere

Zoey Deutch is one of my absolute biggest celebrity crushes and Rose Hathaway and the Vampire Academy books are some of my absolute favorites so this was an absolute fun time. Especially since I met both Zoey and Danila Kozlovsky.

Got My Vampire Academy Tattoo

I was so inspired by being around the Vampire Academy cast and fellow VA fans that I knew it was time to get my newest tattoo. Another addition to my body that I am so happy with. I know, its in the “wrong” spot. I couldn’t put it on the back of my neck because I already have something there!

Attended my Second Gallifrey One Convention

Best. Convention. Ever. I will continue to go to this convention as long as I can get a badge to that thing. I met Arthur Darvill and Billie Piper, which was just straight up mind blowing, and I partied all night and I was even on my first ever convention panel. All in all, GREAT weekend.

Attended Jessica Brody’s ‘Unforgotten’ Release Party

Always a good time to go and see Jessica Brody :) I was DYING to get my hands on this book and I went home and basically finished it that night.

Had an Amazing 26th Birthday Party

I got a year older, and celebrated some of my absolute favorite people in the entire world. I’m lucky to have such incredible friends.

MARCH

Met Willow Shields at the Catching Fire DVD Release!

A friend told me this was going on, I had the day off and I thought, hey, why not meet Willow Shields again :) A super ton of fun and now my Catching Fire blu-ray is signed and pretty.

Saw Set It Off in Concert, Met Them, Fell in Love with Them Even More

I saw these guys live when they opened for Story of the Year at the end of 2013. They were INCREDIBLE and a huge inspiration for the start, middle and end of me writing The Awakened. Seeing them play after falling so much in love with them was super awesome.

Met the awesome guys of Green Light Theory

These guys are the best. They played outside the Set it Off show to bring attention to their band, and they completely sold me on it. Plus they’re a great group of guys and I’m proud to call them my friends!

Was First in Line for the Divergent World Premiere

I got no sleep, was freezing, had more than a few frustrating moments but I had a ton of fun and met Theo James, Ansel Elgort, Kate Winslet, amongst a lot more and I got to show Veronica Roth my Divergent tattoo. I call that a win.

APRIL

Met Stephen Chbosky and debut author Ava Dellaira

I absolutely LOVED being able to meet Stephen again, who is just such an awesome person, besides just being a great author. Ava is a great addition to my ever growing list of authors that I love. She’s sweet, and totally talented and if you haven’t read Love Letters to the Dead yet, you’re crazy!

Attended Festival of Books, as a Member of the Press!

Was SO excited to be press, and all that it entails, and being able to meet such fantastic authors. I always have such a blast at this weekend event and this year was no different, especially since I was able to meet John Green, Rainbow Rowell, Deb Caletti, Marissa Meyer and so many more. A GREAT year at the fest.

Attended WonderCon 2014

My second year at WonderCon 2014 and I had a fantastic time. I absolutely love this con and I love how close it is to my own home. I met the cast of The 100, a show I didnt’ watch until recently but one that I totally love. And I got to hang out with a ton of great friends and meet authors like James Dashner, Kiera Cass and Frank Beddor.

Attended the FIRST Pasadena Teen Book Fest

Such an awesome new teen fest in Pasadena :) I had a blast meeting a ton of authors I’d never met before and being a part of the blog tour and blog team for this fest. Thanks to everyone who put this on and let me be a part of it. Andrew Smith was the honored guest of it and he’s so funny and I discovered a few new authors from this as well.

MAY

Saw Jamie Campbell Bower Live on Venice Beach

In the past year, Jamie has spent a lot of time with his band, The Darling Buds, writing new songs and playing them for everyone. He had done a pop up acoustic show in the UK and I was mean green with jealousy until he announced he would do one in NYC AND LA. I was SO excited and of course I made sure to be there!

Finally Met One of my Favorite Authors, Tammara Webber!

Immediately after I saw JCB on Venice Beach, my friends and I RACED to Glendale to meet Tammara Webber and Abbi Glines. I LOVE Tammara so so so much and I’m so glad to have made it to her signing. She’s a doll, and I use her as an inspiration a LOT.

Met Morgan Matson again and Met Jenny Han for the first time!

On Mother’s Day, both Morgan Matson and Jenny Han were doing a signing that I just couldn’t miss. So what did I do? I took my mom with me! Seeing Morgan again was fun, of course, and I fell absolutely in love with Jenny Han and immediately went home to read her new book, all in a matter of hours!

The All-Around Amazingness of Ontario Teen Book Fest 2014

I loved everything about this year’s Ontario Teen Book Fest just as I did last year. I loved being the blogger for it again and getting to know a bunch of absolutely fantastic authors. I loved the addition of the author speed dating and I loved being a part of this community. This fest means the world to me, and I will continue to be a part of it as long as I can! Also, I was in the program and that was awesome.

Rainbow Rowell Sends me a Postcard

YES! When I went to the Festival of Books, I wrote letters to John Green, Veronica Roth and Rainbow Rowell. I never ever expected anything back from them, but I wanted to know how much their books meant to me. When I received a postcard in the mail from Rainbow, I literally burst into tears. This was so sweet of her to answer me back, and I have this hanging on my wall as a reminder of the amazing authors that I admire.

Met Kiera Cass!

I had met Kiera Cass briefly at WonderCon but I was super excited to see her again, where I could spend more time with her and tell her how AWESOME The One was. Because seriously that book was incredible.

Read City of Heavenly Fire in 6 Hours

I was insanely anxious to see the end of this series that I love so much, so much that I rushed down to Walmart when my friend informed me that they had released it early and rushed home to read it as quickly as I could. Of course, I was massively disappointed in the ending but that’s a whole ‘nother story. At least I read fast ;)

Finished The Awakened!

I finished my novel. This was my number one goal of the year and I literally cried my eyes out when I did it. I was so proud of myself. I still am proud of myself. This novel took so much out of me, time and sacrifice and blood, sweat and tears. I worked HARD on this one and I continue to do so.

JUNE

Met Morgan Matson…Again…

I like to stalk Morgan Matson or something. Nah ;) I just absolutely love her and I’ll take any opportunity to meet her. Plus I hadn’t been able to get my copy of her Katie Finn book signed so I brought that along with me!

Saw The Darling Buds in Concert

After seeing JCB on the beach about a month earlier, his band announced they’d be playing a 21 and over show and I immediately got tickets for it, as did my friends. We had a blast going to it and we were able to meet all four members as well. AND I was finally able to get that picture will Lily Collins!

Girls Gone Sci-Fi Hits Mysterious Galaxy on Its Last Day

Hung out with some of my favorite people and favorite authors AND spent a tearful last day at one of my favorite bookstores in the entire world, Mysterious Galaxy. The store reigns on in San Diego but its Redondo store closed its doors and I’m glad I spent one last time there with some seriously awesome people.

Saw The Darling Buds…Again

Just a few days after the 21+ Darling Buds show, they held a free all ages show at the Gibson 90210 studios. We of course had to go to this as well and had a blast again. This time was especially fun as Jamie came over to my friends and I and sang part of the song with us. That pretty much made my entire life.

Went to the Ruin and Rising Release Party!

Leigh Bardugo is one of my favorite people in the entire world so I was VERY excited to be a part of her launch party once more, especially since I went home and read the book and was just blown away at how incredible a conclusion it was. There were drinks and goodies and a photo booth and a great great time.

Got my First Shout Out in a Book

I was browsing around instagram when a fellow blogger of mine posted that she was thanked in Siege and Storm, which had just been rereleased in paperback. I had a feeling so I rushed out to the bookstore (which I think was about to close) and grabbed a copy. I nearly cried when I saw that, yes, What A Nerd Girl Says had made the list. It was an honor to be amongst so many awesome blogs and to be in there, period.

Went to My First Ever ALA Conference in Las Vegas

For months, Courtney, my librarian friend, had encouraged me to attend the ALA Conference in Las Vegas. I went back and forth, especially since I knew I’d probably have to go alone. Eventually I convinced myself that a solo trip would be fun and I’m SO SO SO glad that I did. I met new people, made great connections and met a ton of new authors. DEFINITELY glad at.

JULY

Saw Hank Green in Concert

I had bought tickets to the concert months before I finally decided to go to ALA and this landed on the day I would be leaving Vegas. There was SO much drama on my way home and I nearly skipped the concert. My friends, however, convinced me to go and I’m glad I did. The concert was a total blast and I got to meet the other Green brother, Hank. Both Vlogbrothers in one year? That’s success.

Fangirl Day at Disneyland

My friends and I spent the entire day at Disneyland. I hadn’t started work there, so my parabatai, Sylvia, signed me in because she did. We brought our books and had a blast going on rides and taking pictures with our books. This is one of my favorite pictures of all time.

Saw James Dashner again

I was missing out on Comic Con again, because, let’s face it, I’m too poor for CC but I decided to go down to San Diego to meet James Dashner. It was a crazy day, one where my tire exploded on the way down and there was drama in trying to get it fixed, but, all in all, a great day.

AUGUST

Saw Set it Off…Again

Set It Off became a little bit of an obsession with me, but I don’t mind too much ;) They’ve been an incredible inspiration to me this year and I’m glad that I keep getting to see them and meet them. Their music makes me happy!

Fangirl Beach Day

Like fangirl day at Disneyland, I gathered a few friends and had a long, but awesome day at the beach with some books. It was a blast and as you can see, we had way too much fun taking pictures. Definitely something I will have to do every single summer.

Meeting Gayle Forman and If I Stay director Ray Cutler

Honestly, in all complete and total honesty, this event SUCKED. The Barnes and Noble it was held at was disorganized and unprofessional and just straight up terrible. BUT I’m glad to have met Gayle and RJ and Gayle’s parents were sitting in front of us, and were SO incredibly sweet as well. And we got cupcakes after the event so that’s always good.

Saw Fall Out Boy and Paramore

I had tickets for MONTHS to see Fall Out Boy and Paramore. I was sitting a million miles away but that’s okay. That is, until my good friend Jade snuck me to the front with her and I got see Fall Out Boy up close for the first time since I was in high school. It was also my first time seeing Paramore, and they are INSANELY good live.

Went to the If I Stay Red Carpet Premiere

This was such a dramatic and irritating day at a premiere. I was there all day and things weren’t going the way I wanted them to but then I was determined to make things work, and they eventually did. My one goal was to meet Jamie and Liana and I did so that was fantastic!

Got My Very First Rejection

This was one of the roughest moments of my year. This has been a rough year and hearing this sucked. But I keep trying to remind myself that this was the beginning of the right path for The Awakened. Some people don’t even make it to the querying agents stage so the fact that I’m doing it means I’m on the right path to becoming a published author.

SEPTEMBER

Met Josephine Angelini for Release of Trial by Fire

Josie is a total doll. I had just seen her at ALA and gotten my hands on Trial by Fire, which I totally loved, so I was excited to meet up with her and celebrate the actual release of the novel. Plus she brought cupcakes, which is always fantastic.

Celebrated New Releases with Natalie Whipple, Kiersten White and Stephanie Perkins

I was able to attend this event down in Oceanside just days after I ended my relationship. And I’ll just say this, I’m grateful for each and every single one of these authors for putting on SUCH a great event and keeping my mind off of such a terrible thing in my life. All of the authors were funny and helpful and I’m glad to have met them all.

Got a Job at Disneyland!

This is easily one of the best things to happen this year. I have wanted to work at Disneyland for most of my life and I’ve been told many times that I could not, because of my visible tattoos. I decided to try one more time, because my parabatai encouraged me to, and so I did and I finally became a cast member. I have been there nearly three months now and I’m in love with my job. I’m so grateful for this job and how its kept my head above water the past few months.

Met Sarah J Maas Again!

This was SUCH a fun day. I have met Sarah a few times before and she was doing a full signing at the Barnes and Noble in Glendale with a panel but after the terrible time I had there for Gayle Forman’s panel, I decided I would just go to this quick signing at Costco. She remembered me and signed my Heir of Fire, and I also was able to meet a fan of my blog that day, which was fantastic as well.

Got My 13th Tattoo, Calcifer from Howl’s Moving Castle!

I had wanted this tattoo for quite some time, and I had planned on getting it soon. It was something that I really needed because of the terrible month that September had been, so this tattoo means a lot to me. Its beautiful, I’m very proud of it, and it was the perfect moment for it to become a part of me. And let’s face it, its damn cute too.

Met Misha Collins!

Not only did I get to meet Matthew Thomas, who is still getting so much buzz and accolade for his debut novel, but I got to meet its champion, Misha Collins who plays my absolute favorite character on Supernatural, Castiel. Pretty much one of the best days of my life.

Met and Interviewed Drew Daywalt

Normally I don’t tend to do children’s books on this blog. Its not my thing. But this book was read to us at the Matthew Thomas event and I FELL in love with it and knew I had to be at this event. It was a ton of fun, and I was able to interview Drew, who was fantastic, and a great person to meet. I’m glad that I decided to go to this.

Celebrated the Release of Kami Garcia’s Unmarked

Immediately after the Day the Crayons Quit event, Kami Garcia had her event for Unmarked. Such a fun a time, I had never met Kami before! Plus a ton of other authors joined in on the fun, including Christopher Rice. An epic day for sure.

OCTOBER

Met Becca Fitzpatrick and the duo of Christina Lauren

I’m not a massive fan of Becca’s Hush Hush series but I loved her new novel, Black Ice, so I definitely wanted to get it signed by the author. She was super sweet and I also discovered the duo of Christina Lauren, whose book Sublime is now definitely on my TBR list.

Saw Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness and Met Him

Andrew McMahon and the many incarnations he’s been a part of (Something Corporate, Jacks Mannequin, etc) is the most important musician in my life. Every song, every note, is beautiful to me and important to me. I had bought tickets to see him at the end of November, at the very end of his tour, but when I saw there were still tickets left for his second show in Los Angeles and I decided, why the hell not, and I’m so glad. I met new friends and saw an absolutely incredible show.

NOVEMBER

Celebrated the Last Harry Potter Day at Disneyland

It was a sad day for the very last day of Harry Potter Day at Disneyland. The word day was also used way too much in that one sentence…but anyway. I spent most of the day with my team, answering trivia questions correctly, as I do, before Disneyland basically shut down the entire event. Sadness. BUT I had a great day with my friends, so there’s always that.

Met Jessica Brody…Again

I don’t know that I can say I “met” Jessica Brody. Its more like…I hung out with her again. At this point, I feel lucky enough to call her friend.

Went to the Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 Red Carpet Premiere

Another tiring and stressful day, we waited in line all day, waiting to be on the red carpet for this thing. We were pissed at the set up and the way they did the line but eventually we got on the carpet and ended up right on the barricade and I ended up meeting Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Suzanne Collins (!!!), and so so so many more. And we got to see the movie too, which I always count a win in my book.

Saw Circa Survive in Concert!

I was never a huge Circa Survive fan but they are my parabatai’s favorite band and I went with her to this concert. I somehow magically ended up on the barricade and had SUCH a blast. They’re so good, and Anthony Green is just an incredible musician, and I love him from his short time with Saosin. I can’t wait to see him play with them next month!

Saw Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness Again

Longest. Day. Ever. But worth every moment. I worked, tried to find Karen Gillan at Disneyland (and failed) and then got in line to see Andrew. I was SO far back, which pissed me off to no end but somehow, magically, ended up right in front at the barricade. It was SUCH a great show. He played more songs than he had at the last show, because he’s an Orange County boy AND it was the last show. I stayed after, of course, flirted with a cute boy ;) and got to say hello to my favorite musician again.

Went to The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies Premiere

I had been hoping to get to the premiere for the Hobbit and I’m so glad I was able to do so. It was a little disappointing because Benedict, Martin and Ian weren’t there, BUT I got to meet PETER JACKSON and Orlando Bloom and more, so I was quite satisfied. And I was able to see the movie as well, and I think its a fitting end to a very nerdtastic year for me.

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How was YOUR year? What were your favorite moments? Share them in the comments!

Looking for Nerd Ink!

October 22, 20141 Comment

If you’ve been following me for awhile, mind you know that I love nerd tattoos. I have a ton of them, medicine and I love discovering new ones and sharing them in the world.

I’ve done three posts about nerd ink before, cost where I showcase all different people’s nerd tattoos and I’m ready to show case yours!

Check out the three posts below to see the ones I’ve profiled in the past:

Nerd Ink

Nerd Ink, Part Two

Let’s Talk About…Nerd Ink

Here is what I need from you:

1. Your Name and Where You’re From

2. A Picture of Your Tattoo

3. What the Tattoo Is and What Fandom/Geekdom its from

4. When You Got It

5. Why You Chose It.

Please take the time to do this part. It just needs to be a small paragraph (or a large one, if you prefer) but please don’t send: “It was cool”, “I liked it”, “just because”…and that sort of thing. The point of this is to profile nerd tattoos and why we get them, and to sort of show people that we put a lot of thought into this :)

Where to Send It

Please send all of these to my blog email: whatanerdgirlsays at gmail dot com with “Nerd Ink Post” in the subject line! Thank you!

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Thanks guys! Hope to see your nerd tattoos soon!

I Got A New Tattoo!

September 24, 20142 Comments

I feel like this has been a frequent title for me on my blog. Before my blog, this web I had a handful of tattoos but since then, viagra I’ve multiplied my ink quite a bit!

Now, decease people might not understand why I get tattoos. But there are a lot of you that do. You guys are part of this generation where the idea of having a tattoo has lost that sort of “gang member” or “military” attitude. Lots of people have tattoos now and more and more places are accepting them as part of who you are and they honestly don’t hold a lot of people back from getting jobs anymore.

I love my tattoos, each and every single one of them. They represent things that I love and are passionate about. They help me get through the rough times in my life because they remind me to be fearless and courageous. And they make me feel pretty, like I’m creating artwork on my body.

So I’m MASSIVELY excited to share this new one with you guys!

One of my favorite movies of all time is Studio Ghibli’s Howl’s Moving Castle. I saw it for the first time when I was about 15 years old, 11 years ago. My sister was a huge anime fan and loved Miyazaki and at the time, I was like, ugh what is this crap? But I went with her and my mom to see this movie in theaters and the rest is history. I was blown away by this movie. The story was incredible. There was love and friendship and sacrifice and bravery and self discovery and ugh, so much laughter. And the artwork just blew my mind.

But there was one little guy in the movie that always stood out to me, the fire demon, Calcifer. He is voiced by Billy Crystal in the English dub (I can’t watch the Japanese versions with English subtitles, I just can’t) and he’s just the best. He says the best lines, whether they’re just wise as hell or hilarious as hell. He is the glue that holds that castle together and he’s part of the group and I love him.

So here we go:

Getting ready to get my tattoo. Wearing a Doctor Who shirt because I had to completely the nerdy look of the day :)

My younger sister Dink came with me. Good thing too, because I needed someone’s hand to squeeze because this tattoo hurt! I’m determined to get her under the needle one day haha.

A work in progress! I’m all bloody and orange haha.

Ignoring the fact that its RED and BLOODY and PUFFY as hell haha because its brand new, its absolutely beautiful. I am so insanely happy with, I just keep staring at it! Its my first full color tattoo. I have a tiny bit of blue shading in my Star Wars tattoo and some purple and green lightly shaded on my Something Corporate tattoo but this is the first full color one and I’m just SO incredibly happy with it. Everyone keeps saying, ohmygod its so big, but I just love it. I think its incredible and I keep staring down at my leg, because I’m just so excited. I can’t wait til it heals because then it wont’ look so bloody haha.

Just as a shout out, mass props to John at Classic Tattoo in Fullerton, CA for another excellent job on a tattoo.

And look out soon, because I”ll be doing a nerd ink post soon and I want to see YOUR nerd tattoos. Contact me for more info, if you’d like to participate!

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