Aysun's Midnight Moonstone Tail by Pearlie Mae

[PearlieMae]

Aysun has chosen a Pearlie Mae tail! :yay:

She has some very interesting ideas and I will posting her tail progress here!

[MermaidCelesteFL]

I can't wait to see what this will look like!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am super excited to finally have my own tail. I really feel like I picked the perfect tail maker to bring my vision to reality.

I will be posting a rough sketch later and would love input from you all :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Eeee! Can't wait to see! Lovely to have another merliemaed<3

[Sherielle]

I adore moonstone!! I can't wait to see this tail!

[Miyu]

Moonstone is my birthstone! Can't wait to see!

[Mermaid Enora]

Any chance it will be done in time for her to wear at Scarborough Faire? (April-May)
I'd love to go see the tail in action!

[PearlieMae]

That should not be a problem at all!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Here is the design I have so far:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/20141226_233606_zps246f8909.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20141226_233606_zps246f8909.jpg.html)

I was playing around with the idea of crescent moons on the tail. Then I thought about how you can still see the rest of the moon even when just a part of it is illuminated. So I turned them into eyespots, which is a natural marking found on some fish. Win-win.

I know what colors I want it to be, I just have to actually color it.

It is looking like the main body is gonna be labradorite favoring the blue flashes (Thank you for that idea, Pearlie Mae!) Then the belly and side spots will be moonstone with a dark, dark dorsal stripe.

I am still debating extra fins and placement.

I have also decided to order a top. It will be nice to have a swim-worthy top as opposed to the dry tops I make for myself.

I have no idea what to do for the top though...

[PearlieMae]

That's awesome! I have all kinds of ideas running around in my head now!

For instance: How about echoing the crescents on top, as if they are cupping your breasts, with dark blue sparkly scales (night sky) as a background?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I had considered that too, but then I thought I was crazy.

But since two people have independently come up with it...

:p

I like it

[Miyu]

:D yay! A Pearlie tail at a a renfaire? That'll be awsome!!!

[Mermaid Kelda]

Ooh, what a lovely design! It looks like a dark moth :) And based on stones, too! You and I will be cousins ;)

[Mermaid Enora]

Can't wait to see it!!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Tail cousins!

[PearlieMae]

Off to ask Auntie Google what pretty moths look like!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

My doodle for my top is looking the that goddess symbol with the three moons.

Sort of.

I have the crescent moons facing away from eachother, because I think they read as crescents best that way.

When I have them both coming up from the bottom, they look a little like big cartoon boobs.

Then I feel like they need some small divider between them instead of having them butt up against eachother.

A small circle or rounded diamond works well, but even that small thing makes it look very much like the 3 moons.

[PearlieMae]

I love that idea!

[maressa]

How exciting!!! I apologize if this is the wrong place to ask this, but what are your prices, Pearlie? Congrats Aysun!

[PearlieMae]

It's posted on my site, www.pearliemae.net , $3,500 on the installment plan, discounts for paying early! :yay:

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I have another update on my end!

Here is the sketch I have for my top:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/1420337441827_zps47621c14.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/1420337441827_zps47621c14.jpg.html)

I love Pearlie's idea of the background being dark and sparkly like a night sky. (The dots approximate stars. I don't actually want a polka-dot top)
Perhaps the crescents would be moonstone-y?

Then the center is a rune that represents water.
It also symbolizes emotions, fears, the unconscious mind, and stabilizing mental or emotional disorders.

I am not sure what color (s) I want that to be or what to do about straps.

In addition, I am still considering different extra fins. (Please do weigh in on this. I would love your opinions and/or experience)

The four options I am considering are:
(Feel free to correct me on my terminology)

1) Pelvic fins
Pro: they look cute
Cons: they sort of seem like they would interfere with handholds when it comes to putting on your tail.
Unless you line them up just right they are noticeably in the wrong place and that would drive me insane. Literally. It would be an issue at the lagoon I perform in when we are running short on time and practically have to through our tails on and go.

2) Hip fins
Pro: Added detail and pleasant flowyness while swimming.
Cons: lining them up, and they might look... odd during dry sets

3) Ankle fins
Pro: extra detail
Con: messes with hand hold? I am mostly digging this one

4) Heel fins
Pro: helps disguise heels!
Con: would be stood on or damaged while putting the tail on? Especially with dry or shallow gigs.

Which combo would you suggest?

[Mermaid Kelda]

I agree with your assessment, I think. My pelvic fins are invariably crooked when I pull my tail on, and I can adjust them only because my tail is a bit too big. Hip fins are less likely to look weird if they're a little out of place, IMO. Ankle fins aren't super common, so I'd love to see those! Heel fins can look great, but depending on shape and size I find they can draw attention to the heel area rather than disguising it. You shouldn't be standing on that area of your tail anyway, though, so they shouldn't be damaged more than any other fin ;)

[MermaidBrandie]

^.^ I'm just gonna hang out watchz


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am thinking about sickle shaped fins? Maybe?

[MermaidBrandie]

Yessssshhhhh


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

After I get more of my belongings packed, I am going to work on coloring my tail sketch

[PearlieMae]

Are you moving, Aysun?

I've had your tail (and yours, Melaina) simmering in my brains while I was prepping for Merfest. Now that it's over and I am mostly recovered, my attentions are ALL YOURS! :yay:

We should be moving ahead very quickly from this point, and I have to say I am very excited to get sculpting on these awesome flukes! I was so inspired by seeing so many different tails up close and personally, and the added bonus of having Robert Short as an advisor makes me very happy to buckle down to business! LET'S DO THIS!!!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Well. Yes and no.
I make my living working at Renaissance Festivals across the country. Since I am gone for the better part of 10 months out of the year, I needed to tidy my room and get things stored securely instead of just scattered everywhere.
It will still be my room, just organized and most knicknacks and things boxed.

The only things not put away are things on the bookself, a few display pieces, and my bedding.

I am currently working towards a nacho break.

And WOOHOO!
I am sososo excited.

(Did my tape dummy ever make it?)

[PearlieMae]

Yes! I'm sorry I forgot to tell you! I am stuffing the mannequins this weekend (I hate saying 'dummies', sounds mean!) and will be hanging them in the studio to start loading them up with scales as they are cast!

Hardcore Ren! Awesome! Do you do the one in Sterling Forest, NY?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Tuxedo?
Indeedy. I did that one for the first time this last season. (Aug/Sept)

It amuses me that there is the New York Renaissance Faire in Sterling Forst

And then there is the Sterling Faire upstate.

Anywho, I was a magician's assistant:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/20140917_204737_zps7009a4d1.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20140917_204737_zps7009a4d1.jpg.html)

And between shows "worked" at the pottery shop around the corner.

[PearlieMae]

Yes! I go there all the time! I have friends who do the face painting every year!

[Sherielle]

You worked with Arsene? Cool! do you ever work the texas renaissance festival?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I do!
I have been there for 2 years.
I worked for Christophe the Insultor my first year and did booth work this last season.

[Sherielle]

I've been a character out there since 98

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Very cool!
Who?
The same one or different ones?

[Sherielle]

I've been many different ones. I had a show out there for four years (2001-2004) called Wine, Women and Song. I was in the Queen's Men group when they started the themed weekends. My last two years I was in the Feast Hall as Frilly Bordello

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Hey, Pearlie?
Silly question, but how opaque scales are the scales/the over all tail?

I ask because I need to plan my underthings accordingly.

Do I just need to plan on a nude panty?

(I have gotten away with blue, black, and white under my other tail. Barely got away with red, but my boss told me not to do it again, just in case.)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Aw shit no you travel around with faires? Girl you have my dream job! Give it back already! *grabby hands*

[PearlieMae]

Hey, Pearlie?
Silly question, but how opaque scales are the scales/the over all tail?

I ask because I need to plan my underthings accordingly.

Do I just need to plan on a nude panty?

(I have gotten away with blue, black, and white under my other tail. Barely got away with red, but my boss told me not to do it again, just in case.)

It will be completely opaque! You can wear tiger stripes under it, if you want!

[Mermaid Enora]

Aghhhhh.......you got to work with Arsene!!!!!!! He's my all time favorite ren faire performer!!

Sherille: I heard at the TRF from ye odd duck that one of the bordello sisters has commissioned an owl statuette in their costume. Was that you or fancy? My sister loves that store and has a penguin in her fairy costume.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

That is so cool Sherielle :)

Teehee Melaina. That is what I did for the last 8 months and I am about to go back for 10 more. It is, interesting to say the least.

Enora, he is certainly a talented performer.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Okay, they are a little hasty, but here is what I worked up:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/20150110_192117_zps2dcdd99d.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150110_192117_zps2dcdd99d.jpg.html)

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/20150110_192107_zps81b80038.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150110_192107_zps81b80038.jpg.html)

The blue scales will be like labradorite and the light scales like moonstone.

I know the spots will not be circular and more like patches. That is fine and I think it will look good.

(There should be 12 spots, not 10. I have no idea where the others ran off too)

I am hoping the dorsal stripe could be an almost black blue?

And perhaps the fin would be somewhat translucent.

I feel like I am not going to have extra fins. I like them, and like the way they look on other tails, but I feel like I am having to shoehorn them into my design and it is not flowing naturally.

Suggestions or comments?

[MermaidBrandie]

Can't wait to see Pearlie's scales in these colors!


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I think the fluke needs a gradient fading from the base.

[MermaidBrandie]

I think the fluke needs a gradient fading from the base.

Maybe black edging fading up to the blue/light blue?


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Hmmmmm

[MermaidBrandie]

Is that a good "hmmm" or a "hmmm I'm not sure I like it but I don't wanna say that" lol


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

It is a good "hmmm"

I was imagining the other way, but this gives me something to consider

[MermaidBrandie]

That way would look good too, I just thought of the bottom stripe first because it would help make the fluke pop in pools, instead of running the risk of the fluke edge fading into the background in pictures. ^.^


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

So true

[MermaidBrandie]

^.^


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[PearlieMae]

I'm loving this! Maybe 13 moons will be more fitting, seeing that there are 13 in a year. :D

Also, I'm laying in the clay to sculpt your fluke today...roughing it in to take a look at it in 3D! :yay:

[Yulia]

The fluke looks like a cute little creature, with the moons as eyes, and the darkblue looks like arms. :)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Oh my sweet goodness Pearlie! That is so wonderful to hear :3
I needed some good news today.

And that is funny, Yulia. I can see that

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Did two more fluke mockups.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/1421103667821_zps30b1389a.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/1421103667821_zps30b1389a.jpg.html)

My original mental picture was a fade from the body of the tail to the tip of the fin.

Then CoyoteWalker suggested a reverse fade so that the edge of the fin would not disappear in the water in photos.

(I was trying to be cute and simulate translucency with shrinky dinks >.> )

[Yulia]

Ohmagosh, they are so cute!
I like the first one best, with the black. The moons get more contrast, they look like they shine on the black sky.

[Mermaid Kelda]

Agreed! I vote for the first one, too :)

[MermaidBrandie]

Dawwwww ^.^


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[Sherielle]

They're looking at me, lol

[PearlieMae]

Wow! Nothing will dare attack you with those big moony eyes flashing past in the water!

[MermanOliver]

Isn't there actually a fish using that trick to scare away predators? Cool fluke idea! Looks good. :)
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[MermaidBrandie]

There are butterflies that do it I know...


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[PearlieMae]

LOts of insects, birds and fish have markings that look like false eyes to scare or distract potential predators

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Mwahahahaha *jaws theme*

That actually was part of my inspiration. I drew the crescents first, but knew it needed something more and felt they looked out of place by themselves.
So I thought about how you can still see the rest of the moon even when it is dark and BAM eyespots.

I need to get strong enough to lift my fluke out of the water "look around" and slowly sink back down :p

[Sherielle]

Mwahahahaha *jaws theme*

That actually was part of my inspiration. I drew the crescents first, but knew it needed something more and felt they looked out of place by themselves.
So I thought about how you can still see the rest of the moon even when it is dark and BAM eyespots.

I need to get strong enough to lift my fluke out of the water "look around" and slowly sink back down :pBrilliant!

[Mermaid Enora]

love it!

[PearlieMae]

Mwahahahaha *jaws theme*

That actually was part of my inspiration. I drew the crescents first, but knew it needed something more and felt they looked out of place by themselves.
So I thought about how you can still see the rest of the moon even when it is dark and BAM eyespots.

I need to get strong enough to lift my fluke out of the water "look around" and slowly sink back down :p

That sounds so wicked!

[Dreadful Mermaids]

I need to get strong enough to lift my fluke out of the water "look around" and slowly sink back down [emoji14]

Lol cute and funny. I can actually picture this[emoji12]

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1421635940281_zps6a50fdf6.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1421635940281_zps6a50fdf6.jpg.html)

I am really happy with the way my design is turning out.

After picking the stones, I did a littke research amd they are (quite serendipitously) perfect for my character and myself.

Labradorite is said to banish fear and insecurity, encourages one to embrace new ideas and opportunities and clears the mind in order to stimulate imagination.

Moonstone helps women balance emotions.

That, combined with the rune in my top, is very meaningful to me.

(What it represents, regardless of their actual ability)

If everytime I see my tail I think calming thoughts, it will help me feel better.

As far as the night goes, I have always been a night person (except in Co. Living in a tent does not allow you to sleep in.)

That, and blue/black/white is one of my favorite color combinations.

I know that blue seems to be the number 1 tail color, however, I think it is important that a tail match well with the individual wearing it to help it look like a cohesive creature and less like a person in a costume.
I already know from experience that blue is probably the best color for me as far as tails go. (What with using the blue and silver tail in the mermaid lagoon at Scarborough)

And the eyespots help me look dark and menacing without looking harsh. Since I still work as a "kids attraction".

Mwahahahahahahaha

[Mermaid Enora]

I cannot wait another 3 months to see this tail, I want to see it now......!
agh....waiting takes forever!

[PearlieMae]

I'm getting there! Hopefully, it won't be nearly that long!

[Dreadful Mermaids]

That's awesome. Encapturing such beauty and natural element in something so wonderful. You are going to be fierce and powerful gurrrllll!

[Mermaid Enora]

pealiemae, it will be that long till i get to see it in person at scarborough faire.
its fun to see pics but I'm really excited that I'll be able to see it in person too!

[Sherielle]

Guh. Labradorite. I love it. The necklace I wear everyday is labradorite with a tree of life wire wrapped around it.

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh oh!! Will you be wearing it at the Colorado faire?!


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I do plan to bring it with me to Co to at least swim in a local (ish) lake for a photo shoot

[MermaidBrandie]

^.^ oooohhhh! We can go swimming together!


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Schweeeeet!

[MermaidBrandie]

I'm really stoked to see a Pearlie tail up close!


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I heard of a really beautiful hanging lake in the general area.

Then I know of and can get directions to a stunningly clear lake at some ridiculous altitude.

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh that'll be fun. Just be aware, the water is still gonna be super cold!


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[Mermaid Danielle]

I can't wait to see this tail completed! The concept pictures are incredible!

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

This looks gorgeous so far!

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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am keeping myself busy by working on a new dry top.

And by adding more to my mermaid character

With all the moon imagery (and some ideas I have had floating around for about a year)
I think I will be making her Moonstruck.

Etymology

moon*+‎*struck.

Adjective

moonstruck*(comparative*more*moonstruck,superlativ e*most*moonstruck)

(obsolete)*Crazy*or*insane*when affected by the*phases*of the*Moon(by extension)*Showing*irrational*behaviour, especially of a*romantic*or*sentimental(obsolete)*Made sick, or (like fishes) unsuitable for food, by the supposed influence *of the Moon.

Or, as a fellow mermaid commented, "A little too much mercury in the fish?"

The things I do to stay occupied

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Woah.
I copy/pasted that from the wiktionary. I have no idea why it did that

[PearlieMae]

I love the Moonstruck idea! I could wax poetic/philosophic about the Moon for days!

Okay, Moon Fish, I'm pondering your dark night tail!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Dark night tail :)
*assumes raspy voice*
I AM VENGEANCE
I AM THE NIGHT
I
AM
AYSUN

[Mermaid Enora]

too bad you don't have a deep pool at SRF, you could really put on a show! lol
maybe drown a few of the english guard perhaps??

[PearlieMae]

Dark night tail :)
*assumes raspy voice*
I AM VENGEANCE
I AM THE NIGHT
I
AM
AYSUN

I
AM
POSTING
SCALE
SAMPLES
SOON.

;)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

The guardsmen are sooooo nice.
I remember my first year there the entire cast came through to see the new lagoon and the guards were like, "If you ever need anything, you can count on us."
And the queen was excited. I miss her.

Thimbleberry use to bring Gelato to share. :D

Now the pied piper lures people in with his flute.

And the Duchess of Salisbury (or as I call her, the woman with the red gloves) sneaks us treats and candy. Even though she is not suppose to ;p

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Also

*EMITS EARSPLITTING SHREAK OF PURE, UNFILTERED EXCITEMENT*

(not from concentrate)

[Mermaid Enora]

I miss Queen Anne too
and Magnus Krane the monster hunter went with her too unfortunately
funny to hear what the cast does!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

One of my dearest friends designed the most incredible mermaid lagoon.
It is too bad Scarborough would never go for it.

[Mermaid Enora]

What would it look like?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

It would be based around an in ground pool (pond) with shallow shelves to scoot up on, but that are still in the water.

[Mermaid Enora]

That would be awesome! Maybe it could even have an underwater entrance so you could come and go as you please without having to shut down the lagoon??
anyway it's a good idea but agreed not sure SRF would ever go for it.

[PearlieMae]

Also

*EMITS EARSPLITTING SHREAK OF PURE, UNFILTERED EXCITEMENT*

(not from concentrate)

http://www.ihatepeacocks2.com/s/cc_images/cache_888715143.gif

[Mermaid Galene]

Open the pod bay doors, Hal.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

:D

[Mermaid Lorelei]

This is incredibly entertaining to read while at work. Thought you should know.

[Azurin Luna]

It's going to be a wonderful tail :D
Also a funny side note, I have a bjd elf whose name is Aysun :) I'm going to make her a tail too, but then it would be more pastels I think

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I use to have BJDs. Well... I still do, but I am in the process of thinning the herd to two.

There may be a market for BJD tails :)

[Azurin Luna]

I just got into the bjd world, got 3 dolls so far. Maybe I could start making different tails for them and sell them :)

I'm on DoA btw, Zarae is my name there

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

WeepingPiano

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I had the weirdest dream last night.

One of my old coworkers, Siren Nasreen, was helping me make a tail.
I kept thinking it was too short, but figured it would be okay after the fluke was done.
By this time, I have both scale sheets seamed up and ready to go.
One on each leg.
I kid you not.
I guess the plan was to then cut them and put them together?
No idea.

Anyway, I try to pull each leg up as high as it can go, and just as I am pointing out how see-through it was getting at the ankle it rips open.
I was so freaked.
Then I was upset because I still had to scuplt and cast the fluke.

So weird.

[PearlieMae]

Hahaha! I got so confused hahaha! I was reading this, and thinking "but I'm making you a tail!" Then I looked up and saw that you said you were having a dream! :doh:

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

My current project:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/1422835623044_zpsvwoap3ou.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/1422835623044_zpsvwoap3ou.jpg.html)

It looks like a majestic sea slug rising from the water.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

The more I put it on paper, the more I am mostly happy with my design choices.

[PearlieMae]

Excellent! I've been building your library of scales and they are coming out pretty cool!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

*squee*

I keep having little ideas, but I am going to wait to see the scales before I decide if my random thoughts are good enough.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

These pictures by Michael Parks are making me rethink potential extra fins...

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1423345210573_zpsv7qptvij.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1423345210573_zpsv7qptvij.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

Oooh! They're practically wings!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Not to add to your workload... but, perhaps, if you had any ideas for fins or your feeling on the fluke, I would be very open to them.

[Mermaid Galene]

Gorgeous fins! Go for it!

[PearlieMae]

I'll have to have a look on a better screen than my phone, but I don't see anything that can't be done!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

:)

They are so pretty and ethereal.
I think they could work nicely with what I already have going on.

Thank you for being so accommodating <3

[Yulia]

oooooOOooooh, the tail in the pictures looks exactly how I would like mine, perfect color.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Found another image that makes me love to color palette I chose:

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/Elster_wikipedia2_zps6pivjaew.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Elster_wikipedia2_zps6pivjaew.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

Sweet! I will add this to your inspiration file...I'll be sending you some sample scales, soon...they'll go out Tuesday, if I don't get snowed in again!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

*crosses fingers for minimal snow*

Being from Texas, I am not really sure what that is :p

[MermaidBrandie]

Being born in Texas and now in Colorado, it's overrated by a mile. Leave it to the postcards. Lol


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[PearlieMae]

Oh, don't make me cuss you out! ;)

[MermaidBrandie]

Hahaha! We might be even on the cussing bit. I do a lot of it in the snow. XP


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/tiny_snowman_by_weepingpiano-d33nno5_zpsst2dl6rx.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/tiny_snowman_by_weepingpiano-d33nno5_zpsst2dl6rx.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

Hahahaha!

[Dreadful Mermaids]

Pearlie I'm in Rhode island. We are getting buried tonight. So not looking forward to it. Born and raised in New England. I loved it as a kid but now I don't. Lol I think all the years of having to shovel ruined it.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/a-snow-measuring-system-for-men_zps5v3efuzb.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/a-snow-measuring-system-for-men_zps5v3efuzb.jpg.html)

Aaaaand

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC04725_zpsmwepapwc.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC04725_zpsmwepapwc.jpg.html)

(From a few years ago)

[Elle]

I've never seen snow. Closest I've ever gotten is cleaning frost out of the freezer with my dad when I was about 10

[PearlieMae]

Dreadful, you guys are really getting nailed! I must say I'm glad it's missing us!

Elle, you should travel to experience it once! It can be magical...if you have the option of leaving it!

(That photo in my above post is my car.)

[Mermaid Galene]

It's so weird to see all of this snow missing Minnesota and Wisconsin. We only have a few inches on the ground. But we did have a -20ºF windchill most of the day, which is sort of impressive!:clap:

[PearlieMae]

Aysun, I'm building your color library, too...here are some scales to peruse...

27471

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

So beautiful!

I really like the whites and the shimmer/color depth of the blue on the bottom half.

The ones with the large patches at the top are great.

I think the only one I don't really care for it the one in the top center.

The only thing I think I could ask for would perhaps be some blackish blue ones. Like a magpie feather. (Which was a last minute idea >.> I realized that my mersona is like the magpie of the Black Sea)

These are wonderful. Thank you!

[Mermaid Danielle]

The colors of those scales are so beautiful! I can't wait to see this when it is completed!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

The more I look at them, the more excited I get.

I adore the bottom center ones

[Dancing Fish]

WOW. Pearlie you are such an inspiration! I must have read your epic thread twice now.

[PearlieMae]

I'm glad you like them! I do have blackish blue ones in the works, but they weren't completed when I took this shot...more to come!

[Dreadful Mermaids]

It's so weird to see all of this snow missing Minnesota and Wisconsin. We only have a few inches on the ground. But we did have a -20ºF windchill most of the day, which is sort of impressive!:clap:
It's like the whole climate is shifting. Ppl who usually don't get this much are getting shitted on and ppl who usually get it are dry. Look at Florida. Southern Florida has a wind chill advisory. Showing 24 degrees for some places down there. It's crazy

[Dreadful Mermaids]

Pearlie your scales are flawless and your method is amazing. Beautiful work. Once I get more into playing with silicone I'd love to learn from you if you ever take on an apprentice. Or at least have the pleasure of swimming with such an awesome and talented mermaid

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I was mulling something over in my head and was wondering what y'all might think.

Instead of having the colors of the fluke being very stark, maybe the edge of the fluke could be dark, like I have doodled, but then there could be splotches of diminishing size working their way towards the tail?
Smallish splotches.
Not even sure if it is really feasible.

[PearlieMae]

Absolutely, Aysun! Completely doable! Did you want to do a quick sketch? I'd love to see exactly what you mean. :)

[Mermaid Enora]

are you talking about the drawing you posted earlier on this thread with your name on it?
Like that tail idea?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/1424635208408_zps2iv6lpqv.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/1424635208408_zps2iv6lpqv.jpg.html)

I just busted this one out.

I am conflicted.
I think it makes the eyespots a bit less stark, which I think I like, but now I am not sure if it looks diseased.

Maybe slightly larger patches would fix that.

The doodle shows I was also playing with making the moons a bit less round than my previous sketches on the tail and top.

Also, would I do dark ankle fins or contrasting ankle fins?

Fins that are dark with light tips?

[PearlieMae]

I'll try and do some color sketches, some options to choose from. :)

[Mermaid Enora]

Will all this changing colors and designs affect when the tail is completed? or is it not to that point yet?

[PearlieMae]

The tail can be changed up to the point where I begin to seal the individual scales to the powermesh base. I don't do that until I have the final approval from the client.

[Mermaid Enora]

oh ok, just curious how it all worked

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Soooo... I live on top of a hill and we are officially iced in >.>
We can't even make it down the driveway without the threat of sliding into our neighbor's house across yhe street.

[PearlieMae]

I know that feeling all too well. I'm using all my vacation days because I can't get off the mountain! Be careful!

[Atlantisblue]

Can't wait to see how this progresses. The drawings look cool. I love the fluke

[Mermaid Enora]

I'm an RN so no vacay days for me. �� took me an hour to get to work today in the ice and snow normally would've taken 20 minutes.

[Atlantisblue]

We barely had snow or ice this year...weather seems to be changing.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I had another tail dream last night!
It was weird. It wasn't really that I had my tail, but while I was envisioning it, it was like I could see it floating there.
Then I swam away.
Through the air.

>.>

*not crazy*

[PearlieMae]

That's awesome!

(I had to edit my post, sorry! )

[Mermaid Enora]

I dream about my fairy wings a lot but no mermaid dreams yet

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am very happy with the scales I have seen so far and am eager to see the new pigment you told be about.

I don't want to change anything.

But I felt left out with people posting paintchips or pantone swatches, so this is my contribution.

A page from a 300 year old book detailing nearly every color imaginable.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-01-11-19-28_zpsnwgnqkpc.png (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-01-11-19-28_zpsnwgnqkpc.png.html)

[PearlieMae]

I didn't want you to feel left out! You were already so clear with your choices! :D

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

:D I just wanted an excuse to post that picture :p

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-01-11-23-11_zpswy9ag9ce.png (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-01-11-23-11_zpswy9ag9ce.png.html)

And this one.
It is a stunning book about watercolors and changing tint by adding one, two, or three parts water.

[PearlieMae]

I remember seeing excerpts and it was an amazing body of work!

[Mermaid Galene]

Very cool!

[MermaidBrandie]

I can't wait to see this tail in person this summer!

Imma be studying your tail hardcore, Pearlie!! Lol


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[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Aysun, I'm building your color library, too...here are some scales to peruse...

27471
The more I gaze longingly at this at this picture the more I adore the two blue scales in the dead center.

*swoon*

[PearlieMae]

The ones with the green edges?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Yes ma'am.
The biggun with the smaller one sitting on it.

Biggun is the technical term.

Which surprises me, since I never would have put green if I were making it, but that is why you are the tail making genius.

*bows in deference*

[PearlieMae]

It really makes the color pop, doesn't it? :D

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

It does! It gives them such richness and depth and really enhances the blue.
The amount of sparkle is perfect.
I am not an overly sparkly person and I keep telling my boss that I see Aysun as more bloodspattered than bedazzled.
But they look like they have stars in them and I love that.

I am so very pleased with they way everything is turning out.

[PearlieMae]

Me too! I hope to have a fair amount pinned into place to show you by the end of the weekend!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Are things okay with the snow and all that?
Have you been able to make it to town for provisions and things?

I have almost pictured you burning your furniture for warmth and being forced to eat shoeleather.

[PearlieMae]

Not quite that bad, yet, I have a good stockpile of food.

Although, I did have to fight my way into work through this sh*tstorm (I used up all my vacation days because of the freakin' winter weather), but first, I locked my purse, phone and keys into my running car while I was cleaning the snow off of it, I broke a window trying to break into my house to get a spare key (it's a plexiglass window, and I managed to get it back into place, except now there's a big crack in it), I had a chunk of ice caught in the heel tread of my boot and when I went into the house, I slipped, fell, and twisted my ankle badly and limped up all my stairs, slid through two intersections with the car, drove 45 harrowing miles to my job only to find we are out of coffee.

The govenor has declared a state of emergency and has told everyone to stay off the roads, but has my boss closed the company for the day? Nooooooooo! Are we leaving early to get home while it's still light out? Nooooooo! Is our business crucial to the health of humans? Nooooooo! We sell hobby tools.

This is how mermaids turn into sea monsters. Kraken better not f*ck with me today, I'll eat his face. :cthulhu:

[Ashton]

Are you ok pearlie? That sounds awful!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I want to punch your boss in the snoot.

Though I will admit, I chuckled until I read you twisted your ankle. Then it stopped being funny.

[PearlieMae]

I'll be okay...ankle isn't terrible. Just severely done with winter.

27946

[Mermaid Galene]

Oh, dear, Pearlie, you'd better have a big virtual hug now... :hug: ...and a bucketful of chocolate later!

[Kabuki-Bunny]

OMG,Pearlie!!! [emoji47]That sounds like...a day in the life of me! Lol but seriously,I live on the east coast and everything you're going through,we're going through out here. I'm fed up with management not valuing their workers' safety enough! So finally I told them today that I wasn't taking the risk driving there (an hr and ahalf!) and that if they didn't like it,they could shove it up their poont! [emoji34] I hope you can get plenty of rest...and take care of that heel fin of yours! ::mermaid kisses::


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[PearlieMae]

Awww! Thank you, everyone! :mermaid kiss:

The Beau made it up to me by booking a really nice hotel room and we spent the evening....well...none of your business.

Let's just say, I am a happy LadyFish who is walking funny, and not because of her ankle. ;)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I had the weirdest tail nightmare last night.

°•○~dream sequence~○•°

I had driven to an office/workshop to pick up my tail.
There were some really cool ones in progress scattered about and then I saw mine.

It was smallish and the colors were plain and dull.
I was so excited to have my tail though and the lighting was dim, so I barely noticed.

Then I saw the fluke.
It was very small and not symmetrical. I turned away and turned back to see it had been cut into a tulip shape (rounded, with a point on each side and a point in the middle.)

I was devastated. I was going to say it had to be fixed and then I woke up to my cat in my face.

[/enddreamsequence]

It was soooo weird

[PearlieMae]

Wow! That is weird!

Did you see my Instagram? I posted a shot of Kelda's fluke/work in progress and it is, at this point, vaguely tulip shaped with a point in the middle! BUT it's big, symmetrical and coming out quite nicely, I think!

And your tail is going to be SO sparkly! Don't worry! :mermaid kiss:

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

...
I was not aware you had an instagram account.

*stalks it*

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

That fluke is going to be very cool.

And your scales are so bright and beautiful and amazing. I know my Pearlie tail will be perfect and beautiful.

[Mermaid Galene]

Ooh, Kelda's fluke has a lovely shape!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

My boss was so excited when I told her I bought my own tail and then really disheartened when I told her I would not have it for this season
(No worries! That was never the plan. I never dreamed it would be done before this show. I was aiming for "before I left for Colorado")
I felt kind of bad for telling her though.

[PearlieMae]

When is the Colorado fair?

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

June. I want to do some photoshoots in the mountains.

[PearlieMae]

:thinks:

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

When I said "this show" I was refering to Scarby.
I knew when I ordered a tail could not be done in time for that, so it was never a factor.

I am so happy seeing pretty scale pictures.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Since I am an insufferable pest, I am leaning back towards not wanting extra fins.

I am worried I would damage them.

[PearlieMae]

well you certainly don't have to have them if you're afraid you're going to mess up. We have time to decide. :)

[Mermaid Enora]

Hey Aysun your inbox is full

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Fixed!
(Is it just me, or does the inbox seem smallish?)

[Mermaid Enora]

no it feels smallish to me too

[Winged Mermaid]

Sorry guys, we have to keep it all the smallish side to conserve server space :/

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

No problem! It is actually nice not to have to slog through tons of messages. I just have to be diligent and delete things I don't need to keep :)

(P.s. I love you Pearlie)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Had another weird tail dream.
I was trying to put my tail on while butt scooting down the road from my sister's house to my house.
Suddenly, all the neighbors had pools and I was /this/ close to jumping in a random pool and having a spontaneous mermaid party.

[PearlieMae]

No more mushrooms before bedtime, young lady! :neener:

[Mermaid Enora]

Yes indeed, whatever are you eating to give you such vivid mermaid dreams?
I've had a few fairy dreams but no mermaid dreams yet. :/

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Bagels?
Lots of garlic? (I don't have anyone to kiss on, so I can have all the raunchy garlic breath I want.)
Toast, butter, and jam.

I guess it is just what is on my mind.
*stakes out mailbox*

[Mermaid Julianne]

I've heard apple juice and cheese give people odd dreams, it might be worth trying.

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

This is the last design alteration.
For certain.

I have not really found a fluke coloration that I am 100% happy with. I love the shape I have (maybe with slighty more defined side swooshes, but the color pattern has stumped me.
So I was thinking the fluke colors could be patterned after a magpie wig.

Not in shape, but in pattern.

With the dark tips (like I have) and edges (the fluke ridges could be dark) and then with the eyespots. >.>

what do you think?

Instead of mottled?

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/79e91b1eff295b5710d48e4d4c142f2c_zpsqh2euzgo.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/79e91b1eff295b5710d48e4d4c142f2c_zpsqh2euzgo.jpg.h tml)

(Not a tail dream, but I did have a scale dream last night. And other dreams where I did mundane, realistic things. Like texting the guy I like that I liked him anf being so concerned about it when I woke up that I had to make sure I had not really done that.)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

-

[PearlieMae]

Ooh! I REALLY like that!

I'll mock it up on the computer tomorrow and see what we can come up with.

Test scales in the mail tomorrow!

[Mermaid Wesley]

My opinion doesn't really matter since its not my tail but I looove that idea! :)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I appreciate outside opinions!
Since I plan to use this as my performance tail it is really important that others like it too :)

[Mermaid Galene]

Magpies are such gorgeous birds. I think this will look fabulous on your tail, Aysun!

[Elle]

That is way prettier than any Australian magpie.

[MermaidBrandie]

I like that a lot!


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[Mermaid Kelda]

That is way prettier than any Australian magpie.
Right?? No fair!

[Elle]

Right?? No fair!

I did some googling. apparently our magpies are a whole different family and a more closely related to butcher birds than other magpies :(

[PearlieMae]

Right?? No fair!

Yeah, but you guys have the Great Barrier Reef! Talk about no fair! :-D

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

What about these magpies?

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-15-22-13-11_zpsrw6srgpy.png (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2015-03-15-22-13-11_zpsrw6srgpy.png.html)

[Elle]

Yeah, but you guys have the Great Barrier Reef! Talk about no fair! :-D

18hrs drive from me....not something I can take advantage of regularly unfortunately

[PearlieMae]

That's a hike! That would be like me driving to Florida from New Jersey.

[Mermaid Kelda]

What about these magpies?
I'm starting to think that "magpie" is a word people throw around without a lot of thought to the species they've discovered xD

[Yulia]

Found this picture and thought the color scheme was kinda similar.
Nonetheless, you have to make some scales like these feathers, I'd buy them ;)
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/70/29/f1/7029f1c86e388885386a9333dd3911b3.jpg

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh feather scales! Great idea! :)


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[PearlieMae]

Already tried it...not good results, unfortunately.

[Yulia]

Already tried it...not good results, unfortunately.
But the colors! The colors are so pretty.....

[Mermaid Kelda]

The poor results were for embedding the feathers into the scales though, weren't they? Couldn't you just sculpt a scale to look like a feather?

[PearlieMae]

I actually made a mold of a feather pressed into clay, but it was much to subtle. I didn't view it as being a success. I haven't tried sculpting a feather I suppose that could be kind of interesting but then it would look like a mermaid covered in feathers!:thinks:

Just kidding! early in my tail making journey, I did try to make a feather impressions scale but didn't feel it was going anywhere so I didn't pursue it any further than that. It would be interesting to revisit.:rollover:

[PearlieMae]

But the colors! The colors are so pretty.....

I do love those colors! Maybe I'll explore that. :)

[PearlieMae]

Glow in the dark scales! So cool! They glitter in the light and glow in the night!

28370

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Ohhoho!

[Ilyena]

.......O_O!!!!!!! -grabby hands-

[PearlieMae]

And a photo of some of the sample scales...some are still curing! ;)

This shot doesn't show off the shimmery glittery goodness, not to mention the color shifting pigments!

28371

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

*hyperventilating*

[Ilyena]

Why Pearlie....such pretties and I'm such poor lol

[Yulia]

Do you only use Pearl-ex pigments Pearlie?

[PearlieMae]

Nope, I have a whole lot of new specialty pigments! They are very exciting!

[Yulia]

Oh, cool! Because I haven't seen a Pearl-ex pigment in Petrol yet.

[Mermaid Galene]

Love them Pearlie scales!:drool:

[Ashton]

:DVery Pretty!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

No mail today.
Fooey.

[PearlieMae]

Check again Monday or Tuesday. :)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am so happy I picked Pearlie to by my tailmaker. She is coming up with colors I may not have thought of, but that I really love.

[Mermaid Sirenia]

Pearlie your tails are ridiculously pretty!! Aaahh love them!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

My best friend drew this for me

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-04-02%2021.46.39_zpsjydquaq8.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-04-02%2021.46.39_zpsjydquaq8.jpg.html)

[Ashton]

very cute~

[Ashe]

Oooooooh Pearlie I am so excited for this project! Aysun you are going to love it I'm sure :)

[PearlieMae]

Wow! That's wonderful! I can't wait to make this a reality!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Except for the side spots being a little larger than I had envisioned, the ensemble is spot on (haaaaa) to what I am looking for.

Now I just need to work on actually being that muscular :p

[Mermaid Galene]

What a lovely work of art! And soon you'll have two!

[Mermaid Alea]

Was your friend using copic markers? She did an amazing job!

This tail design is really neat I love tails with eye spots on the fluke. ;)

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

Tombo markers.

And my scale samples arrived today, but I am out working faire so it will be a bit before I get to see them.

[PearlieMae]

:biting nails: I hope you like them!

[Azurin Luna]

How can someone not like your scales?!
I'm sure they will be pretty and gorgeous and all such things :D

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1428453091304_zps6vzoxk7l.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PhotoGrid_1428453091304_zps6vzoxk7l.jpg.html)

Indoor light, w/ flash, outside in sun, overcast.

They are so sparkly!

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd493/WeepingPiano/Mobile%20Uploads/20150407_180653_zpsmez8ug10.jpg (http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/WeepingPiano/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150407_180653_zpsmez8ug10.jpg.html)

I am guessing the peachy one is for up near my waist?

And I do like the glowyness of the glow scale, but it is soooo very green.
I am not sure how I feel about it.

Other than that they are all so pretty.

[Mermaid Enora]

I like the ones with the most sparkle the best!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I like the ones that are definitively blue the best, but I know the purpley ones will make the blue really pop.
And I still adore the one with the kiss of green on the lip.
Third row, first column. First row, third column.

[PearlieMae]

I have a blue glow pigment, but it doesn't hold a charge very well at all, and the purple glow was sadly disappointing. I will try and add some blue to the green glow and see if that tones it down some. It will still glow green, but appear bluish in daylight.

I have some blackish blue scales with blue highlights and a blue/green colorshifting sparkly topcoat for the deepest parts of your tail, and I will send them out shortly.

The peachy one is for the transition to your waist. They'll get less blue-y and more flesh-y as they get closer to your skin to make a smooth/blended transition.

Are there any you definitely DON'T want? I can eliminate them from your color library. Remember, you can have as many colors as you like!

[Aysun_the_Mermaid]

I am very happy with them! They made me squee.

With a pigmented vs painted fluke, will it be difficult to get the different colors I am hoping for?

(I am so glad I went with someone who pigments because the paint is coming off of my finfolk fluke in weird places and it is making me batty)

Also, I know I have the moons going up in my doodle, but I like the way the moons face in the drawing my friend did for me, if that is not a problem.

[PearlieMae]

I like squeeeee!

As for your fluke, not at all! I'll build up the colors gradually to get it exactly the way you want, and we can use your friend's drawing for reference!

("I know I have the moons going up in my doodle" made me laugh.)