TheRapidsBlog: Theme Parks, Entertainment, Steampunk, Second Life.

Kooky Canuck

2009-11-15T14:48:00.004-06:00

Every so often in my travels, both around town and around the states, I run across some fun and entertaining restaurants.

My latest discovery, by way of my girlfriend Kimberly, was Kooky Canuck, a downtown eatery in Memphis, Tennessee. Imagine a contemporary hunting lodge setting with light wood, complete with animal heads on the walls. Now throw in HUGE food portions and a sports bar atmosphere, and you have Kooky Canuck.

The first thing I liked was part of their drink menu, the "Bomb List". While admittedly a light-weight, this cleverly named menu gave me a laugh. Further reading of the regular menu showcased things like "The Avalanche" with 18 (yes you read that right) scoops of ice cream and lots of toppings. I opted for the Corn Brats (Bratwurst Corndog) and Buffalo Tenders. The former, though a wacky sounding combo, worked quite well. The mild Buffalo tenders were indeed tender and juicy with a subtle, yet kicky flavor. Both were filling and meals all to themselves. Did I mention these were just appetizers? Seriously, there is no such thing as a small portion in this place.

Megan, our server, took good care of us with a smile and a genuinely happy attitude. We appreciated the hospitality. Besides, we're easy going customers anyway.;)

If your travels take you to Memphis, Tennessee, (or you just love a good burger) stop into the Kooky Canuck downtown. Don't be a hoser, eh? (Sorry, had to do it.)

For more information, check out http://www.kookycanuck.com/.

Thank you Kooky Canuck! You all defintely Do Right. ;)

The Coaster Off Season

2009-11-09T07:58:00.002-06:00

There is a time every year that every theme park enthusiast dreads (unless you're fortunate enough to live Florida). While there are seemingly more park holiday events, there is still no escape from...The Coaster Off Season (dun dun duuuuunnnn!)

Yes, the coaster off season is a long, sometimes painful, space that sends the intrepid park enthusiast to Christmas events, like those at Dollywood, Hershey Park, or the recent Busch Gardens Williamsburg event. Pick any one of these and you'll see the die-hards bundled up, wind-chapped, and with snot frozen to their gleeful faces. Why? The park is still open, and it's more of a chance to ride this year. So what if it's bloody cold and you can't feel your feet!

Yep, now it's time for the obvious trip to Orlando, Florida (or Los Angeles, California.) Both locales offer parks open year round with various rides down at random times for scheduled maintenance.

While the above traditions are the norm, there are also some new traditions popping up to beat the post season coaster and park cravings. Winter has become a prime time to take a holiday cruise or head off to the nearest indoor water park resort. Case in point, The Coaster Crew, has a long standing tradition of going to Kalahari around New Years to have some fun, even in a few feet of snow. And with new resorts, like Wilderness At The Smokies, which opened in 2008, along with old favorites like most anything in Wisconsin Dells, there are plenty of choices. Even Bloomington, Minnesota has The Water Park of America near The Mall of America, home to Nick Universe, a mini golf course, and Underwater Adventures aquarium.

For something closer to home and on a tighter budget, Theme Park Review's "Coasters in the Raw" series offers terrific PoV (point of view) rides of new, old, and dismantled coasters. Robb Alvey and company have even made iPod friendly versions to carry with you on a trip. Between high quality and convenience, this coaster video series really is worth a look and another good way to span the off season. The "Coaster Expedition" and affiliate videos are also worth a good mention here. Mr. Alvey also has a way of throwing in fun extras when you least expect it.

Yes, the haunt season is squarely in the rear view mirror, and one can already smell the hot coco of the holiday events. Even so, there's still plenty of fun to be had and a few ways to ride out that long gap until spring. Then, coaster nirvana begins anew, punctuated with the smell of funnel cake.

Imagicopter Waypoint 6, Corinth, MS.

2009-11-07T12:27:00.001-06:00

Writers Workshop during the latest stop.

Disney Dream Cruise Ship to Launch in 2011

2009-11-02T14:38:00.002-06:00

Caught wind of Disney Dream, Disney's NEW cruise ship on Theme Park Review and had to mention it here. Can't wait to see this launch in 2011. Great post by the TPR folks! http://www.disneycruisenews.com/ContentDrillDown.aspx?DisplayItem=a6b91af4-5e35-4d43-9036-403363de0337

Some of the stand out goodies:

Princess themed restaurant with rotating booths
Andy's Room from Toy Story play area
Aquaduck WATER COASTER with impressive views
Virtual Portholes with Disney characters popping up from time to time

This will definitely be one to watch in the next few years.

70's African American Cinema

2009-11-01T16:54:00.002-06:00

Today, Kim and I watched The Black Godfather and Coffy. This was my first real experience with classic "Black-sploitation" films, other than the 80's spoof, I'm Gonna Get You Sucka. Needless to say this was a welcome lesson in culture for me, as well as an eye opener.

While we chuckled at the sometimes highly questionable 70's decor (anyone for huge crazy flower print kitchens with black and white tile floors?), it brought back some good memories of a simpler time in my life. I remembered the wood paneling in our family's house in Florida, my mom's pseudo-afro and, later pixie cut. I remember my dad's liesure suit along with the bright orange easy chair in the living room, right next to the octagonal dark wood table. Further memories of feathered haired neighbors dropping by, wearing high heeled, wood platform shoes and pants suits sprung to mind. Even our bright orange, lime green, bright yellow, pizza keeper made a guest appearence in my mind. That and macrome knitted hanging plant holders with big wooden beads. Yes, lots of crazy memories, but good ones.

Bottom line, I enjoyed watching The Black Godfather and got into the story. It was fun and engaging in it's own way. Some of the subtleties between the charactors and the underlying tone of the equality struggle spoke to me as well. One of my favorite parts was when a white rival gang boss is sitting on Big Nate's (who is African American) desk. Nate calmly says "...and speaking of change...chair" while pointing firmly to the empty seat. After a moment the other boss realizes his disrespectful mistake and sits down.

The Black Godfather made me interested in seeing other films, like the venerable Dolomite, or Willie Dynamite aka Gordon from Sesame Street. Just good 70's fun and a great way to spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon. Thank you to those filmakers!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T23:13:00.003-05:00

To all my friends and family out there, hope it's been a great Halloween filled with fun. Best wishes and as they say at Disney World, "Boo to YOU!" (Trust me, it's a good thing.)

Second Life_Chapter 30_Burning Life 2009

2009-10-26T22:46:00.005-05:00

This past weekend it was time once again for the Second Life answer to Burning Man. That's right friends and neighbors, it's Burning Life 2009.

This year's fest seemed to offer a lot more displays, creativity, and...well...some things you just can't describe. I saw everything from Star Trek odes, to Alice in Wonderland displays. Several of the sculptures were as tall as buildings and I even saw a few stages here and there. Was cool to see some other SL residents at a drum circle as well. I was asked to join, but just didn't have time. Too much to see and do.

As expected, lag was pretty high given the huge amount of animations concentrated in such a small area. Didn't make it to the grand finally, aka watching the big virtual wood sculpture flame up. Last year had so many people at that time, that the servers were shutting down or you couldn't log into the area at all.

Took lots of pictures for all to see and yes, we did see the return of last years flaming top hat along with a Burn The Man necklace from Roxx Mills. Thank you kindly for that gift! :)

If you're a Second Life resident, artistically inclined, or just curious, check out Burning Life.

Until next time!

Blogging Buffet & Nerdly News_October 2009

2009-10-23T15:20:00.003-05:00

Well gang, it's been an insanely busy time here at the blog. The past few months have been filled with book tour events, travel, and a heaping helping of World of Warcraft...and it's not slowing down any time soon!
* Congrats to the Imagicopter and Kerlak Publishing authors for their recent Award Nominee status. Very happy and proud for them. Glad to see everybody at the Jackson Mississippi event.
* I was recently made an admin for the Imagicopter Facebook page, further adding cred to to my Web/Programming resume. Thanks to the folks at Imagicopter for that and glad to help out.
* Working on about 4 different spare time writing projects as well as some Haiku. (Yes I DO have a little culture for those who have the nerve to act surprised). ;)
* Job hunt is still dismal. If it was a horse, I'd shoot it. Still retooling resume and trying to find the best way to package my skills. Anybody need a social media/web guy?
* Had a great time about a week and a half ago in Tunica, Mississippi. Kimberly and I did the Horshoe Casino buffet. Great atmosphere followed by casino hopping. We hit Horshoe, Sheraton, Goldstrike (Mississippi's tallest building, btw), Harrah's (with Dunkin Donuts!), and Bally's. Gambled about $22 and did pretty well for a first timer. Never gambled or set foot in a casino before. Hell, I'd go back for the buffets over the slots any day. ;) Got a nice pocket watch and some new travel magnets.
* Next year's con and events schedule is already stacking up. Lots to cover...and that's before any themepark stuff! Dates and times will be up once everything is finalized.
* This November will be a year since our most excellent Pigeon Forge Thanksgiving family vacation. What a great time, and once again, hats off to Pete Owens and company for a wonderful park in Dollywood.
* Been having a blast on World of Warcraft and chomping at the bit for Lich King and next year's Cataclysm. Wonderful creative stories, beautiful environments, and just really fun. Yep, WoW is about 90% of my Christmas list this year.
* Hope everybody at Coaster Crew and Theme Park Review had a great time on their respective Halloween Haunt trips. Hope to meet up in the next few years to share in the fun. There with you all in spirit.
* Gearing up to cover Burning Life (Second Life's answer to Burning Man Festival) again this year. Had a fun time last year and glad to do it again this year. Yes, we will see infamous flaming top hat return along with a cool Burn The Man necklace given to me by Roxx Mills. Thanks Roxx for thinking of me and it will also be a yearly event staple. :)
* Thanks once again to Angel Aristone of Six Flags for inviting me to the Blogger Conference Call. Pleased to be included and hope to do it again next year.

That's all for now. More adventures on the way!

Blogging Buffet & Nerdly News: WoW

2009-10-07T12:22:00.001-05:00

Random fun and goings on from the World of Warcraft (or my latest obsession). Fair warning, this is for the RPG (that's Role Playing Game, NOT Rocket Propelled Grenade) crowd, so it might not make much sense. It will, however, further comically cement my nerd status. So dig out your Pocky and 20-siders and have a laugh. ;)

* Met a rather friendly Troll on the boat to Auberdine. He waved and pointed at something off deck. Sine he was Horde and not Night Elf, I couldn't understand, but laughed anyway. About the time I changed out of Cat Travel Form, he leaned over from the side of his mount, and petted me. We both laughed. Troll exited the boat and was immediately chased by the dock sentinals.
* The Druid Starfire spell is so my friend and a wicked way to deal Independence Day style beatdown. Zap!
* Bought a companion Great Horned Owl in Darnassas a while back. While Hunters can tame and have attack pets, just thought it was cool to learn this. I'm on the hunt for similar follow pets, mainly for the novelty.
* After much scrounging, I finally earned and bought Basic Mount Riding. Also bought a Striped Dawnsaber (traditional Bengal Tiger) to ride. Rampage has already payed for himself in travel time and cool factor. Wish companion pet owl could be active while I'm mounted, but hey, who's complaining?
* Still have a handful of quests in Azuremyst and Bloodmyst to finish up. Draenei Land has been good to me, especially in the gear and stuff to sell department. Very happy with my "Armored Geta" and Draenei staff.
* Bloodmyst is a good place to pick up wool for the Gnome in Tinkertown at Iron Forge. Seems the Saytrs and Moonkin carry a decent amount.
* Brewfest is over, and places like Exodor just don't feel the same without bad Scottish brogues and cheesey festival music. Regardless, most entertaining add-on and loved the Goblin Mage joke.
* One of the funnier freebies aquired during battles here recently were "Pants of Power". Either cloth or leather armor with a plus to strength. Sold 'em. My pants needn't be THAT powerful.
* Liking the Greek and Roman style ruins of Dark Shore and southward. Something cool about aged white columns and green moss.
* Besides exploring and fun, the main goal is to up my faction status in order to learn and ride various mounts. Exalted is a loooooong way away however.

Hope you enjoyed the World of WarCrack..er...Warcraft report. Stay tuned for more adventures!

Aquarium: An Underwater Dining Adventure

2009-10-06T13:23:00.004-05:00

While in Nashville this past weekend, I finally got back to Aquarium: An Underwater Dining Adventure in Opry Mills mall. This place was a treat!

Honestly, I went in thinking "Great themeing and it'll have ho-hum food, since it's an atmosphere sort of thing." Well, it seems a slice of humble pie was served with the outstanding shrimp scampi. The food quality was on par with what one would expect from a nice dress-up quality restaurant. It was rich and flavorful and definitely not any of the discount produce or seafood. Both scampi and the shrimp and crab dip were well cooked. They were simply and elegantly displayed. Yes, I was wrong. Also felt bad for not wearing at least a suit coat to this place.

Our server was knowlegeable, friendly, and on the ball. We never had to hunt for him and our drinks never went past the halfway point. He also told us some fun facts about the aquarium in the center of the room. Seems their resident Guitar Fish (looks like a cross between a Shark and a Sting Ray) is named Gibson. Can you guess why? (Hint: A Gibson Guitar store is located in Opry Mills).

Ok, on to the terriffic themeing. To enter the restaurant, you pass through a small hall way with fish on all sides, just like in the larger aquariums. You might also see a diver doing various things while you wait to be seated. Besides the central aquarium, the whole room is made up like a sea cave. Blue lights give an ocean feel from depresisions in the ceiling as well as simple wall sconces. The carpet has an ocean bottom look to it with pictures of sand and coral. Fish-shaped pendant lights also hang from the ceiling. If you like themeing of any sort or things like Rainforest Cafe, you enjoy Aquarium as well.

For more information, head on over to: http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/aquariumnashville/

Thanks folks for a great meal and see you again next time I'm in town.

GMX Day 2

2009-10-04T00:27:00.002-05:00

Busy and good con day!

* Kerlak discovers Pocky...and raids the dealer room...repeatedly. Yours truly was blamed.
* Got a Jade necklace made by a Tibetan Tantric Buddhist.
* Saw a great Halo Cortana costume along with a female Klingon.
* Got my con photo done...in Neko ears and tale. Yep, only Neko guy at con and yes I got pictures for you all to laugh at. Had a great time and will do it again. Got petted on the head twice too.
* Filmed a short clip for Mage TV discussing my Steampunk costume and how it functions for fun and camera work.
* Attended a good Steampunk demo and panel thrown by the Apparition Abolishers. Nice job folks!
* Learned several new costume tricks including some creature effects. Very cool!
* Had dinner at Jack Daniel's restaurant in Opryland Hotel.
* Watched some wacky Nashville Burlesque group on public access.
* Stopped into the 501st Star Wars Cantina Party and witnessed Bar2D2. Knew only 1 person there but thanked the hosts just the same.

Things wrap up tomorrow and we head for home. Overall, a good 1st year con and a fun time. Those who bailed or didn't take a chance missed out. Hope GMX runs again in 2010!

Kerlak Publishing and Imagicopter @ GMX

2009-10-03T11:29:00.001-05:00

GMX Day 1

2009-10-03T00:18:00.001-05:00

General observations:
* Decent turnout of about 300 so far to kick off the con.
* Small dealer room, but great selection of Japanese/Asian Import Snacks. I had the Octopus flavored soda. No Neko gear thus far.
* Radison has a pretty hotel atrium with pool...and lots of steps and ramps.
* Rave party @ 11 pm had 3 people total in it.
* Saw the charity "slave" auction. Humorously, one of the Neko girls was wearing a Thunder Cats shirt. I've pulled the same gag in Second life. Nice!
* Seeing lots of 20 somethings and feeling a little old here.
* 1 confrimed Steampunk girl thus far. She bought a fetching Black Canary look-a-like for at least $45 in the slave auction. The guys sitting around her were drooling.
* Saw some poor little old lady trip over a wet floor sign. Told her I had the same trouble hitting my head getting into vans. She and her friends had a good laugh of that and seemed to feel better.
* Souvenir badge is a slap bracelet for access. Smart and fun idea there.
* More Opryland and hotel news tomorrow. Grizzly River Rampage still at Opry Mills. Fill dirt for bridge to center still in place. New fence up in that area. Seems like they cut down several trees along the interior rock line facing where Chaos used to be. No apparent start to long rumored demolition plans or construction on Opryland Hotel convention center expansion.
* More tomorrow!

Adventures in World of Warcraft

2009-10-01T19:29:00.003-05:00

In the past couple weeks, I've joined the ranks of 11 million + people playing World or Warcraft (Wow) for short. Highly addicting, vastly entertaining, full of adventure, and some very pretty simulated landscapes.

Before we go any further, I'm sure some of you are thinking "Get a life, get some sun, live in the now, come back to reality, etc." I offer you a more relatable perspective on this Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game (MMO RPG or just MMO). If you've ever read a REALLY good book that you just couldn't put down, full of plot twists, technical thinking, and the like, you'd be more inclined to play WoW than you might realize. There's really not that much difference between the two, other than WoW is a "book" of sorts visualized in 3D, complete with fantasy characters of all descriptions. As you read on, if you so choose, keep this frame of reference in mind.

The name of the game here is questing. You pick a race, a faction, and a class, and then you're given a backstory and some guidence after being tossed into the UBER-MASSIVE world...that is almost on it's fourth expansion. My character, for example, is a Night Elf, of The Alliance, and a Druid. Doesn't mean a hill of beans to you does it? Well, it will, because this is what defines you in the world and helps you become part of the ongoing story that has more heads than a Hydra. It also helps you relate to and quest with other users.

As you might guess, there are large quests and small ones, humerous ones, and some just really random weird ones. One of my faves thus far involved killing giant crabs on a beach and bringing back the meat for gumbo. The reward was the recipe, some coinage, and several bowls of said gumbo. Another classic was having to warn three groups of an inpending attack in under 12 minutes. The quest was called "The Kessel Run". You Star Wars fans will get a chuckle out of that just as I did.

Yes, there's a lot to like in this game. There are tons of quests, tons of various achievements that can be earned (join the Brew of the Month Club?!), lots of crazy weapons and armor, and, as said before, the landscapes. The realms truly have a beauty and creativity all their own. Large, Greek inspired cities like Darnassas and Stormwind will leave you standing in awe the first time you enter. You're greeted with epic giant statues and huge white marble columns among other things. Equally large tree creatures stand guard and lumber about. (Think Godzilla as city security here). Areas like The Burning Steppes are charred and desolate. The underground city of Iron Forge, complete with it's own tram system, is a jaw dropping monument to Dwarven engineering, (Stone and Steel, Stone and Steel...). Yes, my hearty old Dwarven comrades Gomar and Orar would be pleased, right down to their REALLY bad Scottish brogues. ;)

Since people are variable, you will have good and bad, just like with any group. I've experienced rude people who will walk right up in front of you while you're having a conversation with a shop keeper, instead of standing beside you and patiently waiting their turn. Others will find dumb reasons to laugh at you, or pester you about joining their guild so they can go buy some armor they just have to have. Others will be coming the opposite way and just run straight in to you instead of going around. Would these people walk square into someone in real life? No, because it would get them a beating and it's rude. So why do it in a game?

Now, on the flip side, I've also encountered some VERY COOL and GOOD people. Case in point, I was about to get the ultimate beat down in a fight, when I was suddenly healed. Back in the distance a Draenei Paladin had sent me a random blessing. Other passing Druids have also doled out boosters and help in not only good spirit, but in good gamership. I particularly like this tradition of random good will blessings, and have also done the same. Sometimes, in return, I've been given a boost, or a thank you. It's these kinds of moments that really make the WoW adventure that much more special.

There are also just some random funny things too. For example, I've seen a Druid, in Feral (bear) form, start dancing on a ship. There's a skittering turtle named Crusty Bob on the Azuremyst isle. I gave a saytr creature some pine cones and he turned into a frog. The other Night Elf looking on, got a laugh of that too. Then there are the VERY perky Gnomes, who'll say "My! You're a tall one!" while you converse with them.

Oh there's more. Much much more. Suffice to say, if you enjoy fantasy, adventure, good stories or intrigue, and the occasion pop culture reference, World of Warcraft truly is a fun experience. Have a look if you're so inclined. You might even bump into me (Grizzlyriver) somewhere along the way.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a big cat mount named Rampage to save for. :)

In Loving Memory of Ken Ochs

2009-09-26T07:07:00.005-05:00

One of my earliest and favorite adventures was with my Dad's cousins in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It was between 1980-83 at the annual street breakfast downtown. The local ranchers and business men held an annual cattle drive and fun camping trip into the mountains. They would kick it off by having an early morning breakfast on hay bails downtown, followed by a parade. Ken Ochs, was one of them.

Ken passed away this week and I wanted to share some memories of not only a relative I've come to respect, but a fellow adventurer.

Ken was a rancher in Gunnison, Colorado (the setting and real life town for the second AVP movie). Cattle was just one of his businesses. He and the other Ochs brothers had a variety of investments, including the old railroad depot downtown that houses Guiseppe's Old Depot Restaurant. Naturally, this was a regular gathering place for family and friends where Ken would tell funny stories at the head of the table as the freight trains rolled by. I always liked how the railway men used to call the depot ahead of time from the train and pick up a pizza from the restaurant as they passed through. I liked seeing the trains up close.

Ken and his wife Delores (Dee) had a home just as warm and inviting. Michael Garman sculptures depicting cowboys were scattered here and there. There was a saddle rack off to one side by the desk. There were also plenty of seats and couches for folks to sit and talk, some sporting Native American blankets. I played Atari 2600 for the first time in 1980, in that living room, and years later, would watch Ben Hur for the first time with Ken and Dee.

Ken was a spiritual man and, in his later years wrote and published a few books of poetry. Much of it was cowboy thoughts and musings, but all of it was from the heart. He took great joy in his writing, evening enclosing a bit of it in the annual Christmas letters.

My favorite memories of him were at the street breakfast. He let me ride with him in the parade one year and he had a little burlap sack full of candy for me. Somewhere, there's a picture of he and I by a horse, one that later would eat part of my straw cowboy hat. If anything, that day with him was a joy, one of many, and truly an adventure. I would think of him fondly years later when I took my own horsback ride. It was then I realized the joy he felt in riding, mixed with an indescribable serentiy.

A good man and fellow adventurer goes to rest now, to ride heaven's finest horses and travel it's beautiful landscape. I love you Uncle Ken, and thank you.

Second Life_Chapter 29_Renovations

2009-09-23T12:42:00.005-05:00

As you might have guessed here lately, my Second Life time has been pretty limited. However, I've still managed brief jaunts here and there, as well as using this virtual world as a sketchpad of sorts. Case in point, my dream home (aka the Florida contempo beach condo).

This time around I really hit a nice balance of minimalism, artistry, and function. Was able to find not only the pendant lights, but also a mini fridge and small kitchen island. No, you don't have to cook or even use the bathroom in Second Life (unless you REALLY want to), but if you are building a model, having these details helps, if not purely for asthetics. Details do make the difference and they can even give you a laugh. The afore mentioned mini fridge, is scripted to dispense drinks, food, and dessert. It also has a door that swings open. Yes, there's even a cold glass of milk if you want it. ;)

In more of "art immitates life immitates art", I did find some Real Life cat ears to go with my tiger tail for my steampunk costume. This, in a roundabout way, mirrors the goodies my avatar regularly sports during the off travel time. Hey, I'm a Neko fan who enjoys the occasional round of Sushi and got a kick out of Cats. Now if only my hair was as long and my abs as flat...

Travelwise, many of the places I used to go have shuttered or moved to different sims. This is why there's been a dryspell of inworld destinations. It's an unfortunate reminder of the current economy. Everyone is cutting back and saving where possible, and sometimes that means online life like Second Life. Hopefully we'll see a turnabout in both RL and SL in the coming months. It's a good bet we're all ready for something much better.

To end on a humorous upbeat, I recently started playing World of Warcraft. During one sleepless night, I decided to model one of the races, known as the Daenei. You guessed it. The costuming/themeing side kicked in and it was off to different inworld stores to find purple skin, satyr hooves, horns, and white eyes. The end result was a pretty good SL version of the WoW race. Leave it to insomniatic creativity to hit new levels of geekdom AND fuel further RL Steampunk and Ren Faire costume ideas. Indeed, so many ideas, so little budget and time.

Blogging Buffet and Nerdly News

2009-09-21T21:55:00.002-05:00

With so much going on of late, there just hasn't been time for dedicated stories, so here's the round robin of news whilest I prepare my soul for GMX (Geek Media Expo) in Nashville.

The big news of the time is a new Dell Inspiron 1545 laptop. Intended for forging a new programming career in Java (along with computer games to unwind) I'm happy for the most part. BIG let down that it won't run Oblivion as I'd hoped. Seems the video card has 32 megs of dedicated hardware memory and shares the rest with the 3 gig of onboard RAM. Oblivion just didn't like this, while both Morrowind and World of Warcraft run great. (Shrugs).
Yep, I'm on World of Warcraft as a L8 Night Elf Druid named...wait for it...Grizzlyriver. (Oh like you didn't see THAT coming!) Having fun exploring the realms and glad to have something else that Kimberly and I can enjoy together. She has a L9 Draenei Paladin...with pigtails, a mace, and hoofs. AND her name is Asyanatea (Asian Tea). Yep, WIN. ;)
Like a random loot blessing straight out of Morrowind, I lucked into a guy getting rid of several computer books at the local recycle bin. He let me pick through and take what I wanted. Got a couple books on Java programming as well as other topics that could prove very useful. Hello instant reference library! No kidding!
Added a Neko twist to my Steampunk persona, Otto Von Clank. Yep, tiger ears and a tail. Think Cats meets Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. Shout out to my Neko friends in Second Life and Real Life. =^.^=
On the theme park side of things, I was invited to a blogger conference call with Mark Shapiro this week. Up to now, I've been an enthusiast with a blog, not anything close to media or park industry person who would warrent such an invite. Needless to say, the validation is much appreciated. Conference call was supposed to happen monday, but had to be rescheduled. Hey, stuff happens.
Speaking of stuff happens, the car had a cracked radiator hose replaced and is back on the road. Seeing what it cost to replace said hose, it's clear I'm in the wrong business. Lol!
Kimberly and I hit the Memphis Cooper Young Festival this past weekend. Lots of neat arts and crafts, ecclectic people, and foot long corn dogs. Seriously good stuff and had a terrific time.
October is a busy month with photographing for Imagicopter Tour, Geek Media Expo, and some other stuff on the schedule. Hopefully I can get out to a theme park next year for a Halloween event. Just has not been time the past few years.
Still no luck on job hunt, but I remain hopeful. Thankfully, clever money management and very careful and timed purchases are still keeping things in line.
Been getting lots of little creative ideas here and there on a wide variety of subjects. Memphis truly is an artsy community and I didn't realize just how much I missed being in such an environment. It's the plant and soil analogy. This plant forgot what's it's like to be in fertile soil, and is growing again as a result.

As always, good vibes and juju to all and thank you for taking time to read my ramblings. Always greatly appreciated. :)

Rapids Joins Imagicopter as Staff Photographer

2009-09-12T19:00:00.003-05:00

As the professor on Futurama used to say, "Good news everyone!" While visiting one of Imagicopter's (http://sites.google.com/site/imagicopter/Home book signings in Hernando Mississippi, I was asked/adopted as a staff photographer to help out with their current book tour. The short answer is I'll be shooting a variety of promo and documentary stuff, along with doing some varied creative work behind the scenes. Good media, photography, and even web experience here with some very fun folks. Plus, I get to do some of what I do best: run around like a goof and take pictures and video.

Kidding aside, this really is a great opportunity for a dyed-in-the-wool archivest and documentarian. Sure we're trading book signings and the like for coasters and parks, but it still involves the same set of skills. Keep in mind, this also comes on the heels of one of my pictures being used in the promo for Kerlak Publishing's forth-coming Steampunk Anthology. Some happy strides indeed.

For those interested in either Imagicopter or Kerlak Publishing and what both groups have to offer, links are now up in the blog Contact section off to the right.

Will keep you posted on my future endeavers with this deep creative pool of folks. Definitely looking forward to the possibilities.

Special thanks to David Blalock, Kimberly Richardson, and Allen Gilbreath for opening up a new chapter in my photography and creative career. And a BIG thank you to Allen for fixing a nasty coolant leak on the NerdMobile. Also enjoyed talking with everyone at the signing and the following dinner at Cracker Barrel. Thanks all for making me feel so welcome. Greatly appreciated! :)

9/11

2009-09-11T10:44:00.000-05:00

My deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of all those lost this day 8 years ago.

Blogging Buffet & Nerdly News

2009-09-08T07:17:00.003-05:00

Time for more of the random stuff outside my theme and other travels. As I write this entry, it's a clear and sunny day here in Memphis, Tennessee. Not a cloud in the sky can be seen looking out the second story window from the computer desk. Billie (cat) is sound asleep next to the desk. Heh, she's always close by her newly adopted human.

* The last couple weeks have been A LOT of clean out and yet more consolidating. Happy to say that getting rid of some of the old stuff and organizing the current feels good. Definitely more of a focused and lighter feel. Between Kimberly and I, we've sent at least a couple car-fulls of items to Goodwill. Some of my things were easy to let go, while others, not so much. It only took thinking about a future contempo dream house to realize that some of the present decor, wouldn't really fit in. Some items also had attachments to past relationships and some negative energy/memories. Since I'm moving on in life, it's better to get rid of those items and the things attached to them, rather than bring them into the present relationship. Yes, time for a fresh start and to build much more positive memories.
* After 21 hours, 4 updates, 3 server errors, and a partidge in a pear tree (ok, maybe not that last one), Kimberly was finally able to play World of Warcraft on the recently reformatted laptop. Needless to say, she's having a great time exploring the impressive and beautiful worlds. Ire over the INSANELY long updates and having to wait to play notwithstanding, the game does look really fun. Really though, this is something she's wanted to do for a long time, and now she finally can.
* Recently loaded up Quake II and Hexen II on the laptop as well. I really do love the classic first person shooters, and it was fun to watch Kimberly jump right back into playing.
* Still keeping up with FarmTown on FaceBook, however, I'm falling out of both Roller Coaster Kingdom, and YoVille. RCK, while fun, requires you to constantly monitor your employees and feed them. While I may be out of work and have time on my hands, there are other more important things. YoVille was fun up until some recent changes coupled with plateauing in goals. I pretty much built my dream minimalist contempo beach house, so what now? Of all, I'm still enjoying the set and forget nature of FarmTown. Good game that.
* RPG-itis has spread in the wake of Dragon Con and has been bolstered by the afore mentioned shooter games. Yep, the main spare time has been spent revisiting Morrowind, one of my all-time favorites. Enjoying a new Breton Sorcerer modeled partly on my previous martial arts experience and skills. Pretty cool to play yourself, although my staff techniques still need some work. ;)
* Recently acquired Oblvion Game of the Year edition for PC along with the Shivering Isles expansion strategy guide. Like Morrowind, Oblivion is just one of those games that's a huge place to explore with lotsa stuff, and MANY crazy quests. It's also incentive to save for a laptop to run it. The current laptop just doesn't have the mojo. Those of you reading between the lines might be right about World of Warcraft also getting onto the new machine. The growing reference library could also see the nice hardbound Atlas books supporting WoW.
* Speaking of the reference library, I'm taking a new direction and tinkering with Java programming. As time wears on, I'll add more tomes to the library. Not exactly sure how this will come out, but since the career is at a cross roads, this might wind up being more fullfilling. Shot in the dark really, but we'll see. Thankfully, there's a good programming foundation that should help things get up and running quickly. Still hammering out what direction to take once proficiency is achieved.
* Second Life has really taken a back seat lately and I'm hardly ever on, as much as I enjoy the the people and creativity. Real life has had more unique experiences of late than it's digital counterpart. With more stable Internet on the way, there's better chances for me to be on more. Far from done in the realm of Second Life.
* With the recent laptop reformat and updating, Skype and AOL Instant Messenger just never got put back on. Wasn't on either very much, and the main reasons for having both programs have passed on or been supplimented by FaceBook.
* Memphis is slowly becoming familiar and feeling like home on a few fronts. Happy to have the resources, stores, restaurants, etc. No, Graceland hasn't made the travel dockett yet, but we're working on that. ;)

Happy Dragon Con

2009-09-03T06:05:00.001-05:00

Safe journey and good times to all those headed to Atlanta this weekend. :)

And now a few general Con tips for your enjoyment:

* Make sure your white cargo van has as few windows as possible.
* Tell stories and crack jokes until 4 am...then get back up at 8.
* Quote Family Guy and other pop culture media liberally.
* Shamelessly take pictures with as many beautiful people as desired.
* Stop at a nearby McDonald's in full Steampunk costume for a hearty Egg McMuffin breakfast.
* Speak in a really BAD accent and be amazed who believes it.
* Watch Dr. Horrible or Rocky Horror Picture Show at least once.
* Take in a midnight tea party.
* Om Nom!
* Buy those Neko Ears and that Brain Slug you have your eye on.
* Beat the drum with your HEAD at drum circle.
* Geek out and have fun! :)

Walking In Memphis

2009-09-01T16:32:00.001-05:00

Yes, cliche line, but very true today. Went downtown to see the sights and have lunch. Likeable city. Lov e the trolleys and Mudd Island suspended monorail. Hope to get PoVs of those in the coming weeks. Drove by Sun Studios on the way downtown too. Felt good to go walkabout in a new city.

2009 IndiaFest

2009-08-31T05:16:00.001-05:00

This past weekend I got out to the cultural gathering known as IndiaFest, here in Memphis Tennessee. Since I know so little of the culture, this was a good chance to learn and do something new.

There were some art displays, a bizaar of sorts, plenty of food, and colorful outfits. There was even a shrine to a particular diety whom I don't quite remember.

Probably the most memorable things were the impressive outfits and the food. The women in their brightly colored saris (sp?), bangle bracelets, toe rings, and even nose piercings were very pretty. And the wonderful smells that came from the food court were beyond words. It's just something one has to experience in person. The Chai tea I had was quite good after cooling.

The most enjoyable part of this time was paying respects at the shrine. I had to rmove my shoes, per custom, bow, drink some brown spiced water that tasted like licorice, blow on my hands while the attendent put a silver cup in my head, and then eat a few grapes. All of these things had significance, but I wasn't sure what. Even so, how often do you get to do something like that? It was open to anyone and I was glad to do it. Really made the day.

Those running the event made everyone feel most welcome and were very open and friendly. This was greatly appreciated. Had a good time talking with the folks over at the Isha Yoga booth as well. Thanks to them for their hospitality.

For more information, check out http://www.indiafest2009.com. For those interested in Yoga and the like, check out http://www.ishafoundation.org.

Welcome To Memphis

2009-08-26T15:00:00.002-05:00

Moving is a crazy and harrowing experience. That's just a given. It's been almost 24 hours since I got to Memphis, and, well, it hasn't been dull.

While driving in yesterday, the light and dark clouds parted and streams of sunlight poured down on the road, lighting the way. It was a beautiful and awe inspiring sight. This was a good omen, a sign I was moving on to better things and captaining my destiny as a man, rather than letting destiny choose me. Behind me, in the rear view mirror, were dark clouds, very much symbolic of certain parts of my previous home. Not ALL parts, but some.

When I got into town and started to unload the car the chaos began. The back of my driver's seat was swarming with ants. The brand new Target and Walmart eco bags were swarming with ants, with even more on the floor mat. The bags went straight into the dumpster and I raced upstairs for a can of bug spray. After a heavy Black Flagging, the swarm on the back of the seat was toast. Same for the floor mat, however, there were eggs...lots of eggs. Yep, mat ended up in dumpster.

Got the rest of the stuff out of the back seat and hurried down to a nearby car wash and vacuum. Swept out the car and hopefully any remnants. Fast forward 2 hours later to a break from unpacking. Kimberly and I decided to have Burger King. Unfortunately, the King had been sacked in favor of remodeling. Yep, where the old restaurant had stood was a nuvo-box whatever shell still being constructed. Needless to say, the golden arches of McDonald's across the street called to us. Quarter pounder was tasty, but my fries were not. It wasn't until we got back to Kimberly's apartment that this was discovered.

A bit later, I went down to the car to get my laptops out of the trunk. While going back up stairs, it looked like my driver's window was open. Went back down to check, and I was mistaken. There were, however, MORE ants running along the rain channels on the top of the car. Raced back upstairs, grabbed Black Flag, and hosed down the car's roof. Kimberly couldn't believe it. Frankly, me either. We also couldn't believe that my ankle bracelet decided to turn my skin green. Am I stuck in a Vacation movie? Yikes!

After a sleepless night, I gave up and started unpacking while Kimberly went to work. One pair of shoes was coming apart because the glue had melted...and dripped on another pair of shoes. About that time, the wonderful Chocolate Dunkers dessert from Pizza Hut decided kick in with heartburn. I swear I'm not making this up people.

So now, here I sit, about 3 hours shy of the 24 hour mark thinking "Please let it get better. Please?"

On the plus side, Kimberly has been very sweet and accommodating. Patient too. It's not easy to get 2 people's worth of stuff into 1 person's apartment. Needless to say, I'm trimming down more of my stuff, as is Kimberly, in order to fit things and not feel cluttered. Like all couples, it'll take some adjustment on both sides and a little bit to establish a routine, then things will be fine. The advantage we have is compromise. I'm also handy with organizing and packing, which is essential when you live in a small space. I have never been so thankful for compact tech and camping gear in my life! Bless you outdoor researchers and your wondrous gadgets!

Like all the bizarre stuff that get's posted here, it's really not to complain, but rather say "wow, I can't believe that" and have a laugh at the craziness. Despite the wackiness, I'm still glad to be here in Memphis and moving forward in life with Kimberly. There are better chances of work and success here than Huntsville. And, it's important to remember this is a step, not necessisarily a destination, when it comes to a happy and content life. Let's just hope the wacko quota is filled before I get anymore gray hairs.

Upcoming Steampunk Anthology from Kerlak Publishing

2009-08-24T07:33:00.004-05:00

Just found out ths morning that one of my Steampunk photos made it into a web post for Kerlak Publishing's upcoming Steampunk Anthology. The book is due out spring of next year and may feature additional photos I shot and submitted a couple weeks ago. You can see the photo and ad at http://www.kerlakpublishing.com/storycall.html.

Thanks to Author Kimberly Richardson and Kerlak for a fun jumpstart into more writing and photography.