Leona, listening to your story and learning how you came to become such a cornerstone in this hobby and community was nothing short of inspirational. It shows you that beautiful things really can blossom out of horrendous situations. You are a poetic and captivating story-teller, contrary to your belief, and I genuinely found myself focusing less on you painting and more on your words. While I am sorry this happened to you, I am so happy to see where you are now in life. I have followed you for many, many years (Sailor Cosmos' first part) and getting to learn more about you has been wonderful. The updated version of this figure is gorgeous, as always. I'd love to hear more story times from you and genuinely believe that you have a natural talent for this style of format. Thank-you for sharing your story and being such an inspiration to this community!
I never cried so hard. This hit hard. Break ups are not easy. It really takes a part of you that you can never get back. I'm so sorry that you went through that, but so proud how you overcame and the strength you found through this time in your life.
Hello my dear monkeys! 💞 ⭐Finally answering the burning question so many people have asked over the years: How I got into this hobby. A video with heavy topics in the story, so I hope I don't scare you off. I wanted to just come down and let you know that while making this video was hard to do, please don't feel bad for me, this is part of my past and it no longer hurts me. Please don't judge me too harshly, we all do many stupid things in our youth, but I think I may be one of the few to take the cake, but in the end, we all learn from our actions in life. The base for this particular piece was made by Lucia, the same artist that made Lady Amalthea participated in this video by helping me to make this element as a finishing touch for a 20 year old figure. Some technical notes on this project: I modified the hair to make her look like it was floating, I modified her odangos to make a socket for some clear 3D printed ones, I also modified her broach to make it show accurate and also replaced her Eternal tier with one less messed up and a tad more detailed, almost all mods and additions were 3D printed 😊 Please let me know if you liked this type of format, I'd love to share more stories but I don't know if they will fit well into the type of content I make, this is actually an experiment of mine so let's see how this goes 💜
Thank you so much for sharing! It's given me comfort and hope for myself. Your videos, the sailor princess series particularly, has helped me through the loss of my parents, an ex, and my chihuahua. Thank you so much for being a shining star.
At the risk of sounding cheesy, there's something wonderful about knowing the Champion of Justice found you again and stayed by your side until you were ready to embrace your passions again. Your story was inspirational and, as always, your work was beautiful.
I’m going to be honest, story-time videos aren’t usually my cup of tea when they’re personal stories and I was thinking of skipping this one. But, I’m glad I watched. Our stories are so similar. In my early 20s, I lost myself in a man that almost ruined me. My mom was a single mom that was always bouncing from one love to the next. So I stayed in a shitty relationship for much longer than I ever should have because I didn’t want to mirror my mother’s serial dating. I really enjoyed your style or story telling. You made me cry but you made me laugh as you usually do in so many of your videos. And I’m glad things have changed for you as they have for me as well. (I’m married to a wonderfully supportive man that doesn’t dim my light.) And to see your beautiful art while listening to this story is part of the icing on the cake. She’s gorgeous. Thank you for sharing a part of your personal life with us, Leona. ❤
Leona, I am in tears because I feel like I just heard my own story retold back, as an artist millennial who also came from a catholic mexican household. I understand you so much. Thank you so much for being brave and sharing your pain and feelings with us, for sharing this cathartic moment not only for you, but for me as well. ❤ It validates the path I've chosen to take, the feelings I've felt, and fuel the passion that drives me forward.
There's really no words I can say other than: I couldn't be more proud of who you are and for overcoming hardship like this. I'm sure your mom and your family are even more proud than I can imagine. I hope you keep doing what you love and I hope I can continue to support you for another 10 years. You're an inspiration to me.
I was there Gandalf, 3,000 years ago, I saw you fly so low, I was always affraid you'd crash and burn. I couldn't be more proud of you my dear friend. It has been a true privilege to have crossed paths and being able to see you thrive today. With all my love and respect, I wish you to continue to grow and continue the path of success and happiness. Stay healthy your majesty.
Sailor Moon in so many forms has pulled me through a lot of sh*t in my life. She's what brought me here. The reveal of this figure made me sob because of the meaning it has behind it. Thank you for being brave enough to share a piece of yourself with us. 💜
Hey Leona, I've been following your work since long before your RUclips channel, probably since near the beginning of your presence online if I come to think of it. I just want you to know that your passion for what you do comes through. You've been so valuable in inspiring that passion in myself and others. Your story was heartbreaking, but also I'm just so in awe of how strong you were to come through it. I know from personal experience that it probably didn't always feels like strength at the time, but I promise you it was. It's been a delight to watch you grow more and more, not just in your GK skills (which have definitely grown over the years) but also just in how your own self-confidence and happiness shows. And I'd be delighted if you shared more of your stories, because I think you have a lot to give. Keep being you and stay awesome.
You've been through a hell of a lot Leona. It takes incredible endurance. To not only pick up GKs after all the associations with horrible pain but to also become one of the greatest virtuosos on the entire English-speaking internet. Nothing can make the hurt just magically disappear, but I genuinely applaud you and look up to you both as an artist and as a person for your diligence and strength. Thank you for always soldiering on and thank you for sharing such a personal story.
38 mins in, your story has me so invested that I have to break the tension: Simpsons collectables? Red flag. So much though. So much experience. So much emotion. So much growth. Thank you for sharing this 🥲 (Would love to hear more from you if you care to make more storytimes!)
Leona, if I may, I noticeda parallel between the story and the figure you painted in this video. Upon rewatching I saw the final images again...and wow. The new version, filled with mods, advanced techniques, a custom base, repositions to add more dynamism doesn't only reflect how much better you became at this, but also how you reclaimed what that soab stripped from you in that abusive relationship: your love for creativity, and your love for the series. If one saw the before and after figures side by side, I bet they couldn't tell they came from the same resin parts in a cardboard box.| You made it your own again, shared it with us in a very inspiring video, and we were and are happy to follow you (literally). Keep rocking
Just lost my job this Friday and remembered this vid. Needed a bit of something to shore up my resilience so that I can move forward. I have this coming month's rent paid and enough groceries to get me by for bit and some savings so I am not in emergency as I wait for unemployment and figure out what comes next. Thanks for this story and while you may not have meant it to be encouraging, it is!
Thank you for telling your story, it's been a bumpy ride for you until you found your place, and I am so glad you did. I like both formats for different reasons, so a mix would be great ( like alternating story time and watch- and- learn- time 😊). Also, thank you for showing your very first kit, it is amazing to see how your style evolved ❤. Looking forward to the next sessions!! Take care 😊. And btw: I would have piled up his stuff and thrown a match in it. You were very kind and sensible in your actions towards him, and showed him a greatness of heart he truly never deserved.
Eres una mujer muy fuerte y valiente para haber pasado por todo eso y estar bien parada el día de hoy, y con seguridad puedo decirte que tienes más cojones que cualquier hombre, que desearía tener la mitad del coraje que tú tienes. Ya te admiraba de antes por tu trabajo, pero ahora lo hago aun más. Un abrazo gigante y estoy muy orgullosa de ti ❤
Your storytelling is lovely! I was captivated by it rather than the figure your were painting. The figure is lovely btw. Simply stunning! I wanted to let you know, I cried listening to your story. I was isolated by a friend who betrayed me in a similar situation, so to me your story hit close to home. You’re right; our stories of betrayal aren’t unique, but that doesn’t make them any less poignant. Thank you for being brave enough to talk about something so deeply personal that many of us are still afraid to talk about. You’ve given me courage to be more open about my own situation. Thank you.
I'm so glad that you were able to keep your love of Sailor Moon! It can be so hard to keep the joy in those things when you share them with someone who messes you up that bad... Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
I fully understand and feel your pain. I had a very similar experience...young and getting with someone older than me while still in high school, having a mother who checked my blongings and forcing me to not see them, secretly still seeing them and going to conventions, moving away and finally having freedom to be with them, only to find out they were cheating on me almost 4 years later, being gaslite and wishing things could get better but ultimately getting mentally sick thinking everything was my fault, especially after being lied to saying they still loved me and the person they cheated on me with was almost a copy of myself down to the same birthday (even not having a job and getting addicted to an mmo afterwards). It hurts, and it's hard to know how much something like this affects your life when you're young and wanting to prove you can do it when really it turned out your mother was right.. Finding love and happiness after has been a struggle filled with doubt and selfloathing, but I'm happy that we both have found a partner who cares and mothers who still love us after that.
Wow... This story is a prime example of the phrase, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." I'm so glad that you found something good after all of that. Oh, and I thought you told the story brilliantly. I was gripped.
As great as romance stories like Sailor Moon are, they can warp perspective of young people. Being so eager to feel loved and wanted can make someone vulnerable to mistreatment. You are a strong beautiful lady, thank you for sharing your story!
Getting to hear this story hit hard. The raw emotion in your voice hurt, but also the joy when you talked about how things are now.... It's inspiring. Thanks for telling us and being proof that you can always move forward!
Listening to your story broke my heart. I can understand what you have been through. I've had two people shatter my heart. Watching you, and others, painting kits has been an inspiration to me. A really good friend and I are working on starting our own GK business. Hopefully, one day, one of our kits will be painted on your channel.
I'm a Brazilian and I have to say that your diction is excellent, and everything sounds very pleasant to listen to. I've watched other videos of yours, but this one touched me in a special way. Congrats on your work!
Leona, the jurney you've taken in your life all adds up to the you that you are now. If any part of it were different, then the person that is you would be different. You’ve earned everything that you are. Thank you for your story. So many young people have similar stories. You've proven that the memories of the past do not need to define who you are. Keep living your best life as you’ve earned it.
I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry at least once while watching this... Your story is incredibly heart wrenching and I, along with so many others, am so proud of you for making it out. Even if none of us know you personally, or knew you then. I'm glad you're able to live the life you love now, you definitely deserve it💕
You have a fantastic voice for story telling. Your stories don't even have to be personal. They could be funny stories, they could be someone else's stories, they could be true crime stories, or spooky stories. I am usually a lurker and I am so proud of your personal growth. Thank you for sharing your heart with us!
Crying. Absolutely crying. It makes me proud to see how far you've come as an artist in the short time I've followed you. knowing a talent as great as yours was a light at the end of such a dark tunnel is inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story and art with us, Leona. Long live the Resin Queen!
We love you Leona, you're so brave for sharing your story! I could hear the emotion in your voice through each part and being so honest to such a large group of people can be scary, but look at you! Although I can't say I've gone through the same things as you have, I'm proud of you for facing your painful memories and being a Proud (Partially) Independent Woman! Your figure is absolutely radiant and she stands as proudly as you do! We love you Leona and I can't wait to continue this wonderful journey with you here! ❤
I've been following your videos since stumbling upon the Sailor Princess Videos when you painted Princess Mars. I've been a huge fan of Sailor Moon since 1997 when I was 10 and I still am. The connection you described in the beginning sounded wonderful and I can relate how important and beautiful such friendships are (after being bullied for being too nerdy through my whole school time I NOW have friends who really ARE friends). It's all the more disgusting how he betrayed you. I feel for you. At times during this video I had tears in my eyes. I don't know you but I enjoy your videos as if a friend told me a story. You are a good story teller and I like your sense of humour. As a few others wrote, this time I almost only heard your story and you painting Eternal Sailor Moon took a bit of a backseat to that. It takes a lot of courage to be open about one's life as you said in the beginning. Whether it's online or in the analogue world. I awe you for being this courageous and I thank you for sharing this with all of us. Knowing you are not alone makes us stronger. Sailor Moon is about love and friendship and hope. I am so happy you have kept/found your connection to Sailor Moon (again). (English is not my first language so if I sound strange, I apologize for that)
Leona the vulnerability you show sharing your story is so inspiring and proves yet again why I love your channel. I’ve always loved your content and hearing this story proves it goes way deeper than the figure. Having been through something similar makes me realize the importance and impact sharing our journey has. Thank you for inspiring me in so many ways!
Omg, Leona, after hearing your background story on how your career of being an talented resin artist and finding your love and passion for art, anime and being happy in life with the one you love, Omg, this is so powerful and I want to say that I'm really relieved that you're okay and also successful in doing what makes you very happy as well as very happy that your family, your friends and future love of your life and your love for Sailor Moon and anime and art help you bounce back up again to make your dreams of being an resin artist a reality. I know how you feel- I also been through personal tough and emotional times dealing with strife and opposition from people not allowing me to pursue my happiness and dreams, but my family and friends and my love for Sailor Moon & Anime and Art always inspires me to keep going and make my dreams come true. I'm really happy you became an amazing artist and a successful and happy woman you always are today, I really love your artworks and I hope that you'll always continue to do what you always love and be happy. 💖💖💖
I really love your storytelling. You come so far with everything in your life. Sorry you have gone though the heartbreaks but glad you weathered the storm that is life. Also don't feel about about your age, even if you're not, I'm 30 years old as well. I'm a 1993 spring baby.
Your storytelling is amazing. I remember when I was in much the same place-dating a 2/10, emotionally immature, stuck-to-the-tit, narcissistic, egotistic man-child-because I was convinced-or scared-that my life would be so much worse without him. Your strength and ability to rise from the ashes is inspiring, and seeing you happy, healthy, healing, and doing what you love should encourage ANYONE. Thanks for sharing, Leona. If I wasn’t a resin monkey before (which I definitely was and am), I sure as fuck am now.
I don't remember ever watching a story video like this before till the end. Now I'm sitting here, an hour later with teary eyes. Thank you for sharing this and for facing yourself and your pain so bravely.
Sad to say that with that trigger warning I won't be able to watch the full thing in its entirety. However, I am going to leave a comment for the algorithm and just say that, Leona, I've suffered many struggles too these past few years including losing my sister. Art has also, for me, been the healing mechanism that I needed to get past those struggles. You are amazing and your art is amazing! ❤
Leona, you have such a deep story. you don't need my sympathies for being treated like that, but you have them if you want them. your story brought tears to my eyes because it's so much like mine. i'm so happy that you're in this wonderful place in your life where you can truly do what you love with the person you love. this piece turned out so beautifully. thanks for your content. it has more impact than you might think.
I've been watching your videos for years, and I teared up listening to this cause I can relate. You're a great storyteller, and I'd love to hear more(I know I'm late to the party)!
I'm sobbing over here. No darkness can survive Sailor Moon. She is love. She is light. She is life. I also had a similar experience and lost 8 years of my life because of him. I don't think I'll ever fully recover from what he did to me, but I'm proud of the person I am now and I learned to never stop doing what I want and change who I am because of a man. Thank you for sharing your story.
I feel this. I picked up building model kits, then went to learn crochet when I went through burnout and gave up my career path to preserve some semblance of myself. Something about proving to myself that I can still build something even though everything else came crashing down. I still love those hobbies I found at that low! They remind me that I still exist despite everything.
Props to those who helped you through your tough times! I'm also glad that you got past that tough time! I truly enjoy your work❤im glad he didnt get to ruin your love of the series!
Tu historia me hizo recordar mi historia con mi ex, y me ayudo a darne cuenta de lo dificil y a la vez satisfactorio que es el proceso de duelo, amo tus videos me resultan super divertidos en especial los subtitulos en español para la banda XD, pero este tan personal se ha vuelto mi favorito gracias por compartir tu historia. Y definitivamente kits y drama son una buena combinación. Te mando un abrazote enorme y gracias por este canal tan único.
This figurine looks beautiful, I'm so sorry about your past life. But now your free from that nightmare past spread your wings & fly for a better future of tomorrow.
❤❤❤ when he said 'i wanna be friends' i had a mental image of the spitting dinosaur from jurrasic park and honestly questioned how you didnt projectile vomit into his face. It was that visceral. Leona, you are so resiliant. You have worked hard at your craft, and it shows in your precision and the results you achieve. Also, VERY cute and themed nails.
This same figure was also my first. She looked so bad I didn't putty joints and barely sanded her. I don't have it anymore though. I painted her when I was 17ish and then she was one of many things that got left behind when I left an abusive ex. You have inspired me to buy a new one and remake her though.
Leona, I'd just like to say that, while I may be a lurker and hardly ever comment, you have been such an inspiration to me. I've learned knew techniques for my paintings and sculptures, skills I probably would've never developed if it wasn't for you renewing my passion for my art. Your story and the progression of this video was like watching a Phoenix rise from the ashes of what it once was into something beautiful ❤ So thank you Leona, for rising from the ashes and bringing all of us into your world of kits, we love you!
This resonated *hard* with me. The feeling of love turned to rage, and the sheer spite and stubborness to succeed despite everything stacked against you, I feel it right down to my toes.
Leona. I’m in my 30s, a little younger than you, but finally finding myself. Similar mocking for my love of Sailor Moon and anime, similar terrible relationship. I do want you to know, that while garage kits are not something I do (absolutely not allowing myself to look into them because money) watching you had actually got me back into Gunpla. Something I have loved for years but gave up in my depression. So thank you.
thank you very much for sharing! I like the story telling format but also want to keep enjoying your "regular" garage kit painting format with more focus on the process. Sometimes I just don't have the energy to invest in listening to stories, especially not if very personal and emotional, and i don't want the "worst case" scenario to be majority of your content to be too heavy for me to digest so i feel less prone to watch them at all. but maybe a healthy mix between them both can become your new regular format? I'd like that very much ^^ but in the end i want you to do what you want to do, there will always be enough fans for those truly enjoying their work and putting themselves out there. I'm certain that allowing ppl to see these personal sides of yourself will create very sturdy bonds with your audience and i don't see how that can ever be a bad thing! Please keep being you to your fullest! (Extra thanks to the BF for supporting our beloved Resin Queen into her current title!)
Usually i'm not the one who comments a lot, but at this point I wanna say thank you for sharing this story. Besides your art looking as great as always, I really enjoyed listening to your story, as I myself have suffered a lot aswell. I have found my piece in painting resin kits and doing other nerdy stuff, and kinda similar as it happened to you, through my hobby I always held onto i finally found people that would treat me like an actual human being. I would love to hear more of your stories and of course, see more of your beautiful artwork.
I'm so glad you found someone who really saw you struggling and said "let me help", several someones in fact. I recently was able to tell my miserable (call centre-working) partner "What would you do if you could do anything?" and they said "Cook" and I said "Okay. I make enough, you don't have to keep fighting at this incredibly depressing job. I got the money, you get the food, we got the kids." and they've been so much happier since. They're cooking and have taken up gardening and growing their own veggies and gotten involved with the kids' schooling and hobbies, and they're such a light to be around now. I find it's such a difference from "you have to be stay at home bleh" or whatever. It's "You don't have to be miserable", and that's worth a lot. And that your boyfriend was able to see you and support you- you deserve someone who wants to see you happy. I'm so glad you found that after dealing with the human excrement for so long.
Listening to your story is so hard- because it reminds me of my own life. Getting into a relationship at 16, with a skightly older man that I was iffy on, only to spend 6 years being strung along by pretty words. He too had been cheating on me for a year (at least!) By the time I was able to leave him. God even some of the other bits of your story hit close to home- home saying he'll move and we'll live together, me begging for more time together, being given the silent treatment when I was begging for communication. I'm so thankful for the community, friends and family I had to help me get out of his abusive grasp, and I'm glad you did too. Thank you so much for sharing, and once again beautiful work on the kit!
Leona, we are so so so happy for your own Sailor Moon-esque transformation as a person. I personally love your story times and think that it would be great to continue having on the page. Plus, it sort of feels like a friend venting and simply talking to you, which I enjoy being an ear for the people I care about. I am not sure how many would agree with me, but I really do like the story times AND your paintings. Gimme all the content! I love you as an artist (also being an artist myself) and as a creator on YT. I came to love your content because of SM, and I continue to enjoy it whether or not it is SM themed. Keep up the good work and continue your passion. We will support you every step of the way!
Leona! That's a story that I can really relate to, and its around the same time I was going through shit😅 homeless broken, but you and I made it, your story will plant good seeds for many, thanks for sharing your skills and your life!
Your story kinda reminded me of mine, tho you endure a lot longer than I did. Almost 3 year of mental and emotional abuse coupled with manipulation. That relationship put a rift between me, my family and friends and left me with more trauma than my dad gave me. It’s been 11 years since and I have grown and found my true self. The only good thing that came out of living that was finding my partner of almost 10 years. Ty so much for sharing your story, Leona. I’m happy you’re in a better place and doing something you absolutely love and is with someone who cherishes you. You deserve nothing but the best!
Oh wow Leona, thank you SO SO much to share this story with us. I am very honoured to had the chance of listening this very special and private story. This is not easy to confess it and I am very proud of all your life path. (Well, I'm nobody and we don't even know each other, so I understand that it could be weird to hear that from a stranger but...) You're a great exemple for me of determination and passion. This is really important for me. And today (O6/17/2023) I received my first garage kits.... Thanks to you and your amazing work !!! So thank you a lot to share all of these things. I really appreciate your work and the person that you are, what you want to share. This is precious for me and for a lot of the Monkeys' Army. 😊 Peace and Love 💙
Leona, don't underestimate your own storytelling abilities! I'm happy to have watched your video, not just to look at your own lovely painting skills as usual, but to know that you've became a strong woman through your personal troubles. I'm glad you overcame the bullshit that your garbage ex put you through and the emotional trauma you've dealt with your family, crappy jobs, and financial hell. My eldest niece went through similar crap when her first boyfriend cheated on her. She admitted that he was toxic as fuck, but thankfully she's with someone else now. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Please know that there are people out there who will relate.
I'm very glad I watched the entirety of this video because I felt like my story was retold to me. While my situation was different, there were points where it felt real to me. I've dealt with folks that were not so great people and one of the exes I had in high school caused so much hurt and drama within my family as well as my closest friends. Had I not noticed the red flags and my parents not forcing me against my will to give them my phone, I would not be who I am today. Theres still a bit of hurt lingering in me since 2018, but like yourself I'm now surrounded by people and mended back relationships with my family as well as in a strong relationship with a man who loves me for who I am just as much as I love them for who they are. Leona, I just want to say that I'm very proud of how far you've come. I was moved by your storytelling and teared up in some points, but I shed tears when I saw the improvement from the figure in 2006 to now in 2023. You've honestly come a long way and once again, I'm proud of you for making it so far in life and sharing us your experience. I would love to hear more of these kinds of videos since I enjoy your other ones. You make me smile and laugh whenever I watch your videos and brightens my day. Whatever story you write, tell, and publish to the channel, you bet your ass I'm rushing to watch it! Stay awesome, Leona❤️
I am sorry for the pain you had to go through. I can relate a bit.. What I have learned, and you surely did too, is that even though our past can be filled with pain and mistakes.. they helped shape us to who we are today. You have also learned that not all men are terrible creatures. I hope everyone who wants a partner, will find someone that truly loves them and supports them as your current lover does with you. I can also relate to finding something you love with the one that hurt you most. I started gaming because of the 'Dick' in my past. Always be yourself, stay true to yourself. Do what you love and keep your head up high. The resin queen is a QUEEN indeed!
thank you for sharing. i'm in the process of getting out of my own hard situation, i dropped out and have been stuck with someone shitty too, and it just...to hear that there's a possibility for people like us to end up in a better situation with people who care about us... the figure is beautiful, as always! maybe even moreso after listening to your whole story. absolutely stunning and clearly made with love!
You are the strongest person ever! I went through about the same thing! Not once but several times! But in 1999, I met the love of my life and everything got better. So proud of you for being you. Love you Leona! Nita King, OR USA.
Leona, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for sharing this story. I was in a somewhat similar situation with an ex that I have tied a good anime to and still struggle to get past that connection to watch the anime to this day. Listening to this just made me feel all sorts of emotions but overall proud of you for overcoming that nightmare and that it is over. You’re a beautiful and talented woman who deserves all the love in the world. Dick can go suck on several for the mental and emotional trauma he’s caused. I join a couple years ago (I think) after seeing your beautiful Princess Mars creation (which I am very jealous of) and can’t wait to see your future resin babies. I wish you much love and happiness ❤❤❤
Leona, this story just shows how strong you truly are. I am so glad that you found someone who truly loves you. I am also so glad that you found your art because it is amazing to see what you can do with your art. You are so strong to share something like this to the world, and I am so glad you did. Thank you for all you do and for being such an inspiration for us all.
I had a similar issues. I’m a painter. When he said he didn’t love me anymore a year to date when he proposed me. I asked him why and he said it was because i could let go of things. I threw every single painting i painted in my life time in the trash. Trying to get him back. I sat on the front porch and watched the trash collectors crush it with their truck. I’ve since started painting again and even started my own youtube, Chaos Bears production, after 10 years of losing my self. i’m working on opening my own etsy store. Thank you for sharing ❤ she came out beautiful.
I had something similar happen with a childhood friend. I didn't get to escape my birth parents then, but finding out the one person I felt was my entire world betrayed me killed something in me, this was in the middle of a shit ton of bullying and my mental health issues were starting to go into full swing. I'm older now, a whole-ass adult, and it still stings, but I have a lover now who adores me and supports me and who fights to see me succeed. Hell, we're going to live together this year in September. Even though I can't afford the meds that keep the fog away and I'm still learning to be a normal human, I feel like I can thrive through my depression. Seeing how much progress you have made gives me so much hope for my own future, kinda like a magical girl yourself lol. We love you and having the priviledge to see your art makes every day much easier. Thank you for having the courage to share this 💜
Your story made me tear up, I am so happy that you made it through and are able to share your passion today. The end result is so beautiful too, it’s very fitting that she’s standing strong at the end. I’d like to see more of this format and hear more stories. Love your channel so much, would love to know more about you too!
You are a very incredible and brave person. What you went through was absolutely awful but I am glad you rekindled your relationship with your family especially your Mom, that you’ve made incredible friends, that you have a wonderful partner and that you’ve discovered this passion and this art. I’ve been a fan of you for years and always looked forward to all your new figures. Seeing this figure completed was almost like a Phoenix that was rising from the ashes, reborn and showing how far you’ve come. We artist kick ourselves with our old works but it’s always a reminder of that first step. I’m glad you shared this story and I hope for great things for you in the future and I will be eagerly awaiting your new pieces.
Please Please Please Please Please do more stories! I watch your videos at x2 speeds and watch your kits while I work and draw and it gives me a lot of happiness. I've never been in a relationship myself, but Ive seen the damage one choice you're so unsure about can do, how it can damage you. And its nice hearing someone elses story. I hope you do more videos like this!
Your storytelling is as good as your art. I I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I was pissed, sad, happy, for you the whole time. We also had a similar experience which made me connect to it more.❤
my grandmother read my diary and told me dad about my unalive thoughts (due to her abuse) since then I am unable to write in a diary or journal. I struggle to trust anyone with my feelings and thoughts. I can so relate
This may surprise you, but it was your stories and how you tell them, that made me really come to love your channel. Your art attracted me, but your stories made me stay. Thank you
I started watching you when Princess Serenitys video came out. I was instantly hooked and loved every single minute of it. Hearing your story was so inspiring. Thank you for sharing it.
It's amazing that you took something that was reminding you of him and turned it into something only yours. Best way to show him that he is in the past. I am sorry you went through all of that, but glad proud of you that it made you stronger.
If I may, thank you for sharing your story. It can't have been easy dredging up all these memories and the fact that you did says so much. You've allowed yourself to move forward, to heal and that is what is most important. But, for all that happened, you survived, you came out stronger and in the end you've flourished beautifully. While I am always amazed by your work, I genuinely felt so drawn into your story. I did cry. I did have to pause to catch my breath before continuing. I could have chosen to stop watching, but I didn't because you decided to put your story out there and I wanted to know about you and I wanted to let you know that you were being heard. I've watched you for years and I've seen you grow as an artist and as a person and it is just so wonderful to see how you've thrived and it has shown in your art. I adore you for you being you, for being the wonderful artist you are and I will forevermore be a faithful resin monkey!❤❤
I love this new format, as well as the old tutorial like videos. I also liked seeing the more personal views of you working on the piece. Like when you pulled out and we saw you in your zone for a bit. Those are nice additions. Keep up the amazing work Leona!
I am so proud of you. You have come such a long way from 13 years ago. Just doing your thing, to physically and mentally changing. This is your era. The Leona Era. I love you and sure we may not speak everyday, but you know Hiro and I love you like family and always have your back.
Your video was very emotional. Remind me of my own "skeletons" that I really need to get rid of. If you feel confortable, please continue to share your stories. I really like this format of video as well ❤
I am kinda shy about commenting but I felt the need to tell you that I am proud of you for sharing your story. It can be hard to be positive about yourself but know you are a talented storyteller. I was so capitivated by your words I found it hard to focus on your work which I am always in awe of. The emotion was clear in your voice and words and brought me to tears. I felt similarities in your past to mine and I am glad that you were able to heal. If you ever had another story you wanted to share go for it, many of us will be waiting to hear it. The figure itself is stunning! I am always impressed by love and care you put into each piece.
Leona, I have always admired your work. Hearing this story was like an echo of my own, as I too am a victim of a cheater and liar. Don't feel ashamed for wanting to believe in someone that you loved. Being cheated on is a difficult thing, and causes a lot of really bad mental health issues and self blame, as I am all too familiar with, myself. I am glad you managed to find your real friends, and break away from the toxicity that was that sour relationship. I am also glad that your mother asked for your forgiveness, because honestly, you were well within your right to feel violated for her invading your privacy. Even if your ex turned out to be a scumbag, and your mom was right --in a sense. Your mother still had no business trying to control you and who you dated, and I think the distance you put between you two had taught her a very important lesson about parenting and that ones children are NOT ones property. The sadness she felt, I think was deserved to a point, and I hope you don't beat yourself up for hurting her, because really, she was the one who hurt herself. You were just enforcing boundaries. None the less, I am glad that things worked out in the end, and I am glad you were able to come to her without judgment and 'I told you so's when shit finally hit the fan. Dick being all angry because you refused to continue to be a storage closet for his crap is hilarious, and he deserved what he got. I am glad you managed to find a partner that actually appreciates you, and lifts you up and supports you as a good partner should. It sounds like your current beau understands that you're a team, and wants you to live your dreams and lift you up and supports your life goals. The before and after of your first garage kit is stunning and I am excited to perhaps watch more of your storytimes if that is something you want to continue doing. Regardless I will continue to watch because I enjoy your content and wish you nothing but the best.
Thank you, I genuinely don’t know what else to say but I will try to find some words. My demons are part of me, mental health problems along with a similar ‘relationship’ for lack of a better word with my father. I realise, listening to you share this that no matter the cause of our hard times we have walked a path not too dissimilar and your strength in sharing this is what I needed. I am a person that shares the need for creativity in their soul that was stolen from me for many years. It’s an integral part of my being and I have also had my share of screaming and crying as a call centre rep. I needed the kick up the ass, I need to do something drastic for myself and unapologetically pursue my art. There’s so many more similarities between our experiences - I have also been to uni a couple *cough* four *cough* times and not come out with a degree. The passion and success, although I’m sure not without it’s difficulties you have achieved is an honest inspiration. Which brings me back to: thank you. I like to think maybe this is a bit of the universe working for me.
I've never seen any of your videos, and i honestly came here to jump around to watch the painting. But your story captivated me and i watched the whole video. I think you're a wonderful story teller. And i think you're a wonderful role model. Thanks for sharing!!
Same. Not exactly the same, of course, but same. Beautiful paint job. You’ve come such a long way since your first kit. Thanks for telling your story. It’s comforting to know that we’re not alone erring in judgement of character, misplacing loyalty and trust.
Your story hit me hard. I'm happy you were able to reconnect with your mother, as someone who feels the connect to theirs getting tense. Your friends a wonderful person. I cried when you mentioned him, he's a great person. It's also karmic jutsice how "Dick" ghosted you like a coward ( I also think you took advantage of your youth and naivety) only for him to have a hissy fit when you finally cut him off and is trying to wiggle his way back into your life. Hopefully he actually learns something from this and becomes a less sh*tty person. You're one of my inspirations being a freelance artists and I wish you the best in every endeavor. 💜🦋
Amazing. One thing in dealing with the many wild things that come with life are the "come back better" stories from bad experiences. I know you like Anime figurines, but it would be telling to do a phoenix. Your experiences have gone through such stages that fire and rising from the ashes. Here's to your next great adventure!
I think my administration for you just doubled, I'm sorry you had to go through all that, I'm so glad that you are now shining high, and that I get to see your work, your videos give me happiness and inspiration ❤
You narrate a story very well, just so you know. You have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. Thank you for sharing your story. All the spots that held similarities to things gone by in my own life and feelings I also have felt as you described your own mirroring them. It made me feel even if just for a while, not alone for once. Thank you. And as always your art and creativity are utterly enviable. Your work is beautiful. I now feel that the beauty of your work reflects the beauty of your heart. I appreciate your sharing this story from your life. Again, you told it well. 😀
Oh dear, you don't even know how much this resonated with me. I had such a similar situation... I felt all of it as well. Being in love and getting heartbroken like this is what made me so bitter about it all too. Many people just deceive, just want smth for show, and hurt others in the process. But you moved on, I'm so proud of you! It took me many years for me, even though the cheating part for me only happened in like 1-2 months before my breakup. Hearing from a mutual friend later that the cheating I suspected was true, was to me more so a realization of "yeah, dear ex, you were just as sh*tty as I thought you were and you didn't have a face to tell me either that you were cheating on me... farewell" than being angry. By then, I knew I wasn't the one who was wrong, I committed a lot for something that was just not going to happen. You sparked interest for me to get into garage kit painting as a hobby too, you're inspiring and lovely
I loved the story time but still missed, every now and then, and update with what you were actually doing with the figurine, I know it’s the same steps and materials as any other video but us mere mortals can get lost, a veces me perdía y pensaba “aaaaa que está haciendo ahora?!”. But overall I enjoyed it. ❤
Thank you for sharing your story. Glad to see that you took your broken pieces and made a beautiful stained glass window to see the beauty that you bring to the world
Your storytelling was absolutely wonderful, even if what was discussed was very emotional and personal, but I am sure that you feel so much relief to have it out there! I know that others have dealt with a great deal of problems and situations in their lives, and to share them, despite how painful they may be, can help others, including you! You're loved and are surrounded with such a great community of people who adore your creations and kits and who love you for being you. Never stop being who you are, and never let anyone, for ANY REASON, dull your beautiful shine. So much love to you.
Leona, listening to your story and learning how you came to become such a cornerstone in this hobby and community was nothing short of inspirational. It shows you that beautiful things really can blossom out of horrendous situations. You are a poetic and captivating story-teller, contrary to your belief, and I genuinely found myself focusing less on you painting and more on your words. While I am sorry this happened to you, I am so happy to see where you are now in life. I have followed you for many, many years (Sailor Cosmos' first part) and getting to learn more about you has been wonderful. The updated version of this figure is gorgeous, as always. I'd love to hear more story times from you and genuinely believe that you have a natural talent for this style of format. Thank-you for sharing your story and being such an inspiration to this community!
ALL OF THIS!!!!
I loved this video as much as I loved the others 🥺 Leona's so strong and I admire her a lot 😊
Yes, you’re a true modern Van Gogh with these! 🤩
Lol I did that too, listening to the story instead of watching I mean lol
I never cried so hard. This hit hard. Break ups are not easy. It really takes a part of you that you can never get back. I'm so sorry that you went through that, but so proud how you overcame and the strength you found through this time in your life.
I feel bad for making people cry, but I'm also glad it is helping so many people the same way it helped me. Hugs!
Hello my dear monkeys! 💞
⭐Finally answering the burning question so many people have asked over the years: How I got into this hobby.
A video with heavy topics in the story, so I hope I don't scare you off.
I wanted to just come down and let you know that while making this video was hard to do, please don't feel bad for me, this is part of my past and it no longer hurts me.
Please don't judge me too harshly, we all do many stupid things in our youth, but I think I may be one of the few to take the cake, but in the end, we all learn from our actions in life.
The base for this particular piece was made by Lucia, the same artist that made Lady Amalthea participated in this video by helping me to make this element as a finishing touch for a 20 year old figure.
Some technical notes on this project: I modified the hair to make her look like it was floating, I modified her odangos to make a socket for some clear 3D printed ones, I also modified her broach to make it show accurate and also replaced her Eternal tier with one less messed up and a tad more detailed, almost all mods and additions were 3D printed 😊
Please let me know if you liked this type of format, I'd love to share more stories but I don't know if they will fit well into the type of content I make, this is actually an experiment of mine so let's see how this goes 💜
This was a great video! I'd definitely love to see more of these.
I think it was a wonderful video and honestly, if this is something, you want to continue, by all means, do it!
Thank you so much for sharing! It's given me comfort and hope for myself.
Your videos, the sailor princess series particularly, has helped me through the loss of my parents, an ex, and my chihuahua.
Thank you so much for being a shining star.
This was great, regular formant, stories doesn't matter. I enjoy all of it and if this helps you or it's what you want to do then do it.
I am so proud of you for this step forward and wish you the best
At the risk of sounding cheesy, there's something wonderful about knowing the Champion of Justice found you again and stayed by your side until you were ready to embrace your passions again.
Your story was inspirational and, as always, your work was beautiful.
Love, betrayal and garage kits. I would totally read that book!
Sending love Leona!
I’m going to be honest, story-time videos aren’t usually my cup of tea when they’re personal stories and I was thinking of skipping this one.
But, I’m glad I watched.
Our stories are so similar. In my early 20s, I lost myself in a man that almost ruined me. My mom was a single mom that was always bouncing from one love to the next. So I stayed in a shitty relationship for much longer than I ever should have because I didn’t want to mirror my mother’s serial dating.
I really enjoyed your style or story telling. You made me cry but you made me laugh as you usually do in so many of your videos. And I’m glad things have changed for you as they have for me as well. (I’m married to a wonderfully supportive man that doesn’t dim my light.)
And to see your beautiful art while listening to this story is part of the icing on the cake. She’s gorgeous.
Thank you for sharing a part of your personal life with us, Leona. ❤
Leona, I am in tears because I feel like I just heard my own story retold back, as an artist millennial who also came from a catholic mexican household. I understand you so much. Thank you so much for being brave and sharing your pain and feelings with us, for sharing this cathartic moment not only for you, but for me as well. ❤ It validates the path I've chosen to take, the feelings I've felt, and fuel the passion that drives me forward.
There's really no words I can say other than: I couldn't be more proud of who you are and for overcoming hardship like this. I'm sure your mom and your family are even more proud than I can imagine. I hope you keep doing what you love and I hope I can continue to support you for another 10 years.
You're an inspiration to me.
I was there Gandalf, 3,000 years ago, I saw you fly so low, I was always affraid you'd crash and burn. I couldn't be more proud of you my dear friend. It has been a true privilege to have crossed paths and being able to see you thrive today. With all my love and respect, I wish you to continue to grow and continue the path of success and happiness. Stay healthy your majesty.
I am usually a lurker and never comment but, please continue doing stories with your art! I would love to hear about your experiences.
Sailor Moon in so many forms has pulled me through a lot of sh*t in my life. She's what brought me here. The reveal of this figure made me sob because of the meaning it has behind it. Thank you for being brave enough to share a piece of yourself with us. 💜
Hey Leona, I've been following your work since long before your RUclips channel, probably since near the beginning of your presence online if I come to think of it. I just want you to know that your passion for what you do comes through. You've been so valuable in inspiring that passion in myself and others. Your story was heartbreaking, but also I'm just so in awe of how strong you were to come through it. I know from personal experience that it probably didn't always feels like strength at the time, but I promise you it was. It's been a delight to watch you grow more and more, not just in your GK skills (which have definitely grown over the years) but also just in how your own self-confidence and happiness shows. And I'd be delighted if you shared more of your stories, because I think you have a lot to give. Keep being you and stay awesome.
🥹🫂 thank you!
You've been through a hell of a lot Leona. It takes incredible endurance. To not only pick up GKs after all the associations with horrible pain but to also become one of the greatest virtuosos on the entire English-speaking internet. Nothing can make the hurt just magically disappear, but I genuinely applaud you and look up to you both as an artist and as a person for your diligence and strength. Thank you for always soldiering on and thank you for sharing such a personal story.
38 mins in, your story has me so invested that I have to break the tension:
Simpsons collectables? Red flag.
So much though. So much experience. So much emotion. So much growth.
Thank you for sharing this 🥲
(Would love to hear more from you if you care to make more storytimes!)
Leona, if I may, I noticeda parallel between the story and the figure you painted in this video. Upon rewatching I saw the final images again...and wow.
The new version, filled with mods, advanced techniques, a custom base, repositions to add more dynamism doesn't only reflect how much better you became at this, but also how you reclaimed what that soab stripped from you in that abusive relationship: your love for creativity, and your love for the series.
If one saw the before and after figures side by side, I bet they couldn't tell they came from the same resin parts in a cardboard box.|
You made it your own again, shared it with us in a very inspiring video, and we were and are happy to follow you (literally). Keep rocking
Just lost my job this Friday and remembered this vid. Needed a bit of something to shore up my resilience so that I can move forward. I have this coming month's rent paid and enough groceries to get me by for bit and some savings so I am not in emergency as I wait for unemployment and figure out what comes next. Thanks for this story and while you may not have meant it to be encouraging, it is!
Calling that person a "man" is an overstatement. I'm so sorry you have to go through this
Thank you for telling your story, it's been a bumpy ride for you until you found your place, and I am so glad you did.
I like both formats for different reasons, so a mix would be great ( like alternating story time and watch- and- learn- time 😊).
Also, thank you for showing your very first kit, it is amazing to see how your style evolved ❤. Looking forward to the next sessions!! Take care 😊.
And btw: I would have piled up his stuff and thrown a match in it. You were very kind and sensible in your actions towards him, and showed him a greatness of heart he truly never deserved.
Eres una mujer muy fuerte y valiente para haber pasado por todo eso y estar bien parada el día de hoy, y con seguridad puedo decirte que tienes más cojones que cualquier hombre, que desearía tener la mitad del coraje que tú tienes. Ya te admiraba de antes por tu trabajo, pero ahora lo hago aun más. Un abrazo gigante y estoy muy orgullosa de ti ❤
Your storytelling is lovely! I was captivated by it rather than the figure your were painting. The figure is lovely btw. Simply stunning!
I wanted to let you know, I cried listening to your story. I was isolated by a friend who betrayed me in a similar situation, so to me your story hit close to home. You’re right; our stories of betrayal aren’t unique, but that doesn’t make them any less poignant. Thank you for being brave enough to talk about something so deeply personal that many of us are still afraid to talk about. You’ve given me courage to be more open about my own situation. Thank you.
I'm so glad that you were able to keep your love of Sailor Moon! It can be so hard to keep the joy in those things when you share them with someone who messes you up that bad... Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
I fully understand and feel your pain. I had a very similar experience...young and getting with someone older than me while still in high school, having a mother who checked my blongings and forcing me to not see them, secretly still seeing them and going to conventions, moving away and finally having freedom to be with them, only to find out they were cheating on me almost 4 years later, being gaslite and wishing things could get better but ultimately getting mentally sick thinking everything was my fault, especially after being lied to saying they still loved me and the person they cheated on me with was almost a copy of myself down to the same birthday (even not having a job and getting addicted to an mmo afterwards). It hurts, and it's hard to know how much something like this affects your life when you're young and wanting to prove you can do it when really it turned out your mother was right.. Finding love and happiness after has been a struggle filled with doubt and selfloathing, but I'm happy that we both have found a partner who cares and mothers who still love us after that.
Wow... This story is a prime example of the phrase, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." I'm so glad that you found something good after all of that.
Oh, and I thought you told the story brilliantly. I was gripped.
As great as romance stories like Sailor Moon are, they can warp perspective of young people. Being so eager to feel loved and wanted can make someone vulnerable to mistreatment. You are a strong beautiful lady, thank you for sharing your story!
Getting to hear this story hit hard. The raw emotion in your voice hurt, but also the joy when you talked about how things are now.... It's inspiring. Thanks for telling us and being proof that you can always move forward!
Listening to your story broke my heart. I can understand what you have been through. I've had two people shatter my heart.
Watching you, and others, painting kits has been an inspiration to me. A really good friend and I are working on starting our own GK business. Hopefully, one day, one of our kits will be painted on your channel.
I'm a Brazilian and I have to say that your diction is excellent, and everything sounds very pleasant to listen to. I've watched other videos of yours, but this one touched me in a special way. Congrats on your work!
Leona, the jurney you've taken in your life all adds up to the you that you are now. If any part of it were different, then the person that is you would be different. You’ve earned everything that you are. Thank you for your story. So many young people have similar stories. You've proven that the memories of the past do not need to define who you are. Keep living your best life as you’ve earned it.
I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry at least once while watching this... Your story is incredibly heart wrenching and I, along with so many others, am so proud of you for making it out. Even if none of us know you personally, or knew you then. I'm glad you're able to live the life you love now, you definitely deserve it💕
You have a fantastic voice for story telling. Your stories don't even have to be personal. They could be funny stories, they could be someone else's stories, they could be true crime stories, or spooky stories.
I am usually a lurker and I am so proud of your personal growth. Thank you for sharing your heart with us!
Crying. Absolutely crying. It makes me proud to see how far you've come as an artist in the short time I've followed you. knowing a talent as great as yours was a light at the end of such a dark tunnel is inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story and art with us, Leona. Long live the Resin Queen!
We love you Leona, you're so brave for sharing your story! I could hear the emotion in your voice through each part and being so honest to such a large group of people can be scary, but look at you! Although I can't say I've gone through the same things as you have, I'm proud of you for facing your painful memories and being a Proud (Partially) Independent Woman! Your figure is absolutely radiant and she stands as proudly as you do! We love you Leona and I can't wait to continue this wonderful journey with you here! ❤
I've been following your videos since stumbling upon the Sailor Princess Videos when you painted Princess Mars. I've been a huge fan of Sailor Moon since 1997 when I was 10 and I still am. The connection you described in the beginning sounded wonderful and I can relate how important and beautiful such friendships are (after being bullied for being too nerdy through my whole school time I NOW have friends who really ARE friends).
It's all the more disgusting how he betrayed you.
I feel for you.
At times during this video I had tears in my eyes.
I don't know you but I enjoy your videos as if a friend told me a story. You are a good story teller and I like your sense of humour. As a few others wrote, this time I almost only heard your story and you painting Eternal Sailor Moon took a bit of a backseat to that. It takes a lot of courage to be open about one's life as you said in the beginning. Whether it's online or in the analogue world. I awe you for being this courageous and I thank you for sharing this with all of us.
Knowing you are not alone makes us stronger.
Sailor Moon is about love and friendship and hope. I am so happy you have kept/found your connection to Sailor Moon (again).
(English is not my first language so if I sound strange, I apologize for that)
Leona the vulnerability you show sharing your story is so inspiring and proves yet again why I love your channel. I’ve always loved your content and hearing this story proves it goes way deeper than the figure. Having been through something similar makes me realize the importance and impact sharing our journey has. Thank you for inspiring me in so many ways!
Omg, Leona, after hearing your background story on how your career of being an talented resin artist and finding your love and passion for art, anime and being happy in life with the one you love, Omg, this is so powerful and I want to say that I'm really relieved that you're okay and also successful in doing what makes you very happy as well as very happy that your family, your friends and future love of your life and your love for Sailor Moon and anime and art help you bounce back up again to make your dreams of being an resin artist a reality. I know how you feel- I also been through personal tough and emotional times dealing with strife and opposition from people not allowing me to pursue my happiness and dreams, but my family and friends and my love for Sailor Moon & Anime and Art always inspires me to keep going and make my dreams come true. I'm really happy you became an amazing artist and a successful and happy woman you always are today, I really love your artworks and I hope that you'll always continue to do what you always love and be happy. 💖💖💖
I really love your storytelling. You come so far with everything in your life. Sorry you have gone though the heartbreaks but glad you weathered the storm that is life. Also don't feel about about your age, even if you're not, I'm 30 years old as well. I'm a 1993 spring baby.
Your storytelling is amazing. I remember when I was in much the same place-dating a 2/10, emotionally immature, stuck-to-the-tit, narcissistic, egotistic man-child-because I was convinced-or scared-that my life would be so much worse without him. Your strength and ability to rise from the ashes is inspiring, and seeing you happy, healthy, healing, and doing what you love should encourage ANYONE. Thanks for sharing, Leona. If I wasn’t a resin monkey before (which I definitely was and am), I sure as fuck am now.
I don't remember ever watching a story video like this before till the end. Now I'm sitting here, an hour later with teary eyes.
Thank you for sharing this and for facing yourself and your pain so bravely.
Sad to say that with that trigger warning I won't be able to watch the full thing in its entirety. However, I am going to leave a comment for the algorithm and just say that, Leona, I've suffered many struggles too these past few years including losing my sister. Art has also, for me, been the healing mechanism that I needed to get past those struggles. You are amazing and your art is amazing! ❤
Leona, you have such a deep story. you don't need my sympathies for being treated like that, but you have them if you want them. your story brought tears to my eyes because it's so much like mine. i'm so happy that you're in this wonderful place in your life where you can truly do what you love with the person you love. this piece turned out so beautifully. thanks for your content. it has more impact than you might think.
I've been watching your videos for years, and I teared up listening to this cause I can relate. You're a great storyteller, and I'd love to hear more(I know I'm late to the party)!
"I'm not sure if my storytelling is any good" she says, driving me to the brink of tears.
I'm sobbing over here. No darkness can survive Sailor Moon. She is love. She is light. She is life. I also had a similar experience and lost 8 years of my life because of him. I don't think I'll ever fully recover from what he did to me, but I'm proud of the person I am now and I learned to never stop doing what I want and change who I am because of a man. Thank you for sharing your story.
I feel this. I picked up building model kits, then went to learn crochet when I went through burnout and gave up my career path to preserve some semblance of myself. Something about proving to myself that I can still build something even though everything else came crashing down. I still love those hobbies I found at that low! They remind me that I still exist despite everything.
Props to those who helped you through your tough times! I'm also glad that you got past that tough time! I truly enjoy your work❤im glad he didnt get to ruin your love of the series!
Tu historia me hizo recordar mi historia con mi ex, y me ayudo a darne cuenta de lo dificil y a la vez satisfactorio que es el proceso de duelo, amo tus videos me resultan super divertidos en especial los subtitulos en español para la banda XD, pero este tan personal se ha vuelto mi favorito gracias por compartir tu historia. Y definitivamente kits y drama son una buena combinación.
Te mando un abrazote enorme y gracias por este canal tan único.
This figurine looks beautiful, I'm so sorry about your past life. But now your free from that nightmare past spread your wings & fly for a better future of tomorrow.
I am so glad, he didn't manage to ruin Sailor Moon for you. And good for current partner on seeing you and wanting to make room for you 🥰
❤❤❤ when he said 'i wanna be friends' i had a mental image of the spitting dinosaur from jurrasic park and honestly questioned how you didnt projectile vomit into his face.
It was that visceral.
Leona, you are so resiliant. You have worked hard at your craft, and it shows in your precision and the results you achieve.
Also, VERY cute and themed nails.
Thank you for sharing, you make me cry😢❤❤❤❤
This same figure was also my first. She looked so bad I didn't putty joints and barely sanded her. I don't have it anymore though. I painted her when I was 17ish and then she was one of many things that got left behind when I left an abusive ex. You have inspired me to buy a new one and remake her though.
Leona, I'd just like to say that, while I may be a lurker and hardly ever comment, you have been such an inspiration to me. I've learned knew techniques for my paintings and sculptures, skills I probably would've never developed if it wasn't for you renewing my passion for my art. Your story and the progression of this video was like watching a Phoenix rise from the ashes of what it once was into something beautiful ❤ So thank you Leona, for rising from the ashes and bringing all of us into your world of kits, we love you!
I love that Sailor Moon helped you get out of your grief and a full new love. I'm glad you got are now in a much better place.
This resonated *hard* with me. The feeling of love turned to rage, and the sheer spite and stubborness to succeed despite everything stacked against you, I feel it right down to my toes.
Leona. I’m in my 30s, a little younger than you, but finally finding myself. Similar mocking for my love of Sailor Moon and anime, similar terrible relationship. I do want you to know, that while garage kits are not something I do (absolutely not allowing myself to look into them because money) watching you had actually got me back into Gunpla. Something I have loved for years but gave up in my depression. So thank you.
thank you very much for sharing! I like the story telling format but also want to keep enjoying your "regular" garage kit painting format with more focus on the process. Sometimes I just don't have the energy to invest in listening to stories, especially not if very personal and emotional, and i don't want the "worst case" scenario to be majority of your content to be too heavy for me to digest so i feel less prone to watch them at all. but maybe a healthy mix between them both can become your new regular format? I'd like that very much ^^
but in the end i want you to do what you want to do, there will always be enough fans for those truly enjoying their work and putting themselves out there. I'm certain that allowing ppl to see these personal sides of yourself will create very sturdy bonds with your audience and i don't see how that can ever be a bad thing! Please keep being you to your fullest!
(Extra thanks to the BF for supporting our beloved Resin Queen into her current title!)
Usually i'm not the one who comments a lot, but at this point I wanna say thank you for sharing this story. Besides your art looking as great as always, I really enjoyed listening to your story, as I myself have suffered a lot aswell. I have found my piece in painting resin kits and doing other nerdy stuff, and kinda similar as it happened to you, through my hobby I always held onto i finally found people that would treat me like an actual human being. I would love to hear more of your stories and of course, see more of your beautiful artwork.
I'm so glad you found someone who really saw you struggling and said "let me help", several someones in fact. I recently was able to tell my miserable (call centre-working) partner "What would you do if you could do anything?" and they said "Cook" and I said "Okay. I make enough, you don't have to keep fighting at this incredibly depressing job. I got the money, you get the food, we got the kids." and they've been so much happier since. They're cooking and have taken up gardening and growing their own veggies and gotten involved with the kids' schooling and hobbies, and they're such a light to be around now.
I find it's such a difference from "you have to be stay at home bleh" or whatever. It's "You don't have to be miserable", and that's worth a lot. And that your boyfriend was able to see you and support you- you deserve someone who wants to see you happy. I'm so glad you found that after dealing with the human excrement for so long.
Listening to your story is so hard- because it reminds me of my own life.
Getting into a relationship at 16, with a skightly older man that I was iffy on, only to spend 6 years being strung along by pretty words.
He too had been cheating on me for a year (at least!) By the time I was able to leave him. God even some of the other bits of your story hit close to home- home saying he'll move and we'll live together, me begging for more time together, being given the silent treatment when I was begging for communication.
I'm so thankful for the community, friends and family I had to help me get out of his abusive grasp, and I'm glad you did too.
Thank you so much for sharing, and once again beautiful work on the kit!
Leona, we are so so so happy for your own Sailor Moon-esque transformation as a person. I personally love your story times and think that it would be great to continue having on the page. Plus, it sort of feels like a friend venting and simply talking to you, which I enjoy being an ear for the people I care about. I am not sure how many would agree with me, but I really do like the story times AND your paintings. Gimme all the content! I love you as an artist (also being an artist myself) and as a creator on YT. I came to love your content because of SM, and I continue to enjoy it whether or not it is SM themed. Keep up the good work and continue your passion. We will support you every step of the way!
Leona! That's a story that I can really relate to, and its around the same time I was going through shit😅 homeless broken, but you and I made it, your story will plant good seeds for many, thanks for sharing your skills and your life!
Your story kinda reminded me of mine, tho you endure a lot longer than I did. Almost 3 year of mental and emotional abuse coupled with manipulation. That relationship put a rift between me, my family and friends and left me with more trauma than my dad gave me. It’s been 11 years since and I have grown and found my true self. The only good thing that came out of living that was finding my partner of almost 10 years.
Ty so much for sharing your story, Leona. I’m happy you’re in a better place and doing something you absolutely love and is with someone who cherishes you. You deserve nothing but the best!
Oh wow
Leona, thank you SO SO much to share this story with us. I am very honoured to had the chance of listening this very special and private story. This is not easy to confess it and I am very proud of all your life path. (Well, I'm nobody and we don't even know each other, so I understand that it could be weird to hear that from a stranger but...) You're a great exemple for me of determination and passion. This is really important for me. And today (O6/17/2023) I received my first garage kits.... Thanks to you and your amazing work !!! So thank you a lot to share all of these things. I really appreciate your work and the person that you are, what you want to share. This is precious for me and for a lot of the Monkeys' Army. 😊 Peace and Love 💙
Leona, don't underestimate your own storytelling abilities! I'm happy to have watched your video, not just to look at your own lovely painting skills as usual, but to know that you've became a strong woman through your personal troubles. I'm glad you overcame the bullshit that your garbage ex put you through and the emotional trauma you've dealt with your family, crappy jobs, and financial hell.
My eldest niece went through similar crap when her first boyfriend cheated on her. She admitted that he was toxic as fuck, but thankfully she's with someone else now.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Please know that there are people out there who will relate.
I'm very glad I watched the entirety of this video because I felt like my story was retold to me. While my situation was different, there were points where it felt real to me. I've dealt with folks that were not so great people and one of the exes I had in high school caused so much hurt and drama within my family as well as my closest friends. Had I not noticed the red flags and my parents not forcing me against my will to give them my phone, I would not be who I am today. Theres still a bit of hurt lingering in me since 2018, but like yourself I'm now surrounded by people and mended back relationships with my family as well as in a strong relationship with a man who loves me for who I am just as much as I love them for who they are.
Leona, I just want to say that I'm very proud of how far you've come. I was moved by your storytelling and teared up in some points, but I shed tears when I saw the improvement from the figure in 2006 to now in 2023. You've honestly come a long way and once again, I'm proud of you for making it so far in life and sharing us your experience.
I would love to hear more of these kinds of videos since I enjoy your other ones. You make me smile and laugh whenever I watch your videos and brightens my day. Whatever story you write, tell, and publish to the channel, you bet your ass I'm rushing to watch it!
Stay awesome, Leona❤️
I am sorry for the pain you had to go through. I can relate a bit..
What I have learned, and you surely did too, is that even though our past can be filled with pain and mistakes.. they helped shape us to who we are today.
You have also learned that not all men are terrible creatures. I hope everyone who wants a partner, will find someone that truly loves them and supports them as your current lover does with you.
I can also relate to finding something you love with the one that hurt you most. I started gaming because of the 'Dick' in my past.
Always be yourself, stay true to yourself. Do what you love and keep your head up high. The resin queen is a QUEEN indeed!
thank you for sharing. i'm in the process of getting out of my own hard situation, i dropped out and have been stuck with someone shitty too, and it just...to hear that there's a possibility for people like us to end up in a better situation with people who care about us...
the figure is beautiful, as always! maybe even moreso after listening to your whole story. absolutely stunning and clearly made with love!
You are the strongest person ever! I went through about the same thing! Not once but several times!
But in 1999, I met the love of my life and everything got better. So proud of you for being you. Love you Leona! Nita King, OR USA.
Leona, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for sharing this story. I was in a somewhat similar situation with an ex that I have tied a good anime to and still struggle to get past that connection to watch the anime to this day. Listening to this just made me feel all sorts of emotions but overall proud of you for overcoming that nightmare and that it is over. You’re a beautiful and talented woman who deserves all the love in the world. Dick can go suck on several for the mental and emotional trauma he’s caused. I join a couple years ago (I think) after seeing your beautiful Princess Mars creation (which I am very jealous of) and can’t wait to see your future resin babies. I wish you much love and happiness ❤❤❤
Leona, this story just shows how strong you truly are. I am so glad that you found someone who truly loves you. I am also so glad that you found your art because it is amazing to see what you can do with your art. You are so strong to share something like this to the world, and I am so glad you did. Thank you for all you do and for being such an inspiration for us all.
I had a similar issues. I’m a painter. When he said he didn’t love me anymore a year to date when he proposed me. I asked him why and he said it was because i could let go of things. I threw every single painting i painted in my life time in the trash. Trying to get him back. I sat on the front porch and watched the trash collectors crush it with their truck. I’ve since started painting again and even started my own youtube, Chaos Bears production, after 10 years of losing my self. i’m working on opening my own etsy store. Thank you for sharing ❤ she came out beautiful.
I had something similar happen with a childhood friend. I didn't get to escape my birth parents then, but finding out the one person I felt was my entire world betrayed me killed something in me, this was in the middle of a shit ton of bullying and my mental health issues were starting to go into full swing. I'm older now, a whole-ass adult, and it still stings, but I have a lover now who adores me and supports me and who fights to see me succeed. Hell, we're going to live together this year in September. Even though I can't afford the meds that keep the fog away and I'm still learning to be a normal human, I feel like I can thrive through my depression. Seeing how much progress you have made gives me so much hope for my own future, kinda like a magical girl yourself lol. We love you and having the priviledge to see your art makes every day much easier. Thank you for having the courage to share this 💜
Your story made me tear up, I am so happy that you made it through and are able to share your passion today. The end result is so beautiful too, it’s very fitting that she’s standing strong at the end. I’d like to see more of this format and hear more stories. Love your channel so much, would love to know more about you too!
You are a very incredible and brave person. What you went through was absolutely awful but I am glad you rekindled your relationship with your family especially your Mom, that you’ve made incredible friends, that you have a wonderful partner and that you’ve discovered this passion and this art. I’ve been a fan of you for years and always looked forward to all your new figures. Seeing this figure completed was almost like a Phoenix that was rising from the ashes, reborn and showing how far you’ve come. We artist kick ourselves with our old works but it’s always a reminder of that first step. I’m glad you shared this story and I hope for great things for you in the future and I will be eagerly awaiting your new pieces.
Please Please Please Please Please do more stories! I watch your videos at x2 speeds and watch your kits while I work and draw and it gives me a lot of happiness. I've never been in a relationship myself, but Ive seen the damage one choice you're so unsure about can do, how it can damage you. And its nice hearing someone elses story. I hope you do more videos like this!
Your storytelling is as good as your art. I I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I was pissed, sad, happy, for you the whole time. We also had a similar experience which made me connect to it more.❤
my grandmother read my diary and told me dad about my unalive thoughts (due to her abuse) since then I am unable to write in a diary or journal. I struggle to trust anyone with my feelings and thoughts. I can so relate
This may surprise you, but it was your stories and how you tell them, that made me really come to love your channel. Your art attracted me, but your stories made me stay. Thank you
I started watching you when Princess Serenitys video came out. I was instantly hooked and loved every single minute of it. Hearing your story was so inspiring. Thank you for sharing it.
It's amazing that you took something that was reminding you of him and turned it into something only yours. Best way to show him that he is in the past. I am sorry you went through all of that, but glad proud of you that it made you stronger.
If I may, thank you for sharing your story. It can't have been easy dredging up all these memories and the fact that you did says so much. You've allowed yourself to move forward, to heal and that is what is most important. But, for all that happened, you survived, you came out stronger and in the end you've flourished beautifully. While I am always amazed by your work, I genuinely felt so drawn into your story. I did cry. I did have to pause to catch my breath before continuing. I could have chosen to stop watching, but I didn't because you decided to put your story out there and I wanted to know about you and I wanted to let you know that you were being heard. I've watched you for years and I've seen you grow as an artist and as a person and it is just so wonderful to see how you've thrived and it has shown in your art.
I adore you for you being you, for being the wonderful artist you are and I will forevermore be a faithful resin monkey!❤❤
I love this new format, as well as the old tutorial like videos. I also liked seeing the more personal views of you working on the piece. Like when you pulled out and we saw you in your zone for a bit. Those are nice additions. Keep up the amazing work Leona!
I am so proud of you. You have come such a long way from 13 years ago. Just doing your thing, to physically and mentally changing. This is your era. The Leona Era. I love you and sure we may not speak everyday, but you know Hiro and I love you like family and always have your back.
Your video was very emotional. Remind me of my own "skeletons" that I really need to get rid of. If you feel confortable, please continue to share your stories. I really like this format of video as well ❤
I am kinda shy about commenting but I felt the need to tell you that I am proud of you for sharing your story. It can be hard to be positive about yourself but know you are a talented storyteller. I was so capitivated by your words I found it hard to focus on your work which I am always in awe of. The emotion was clear in your voice and words and brought me to tears. I felt similarities in your past to mine and I am glad that you were able to heal.
If you ever had another story you wanted to share go for it, many of us will be waiting to hear it.
The figure itself is stunning! I am always impressed by love and care you put into each piece.
Thanks!
Leona, I have always admired your work. Hearing this story was like an echo of my own, as I too am a victim of a cheater and liar. Don't feel ashamed for wanting to believe in someone that you loved. Being cheated on is a difficult thing, and causes a lot of really bad mental health issues and self blame, as I am all too familiar with, myself. I am glad you managed to find your real friends, and break away from the toxicity that was that sour relationship.
I am also glad that your mother asked for your forgiveness, because honestly, you were well within your right to feel violated for her invading your privacy. Even if your ex turned out to be a scumbag, and your mom was right --in a sense. Your mother still had no business trying to control you and who you dated, and I think the distance you put between you two had taught her a very important lesson about parenting and that ones children are NOT ones property. The sadness she felt, I think was deserved to a point, and I hope you don't beat yourself up for hurting her, because really, she was the one who hurt herself. You were just enforcing boundaries. None the less, I am glad that things worked out in the end, and I am glad you were able to come to her without judgment and 'I told you so's when shit finally hit the fan.
Dick being all angry because you refused to continue to be a storage closet for his crap is hilarious, and he deserved what he got. I am glad you managed to find a partner that actually appreciates you, and lifts you up and supports you as a good partner should. It sounds like your current beau understands that you're a team, and wants you to live your dreams and lift you up and supports your life goals.
The before and after of your first garage kit is stunning and I am excited to perhaps watch more of your storytimes if that is something you want to continue doing. Regardless I will continue to watch because I enjoy your content and wish you nothing but the best.
You are no just the resin queen... You are a warrior that is living her best life. Keep going on, Leona, I love you.
Thank you, I genuinely don’t know what else to say but I will try to find some words.
My demons are part of me, mental health problems along with a similar ‘relationship’ for lack of a better word with my father. I realise, listening to you share this that no matter the cause of our hard times we have walked a path not too dissimilar and your strength in sharing this is what I needed.
I am a person that shares the need for creativity in their soul that was stolen from me for many years. It’s an integral part of my being and I have also had my share of screaming and crying as a call centre rep.
I needed the kick up the ass, I need to do something drastic for myself and unapologetically pursue my art.
There’s so many more similarities between our experiences - I have also been to uni a couple *cough* four *cough* times and not come out with a degree.
The passion and success, although I’m sure not without it’s difficulties you have achieved is an honest inspiration. Which brings me back to: thank you.
I like to think maybe this is a bit of the universe working for me.
I've never seen any of your videos, and i honestly came here to jump around to watch the painting. But your story captivated me and i watched the whole video. I think you're a wonderful story teller. And i think you're a wonderful role model. Thanks for sharing!!
Same. Not exactly the same, of course, but same.
Beautiful paint job. You’ve come such a long way since your first kit.
Thanks for telling your story. It’s comforting to know that we’re not alone erring in judgement of character, misplacing loyalty and trust.
Your story hit me hard. I'm happy you were able to reconnect with your mother, as someone who feels the connect to theirs getting tense.
Your friends a wonderful person. I cried when you mentioned him, he's a great person. It's also karmic jutsice how "Dick" ghosted you like a coward ( I also think you took advantage of your youth and naivety) only for him to have a hissy fit when you finally cut him off and is trying to wiggle his way back into your life. Hopefully he actually learns something from this and becomes a less sh*tty person.
You're one of my inspirations being a freelance artists and I wish you the best in every endeavor. 💜🦋
Amazing. One thing in dealing with the many wild things that come with life are the "come back better" stories from bad experiences. I know you like Anime figurines, but it would be telling to do a phoenix. Your experiences have gone through such stages that fire and rising from the ashes. Here's to your next great adventure!
I think my administration for you just doubled, I'm sorry you had to go through all that, I'm so glad that you are now shining high, and that I get to see your work, your videos give me happiness and inspiration ❤
I just love how you found you're strength all over again.I wish the best for you and your partner
You narrate a story very well, just so you know.
You have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. Thank you for sharing your story. All the spots that held similarities to things gone by in my own life and feelings I also have felt as you described your own mirroring them. It made me feel even if just for a while, not alone for once. Thank you. And as always your art and creativity are utterly enviable. Your work is beautiful. I now feel that the beauty of your work reflects the beauty of your heart. I appreciate your sharing this story from your life. Again, you told it well. 😀
Oh dear, you don't even know how much this resonated with me. I had such a similar situation... I felt all of it as well.
Being in love and getting heartbroken like this is what made me so bitter about it all too. Many people just deceive, just want smth for show, and hurt others in the process.
But you moved on, I'm so proud of you! It took me many years for me, even though the cheating part for me only happened in like 1-2 months before my breakup. Hearing from a mutual friend later that the cheating I suspected was true, was to me more so a realization of "yeah, dear ex, you were just as sh*tty as I thought you were and you didn't have a face to tell me either that you were cheating on me... farewell" than being angry. By then, I knew I wasn't the one who was wrong, I committed a lot for something that was just not going to happen.
You sparked interest for me to get into garage kit painting as a hobby too, you're inspiring and lovely
I loved the story time but still missed, every now and then, and update with what you were actually doing with the figurine, I know it’s the same steps and materials as any other video but us mere mortals can get lost, a veces me perdía y pensaba “aaaaa que está haciendo ahora?!”. But overall I enjoyed it. ❤
Thank you for sharing your story. Glad to see that you took your broken pieces and made a beautiful stained glass window to see the beauty that you bring to the world
Your storytelling was absolutely wonderful, even if what was discussed was very emotional and personal, but I am sure that you feel so much relief to have it out there! I know that others have dealt with a great deal of problems and situations in their lives, and to share them, despite how painful they may be, can help others, including you! You're loved and are surrounded with such a great community of people who adore your creations and kits and who love you for being you. Never stop being who you are, and never let anyone, for ANY REASON, dull your beautiful shine. So much love to you.