PASS!

 No I didn't read the book in one day. I cracked open the first chapter, flipped through the next 100 pages and put it up. 

It's entirely in 1st person. The most hated writing style for me. I can't stand it. 

Sure I endure it for the classics. Frankenstein, Dracula, Last of the Mohicans, Sherlock Holmes, Jekyll and Hyde, etc. But in modern day writing? It feels SO MUCH like bad fan fiction. 

I can't explain it, but it's true. It grates on my last nerve to find a book written like that today. 80% of Star Wars fan fiction I read back in the day was in first person and I believe because it's the laziest way to write a novel these days. Like you're reading someone's journal. BOR-RING. 

Too bad. I really wanted to know what was in this. Maybe I'll look up a review online and get the cliff notes that way. but one thing's for sure, this book is NOT for me. 

I got better things to do with my time.  

Crisis on Infinite Earths

It's been a while since I've read this series. But since someone let me borrow a copy of the book Marv Wolfman wrote decades later, I wanted to re-read this classic before seeing what the novel held in store. 

This is a wild ride. About half the heroes I'd never heard of before. I'm sure the made up a few but also went through their entire lineup of heroes in the process too. 

Peacemaker (who is now famous) has a small role in this. I didn't know who he was last time I read it and now (since all the movies and tv shows) it's crazy to think how popular he's grown in the past 40 years. 

The story is a convoluted mess though. I couldn't understand why exactly Anti-Monitor was such a threat or where he got his powers from. Or the whole business with how the dimensions worked, but entertaining enough. 

This is the series where they killed off the original Supergirl (then replaced her with an alien clone in the comic) and most notably, Barry Allen the original Flash. Which is one of the rare permanent choices they ever made, as Wally West is still known as the Flash today. 

Overall, not bad. I'm hoping the book can connect the dots a little better and flesh out the story more. 

We shall see....
 

Monsters (comic)

Ok, I've only read the first issue but I'm hooked. 

It's about a monster hunter, who comes out of retirement in the 80s to defeat all the classic monsters of the time. (and even some newer ones from 80s movies)

It's pretty good. My buddy collects them for the covers but never read them. He had doubles of a few issues which is how I got to read the first one. Now I'm going to ask if I can borrow the rest and read what's come out so far. 

Honestly, these covers are beautiful. But the story is interesting too. The artwork is fantastic and the art certainly gets room to breathe on the page as the dialogue for each panel isn't that long. 

I like the format, but will the series hold up as a whole? We shall see...
 

TI4 (game #2)

 

Just like every twilight imperium game before it you never think how much better it can get until you play again.

This had to be the most amazing game I've played in quite some time. For the second time only I was able to open the fractured void and get in it. It took me two rounds to finally capture a planet and that's when I realized the entire void is just a giant red herring.

Sure the planets are very powerful granting you a relic along with other super abilities (in my case a victory point) but by the time everything was said and done the leader had 6 victory points to my 2. Since all my energy was focused on taking over a planet in the void I was losing out on points.

Sure this is only my personal opinion but I wouldn't put it past this game to keep putting up shiny trinkets in front of the player's eyes that make them lose focus on scoring victory points.

It was at this time I realized the game was really out of my hands.

Yet as any experienced player knows….never give up hope, you just don't know what might happen.

Well during one of the agenda phases an opportunity presented itself as I was the speaker about to break up a tied vote on which planet would be demilitarized. One of them was Mecatol Rex Which would essentially give that player the planet indefinitely throughout the rest of the game.

A very powerful vote. And as we know with very powerful votes come very powerful deals.

My plan was simple give him my deciding vote and have him keep Rex for the rest of the game thereby almost assuring him the win. In exchange he would give me support for the throne. Afterwards my goal would be to paint him as the front runner and try to make it close enough to convince the other players to give me support for the throne in the end thereby beating him the last moment.

And that's exactly what happened. But it wasn't as easy as you would think.

First off my nephew was (rightfully) against the deal in the first place and argued against it vehemently.  He almost convinced the guy until I finally one out with a better argument showing him how he could easily win the game.

Once the deal was made I slowly gathered enough points to get within striking distance and when the final round happened he was sitting on Rex with strategy card 8 in his hand ready to end the game on his turn.

Then I struck my plan.

Gathering the other players I asked one of them to remove all his fleet from his home planet so that I could take it thereby completing a secret mission and then the other players giving me support for the throne right after that so I would be crowned the winner and literally steal victory from the other guy.

And because that guy was so arrogant as to ask if we wanted it to go another round or not since he was “obviously going to win” it cheesed the other players off enough that I knew I could convince them to give me the victory. And hand me that victory they did.

It was a master stroke in negotiations. Definitely a game for the ages. As each one of the players were pointing fingers at each other at whose fault this all was while I sat back with a smile on my face and the crown of champion upon my head.

What a great game…  

Happy Labor Day

 If I'm not playing board games today, it's been a waste of day. 

That's all I'm saying. 

The Last Battle

At last I've finished the series!

What did I think of The Last Battle?

Very depressing. 

Seriously, why have I never noticed what a downer this book is??

The narrator let's you know by the second chapter that these are the final days of Narnia. (um, spoilers??)

But why say that? How about we find that out towards the end?? What's the point in telling us that now? So when every chapter shows things in Narnia getting worse (talking animals slaughter, the land overrun with the enemy, a Centaur saying doom and destruction is coming to Narnia) the reader has ZERO hope things will get better because the book told you the end days were coming at the beginning of the book. 

SPOILERS!!!!

And I still don't know how I missed the fact that the kids were dead at the end of the book, which is why they are all gathered in Narnia. Wild. So they never got "called" into the land as in previous novels, but died and were sent there after death. (GRIM)

Yes, in the end, everyone goes to NEW Narnia and lives happily ever after, yet it's really too late at that moment because you've been reading the entire novel, knowing everything is coming to a crummy ending. But yet the last 2 chapters everything is happy again, so we're supposed to be happy too?? I don't get it. 

So here's my final ranking:

1) Voyage of the Dawn Treader

2) Silver Chair

3) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

4) The Magician's Newphew

5) A Horse and His Boy

6) The Last Battle

7) Prince Caspian - (only because of it's slow start in the first half of the book)

And there you go! 

Overall, I'd say it's worth reading. I'll be reading it again in the next 7-8 years I'm sure. Maybe sooner if my kids are old enough to LISTEN while I read. 

I first tried reading these to them and it was a disaster. No one can sit still in bed. So after 2 chapters, I gave up and starting reading them on my own. And I'm glad I did. It was worth it. 

Have a good weekend folks!
 

Hwy Traffic jam

 This isn't a picture of Monroe. But it could be. I don't know what the heck is going on, but since last year it's taking me almost twice the original time to get home these days. 

Not sure if that's because Meta now has a site (an hour away) or what, but traffic is the WORST these days. And at least twice a week there's a wreck at the SAME EXACT SPOT. It's like everyone forgot how to drive. 

I know it's some moron looking at their phone instead of the road and slamming into the car in front of them. Every time I pass the wreck, I see it. Someone hit someone else's car from behind, causes a jam on the highway. 

I know, I know, this is nothing compared to bigger cities but still... it irks me. 

And I'm getting old. 

And I like to complain about these things. 

And whenever I go to the bathroom in the middle of the night I always pass gas when I get back in bed. 

I have no idea why, but it's true. 

Anyway....traffic sucks. 

The Silver Chair (review)

 

As I've said, it's been a while since I've read these. I'm finding I like them even more than I expected I would. 

In fact, this may be 2nd on my "favorite" list of them. I love Puddleglum. He's the perfect character for such an adventure. Always negative and such a downer on the group, yet serves up some humorous moments during the adventure. 

I remember watching the BBC version of this years later when I moved to Monroe. I never even knew it existed until visiting our local ibrary here and seeing the series on VHS. When I was a kid, we must've watched the first 3 series hundreds of times but they didn't have the Silver Chair. And in the days before the internet, how could I have known this even existed??

But wow, what a great book. Can't wait to get to the final book in the series now!

Traffic Light Removal

Driving down a street I haven't been on in a while and noticed something amazing. They got rid of a traffic light that has been there for 36 years. 

I was shocked. 

It was in a terrible location where there's hardly ever any traffic, yet you have to sit there and wait for....no one until the light turns green. I always found it to be a waste of time, I have no idea who put it up or how long it's been up there (it was there when I arrived in 1989) But I'm SOOO happy somebody finally had the brains to say "Hey, this light is useless"

Great choice. 

There's a few more in town that make no sense either that I hope they take down soon. I'm also a fan of round-abouts, yet a bunch of idiot drivers here have no idea how to maneuver around them, so I doubt those will ever be popular here. 

Either way, kudos to the city of Monroe for taking a step in the right directions (though it probably took over 40 years to do) 
 

Voyage of the Dawn Treader

 

My favorite book in the series and it still doesn't disappoint. There's an adventure in every chapter as Prince Caspian, Edmund, Lucy and their cousin Eustace, search for the lost 7 Lords of Narnia. Really beautiful ending too. 

Everything about this book is classic CS Lewis. Not sure how the rest of the novels will stack up after this one but I'll be interested to find out. 

They've made a movie and a BBC show about this one too. For the life of me, I have no recollection of the movie yet the BBC series was fun. I'd like to watch them again someday. Maybe after I'm done with all these, I will. 

On to the Silver Chair!

Evil Dead Burn (review)

 Is there really a point to making these without Bruce Campbell? 

I watched it. It's ok, for a horror movie. Gruesome for sure. Pays homage to the original (like it should) it even throws a callback to Evil Dead: Rise, though I believe it was more for fun than to establish continuity between the movies. 

It's just feels like a lot of the same. The original movie was different for one big reason few movies dare do today. Tricking you into who the main hero will be. 

These days, it's ALWAYS the "final girl" and has been for decades. What about having a guy survive this time? Too unique I guess? I'm not sure but you'd think someone in Hollywood would give it a shot at this point. 

Either way, the movie was just ok. If you're a horror or Evil Dead fan, you'll think it's ok. If you're not either....avoid watching the movie entirely. 

Have a good weekend folks!

Prince Caspian (Review)

Time for another review. The next book in the series doesn't do much to excite people trying to make this into a movie. Mainly because not much happens in it. 

The kids get called back to Narnia, find out they've been gone for centuries and make their way to assist Prince Caspian in taking back his rightful claim as King of Narnia. There is a battle at the end but the rest of it is dialogue and a journey. 

Oh and there's actually a werwolf in this too, which I somehow forgot all about. 

Overall, a fine tale. Not my favorite, but I'd still put it over "A Horse and His Boy" 

Next up is my favorite book in the series. Can't wait to review it!

 

Blue Bunny Pistachio

 

In my quest to find the best tasting version of this flavor I've tumbled upon Blue Bunny.

Oh man...it's excellent. WAY BETTER that Hagen-Das. This stuff is top shelf! I don't think I'll even give the Breyers brand a try because this one is soft, smooth and packed with flavor. 

I think I've found my champion. All hail Blue Bunny!

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (book review)

Finished the first and more popular book published in the Narnia series. What can I say? It's a classic. Non-stop action for kids to enjoy. The story never slows down and is over before you know it. I'm knocking these down in a couple days each. Fast, easy, enjoyable reads. 

I still think about the BBC series as being the most true to the books. Whenever I think of the characters in my head that's who they look like. Though I have noticed CS Lewis probably didn't spend as much time world building as Tolkien did for his world. Mythical beast are thrown into the novel but not really fleshed out beyond just having them named. 

Other than that, very enjoyable read. Looking forward to taking the rest of these out in the next week or so. 
 

Lucky Energy Drink Review

 Saw this at Walmart the other day and couldn't resist trying something new. 

I regret it. 

This worthless swill isn't worth the price of the recycled can it came in. Weak, bland taste, no identity and belongs gathering dust on a Dollar Tree shelf than any any self-respecting store. 

And to think, for 50 cents more I could've been enjoying a top shelf Ghost energy drink instead. (tsk, tsk)

The Magician's Nephew (review)

After many years, I decided to go ahead and give these a re-read, this time in Chronological order. I've never liked reading it this way, but rather in publication order. But this time I decided I'd try it out. 

Not bad. I've read the books so many times, who cares what order I read it in now I guess. 

This book still has the magic that captured me when I was a kid. The origin or the witch, the Lamp Post and the wardrobe are all explained. As is the creation of Narnia. It's a wonderful simple children's story that's still enjoyable today. 

I have no idea Netflix is making a movie about this in 2027. I'm both excited and afraid. In my opinion, the BBC did it best with the first 4 books of the series. I hardly remember the chaotic new series that came out year ago and are buried in the past, forgotten by most. 

But these days, I don't trust anyone to respect the books when making a motion picture. Everything has to have more adventure and excitement in it. I highly doubt the movie will focus on 2 kids, going into another world, ringing a bell that awakens a witch, who follows them back to earth and then again to the creation of Narnia, without so much as a battle taking place is movie material. 

But yes, when it comes out I'll have to give it a try. They've never made a movie about this ever, so seeing some concept of the story brought to life would be interesting. 

Have a good weekend folks!
 

Mechanical Pencils

I hate these things. Never liked them. Don't even know why the exist today. 

They never work right. The led is brittle and breaks easily. It slides right out of the bottom too fast and too long. Constantly chipping. Then you have to buy refills that cost almost as much as buying a new pencil. 

What's the point?? Why not just get a regular pencil instead? Wouldn't that work better??

Whenever I find one around the house it's instantly trashed. I'm guessing the girls get them as gifts and guess what?? They're always out of led when I pick them up. Who knew right?

Total waste of existence, these things.  
 

Big League Chew

Honestly, is there a bubble gum better than this?? 

No. There isn't. 

Super soft. Blows great bubbles. Taste last forever. It's top shelf bubble gum. 

I always looked up to it as a kid. When playing baseball, you were the coolest if you had this. SOOOOOO good. Just bought a packet the other day. Loved every shred. And they have other flavors too. I've tried them all but nothing beats the original. 

Fun fact, last Christmas they had a peppermint flavor I tried. Too strong a peppermint taste for me, but I applaud them for trying. 

Other solid flavors? Green Apple, Blue Raspberry and Grape. All good stuff. 
 

Take a bath

 

It's time for a "hot take" folks!

Why do fat people NEVER bathe??

I've noticed this a lot lately. 

I have a friend who comes over every so often, tells me he's going to shower and be right over. Yet when he arrives, I've noticed he's only changed his clothes and stinks to high heaven. 

Last month at the theater, I was in a show where the fat people stunk so bad I had to hold my breath every time I walked by. Honestly, the funk coming off them was horrendous. I wish the director had said something....anything....to get them to bathe. 

Maybe it's not every huge person but geez to frag does it irk me. What's so hard about jumping in a shower? I can take one in 5 to 10 minutes easy. Why can't they??? What's so bad about pouring water, soap and rinsing that they just can't stand?

Ok rant over. Moving on.

Haagen-Dazs

 I getting old and soft as I age. 

I've heard this is the "best ice cream ever", made with the best ingredients and carries the mark of "super premium" in the ice cream market.

I even got my favorite flavor "pistachio almond" to see if there really is a difference. 

Final Verdict: It's fine. It didn't knock my socks off and I think I've had just as good from other companies. Would I give them a 2nd try? Maybe. But what one pint cost, I could get a whole lot more from other brands, so I can't say it'll be anytime soon. 

I go for blue bell, a the walmart brand of butter pecan is always welcome at my house.  

Backrooms (Review)

 I've been waiting to see this movie for quite some time. 

It's about a man struggling through a recent divorce while working at a failing furniture store. One day he comes across an endless maze of backrooms hidden behind a wall in the basement of his store. What does it all mean?? 

You have to decide. 

No really. It leaves things up to the viewer to decide what the heck is going on. 

And I don't mind that. 

I found this movie interesting and very depicting of what a bad dream would look like. Where something  in this endless maze is trying to kill you as you try to find a way to escape. Really enjoyable. Worth your time. 

Don't need a sequel, one movie is good enough. 

Have a good weekend folks!

BJ's Pizza

I few weeks ago, I visited a friend in Alexandria who was visiting from Branson, MO. On the way back up I stopped at an old favorite of mine to see if they were as good as I had remembered. 

BJ Pizza was located in West Monroe 25 years ago and every Friday I would go clean up their buffet. It was my favorite pizza.

Legend has it, that BJ and Johnny (of Johnny's Pizza fame) were actually partners who split up. In the agreement Johnny promised never to expand into Rapids Parish where BJ lived. To this day there isn't a Johnny's located within the parish. 

BJ taste similar to Johnny's but their sauce and toppings, are way better. (in my opinion) And yes, I had it and it still holds up as one of the best pizza's I've ever had. 

Happy I got to see my friend (it's been 18 years) and very happy I got to eat at BJs again. (again, 18 years)

Worth the trip. 
 

Shipwrecked: nightmare at Sea (review)

 I love me a good documentary flick. And Netflix delivered with this true story of a ship which sank right off the port of Italy.

It was the fault of an unqualified crew and stubborn (and cowardly) captain, which sank the ship and cost the lives of 30 something people aboard. 

The amazing thing is, someone at the time of the ship sinking, filmed almost the whole thing as it was happening. Bet he had no idea how much money he'd get from Netflix years later for the rights to use the footage in their film. Worth it too, because you get to see footage of what was going on at the time. 

Wild story. Worth a watch if you're interested in that sort of thing. 

Nos: Grand Prix Guava

 Not really a fan of this brand, but when I was on the road a few weeks ago and saw 2 for 1 at the gas station I decided why not. 

Blah! Taste a lot like watermelon, which I hate. I remember Bang energy had a Purple Guava Pear flavor I didn't think was that bad but this one flat our sucks. 

Nos is the drink, I'll get when there's no other good choices around. But really not a favorite of mine. I just can't help myself, whenever I see a new flavor I guess. I'm a sucker for getting these all the time. 

Maybe one day I'll learn to only stick with Ghost. Yet, on the other hand...I'm always looking for someone to not the king off his throne. 

The Furious (review)

 I'd heard this was the next evolution in martial art films. The trailer looked impressive. So I decided to give it a try. 

Boo. 

Too story driven. Very slow at parts. Usually, I don't mind the story, but this one was so weak I had no interest in it at all. Sure, the actions scenes are fun, but when you have to wait 30 minutes in-between scenes, you quickly come to realize this movie isn't worth your time. 

Sad because I've been looking for a revival in martial art films too. Gone are the days when we had Jackie Chan movies to look forward too!

Is it worth it? (Part 15)

 Topic: Veggie Garden

Ok, time to wind this conversation down. And for that, we head back outside, one final time. 

Pros: All the fresh veggies you can eat. Fresh veggies are the best. Fact. 

Cons: Work, work and more work. Again, it may be nice, but you have to put a lot in to get a lot out. 

Verdict: Yes. Hook me up. We had one growing up and I loved it. 

What would I grow?

Squash, green beans, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage and egg plant. Does corn grow in Louisiana? If so, add that too. I LOVE fresh veggies. This has WAY more of a payoff than a flower garden to me. It'd be hard work yes. But if I had help getting it started, I'd follow through taking care of it, just to reap the benefits. YUM!

Ok folks, that's it. No more. Change of topic(s) next week, I promise. 

Tootles. 

Is it worth it? (Part 14)

 Topic: Home Theater

Ok...I'm breaking format here. Who am I kidding. Where is the "con" here people? My man Mikey had one at his house and it was a lovely thing to behold. The only reason Wrestlemania was special to me was because I had the honor of his company, watching it on his amazing screen and surround sound. Complete heaven.

Before he took it down, I had SOOOO many movies I wanted to watch there. But alas, time got away from me (as it often does) and I was never able to make the plans to watch anything while he had it up. I miss it. I wish I had one. I know the top movies I'd watch. 

1) Star Wars Trilogy (OG)

2) Jurassic Park Trilogy (screw Jurassic World)

3) Godzilla Minus One (and even the 90s version which I love so very much)

Plus tons of movies from the 80s and 90s as well. Who wouldn't want to see a life size Wolfman get kicked in the nards? Am I right??? 

Is it worth it? (Part 13)

Topic: Flower garden

Time to head back to the great outdoors today and consider if this is worth it. 

Pros: Your yard looks amazing and is the envy of the neighborhood. The local newspaper probably even comes by and takes a picture of it. Or you send one in for a competition that you're always going to win. As we said in the 90s "I'm not gay but..." flowers are pretty and they smell good too. 

Cons: Work, work, work. Yes, they look nice. But there's a reason. This becomes the sole core of your life. People poor endless hours into these gardens and have little time for anything else. 

Verdict: Nope. Not worth all the work that goes into it. Sorry. I'll take pictures and compliment you on yours but the only thing that'll be growing in my backyard (and saying that is not gay) is weeds and grass. Now leave me alone and let me shop for scented candles at Bath and Body Works!! 

Ok, that last line was a little gay, I'll give you that. (also its true, man I love me a scented candle...and the annual candle sale IS my Black Friday make no doubt about it)

I digress....
 

Is it worth it? (Part 12)

Topic: Home Gym

Pros: You have no excuse NOT to work out. No more "it's too cold" or "It's too late" or "It's raining" or "I just killed a hooker and now I don't know where to bury her body or what to do with her pet cat" NO excuses. You'd always have a home gym right there in your house.

Cons: I'd sure that floor is going to take a beating if you're throwing around weights in there. Plus I'm sure the sweat would give off an awful funky smell over time. Also I have to think about any incidents involving kids, so there's that. 

Verdict: Oh heck yeah! All day! I'll find a place to hide the dead hooker later, I'm going to pump some iron baby!!! I'd have a treadmill, elliptical, dumb bells and one of those all-in-one sets that have a bench, shoulders and legs workout on them. It would totally rock.  
 

Is it worth it? (Part 11)

 Ok, how many weeks can I keep this up? Here goes...

Topic: Hedge Maze

Pros: Get lost for hours, find the center, where's there a fountain, or pool or minotaur with an axe ready to chop your head off. 

Cons: Can you imagine the upkeep on this thing?? Geez to frag, I bet you'd have to trim it every month at least. Plus, can someone say bees?? I bet this thing would get infested with wasps and hornet's nests in no time flat. And who wants to be pulling weeds all day long? PLUS after a few days, wouldn't you and anyone who came over, know how to walk through the maze? You'd have to uproot, replant and change the maze every 2 months at the most to make it challenging. And who'd want to do all that??

Verdict: I would. Bring it. Yes. I want one. (with a minotaur carrying an axe ready to chop your head off when you reach the center) 

Phorm: Screamin' Eagle

 The name alone made me buy it. 

Same price as Ghost. Not bad. But drink it cold. Not very good when it loses it's cool. (literally) Does it replace Ghost? 

No. But I wouldn't mind getting another one every now and again. Been a while since I've said that, so it's quite the compliment for an energy drink. 

Is it worth getting? (Part 10)

Today's topic: Secret panel (room)

Pros: You can have a spare bedroom or game room hidden away, without anyone knowing it was even there. 

Cons: There are no cons, are you kidding me??? This thing would be pretty sweet!!

Verdict: Go back and look at the cons.

I'd love this so much. Mine would be a bookshelf and a book you'd pull to release the latch that lets you into the room. It'd be super cool. I saw a house that had a "secret" panel door that lead to a large closet. I say "secret" because everyone knew about it, but still I always thought it was super cool. And my sister has a hidden panel that opens up from the hallway straight into the kitchen. Why? I don't know, that house was built in the 60s and even has a "courtyard" that the house surrounds in the center. (odd but kinda cool) 

Oh geez... I lied. I just thought of several other cool things to talk about, so I'll be back at this next week. 

Chow. 
 

Is it worth getting? (Part 9)

 Today's topic: Gazebo

Time to get out of the bathroom and back outside (nature's other place boys call "bathroom") for this edition of "Is it worth it?"

Pros: Nice to sit outside and chill. But in Louisiana you better get a net to block mosquitoes or you'll never use it. 

Cons: It's hot as balls here in Louisiana. Would I even use it this much??

Verdict: Shockingly....yeah. I think I would. I mean, add a space heater in the winter a few tower fans in the shower and NEVER draw back the netting and I think it wouldn't be so bad. I don't even need a pool either. I think it'd be nice. Sure I wouldn't use it much but who cares? Sometimes outside time is just fun. 

Ok, one more tomorrow and I'm done. I promise.  

Is it worth getting? (Part 8)

Today's Topic: Bath tub

Ok, yesterday I spoke about the new showers they have in homes these days, it's only fair I speak about the comeback bath tubs are making these days. You know, the nice stand alone ones that we see in horror movies all the time but doesn't stop people from adding them inside their homes?

Pros: Always good to soak in a tub. Especially when you're sick. Heck, for the longest that was the only way you ever caught me in a bathtub as an adult. A hot bath always feels good before bed. 

Cons: Who the frag uses a bath tub these days??

Verdict: Pass. Yeah, they're nice when you're sick but that's the only time I'd use it, plus with the time it takes to run one, I don't even think I'd use it much in that case either. Just stand in the shower a little longer watching my 12 inch dong cry because it hates being sick too. (yes I know that's just water running down it, but I can't help but think that way every time I'm sick) So it's a hard no for me.

 

Is it worth getting? (Part 7)

Today's topic: Redesigned shower

Showers don't look like they used to when I was a kid. Now people are getting huge spacious showers, some with a bench. Who the smurf wants to sit down in the smurfing shower???

Pros: Lots of space and those newer shower heads are amaze-balls. 

Cons: Is there a bad thing for being too big? (that's what she said) I feel it's be a little too much for the limited space that already comes with bathrooms these days. Do you really want a shower taking up that much space?

Verdict: Yes. Yes I do. I'll take the bench too, wouldn't use it but who cares? There'd be plenty of space for it. Yeah, I'm in.  
 

Is it worth getting? (Part 6)

 Welcome back to another week of "Is it worth it?" Where I weigh out the pros and cons of "upgrades" around the home and let you know if I think it's worth it?

Today's topic: Hot Tub

Pros: GREAT for winter time. I remember my uncle had one and we would all get in during the winter. Wonderful. Nothing like cold shoulders and a warm lower body. Also, they feel very relaxing and I can only imagine what happens when I throw a bath bomb or cup of Mr Bubbles in it. 

Cons: Slight risk with kids. Some upkeep too.

Verdict: Worth it. Dad would be over every night if I got one too. He LOVES hot tubs and could stay in them for hours. So having Dad around the house most nights would be cool too. I'm all in on this one boys. 

Is it worth getting? (Part 5)

 Today's topic: Solar Panels

Are they worth it?

Saving money on the electricity bills is always a nice thing. Lower bills for cooling and hearing the house. What could go wrong with that?

However....my buddy Bruce got some on one of his homes years ago and told me they suck. Because the time you spend the most electricity is at night time when you're home. Hence he never saw that much of a savings. Plus, the amount of money they cost to install far outweighs the savings you'll make off them. And the battery that stores electricity for you in the day time? Total crap he said. 

So on this one it's a pass as well. 

That's all for now folks. See you next week! 

Is it worth getting? (Part 4)

 Today's topic: Guest House

Is it worth it?

Oh my...an extra place for guests to stay when they visit. (I'm looking at you Johnny Step) Plus a man-cave as I would move my game room over there. Entertain guest with food from the mini-kitchen inside and also have a "quiet space" for when I need to get away from the house. 

However...this (again) means higher bills. Plus upkeep. And....aw who am I kidding? YES!!! ALL DAY!!! I'd build one of these in a heartbeat if I won the lottery. (mini-lottery) So many reasons this would be super cool. So of course I'd be all for this one!

Is it worth getting? (Part 3)

 Today's topic: Pool

Is it worth it? 

Who wouldn't want a pool in the summer? Your house instantly becomes the "go to" spot for parties and get togethers. A pool is a great way to cool off and enjoy the summer. And do I even have to mention BBQ, pool and chill? Some of the best days of summer include those words. 

However...pools are expensive to keep up. You constantly have to have them cleaned. Also in my area, tress are everywhere which means it will constantly be plagued with leaves and pine needles every day. Cover it up in the summer, watch your home insurance surge, and also have the risk of little kids drowning if no one's paying attention. 

No thanks! Not for me! Even with grown kids and extra money to cover insurance, I'm not doing it. The keep up just wouldn't be worth it! PASS. All day. 

Is it worth getting? (Part 2)

 Today's topic: Converted Attic into living space. 

The plus? Easy. You get an extra room that can be used for anything. Extra bedroom, game room, slave chamber toy room, you name it. And more living space is always better around the house. 

However...it can led to higher electricity bills, especially since it's at the top of the house and heat rises. 

Final verdict? Worth it. 

I've imagined converting mine for years. But with 4 kids, it's hard to save up the money it'd take to convert. I wish I had the skill to do it myself, but alas, I am a moron when it comes to such things. So for now, it can only be a dream. 

Is it worth getting? (Part 1)

 Welcome to this week's topic, "Is it worth getting?" As I discuss "upgrades" around the home and ponder if they're worth getting or not. 

Our first topics: Pets

Are they worth it?

People love having pets. They become members of the family. They can be cute cuddly, give you lots of love, play time and lasting memories. 

However....they are expensive. Make a mess, smell (at times) and don't live that love, casting a dark cloud on the whole family for weeks (or months) after they're gone. 

My mom never got us any pets growing up because she knew she'd be the one eventually taking care of them. (which is true) To this day, I don't want them and don't think they're worth it. 

I don't mind animals. I'll sit and pet any that come up to me, but for me, it isn't worth it. 

On a side note, my brothers both have pets. Only my sister, 2 middle brothers and I do not. 

So in this case, it's a pass for me. 

See you tomorrow for the next topic. 

The Passenger (review)

 Wow. I didn't know they still made horrible movies like this anymore. 

The most generic, bland, forgettable, run-of-the-mill, movie you'd expected to see 10 years ago. 

The kind that made no sense the whole time. Where 2 people act so stupid about the whole situation, you'd wish they'd just both die. 

How dumb are they? The woman spots and interacts with the demon living in their car early in the film but decides to continue riding in the car in hopes of finding a way to get ride of the evil spirit.....right. 

She hides all the information she's found out about it until the end of the movie (where they can use it) when the whole time her boyfriend doesn't understand what's going on until the very end. 

SO BAD. 

What a waste of my time. 

Have a good weekend everyone!

Board game upgrade

 

Twilight Imperium is my favorite game ever. Having 3D printed trade tokens would be incredible to me. This is another one I haven't pulled the trigger on, but might one day. For the #1 game in my collection, I feel everything should be top notch!

Board game upgrades I need?

 

I have a game called "Spooktacular" which I love. the theme is you are in the year 1986, magic 80s lightening has struck the theater and all the movie monsters are chasing you around the theater for points. (you play as one of the monsters)

This upgrade from Etsy has mini LED lit screens to set the ambience of the game. I'll be honest...I'm tempted. If I had a game group that met regularly I'd buy it instantly. But since I don't have many who play with me anymore, I'm hesitant to pull the trigger.....but boy does it look beautful!

Jackson vs Prince Halftime Show

There's no doubt that these two are legends in the music industry. But who had the better halftime show? The question came up recently at work. I had never seen either performance because I never watch the Super Bowl. 

So I decided to watch them both and see. 

Michael: Wow. When he comes up out of the stage the crowd goes nuts for an entire minute as he stands there and does nothing but lets the crowd continue to cheer. Incredible command of the audience. He then goes into a rendition of some of his biggest hits and sets the stage on fire. But in the then it slows down with a full performance of Heal the World and drags in the end. 

Prince: It's raining and this guy is giving the performance of his life. He starts so strong, letting the audience know the rain is not going to stop him. Then he slows down a bit in the middle and the show starts to drag but my goodness did this man finish strong with Purple Rain (in the rain) and electrify the audience at the end. 

The winner? Off, this is tough. May have to hand it to Prince due to the strong finish. But it's certainly close. 
 

Gorilla Mind Energy Drink

 Heard a lot about this and decided to give it a try. Not bad. I tried the one featured above when it was on sale during Prime Days on Amazon. It was so-so. 

My buddy at work is a firm believer in the brand and brought me Blue Raspberry. It wasn't very good either. It's mediocre for me. I think I'll stick to Ghost. But I am glad I got to finally try it. 

Masters of the Universe (review)

 Never liked the cartoon. Never liked the character. Never bothered watching the old movie, or any other cartoon series, or read his comics. 

Loved this movie. 

So good. Shame it bombed in theaters. They did an excellent job entertaining people who care NOTHING for this IP. Too bad no one gave it a chance. 

Excellent film. 

Have a good weekend folks! 

Mcdonalds inside WalMart

 Remember the days when McDonald's operated inside of WalMart. It's wild, but the other day I was shopping inside our Super WalMart, I thought about that. I know exactly where it used ti be, located in the back. You could sit behind the little divider wall and order food, sit down and eat. Kinda crazy to think now. 

Their only traffic was people going to WalMart. Crazy, the deli doesn't have a place where you can sit down and eat food from their own store. I think it'd be bonkers crazy for them if they did. 

Anyway, just my random thought for the day. 

Vintage plastic dinosaurs

 

Playing dinosaurs with my little boy last week and it made me remember these plastic dinosaurs my parents bought me years ago that I LOVED playing with. 

I remember I'd put them on the coffee table with a crumpled piece of paper and play "dino hockey" with them. I don't know what possessed me to do that, but it was so much fun! 

Good memories can sometimes be with the simplest of toys. 

Bang: American Berry

 I'm not really sure why I keep trying these New Bang flavors anymore, but I couldn't help it with this one. It has the american flag on it, see?

Basically this is their old Bangster Berry flavor with a bitter taste. I liked Bangster Berry, it was a blueberry flavor but with the bitter twist in this can, it comes off as odd. 

Not their worst flavor they have out there but certainly not their best. Now that they discontinued the Sour Heads flavor, there's no longer a reason to buy these. I guess when the next new flavor comes around I won't be able to help myself, but until then, I'll stick to my Ghost.