This Week’s Assignment from the League: The First Time

This week’s assignment from the League: Feels like the first time

Summer is a time of first loves and first-run movies, and sometimes those two things can be one and the same! This week’s assignment for the League of Extraordinary Bloggers…

It feels like the first time… Write about your first experience with something. 

Disneyland Vacation: The First Time!

March of this year the family and I made a trip down to Anaheim California, and spent 5 wonderful days enjoying the sights, sounds and attractions of Disneyland. It was a great vacation and I would recommend Disneyland & Disney’s California Adventure parks for every family. But this was my second trip to Disneyland.  I originally wrote a blog post 4 years ago about my first family adventure to Disneyland, thought it would be appropriate to revisit this post as it fits in with the theme of this week’s League Assignment

Easter Holidays 1994 (19 years ago...)

We never really went far for vacations as a family growing up, most summers we never went anywhere. But for Easter holidays 1994 Mom and Dad made up for it by taking us on a trip through the states to California. We were like the Griswold's from "National Lampoons Vacation", we were going to Disneyland by car.

- Mom and Dad rented a car for the long trip. They also rented a video camera from Radioshack and I became the official documentary guy of our little trip.

- Driving seemed like a good idea, that way we could see more destinations. We could visit multiple states along the way. The truth is it nearly drove us insane. Mom and Dad would argue over driving and directions. Brianna would get bored and pinch me on the arm when I wasn't looking. I would get her back and return the pinch and she would cry. Dad would get mad at me. Mom would threaten to turn the car around. We would spend up to 12 hours a day travelling by car- way too much time to spend in a confined space with bored family members.

- We often would eat at fast food chains as we drove, to save time. One thing I noticed about fast food restaurants in the states is that their food is way better than our fast food in Canada. We often ate at Burger king and it was awesome. We would order whopper meals and Mom, Dad and Bri could never finish their meals. It was too much...for them. At the time I was a 14 year old garbage disposal and I would clean up their left overs. It wasn't always easy, and I actually at times turned away their left overs. Those Yankee fast food restaurant owners don't cheap out when it comes to their food. You definitely get your money’s worth.

- Speaking of food the night we stopped in Salt Lake City we went to the nearby "Denny's" for supper. While having supper some woman crashed her car into a lamp post between the Denny's and our hotel. It was the first time I had ever seen a fresh car crash. The fire department showed up and had to use the Jaws of Life to free her, and she was taken away by ambulance.

- We spent a day at Disneyland the day after arriving in Anaheim. It really is a great experience to visit Disneyland. It really does bring out the kid in everyone. My Dad is not known for having fun unless it involves golf, hockey or some other kind of sport. When we got there he was kind of in a grumpy mood but after about a half hour of being in Disneyland he was laughing, smiling and having a great time. It really did bring out my Dad's inner child. It was really great to see my Dad let loose and have a good time.

- The lines for rides dampers the good time at Disneyland. For some rides we stood in line for up to an hour! It was worth it most of the time but it made for a long boring wait.

(Parental Advisory Warning: The following paragraph has adult content. Parental discretion is advised):
- But waiting in line for space mountain was totally worth it. Not for the ride itself but for what I saw while waiting. We're outside on the steep steps leading into Space Mountain. The line was long and the day was hot. Dad and I were standing side by side in line and Mom & Bri were behind us. In front of us was this ugly nerdy-type guy with this real smoking hot blond woman on his arm. This guy had to be loaded because there is no way a guy that ugly could get such a hot babe unless he was rich. If he was famous I didn't recognize him. Anyway I was busy staring at the ground below (because we were probably 3 stories above ground level) when the line advanced. As I looked forward realizing the line had moved up several steps the smoking hot blond (who was wearing a very mini skirt) was bent forward tying her shoe I think. Well her skirt was hiked up and she was wearing NO UNDERWEAR! I gasped in excitement and joy, staring me right in the face was a real life naked vagina, which was on the body of one of the hottest women I had ever seen. I was frozen in time, my heart pounding and thoughts racing. I couldn't believe it...it was like looking into the face of god. Dad bumped me on the shoulder and time resumed normally again. I looked at him and he had a smile on his face.
"We better move up" I think he said to me.
I don't know if he saw what I saw. Overall it was a great trip. Definitely one I will always remember.

God bless Space Mountain.

The Random Nerdness Blog is a proud member of 'The League Of Extraordinary Bloggers'. Go to www.coolandcollected.com

 to get all the addresses of the other League blog members. These blogs are also part of the league, please check out their blogs too:

www.goodwillhunting4geeks.blogspot.com

www.infinitehollywood.com

The Cavalcade Of Awesome at: http://blog.paxholley.net/

Also be sure to check out the 'Random Nerdness Podcast'!! Available to stream at www.randomnerdness.podbean.com

and download from iTunes.

Chris is also a Co-Host of the weekly 'Geek Fallout' podcast. Give that podcast a listen at www.geekfallout.podbean.com , download from iTunes and available on Stitcher!

See you in the future!!

 

Geek Fallout Episode 27: Yet Another Podfather!!!

Geek Fallout Episode 27

EPISODE 27

July 20th, 2013

We are back from our summer vacations and this week Chris and Jeff are joined by the co-host of the Atomic Geeks Podcast Mike Downs. This week we dive into the geek news for the past few weeks plus, more Star Wars talk. 

And in honor of our bad ass Motorcycle driving guest we finish off with Top 5 Bikers.

Geek Fallout is a proud member of the Atomic Geeks podcasting network.

Welcome to the wasteland.

This Weeks Assignment From The League: Robots!

This Weeks Assignment From The League Of Extraordinary Bloggers:

Danger! Danger! Danger! Pacific Rim has finally hit the theaters, and it seems like everyone is now an expert on giant monster-fighting robots. I thought it would be fun to talk about all the different mechanical wonders that have appeared in our pop culture. This week’s assignment for the League of Extraordinary Bloggers…

–

Robots!

–

As you may or may not know I am a Co-Host of the ‘Geek Fallout’ podcast.  On the show we end every episode with a ‘Top 5’ countdown where we name off our favourite top 5 for a particular subject. For this blog post I am going to name off my top 5 favourite robots (or robot pairs) in pop culture, excluding androids and cyborgs: Pure Robots ONLY. So here is my list:

5- H.E.R.B.I.E. (From the 60’s ‘Fantastic Four’ cartoon, later added to the comic book continuity). As a kid I loved watching those old cartoons and as much as I missed having the Human Torch in the cartoon I did like that little flying robot that took his place. Apparently the animators were worried about kids lighting themselves on fire so that is why Herbie is on the team. He often played jokes on Ben Grimm which made me laugh, and every time I see him make an appearance in the comic I take notice.

4- Starscream (From the 80’s ‘Transfomers’ cartoon). I always liked Starscream best out of all the Decepticons. His high pitch screetchy voice, his hunger for power, his willingness to stab Megatron in the back when it suited him, all equalled a cool villain. Also as a vehicle he was a fighter jet. If I were to be a Decepticon I would want to be a fighter jet for sure.

3- V.I.N.CENT & Maximillion (from the Disney film ‘The Black Hole’). Vincent was the good floating robot that saves the day, voiced by the late great Roddy McDowell. Maximillion was the robot that scared me as a little kid. All he did was float around, never talking, with a glowing Cyclops eye and arms with spinning grinders that could kill anyone who was unfortunate enough to face the deadly Maximillion. But as I said earlier Vincent saves the day by ‘killing’ the evil Maximillion. These two robots were my favourite characters from that underrated iconic sci-fi film.

2- Optimus Prime (From the 80’s ‘Transfomers’ cartoon). As much as Starscream was my favourite Decepticon, Optimus was my favourite Auto-bot. He was a great leader, fought for the right things, and could transform into the coolest big rig ever conceived. As a kid (and maybe as an adult) I cried when he ‘died’ during the Transformers cartoon film. Then I cheered as he was resurrected towards the end of the series. I am not a fan of the current films but I think it is cool that they brought the original Optimus voice actor, Peter Cullen, to breath life again into this iconic character.

1-    Who else could be number 1 but R2D2 & C3PO from ‘Star Wars’. It was these 2 who really peaked my interest in robots. I have had the privilege to ‘meet’ R2D2 several times at conventions and every time I turn into a kid again. Apparently for about $10,000-15,000 you can build your own movie quality replica of Artoo, that can seemingly do most things the ‘real’ Artoo can, via remote control. If I were to win the lotto I think I might create my own Artoo…

Well that is all folks. Thanks for reading. Check out these other blogs associated with League of Extraordinary Bloggers…

www.coolandcollected.com

www.goodwillhunting4geeks.blogspot.com

www.infinitehollywood.com

The Cavalcade Of Awesome at: http://blog.paxholley.net/

See you in the future…

This Weeks Assignment from The League: Auction Wish List!

This Weeks Assignment from The League:

Hake’s shopping spree (redux)

It’s been a slow summer, and the heat seems to have taken its toll on a lot of us, but this week’s League challenge should get the ol’ blogging adrenaline going again. Hake’s Americana and Collectibles has, once again, generously offered to sponsor this week’s topic for the League…

Go on a fictional shopping spree at Hake’s current auction #209 to make your collection a little more amazing.

Hake’s has given us permission to reuse their photos and descriptions in our responses to this week’s League challenge, just be sure to link back to their auction. One blog entry will be selected to receive $100 credit to spend at Hake’s!

Well this is going to be a fun assignment. I went to the auction website and was blown away by some of the items up for grabs. Some of the items are amazing, but the bids are a little too high for me, so for my selection that is featured below I chose items at low bidding right now. I tried to pick a variety of different items, unique and not related in any way. I’m a geek/nerd with many tastes. I’m a fan of a variety of different genres, whether it is ‘Star Trek’, Comic Books or The king of Rock & Roll, my interests are varied and many.

 My 5 selections are all different, unique and absolutely awesome. I’ll break each item down then explain why I chose it. Here we go….

1-    "DICK TRACY" METAL LUNCHBOX WITH THERMOS.

Auction Description: Embossed metal by Aladdin. ©1967 Chicago Tribune. Box features Dick Tracy and Sam Catchem in hovering "Police" vehicles chasing down bank robbers on front panel. Back panel features group scene showing Dick Tracy w/Tess Trueheart, Dick Tracy Junior w/Moon Maid and Honeymoon, B.O Plenty and Gravel Gertie w/Sparkle Plenty, others. Band shows crime-sighting techniques and equipment and has partial Aladdin sticker on right side. Box has moderate edge/rim wear, w/some areas of bare metal showing. A few raised areas show small areas of bare metal. 1.5" and 2.75" hairline scratches on front panel. Box retains a bright and glossy appearance and is Fine overall. Comes w/6.5" tall metal thermos w/plastic cap. Thermos features differing illustration, showing group watching Junior, Moon Maid and Honeymoon on "Luna TV." Some loose rust particles within, but thermos displays Exc. (G - $100 to $200)

I was a huge fan of the 1990 ‘Dick Tracy’ film. I bought all the action figures and had a blast playing them along side my TMNT action figures. But anyway I developed an appreciation for the Dick Tracy character; in particular I started watching the old cartoon and my Mom bought me a of collected Dick Tracy newspaper cartoon strips. I loved that book and still have it on my book shelf to this day. Anyway the long and short of it is I am a fan of classic ‘Dick Tracy’, and having this classic lunch box and thermos on my shelf would look so freakin awesome on my shelf.

2-    "STAR TREK" SIGNED PHOTO LOT

Auction Description: Lot of four photos signed by main stars or prominent guest stars on the classic 1968-1969 NBC sci-fi TV series. 3.5x5.25" screen-capture snapshot shows DeForest Kelley (1920-1999) as McCoy and photo has been signed in black felt tip pen. Exc. 8.25x10.25" glossy bw photo shows James Doohan (1920-2005) as Scotty and photo has been signed in black felt tip pen. Photo has some lt. handling wear but is o/w Exc. 8x10" glossy bw photo shows Mark Lenard (1924-1996) as Spock's father Sarek and photo has been signed in blue felt tip pen "To Vern, My Best, Mark Lenard." Exc. Glossy 8x10" photo features William Campbell as Trelane from the classic "Star Trek" episode "The Squire Of Gothos." Signed in black felt tip pen "To Vern, Tally Ho! William Campbell." Exc. Comes with Hake's COA and JSA COAs. (G - $100 to $200)

I am a huge Star Trek fan. In 1994 I met actor James Doohan at a Trek Con in Edmonton and I got his autograph. He was an amazing man a Canadian legend, but unfortunately he is no longer with us. And also unfortunate is the fact I lost my James Doohan autographed picture, that I got signed when I met him, in one of the many moves I have made over the past decade. I never got to meet the other actors listed in this photo lot, but they all seemed like good people and I would love to have their autographs, and I would love to replace my lost James Doohan autograph.

3-     "CAPTAIN MARVEL" PREMIUM PORTRAIT PICTURE VARIETY SIGNED BY C.C. BECK.

Auction Description: 7x10" on stiff glossy paper. c. 1941. Great action pose w/facsimile signature "Best Wishes - Your Pal, Captain Marvel." Below this Beck, perhaps Captain Marvel's best-known artist has signed his name in blue felt tip pen. Text on bottom margin reads "Captain Marvel Appears Monthly In Whiz Comics." Thin top margin as originally printed, not trimmed. Scattered lt. margin wear, but picture remains bright and clean. VF. The only example of the picture we have ever seen signed by Beck. A superb vintage item to have signed by Captain Marvel's premier artist. From the Robert M. Overstreet Collection and comes with Hake's COA. (G - $100 to $200)

Captain Marvel (Shazam) is a character I have a lot of affection for. I have come to learn a lot about the history of this character and I really think if certain things hadn’t happened in history that directly affected the character, he would have been bigger than ‘Superman’. I like what Geoff Johns has done to reintroduce the character and the ‘Marvel family’ into the DC ‘New 52’ as a back-up story in the Justice League title, but I would like the original ‘Captain Marvel’ and his family of characters to have their own book. I never watched the ‘Captain Marvel’ serials from the past, but I have seen clips and it looks awesome for the time. I just think this portrait picture would be a cool artefact to have and framed in my living room.

4-   “ELVIS PRESLEY (MR. DYNAMITE) SOUVENIR PHOTO ALBUM” VARIETY WITH DISCOGRAPHY

Auction Description: 1956. Subtitled “Nation’s Only Atomic Powered Singer”. 8-3/8x10-7/8” w/eight pages published by “Elvis Presley’s Advertising and Promotional Department”. Front cover photo is same one used on Elvis’ first album. Photos throughout include performing, signing autographs, parents at home. Back cover has RCA record list. Light handling creases, front cover has faint moisture marks but still glossy and bright. Overall VG/Fine. Limited distribution, mainly sold at personal appearances. Historic, the first magazine devoted solely to Elvis. (H - $200 to $400)

I am a huge fan of the King, and I think this discography and photo album would be amazing to have. This summer I will be volunteering at the ‘Blue Suede’ festival in Busby, Alberta. It’s a great festival where Elvis impersonators come out perform for hundreds of Elvis fans. I am looking forward to attending and volunteering my time at the festival this year. The festival runs August 24 & 25^th in Busby. Check it out at www.bluesuedemusicfestival.com

5-   “JOHN ROMITA SKETCH BOOK” WITH PETER PARKER/SPIDER-MAN SPECIALTY ORIGINAL ART

Auction Description: 6-7/8x10.5” hardcover w/dust wrapper ©2002 John Romita. Published by Vanguard. 112 b/w extensively illustrated pages and introduction by Stan Lee. Inside front cover has original pencil drawing w/classic double face image of Peter Parker and Spider-Man. Art is signed “To Charlie + Joan San Diego July 23, 2006 Jazzy John Romita”. Exc. Romita began work on Spider-man w/issue #39 Aug. 1966. Over the years he would draw 50+ covers and stories for 46 issues. Art was commissioned in person from the artist. From the Charlie Roberts Collection. (H - $200 to $400)

Again, I am a big comic book fan and I have a definite appreciation for the artists that helped define the characters I love. John Romita did some incredible work on Spider-Man and this sketch book would be amazing to read and have as part of my collection

That was fun. Be sure to check out the auction at: www.hakes.com

And check out some other blogs that are part of the league, including:

www.blog.paxholley.net

www.coolandcollected.com

www.goodwillhunting4geeks.blogspot.com

www.infinitehollywood.com

See you in the future!

"DICK TRACY" METAL LUNCHBOX WITH THERMOS.

  "STAR TREK" SIGNED PHOTO LOT

“ELVIS PRESLEY (MR. DYNAMITE) SOUVENIR PHOTO ALBUM” VARIETY WITH DISCOGRAPHY

"CAPTAIN MARVEL" PREMIUM PORTRAIT PICTURE VARIETY SIGNED BY C.C. BECK.

“JOHN ROMITA SKETCH BOOK” WITH PETER PARKER/SPIDER-MAN SPECIALTY ORIGINAL ART

The Atomic Geeks Podcast Network Summer 2013 Crossover

Soon the cast and crew of 'The Bloke Show' will be taking over the 'Geek Fallout' podcast, and podcasters from both Geek Fallout and Random Nerdness will be taking over 'The Bloke Show'. They will be swapping shows for an episode the week of July 22. Stay tuned for furthur updates....

RN Interviews: Melissa Brade

Hello fellow blog reader and or podcast listener, this is Chris Lockhart with yet another blog entry, so thank you for taking the time to read this. Today I am doing a blog interview with Melissa Brade, a woman whom I went to school with a few years ago. Now Melissa is a mother, wife, Political Activist and now aspiring model. In the last few months Melissa has been posting some of her modeling shots on Facebook and I believe she definitely has a future career in modeling. So I asked Melissa if she would be up for an interview on the blog and she so nicely agreed.

- Thanks for agreeing to do this blog interview Melissa. First off could you tell our readers who you are and what interested you in modeling and do you view modeling as your dream career?

Not exactly. I don't consider it a career option, its more for fun and personal gratification at this stage in my life.
Most of my days are pretty high stress and demanding so it’s a lot of fun to take the occasional Promotional gig or Photo shoot and enjoy a day doing something just for me. Previewing the photos after is always exciting; I enjoy the photographer’s creative take on it. A person usually has a definition or perception of their own beauty, so I find it especially cool to see a viewpoint from another perspective.
I originally got involved through my bartending which led to offers for Promotional Modeling jobs, it’s only been this past year I've started experimenting with photo shoots and creating a portfolio.

- From October 2009 to September 2010, you were had acting as Leader of the Canadian Action Party, and you ran as a candidate in the 2011 Federal Election in the Yellowhead riding. Are you still active in politics and if so what are your political ambitions?

At this time I'm not actively involved. I needed a break. Promoting an alternative Party is a lot of work with nil reward. Although the party had amazing, intelligent, policies and solutions, people in Christian Conservative Alberta are hesitant to consider anything that doesn't come with a traditional label. I have been offered a Candidacy with a couple of the mainstream parties and may consider that an option at a later date.

- What are some of your other areas of interest? What are you passionate about?

Its seems like I get passionate about things in waves and most of my passions involve health, the future and my children's security.
Healthy eating is a big passion as without good health we have nothing. I find GMOs of great concern and work hard to select clean food when I shop. My coworkers find my passion/obsession with avoiding artificial sweeteners can be rather irritating as I read labels obsessively and give out little lectures on the risks of aspartame.

- Now this is a blog where we generally discuss geeky/nerdy things. And I know you are a fan of the TV series ‘Game Of Thrones’. What are your thoughts on this show, in particular the current season?

Gawsh! Where to begin? I was hooked episode one. I ranted about it a bit on FB and a pal told me it was a book series! Hallelujah!!
I blazed through it in a week. The plot and storyline is amazing. The combo of political intrigue, gory battle and sexy mystery would keep any literate person hooked!
Tyrion is my favourite character...when in doubt ask yourself "what would Tyrion do?"
I love the way the books are written from several characters perspectives instead of traditional chapters. It keeps a person on the edge of your seat to know at any time one of your favourite characters could have their storyline axed!
Dany losing Kahl Drogo and nursing the dragons after his funeral pyre was stunning to read and almost as good to watch!!
This season I was most moved by Kaitlyns plea for mercy as Rob was betrayed at the Red Wedding.
I think people will be extra shocked to see where that spins off! Oh yes...Kaitlyns story isn't over yet.
I feel a twinge of urgency when I think of book 6. George R R Martin is in my thoughts daily. I pray for his good health (write George, write like the wind, and eat your veggies)
I look forward to being entertained with at least another 5 books in the series. Fingers crossed!

- Are you interested in anything else that would be considered geeky?
Well asides from being a book worm, analytical, and a government dissident, I'm not too geeky!
Maybe painting and art. I do folksy painting with the afro dude on PBS (Ross)...and maybe gardening would be a bit geeky too.
I also enjoy gemology and crystal therapy. Its intriguing to think beautiful gems have healing values or can impart certain characteristics to the wearer.

- What kind of books do you like to read? What movies do you watch?
I like to read historical romance or fantasy if I'm reading for fun.
I’ll read pretty much anything to learn though. If there's something I'd like to know more about ill read reports, essays, thesis, whatever it takes till my questions are answered. I also very much enjoy books on psychology, herbology and self-help.
I don't watch many movies or TV. I'll rent a movie or go to the theatre with the family for fun every few months but have a hard time remembering the plot months later.
I’d have to say my favourites would be comedies. This year I shot pop out of my nose laughing so hard watching 21 Jump Street in the theatre.
I hate horror films and avoid them. I always cover my eyes at the blood and gore.

- Random Question: What movie character do you think you are?

Absolutely Ayla off Clan of the Cave Bear, or maybe even Poison Ivy some days.

- We may have some female readers reading this and seeing your pictures, and I’m sure they are going to want to know about your beauty regimen: How do you keep your hair and skin healthy?

I don't do a lot actually. Less is more. I wash my face and body with Ivory soap and find it keeps my complexion nice as opposed to some of the pricier body/face washes.
I like to use Pur Minerals and Smashbox makeup for a daily natural look, just some powder, liner and mascara with a natural toned shadow.
For my hair keeping the length is most important. I found I couldn't grow it as long when I colored it so quit coloring a few years ago and let it grow out natural.
I have a routine where I'll wash my hair day one and blowdry a flat/sleek look for the day. The next day is usually a ponytail or up do, and the third day is curls because hair holds a nice curl better when it’s a bit dirty. Then wash again and start all over!
I like John Frieda "go blonde" Shampoo and Conditioner.
One thing I can't live without is tea tree oil. Any little blemish is curable overnight with a little dab of tea tree oil.
I don't use any moisturizers as my skin is sensitive to the waxes and chemicals. I moisturize with olive oil or coconut oil. I keep a big jar of either right on the bathroom counter. It probably looks odd to visitors?

- Every girl has a special “can’t live without this" staple in her closet, what’s yours?

My favourite signature item is my 3 season cheetah coat (no cheetahs were harmed in its production)
Its gorgeous!! No one has one like it. It’s a soft furry dress style long jacket with 3/4 length sleeves and a tied waist and a bright teal silk liner.
It’s great for business, evenings on the town or hugging... It’s so soft and furry it makes me irresistible for random hugs.

- As far as fashion goes who’s on your favourite designers list?

Surprisingly I don't have a favourite designer and don't know a lot about 'high' fashion.
Some of my favourite items are thrift shop finds.
I have some Guess and Franco Sarto shoes and purses that get a lot of wear, but nothing I'm really fanatical about.
For casual wear I really like Bench. Their jackets are very functional and sexy.

- Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to models trying to establish themselves?

Don't be afraid to ask questions from others in the business.
Most are very nice and will tell you who to avoid and who can be trusted.
Get referrals for anyone you've been approached by, ask for their references and to see their portfolios.
There are a lot of creeps out there. The legitimate people will have no problems answering your questions, showing you their references and being respectful of your boundaries.

Thanks Melissa for taking the time to answer my questions. Is there anything you would wish to plug like a website, group, etc?

So many!!
All my political research started with 9/11 and the wars in the middle east so I have to plug
Architects and Engineers for 911truth
www.ae911truth.org
And Pilots for 911truth
www.pilotsfor911truth.org
Along with my favorite website for all things analytical
www.globalresearch.ca
And for fun and sexy pics I'm also a contender in the MissBodyRock model search this summer and would appreciate the votes on my page at
http://www.bodyrocktour.com/melissa-b.html
Thank you so Chris for the opportunity to be featured on your blog! Its been fun!!