Two Whole Decades
Been playing on easy mode this whole time
A Personal Note
In four days, it’ll make 20 years I’ve been with my partner. We met when we were 17 and have been together ever since.
The crazy thing about all of it is it’s been really easy.
We bicker and argue sometimes, sure, but we’ve never truly had a hard time with one another.
But you’re here to talk comics…
My Secret Second Life
When I was writing & working with Valentin on Unlimited Udo, she knew absolutely nothing about it. I’d get it done in the times before and after working the day-job while she wasn’t home.
Why would I do such a thing?
I’ve disappointed her a few times. I mean, not really disappointed, but I didn’t deliver on all my crazy plans one too many times. To be fair, I could easily say the same about my brother who would listen to my brainstorming sessions while we drove to and from Red Wings games. (Hey bro!)
I went to film school and came out with a lot of ideas and even more grandiose plans of how I’d get my big break.
I actually did try quite a bit, but it never really went anywhere that seemed sustainable. Lots of free internships. The odd short film with the only good thing to come out of film school, my film school buddy. (Hey dude!)
After a while, I just stopped bringing things up. I got a couple short stories of short stories published and would share that, but bigger plans I kept close to the vest.
At least, until I had something to show for it…
Do Not Recommend
Doing things in secret isn’t the best way to approach any creative endeavor or healthy relationship.
Even though she didn’t know I was working on comics on my own time, she was never shy to tell me that I’m a good writer. (And compliments don’t come cheap with her - for anybody - so it really means something when you get them.)
Imposter syndrome and all kinds of other reasons to doubt yourself can bring you to a complete halt. It’s critical to have someone in your corner - even if it’s not in the way you think they should be there.
She’s not a fan of comics, or sci-fi, or fantasy, or even comic book movies. It’s all nonsense to her. And yet…
All In Together
Since I’ve let her in on the big secret, she’s been terribly supportive of this dream of mine. When it comes time to bag and board comics for fulfillment, she’s there doing it with me. She’s making sure the pictures for these posts turn out. She’s with me to make sure everything is making it to the post office in order.
Not to mention, she helped workshop the lettering on this title card:
All in, it’s been the best 20 years.
It’s more than I deserve, but here’s to another 20 (and 40, and 60).
In the meantime…
What’s Next?
December 1
Irish Adventure Time
My first time on the Emerald Isle and why rest is critical
December 15
An (Early) Year in Review
It’s about that time to look back on how 2023 went
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