We had the pleasure of visiting Wonder Pens in Toronto back when we attended the Scriptus Pen Show (2018? 2019?), and instantly fell in love with the shop and its owners, Liz and Jon. There was a lovely open house the day we were there with snacks and pens and pen show attendees from all over. The shop was abuzz with that frenetic energy and warmth that pen-loving people so easily generate. My husband was drawn to the tray of special egg tarts that Jon and Liz offered as treats, and WOULD NOT STOP eating them despite my hissing admonishments. “They’re GOOD!” he kept saying as I suggested that perhaps other visitors might like to try them, too. In any case, the Chans did not toss us out on our ears and we had a great time in their homey and well-stocked shop.
Since then, with great fondness in my heart, I’ve followed Wonder Pens on Instagram, and via Liz’s blog posts and weekly newsletter. The newsletter typically arrives in my inbox on Tuesday and it’s truly my favorite thing about that blah day of the week with its catalog of new shop offerings and Liz’s special brand of humor. And often, news about their two cats, Chicken and Tuna. Chicken has been their cat since he was a kitten, but Tuna showed up as a stray during the pandemic and slowly worked his way into their home and hearts. Chicken is not a fan of Tuna but Tuna adores Chicken so theirs is a story full of drama and unrequited love. Adding a bit of pathos to the story is the fact that Tuna suffers from a terminal illness. BUT he’s living a happy and well-fed life much longer than expected, thanks to the the great care he’s receiving as part of the Chan family. As a cat lover, I’m oh so invested in the story of these two Wonder Cats.
SO—when Wonder Pens offered two exclusive inks made by Dominant Industries—Ginger Chicken and Tuna Grey—there was no way that I wasn’t buying them. (For the record, this was back in 2022 before my big box o’ ink arrived, and I’d made my “no buy” pledge.) I’ve had pens inked with both colors ever since. High praise.
I was journaling with both this morning—Ginger Chicken in a Diplomat Elox and Tuna Grey in a Diplomat Aero. Great writers that are perfect matches for the dark orange and grey inks. Even the packaging makes me smile—sturdy glass bottles in little drawstring bags. Truly charming.
There’s even Chicken and Tuna washi tape—also a must-have.
The inks are as delightful as the Chan family and their beloved cats—a sweet reminder of the family’s warm welcome during our brief visit, and the ever-evolving relationship of Chicken and Tuna. Thank you, Liz and Jon, for your warm and wonderful shop, for taking such good care of Tuna, AND for not yelling at us about the egg tarts. You’re truly the best.
(Go, Tuna!!)
From the Pen Cup 