Avengers (extras) Assemble!

I woke early this morning, to attend the casting call for extras in the new Avengers movie to be filmed in downtown Cleveland in August.  Since I missed the call yesterday, this was the last chance.  The only request was to dress in business attire.  So I went with by recently pressed black suit, and bold blue dress shirt with a colorful tie, and my black patent leather shoes.

 I arrived early for the 10:00AM start (I thought), arriving at the hotel before 9:30AM, but should have known when I was already re-directed out into another business parking lot, that I was going to be far back in line.  At the time I had no idea how far back in line.

But everyone was in good spirits, despite the high temps, beating Sun, and hot pavement.  Much talk about movies, and in particular superhero movies, kept things lively.  About halfway though the waiting line, the hotel staff sent out some employees with a cart of cool waters for $2.00.  They radioed back that they needed more.

Finally at about 12:45PM my group of 30 was allowed in the hotel.  We filled out an easy application sheet requesting only the most basic of contact information (blue sheets for boys, pink for girls!), age, height, etc.  Then they had everyone line up, take a number (mine was in the 2200's, and I think they started the morning at 0001!), and two at a time they snapped our photos.  Then I was done.  This part of the process only required about ten minutes.  I was back in my car by 1:10PM. 

Whether or not I actually get called, it was just fun to see the process, and have tried out.

McDoogle

Book Review: A Farewell to Arms

A story about love and war. Or the senselessness of war… and love. As at the end the main character Lieutenant Fred Henry loses both.

I’ve always heard rave reviews of Hemingway’s writing, and decided I would try to squeeze one of his novels into my reading list if I could find one. Eventually I found ‘A Farewell to Arms’. I was surprised to discover this book was first published in 1929, thinking Hemingway was more a contemporary, maybe just a generation older. However the paperback edition I found was even older than me, published in 1955 (only 35 cents cover price).

I researched a bit and this story really is a reflection of Ernest Hemingway’s experiences from World War I. Like the main character, he was an ambulance driver in the Italian army. He was seriously wounded in the legs, received medals, and while recovering a few months in a field hospital fell in love with a lovely nurse.

The story varies (I think) a bit from there, as a retreat, the loss of his ambulances, almost being shot for being at by the Italians during the retreat for being an officer, he gives up on the war, after only escaping during a moment of confusion by diving into the river.

It was interesting to read about all of the soldiers together talking about wishing the war was over, and debating the merits of just giving up to end it all. It was refreshing to see that even in WWI there was opposition to war and other than the leaders no one wanted to be there.

The narrative style was very interesting. At one point I noticed that I was reading a paragraph where at least five people were talking, yet I could make sense of it all and knew exactly who was saying what. I’m sure if I’d written a paragraph like that someone would crit that I’d lost my point of view. Also a lot of short sharp to the point sentences in dialogs.

I’m glad I read this book, and will be on the lookout for more Hemingway’s - even though I‘ve heard there‘s not much chance they are going to be any more cheerful.

Grade: C+

McDoogle

Your challenge:  Sneak behind enemy lines.  Defuse a bomb.  Return to home base via the sea.

Paine Falls Photos

Now available for your viewing pleasure:  Our trip to Paine Falls.  A new slideshow has been added. 

These photos were taken on a sunny Sunday in October a few years ago.  I loved the tall trees looking upward, and all of the fall colors. 

Hope you enjoy them too!

McDoogle

Movie Review: Green Lantern

It was a cloudy Saturday afternoon as I paid for our tickets to 'Green Lantern'.  I was expected it to be a little more for the 3D showing, but $10.25 per ticket?  For the matinee?!    That said, if you're going to shell out a few extra bucks for a movie, Green Lantern is an excellent environment for 3D.  Space scenes, fighter jets, and a large space villain.  Also, I thought the Guardians of Oa, looked realistic is 3D.  In the closing credits, as the galaxy was spinning behind the credits, I really did feel a little dizzy.

Acting wise, I've never liked Ryan Reynolds in anything he's even been in (2 Guys, A Girl, and A Pizza, etc.).  Always seemed like a real hack of a cornball.  But, surprisingly, he really did a decent job as Hal Jordan.  Fearless and cocky when necessary, yet authentically humble at the right times.  Reynolds made a believer out of me - good choice for GL!

The performance that really stood out was Peter Sarsgaard's performance as Hector Hammond.  Yes, he turned out to be a villain, but Saragaard, really had me pulling for the poor guy, to the bitter end.  Misunderstood genius.  A little off the norm, so not one of the 'in' crowd.  Not handsome, slightly hunch backed, but a decent guy trying to make something out of life's many lemons.  Just SO believable.  Excellent work Peter Sarsgaard!

None of the other performances really stood out.  Well, perhaps Mark Strong as Sinestro.  He did had a strong performance too as the GL who seemed to be the elder leader, and the strength and determination to never give in to fear of all of the GL's, standing up to the Guardians.

 

Story wise:  I did know the origins of Green Lantern, having collected his comics from as early on as issue #9.  The movie did an accurate and interesting portrayal of Hal Jordan becoming the next GL for Space Sector #2814 (of 3600).  I don't recall the villain Parallax.  The broken pillar in the sphere of Guardians was a nice effect to represent the wayward Oa Guardian.  I liked the story tying in Hal's indecisiveness and inexperience with being a Lantern, with evolving of the character Hector Hammond to evil, with the threat of Parallax to the whole earth.   I don't think the movie tried to pull off too much.  It seemed 'just right'.  And I loved Hal's solution in defeating Parallax.  Great creativity with his new skills as a GL, and nice effects too!  Liked it very much.

As we roll the credits, stay seated, and learn the secret of Sinestro.  I already known the secret having been a fan, as mentioned earlier in the classic Green Lantern #9.  But J was not aware of the storyline and was heard to exclaim: 'No!'.  Don't miss it.

My recommendation is to go and see Green Lantern.  And the extra $3.50 for the 3D is worth it in this case.

Grade: B+

McDoogle

Your Challenge:  Create your own power ring out of string, pop tops, egg shells, or orange peels.  Then use your will power to create a small poodle, and perhaps a can of Alpo.

Auburn: Home of the Cornfest!

My home town.  Known for... the Cornfest! 

I have finally figured out how to store some of my photos online in Albums.  So on my recent trip to Auburn, I snapped a few pictures of... well, corn!

And some old country roads, fields, grain elevators, railroads, and silos.

Look for the link to this photo album in My Photos

McDoogle

Book Review: Brisingr

Brisingr was this year's novel for the annual reading race with my nephew. He really enjoys this series. I was not enamored by this latest edition however.

 Intersting beginning and ending but the middle seemed long and really dragged. And in a novel of 748 pages. It's a very long middle. Paolini may have thought it gave more freedom for character developement to streach of the story and add a fourth novel to the series. But I think it really bogged down the storyline.

The first hundred pages may be the most interesting. Eragon, his blue dragon Saphira, and his cousin Roran make a rescue mission into Empire territory to save his fiancee Katrina.

In the last hundred pages I didn't find the battle for the city of Feinster which Eragon, Saphira, Arya, and the army of the Varden against the Empire, as I liked the concurrent battle taking place in the skies over the forest of Du Weldenvarden. In this battle, Eragon's half brother Murtagh and the new red dragon Thorn battle his mentor the elf Oromis and the golden dragon Gleadr. Oromis and Gleadr are the last of the surviving draginriders, unknown to all that they had actually survived King Galbatrox's attacks of all riders previously.

There is a lot of foreshadowing in this story which leads me to believe that Eragon is going to suffer a devastating defeat that will require him to flee to some mysterious 'hidden' place. Ultimately we all know Eragon will somehow defeat Galbatrox in the end. But the storylines also allude that while Eragon may win the battle, he will also be forced to leave the land of Alagaesia forever.

I found it frustrating how naive Eragon was made to be. In the battle with the Shade Ra'zor to free Katrina in the caves, Ra'zor realizes he is doomed and attempts to deal for his life with Eragon. Ra'zor reveals an Empire secret: "Galbatrox has almost found the name!" But Eragon, not sure what the name is, refuses to deal and kills Ra'zor anyway. Not only does Eragon not take this seriously, he doesn't even inform the Varden, who might realize what the secret means, and take appropiate action. Surely this is going to be a big mistake.

Also odd... on the way back from freeing Katrina, Eragon finds an abandoned elven outpost. Exploring the inside, not only does Eragon find many old books and scrolls. But he also finds a strange man named Tenga. Tenga is reseaching the scrolls looking for 'the answer' although he doesn't know 'the question'. Eragon assumes the old man is nuts and leaves him be. Also not informing anyone who might find this information useful. I'm Tenga will show up again in Book IV at some point.

My final thought is about the character called Sloan. This might turn into an intersting storyline. We'll see. Sloan is Katrina's father and was also captured, tortured and trapped in the same cave dungeons as Katrina. Eragon finds Sloan, but reports to Katrina and Roran that he didn't survive. Sloan is a bitter, and now blind, old man who blames Eragon for all of the ills of the current world. Once they are alone Eragon sets him free. But knowing that a blind old man could not survive long in the wilderness, Eragon installs a mental compass in Sloan, always pointing in the direction of the elven forest Du Weldenvarden, if Sloan chooses to follow that path, he may survive. Later, Eragon finds that Sloan has found the forest and survived, but he is still bitter and ungrateful. Will Sloan's make-up change in Book IV? Hopefully Paolini will make good use of this character.

If you are not a fan of the first 2 book in this series, I would not recommend Brisingr. But you you liked the story so far, I would endure the muddling middle of this book and hope the fourth and final of the series rewards us all for our patience as the original 'Eragon' did.

Grade: C-

McDoogle

New Poll for 2010: Constellations!

What is your favorite Constellation? 

I have listed fourteen of my favorites to vote on.  If you are a little foggy on the names of some of the constellations, or remembering which are which, you can get some help by clicking: Here! 

I decided to go with an astronomy related poll this year, since in 2009, my interest in space was renewed.  We went to the MetroParks for several night lectures during the year and even saw on separate occasions, the rings of Saturn, and Jupiter.  On the night we observed Jupiter, four of it's moons were visible, and the telescope was so good, that I can even see some of the stripes on the planet.  It was pretty cool!

If you vote for 'Other', please leave a comment as to which constellation you like that is not on the list. Any comments on what constellations you like and why, would be greatly appreciated.  Plus then I'll tell you mine, and why...

 

Also, I'm hoping to update the links a bit, so there are a few more Astronomy sites to click on.

Enjoy, and keep watching the night sky!

McDoogle

Your Challenge:  The night sky photo contains a constellation.  Do you see it?  Can you tell which one it is???  It is in the list of constellations to vote on.  Bonus points to the person you figures it out first!

Movie Review: Sherlock Holmes

We went to see Sherlock Holmes on Christmas day, not realizing it was Opening Day. The theatre was packed. No wonder.

But I don't think anyone was disappointed. Sherlock Holmes was a great film. Not too cheesy. Not too corny. Not over the top in violence and unnecessary fight scenes.

The musical score for perfect for the setting and tone of this film.

I don't think it's a spoiler alert to say that the movie starts out with Sherlock outracing the police to the scene of a crime, to save a young lady from being an unwanted sacrifice for the evil villain Lord Blackwood. The staging of the opening appears as if Sherlock is on the run from the police and they are racing to capture him.

The villain is mysterious and appears to return from the dead to haunt Sherlock, Watson, and everyone else who caused him trouble while 'he was alive'. It becomes a bit of a magic vs. science theme, with Sherlock and Dr. Watson on the side of 1890's science.

The 1890's setting, played out with the London Bridge being built in the background and later in the foreground was excellent.

Robert Downey Jr was excellent portraying a more moody, gritty, not your Grandmother's kind of Sherlock Holmes. But more along the lines of what I thought Sir Conan Doyle intended with his character. Still amazingly intelligent, quick thinking, observant, and logical. This Holmes is also, moody, a fighter, and a bit smelly and unkempt - especially when bored and in-between cases.

Dr. Watson by Jude Law was also well done. Not the usual pastie we've grown accustomed by some who does have his own strength of convictions, is intelligent, and can stand up to Sherlock.

I was unfamiliar with the character of Irene Adler, having read one set of Sherlock Holmes stories previously in the 'Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes', but don't remember running into her character as the women who once bested Sherlock Holmes... twice! Irene was well played by Rachel McAdams.

The aforementioned villain is Lord Blackwood, played by Mark Strong. He was very believable, and had the right mixture of creepy and evil glint in his eye.

Of course, the real mastermind, Professor Moriarity.... we do not see! Not his face anyway. And of course he always gets away to test Sherlock Holmes again in future movies (sequels!).

I really enjoyed this movie.

Grade: A-

Wicked!

For a special present we went to see the Broadway production of 'Wicked' in Cleveland's theatre district, at majestic State Theatre of Playhouse Square. And 'Wicked' did not disappoint!

I had heard the music from the CD previously so I had the general gist of the storyline going in. But to see the production live was really quite a treat. Actors were great. The stages and costumes were amazing. And everything was a delightful tint of green.

At our performance, the role of Elphaba was played by the understudy Stephanie Torns. But she was perfect in the role. Very believable. And her interaction with Glinda was perfect and very natural, witty, humorous and well timed. As the scorned loner of Dear Old Shiz she portrayed a strong will in standing up for yourself in the light of adversity. She has a strength of conviction which continues throughout the story even standing up to the great Wizard of Oz himself, and his propaganda machine.

Of course my favorite songs are 'Popular' and 'Defying Gravity'. One surprise that I didn't pick up from listening to the CD was that while in Act I Elphaba sings 'I'm Not That Girl', in Act II it's Glinda sing the reprise.

A good time to mention Glinda. Played by Chandra Lee Schwartz was incredible. Such a bubble headed bleach blonde. Her portrayal was so funny and spot on. And yet, as the story progresses, Glinda grows into a mature responsible adult/witch herself. I wasn't expecting a story about the importance of friendship and yet Elphaba and Glinda despite all their differences and even their shared love for Fiyero, end as trusted friends.

I also enjoyed Randy Danson's Madame Morrible. And Ben Liebert played Boq well, but that character really turned out to be a superficial snot.

I did not care for the acting of Richard Kline as the Wizard. I don't think it had anything to do with the Wizard turning out to be a power hungry manipulator. I just didn't think he did a good job, and the performance was lack luster. Although I never cared for him much as Jack Tripper's neighbor Larry on Three's Company either.

Overall, it was a grande December Saturday afternoon, and I encourage everyone to catch 'Wicked' if you can. Even if you have to Defy Gravity!

McDoogle

Book Review: Four Came Back

An interesting little book by Martin Caiden that I found in a used paperback book store. Interesting because the book was written just before the Apollo 11 moon landing, but is about an international space station. Mr. Caiden saw the future, 30 years ago!

I added this book to my stack because it sounded so intriguing. Some alien infection/disease/bad space air(?) attacks a mission in space wiping out nearly the entire crew, only a scant four lucky survivors barely make it back alive. How many dies in the devastation in the confined quarters of the space station? 70? 100? More? After reading the book it turned out that the entire crew was only eight! So that was a little disappointing. The back cover had built it up to be a bit more dramatic.

The story starts (as all good short stories start, or so I am told... in the middle). The infection has hit the station. Deaths have occurred. Earth will not allow the crew to return with with unknown space virus which could wipeout the entire population. They are trapped in space. What will the Captian do?

Then Caiden goes into the backstory. Of the mission, the history, and the characters. Every character. And their relationships to each other. Finally after 100 pages we finally get back to a story line. I thought it was a bit much, and didn't care for THAT much backstory.

Based on the title don't think I'm giving anything away by saying that indeed, the crew does figure 'something' out, and four members of the members do successfully return to Earth.

Overall, I would have to say this one was not a classic tale.

Grade: D

McDoogle

Your mission: Sign up with the Cosmonauts to visit the current International Space Station. Look for discrepancies in the kitchen facilities. Missing sets of dinner plates, etc. File a report with NASA when you return.

New Poll for 2009: Your favorite Candy Bar!

What is your favorite Candy Bar? !!!

I compiled a list of some of my favorites (Kit Kat, Snickers, Milky Way, Zagnut, Reese's, Clark) and a few others for variety (Hershey's, Almond Joy, Baby Ruth) for a new poll question.

If you don't see your favorite on the list, like Mars Dark... leave a Comment, and I may add it, if its a popular bar that I didn't think about.

And there's STILL time to vote of your favorite color of Dragon.

So, the next time you're at that vending machine, struggling with all of those cocoa options, remember... 'Life is like a box of chocolates... do you have a creamy center.... or are you nutty goodness???'

McDoogle

Book Review: Neverwhere

An interesting story by one of my favorite authors, Neil Gaiman. I have been a fan, since my comic book reading days, and had discovered the Sandman series.

Gaiman's writing skills are awesome. The descriptions used are entertainment in and of themselves. Interesting use of and selection of words - yet not so high brow you can't understand the text, or so wordy that you get so bored you don't notice. Concise, yet cool. I realized in reading, that writing like this reveals why my scribbles fall far short.

The story of Neverwhere, reminded me somewhat (especially in think of the main characters), of the novel Gaimen writes next (Anansi Boys), but which I had already read. I found the mysterious underworld of London's unseen people living in the tunnels, sewers, and abandoned underground war zones fascinating. I found the history of London's sewer network interesting, including the 'Big Stink'.

The characters themselves I did not find all that interesting, and in general lacking in compassion. With the notable exception of Rat Girl... whose name sounds a little like Anaesthesia. In the chapter and a half she inhibited I grew quite fond of her. I liked the relationship that was growing between her and Richard (the main character), and wondered if anything could develop from it, as she explained this strange new alternate world to him. Also, she show a true vulnerability that I found refreshing, and an honesty about her fears. When she disappears - apparently not surviving a perilous bridge walk... I was devastated! And I was shocked at effect of the loss of a minor character had on me. That's pretty strong writing. However, after the loss of Rat Girl, I found none of the remaining main characters very compassionate, and didn't really care what happened to any of them.

As to the plot itself, other than the shock of losing Rat Girl, I found the story fairly predictable. Usually guessing the outcomes, and twists before they were revealed. Even the identity of the surprise villain of the piece.

Still, I would highly recommend 'Neverwhere' to anyone who enjoys reading fantasy tales.

Grade: B

McDoogle

Your Challenge: Get dirty! Worm your way into your local sewer system, and map it out. Be sure to highlight points of interest for visitors: Uneaten candy, discarded fax machines, alligators, baseball cards, etc.

A Birthday MeMe

I'm not usually the MeMe type. But my online writer friend SFGirl tagged me for the task so here goes... Here are the rules:

1. Mention the person who tagged you and create a link back to them.
2. Copy-paste the traits for all the twelve months (see below).
3. Pick your month of birth (see below).
4. Highlight the traits that apply to you. (I'm just bolding and adding comments, too)
5. Tag 12 people and let them know by visiting their blogs and leaving a comment for them (No! Everyone I know with a blog has already been tagged).
6. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve done it.

DECEMBER: Loyal (once my friend, always my friend) and generous (but I'll give you what I have). Sexy (Ummmm... you decide!). Patriotic (God Bless America!). Active in games (extremely) and interactions (what?). Impatient and hasty (sometimes... but enough to bold?). Ambitious (barely bolded - felt a little ambitious). Influential in organizations (Never!). Fun to be with (always in the group that laughs a lot. Although I have a lot of help). Loves to socialize (as I've gotten older I appreciate solializing more). Loves praises (who doesn't?). Loves attention (ditto). Loves to be loved (to a point - don't overwhelm me). Honest and trustworthy (Trust me!). Not pretending (what you see is what you got). Short tempered (but much, much improvement in this area over the years). Changing personality (What? Like Jekyll and Hyde - no, Slight changes - yes). Not egotistic (and darn proud of that! Joking....!!). Take high pride in oneself (ten years ago this would definately be bolded in big letters) . Hates restrictions (Let me run, and roam free, Baby!). Loves to joke (My #1 thing). Good sense of humor (if you laughed at the joke). Logical (Very).

I bolded many more that I thought I would and added comments to all of them. Althought I found many of my traits in all of the other months. What about you?

Your challange: Find your month, and do the same >>>>>>

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to serve others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others. Revengeful. Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in a way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks far with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Brave and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride in oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivate oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care of what others think. Emotional. Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has a lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Fine and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Brave and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If there is a will, there is a way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be alone. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

Have fun!

McDoogle

Book Review: Dead Beat

Unofficially Book #7 of the Dresden Files. Officially they've dropped the series numbers. Having read seven of the ten (currently) books of the series. I think it's important to read them in order - if possible. mainly because Jim Butcher puts a lot of character development into each novel, and not only is Harry Dresden in a completely different state of mind by book seven, so are many of the characters and plotlines. Thomas the amorous vampire has a completely different relationship with Harry in book 7 than when we meet him in book 3. It could a bit confusing to have read book seven before three. And that's just one example.

One thing I like about this edition of the adventures of Wizard Dresden (what a contrast between him and the character Rincewind from DiscWorld!), was that Butcher only wrote one major storyline for him this time around. Much more realistic. And it was one I enjoyed for the most part.

The major foes in this novel are necromancers. Twisted Wizards who enjoy bringing the dead to life to do there bidding. This time it's a search to find the powerful 'Word of Kemmler'. Kemmler was also a twisted wizard of old who used necromancy - but was the most powerful of them all -ever. Eventually the White Counsel was able to track Kemmler down and destroy him. But his hidden words live on. Dresden is blackmailed into becoming involved by his arch enemy the barely still hanging on spirit of Marva - vampiress of the Red Court.

Another interesting aspect in this story is the character development of Bob. The orange spirit of knowledge and experience who lives in a skull, reads trashy novels, and is somehow obligated to work with Harry on difficult cases. I think it shows Jim Butcher's skill as a writer that even orange gas can be developed as a character.

As a final novel note, Harry Dresden is made an unusual offer from the White Counsel. Does he accept it???

Grade: B

McDoogle

Your challenge: Figure out an incantation for warmer weather on Winter days.

A Dino might...

This is why I never roam uncharted jungles alone:



Of course, there's always the hope that the T-Rex would vomit and then I could run away!

McDoogle

Touched by The Dead Sea

Last week I had the unique experience of touching water from the Dead Sea. And I didn't even have to leave the country to do it.

A co-worker managed to smuggle out an Israeli water bottle full of Dead Sea water a few years ago and asked if I would be interested in seeing it.

"Of course!"

We went to his truck and he showed me the water bottle. The first thing I thought was, 'Why did you have to freeze the water? There's ice in the bottle.' Then I noticed that the 'ice' was at the bottom of the bottle not at the top. Some of the salt in the water had crystallized. Holding it up to the sunlight, mini opaque slivers could be seen floating in the water. When opened, the water had a murky smell. I can't imagine anyone getting confused and actually drinking this water. I poured a few drops of the water onto the meaty part of my right palm. I could immediately tell it was unlike any water I had ever felt before. I'm not sure how to describe the sensation, but I think the closest word would be 'velvety'. The sensation lasted quite a while - over an hour. Even in the finger that rubbed my palm.

It was pretty cool.

McDoogle

Book Review: Eye For Eye/Tunesmith

I bought this book (used) because the first story was written by Orson Scott Card, who's writing I've enjoyed since reading Ender's Game. It's a twin SF paperback (published by Tor as 'SF Double #27'), with a second story ' The Tunesmith' by Lloyd Biggle Jr. Both stories are short, approximately 100 pages, larger than usual fonts.

'Eye For Eye' by Scott Card was interesting at first. The strong writing of the main character drawing me in. 'Who is this kid? Why are people getting killed? Why is he on the run?' But by the end of the story I was a bit disappointed. The story seemed so clique and trite. Boy growing with unusual deadly power, that he has difficulty controlling, and everyone around him is wary of him (with good reason as people around him usually die), finally runs away, as the 'corporation' tracks him down. But who are good guys, and who are really the bad guys? It seems I've read versions of this plot several times, and it was typical, with no real surprise in the last paragraph.

'The Tunesmith' however, I really enjoyed. The irony being I never would have read the story if not for the first Card story. The includes an Introduction and Afterward to The Tunesmith, written by Card, who loved the story himself as an eager SF reader as a child.

I was intrigued to learn this story was originally written in 1957 - as it seems to fit and work so well in 2008. When this futuristic takes place, it's difficult for the musically inclined and talented to find work or express themselves. The only market is... writing ditties for (the equivalent of) TV commercials. Our main character Baque (intentionally, ironically pronounced 'Bach') is so passionate about his craft, he can barely survive. What sells best is a continual outpouring of mindless drivel and senseless jingles. Sound familiar? Unable to produce this garbage, he's forced to accept work as a Tunesmith as a local bar to entertain customers. The twist is that his music so impassioned that he makes a bit of a name for himself, so of course the 'establishment', in the form of the Performers Guild ,comes down on him. The story does have a bit of a good ending and... a bit of a sad ending.

I highly recommend 'The Tunesmith'!

McDoogle

PS. Your Challenge: Write your own special song. However it is not necessary to sing to everyone you meet!

CD Review: Styx: Big Bang Theory

No surprise to anyone who knows me, but Styx is my all time favorite band, ever since I first discovered them and the Grand Illusion album in college. Although I've never seen them in concert (or anyone else for that matter).

I found it to be a long dry spell after the Kilroy Was Here album which only contained the mega-hit, Mr. Roboto, and a lot of horrendous noise. After that 'concept album' which never should have been conceived of, the band seemed to split and in general gone in separate ways, except for a few reunion tours, like the re-opening of Chicago's famed Paradise Theatre.

But recently, the band seems to be on a small comeback. PBS (during yet another $$$ night) aired a Styx concert from nearby Blossom Music Theatre with the Cleveland Youth Orchestra and Chorus as part of their 'One With Everything' tour. It was great!

But as part of the pledge, PBS also offered as a throw-in (if you pledge $95) the Big Bang Theory CD. Hmmm. I later found out this album was a cover album of former hits by the currently group of Styx, with Lawrence Gowen replacing Dennis DeYoung. Seemed like it might be interesting, I'd keep an eye out for it.

Then a few weeks after eating Chinese buffet with a friend from the steel mill in Lorain, I stopped by the Record Exchange store in search of treasures and found Styx: Big Bang Theory. Only $5!

And it's great! Most of the songs are remakes from the 60's.

Songs on the album:
I Am The Walrus /Beatles (good)
I Can See For Miles / The Who (great)
Can't Find My Way Home / Steve Winwood (not bad)
It Don't Make Sense / Willie Dixon (could live without it)
I Don't Need No Doctor / Ray Charles (great)
One Way Out / Allman Brothers (great)
A Salty Dog / Procol Harum (interesting, catchy)
Summer In The City / Lovin Spoonfuls (great)
Manic Depression / Jimi Hendrix (excellent)
Talkin' About The Good Times /The Pretty Things (good)
Locomotive Breath /Jethro Tull (good)
Find The Cost Of Freedom / Stephen Stills (could live without)
Wishing Well / Free (average)
Blue Collar Man 2120 /Styx (different, jazzy)

As you can see by my comments, I highly recommend the album if you can find it.

Grade: A+

McDoogle

PS. Your Challenge: Record your own remake of a song from the 60's. Nothing from the Beach Boys, please!

Book Review: Interesting Times

I thought I would take another stab at reading a Terry Pratchett novel. While I've never been enamoured with the few novels I've read in the DiscWorld series, I was told by a friend that this was one of the better ones. I've much preferred the Xanth fantasy series in the past.

But I really did like this one the best. One reason was that Rincewind the Wizzard was a main character, my favorite Discworld character. Rincewind is a wizard (much like most of the wizards in Discworld) with seemingly no magical ability whatsoever except a strong innate sense of when to Run Away. Yet Rincewind is continually put in impossible dangerous situations, and always manages to 'miraculously' save himself and those around him. Two Flower the tourist swears by him.

But the characters who steal the story are the Silver Horde led by Cohen the Barbarian. Six old men, former Gladiators, who refuse to retire! Fighting, conquering, and pillaging is their life... and their art. Even wheelchair bound Hamish (a wheelchair with knives!), refuses to go out without a fight - despite being hard of hearing. Lead by Cohen the Barbarian, they go on a conquest to defeat the kingdom of Hunghung.

This novel also had some very witty lines. The one I remember best is when Rincewind is in prison with TwoFlower the tourist:
Rincewind: "Do we get fed in here?"
Two Flower: "Oh, sometimes. But it's not like the marvelous food in Ankh-Morpork."
Rincewind: "Really."
Two Flower: "I'll always remember the taste of Mr. Dibbler's sausages."
Rincewind: "People do."
Two Flower: "A once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Rincewind: "Frequently."

I started reading this book very very slowly ( a few pages every other day), but the pieces all seemed to start coming together about midway, and I started reading faster. And overall I now recommend the book.

I'm not sure what the Quantum Weather Butterfly had to do with anything. It was hinted that the butterfly was going be a critical factor to the storyline, but whatever it was, it didn't see it.

May you live in Interesting Times!

Grade: B-

McDoogle

PS. Your Challenge: Find an old CD you no longer listen and create your own Discworld. Anything from Neil Diamond would make a great one.

Struck by Hurricane Ike

About 1000 miles north of the Gulf Coast, we seldom feel the devastation and effects of the hurricanes that plague Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and the Carolina's. The remnants of the storms usually crawl up here a few days later with a smattering of warm refreshing rain from the Atlantic for a day... but Ike was different!

Arriving with winds of up 60 to 70 miles an hours, we lost power about 5:00PM Sunday. And so did much of the area. 300,000 homes were out of power come Monday morning. No electricity at work... no electricity at home... And with many of the electric company's trucks having been sent out to help assist the people in Texas... repairs were slow in coming.

Of course the people just across the street had power and lights the whole time! As always... Grrr!

Tuesday morning, power still had not been restored, So I eventually decided to check out a movie and drove down to the theater. No power there either! Despite the nearby restaurants have full power and serving tons of customers. I ended up checking out a bookstore (Barnes & Nobles). And by the time I arrived home at 4:00PM Tuesday afternoon... power had finally been restored for over an hour (almost 48 hours without electricity). Before I left five trucks from New Jersey had been roaming the streets so the out of state help must have the job!

At last!!! It's so nice to be able to turn a light on again!!

Power is also restored at work... via a generator. True power may not be restored until the end of the week.

Ike will be remembered... for a long time.

McDoogle

Your Challenge: Create a hurricane of your own. Start with a squirt gun and a big fan and work your way up to a Cat 3 storm from there. Be sure to give your hurricane a really fun name. Like Otto!