Memoirs of a Rabid HotDog

Merry merry

2010-12-16T12:55:00.002-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Quote I Like

2010-09-26T08:42:00.002-05:00

"Experience is a brutal teacher. But you learn -- my God, do you learn." C.S. Lewis

People

2010-09-03T16:05:00.002-05:00

People surprise you....the ones you thought were your closest friends can turn out to be nothing more than along for the proverbial ride. Hoping like the pilot fish for a handout, to scrape up the leftovers that spill over on your good fortune, but when you need them or when danger shows, they are hiding behind you, cowering...or have found another bigger better fish to replace you.

There are the ones that only call when they need your help or have a free minute to talk...the ones that give very little for the person you are and more for the idea that you're too gullible to say no. It could be that you're too afraid to let go of them, afraid that the only reason they are your friend is because you're always there. Problem is...they won't be there for you when you need them and in reality, you are nothing more than a doormat to wipe their feet on as they walk all over your life.

Lastly, there are my favorite....family...not friends. Ones that stick with you no matter what...no matter how many times you have gone into the gutter, how much you reek of stupidity, or how many times you have forgotten what really matters, and walked out of their life for something better. They are the ones who laugh at your jokes in public only later to tell you they suck, let your cry on their shoulder about how your favorite shirt is nothing more than tatters and swear never to tell anyone that you did, and they are most importantly, the ones that no matter what...you can go to them without fear of being turned away. They do not judge...they do not make light of what you cry over, and they remind you that you are more than you ever thought possible. Mostly, these are the people you should never let go because one day, you'll realize as you look back on your life, they were there through all of it.

-dedicated to the friends that made my life worth living- Just because I wrote this does not mean you all are off the hook for anything done to me in the past. I will get you, my pretties, and your little white lies too. ;)

Good Quote

2010-08-05T09:07:00.002-05:00

'Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin to slit throats.' H. L. Mencken

An Old Favorite of Mine

2010-08-02T20:34:00.002-05:00

FALLEN

“You let go and I fall

Into the rocks below, the rocks

Only meant for me…

My wings fail to save me as they open to embrace the sharp edges as I feel each bone break and shatter…

The Jagged stones pierce through my flesh, muscles tear, and blood flows like a river through the mountains of regret and abandonment.

My eyes cloud over, but fall no tears, the pain is just too much, reminding me I am not dead, only battered, bruised, and torn…

Feathers now stained red cease to flutter, cease to cushion my fall and I see my heart beating softly upon the rock that ripped through my chest…

My soul, once shown through the eyes of an angel, now waits for death to claim it, but even that would be far too easy for my life to grant me…

Instead, I lay in a pool of crimson regret and broken wings that no one can mend…agony reminding me I am still alive, still breathing, though, each intake I beg the sky, the rocks, and the dark to consume me and let me die so my suffering will end… and softly, deliberately, a voice as harsh and as hard as my shallow grave calls over the stillness as the fire and passion my soul once knew, drips out with my blood…each word echoes as I close my eyes and taste of fear and hate…

YOU WERE BETTER OFF ALONE.

RESURRECTION

“I lay in a pool of my own blood, no tears come to join it, but pain consumes my every thought and again I hear that harsh hard voice calling and I muttered in a breath barely heard, “Alone is for those who have no choice.”

With strength beyond my wildest dreams I stand taking my heart into my hand…I place it back within my chest and shake my fist at the dark

My legs shift under me covered in blood, but I have only one desire now. Fueled by thoughts, spurred by fire, my wings hang useless, broken and shattered, but even now, I feel the new ones grow, not white, but scarlet velvet show…Beautiful, strong, they raise above me, covering my bruises and sheltering my battered form…My soul, alive cries to the sky, screaming for

freedom, not from pain, but from you…”

Writer

2010-07-27T08:58:00.002-05:00

I am a writer....we create rather than sleep, rather than eat...we are a dying breed that is consumed with sharing our stories to anyone that will listen...even if it includes the family dog.

I am a writer...my world is my own, created by me, through me and is part of me. When a character cries, I feel it. When one laughs, I smile. When one dies, a little of me does too.

I am a writer. I argue with voices in my head. The ones who I created and those that created themselves...If you're not one of us, you wouldn't understand.

I am a writer. Words are in my blood. They flow down my hands into my fingers and then to the keys of my keyboard. If I didn't write them, they would drive me crazy.

I am a writer. I do not stop and when I try, the voices in my head drive me on. Creating, Molding, Melding....

I am a writer....

Quote of the day

2010-05-26T21:13:00.003-05:00

When you are describing,
A shape, or sound, or tint;
Don't state the matter plainly,
But put it in a hint;
And learn to look at all things,
With a sort of mental squint.
~Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (Lewis Carroll)

Revenge

2010-05-23T19:27:00.002-05:00

Revenge...the classic piss on your neighbor game that seems to fuel even the most innocent human heart. We start out early, kids learn that if someone hits you, then you damn well strike them back only harder. As we age, we imagine more sinster ways of going about it, someone hits you and you steal their spouse or sue them for all their worth. Sadly, that doesn't always pan out. Soon, though you are in a battle of the wits or a pissing contest as the lower class would call it, see who can do what to whom and eventually win the war. Unfortunately, I have discovered throughout my existance, that when you piss on your neighbor, you also get some on yourself.

Wolves vs Bats

2010-05-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

So, with the return of my computer and the fact my Muse has decided I'm her personal slave again, I thought I would post a blog before returning to her snarling side. Many people have posed the question 'Which is better....Werewolves or Vampires?'

Now, I am a wolf girl myself...long before the additions of Twilight and other urban fantasies (though I know that technically they are not werewolves in Stephenie's creation). Animal magnetism and the raw primal need of hunting and blood have always been more attractive than the seduction and secretiveness of the vampire. Not that I don't like vamps, mind you. They have their place in some of my favorite fiction such as Jeri Smith-Ready's books and the wonderful Noble Blood series.

The debate though, is rather pointless since just like men or women for that matter, we all have our preferences. As for who would win in a battle, I suppose like everything it would depend on who had their head in the game, who had the most to lose, and what advantages they had over each other. Which one is best is entirely up to you!

Still, I think we can all agree on this. We hope they continue to hunt our heart, bite our necks, and remind us a little more of how much we love it when we are bitten..... :)

There is a Light at the End of the Tunnel....

2010-04-27T14:07:00.001-05:00

There is hope for all of us. In God, in people, and even in just everyday life. Look at every tree that loses its leaves in the winter...imagine losing your clothes during the coldest part of the year only to gain them back when it starts getting warm outside. Or there's the swam babies...ugly, thin little things that turn into something that people associate with beauty. Hope is in everything we see, and we all need to embrace it. SO...there is a Light at the End of the Tunnel....

Just make sure it's not a freight train bound for hell....

2009-12-23T17:53:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Worry

2009-12-18T16:13:00.000-06:00

I have learned this month that all worry does is make you either eat or not eat, ruins your complexion, gives you massive headaches, kills good night sleep, and does absolutely nothing to your problems. They are still there and you just get to feel miserable in them. Give them over to God and let Him be in control. After all, we have enough to do this time of year! Merry worry free Christmas!!!

A Disk Drive to Remember

2009-12-12T10:16:00.001-06:00

Well, my laptop of two and half years decided a few days ago to kill its hard drive. I am not sure if it will be able to be recovered, but thankfully, I backed up the important stuff on a mini drive...eg. my writings. I still hope most of it can be recovered since all my images and a few little things I want are still on there.

For now I have borrowed my mother's slower, older laptop and though it does do what's needed, I miss the quickness of mine as well as the wider keyboard. This one is rather small, but I am managing. Still, I thank God that I am still online and still free to bug you all with my little rantings. Aren't you happy?! ;)

So...here's to a blessed holiday and a wonderful new year....slow, little computer and all...

You must be a writer....

2009-12-06T11:47:00.000-06:00

You can't write because you are mad at the character you are currently writing....and you argue with said character even more than people in real life. (not that I have EVER done that) ;P

I Can Do It On My Own

2009-11-30T13:56:00.000-06:00

I am not published, but have written some fanfics and short stories...poems that are on certain sites on the web. I have learned many things about writing...some the easy way and others...not so much.

For those writers out there who believe that you can do it all one your own....you are very wrong. I don't mean that you have to have a co-author (I write without one as well)...to find one as good as mine is to me would be a long stretch (not that there isn't ones out there) what I mean is someone who can be your eyes...catch things that you miss, right wrongs that might not be physically possible, tell you if your timeline isn't just a bit off, and just be that voice of reason that tells you if your character might be a little too much of a drama queen or if the words you are using aren't up to par.

We all have a different way of writing. Some of us like just saying it is hot...others need twenty five words before we get our point across...but we all need a voice of reason. So...don't do it on your own...get a beta reader or just a friend....someone that loves your work as much as you do...and who you don't mind tearing into said work, being honest, and realizing that they are doing it to better you as a writer.....trust me, it's worth it. Laters, Gators...

Quote to think on.....

2009-11-26T21:47:00.000-06:00

"Never confuse trust with convenience." Me

There is a reason...

2009-11-25T12:15:00.001-06:00

As a writer, I have learned that not just everyone should look at your search history. With things like major arteries, collapsible sniper rifles, and kinds of explosives, one could really wonder what exactly might be going on. Of course, this is in light of the three prior items, which trust me isn't much better.

In reality, one might think I was going to war or then there are the other like blood letting, assassination methods, and the ever popular Jack the Ripper legend, where the ideas of me being a psychotic killer could come to mind. What's funny is that my husband takes it all with a grain of salt knowing that it's not the ranting of an insane woman out to seek revenge on a cruel world or a blood crazed freak in need of another gory fix. It is just me doing what I do best. Search out the web to better my stories and hope to God no one thinks I am anything or everything I have said above.

I am a writer....I promise...no matter what that little devil on my shoulder says to you....don't believe anything he tells you...I know I don't. (wink)

Nothing is true....

2009-11-22T10:25:00.001-06:00

"...Everything is permitted."

For any of you familiar with that phrase, you probably know what this post is about. A wonderful series of video games known as Assassin's Creed, where the future meets the past in an array of blood and glory all at the point of a handsome hooded man and his hidden blade. This is what my diet has been for the last few days and it has become quite apparent in my dreams.

Picture if you will a mysterious man in a white robe who can kill someone before they even realize he is there. He's a champion of the people even though he doesn't chose to be and can leap from high towers to land in a stack of hay all around the cry of a bird of prey. His voice is sultry and rough and his demeanor worthy of dangerous, but all hidden deep in unbridled sex appeal.

Someone asked if my dreams had been good and I have to say yes, mixing the fighting assassin's that already plague my mind, her long red hair falling around her shoulder as Altair pulls him to her in a hidden and forbidden embrace. Or as they dance, lights of fires catching blades as the two do battle neither able to kill each other, but betraying their own people to remain together.

And as the game winds down and I realize that this passage soon will be at an end, I have hope that the next will continue to spur these dreams and images as I allow my fingers to write them down and play in a word where hooded men run on rooftops and take leaps of faith into my heart....

Quote to live by....

2009-11-20T16:59:00.000-06:00

"Sometimes the best way to deal with reality.....is to create your own."

Sleep Deprived Writings

2009-11-19T10:32:00.000-06:00

Caution, this is so not something one should do....especially when writing with a co author.

As much as I love my Muse, (see below post) I have come to find that not enough sleep makes a good idea become a bad idea in five seconds flat. And my fingers tend to go on auto pilot, which can lead to all kind of screwy debauchery. Especially half thoughts and bad choices in words. Thankfully, when writing, nothing is set in stone and the mistakes of a bad night are easily rectified by a couple clackings of the keyboard and the excessive use of the delete button.

Still, I offer this to a certain person out there who has to put with me and sometimes I am sure would like to brandish his shotgun my way. Thanks for not blowing my head off with Mathilda. You know who you are.....

An a'MUSE'ing complaint

2009-11-18T19:24:00.000-06:00

A Muse...something or someone that encourages or inspires someone to write, also the name for which most writer's coin their creative spark. All in all, the Muse is an important part of a writer's lifestyle.

So here is where the problem arises. Mine won't shut up. I love her to death, but when it comes to the need for sleep, she continues to talk through the night telling me all the other things i could be doing. One of her biggest flaws (or mine) is I flitter to several different ideas and never quite stay on one. Especially when she is in overdrive.

It's not that I don't like her or wish her to be gone, but a little slower would be nice. Please....and sleep...oh, sleep is a powerful thing and I still devote half the night to her. LOL!

Just a Babble

2009-11-12T18:53:00.001-06:00

Figured I best post something since well, I was one...bored, that happens in my life from time to time especially when I'm tired and coughing and my kids are busy watching something while my hubby is out workin' his muscles....and two, I feel like typing about nothing in particular, a feat that if you ask my co author from Canada, he'll tell you that is one thing I am excel at...that and annoying him with strange questions that come from maybe just a wee bit too much sugar and not a whole helluva a lot of sleep. The latter though I assure you is so not my fault.

I had every intention to go to be early, but my blasted cough kept me up until I finally downed enough drugs to sedate a Brahma bull. Midnight and my body decided to go to sleep. For all of three minutes....before I heard....'Momma, it's Carol...your daughter...it's your daughter.' My stupid neighbor's across the street...their drunk daughter came home screaming at the top of her lungs, crying like she was going to die if her mother didn't open the door. Is it wrong of me to have wanted to slam her headfirst into the brick of her mother's house. Finally, after about fifteen minutes of this, the mother opened the door (God, did I feel sorry for her) and let the whining brat inside. And this girl is older than me...I bet at least in her forties. She has been carted to the hospital for drug overdose like five times since she's been living with her mom. That was in July, people.

Anyway, after that, the lull of my hubby's breathing and the wind blowing through what's left of the leaves on my tree, my body decided it was now ready to sleep. Well, at least for another few hours, until that blasted cough woke me up. Here's hoping my co author don't want to kill me tonight. We write until two, but I do have a whole two liter of Pepsi. More sugar and caffeine should drive my mind crazy.....and my partner even more so.....Laters, Gators....

2009-11-10T18:55:00.001-06:00

http://www.suvudu.com/freelibrary/

Has Kiss of Shadows by Laurell K. Hamilton for a free downloadable ebook. Definitely worth checking out ya'll.

Quote for you to think on....

2009-11-09T13:52:00.000-06:00

Judge not, for do we not all have dark

secrets we would rather leave buried in graveyards of denial?!

2009-11-07T23:14:00.000-06:00

and they say night is meant for the things that go bump

and the things that scare and horrify,

but i like the night and the dark and the things that go bump

so I pray tell which am I?

Why I Write

2009-11-06T09:52:00.001-06:00

Wow! What a question to be asked at seven in the morning, but this was what was sent by a friend to my email. She is doing a little survey among a few of us that are aspiring authors...I believe that if you write anything that is yours and yours alone, published or not, you're a writer. Anyway, here goes my answer and if you don't follow it, is okay. My mind is kind of like those 3D pictures that were popular a million years ago, where you had to relax your eyes to see the image...well, in my mind's case, most of the time you have to be either completely drunk or nuts to understand it...most of my friends will tell you both helps tons.

Why I write...in the seventh grade, my mind began to wander down paths and into worlds that it ought not to when trying to learn math and science. I began creating characters in my mind since the rest of my imagination had been bottled up by moving to a new city and trying like hell to fit in. Gators, this girl couldn't fit into a mental ward, but try as I might, nothing seemed to work to stifle the caged beast from slipping out and making me miss the lessons my teachers were teaching.

Finally, one of the teachers I will always remember forever...Mrs. Moore, my seventh grade English teacher handed me a notebook and said three words that have forever changed my life..."WRITE IT DOWN." Never has better words been spoken to this little girl, who could never really find her place in the world to call her own. So, I made a world of my own.

With the quickness of my pen, I began to spin the webs of creativity, be it a poem about death, coffee, or just walking in a forest...to a full blown story about a heroine in search of her prince or crazed man with a shotgun, whichever the case may be. Notebooks filled with ideas that overtook me and flowed from my mind to my fingers like water from a faucet.

It has been more than fifteen years since that day, the day my teacher released the caged beast out on to paper and now, on to screen with the advancement of computers and Word...and the fact I can afford a laptop. Still, the mind continues its rants and though I have found quite a nice place to remain for a season or two, my place will always be in the stories I write. They are not only my blood...they are my soul bore out upon the sheets that soon will be tossed by the winds of change.

Why do I write you ask...well, the easiest way I can explain is...I write because I must. To silence the voices in my head, to free my imagination from the cage of reality, to search for that one thing that makes me...me. I write, my friends, because in writing, I feel complete. I found my place to belong, even if I had to create it to find it.

Sanctuary Season 2

2009-10-05T20:37:00.001-05:00

Don't forget to set your DVR or just tune in to the new season of Sanctuary on the SyFy channel this Friday. Should be an awesome season!!

'the forgotten'

2009-09-24T08:42:00.001-05:00

Wow...just wow! There aren't many series that grab me on the first episode and then leave me breathless at the end. 'the forgotten' is just such a show. Starring veteran actor Christian Slater as ex cop and now leader of the Forgotten Network for the Mideast, he leads a group of volunteers that take over where the cops leave off...finding the names of the unknown murders that happen and giving the families closure as well as the victims their names back.

With a great set of characters from a artist that gets community service for vandalism to a phone company employee that might be just a little too overzealous, the history of their lives is just as interesting as the cases themselves, but does no way take from the case at hand. Even Slater's character Alex has a reason for his obsession with the 'job' as his eight year old daughter has been kidnapped and missing for the last eight years.

Again, this is the first episode and as always I will wait to pass the most judgement until then. Still this is definitely one to check out, especially if you already watch the 'Dancing With the Stars' that run before. I hope to see it last and develop into a great series.

'the forgotten' airs Tuesdays on ABC at 10e/9c.

Watch the pilot online at http://abc.go.com/watch/the-forgotten/235186/235271/pilot

New NCIS

2009-09-23T13:58:00.000-05:00

Everyone is familiar with NCIS and its crime solving crew that consists of Gibbs, Abby, and Ducky...to name a few. It's a show that brought the criminal solving to the military level, liken to JAG, but with a bit more of the gore we are use to seeing with the CSI's. The chemistry between characters is something that is just a wonder to behold and makes the show incredible to watch. This season I am sure will be no exception.

After the season premiere though last night, NCIS fans were introduced to a new series with a new crew and a new location, NCIS Los Angeles. Starring screen veterans Chris O'Donnell and LL Cool J, the pilot opened with a scene of G. Callen (O'Donnell) staring out into the ocean thinking on a flashback of him being shot next to his partner, Sam Hanna (Cool J). You find out later that he is coming back from a long leave, in which he needed to heal.

Their new headquarters reminded me of Angel's hotel from Whedon's hit series by the same name and I was surprised as well as pleased to see veteran actress Linda Hunt playing the support manager. An especially cute moment was when she asked G what the letter stood for. In which, Callen replies that 'they' being his foster home never told him.

As far as the series goes, I have only seen one episode and as anyone who is a regular reader knows, I don't pass too much judgement until I've seen a couple. My biggest thing with the new NCIS is it lacks the chemistry of the first. I was hooked by episode one and fell in love with the characters almost immediately. Still, though, as a watcher of all the CSI's, NY was the hardest for me to get into, but after awhile, I did finally grow to really like it.

Truthfully, Los Angeles will remain on my DVR and I will try again, seeing as they develop the characters as well as the story line that envelopes them. For you that didn't catch the pilot....go to http://www.cbs.com/primetime/ncis_los_angeles/?ttag=mktg;Fall09Google and watch it now.

NCIS Los Angeles airs on CBS on Tues @ 9e/8c.

Castle Castle Castle

2009-09-21T14:34:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight is the night that season two of Castle begins and am excited beyond measure. Maybe it's the fact I get to see the always sexy Nathan strutting his stuff on screen or that my brain gets a chance to solve a great murder mystery. Either way, I am hoping that it is as good as it was when it left off. Sitting pretty in its safe spot after Dancing With the Stars, I hope anyone that hasn't taken a bite will stay after and see what you are missing. Enjoy!! Castle airs tonight on ABC @ 10 east/ 7 west.

Season 2 trailer @ http://abc.go.com/shows/castle

Suvudu Free Library

2009-07-29T21:26:00.000-05:00

http://www.suvudu.com/freelibrary/

For those who love ebooks for free...this is a great place to get sci fi and fantasy ebooks. Once a month, they post a few for download. Go and enjoy what they have posted.

Wicked The Musical

2009-07-25T10:17:00.000-05:00

My sister and I had the pleasure to attend Wicked The Musical at the Tulsa PAC last Tuesday and I just have to say it was an experience that I will remember forever. Watch the trailer here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0m6sclZkH0

Coraline

2009-07-24T12:37:00.000-05:00

Ahhh...the beauty of stop-motion animation...something that has kind of fell along the wayside for the ease of a computer animation (not trying to take the hard work out of that). I just miss the hand drawn and the claymation that seems to have been replaced. I'm an old fashion girl at heart, though I do love the beauty of CG stuff and nothing can be the special effects. Still, if you are a lover of the genius of Neil Gaiman's work, Coraline will take you on a dark adventure into a little girl's want for everything and the realization that sometimes getting it is not always best.

Coraline is the story of a little girl that is forced to move somewhere new for her parent's work, both who ignore her and are absorbed in their own little worlds. In an effort to entertain herself, she meets Wybie, a weird boy with a stray black cat, who tells her of his grandma's sister disappearing in the same apartment as she lives now.

Coraline laughs it off, but when she find a little door that seems to lead to another world at night, she starts believing that just maybe Wybie is right. On the other side is her life only the way she wants it with everyone catering to her every desire and totally absorbed in making her happy. The only thing that is odd about this new place is everyone except the black stray cat as buttons for eyes and the cat seems to talk. Will Caroline stay or will see she what is really going on in front of her?

For lovers of Nightmare Before Christmas and Corspe Bride, Coraline will give you all the good fun darkeness you've enjoyed, but this is definitely not a movie for younger viewers. It is scary, has a scene that involves a fat woman and a thong, and could give nightmares rather easily. I suggest that this one can wait until they are at least ten, same as the novel that started it all. Besides that, Coraline is visually gorgeous and a definite buy on BluRay, if you have it. The clarity and 3D scenes make it stunning as well as pull you into the world that Gaiman creates.

I would definitely give this one a 4 1/2 out of 5. Be careful what you wish for.

KNOWING

2009-07-15T20:49:00.000-05:00

So....Netflix delivered a good movie on my doorstep this morning and with no pre-thoughts (those ones you have even before you open the seal on the envelope) my hubby and I put it in the Playstation and prepared to watch a movie that seemed to stem around numbers and natural disasters. What transpired though had me at the edge of my seat.

Nicolaus Cage stares as a widower raising his young son, whose school celebrates its fiftieth anniversary by digging up a time capsule that was buried on the eve of its opening. Inside they find pictures the children in the past drew, plus a very odd letter filled with numbers. As Cage's character studies these scrawls further, he discovers that each set of them tells of a certain disaster that is about to take place including date as well as number who die. Within minutes, he as well as the watcher begins an adventure to find out exactly what the numbers are running down to.

With over the top, but well done special effects, this movie is a wild and weird ride that begs the question of what is going to happen next. Storyline moves at a steady pace, but beside, Cage and his son, the minor characters are numerous and are almost fly by night, never giving the audience a chance to really care about them. Great twists keep the film entertaining and though not one to own, it is definitely a movie to rent, though definitely not for the young ones. Recommended for those thirteen and older, in my opinion and even then, I urge parents to watch it first. Otherwise, a definite worth seein' film... 3 1/2 out of 5...

Returning Series

2009-07-14T15:18:00.001-05:00

Well, thankfully, this last year was better to me than the previous as two of my favorite shows were cancelled and a few other went to pot. Back in the fall and winter of 2008-09, though my TV watching was restored by great shows like Lie To Me, Castle, and Dollhouse....all three returning for another season and hopefully just as impressive as last year's.

"Lie To Me" on Fox was just awesome...putting together a great scientific field with a very awesome cast of individuals. The art of lying has always interested me and this series does everything plus leaves you breathless and waiting for more.

"Castle" on ABC...well, besides having Nathan Fillion as the main role (Can you say HOT?), this series is just an over the top crime fun for all that keeps getting better. Though filled with murders that are pretty easy to solve (coming from a woman who use to eat mysteries for breakfast), the chemistry between Rick Castle and his daughter makes it a great addition to the line up. So glad it's coming back.

"Dollhouse" on Fox...Creator Joss Whedon says it all..intense, great dialogue, and quite a rip roaring plot, this series I think was saved solely because Fox was afraid they would have another Firefly. It has good elements though and I really believe left to mature, might become quite the series, almost as good as Firefly itself. (Please, fellow Browncoats, no shooting me).

Also along for the ride is "Sanctuary", which I reviewed a few entries before. A show about a place for abnormals to go and be free, safe from the destructiveness of humans.

Now, if there is a series here that you love and I have not mentioned, then please let me know. I love the CSIs as well as The Closer. These are just ones that got a second chance to make a good first impression and here's hoping they can and do.

For more info on these or others, check out their websites.

Harry Dresden "Wizard for Hire"

2009-07-13T12:21:00.001-05:00

For those of you who have never heard of the other Harry, the one without the scar who instead of a traditional wand carries a drumstick and instead of a snowy owl has an annoying spirit in a skull by the name of Bob, then you are missing a series of books that will capture your heart as well as your soul.

Imagine Harry Potter without his friends, grown up and in a world of muggles he is trying to keep safe from things that not only go bump in the night, but have a rather dangerous way of doing so. Written by the master author, Jim Butcher, The Dresden Files chronicles the life and adventures of Harry Blackstone Copperfield Dresden (conjure at your own risk), a wizard who lives and works out of Chicago. Born to a mother who was a witch and a father who was a travelling magician, Harry had a good life until his mother was killed by something. As he had his father continued on, young Harry realized he was special and his uncle wanted to train him.

When a mysterious heart attack takes his father down, he is forced to move in with his uncle, who isn't all that he seems.

'Storm Front' begins that the series as Harry begins to explore the darker venues of the world from demons, vampires, and werewolves, to the Seelie and Unseelie Courtst run by the Fey. If you are an urban fantasy lover or just one who has caught the fantasy bug, these books will definitely by worth your time. Especially if you were a fan of the short lived SciFi channel series that though was good, didn't do the books justice.

Here is Jim Butcher's site for a list of the eleven novels in the series. Not necessary to read them in order but it does help...

http://www.jim-butcher.com/

New Series

2009-07-12T10:28:00.001-05:00

So...my sister and I found a new series that we've been watching....well, it is actually going on its second season this fall, but if you have Netflix, you can catch the first season online. It is called 'Sanctuary' and will be on the new improved SyFy channel.

If you like the legends of old like the Folding man, Big Foot, animal mixed humanoids, and just things that go bump in the night, you will enjoy this dark fantasy/sci-fi show. Dr. Helen Magnus (played by Amanda Tapping) is a beautiful scientist that seems to has wisdom beyond her years and with the help of her daughter, Ashley (Emilie Ullerup) and a few other various colleagues, offer sanctuary for the world's 'abnormals', or creatures and beings that come from our legends and myths

Joining their little group is Dr. Will Zimmerman (Robin Dunne), a forensic psychiatrist whose mother was killed by something evil when he was young. Of course, laughed off as just a young boy in trauma, Will is ignored and becomes an eccentric...good at his job, but regarded as crazy. When a case that is not all that it seems lands in his sights, Will comes face to face with Dr. Magnus and her collection of creatures.As the pilot concludes, Helen offers Will a job, to work with her and protect the 'abnormals' finding them and giving them a sanctuary away from the destructive humans, who don't understand them.

Sanctuary reminds me a little of 'X-files' and has the dark raw humor of series like 'Angel' and 'Buffy'. Its characters are well developed and fun, though I have only watched a few episodes. The special effects are television quality and the action is believable or as much as a fantasy show can make it. As for the story lines, they are well played, interesting, and keep you guessing throughout the show.

If you miss the good fantasy felt in 'Angel', or the investigations in 'X-files', 'Sanctuary' offers that in a dark and fun way. It's an extremely entertaining romp and comes back this fall on the SyFy channel. Watch and enjoy!!

'Sanctuary" returns this fall...check out its website for more info.....

http://www.sanctuaryforall.com/

Wow!! Has it been awhile...

2009-06-09T16:03:00.001-05:00

So....since my last post...I have moved...which to most is such a big undertaking that one tends to go completely insane in the process, requiring one to ask their local Psych for meds to make brain return to normal...thankfully, I was already quite crazy to begin with so no meds for me....I have started writing full time....well as mush as full time is at least a few hours every day with the benefits of a co author most of those who has gotten use to my craziness...as seem above and is less likely to talk to his psych into offering me said meds to calm me down or him down depending on how much of an influence I am on him...I just hope I don't drive him to drink, since that's what my hubby says...though I think he just likes an excuse to have a cold beer when he gets home....I have both kids home....the blessed school year is over and has now opened up the summer to both my kids and now that having a backyard is wonderful, there is still the nagging 'moms' that come with both kids home....and they wonder why I am crazy....try having a three year old and an eight year old who are polar opposites of each other in a house where their mommy is trying hard to write...I have learned to have selective hearing...whether it be cries or crashes.....thankfully, each still has all their limbs and they are still in one piece.....So if you wonder where I have gone....see above. All other complaints....well, email me!!! ;)

BadToTheBone360x280

2009-04-08T20:02:00.001-05:00

Firefly Fans

2009-04-06T12:20:00.000-05:00

If you are a Firefly Fan and have not experienced the wonderful world of Fireflyfans.net, then you should take a few minutes and go. There you will discover original stories, artwork, and wonderful people who have not lost the signal and who hope that one day the wonderful series will return. For those who know not what I speak of, Dear Reader, please check it out on Hulu, Blockbuster, or on Netflix. I know right now you can watch Serenity instantly on Netflix so please give it a try. You might find out just what the big deal about being a Browncoat really is.

So please stop by and visit us at Fireflyfans.net. I am there with my OC characters Angelle and Cat as well as are my friends, Jane and Ali. Both great writers and awesome people to hang with.

http://www.fireflyfans.net/

Bolt Review

2009-03-30T12:13:00.000-05:00

So, my family rented Walt Disney's Bolt from Netflix over the weekend and like most movies we get, I always watch it first as the reviewer and then another time as just entertainment, unless I really don't care for it. Well, to make a long story short, I ended up watching it three times and even after the third, I still laughed and loved it.

Following in the wonderfully entertaining animal stories like Finding Nemo and Chicken Little, Bolt opens with the adventures of a young pup becoming a Wonder dog, able to leap huge distances and melt metal with his powerful stare. Above all, is his SUPER-Bark, which can destroy everything with its power. He does all this to keep his owner, Penny from the evil clutches of Dr. Calico. The only problem is he thinks it's real when really it is just TV.

Imagine his surprise when some events drop him on the completely opposite side of the country and releases him into the real world away from the rubber props and plastic guns. Now, Bolt has to become a 'real' dog and manage a way back to his Penny and Hollywood. Along for the ride is alley cat, Mittens who is street wise and must explain to her captor that he is in fact a real dog void of powers. To make the trio, well, a trio is Rhino, the danger craving Rhino the hamster. With his antics and pure belief that Bolt is exactly who he says he is, the three begin a one way trek cross country that will take Bolt from the TV hero he's not to a 'real' hero that might just find friends in places he never thought he would find.

Walt Disney truly has another masterpiece here with familiar voices like Miley Cyrus and John Travolta and great animation that is synonymous with the Disney name. The characters will make you fall in love with Bolt and his unwavering courage, Mittens and her street wise attitude, and Rhino and his belief in impossible thing. It truly is a gorgeous story of the impossible dreams of three very normal house pets.

What I woke Up to this morning

2009-03-28T18:03:00.001-05:00

This is what I woke up to. It finally ended around 5 pm. Earlier in the week, we were in the 80s.

Let the snow fall down....

just as long as I have my friends and family and heater to keep me warm.

Dollhouse "Getting Good"

2009-03-27T19:28:00.000-05:00

So, several more weeks and episodes later and I must admit, Dollhouse, by Firefly and Buffy creator Joss Whedon has really taken the world by storm. It had a lack luster start, making some not want to tune in for the next episode, but those of us die hard Whedon junkies, were rewarded when we continued to be loyal and know that if Joss is the one writing it, then it has to get better. Plus, we all know what Fox did to Firefly so who knows what they might have been trying on Dollhouse.

Last weeks episode though, really amazed me and others like me. It began to fill out the story behind the Dollhouse, instead of just teasing us with bits and pieces and tonight's episode sounds like it's just going to get better from here on out.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Dollhouse name, the series is about young women and men called actives that are 'programmed' to be whoever they are needed to be. Hired by the wealthy to be the perfect date or hired to enact justice in some form or another, they are then stripped of all knowledge by having their memories wiped and bringing them back to a child like state. Sadly, they have no memory of their past or of any other 'life' they might have had. There is no idea whether they have done this voluntarily or not.

So, if you are one who watch one episode and decided to give up or if you are just tuning in, give the Dollhouse a try. It might just surprise you. Oh, and in the vase are three flowers and one of them is yellow. Don't get it....watch!!!

Author Spot: Rita Mae Brown

2009-03-26T10:13:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm sick in bed with a cold and I find that when I am in this particular spot, I always seem to reach for a book that I've read before. One of my favorite authors that I tend to grab is Rita Mae Brown.

Be it her wonderful Mrs. Murphy and Tee Tucker series or the Fox hunting adventure of Sister, I find that I love reading them over and over again. Her way with how animals think and what they would say has me rolling on the floor. even tossing a look at my cat as he stares at me wondering what he might be saying.

For those not familiar with her writings, Ms. Brown writes mysteries, most set in smaller towns in Central Virginia. Both have something to do with the tradition of Fox Hunting, though 'Sister' Arnold's stories (e.g. Full Cry, Outfoxed, The Hunt Ball, etc.) are centered around the sport. Each has their own set of animal characters that 'talk', but only to each other. It lends a fun side to the art of murder that some books lack.

Her co-author for the Mrs. Murphy mysteries is her striped tabby Sneaky Pie Brown, who bears an extraordinary resemblance to the main 'cat'ater in the books, Mrs. Murphy. Together with her friends, Tee Tucker (a welsh corgi) and Pewter ( a fat grey feline always in search of food), they help their always curious owner, Mary Minor 'Harry' Haristeen solve the case without getting killed in the process.

If you haven't read anything by Rita Mae, I implore you to. She is a wonderful writer that puts her whole heart into her stories. Her characters are so real you wonder if they actually exist somewhere in the world and you can tell by the way she writes each of their struggles, that she truly cares what happens to them. Even the settings of her novels wrap you in the art of New England and its lush traditions, some of which are dying out.

So, if you are searching for a book to spend an afternoon with or something to take with you on your next flight, pick up on of the many books in Rita Mae Brown's creative library. You might just find yourself looking at your pet wondering just what it might be thinking.

For a list of her books, please stop by her website at http://www.ritamaebrown.com/content/index.asp

Close Encounters Review

2009-03-23T16:52:00.000-05:00

Are you a fan of Anne McCaffrey with her ships that speak, and races that seem to mean more than meets the eye? How about a heroine that is genetically engineered to protect that which she is swore to protect and that was satisfied with traveling the cosmos with her ship until fate lad her to the burly arms of a tribal man? Well, look no further than the debut novel of Katherine Allred, Close Encounters.

Meet Kiera Smith, a GEP(Genetically Engineered Person) with her cocky ship, Max and the rock cat that is just a little more intelligent than what's go for him, Crigo. Their job is to search for new life forms, map new planets, and basically trek through the galaxy. Though Kiera is okay with her life, the longing to be normal eats at her, even though she is very special indeed.
When a call comes in from her maker, Daniels, Kiera jumps at the chance to save a race and see why a major corporation has taken such an interest in a planet. What she finds is a primitive race that is gentle and may just be what she has been looking for, even though she might just have to fight to save it.

As I started this novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I am not a big sci fi fan, though I did enjoy Anne McCaffrey and others like her. This book, though, truly surprised me. Reading like an urban fantasy with lush environments and memorable characters that draw you in, Allred immerses her readers into a place where those wanting good plot get it and those wanting a romance with action are equally satisfied.

With scenes that are violent and others that will take your sexual breath away, this is definitely for the older reader, but is definitely worth a read or two. Even if you are not into sci fi and like the feel of urban fantasy, this book might appeal to you. So, take a ride on a ship called Max and enjoy the creative mind of Katherine Allred in Close Encounters.....

Got Me Some Castle

2009-03-23T00:30:00.000-05:00

So...two episodes have come and go with another slated for tomorrow night and all I have to say is...are you watching?!

Richard Castle is the new break way author, whose thrilling novels are talking the world by storm. The only problem is he's tired of writing them, and is ready for a change. He gets it when a copy cat starts turning his novels into reality.

Brought on to the case by his own sheer curiosity and the fact the detective is an attractive young woman, Castle charges in, finding being shot at and in the thick of things is rather thrilling. Suddenly, the once bored writer has found his new character using the fast talking Beckett as a model, much to her utter annoyance. Before long, things might get more heated than either would like them to be....

Castle is such a great series, filled with humor, wit, and that whodunit intrigue that you can only get with these type of shows. Coined 'Murder She Wrote' with a rather sexier Angela, Castle is played by the stellar and rather heartbreaking Nathan Fillion, who starred in the cult show Firefly. One of the things that makes him so perfect for this role is the fact that Fillion has such a terrific way of waering his emotions on his sleeve. His face is so readable and you actually think of him as Richard Castle, not an actor playing him.

I love the chemistry between the characters, from hot talking Beckett to the relationship between Castle and his level headed daughter or his rather eccentric mother. Each is well written and excuted. I will say that is definitely a series I hope goes far into a few more seasons.

So, if you haven't flipped over to Castle on Mondays on ABC, then maybe this would be a good time to. I think you'll find that solving the murder is as much fun as getting to the conclusion in the frist place....

Wicked Game Review

2009-03-22T14:33:00.000-05:00

In lue of the May release of Bad to the Bone, I wanted to post a review for the first in the series:

As you open Wicked Game by Jeri Smith-Ready, I am sure that what goes through your mind is the same as what went through mine...not another vampire novel. After all, most have somewhat the same plot, the same blood thirsty characters and damsels in distress and probably the same lines that come from countless hours spent reading said novels, only to find that the book ends the exact same way. Well, dear reader, what you hold in your hand is not one of those carbon copies. Get ready for an adventure in vampire DJ-ing at its finest.

Enter our main character, Ciara Griffin...con artist now trying for the straight and narrow forced to become one of the labor minded aka getting a job at WVMP, a radio station that plays just about every kind of music out there. Things get slightly weirder when she soon discovers her new bosses are not human at all, but vampires that remain hooked in the eras they were turned.

Thinking that this might be cause for a quick exit, Ciara soon learns that WVMP is in serious trouble from a big corporation willing to just about anything to get their hands on the vamps' station, which has been keeping them basically 'alive'. So with an expert con that just might pull WVMP into the big leagues and a little bit of old fashioned luck, Ciara begins something that will either make her or break her and the latter might not be such a good thing....

As with all of Jeri's wonderful stories, Wicked Game goes above and beyond with believable characters, one that will make you love them or love to hate them. Her writing flows with every word pulling you deep into a story that is both original and full of surprises. There are a few good sex scenes that are tastefully done. though I would still make sure not to let pre-teens read this. It is definitely an adult book.

So, if you are truly looking for a good original vampire story that will keep you on the edge of your seat and even have you singing the songs that seem to well up through the pages as you read, Wicked Game will definitely not disappoint, I assure you.

On March 31, the mass paperback is coming out. Preorder yours from Amazon now.

http://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Game-Jeri-Smith-Ready/dp/1439101345/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237750678&sr=1-2

And don't forget to pick up a copy of Bad to the Bone on May 16th.

Jesus Fish Review (Movie)

2009-03-20T21:26:00.000-05:00

So I was asked by a friend to write a review for an independent film about the reality of Christians. He told me that it would be a film that would definitely be a new concept and not something that i had ever seen before. My response was of course, i would watch it and give him my opinion, but that i was more into review books and not one for independent film. Not that it's not a great hobby or even career starter, I just didn't need another hobby. Anyway, here is my review of a very controversial film called Jesus Fish....

Filmed in and around the Tulsa area, Jesus Fish begins like most Christian films, a young girl trying to win a soul to Jesus before they pass on. For five whole minutes, you begin to wonder what exactly is so special about this film. With in a second or two, everything changes as a tench coat Jesus look-a-like bursts through the door packing a loaded shotgun and screaming at the top of his lungs. Suddenly, your eyes widen and you begin the journey through the lives of several different people that all belong to one very different Bible study.

You will meet people from every walk of life and will experience things like a drug dealer's house, a church play, and a grave scene for a girl that may or may not be dead. The characters will have you screaming to hit them and cheering as a few get just what they deserve. At the end, you will look on a story that might just change you look on the Christian life forever.

As an independent film with a rather low budget, Jesus Fish was well put together with a decent script that at times seemed a bit unbelievable, but no more so than most good films. The characters were well developed and well portrayed, though more heavy on the strength of the females than the males. They did invoke emotions within the audience keeping one entertained until the end.

Jesus Fish is a rather odd little film that is rated R because of violence and an 'implied' rape scene. It is definitely not for the young ones and could be offensive for some more sensitive viewers. Though not something you might watch over and over, Jesus Fish is definitely worth watching at least once. It will definitely be a ride you won't soon forget.

Here is the website..... http://www.jesusfishmovie.com/

CASTLE

2009-03-04T23:03:00.000-06:00

Don't forget to watch Castle starring the delicious Nathan Fillion on Monday!!!!

Lie to Me and Dollhouse Review

2009-02-27T12:42:00.000-06:00

I have watched Lie to Me for about three weeks now and have been utterly pleased with its storyline as well as its charcters. With a good cast and episodes that strike not only the heart, but also give us a look into the minds of criminals and victims alike, this crime drama can hold its own with veteran shows like CSI and NCIS. Definitely check it out if you haven't already. On FOX Weds @8pm cst.

Dollhouse created by Joss Whedon, who brought us Buffy, Angel, and Firefly has only had two epsiodes to its name and I am still waiting to give it a good review. With kind of a blah start, I was unsure, but after the most recent episode, I am reserving judgement until another couple episodes. I will say that so far, I am enjoying what I see and am truly curious as to where they are going with it. Another to check out if you haven't. On FOX Fridays@ 8pm cst.

Don't forget Castle March 9th on ABC @ 9pm cst.

The Warded Man

2009-02-26T19:10:00.000-06:00

I received this new novel by Peter V. Brett a couple days ago from Del-Rey for review and so I decided to sit down from my few months being a mom to read it. I was so glad I did. The Warded Man is an intense ride that begins with the lives of three young children that through different diversities survive to fight on in a world where just the corelings or demons aren't the only things that should be feared.

In this well written novel, you will meet Arlen, Leesha, and Rojer, each set on their own path by tragedy or by the evil of others. Their journeys are all thwart with different types of danger from One Armed demons to the evil of greedy men. Each one will have you wrapped around their stories as they pull you from the world you know into one that nights are feared and demons roam only to take you into that darkness never to return.

The Warded Man is a well put together novel. With intense actions scenes that do not rob from the brilliant dialogue, the beautiful, yet, horrifying imagery literally engulfs you in a world that is filled with mountains, deserts, wall cities, and small villages. Each chapter brings you deeper into the shadows filling your mind with visions of small fire demons to the large stone ones.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves good fantasy and great action. It is a bit on the dark side with some violence to kids as well as to grown ups so please use discression when looking at it for kids younger than sixteen or so. Other than that, I implore you to give Mr. Brett a chance. I know I will be reading the next in his series for sure.....

Good Omens review

2009-01-15T11:04:00.000-06:00

Because of recent events, e.g. the knighting of Sir Terry Pratchett, I decided to reread one of my favorite books by him and writer Neil Gaiman, Good Omens. Now, if you are a lover of movies like Dogma or Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat, this is just the book for you.

Imagine if you will that the Apocalypse is coming and you knew exactly when the Antichrist would be born....say you decide that you actually like this planet and the lifestyle you have grown accustom to and just maybe you're not quite ready to give that up...this is exactly what has befallen the angel from the garden of Eden and his best friend, the demon who possessed the snake.

Together they decide to stop the end of the world, by switching the Antichrist and another child at birth, giving the would be destroyer of the world to some good wholesome people, imagine the Cleavers. Thus, begins an adventure that will make you laugh out loud. From the colorful four horseman or should I say horseperson, to the fluffy hell hound, who you just want to cuddle...Good Omens is one book you can not put down, even if it's the 'end of the world'.

Discworld Creator Knighted

2009-01-02T10:27:00.000-06:00

If you have had the pleasure of reading any of the over 25 novels in the Discworld series, the name Terry Pratchett is a familiar sight. Over the New year's holiday, he was knighted by the Queen joining the ranks of Sean Connery and Patick Stewart. This is a great honor for him, but one well deserved for the world and novels he has brought us. If you have not had a chance to read his books, some of the titles are:

1.) Colour of Magic

2.) Soul Music

3.) Good Omens (with Neil Gaimen)

and the list goes on.........

2009-01-01T12:32:00.000-06:00

Happy 2009!!!!

Make a resolution to be nice to at least one person a day. Be it a stranger or someone you know and be blessed in the coming year....

New Series I Wanna Watch Out For

2008-12-29T13:08:00.000-06:00

Castle: Starring Nathan Fillion (Mal Reynolds from Firefly), this series looks to be quite awesome. A new age 'Murder She Wrote', Frank Castle is a murder mystery best seller who becomes involved with the police after someone start copying the murders in his books...even if I didn't think Nathan was hot, I'd jump on board for this series Airs March 9th at 10pm e/9pm c on ABC

Lie to Me: This series just looks like a very interesting one. What if you could tell just by someone's body language that they were lying? So is the job of deception artist Dr. Cal Lightman played by Tim Roth. His character is based on real life lie detector, Dr. Paul Ekman. Airs January 21 at 9pm e/8pm c on Fox

Dollhouse: From the creative mind of Joss Whedon (Firefly, Angel, Buffy) comes the new drama that has a facility turning girls into whatever clients would like them to be. Wiping their personalties, these women are then put back into action as, yet, another totally different person. This is definitely one to keep an eye out for. Airs Feb 13 at 9pm e/8pm c on Fox

2008-12-23T16:57:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

2008-12-19T11:49:00.000-06:00

When you hear the name Fiona McIntosh, you know you are in for one awesome ride and in Royal Exile (Book One in the Valisar Trilogy, she didn't disappoint. From the first line of the prologue to the promise of another book at the end, this new trilogy opens with a great battle that inspires hatred and sympathy. Like all good stories, we are weaved into the fabric of the lives of a lost king in search of his kingdom, his love interest, and a cast of other characters that you not only love to have, but also hate to love.
I am not a big epic fantasy reader, though I have read many of the big names in the genre including Jordan and Goodkind. The reason I recommend this book is that it has all the elements of an epic, without the enormous page length that a lot of those books tend to be. For me, with kids and life getting in the way, I love a good rich story that can be read and enjoyed within a few days. This is one of those wonderful books.
I would definitely recommend this book to epic fans and fantasy readers alike. It had good adventure, great action, and a twisting plot that left you salivating for the next. Royal Exile is a book great for a long winter's night spent indoors by a fire. So, step into the land of where a lost king sets out to find his kingdom and begins an adventure that will change his life and the world around him forever.

Miracles Still happen

2008-12-10T19:44:00.000-06:00

Well, a small tornado hit our apartment complex and we didn't even get a warning. I thank God that it wasn't bigger. Scary as it was, my kids and hubby was upstairs and if it had been a big one, well, you don't need to be told as to what could have happened. Thankfully, we are all fine. We had some damage, a fence broken and a few holes in a couple buildings, but no one was hurt. For anyone not familiar with a tornado, it sounds like the washer on a spin cycle and you are in the middle of it.

On a sadder note, Monday was also the day my ball python, Angel died. He was twelve and I had had him for over eleven years. He will be missed.

2008-11-28T18:11:00.000-06:00

With Christmas coming closer and closer, I figured I would do a few holiday book reviews to get people into the season. I love reading holiday books doing the month of December and one of my favs to read with my kids is the Legend of Holly Claus. It is a very cute story from the heart of a little boy who asks Santa what he wants for Christmas.

Born to the Clauses is their little girl, Holly, who becomes cursed with a heart surrounded by ice and forced to live her life very alone. With her friends a beautiful white wolf, a snowy owl, an Arctic fox and a cute little penguin, she begins a journey of love and excitement meant to warm the heart and ignite the soul.

My seven year old loves this book. It is well written with adorable and memorable characters that filled page after page with an enchanting princess story. Animal lovers will enjoy her companions as they travel along side, helping her and protecting her as the evil wizard tries hard to own her heart.

I recommend this to those who love Christmas and those with children who love to be read to. it is a nice size book with some beautiful pictures and easy to read dialogue. It is a welcome add to any one's collection.

2008-11-27T11:54:00.000-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!!!!!!!

Wishing you and yours a warm and food filled holiday!

From your friend at rabid hotdog.....

Cast of Characters Review

2008-11-19T12:15:00.000-06:00

If you have ever read anything by Max Lucado, you will already know the man can write. He puts those hard to understand Biblical Principles into easy bite able pieces. One of my favorites by him is No Wonder They Call Him Savior, which gives a whole new look into our Savior, Jesus Christ. In Cast of Characters, he shows just how Human the heroes of the Bible really were.

Those familiar with his books will recognize stories like Peter, who even after denying Christ was told at the tomb he had been forgiven or Thomas, the man who doubted, but was one of the greatest men of God to have lived.

There are also new stories such as Moses, a fugitive on the run for killing a man, but was good enough to lead God's people from captivity or Matthew, a tax collector (imagine being friends with an IRS man) who became one of Jesus' posse. Ordinary men, who God found extraordinary...

Ever since I read my first book by Max, I fell in love with his storyteller style and fun sense of humor. He relates to the family with stories of his two daughters and wonderful wife and to the every day human with stories of hope in a world that tends to give up on it. Whether Cast f Characters is your first or just another one to add to your list, it will definitely not be your last. Pick it up and begin an adventure into the real life stories of God's chosen few.

Wall-E on Blu Ray

2008-11-18T16:19:00.000-06:00

Well, we just purchased Disney's Wall-E on Blu Ray and have already watched it. LOL! My two year old is a BIG fan. The basic storyline is about a little robot named Wall-E, who is the only thing left on planet Earth, besides his faithful pet. The little robot reminds me of Short Circuit and ET with his best friend being a little roach who loves Twinkies. LOL!! His primary function is to clean up the Earth, but has become slightly human collecting things that he sees as special. Among them is an old VHS tape pf Hello Dolly, this being where he finds out what love is.

One fateful day a spaceship lands bringing with it a probe, which turns out to be the little robot's love interest, Eve. Thus, begins a romance and feel good story that will span the generations.

For those who have not yet seen Wall-E, it is a cute movie that not only teaches us a thing about love, but also about our desire to keep Earth clean. Yes, it has that environmental message, but it is one we all need to hear. My biggest thing about the movie is both little ones and big ones can enjoy Wall-E and his friends antics.

If you purchase the three disc blu ray, you will get the Digital copy for your computer. I like that feature because then when my hubby is playing or watching something on TV, the kids can still watch Wall-E. I also have Nightmare Before Christmas. Also on the DVD, is another short (the one with the magician and his rabbit is on there too and if you have not yet seen it, it is sooo cute) about a little robot named Burn-E. He would be the one that is stuck outside when Eve and Wall-E come in from their dance out in space.

If you have kids, love Disney, and just need a great movie to go with your popcorn, rent, buy, or even borrow this too cute little robot's story. You will not regret it.

Gears of War Aspho Fields Review

2008-11-12T09:15:00.000-06:00

Marcus Fenix...Dominc Santiago....if these names are unfamiliar to you, then you probably have not played Gears of War on the Xbox 360. If that be the case, this book will introduce you to some memorable characters as well as a world plagued by war against humans as well as the creatures they call the Horde.

I was introduced to this game from Epic by my gamer hubby and have fell in love with the characters as well as the story. Liken a lot to Halo, Gears brings out a story line that is rich without taking away and this book just adds to the drama. Marcus is a loner who has been ignored by his very rich parents and is befriended by the brothers Santiago, Dom and Carlos. Knowing that his father will be disappointed, Marcus enlists in the COGs, Coalition of Ordered Governments, recognized by the COG tags on their necks.

This book takes place during the war against the Horde, but flashed back to the Pendulum Wars in which the battle for Aspho Fields takes place. Marcus has kept a secret from Dom that effects what happen to his brother and as things get heated in battle, the truth begins to emerge. Can their friendship survive?

I am always apprehensive with books like this. Though the game is awesome, I have learned that the movies and books lack the luster. This is not the case here. This books stays true to the story as well as the thrill of playing the game. I could hear the sounds of Lancer fire and the sound of the King Ravens overhead. So in short, if you are a fan of the game or just getting started, this book is a great read even for those who have never heard of Gears.

2008-11-07T09:55:00.000-06:00

Dragons.....be they reptiles with wings or intelligent creatures of myth and legend, good books about them are gems that should be treasured. Eragon is one of those masterfully written wonders.
Open up to a fight over an egg, dark blue and gorgeous sent by magic to be found by a peasant boy looking to feed his family. Mix in the stories of an old man, of dragons that lit up the sky with their glorious fire and keep evil at bay. Add the most beloved Saphira, sapphire dragon who becomes bounded to a young Eragon and thrown into an adventure that only dreams can contain....
Paolini has given us a masterpiece when it comes to a classic novel, spinning a tale that even Tolkein and Lewis would be proud of. Do not base this book on what you have seen in the movie. It is not a book for younger kids. Violent and sometimes a bit disturbing, either read it first or make sure your child is okay with images like that. If you have read Harry, then this is about as dark and scary.

Relic Review

2008-11-06T23:16:00.001-06:00

Take one part Jurassic Park, then add a bit of the scientific fun of the Fly, and finally, throw in a killer cast of odd characters that will have you longing for just another slice of "edge of your step while holding on to the book for dear life" pie. Enter Relic, the novel who introduces us to a cast of characters that have carried us through several more novels and I hope will continue as the years go by. Many may recognize this title from a movie that came out a little after the book was written, but besides a few bits in the story line, that is all they have in common. Set in the beautiful New York Museum of History (the movie was set in Chicago), the novel begins with the opening of the Gala event where Margo Green, a graduate student and her professor, Dr. Frock are preparing samples and idols for the museum's superstitions gallery. All is suddenly put on hold when a dead body is found mutilated with no head and the police come in to figure out who done it. Among these officers is Lt. D'Agosta, a seasoned cop with a love for finding his man. The one character the movie left out that is sooo important to the books is FBI agent, Pendergast. He is as secretive and mysterious as the nature of the murders that begin happening around the museum. And yes, there is a creature. For those who love horror and just a really good keep you up all night novel, this one is for you. Watch out though, because it will get you hooked into a world that these two creative geniuses have spun. So open the door to the Museum...good luck getting back...

The Passing of A Great Writer

2008-11-06T08:38:00.000-06:00

Michael Crichton passed away on Tuesday due to a battle with cancer. It is a sad day for anyone who enjoyed books such as Next and Prey, or movies from his books like Jurassic Park and Sphere. He also created the popular TV series ER. His writing and creativity will be sorely missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with the ones closest to him.....Michael Crichton lived from 1942-2008. He was a notable author, producer, director, and medical doctor.

Monster of Florence Review

2008-11-05T08:43:00.000-06:00

I am not a true crime reader, but I love Douglas Preston so when I saw this on the shelf, I knew I just had to read it. Thus began an adventure that would rival that of Jack the Ripper. Liken to Jack, the Monster of Florence is the Italian legend who, instead of slaying prostitutes, would prey on young couples. With gun in hand, he would kill the man and woman before cutting into the woman's body. The description here is taken out because of the graphic nature of what the Monster did. It is something I would rather not explore in word. You must read the book to find out.

Preston handles this story as he does so much of his writing. He is very descriptive and thorough. He paints a picture of every scene and takes you there whether you want to or not. During his investigation, he also caught the attention of the local authorities of where he is still under the scope. Strangely, all of this started because he lives very close to the grove where one of the several double murders happened.

Again, I am not a true crime fan. I do read many of the books about Jack the ripper so I knew what to expect here. Monster of Florence is a great book for those who love gruesome history and a well written criminal investigation. I will not tell you whether they solved the Italian legend, but I will say it is definitely a page turning marvel.

The New KITT

2008-11-02T14:09:00.000-06:00

Okay, I have been watching the New Knight Rider, since I was a BIG fan when the original was out. I loved the chemistry between Michael Knight and KITT and of course, I was only about five at the time, I just loved the whole talking car thing. What little kid wouldn't, so when the new one came out, I was ready for it.

First big difference is KITT is a mustang, which is not a real big deal. The Trans Am is not really made any more and he has to be a state of the art vehicle so allowances are made. Second, Val Kilmer is doing the voice. Now, I like Val, but to me, his voice lacks the emotion that William Daniels had, or to those who loved Boy Meets World, Mr. Finney. It was a killer blow for me picturing this tough car with the voice of a middle aged pincipal either. LOL!!

I will say on the plus side, the new Michael Knight played by JustinBruening is hot. Of course, back in the day, David Hasselhoff was the lady killer. Now, you watch and he's kind of a big permed baboon. I will say that he and Daniels though had the chemistry that Justin and Val lack.

I do like the new series. It has some very strong points and still has the appeal the old one did, I just miss the KITT of yore. He had that wit and charm the mustang lacks and the personality that brought us back for more. For anyone interested, Knight Rider is on NBC on Weds at 8pm est/7pm cst. The original can be purchased on DVD in seasons or dowloaded instantly on Netflix.

Knight Rider website on NBC...watch episodes now!!!

http://www.nbc.com/Knight_Rider/

For Young Men Only Review

2008-11-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

I won this from a great blogger, which I will post at the bottom of this article, please please go visit her today. She is quite awesome. Anyway, on with this review...do you have an up and coming teenage boy in your life, who has no idea what women his age want and even his father is at a blank and you are in desperate need of guidance?! There is help and the answer lies in this book.

When I began to read FYMO, I could only nod my head at the wonderful insight these writers had. From everything to what a girl sees in a guy to the dreaded whether a girl wants to 'do it' is in this book and handled beautifully. Now, for even you older men, it can be an eye opener as well. My husband read it, mostly because I asked him, and even he couldn't believe some of the things he read. Even casting an eye to me and saying 'Is that Really how you all think?" and then"Wish this was out when I was younger."

I have a young boy who is all of two, but believe me, this will be waiting for him when he gets older. It will be a mandatory read before he begins dating and a reference when there are things he needs help understanding. If you are a young man and are in the dating scene or a mom with a son heading there, you NEED to read this book. And for all you others out there, the series has For Women Only, For Young women Only, and For Men Only. I am buying all of them to add to my shelf.

Connie Mishali's Weblog

http://seewhykinsman.wordpress.com/

Vampire Academy Review

2008-10-31T23:57:00.000-05:00

So many people talk about Twilight and miss this super great book......

I liked Twilight, but I had a hard time dealing with Bella. I thought she was just too...girly for some having with vampires. I wanted someone that could stand with them in a fight and not cower behind....Enter Rose. She is the bodyguard to Lissa, a vampire princess that must attend school and keep out of the clutches of the dark side. Rose is aggressive and hard headed, sometimes risking Lissa while trying to prove she is strong, but all the while terrified to let anyone else in.

To make her stronger, her elders bring in the hot and ever so delicious Dimitri and with fists and kicks a flying, Rose's world gets a might more interesting.

This is one killer book for anyone who loves Vampires and is looking for a good young adult book. I strongly urge anyone, not just teens to pick it up because once you start it, you won't put it down or the second and third. LOL!!

So get past Edward and Bella, not that I don't love them, and sink your teeth into Rose and Lissa's often dangerous lives

Wicked Review

2008-10-30T19:05:00.000-05:00

I am a Wizard of Oz fan and this book is definitely NOT your movie with the cute little munchkins running around singin about the lollipop guild. So be warned...

This is the story about the Wicked Witch of the West and how she became so 'misunderstood'. A big warning here..this book is very political in nature and if you are again the one who watched the movie because you thought Toto was cute and Oz was such a fairy tale land, DO NOT read this book.

Now on with the review.. Like I said before I am a really big fan of Oz and all that Frank Baum put into it, but what Maguire does is make you actually 'feel' for the Wicked Witch, whose name is actually Elphaba. She is born green skinned and completely misunderstood. While I read this, I couldn't help, but picture Wednesday Adams.

You continue on in her life of how her family never quite understand her and how her little sister is her mother's favorite. We meet a few of the more familar characters in the novel as well from Dorothy, who is the love interest of Elphie's son and of course, the cute littl Munchins, who are not really all the cute in the story.

I won't go into any further detail except to say, if you truly are a die hard Oz fan, you should really read this book and its sequel. I also know that the story of the Lion comes out soon. So, in closing, the Wizard might be wonderful, but this book truly is an Oz masterpiece.

The Way of Shadows Review

2008-10-29T10:10:00.001-05:00

I love great books about assassins and this one is no exception. Book one of the Night Angel Trilogy,The Way of Shadows had wonderful characters, a great setting, and a storyline that kept me glued to my chair for the duration of the book.
Azoth(Kylar) is the main character, who goes from guild rat to assassin in this action packed novel. Trained as a master assassin by the best in the game, Durzo Blint, Azoth must give up everything to accomplish the unexpected.
The fight scenes are brilliantly handled and smooth, fitting in with the dialogue. Mr. Weeks does a wondeful job with the flow of the book, which in my opinion, is key to a good strong story. I really can't wait for the next one.

You can read the first chapter here.

http://www.orbitbooks.net/the-way-of-shadows/

It's defintely not me? At least I think it's not....

2008-10-28T23:59:00.000-05:00

The statistics on sanity is that one out of every four persons is suffering from some sort of mental illness. Think of your three best friends -- if they're okay, then it's you.

Want me Some 'Castle'

2008-10-28T09:07:00.000-05:00

The cast....

Coming in 2009 is a new series on ABC called Castle. The premise behind it is a crime novelist that gets recruited by the police when people are being murdered in the same way as his novels. For us writers and those who love a good murder mystery, it sounds killer. For those who just want to stare at a hot guy, well, I can't think of many more sexy than Nathan Fillion. So stay tuned to ABC and here when I can find out more.....

Nathan as Rick Castle

http://castletv.net/ Here is the link to the web site.

http://www.duckydoestv.com/2008/10/06/preview-nathan-fillions-castle-abc-promo-video/ here is the link to the promo spot.

Check out both!!!

Growing Older, But Not Growin' Up

2008-09-30T19:16:00.000-05:00

I am officially 31 on the 10th of October and I got to thinking. Growing older does not mean you have to grow up. I hate the phrase 'Act your age'...ok, so how does a 31 year old act and who determines how that age acts?! I am still a kid at heart. I love cartoons, I love playing games, and watching movies. I read and love kid's book and YA, so here is my question for you......are you just growing older or are you actually growing up as well?

Why We Don't Understand Men

2008-09-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

I have now got an idea why women do not understand men. It is only a theory, but of all the others I have heard, it is the best yet.

We just plain don't have the time. As single women, we are constantly running, reading, fixing ourselves up for the male race, or just trying to get from one date to another alive. As married women, we are trying to keep our man satisfied with the housework, the work work, and of course, having somewhat of a sex life. Just as we begin to get an idea as to how they operate, boom...baby makes three or four and then there is no time at all. So, is it our fault that we do not understand them...I say no, because it is because of them that keeps us from ever finding out.

And really, girls, who doesn't like a good mystery ever now and again?!

And This is Why I Watch Firefly

2008-09-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

Capt Malcolm Reynolds(Nathan Fillion)

Besides it being one helluva show. Though stupid Fox had to cancell it. Though there is a movie, Serenity.

Kind of the reasons why I also watch......

Harry Dresden(Paul Blackthorne)

The Dresden Files.....another cancel by Sc Fi Network, but I still read the books by Jim Butcher

Sephen Hart(James Murray)
Primeval on BBC America....another great show with lots of creatures.....

and let us definitely not forget.....

Dean Winchester (JensenAckles)

Supernatural on the WC....Ghosts and demons and two hot men....need I say more....

and last, but surely not least...we have....

Nick Stokes(George Eads)

CSI on CBS.....science and some hot male scientists in lab coats and sometimes not so much lab coat.....

TV.....my little black box full of hot men and hot shows....catch the ones still on, rent the ones that aren't....

Poetry Gone Crazy

2008-08-15T12:32:00.000-05:00

I danced and danced 'till dawn
I danced with Ying and Yang and Yong
I danced until the sun was high
and now I'll dance until I die.

Storytime

2008-06-23T11:23:00.000-05:00

The Adventures of Superstud and Evilguy

Episode #12: Power in a coke bottle

When we last left our hero, he was stranded up on the tallest skyscraper in Bigtroplis grasping an empty coke bottle like it was his last hope for victory. He stared at his nemesis, Evilguy with a glare that wouldn’t quite kill, but make you seriously uncomfortable.

“I have you in my grasp now, Evil. You will not get away this time.” He smiled and prepared to smash the bottle to the ground. “I know now that the source of all the evil you are is within the confines of this here bottle. I will now free it from its prison thus ending your reign of terror.” The bottle smashed to the concrete with a shatter, spilling glass everywhere. Superstud threw his head back and began to laugh….”that was far too easy.”

“You are right it was and stupid.” Evilguy decked our hero and sent him flying to the ground. “Did you really believe I’m that dumb? To put all the source of my badness into something as breakable as a bottle. Please.” He placed his foot on Stud’s throat.
“You always carry around that bottle.”

“Correction…I carry around a bottle. I enjoy a refreshing drink after my evil doings. It gives me energy to go about my evil chores. You wouldn’t believe how tiring robbing a bank or blowing up innocent people can be. I feel refreshed.”

“Oh, my mistake…”

“Besides, my powers are much to exceptional for a simple bottle. No, the real source of my power is the bottle cap.” Evilguy rammed his foot harder on to Superstud’s neck and cackled.
Will this be the last of our studly hero or will his brawn take up where his brain left off? Find out in the next adventure of…

The Adventures of Superguy and Evilstud…or is that the other way around…damn I need a new agent…this narrating business is for the birds…I bet Regis didn’t have to do this crap…an empty coke bottle…please…who writes this stuff…seen better on a cereal box…I really need a stiff drink…. CUT

Welcome!!

2008-02-29T19:50:00.000-06:00

I have two minds and the insane one just happens to reside here so sit back and have a mind trip on me because this is my world. Bloody good luck getting back!!!