The Revolution: A Manifesto by Ron Paul

The Revolution: A Manifesto by Ron Paul
My rating:Back It Up

Summary: 

This Much Is True: You Have Been Lied To

· The government is expanding.
· Taxes are increasing.
· More senseless wars are being planned.
· Inflation is ballooning.
· Our basic freedoms are disappearing.

The Founding Fathers didn't want any of this. In fact, they said so quite clearly in the Constitution of the United States of America. Unfortunately, that beautiful, ingenious, and revolutionary document is being ignored more and more in Washington. If we are to enjoy peace, freedom, and prosperity once again, we absolutely must return to the principles upon which America was founded. But finally, there is hope . . .
 
My Thoughts:

This is a read that is WAYout of my comfort zone. I figured that I would pick up this book and try to become a more informed voter on the issues that are haunts America today. 

Before reading this book I heard of Ron Paul. I was not that sure who he was and what he stood for. After completing this book I am now a fan of his. In the book he does not jerk your chain and does try to take a different spin on a topic, but it heads the same results. I really enjoyed learning about the purpose of the constitution. I agree with the philosophy of smaller government and more liberty and independence for the people.

In the book he makes you think about the issues that he raises. This is good way for anyone to get into politics. This is a great read for anybody that wants to be a more informed voters in America today.

RIP

The events that took place yesterday morning in the Connecticut Elementary School Shooting. I just cannot even imagine what the families are going through. In just a few weeks those families were soppose to spend a quality holiday together. :*((

Please remember that innocent victims and not the shooter. 

The names of the victims have been released.
1. Charlotte Bacon DOB 2/22/06
2. Daniel Barden DOB 9/25/05
3. Rachel Davino DOB 7/17/83
4. Olivia Engel DOB 7/18/06
5. Josephine Gay DOB 12/11/05
6. Ana M. Marquez-Greene DOB 4/4/06
7. Dylan Hockley DOB 3/8/06
8. Dawn Hocksprung DOB 6/28/65
9. Madeleine F Hsu DOB 7/10/06
10. Catherine V Hubbard DOB 6/8/06
11. Chase Kowalski DOB 10/31/05
12. Jesse Lewis DOB 6/30/06
13. James Mattioli DOB 3/22/06
14. Grace McDonnell DOB 11/4/05
15. Anne Marie Murphy DOB 7/25/60
16. Emilie Parker DOB 5/12/16
17. Jack Pinto DOB 5/06/06
18. Noah Pozner DOB 11/20/06
19. Caroline Previdi DOB 09/07/06
20. Jessica Rekos DOB 05/10/06
21 Avielle Richman DOB 10/17/06
22. Lauren Russeau DOB
23. Mary Sherlach DOB 02/11/56
24. Victoria Soto DOB 11/04/85
25. Benjamin Wheeler DOB 09/12/06
26. Allison N. Wyatt DOB 07/03/06

Church Search

My wife and I are in "active" mode to search for a new church. I have been going to the same church all my life. It is a traditional Lutheran Church. It is a place with the older members are afraid of change there are not many people that are in our age group that attend the church on a regular basis. The Rev that has been for about  is not very likeable and talks down to people.

My wife grew up in Lower Michigan and where Christian Reformed Churches were all over the place. Here is Wisconsin aka German Country there is not that many around of those kid of churches around here. I hope that the quest for a church starts on Sunday. It all.... well always depends on my wifes' mode in the morning. My wife is also under the impression to people should invite you to attend there church. I keep telling her that does not happen out here.

So if any of you can offer so advice or has gone through the same predicament shoot me a line or so.

Thank You

The Weird Weather and Christmas Shopping

I am not complaining that there is no slow on the ground "currently", it is Wisconsin after all and that can change in 5 minutes. With me submitting my shopping list to Amazon and they can take the needed funds from my credit card. This is the EARLIEST i have ever been accomplished my Christmas shopping. I give myself a pat on the back and you can give me one to if you would like.

I think that I have jinxed the winter weather with me buying a snowblower last fall. Thus far I have used it 1 time. It has been a great $500 investment.I think i better keep my mouth shut or the Good Man upstairs might make me eat my words.It is only the beginning of December and all my area has had for the puffy white stuff was a dusting. It is going with the temps reaching 50s this week.

I think that we Wisconsinites are going to PAY dearly for the mild and spoiling winter we had last year.

Lack of Reading

It looks like I am  not going to reach my goal of 25 books this year..:(( I have disappointed myself. I am not that sure why i was able to get to my goal. I think I know with the hectic life and working 12 hour days at times at the cheese mine. I think I am going to get audible. Has any of you looked into the service or have it?

How do some parents find the time read with kids? I try to read in bed, but I found out cluckers are not a good idea. Due to the fact, when I dose off I get a 5 lb book in the face. lol

E-Reader Thoughts

With the growing popularity of the Nook and Kindle. I have yet to make the plunge into acquiring one of these readers. My wife and I have talked about it, but that is as far as it has gotten thus far. My wife and i are both traditionalists. We love reading from a real book made of paper.

In my opinion, an electronic book would be beneficial for travel and such so I would not have to lug all my book with to the destination.  To me reading a regular book you can feel and character and history behind the book. It is like it comes to life in your hands. For the e-reader, you would not be able feel the pages within you fingers as you progress throughout the book.

So am I crazy to think like this? Am I alone in the world you E-Readers glare?

Red Dragon by Thomas Harris

Title:Red Dragon
Author:Thomas Harris
My rating: Back It Up

Summary:
A second family has been massacred by the terrifying serial killer the press has christened ?The Tooth Fairy.? Special Agent Jack Crawford turns to the one man who can help restart a failed investigation?Will Graham. Graham is the greatest profiler the FBI ever had, but the physical and mental scars of capturing Hannibal Lecter have caused Graham to go into early retirement. Now, Graham must turn to Lecter for help.

My Thoughts 

I bought this book right around the remake of the book was release in theaters. I am not sure what took me THIS long to finally sit down and read this masterpiece. I figured that it was Halloween season, so it would be the perfect time to read Red Dragon. You have to remember this was well before the CSI's and L&O's were all over the TV schedules.

The plot surrounds the investigation of a brutal serial killer known as the Tooth Fairy.n order to catch the killer, FBI detective Will Graham must think like a killer with the help of Hannibal Lector. The person Graham helped send away.I love how you are instead the head of Graham and the Tooth Fairy throughout the book.

Harris does a wonderful job showing how the Tooth Fairy ended up this way from the hands is cruel grandmother. After read this book I was in aww after what she did to him as a child and messing with him.

Thomas Harris wants the reader to have more the more that read throughout this book. I recommend this to to anyone that loves suspense of a real manhunt. If you scare easily, refrain from reading this late at night in a dark lonely house:)

Star Wars Episode 7?

When I heard that Disney bought the rights to LucasFilm. Then the news all over Nerdville brought that there will be a release of another Star Wars movie. It is going to be a sequel to the original trilogy. So it going to be interesting to see what they do for casting option in the feet of Han, Luke and Leia.

I have been hearing rumors that it will not based off the books or graphic novels. I just wonder where the Disney Company is going to take u in the Star Wars Universe. 

I will say that I am kind of excited to see that there will be a new motion picture  in the series. I just hope that do not make a bomb. It is going to be a while until its 2015 projected release.

What are your thoughts of this news??

Stroke of 10- Spooktoberfest

I decided to take be a part of a flash fiction contest for my favorite holiday.  He is a link to the rules that one of the wonderful hosts posted.I did have fun writing my story:) Enjoy.

As the bubbling white foam what boiling over for the rue from the cauldron that an old and hunchbacked man was looking over it with diligence. He was making sure that everything was set for tonight, it is Halloween after all. He was a lonely man living in Randleton, MA. 

He said to his calico cat,”This is a Halloween that nobody is town will ever forget.” He carved a dozen jack-o-lanterns with the finest razor that he could find. He made some elaborate faces that anyone would be aww struck to see. 

Inside the dark damp house, it has not been dusted is years or maybe decades. There were co-webs hanging from every corner of the house. The old broken down man had to add one more incident to complete the potion that would take over this town. The last incident can be added at the stroke of 10 o’clock AM.

He adjusted his spectacles while he looked at his pocket watch. It is 957, so he figured to get a key ingredient for the potion.

Hestepped up his ladder to his cupboard and reached ion the door. He pulled out a bottle.He looked at his and read the letter. "Yep it is the right stuff" he said out loud. I was vodka.. It was the perfect why to release his ghost and demons on such a great day. Who doesn't like a great mixed drink for the holidays. 

Then tonight he will be see the kids being accompanied by their parent(s) in sight of some candy or some tricks.

Legos Anyone?

You know what those are? You have to remember getting talked to about picking up ALL the pieces especially when or mom or dad steps on a piece in the middle of the night.

I was looking on Gizmodo and saw that there is going to be Hobbit themed Lego sets. Here is a pic of one of the set:

This one is going to be the more expensive set at $100.00. There are other sets available that will not kill your pocketbook. The set should be out by time the first part of The Hobbit hit theaters in December. You cannot tell me that you do not think that this sweet.

Canning Frenzy

I cannot believe that our canning season is almost coming to a close for us. Who knows what else we may stumble across.The taste of freshness of summer/fall will be achieved throughout the cold Wisconsin winter as well.

Here is our tally thus far:
5 pints of jalapeno jelly
40 quarts of tomatos
2 quarts of tomato sauce
22 quarts of apple sauce 4 flavors(plain, blueberry, strawberry, and cinnamon spice) ....

we are also canning some pear butter for some friends

We are getting more tomatoes from some friends.Our shelf in the basement/cellar is getting pretty full. It is better that than the freezer.

Do any of you can, if so what do you process??

Tis The Season

Hannibal Lecter (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For me my favorite holiday is Halloween. It is fast approaching..:)) I decided to FINALLY start reading the Hannibal Lecter  series. I am not sure how long it will take me to get through the series. I am currently reading Red Dragon. I am also planning on watching all the movies after I read each book. I have seen all the movies, just an FYI

 If any of you out there in the blogosphere would like to join me, just give me a shout out.

And be grateful. Our scars have the power to remind us that the past was real.

Library Book Sale

This past weekend, it was DairyFest, in my neck of the woods.It is Wisconsin after all you have to get cheese involved one way or another. The library also has its annul book sale. I had to resist and by ONLY two books this year, because I did not want to over do it....this year like last year.:))

My gems that I found were:

The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood 

My grand total came to a mere $.75 cents. Of course my wife and Aquagirl did get book as well;) I hope that I can get to these soon. It is always sad to see library book that have no more room on the shelf. I always hope that the books find a great home.

So what are your thoughts of my selections??

Is It Saturday Yet?

Who here is stoked about Saturday. People might asked what is so special about Saturday...ummm September 1st....hmmmmm. It is the season premier of Doctor Who. Here is what we Wholigans will be looking forward to watch for the first episode this season:

Kidnapped by his oldest foe, the Doctor is forced on an impossible mission – to a place even the Daleks are too terrified to enter… the Asylum. A planetary prison confining the most terrifying and insane of their kind, the Doctor and the Ponds must find an escape route. But with Amy and Rory‘s relationship in meltdown, and an army of mad Daleks closing in, it is up to the Doctor to save their lives, as well as the Pond’s marriage.

Yes , I am constantly called a dork by Mrs.GD. I am proud and embracing watching Docor Who with Aquagirl, but she is only two. I hope that someday she thanks me for exposing her to show like Doctor Who and Firefly.

So do you have any plans for the season premier??

  

Out and About

I have been being mean to my poor little blog. It has been CRAZZZY this past month or so. I have been SLOWLY making my way though Game of Thrones by George RR Martin. I have my brothers' "wedding" going up next week, in which I will be standing up in on Friday. This is summer, it seems like there is alwys something going on every weekend.

Some other news this is my wife's first week watching kids. We are both happy that she is able to do this now. She was miserable at her job, but now she is able to spend more time with Aquagirl..:))

AudioFiles: The Color of Magic

Title:The Color of Magic
Author: Terry Pratchett
My rating: Save It

Summary: This title, which launched the legendary Discworld series, introduces the tourist Twoflower and his wizard guide, Rincewind. Part of a reissue of the first three Discworld books, this novel includes an overview of the fantasy land, with a map, visitor's guide, and Pratchett crossword puzzle.

My Thoughts: 
I was ready for a fun read and Terry Pratchett did the trick for me. I have read a couple of his later books, such as The Wee Free Men (Discworld, #30) and that was flipping hilarious. I decided to get back into the series and start from the beginning. Pratchett it seems that is publishing book left and right. You just never know what is going to be around the corner next for our guide.

The only complaint that I have about the book that it is a little slow paced, but yet again what fantasy book isn't slow paced. The author has to bring you into his mad world after all.

In the book,Rincewind as he is unwantingly roped into guiding the clueless tourist Twoflower along with the ever faithful Luggage around the flat, disc-shaped world.The discworld a world balanced on the backs of four elephants which, in turn, stand on the back of a giant turtle, Great A'Tuin. It is interesting to say the least. This is a world where the gods gamble to decide the fates of the world and the ever-present Death, efficiently "collecting" unfortunate souls is one of my favourite characters ever.

I will be checking out the next book of the series.

Olympic Parents

 I have been watching so much of the coverage of the Olympics. This is still a clip that sticks in my head. Just think of all the countless hours and money spent driving your child(ren) to practice and meets and it all comes down to one shot in the big dance.

Would you be excited...HELL YA! Above is a clip of Aly Raisman's parents cheering her on with her routine on the uneven bars. To me this is how parents should be and not be afraid to show thier support for thier child.

I just wonder how much will I embarrass AquaGirl when she starts get more infovoled in extracurricular activities. 

Redshirts by John Scalzi

Redshirts by John Scalzi
My rating: Save It
How I Acquired It: Library

Summary:
Ensign Andrew Dahl has just been assigned to the Universal Union Capital Ship "Intrepid," flagship of the Universal Union since the year 2456. It's a prestige posting, and Andrew is thrilled all the more to be assigned to the ship's Xenobiology laboratory. Life couldn't be better...until Andrew begins to pick up on the fact that (1) every Away Mission involves some kind of lethal confrontation with alien forces, (2) the ship's captain, its chief science officer, and the handsome Lieutenant Kerensky always survive these confrontations, and (3) at least one low-ranked crew member is, sadly, always killed.

Not surprisingly, a great deal of energy below decks is expended on avoiding, at all costs, being assigned to an Away Mission. Then Andrew stumbles on information that completely transforms his and his colleagues' understanding of what the starship "Intrepid "really is...and offers them a crazy, high-risk chance to save their own live.

My Thoughts:

I grew up watching Star Trek:TOS and watching TNG every night. Back then it was like what Law and Order or CSI is today. I did not know anything about this book until I read some of the reviews of some of the blogging buddies.

After I go into this one there was no putting it down. It did read like a Trek episode.THis book brought me back to where some mind-boggling creaures were lurking around the counter when crew member went on Away Missions. In REDSHIRTS follows Andy Dahl, recently assigned to the starship Intrepid. Dahl quickly begins to realize that there is something peculiar about the ship’s away missions – the captain, the science officer, and other select crew members always live even despite apparently insurmountable odds while the poor ensign (or more) dies. But the truth about this strange "coincidence" is stranger than the "coincidence" itself.

This book is a laugh-out book. It seemed that this book had great humor throughout this adventure as well as some interesting twists.

If you have read this book what were your thoughts?

AudioFiles: Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
by Seth Grahame-Smith
My rating: Back It Up
Acquired: Library

I will admit this is my first monster mash-up that I have ever read. I have not seen the movie yet. I will wait to see it when it comes out on DVD.This sure was interesting to see how Grahame-Smith incorporated Lincoln's real-life events/tragedies with his war against the Vampires.He also made it sound plausible with the writing style that he used throughout the book as well.  This is so much better with all the other Twilight copycats that have been coming out in an alarming rate.

The book is built on the premise that Lincoln kept a series of secret journals over his lifetime chronicling his life-long battle against the dark forces of vampires, including their role in the Civil War and the perpetuation of slavery. I wish that there would have been more Vampire hunting in the book. 

While, I found that the premise of this book fun and I enjoyed listening to this book to and from work. If you are look for a book that is both a learning experience and yet a fantasy, then this book would be for you. 

Poetry Project-July

I decided to join the Poety revamp that is being hosted by  Kailana and Leslie.So I decided to give this project a whirl and plus I would lke to get more into it as well.This clip about is perfect from the Dead Poets Society if you ever saw the movie, if not you should.

Here are some questions for the first month.
Why do you want to join for the Poetry Project?
 I wanted to try something new and I sawthe Poetry revamp post. I thought that I really do not know much at all about poetry, so I figured why not learn more about. I think that this project would be a great way to get me started.

Do you have a favourite poet?
 I will say that my favo(u)rite is Edgar Allan Poe.I have been a prince of horror and gothic writings as long as i can remember. Poe's writings I have always been drawn to. My runner up in Walt Whitman,  I know Walt is a cop out. I hope to find more throughout this project.Whitman is what you think of when you hear the word poetry.

Hopefully this will go longer than a year. Do you have any suggestions for themes?
I think that it would be great to read poems from various centuries and/or decades.I also would like to ventures into some sci-fi/fantasy poetry as well. I am hoping that there will be more to come after this year of the project.

What are your experiences with poetry in the past? Have they been positive or negative?
Well, when I actually sat down to read some poetry the experiences are usually positive.  

Tell us about a poem or poet that has had a profound effect on you. If you can't think of a poem, how about a song? Or a line from a story? 
I will have to go with good 'ol Poe on this one. It is one of the first poems I can remember, The Raven. I like the way that Poe has the ability to send chills up your spine.

What frustrates you about poetry or the way we talk about poetry?
After reading a poem and wondering what they heck the poets was talking about.  I read it again and still wonder what they were trying to get across. 

Tell us something about yourself that has nothing to do with poetry!

I am a Viking fan living in Packer country.....I also like the Ravens what a shocker.
I love speding as much time as I can with my little 2 year old minion.

Happy 4th of July

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
My rating: Save It
Published: 1996

This is my first experience by Gaiman and I sure did like this book. I started this book as a group read lead by Carl over at  Stainless Steel Droppings, but as usual the distraction called life prevailed.I think that it was even better listening to the author reading his own masterpiece. I do recommend that everyone listen to the audiobook and you will not regret it.

This book took a week or so longer than expect, because I could not listen to the book going to work. This was due to the fact that my muffler rusted off from the exhaust. Thus, it sounds like a Harley was in my backseat. I could not get much from listening to the radio. 

I like it that Gaiman put a normal man Richard Mayhew stuck in the middle of his magical world(London Below) and he was thrust ed in this world after a meeting a bloodied girl, Door on the street. I think that there are few people that cannot relate throughout this journey of London Below. Gaiman did a great job putting the reading in the shoes of Richard, because the reader was thinking what Richard is thinking at that moment. I am thinking WOW this was his first novel.

I am glad that I read this book; I have been a fan of the dark arts for quite a while. It was a big thanks to Tim Burton movie and no I cannot choose which one.I love this gothic style of writing it was a painting f charters throughout wanting me to get some more.

After reading this piece if work, I think that I am going to be reading some more Gaiman. After reading this book, I wonder if there is a London Below in other towns and cities or maybe your town. Well..it is a thought.

Rise of the Guardians Trailer

 If it was not for Andrew I would not have heard of this Dream Works movie that is set to come out around November. I will say that it looks like a good one to see in theatres. It has been a WHILE I have been excited about a movie coming out. It has been remakes and/or ideas done visited over and over again.

Here is the idea of the movie:

When an evil spirit known as Pitch lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians(Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, The Sandman, Tooth Fairy, Jack Frost) must join forces for the first time to protect the hopes, beliefs and imagination of children all over the world.

This looks like a movie that people of all ages will love.

Going to Be Full

I am not that sure what we are getting ourselves in for.We volunteered to watch my cousins' their 3 boys ages(5,3,1) this weekend.Their mommy was Aquagirl's sitter for the first year. I am glad that for our sanity that they are good kid. Well...the middle one can be a monster sometimes, but Aquagirl and him play together just fine.


So by the calculations we have 2 kids per adult. It is going to be an interesting weekend. We have never experience the amount of minions sleeping over night. My wife of course will be worrying, but I think everything should go just fine. It is going to be quite an adventure this weekend.

AudioFiles: Explosive Eighteen by Janet Evanovich

Title:Explosive Eighteen
 Author: Janet Evanovich
Series: Stephanie Plum #18
My rating: Back It Up

Summary:
Before Stephanie can even step foot off Flight 127 from Hawaii to Newark, she’s knee deep in trouble. Her dream vacation turned into a nightmare, she’s flying back to New Jersey solo, and someone who sounds like Sasquatch is snoring in row 22. Worse still, her seatmate never returned to the plane after the L.A. layover. Now he’s dead, in a garbage can, waiting for curbside pickup. His killer could be anyone. The FBI, the fake FBI, and guns-for-hire are all looking for a photograph the dead man was supposed to be carrying.

Only one other person has seen the missing photograph—Stephanie Plum. Now she’s the target, and she doesn’t intend to end up in a garbage can. With the help of an FBI sketch artist Stephanie re-creates the person in the photo. Unfortunately the first sketch turns out to look like Tom Cruise, and the second sketch like Ashton Kutcher. Until Stephanie can improve her descriptive skills, she’ll need to watch her back.

Over at the Bail Bonds Agency it’s business as usual—until the bonds bus serving as Vinnie’s temporary HQ goes up in smoke, Stephanie’s wheelman, Lula, falls in love with their “largest” FTA yet, lifetime arch nemesis Joyce Barnhardt moves into Stephanie’s apartment, and everyone wants to know what happened in Hawaii?!
 
Morelli, Trenton’s hottest cop, isn’t talking about Hawaii. Ranger, the man of mystery, isn’t talking about Hawaii.  And all Stephanie is willing to say about her Hawaiian vacation is . . . It’s complicated.

My Thoughts:

I enjoyed this book just like I have enjoyed all the others. I find them entertaining and laugh out loud funny. These books show some of us that there can people that are more dysfunctional than ourselves. You cannot have a Stephanie Plum Novel without somebody trying to kill her right.

My wife and I listened to this one while going through the Upper Michigan and beyond. My wife and I agree that she needs to choose between the men that is "involved" with in her life.

I will say that this one has been better than the past couple of Stephanie Plum books. Now it is the waiting game for when the next book comes out and who knows when that will be happening.

MIA

I am going to be MIA until Tuesday. The Geeky family will be going to downstate Michigan to visit Mrs. GD's family. They are having a Family Reunion this weekend. So we figured, why not take the 7 hour drive this week for it.

We are probably going to be arriving about 2 in the AM, because we are leaving after I get out of work. I will be staring some of the moment that we have visting family and of course the road trip. Have a great week everyone.

Leviathan (Leviathan, #1)by Scott Westerfeld

Title:Leviathan
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Series: :Leviathan
My rating: Delete It

Summary:Prince Aleksander, would-be heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, is on the run. His own people have turned on him. His title is worthless. All he has is a battletorn war machine and a loyal crew of men.

Deryn Sharp is a commoner, disguised as a boy in the British Air Service. She's a brilliant airman. But her secret is in constant danger of being discovered.

With World War I brewing, Alek and Deryn's paths cross in the most unexpected way…taking them on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure that will change both their lives forever.

My Thoughts:
I have been wanting to read this book for quite some time now. I finally decided to so it. I am not that sure what it was, but the book was not that enjoyable as I was expecting.

The characterization and narrative go, there is not much here that will surprise or challenge the reader...but the novel does have charm, lots of it. Don't expect to get your mind blown, but it is certainly a pleasant way to spend a few hours. I gave it 3 stars based on the illustrations throughout the book are fantastic.

It sure was different with sides Darwinist vs Clankers in the makings of WWI. An organic ship or machinery or a mechanical one.hmmm. I am thinking that this type of steampunk is not for me.

If you read this book, what were your thoughts of this work?

Neverwhere Read-along Part1

 I decided to join in a read-along that Carl V., over at Stainless Steel Droppings, is host this month. So when Carl decided to host a Group Read with Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere, so I figured i would join considering that this book has been on my TBR pile.It is sure is an interesting book, but it is Gaiman after all.

Each week question will be answered by the people part taking in the read-along and I know I am a bit late on mine.

1.  What do you think of our two villains thus far, Messrs. Croup and Vandemar?


Mister Croup and Mister Vandemar are ruthless, lethal and DO NOT waste their time to take care of business.The conversations between this two is quite interesting and knowinf some of the diaaters that they singly handled caused.

2.  Thus far we've had a small taste of London Below and of the people who inhabit it.  What do you think of this world, this space that lies within or somewhat overlaps the space the "real world" occupies?


So far there is nothing that really stands out or is unique about London Below(LB). The Rat Kingdom is different with the inhabitants in the LB society. I think that it was funny that Richard found the rat that he shoed away earlier in the book.

The Rat speakers are like their rat lords capitalize on opportunity like each Richard's food and such.

3.  What ideas or themes are you seeing in these first 5 chapters of Neverwhere?  Are there any that you are particularly drawn to?

I just wonder what else is going to go wrong for Richard. Since saving and meet Door his life has been turned upside down. After this event, he does not exist in London Above. I wonder if he will become a member of Below society.

4.  We've met a number of secondary characters in the novel, who has grabbed your attention and why?

  Anathsesia was a character that grabbed my attention. The way that Gaiman build a wonderful, yet fascinating character is a few pages.To miss a character after just meeting her is a testament on how great he can make them in limited words. Plus, the name is very memorable as well.

5.  As you consider the Floating Market, what kind of things does your imagination conjure up? What would you hope to find, or what would you be looking for, at the Market?

The Floating Market is like a jack of all trades for markets. Growing up I went to quite a few Flea Markets but the difference is that the Floating Market moves from place to place like a circus.I can imagine finding finding anything magic related at the markets and a lot of the dark arts that Snape from Harry Potter would have loved to get his hands on.


6.  If you haven't already answered it in the questions above, what are your overall impressions of the book to this point?

I am glad that I joined the read-along and I am loving everything about this book. It is a Tim Butron-esqe type of an atmosphere, in which I love. 

AquaGirl's birthday and more...

It has been a crazy this past week. On Sunday, we(the wife ans I) celebrated Aquagirl's 2nd birthday. I still cannot believe that it has been 2 years already. People are correct that the time sure does FLY by. It was geat to have some family and close friends over for my munchkins big day.

She received plenty of clothes and toys to annoy us and yes I know for a fact some of the gifts were pay back..lol. All in all it was a great party and the princess of the hour had a great one. I cannot believe how fast a clean house can go to a messed up on is 3 hours.

The other thing that has occupied my week as well has been watching Season 1 of Game of Thrones. If you have seen this series it is to be watched when little munchkins and young eye are hiding. I do not have HBO;so the waiting over 2 months to see this series since the library got into the system.

I will be waiting impatiently for Season 2. I am hooked to the series and no not because of some of the naughty scenes..lol. Crowning up I have always like the sword fighting and knight like a Arthurian era.I have not read any of the books are Martians work as good as the movie?

Putting Scott Lynch On Hold

I am currently reading the second book of Scott Lynch's Red Seas Under Skies. Gentlemen Bastards series. I think that I am going to see if my library has it in audiobook. It just seems like I just do not have the time to sit down and actually read this book. I have to get it back to the library..:((

With summer right around the corner the garden NEEDS to get in and the busy season is upon us all..;) I am jealous of the people that can sit down and just read for hours without interruptions...I sure do miss those days..lol.

The Big Easy By Jasper Fforde

Title: The Big Over Easy
Author: Jasper Fforde
Series: Nursery Crimes #1
Rating: Save It

Synopsis: When Humpty Dumpty, local businessman and infamous lothario, is found dead beneath a wall outside his Grimm’s Road apartment, Detective Jack Spratt of the Reading (pronounced Redding) Nursery Crime Division (NCD) is called in to investigate.

My Thoughts:

This book was quite an interesting read to say the least. I think that I will be continuing on in the Nursery Crimes series. Jasper Fforde is just knows how to put the right blend of humors are serious content throughout this story.. His books are sorta like beach reads for book nerds. This book is great, but it took me a little bit to get into this book.

Inspector Jack Spratt is investigating the death of Humpty Dumpty found shattered to death near the wall he was sitting on in a bad part of town. Jack has lot of obstacles to face in this investigation including holding little respect as the lead detective for the Nursery Crime Division.

If you read the Nursery Rhymes, growing up you will LOVE the references throughout this book. If you want a light-heated murder mystery than this one is for you.

A to Z: Reflections

As everyone noticed that I participated in the A-Z Challenge in the month of April. My theme was Star Wars characters that were in the movies. I am glad to saw that I did not miss a single letter. During the challenge, it did get difficult, but I did have fun throughout the A-Z.



I was not entirely sure what to expect in the end. The hardest part of the challenge was the planning and the scheduling of the post for pretty much everyday of this month long event. The A-Z Challenge rewards were infinite. In the challenge there are so many bloggers doing either themes or whatever they felt like doing in that given day.

The new blogging friends that I met in the journey was great. Many of you helped me get through this journey and I would like to say THANK YOU.I am happy that many of enjoyed my posts as well as I enjoyed many of yours.

I hope that you liked the clip above. Have a great and geeky filled day..:)

May the Fourth Be With You

I hope that everyone is having a great Star Wars Day. So do you have any plans for this special Day. I am going to watch some of the SW movies today.

May the Force Be with you.!

IWG-Writing Twice As Long

The Insecure Writer's Support Group is hosted by the Ninja Master, Alex J Cavanaugh. I am FINALLY admitting I am a writer and I going to voice my very own insecurities.
Firstly, I'd just like to say congrats to everyone who completed the A-Z Challenge, and well done to everyone who participated and followed along the way as well.

Yes, I am finally confessing to the public...well as public as this gets to whom that will hover over and take a gander at this post.

The issue that I suffer the most from is what I call is word jumbling. I have a "disorder" when I am writing not all the words that are going through my head do not end up on the paper. I read it and it make no sense:((So I figured on picking MY BIGGEST insecurity for my first post for the group.

When I finish writing my story. I have go through it plenty of times to make sure I want it say what I meant it to.  I will continue to walk toward  my dream of being an author some day.

Do you know where I am coming from?

Z is For...

I cannot believe that month of April has come to a close. We are now to the letter Z and that stands for Zett Jukassa.

Zett was a Padawan serving the Jedi Order and the Galactic Republic in the final days of both institutions. Apprenticed to Jedi Master Mierme Unill at the start of the Clone Wars, he was reassigned to Temple battlemaster Cin Drallig following Unill's death. Jukassa was stationed at the Coruscant Jedi Temple with Drallig when the ancient edifice was invaded by the Grand Army of the Republic under the orders of the Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. Fleeing the Temple, Jukassa was shot and killed by clone troopers in front of Senator Bail Organa.

He was  possessed a strong connection to the Force and was gifted in the rare ability of farsight. One of the Jedi Temple's most promising students, Jukassa put up a valiant defense during the raid on the Jedi Temple.

Some information about the actor who played Zett was  Jett Lucas, son of George Lucas.

Do you have any memories of Zett or is this new information?

Y is For...

We are to the letter Y for the A to Z Challenge. I bet you know whom I selected that is correct Y is for Yoda.

 "Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you? Hmm? Hmm. And well you should not. For my ally is the Force, and a powerful ally it is."

Yoda was one of the most renowned and powerful Jedi Masters in galactic history. He was known for his legendary wisdom, mastery of the Force and skills in lightsaber combat. Yoda served as a member of the Jedi High Council in the last centuries of the Galactic Republic and reigned as Grand Master of the Jedi Order before, during and after the devastating Clone Wars. Following the Battle of Geonosis, Yoda held the title of Master of the Order in addition to that of Grand Master. In his centuries of service to the galaxy and the Force, Grand Master Yoda had a hand in the training of nearly all the Jedi in the Order.

Though arguably the Order's greatest master of the Force and most skilled warrior, Yoda believed most firmly in the importance of instructing younger generations and never missed an opportunity to ensure his students learn from their experiences.

The Grand Master was among the few Jedi to survive the Emperor's  Great Jedi Purge, after the beginning of which, he went into exile on the swamp planet of Dagobah. The exiled Jedi Master was responsible for the instruction of Luke Skywalker who would use Yoda's training as a basis for the creation of a New Jedi Order.

Can you even imagine living for 900 years? Do you have any thoughts of Yoda?

Harry Potter Was In the House

If any of you follow me on twitter, you may have notice mt account was erupting with NFL-related tweets.I am sorry. I am the most loyal Vikings fan that lives in Wisconsin. I was reading the NFL website this morning and saw something interesting.

Harry Potter, aka Daniel Radcliffe, was in attendance for the draft last night.
Our in-house spies told us Radcliffe is an avid NFL fan who has become borderline obsessed with the game. While he's still learning the game, Radcliffe is a big New York Giants fan who always has wanted to come to the draft.
This probably won't come as a surprise, but Harry Potter is a big-time fantasy (football) guy.

I wonder if he approved of the Giants selection.  Did he get there by broom or through the ever so convenient Floo Network?

X is For...

For the A to Z Challenge, we are up to the letter X and that stands for....X-Wing Starfighter.

Who did not want an X-Wing Fighter growing up? Please raise your hands.That is good so did I.

The X-wing was the primary all-purpose starfighter of the Rebel Alliance and its successor governments. Known for its versatility and exceptional combat performance, it was a favorite with Rebel and New Republic pilots. Possessing deflector shields, a hyperdrive, an R2 astromech for repairs and navigation, and a complement of proton torpedoes, the X-wing allowed the Rebellion to launch raids in Imperial space with improved odds of a successful mission.
The X-wing played a major role in the Galactic Civil War following its capture on Fresia and the defection of its designers to the Alliance. It was most heralded as the fighter that destroyed the Death Star at the hands of Luke Skywalker. Later in the war, it would form the backbone of the Alliance Starfighter Corps, defending Alliance ships and leading attacks on Imperial vessels and installations. Most importantly, it could perform on near equal terms with the Empire's high-performance TIE fighters when handled by an experienced pilot.

 After seeing this clip from A New Hope, what are your thoughts of the X-wing fighter?

W is For...

With the letter at W now I cannot believe that April is almost over..WOAH. In my section for the letter W is going to be Watto. 

junk dealer/human trafficker, who owned a shop in Mos Espa, Tatooine. In his youth, he served as a soldier in the Ossiki Confederacy Army on his homeworld of Toydaria, but later left after sustaining permanently damaging injuries. Making his way to Tatooine, he fell in with the Jawa natives of the planet, and learned how to trade from them. Once he felt he had learned all he could, he abandoned the Jawas, and set up Watto's Shop in Mos Espa. He became one of Tatooine's many slave owners, and made a lucrative business for himself.

Eventually, he came into possession of a young slave, Anakin Skywalker, who proved to be a gifted mechanic, and an invaluable asset to the running of the store. Soon enough, Watto discovered that the boy had an affinity for podracing. Watto would often bet on the podraces, and was an avid fan, so he had Anakin race for him in several tournaments. Although the boy never won, he was clearly gifted. During one particular race, Anakin destroyed Watto's own podracer, which incurred the Toydarian's wrath. Shortly thereafter, a stranger to Mos Espa, Qui-Gon Jinn, claimed that he had his own podracer, and that he wanted Anakin to fly it in the Boonta Eve Classic. Watto conceded to the deal, but decided to bet against Anakin, instead investing in the Dug Sebulba. Jinn took the bet, wagering the pod against Anakin's freedom. Ultimately, Anakin won the race, and Watto was left with very little. His business declined, and he eventually had to sell Anakin's mother, Shmi Skywalker. Watto stayed in business until the Galactic Civil War, when he handed over ownership of his shop to his assistant, W. Wald. 

Did you dislike him in the movies or see him as a businessman?

V is For..

We are now at the letter V for the A to Z Challenge. I thought about doing Darth Vader for this post, but I decided to so something else. V is for Vader's Fist. 

You maybe asking what the heck does this mean. It was the nickname given to the 501st Legion of clone troopers commissioned by Supreme Chancellor Palpatine during the Clone Wars that later became a stormtrooper unit. Made up of units like Torrent Company, the 501st fought in many battles, such as the Battle of Teth and the Battle of Coruscant, becoming one of the most well-known legions. The 501st became Darth Vader's personal unit as he led them during Operation: Knightfall, in which the clones helped take down the Jedi, whom they believed to be traitors to the Republic.

This group was like the Navy Seals of the Empires Army. 

Would you join Vader's Fist, if he wanted you??

U is For...

In the continuation of the A to Z Challenge in my post today. We are to the letter U and that stands for Luminara Unduli. 

There are not that many characters in the Star Wars Universe that start with the letter U. So therefore, I had to do some digging around. She was uncredited the Revenge of the Sith, so not a big role in the movie. 

Luminara Unduli was a female who served as a Jedi Master and Senior Jedi General in the fading years of the Galactic Republic. She was a valued adviser to the Jedi High Council, the Supreme Chancellor, and the Galactic Senate. During the Clone Wars, she fought with her last Padawan, Barriss Offee, and she was a common and formidable presence at points of crisis, on worlds such as Ilum, Nadiem, and Geonosis. She was killed during the Battle of Kashyyyk when Contingency Order 66 was enacted.


She was also said to be amazing at lightsaber combat, but she had also trained herself to become so incredibly flexible that she could easily twist to evade almost any attack that she did not block with her green lightsaber.

I am just wondering, do you know anything else about her?

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Title: The Lies of Locke Lamora

Author: Scott Lynch

Series:Gentlemen Bastards Book #1

Format: Paperback

Genre: Fantasy

Year:2007

Acquired:Library

Ranking: Back It Up

Summary: An orphan’s life is harsh–and often short–in the island city of Camorr, built on the ruins of a mysterious alien race. But born with a quick wit and a gift for thieving, Locke Lamora has dodged both death and slavery, only to fall into the hands of an eyeless priest known as Chains–a man who is neither blind nor a priest. A con artist of extraordinary talent, Chains passes his skills on to his carefully selected “family” of orphans–a group known as the Gentlemen Bastards. Under his tutelage, Locke grows to lead the Bastards, delightedly pulling off one outrageous confidence game after another. Soon he is infamous as the Thorn of Camorr, and no wealthy noble is safe from his sting.

Passing themselves off as petty thieves, the brilliant Locke and his tightly knit band of light-fingered brothers have fooled even the criminal underworld’s most feared ruler, Capa Barsavi. But there is someone in the shadows more powerful–and more ambitious–than Locke has yet imagined.

Known as the Gray King, he is slowly killing Capa Barsavi’s most trusted men–and using Locke as a pawn in his plot to take control of Camorr’s underworld. With a bloody coup under way threatening to destroy everyone and everything that holds meaning in his mercenary life, Locke vows to beat the Gray King at his own brutal game–or die trying.…(Good Reads)
___


My Thoughts:

One of my friends has been head over heels for Scott Lynch since reading this book. Then I decided to join her read-along that she ran the last month or so. Due to real-life constraints, I had to bow out of the read-a-long. I sure am glad that I stuck with the The Lies of Locke Lamora.


In the book it is fast paced throughout. You just never know what twist or turn going to happen on the next page. I do guarantee that it will keep you(the reader) up in the wee hours of the night,while reading it under your bed sheet....people still do that right. 

The liked the way that Scott Lynch build the world of  Camoor. It struck such a strong resemblance to Venice, Italy.  Lynch gives you information about the world throughout the book, but wanting to learn more about this deep book. For example, The city-state of Camorr is built on the ruins of some ancient civilization known as the Eldren. Lynch does not go into terrible detail about the Elren. I am hoping to learn more in his upcoming books.

The dialogue throughout this book is also something you just do not forget. You could swear the Lynch has been in jail a time or to with some of the lines he writes in the book.  You the reader will be laughing out  loud before you realize it. Especially, with Locke's sarcasm is what get me  much of the time.

I did like the way that Locke does seek revenge on the Gray King. I think you will as well.

Scott Lynch has me sold and roped into his world. Now I am going to be starting his next book, Red Seas in the Red Skies.His book structure is different as well, he what is happening now and then the next chapter is a flashback of the past. It did not disrupt the pace of the book whatsoever.I HIGHLY Recommend this book to you. So please drop everything you are doing and do find this book ASAP.

I cannot say enough about this book, so I  am going to end my review before the internet crashes..lol.