tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46749587176715889922024-03-12T23:14:55.373-05:00GeekVentureAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-71822043009918640422015-07-13T16:35:00.002-05:002015-07-13T16:35:33.982-05:00Japanese June<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--y8RGREiBqI/VaQvAKiIXwI/AAAAAAAAArE/Q3sEYM7zYV0/s1600/japanese-culture-day-malta-origami-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--y8RGREiBqI/VaQvAKiIXwI/AAAAAAAAArE/Q3sEYM7zYV0/s200/japanese-culture-day-malta-origami-300x225.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.ecenglish.com/en/social/blog/ec-central/2010/08/19/japanese-cultural-afternoon-ec-malta" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Japanese June was created on Youtube by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-RVyiwC2pk" target="_blank">LittleGhostCreations</a>. I decided to participate in this <br />
"challenge" because one of my goals for
2015 was to read more diversely. Actively seeking books written by
Japanese authors was challenging, but not impossible. I was able to
locate a variety of literature from classics to contemporary, and I've
discovered some authors that I'd love to read more from. <br />
<br />
Here's the breakdown of what I read, the format I read it in, and a brief review of each item. I did not include summaries, but I've included links to the goodreads page for each book.<br />
<br />
Fiction:<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6334.Never_Let_Me_Go" target="_blank">Never Let Me Go</a> (Format Read: Paperback)<br />
I really wanted to like this one. I really did. It didn't live up to the hype that I've seen surrounding it. It felt like the story wanted to go somewhere, but it didn't. It painted some beautiful pictures, but something was just missing the entire time I read this oI'd ne.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/169437.Botchan?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr" target="_blank">Botchan</a> (Format Read: eBook)<br />
I never realized how sarcastic and funny Japanese literature could be. This novel was written in the early 1900s. It was a quick read, and absolutely hilarious. I enjoyed this reading, immensely. I'd have rated it higher, but there were several translation issues in this edition near the end that bothered me.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12082879-rashomon-and-other-stories?from_choice=false&from_home_module=false" target="_blank">Rashomon</a> (Format Read: eBook)<br />
I read one of the stories contained in this collection during a Film and Lit class back in college. The famous Kurosawa film Rashomon was actually based on the story In a Grove, told by unreliable narrators. This was by far my favorite of all the stories included in this book. Akutagawa is a favorite in Japanese literature, and there is even an award named for him. I can understand why. I'd definitely read more of his work.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9555.The_Elephant_Vanishes" target="_blank">The Elephant Vanishes</a> (Format Read: Paperback)<br />
A few of these stories were hard to get through, but overall, I really enjoyed the experience. I even bookmarked a quote, which I don't do very often.<br />
<br />
"What a wonderful thing it is to be found by your 100% perfect other. It's a miracle, a cosmic miracle." - from <i>On Seeing the 100% Perfect Girl One Beautiful April Morning</i><br />
<br />
From "slice of life" stories to magical realism, there are a variety of experiences in this collection of short fiction. The best part of this type of writing is that you're not stuck reading through hundreds of pages if you're just not that into a story.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1337973.The_Diving_Pool" target="_blank">The Diving Pool</a> (Format Read: Paperback) <br />
These stories had a hidden darkness in them. In this collection, Ogawa seems to be exploring the darkness just below the surface of each individual. I enjoyed these stories, but they take you into the darkest corners of your mind. This was not a light happy read, but one that I'm glad that I took the time for.<br />
<br />
Manga: <br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18854858-android-angels" target="_blank">Android Angels </a>(Format Read: eBook)<br />
Cute, weird, nothing special. <br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20300526-anomal?from_choice=false&from_home_module=false" target="_blank">Anomal </a>(Format Read: eBook)<br />
The first story was the best. The rest were just ordinary. <br />
<br />
<br />
Overall Experience: I really enjoyed opening up my reading world. I hope to continue to do this throughout the year. I really feel that 2015 has been a wonderful reading year, and I'm looking forward to reading more from Japanese authors in the future.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-50832189878563724702015-05-27T19:12:00.000-05:002015-05-27T22:43:31.833-05:00Top 5 Books I will Never Read<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently joined a <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/" target="_blank">goodreads</a> group called <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/118368-top-5-wednesday" target="_blank">Top 5 Wednesdays</a> created by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/gingerreadslainey" target="_blank">gingerreadslainey</a>, and I love to read lists like these, so I thought I'd jump in and make my own. This weeks topic was "Top 5 Books I Will Never Read."<br />
<br />
There are many books in my life that I will never read. Many of those
will go unread because life just passed me by. I'm not generally one
to outright avoid specific books, but I am selective when it comes to what I choose to read. I honestly believe that life is short, and we should read good books. We should read the books that make us happy. Who cares what other people think.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXdzIcRTgXc/VWZW-EAXjgI/AAAAAAAAAp4/h4LKHx7SPmQ/s1600/top5booksneverread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXdzIcRTgXc/VWZW-EAXjgI/AAAAAAAAAp4/h4LKHx7SPmQ/s400/top5booksneverread.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Fifty Shades of Gray Trilogy</b> - Do I really need to explain this? Fifty shades of never going to read these books. EVER.<br />
<br />
<b>Twilight Series</b> - No. Just. No. I've read some of Meyer's other writing, and it hurts my brain.<br />
<br />
<b>A Tale of Two Cities</b> - I can't get through anything Charles Dickens writes without throwing it against the wall. I read some of his work in school, and while I liked most of what I read in my classes, Dickens never did it for me. Sorry, Charlie, I'm not reading anything else you have written. We're done. It's not me, it's you.<br />
<br />
<b>Moby Dick</b> - To be honest, I've never been interested in this one. I'm okay with that. I heard there's a nice chunk of the book devoted to whale anatomy though.<br />
<br />
<b>Go Set a Watchman</b> - This is a bit controversial. The reason I'm not going to read this is because I'm not 100% sure that Harper Lee really wanted it released. Until I can be certain that she agreed to this without coercion, I can't, in good faith, read it. I'm sorry.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Honorable Mentions:</b></u><br />
<br />
<b>Harry Potter Series</b> - This came out when I was 18 years old. I read the first book, and it felt like a children's book. It wasn't a worldwide phenomenon at the time. It was just a weird book that I picked up at the bookstore. I never jumped on the bandwagon. I understand the way a lot of young people feel about it, and sure, I'll let my kids read it, should I ever have children. However, I will probably never read it myself. I do enjoy the films and the stories. Hate all you want, but it just wasn't part of my canon.<br />
<br />
<b>The Fault in Our Stars</b> - The last time someone tried to get me to read this one of my friends was in Hospice dying from cancer. Telling me to read a book about sick kids dying from cancer is NOT OKAY. My friend's little sister was also battling a brain tumor at the time. Telling me to read this book is NOT OKAY. That being said, I don't want read a book about sick kids. I just don't. Okay? Okay.<br />
<br />
<br />
That wraps up my very first Top 5 Wednesday! Hoping that I keep my blog alive this time!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-391173213358868262015-02-10T10:30:00.001-06:002015-02-10T10:47:33.103-06:00Review: Morning Phase<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x19UPrkdBnE/VNoxvEOVkmI/AAAAAAAAAng/Aj7nXwcBspc/s1600/beckmorningphase.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x19UPrkdBnE/VNoxvEOVkmI/AAAAAAAAAng/Aj7nXwcBspc/s1600/beckmorningphase.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.beck.com/" target="_blank">Beck Official Site</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More than a collection of songs, Beck’s Morning Phase seamlessly transitions from one beautifully crafted piece to another. It begins like the first rays of light
filtering through the windows, picking up momentum as the album proceeds. From start to finish, it was just like waking
up. I honestly didn't want it to
end. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I've been a fan of Beck since “Loser” hit, back when I was a
precocious adolescent. His music has
evolved and grown. From his experimental
roots in lo-fi to his expertly layered pieces, Beck has matured as an
artist. His talent is impressive, and
deserving of accolade. I, for one, am
glad that he won a Grammy for this effort above the trite manufactured sounds
of the Pop Machine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip through Beck’s Morning
Phase. If you’d like to give it a
listen, the full album is available on <a href="https://www.spotify.com/" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. I plan to purchase this one; it deserves a place
with the rest of my collection.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-57621131268349745042013-05-19T00:00:00.000-05:002013-05-19T00:08:01.702-05:00Titanic: The Exhibition<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/302492_10152783775515599_905053016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/302492_10152783775515599_905053016_n.jpg" width="205" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/naturalsciences" target="_blank">Titanic Scale Model featured in the exhibit</a>.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While visiting my brother in Raleigh, I discovered that the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences was hosting an <a href="http://www.rmstitanic.net/100th-anniversary.html" target="_blank">exhibition</a> featuring <a href="http://www.rmstitanic.net/learning-center/artifacts.html" target="_blank">RMS Titanic, Inc</a>. Photos were not allowed, but if you'd like to see some of the items I saw, there are photos at the RMS Titanic, Inc site.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving at the exhibit, you receive a boarding pass with a passenger's name, and some information about the person whose name is on the pass. I received a boarding card with the name <a href="http://www.encyclopedia-titanica.org/titanic-survivor/jamila-amelia-garrett-nicola-yarred.html" target="_blank">Jamila Nicola-Yarred</a>, a 14 year old third class passenger from Lebanon. Her family was escaping religious persecution, headed for Jacksonville, Florida. She was traveling with her younger brother Elias. Their father was turned away from the Titanic due to an eye infection, so the children embarked on the journey to America alone.<br />
<br />
The exhibit began with the blueprints and building of the Titanic. There were several artifacts from the ship placed in climate controlled cases throughout the first rooms. The music they piped through had sounds of crowds mixed in. It created a unique atmosphere. Visitors passed each other, and talked about their passengers, discussing where each was from, and taking care to see the items in the cases, which included a scale model of the Titanic, and a small leather bag recovered from the wreckage.<br />
<br />
Upon entering the next room you're greeted with a more upbeat music, dance music from the era plays over cases filled with money, dishes, toiletries and decorations from the ill-fated vessel. I was most impressed with the distinction made between the serving ware used among the different class distinctions. The dishes designated for third class passengers were extremely plain, heavy duty items. It was believed the they would steal anything, and to deter theft the dishes were stamped them with the company logo.<br />
<br />
Moving forward, there was a small hallway, and a recreation of the third class quarters. The bunks were small, and it looked like a college dormitory or a barracks. As most of these passengers were planning to immigrate at Ellis Island, these were adequate accommodations for the trip to their new life. Tickets for these small spaces would cost nearly $400 today.<br />
<br />
Next we stepped onto the bridge. Housed in this room were the wheelhouse assembly and telegram which directed orders to the engine room.<br />
<br />
Our story then took a tragic turn. The ship was taking on water. There was ice in the water. Something was terribly wrong. We walked under a recreated door that would close off lower portions of the ship, and entered into one of the most well known shipwrecks of all time.<br />
<br />
A large iceberg, made of actual ice, stood off to one side. Video renderings of how the ship made her journey to the bottom of the North Atlantic on another. In between, the ghosts of passengers. Their belongings, shoes, hats, jewelry, and other personal artifacts were scattered throughout the room. The room was darker than previous spaces in the exhibit, and created a somber, sobering atmosphere.<br />
<br />
Next, we learned the fate of some passengers on the ship. The one that stands out most to me are the musicians. If you've seen the James Cameron film "Titanic" you might remember the scene with the band playing as the ship sank. That really happened.<br />
<br />
Also in this room were photographs of artifacts on the ocean floor paired with the actual artifacts, also in glass cases. There was a monitor set up with a 3D film of the Titanic in her final resting place. Covered with calcium deposits. It was incredible to see.<br />
<br />
Finally, we learned the fate of another passenger, one who never boarded the ship. He packed his bag and promised a friend that he would meet him there. Instead, he was kidnapped. He ended up lost in another country for years. His belongings made the journey, but he managed to escape tragedy. I think he might have been the original Final Destination passenger..<br />
<br />
In the final room, we discovered the names of all passengers, those who survived, and those who didn't. My passenger survived, and her <a href="http://www.thesunchronicle.com/go/tales-from-the-titanic/article_adc45d65-2657-520f-8097-700d5e3743f2.html" target="_blank">story</a> is one that I'll remember for a very long time. She heard noises and commotion, so she roused her brother, and headed to the deck, where people were boarding lifeboats. She was placed onto a lifeboat, but her brother was left on board. Distressed, she cried out for her brother, who was then placed into the boat with her. As the story goes, she was also handed an infant wrapped in a mailbag. This infant, according to everything I've read, was the last living survivor of the Titanic. It's such a beautiful story, and I really related to this young girl being given charge of her younger brother, and I couldn't help but imagine myself and my own brother on that ship. Would I have been so courageous? So brave? I'd like to think so.<br />
<br />
We exited into a small gift area, where I purchased a replica of a <a href="http://www.thetitanicstore.com/browse.cfm/titanic-china-3rd-class-coffee-mug-replica-2-3-4-h/4,183.html" target="_blank">third class passenger cup</a>. I like to think I smuggled it away from the White Star Line, to spite them for expecting the worst of the "lower class." In reality, I paid $10 for a souvenir mug.<br />
<br />
If you have the opportunity to <a href="http://www.rmstitanic.net/exhibitions.html" target="_blank">visit this exhibit, </a>you should absolutely go.<br />
<br />
I'd go again if I could.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-15365651963122748362013-05-03T21:15:00.002-05:002013-05-03T21:17:39.012-05:00Friday Night Film Review: Psycho (1960)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://content7.flixster.com/movie/68/89/78/6889781_det.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://content7.flixster.com/movie/68/89/78/6889781_det.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/psycho/" target="_blank">Soutce</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Believe it or not, I had never seen Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho until tonight. As a film buff, I'm ashamed. I'm familiar with the shower scene, then again, who isn't?<br />
<br />
Since I started watching Bates Motel on A&E last month, I thought it was time to see the film and story that inspired the prequel. When I saw it listed for viewing on one of the premium channels tonight, I figured that now was as good a time as any.<br />
<br />
Anthony Perkins is the perfect Norman Bates. Awkward and socially inept. A bit weird, but really he seems harmless. He play this part so delightfully well, I would never have suspected the horrible things that he eventually did.<br />
<br />
The shower scene didn't disappoint, and though it's not as gory as today's slasher films, it was disturbing and disorienting. Hitchcock really did make a moment that I won't forget.<br />
<br />
Atmospherically, it was as creepy as a film in the 60s could be. The score was my favorite part, escalating the terror in just a few sharp notes. It pairs beautifully with the horror that's unfolding in the story. I think if I heard that while strolling down the block, I'd pee my pants. I'm not lying. <br />
<br />
Oh, and if you even think about watching the Psycho they made in the 90s, do yourself a favor, and take a shower at the Bates Motel instead.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-86739121159942235352013-03-07T00:09:00.002-06:002013-03-07T00:11:32.992-06:00Finally, Grimm's Back!<div style="text-align: center;">
Starting this Friday, March 8th, Grimm is back on NBC. It's about time! I've missed Monroe, my favorite Blutbad!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/O5445W1ZHtA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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If you missed the first half of the season, you're really missing out. This show is really getting good.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-80086772570615126872013-02-27T18:56:00.000-06:002013-02-27T18:56:06.845-06:00International Tabletop Day!<a href="https://www.facebook.com/itswilwheaton?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Wil Wheaton</a> has been teasing it all week long, and now, here it is! <br />
<br />
My favorite <a href="http://geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">Geek & Sundry</a> venture, <a href="http://tabletop.geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">Tabletop</a>, is doing something really awesome! <a href="http://tabletopday.com/" target="_blank">International Tabletop Day</a>! Felicia Day does a better job explaining it than I ever could! <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/x3m0PIWqkfQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
The closest event to me is a couple hours away. I might just try to <strike>con a group of friends</strike> get a group of friends together to play some games. I've got an expanding collection!<br />
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Also, if you've never watched Tabletop, get thee to <a href="http://tabletop.geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">Geek & Sundry</a>, watch, get hooked, and subscribe! You know you want to!<br />
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And, in the words of Sir Wil of Wheaton, play more games!<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-45913704828875450702013-02-15T21:28:00.002-06:002013-02-15T21:47:55.879-06:00Halloween Horror Nights Recap: Better Late Than Never<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_qIj_6_W4o/UR76yaDYcSI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/jt71wVY8wOI/s1600/Jas+Butterbeer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_qIj_6_W4o/UR76yaDYcSI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/jt71wVY8wOI/s200/Jas+Butterbeer.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jas getting his first taste of Butterbeer!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We started the day with an early entrance pass to Universal Islands of Adventure. It was such a good idea to do this. We had a blast, and it was only $20 add on to our HHN tickets, making our day at Universal a whopping $60 each, which is half the price of a regular park ticket. Not bad. In October, on a Sunday, it wasn't as crowded, our waits were short, and we were able to see everything we wanted! I've been to both Universal Parks, and so I didn't need a full Universal experience, but I did want to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.Jas and I got to drink butterbeer, fly a hippogryph, and escape from Hogwarts! <br />
<br />
We even took a trip to Jurassic Park, where we were so incredibly soaked that I had to change my clothes! We even spent $5 to stand in this gigantic dryer. Some girls came off the ride soaked to the bone, and we let them hop in for the last few minutes of warm dry air.<br />
<br />
It was cooler than we expected it to be, but it is Florida, and as much as I love my home state, the weather is fickle in late October. This trip was a gift for his Birthday. He loves horror, he loves halloween. It was a win win situation!<br />
<br />
At around 6PM, we decided to head over to Universal for the main event, HHN! We got to enter through the backlot, and after a brief search, and a surrender of our tickets, we were in! We were able to see all the houses but one, and were able to ride all of the open attractions, minus the roller coaster. We even managed to get in Bill and Ted, which was hilarious.<br />
<br />
No photography allowed in the houses, so we didn't get pictures. But we got this awesome map with the house info and all the rules for the night.<br />
<br />
Silent Hill House - This was the first house we went into. It wasn't too bad. I only had one scream moment, and I had a great time! I think Jas just enjoyed having me clinging to his arm the entire time!<br />
<br />
Alice Cooper - Welcome to My Nightmare. First, you enter his mouth. Creepy. This house made me sick. Literally, so I don't remember much about it. Flashing strobe lights triggered some photo sensitivity and we had to take a break from the scares for a while. I've never had this happen before, but maybe it was a combination of the bloody freaks and the flashing lights that caused me to get so dizzy I could barely walk.<br />
<br />
We headed over to The Simpson's Ride and the MIB ride after that to settle down the crazy. Jas also decided that we needed the Express passes after that, considering the ultra long wait we had for Alice Cooper.<br />
<br />
House of Horrors - Skipped. We saw the exit in line for Alice Cooper, and based on discussion with some of the folks in line, we decided not to take a chance with the strobes.<br />
<br />
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Penn and Teller's New(kd) Las Vegas - The 3D house. This was interesting. I imagine that's what an acid trip might be like. I was tempted to take off the glasses, but I was afraid the radiation would kill me.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHGddS99Rx8/UR76ANlNVDI/AAAAAAAAAVI/admsuBfoxaA/s1600/Walkingdeadcar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHGddS99Rx8/UR76ANlNVDI/AAAAAAAAAVI/admsuBfoxaA/s200/Walkingdeadcar.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This hit me right in the feels....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Walking Dead - I'm not going to lie, this was reason #1 I wanted to make the trip to Orlando for HHN. I was not disappointed! It was a fun experience, complete with the car that waited for Sophia on the highway. *tear* I think by the time we got to this house the scareactors were tired, so it wasn't terribly scary, but seeing people in full zombie make-up was totally cool. The car was in the exit, so I was able to snap a photo.<br />
<br />
Gothic - Flying Gargoyles. I thought that was a nice touch. Some of the timing was off, so it wasn't as awesome as it could have been. All in all one of my favorite experiences that night.<br />
<br />
Dead End - Designed to look like you're entering an delapidated house. Walked up the steps onto a broken porch, and into the front door of someone's nightmare. Dolls, creepy dolls, weird midget people with boils, Bloody Mary. The atmosphere of this was incredible!<br />
<br />
The street scares weren't as intimidating as I thought they'd be. It was fun to walk around and see the ghouls, and such running through the park. They liked to chase the girls wearing the most revealing clothing, because they seemed to spook easier. I'm okay, unless someone comes at me with a chainsaw.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgwhVNhpSxw/UR74OAXbLDI/AAAAAAAAAU4/0Ymsn7TWbeE/s1600/FLUFFY!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgwhVNhpSxw/UR74OAXbLDI/AAAAAAAAAU4/0Ymsn7TWbeE/s200/FLUFFY!.jpg" width="166" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's So Fluffy I'm Gonna Die!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The only really bad thing about the experience were the drunk people. They were selling so much alcohol all night long that people were wasted, and beyond annoying. I don't care for crowded places with drunk people. As we were exiting the park they asked us to fill out a survey, where I complained about that. I'm all for people having a good time, but when I'm dodging vomit piles, and dealing with your lack of boundary issues while I'm trying to have a good time, I have a problem. Seriously. The other thing were the annoying blinky devil horns they sold to people. Ugh, they gave me a headache!<br />
<br />
Would I go again? Of course I would!<br />
<br />
I nearly forgot to mention, I got to have a ride on the brand new Despicable Me ride! It broke down (someone puked) and we had to wait for 45 minutes in Gru's living room before were able to enter. It was fun. Great for all ages, and of course you exit through the gift shop. I had to grab the pink unicorn for a photo! I am a huge geek, I know!<br />
<br />
<br />
JP Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-809522512405024942013-02-15T20:26:00.001-06:002013-02-15T20:26:09.746-06:00The Return.Real life sort of got in the way there for a while. I'm aiming to write a blog entry at least once a week, and this blog will contain more than just rants about geeky things. I'm a geek, yes, and that's a huge part of who I am. Like all of you, I have a wide range of interests, and I also have a sense of adventure. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So, back in the saddle. Ready, set, blog.<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-60296629949130593012012-10-24T21:20:00.001-05:002012-10-25T09:10:38.704-05:00Geek Vacation<a href="http://knightnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/BOO_L_Halloween-Horror-Nights-22-begins-Universal-Orlando.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://knightnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/BOO_L_Halloween-Horror-Nights-22-begins-Universal-Orlando.jpg" width="200" /></a>This weekend, I'll be on vacation, doing some geeky things. Just a quickie trip, but cram packed with some seriously fun stuff!<br />
<br />
The itinerary:<br />
<a href="http://www.osc.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=117&Itemid=181" target="_blank">Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination</a> - A Touring exhibit which just happens to be in the area while we are. Arguably the most geeky thing we will be doing this weekend. The Museum also promises to deliver quite an interesting array of other exhibits which speak to the science nerd in me.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.universalorlando.com/Theme-Parks/Islands-of-Adventure/Wizarding-World-of-Harry-Potter.aspx" target="_blank">Wizarding World of Harry Potter</a> (in Islands of Adventure) - When I found out that I could add on an admission to this park to my HHN ticket for only $20 I was sold. This will be my second visit, and I'm hoping it's less crowded than my initial visit in August of 2011. <br />
<a href="http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando/index.html" target="_blank">Halloween Horror Nights</a>- As a Florida Resident, I got a deep discount on the tickets, and I've been aching to go for ages. Once they announced a Walking Dead House, I was not missing this year. There will be other themed houses, including Alice Cooper, Penn and Teller, Gothic, Silent Hill, and Classic Monsters. Along with the houses select rides are open, including the new Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. Loved that movie, and can't wait to experience some of the less "scary" aspects of the evening.<br />
<br />
As you can see, I'm completely excited about all of this, and I'll have some write ups on them all when I return.....if I don't fall to the walkers!<br />
<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-20319033812760773182012-10-19T12:39:00.001-05:002012-10-19T12:40:45.254-05:00Set Phasers to Stunning. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wilwheaton.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Wil-Wheaton-and-Sheldon-Cooper-have-Fun-With-Flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" nea="true" src="http://wilwheaton.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Wil-Wheaton-and-Sheldon-Cooper-have-Fun-With-Flags.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://wilwheaton.net/2012/10/ill-be-having-fun-with-flags-november-8th/" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
It's pretty obvious that I'm a huge Wil Wheaton fan. He's so awesome, that I include him on my list of 5 people living or dead I'd invite over to dinner, provided he brings a board game and some of his home-brew.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I digress. He'll be appearing in an episode of Big Bang Theory on CBS. I'm thrilled to hear that he'll be returning to my favorite CBS sitcom, and I can't wait to see the episode.</div>
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<br /></div>
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According to <a href="http://wilwheaton.net/2012/10/ill-be-having-fun-with-flags-november-8th/" target="_blank">Wil</a>, the show will air on November 8th. In the meantime, enjoy the <a href="http://wilwheaton.net/2012/10/ill-be-having-fun-with-flags-november-8th/" target="_blank">picture that Wil posted on his blog </a>earlier today!</div>
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Bazinga!</div>
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-45593096211202684062012-10-03T12:51:00.004-05:002012-10-03T12:58:26.792-05:00Happy Birthday Cartoon Network!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.cdn.turner.com/v5cache/CARTOON/site/Images/i57/logo_cn20th_birthday.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="73" src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/v5cache/CARTOON/site/Images/i57/logo_cn20th_birthday.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/birthday/index.html?atclk_gn=picker_Cartoon_Network_20th_Birthda" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Can you believe that <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/" target="_blank">Cartoon Network</a> is 20 years old? They brought us <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/ppg/index.html?atclk_gn=picker_Powerpuff_Girls" target="_blank">The Power Puff Girls</a>, <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/dexter/index.html?atclk_gn=picker_Dexters_Laboratory" target="_blank">Dexter's Laboratory</a>, and <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/adventuretime/index.html?atclk_gn=picker_Adventure_Time" target="_blank">Adventure Time</a>. Adult Swim brought back Futurama.<br />
<br />
When I was a youngling, I faked sick to watch Hanna Barbera cartoons. It's changed a lot in the last 2 decades, but it's always been one of my favorite places on basic cable. <br />
<br />
They're even doing some fun things for their big milestone birthday! <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/birthday/index.html" target="_blank">Vote for your favorites</a>!<br />
<br />
Cartoon Network, you've come a long way baby. I'm glad to say I've been there from the start!<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-73242407029610819292012-09-25T23:48:00.001-05:002012-09-25T23:48:23.772-05:00Ben Folds Five + Fraggle Rock<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, my dear. A favorite from my childhood and a favorite from my late teens just collided in awesome. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mEyrfFwf3rI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ben Folds, you're my freaking hero.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
JP</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-63439870642496734832012-09-20T22:06:00.002-05:002012-09-20T22:06:27.737-05:00Theeeeeeey're Back!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1163141.1348093549%21/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/article-furby-0919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1163141.1348093549%21/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/article-furby-0919.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/furby-lego-skylanders-tops-kids-holiday-season-hot-toy-list-article-1.1163114" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, parents, your worst nightmare has returned, that creepy creature that won't stop talking, the <a href="http://www.furby.com/en_US/" target="_blank">Furby</a>. <br />
<br />
Some of you may wax nostalgic for these minions of your childhood, however, when the Furby came along 14 years ago, I was 17. If I'd had Furby Fever, that would have been social suicide. <br />
<br />
It's not to say I was free from the annoying toys of childhood. Growing up I had something called a <a href="http://youtu.be/1gRT8mcr8LY" target="_blank">Chubble</a>. I like to think of it as a
primitive <a href="http://www.furby.com/" target="_blank">Furby</a>. It was light reactive, and the ONLY way to turn it
off was to yank the 9-volt battery from it's butt. <br />
<br />
I'll be honest, when Furby was introduced, the only thing I wanted to do was dissect it. I swore that they were minions of the devil, because, let's face it, they looked like furry demons, and they lack an off switch. Tell me that's not downright diabolical. <br />
<br />
Fast forward to the reinvented <a href="http://dvice.com/archives/2012/07/furby-returns-f.php" target="_blank">Furby</a>. Unlike the original Furby which just wobbled, blinked, and spoke in a nearly unintelligible robotic voice, this thing moves, speaks more clearly, and it can show emotion because of the LCD eyes. It is way more interactive, and it's also way more creepy. I like to call this the Skynet Furby because of the way it can interact with the Apple iOS (and eventually Android). <br />
<br />
Engadget has a pretty neat <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/06/furby-hands-on-video/" target="_blank">hands-on review</a>, complete with 2 videos that will show you just what you're getting yourself into if you invite one of them into your home. I'm thoroughly convinced that you could program this version to be an evil minion. I wonder if my engineer brother wants to try that out. No? Was worth a shot.<br />
<br />
Rumor has it that this is going to be a <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/furby-lego-skylanders-tops-kids-holiday-season-hot-toy-list-article-1.1163114" target="_blank">pretty popular to</a>y this year. So, parents, brush up on your Furbish, and for heaven's sake, don't get it wet, and don't feed it after midnight.<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-29603078434118682372012-09-17T22:15:00.000-05:002012-09-17T22:16:25.789-05:00Revolution has arrived.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cTehR_GgEFI/UFfmMXCE9kI/AAAAAAAAARA/jnAvdi7pVv4/s1600/NBC_Revolution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cTehR_GgEFI/UFfmMXCE9kI/AAAAAAAAARA/jnAvdi7pVv4/s200/NBC_Revolution.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>(<a href="http://durancemagazine.org/2012/05/upfronts-nbc-reveals-trailers-for-new-series-gives-premiere-dates-for-the-voice-revolution/" target="_blank">Source</a>)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Facebook is on fire with commentary about <a href="http://www.nbc.com/revolution/" target="_blank">Revolution</a>. Most of it from my friends who consider themselves experts in science, survivalism, and science fiction/fantasy. They're the continuity freaks, the ones who tuned out of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0411008/" target="_blank">Lost</a> when the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjJOIHb4vxs" target="_blank">Polar Bear</a> showed up. They're the ones who assume that all of this world's rules apply in fantasy/science fiction. It's not meant to be taken literally, it's J.J. Abrams for cryin' out
loud! Going into it, I know I can expect certain rules of reality not
to apply, and so I settled in.<br />
<br />
This show has been on my radar since I saw the first teasers
earlier this summer. The premise is intriguing, and I admit, I took the
bait. Ignoring my nay saying friends who already have a hate on for
the show, I kept an open mind. My honest opinion? I quite enjoyed it. It's something different in a sea of Procedural Crime Drama XYZ, and Unrelatable-Not Funny Sitcoms. Consider Revolution penciled into my Monday Nights. <br />
<br />
<br />
It deserves a chance to be taken for what it is. A dystopial fantastical joyride in a world that we couldn't possibly understand after a one hour episode. <a href="http://www.nbc.com/revolution/video/pilot/1415378/" target="_blank">NBC</a> has it available for viewing right now. <br />
<br />
All you haters can go watch Football.<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-54541748936406777452012-09-15T00:00:00.002-05:002012-09-15T00:03:45.123-05:00Star Stuff<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT-jNm2AtrtlPofQEQhu9p5HpNAQiem15kE2RWwgIEGlzLi_PJ6Xw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT-jNm2AtrtlPofQEQhu9p5HpNAQiem15kE2RWwgIEGlzLi_PJ6Xw" width="200" /></a></div>
Growing up, one of
my favorite subjects was science I even had a play house in the back yard
which I called my "Mad Scientist Laboratory." I was not the typical
little girl. I wanted to be either an equine veterinarian or a marine biologist when I grew up. I didn't end up doing either of those things, but I still have a love and appreciation for science to this
day. I think it's led me to my most recent sort of obsession. Carl
Sagan's Cosmos. He sort of looks like a creepy cult leader in those
turtlenecks, don't you think?<br />
<br />
I
was having a pretty rough week, I wanted something to drown out the
static in my head, so I headed over to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/" target="_blank">youtube</a> and started sidebar
surfing. While doing this, I found the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/melodysheep?feature=CAQQwRs%3D" target="_blank">Symphony of Science</a> videos. If
you haven't checked those out, I totally recommend them. They are fantastic, but I wanted more. So I googled it, like any child of the internet generation would, and I stumbled across the Cosmos series on <a href="http://www.hulu.com/cosmos" target="_blank">Hulu</a>. Oh, and it's free. <br />
<br />
I decided to turn it on as late afternoon background noise. I am incredibly impressed with this. Sagan
is very well spoken, almost poetic in his description of the Cosmos.
Despite the fact that it was created in the late 70s, very little of the
scientific facts have changed. It's fascinating. If you're interested
in space, the universe, life on earth, and the possibility of life
elsewhere, it's definitely worth checking out. I have learned so much,
and gained so much perspective from this series. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has reignited
my passion for science. My love for deductive reasoning. My hope that
one day we can put aside all of our differences, and come together as
the Human Species, to take care of this, our home.<br />
</div>
Never stop learning. Never stop searching for answers.<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-69046878305323501212012-09-07T17:57:00.002-05:002012-09-08T00:08:01.170-05:00Geeks in Love.<br />
After 20 years together, two acquaintances of mine have pulled off the most awesome wedding ever! They decided to recreate the cover of <a href="http://marvel.com/news/story/18802/sneak_peek_astonishing_x-men_51" target="_blank">Astonishing X-Men #51</a> where Northstar marries boyfriend Kyle Jindau. They celebrated their union at Atlanta's Dragon*Con. I wish these two fantastic gentlemen all the best. <br />
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/prcMLZn5_dw/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/prcMLZn5_dw&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/prcMLZn5_dw&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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<h3 style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
Congratulations Brian and George! I wish you all the best! </h3>
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<pre>JP</pre>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-30284497748268078342012-09-07T00:35:00.000-05:002012-09-07T22:06:14.647-05:00Instacube!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQoGW7A4Lwm8fO229gnLxXjKKPdOMu8jGiblU9oGVoEgO4quS8RUw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQoGW7A4Lwm8fO229gnLxXjKKPdOMu8jGiblU9oGVoEgO4quS8RUw" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1084349160/instacube-a-living-canvas-for-your-instagram-photo" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was just about to head to bed, when I made the most amazing discovery on Pinterest. <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1084349160/instacube-a-living-canvas-for-your-instagram-photo" target="_blank">Instacube!</a><br />
<br />
Another really awesome project funded through kickstarter. If I haven't already said it, I love that program. It allows creative, intuitive minds to bring their products and inventions to the market through the support of all kinds of people. From corporations to individuals. Amazing. Okay, back on topic.<br />
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What is Instacube? Basically, it's a gadget that streams instagram. I would buy it. Why? Because I'm obsessed with Instagram. Don't believe me? You obviously don't follow me on Facebook. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSv6ooaNAJpTwn7HZOBsBEQfKpeL2TEXnB8yGMbryvONzX64YoyNw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSv6ooaNAJpTwn7HZOBsBEQfKpeL2TEXnB8yGMbryvONzX64YoyNw" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1084349160/instacube-a-living-canvas-for-your-instagram-photo" target="_blank">Soutce</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It looks like it has the financial backing, so there's a good chance we could see this available soon! I'm probably a little too excited about this, but, I can't help it. Seriously, sign me up. <br />
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I know there are digital photo frames that can pull photos from a memory card. Don't get me wrong, they're great. Love them. My grandfather has one. I do have one small issue with them. You have to switch out memory cards and constantly update your photos.<br />
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With Instacube, you get new photos when your Instagram account does. You can scroll through your library, your feed, all kinds of hashtags. Want to see pics of the beach? It can do that!<br />
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If you want to see more, their kickstarter page has a great video. I tend to get really geeky excited about the weirdest stuff. Sure, this will probably be a fad item, and when Instagram goes the way of Myspace, well, I suppose I'll have to figure out a new use for this cool little box.<br />
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Now, you can have photos of your friends' lunch on your desk! Imagine the possiblities!<br />
<br />
JP <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-33011434113839305552012-08-29T23:34:00.002-05:002012-08-29T23:34:28.792-05:00I'm Burning Up the Sun to Say Goodbye.I'm just now getting on the Doctor Who bandwagon. I don't know why I didn't get on the ride sooner. I just finished up season two, and I cried like a little girl. So. Sad. Heart. Broken. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3s-lnP0PRA/UD7rziZIj_I/AAAAAAAAAPM/3ELSgco9S4I/s1600/Doc+Rose+Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3s-lnP0PRA/UD7rziZIj_I/AAAAAAAAAPM/3ELSgco9S4I/s320/Doc+Rose+Wall.jpg" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://doctorwhoandthetardis.tumblr.com/post/7379091441/on-this-day-in-doctor-who-history-o-doomsday" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
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<br />
I know this is a little hypocritical, but the Doctor/Rose dynamic is still a better love story than Twilight. It's a time travel thing. Age is irrelevant.<br />
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I'm gonna miss you, Rose Tyler.<br />
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JP<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-88763508077250378702012-08-26T00:20:00.000-05:002012-08-26T00:27:47.370-05:00Will CW Take an Arrow to the Knee?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nerdreactor.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/CW-Arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://nerdreactor.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/CW-Arrow.jpg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://nerdreactor.com/2012/05/18/the-cws-arrow-without-the-green-gets-a-new-preview/" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
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2012 has been the year of Archery.<br />
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First, Katniss Everdeen burst onto the scene catching the world on fire and pissing off the establishment in The Hunger Games. Then Hawkeye kicked a bunch of alien ass in The Avengers. Later in the summer, Merida stole our hearts in Brave. Now, coming in October on The CW, there's a new arrow slinger on the block, The Arrow. It's enough to make me want to take archery lessons. <br />
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The CW's new show, Arrow, isn't based on the Green Arrow, or is it? According to the CW, it's loosely based on the comic. This just means that the characters share some similarities, like names, but the story lines will not necessarily run parallel with the comics. I guess they don't want to upset diehard fans if they change or completely ignore a few
minor details. Don't look at me that way, fanboys, you know I'm telling the
truth. I know you. <br />
<br />
They've really been pushing this series, and I guess I'm buying into the hype, because I'm really looking forward to watching. The promos are slick, and they've
got me reserving October 10 to sit down in front of my TV. Yes, I'm one
of those people who prefers to watch it when it airs rather than wait
until it shows up online. I'm old school that way.<br />
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Want to catch a glimpse of Arrow in action? Check out the trailer, and a couple of other clips over at <a href="http://www.cwtv.com/shows/arrow" target="_blank">The CW</a>. <br />
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JP<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-47214532662450460272012-08-24T02:23:00.000-05:002012-08-24T02:26:27.928-05:00What if Carly Rae Jepsen Wrote Doctor Who?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wArk5BC0J8U/UDcrPEveEqI/AAAAAAAAAO8/FAQhTSn-9gk/s1600/Carly+Rae+Doctor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wArk5BC0J8U/UDcrPEveEqI/AAAAAAAAAO8/FAQhTSn-9gk/s1600/Carly+Rae+Doctor.png" /> </a></div>
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This is what happens when I can't fall asleep, and I've watched entirely too much Doctor Who. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-50582852428900182872012-08-23T23:34:00.000-05:002012-08-24T00:03:33.680-05:00Around the Blogiverse: Wesley Crusher Evolved<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/464363411547897943_ZYezWNIw_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/464363411547897943_ZYezWNIw_f.jpg" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://wilwheaton.tumblr.com/post/29970494565/i-know-you-want-to-colour-this-make-it-your-own" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
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If you don't already know this, I'm a huge fan of Wil Wheaton. I don't want to sound like a creepy stalker fan girl, but I follow him on pretty much all social media, and I regularly watch his <a href="http://geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">Geek and Sundry</a> production, <a href="http://tabletop.geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">TableTop</a>. That's how I came across the internet phenomenon that he coaxed into creation. He tweeted a request to the interwebs to basically color in/vandalize a coloring page from the Star Trek: TNG Coloring and Activity Book . <br />
<br />
He has since posted lots of these onto a <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">pinterest</a> board called <a href="http://pinterest.com/wilwheaton/wesley-crusher-evolved/" target="_blank">Wesley Crusher Evolved</a>.So much creativity. Some are a little, uhm, questionable. I created <a href="https://twitter.com/shewouldstay/status/238332845557415936/photo/1" target="_blank">one</a>, but it doesn't seem to have found it's way to Mr. Wheaton, yet. The internet is huge and vast, and it's likely that it got lost in the universe of junk out there. It was sort of a tribute to his work in "<a href="http://theguild.geekandsundry.com/" target="_blank">The Guild</a>" using some artwork from the comic, crappily pasted into Photoshop. It's pretty embarrassing.<br />
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At any rate, I'm sure he won't mind seeing more of these floating out there in the internets, so create your own Wheaton. It's a lot of fun, but you don't have to take my word for it.<br />
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Keep Calm and Color On.<br />
<br />
JPAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-14398854989044005822012-08-17T20:48:00.001-05:002012-08-17T20:48:28.046-05:00B-Ouya!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Check this out! The <a href="http://www.ouya.tv/" target="_blank">Ouya</a>, which more than exceeded its Kickstarter goal, is going to be made. This thing is super cool!</div>
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://3.gvt0.com/vi/xh6Ji_6Wg9c/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xh6Ji_6Wg9c&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xh6Ji_6Wg9c&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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It's an open source console, which means it will bring all kinds of innovation to the table, and give us, the users, something we want, instead of something the developers and the suits think we do.</div>
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Beyond the idea that it can be hacked without voiding your warranty, this is an interesting concept. I love games. That's no secret. All the games that will be available are going to be free to play. With that, I'm pretty much sold. I get really bored with games quickly, and it's safe to assume that I've never played a game through until completion, unless you count max levelling and being a member of a raid group for WoW (I don't). This is why I like the free. I don't feel bad when I just stop playing. </div>
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Will I be buying this? Absolutely. Especially with the $99 price tag.</div>
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Game on.</div>
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JP</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-70012872716565198672012-08-15T20:32:00.003-05:002012-08-15T20:32:54.123-05:00Frakkin' Interwebz!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is how I feel when I'm trying to watch Dr. Who on Netflix, and the internet connectivity is acting shady. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.watchtheguild.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/S05E10_BleepingMe.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.watchtheguild.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/S05E10_BleepingMe.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://watchtheguild.tumblr.com/post/10786801429/animated-gif-spoiler-vork-in-s5-episode-10" target="_blank">From The Guild</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I want to rage quit, but I want to finish ONE more episode!</div>
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JP </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4674958717671588992.post-24210029389545455932012-08-14T21:20:00.000-05:002012-08-14T21:20:36.645-05:00Game Night: Zombie Fluxx<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.looneylabs.com/sites/default/files/ZF.box_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.looneylabs.com/sites/default/files/ZF.box_.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.looneylabs.com/games/zombie-fluxx" target="_blank">Source</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
JB and I typically play Magic on Tuesday nights, but since I have to work, we're going to try something a little different. It's primary election night here, and I'm being asked to do data entry for election results. Since Magic can get quite consuming, I figured we could play something a little different that would be a little less intense. Enter: Zombie Fluxx.<br />
<br />
I've been thinking about this game since I spied it at Arena Comics on Free Comic Day back in May. I didn't pick it up until this past weekend, when I was in the vicinity of Barnes & Noble.<br />
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Easy to set up. Easy to play. We could barely play one game, because I was so busy, but we had a good time until I pulled "Larry the Creeper" which is basically "Game Over" when it's only 2 players. Since we didn't get a chance to really get into a game, I'll be bringing it over to our friends' Monthly Video Game Day. <br />
<br />
I'm willing to bet this would be fun, even if you're not a zombie aficionado. This game is standalone, but it's also compatible with other Fluxx decks as well. The variety of games available is amazing. Oz Fluxx, Martian Fluxx, Monty Python Fluxx, and Family Fluxx, just to name a few.<br />
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Totally worth the price tag for the hours of use I'll be getting out of this one. <br />
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Just remember...Double Tap.<br />
<br />
JP <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397861686883992849noreply@blogger.com1