Starting Wednesday, September 22, 2010, my internet will be sketchy at best for updates, emails, Facebook, etc. There will be delays in responses while I get settled into the new digs. Responses will be whenever I can get to a wi-fi point to check all these, so bear with me. Otherwise, I'll have txt posting to Twitter which also updates here and on my Facebook page.
For the latest, please check my Twitter Feed over there ------->
Thanks all for the patience. :)
Monday, September 20, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
501st Costuming: Decisions Decisions
After spending most of the summer handling for the great folks of The 501st Legion during Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination, it was only a question of time before I got the bug. No, not the after-DragonCon "Con Crud", but the desire to put together a Star Wars costume...and maybe a droid...oh, and a couple blasters...and a Force Pike...you get the idea.
If you thought it was tough as a kid to go to the toy section of some store and pic ONE figure as a prize, it's even harder and more expensive as an adult. I say that with love, because I still cringe the same way my father did at the site of an AT-AT toy's price tag. Even so, choosing a persona to really dedicate to and finance is a tough thing. And there are MANY options out in the universe that is Star Wars.
I started off doing the typical "I wanna do that, and that, and that, and that. Ooooo! And THAT TOO!" My original costume intent was (and is now my namesake on Alabama Garrison and Florida Garrison boards) an AT-AT Driver, also comically referred to as an Imperial Bobble Head (The helmet is HUUUUUGGGE! Heh, and I sound like the Orlando Fun Spot Guy here.) From there I remembered how much I liked Return of the Jedi Biker Scouts, so that was locked in as an alternate. Next up, by way of a need in Alabama Garrison, was Return of the Jedi Emperor Palpatine. The more I thought about it, the more I liked that face character, and his mannerisms and speaking tamber could be easily learned. It was also a simpler and less expensive costume. The downside was the potential several hours spirit-gumming latex face parts. I may be 35, but I'm not old, crusty, or Force Lightning jacked. Well, not yet.
Another set of factors in choosing a character were the cool props to build. If I did any kind of trooper, I wanted a BIG gun, like the Cloners. Some of those Clone Troopers just look awesome with their huge guns...but they aren't Empire...well, not yet. It turns out Biker Scouts can get away with using a sniper blaster rifle (still learning the name on that one). Another point in the win column for Biker.
On top of all this, (yes there's more because I like to learn stuff), I've been exploring R2/Astromech building. This is another very different arena with it's own potentially huge costs and wicked costume coolness. Were I to have time and funds, I'd build one of the droids you don't see as often, vs. the usual (and still very cool) R2-D2. Keep in mind, as the movies have progressed, R2 gets more neat gadgets to add on after you build the basic unit.
So here's the balancing act: Screen accurate character of some sort + screen accurate droid with cool gadgets + screen accurate props that can be used at different events. Now, how to get that all to work together, make it transportable, and keep the cost down. Obviously you work on things a little at a time. Rough numbers, Storm Trooper (aka TK) armor will run about $1000-1500 +. R2's can run $600-$10,000. In both cases, cost depends on what parts, materials, and suppliers you use. Ack!
Yep, trooping and/or droid building is an expensive hobby to jump into, so choosing wisely is important. Right now I'm at the early stages of this stuff, asking questions and gathering resources. I'm finding there are a lot of crafty, creative, and resourceful people out there who have much experience and they're willing to help out a lot. Whenever it's time to pick a character and jump in, the massive pools of sage wisdom and experience are most welcome. It's a great time to learn a lot, especially about the tech and imagination behind Star Wars.
Will keep you all posted as I learn more. Right now, it's down to Biker Scout (TB) with sniper blaster, or Emperor Palpatine with possible Astromech tinkering down the line. (A friendly beep and whistle to RT-KT and R2-D2, both of whom I worked with this summer.)
And Pops, IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT! ;)
If you thought it was tough as a kid to go to the toy section of some store and pic ONE figure as a prize, it's even harder and more expensive as an adult. I say that with love, because I still cringe the same way my father did at the site of an AT-AT toy's price tag. Even so, choosing a persona to really dedicate to and finance is a tough thing. And there are MANY options out in the universe that is Star Wars.
I started off doing the typical "I wanna do that, and that, and that, and that. Ooooo! And THAT TOO!" My original costume intent was (and is now my namesake on Alabama Garrison and Florida Garrison boards) an AT-AT Driver, also comically referred to as an Imperial Bobble Head (The helmet is HUUUUUGGGE! Heh, and I sound like the Orlando Fun Spot Guy here.) From there I remembered how much I liked Return of the Jedi Biker Scouts, so that was locked in as an alternate. Next up, by way of a need in Alabama Garrison, was Return of the Jedi Emperor Palpatine. The more I thought about it, the more I liked that face character, and his mannerisms and speaking tamber could be easily learned. It was also a simpler and less expensive costume. The downside was the potential several hours spirit-gumming latex face parts. I may be 35, but I'm not old, crusty, or Force Lightning jacked. Well, not yet.
Another set of factors in choosing a character were the cool props to build. If I did any kind of trooper, I wanted a BIG gun, like the Cloners. Some of those Clone Troopers just look awesome with their huge guns...but they aren't Empire...well, not yet. It turns out Biker Scouts can get away with using a sniper blaster rifle (still learning the name on that one). Another point in the win column for Biker.
On top of all this, (yes there's more because I like to learn stuff), I've been exploring R2/Astromech building. This is another very different arena with it's own potentially huge costs and wicked costume coolness. Were I to have time and funds, I'd build one of the droids you don't see as often, vs. the usual (and still very cool) R2-D2. Keep in mind, as the movies have progressed, R2 gets more neat gadgets to add on after you build the basic unit.
So here's the balancing act: Screen accurate character of some sort + screen accurate droid with cool gadgets + screen accurate props that can be used at different events. Now, how to get that all to work together, make it transportable, and keep the cost down. Obviously you work on things a little at a time. Rough numbers, Storm Trooper (aka TK) armor will run about $1000-1500 +. R2's can run $600-$10,000. In both cases, cost depends on what parts, materials, and suppliers you use. Ack!
Yep, trooping and/or droid building is an expensive hobby to jump into, so choosing wisely is important. Right now I'm at the early stages of this stuff, asking questions and gathering resources. I'm finding there are a lot of crafty, creative, and resourceful people out there who have much experience and they're willing to help out a lot. Whenever it's time to pick a character and jump in, the massive pools of sage wisdom and experience are most welcome. It's a great time to learn a lot, especially about the tech and imagination behind Star Wars.
Will keep you all posted as I learn more. Right now, it's down to Biker Scout (TB) with sniper blaster, or Emperor Palpatine with possible Astromech tinkering down the line. (A friendly beep and whistle to RT-KT and R2-D2, both of whom I worked with this summer.)
And Pops, IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT! ;)
Expedition Orlando 2: When Reality Hits
With any move there is a sheer ton of things going on, not to mention minor chaos to boot. For the past couple weeks, I've been hacking through my to do list like a lone Sith through Clone Troopers. It wasn't until a quiet dinner at one of my fave Asian buffets, that I had a moment of Zen...and a chance to breathe.
I sat there in a tranquil, peaceful state, mind nowhere in particular, eating snow crab legs, when it started sinking in, I really am leaving Alabama next week to follow my big dream. Something I really wanted with my heart's desire, and it was actually happening, and soon. There was a serenity and warmth I'd not felt in a very long time. There was also awe and wonder. Oh, and the crab was delicious too.
Now, this might not sound like that big of a deal, but until you experience wanting something with every ounce of your being, then actually getting it, it's difficult to relate. This is a dream shot, a clean slate, and so many more indescribable things, particularly spiritual and next level. It's the beginning of realizing and living up to potential felt for so very long inside, but always held just out of reach. The gravity of each choice is immense. It's an exciting and scary time in some ways. It's also a welcome time to slow down and grow gracefully, not so much under duress, as has been the norm all these years. Yes, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, I'm feeling quite a lot.
I vowed to improve myself, to make better choices, and to exceed my potential, and finally put to rest some of the things that have weighed on me for many years. Now I have the tools, mindset, and battle experience to do so. This summer, particularly all the wonderful people I met, old and new, helped give me better tools, mindset, etc, through some unique opportunities. I'm very grateful to them for their time, encouragement, support, humor, teaching, wisdom, and guidance. I'll miss many of them very much and will keep up the bonds and good will forged during the summer.
To those, and many others, whose shoulders I've stood upon, my deepest thanks for helping me grow. You've given a great gift. Thank you. :)
I sat there in a tranquil, peaceful state, mind nowhere in particular, eating snow crab legs, when it started sinking in, I really am leaving Alabama next week to follow my big dream. Something I really wanted with my heart's desire, and it was actually happening, and soon. There was a serenity and warmth I'd not felt in a very long time. There was also awe and wonder. Oh, and the crab was delicious too.
Now, this might not sound like that big of a deal, but until you experience wanting something with every ounce of your being, then actually getting it, it's difficult to relate. This is a dream shot, a clean slate, and so many more indescribable things, particularly spiritual and next level. It's the beginning of realizing and living up to potential felt for so very long inside, but always held just out of reach. The gravity of each choice is immense. It's an exciting and scary time in some ways. It's also a welcome time to slow down and grow gracefully, not so much under duress, as has been the norm all these years. Yes, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, I'm feeling quite a lot.
I vowed to improve myself, to make better choices, and to exceed my potential, and finally put to rest some of the things that have weighed on me for many years. Now I have the tools, mindset, and battle experience to do so. This summer, particularly all the wonderful people I met, old and new, helped give me better tools, mindset, etc, through some unique opportunities. I'm very grateful to them for their time, encouragement, support, humor, teaching, wisdom, and guidance. I'll miss many of them very much and will keep up the bonds and good will forged during the summer.
To those, and many others, whose shoulders I've stood upon, my deepest thanks for helping me grow. You've given a great gift. Thank you. :)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Expedition Orlando: Take 2
A funny thing happened while getting my oil changed...
While waiting on my car to get done and having a leisurely lunch, I checked the usual job posts on Career Builder. There were four urgent opens for a call center something-er-ruther in Orlando. So, I decided to throw a resume at them for the hell of it. Later that night, about 11 pm, I got an email response that would lead to a flurry of emails, online tests, etc over the next few days. The end result was an interview. Blink. Blink. Whaaaaa?!?!? Interview?!?!
Bring on the weekend scramble to set up a quick trip to Orlando for said interview (and impromptu Labor Day weekend stay). By Monday, and completing a round of last minute paperwork, I left for Orlando at 7:15 pm, arriving in Macon, GA, about 2 am. Finally got to Orlando Tuesday evening about 5 pm. First stop, Downtown Disney for decompression and to see the D Street Vinylmation store. :)
After a minor reschedule, my interview was Thursday morning, 9 am. Nailed it. Could not have gone better, and was very thankful. In short, good hours, good pay, good chances for advancement. Thursday afternoon was time for "Did that just happen?!" and chill...for about 10 seconds. Yep, the noisy, crazy Labor Day crowds arrived, slamming hotel doors and doing cartwheels in the hotel hallway. Oh, and I had to start over with the apartment hunt, sorting through tons of listings to get to a short list to drive to and see. Finally got to a short list Sunday after a ton of research. Meanwhile, Saturday night I celebrated the job with dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (most tasty grilled shrimp salad, btw) and clubbing at CityWalk. Groove was a good time. So good in fact, that I broke my hematite ring and my tiger eye ring. Oh well. Felt great to dance off a ton of stress with some fun people. And this time, I didn't get splashed with beer during a cat fight.
Exhausted, I piled back in the car Monday morning, only to get to Lake City before needing much sleep. Passed out all afternoon and most of the night. Was back on the road at 9:30 the next day and back in to Huntsville by 8 pm. Very long drive day which was prolonged by construction in several places. Thankfully, BK chicken fries are a good travel meal, and McDonald's, Ruby Tuesday, and some other place I can't remember had free wi-fi for checking email, etc.
As Ron Harris, my former high school drama teacher said often, "Saying all that to say this." The craziness is far from over. Delighted to be working again, but budget will be tight while I rebuild finances, my career, and start over. Very very glad to be in a town that has called to me for many years, but it's going to be a long, slow climb back into stability after the previous year. Despite all the play options and parks, this is a time to work, grow, and forge. I'm 35 and long for peace and stability. I've had some wonderful adventures over the past year, but I'm so ready for my own place again along with the quiet dignity of being able to take care of my day to day responsibilities. Relief is really the best description here.
The next several weeks will be busy during the move and settling in to job and apartment. Will keep you all posted. Keep good thoughts. :)
While waiting on my car to get done and having a leisurely lunch, I checked the usual job posts on Career Builder. There were four urgent opens for a call center something-er-ruther in Orlando. So, I decided to throw a resume at them for the hell of it. Later that night, about 11 pm, I got an email response that would lead to a flurry of emails, online tests, etc over the next few days. The end result was an interview. Blink. Blink. Whaaaaa?!?!? Interview?!?!
Bring on the weekend scramble to set up a quick trip to Orlando for said interview (and impromptu Labor Day weekend stay). By Monday, and completing a round of last minute paperwork, I left for Orlando at 7:15 pm, arriving in Macon, GA, about 2 am. Finally got to Orlando Tuesday evening about 5 pm. First stop, Downtown Disney for decompression and to see the D Street Vinylmation store. :)
After a minor reschedule, my interview was Thursday morning, 9 am. Nailed it. Could not have gone better, and was very thankful. In short, good hours, good pay, good chances for advancement. Thursday afternoon was time for "Did that just happen?!" and chill...for about 10 seconds. Yep, the noisy, crazy Labor Day crowds arrived, slamming hotel doors and doing cartwheels in the hotel hallway. Oh, and I had to start over with the apartment hunt, sorting through tons of listings to get to a short list to drive to and see. Finally got to a short list Sunday after a ton of research. Meanwhile, Saturday night I celebrated the job with dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (most tasty grilled shrimp salad, btw) and clubbing at CityWalk. Groove was a good time. So good in fact, that I broke my hematite ring and my tiger eye ring. Oh well. Felt great to dance off a ton of stress with some fun people. And this time, I didn't get splashed with beer during a cat fight.
Exhausted, I piled back in the car Monday morning, only to get to Lake City before needing much sleep. Passed out all afternoon and most of the night. Was back on the road at 9:30 the next day and back in to Huntsville by 8 pm. Very long drive day which was prolonged by construction in several places. Thankfully, BK chicken fries are a good travel meal, and McDonald's, Ruby Tuesday, and some other place I can't remember had free wi-fi for checking email, etc.
As Ron Harris, my former high school drama teacher said often, "Saying all that to say this." The craziness is far from over. Delighted to be working again, but budget will be tight while I rebuild finances, my career, and start over. Very very glad to be in a town that has called to me for many years, but it's going to be a long, slow climb back into stability after the previous year. Despite all the play options and parks, this is a time to work, grow, and forge. I'm 35 and long for peace and stability. I've had some wonderful adventures over the past year, but I'm so ready for my own place again along with the quiet dignity of being able to take care of my day to day responsibilities. Relief is really the best description here.
The next several weeks will be busy during the move and settling in to job and apartment. Will keep you all posted. Keep good thoughts. :)
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