Into The West

I Fear For The Future!

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:56:54 GMT

Okay, maybe the title is a TAD dramatic but you'll understand what I mean in a minute.

I just got through flipping through the latest Shop Til You Drop magazine that I picked up with the groceries this evening. Now, it's not a high fashion magazine but it's usually a good one to look through to get a run down of current trends, places to look for neat bits and pieces, how to put certain outfits together and sometimes a different point of view on the fashion industry. It's an overall okay mag for someone with a limited amount of time.

So, I decided to give the current one a quick flip through, to see what catches my eye in case I want a new outfit for the upcoming Christmas parties, or just because, and was horrified by what I found. Yes, horrified, terrified and wanting to stick my head under a pillow and forget...pretend it was all a bad dream.

I weep for anyone trying to buy clothes for the next season, for those that decide they love the new trends and hop on board this particular fashion train because it's really nothing but the worst kind of TRAIN WRECK. The styles are pulling up some of the WORST trends of the 80's and combining them with the most ludicrous colors and stylings. The only people who MIGHT (and that is a big maybe) be able to pull these looks off are stick thin Glamazons with more money than Gates and who probably belong on the catwalks themselves.

I mean, seriously? Poofy but structured Tulip skirts (which we all know were really a bubble skirt in it's past life) and floppy wannabe blazers with scalloped edges? The ruffle trend could be fun if done right but most of the dresses I saw had strategically places ruffles intended to draw the eye to the parts of the body most normally built females would really prefer to pretend don't exist. And high waisted short shorts? Did somebody forget that shorts aren't the most flattering garments to begin with? Pulling the waist up to your bra strap and cutting the legs off at your groin REALLY isn't going to help any. *headdesk*

I have a funny feeling I'm going to be relying on my in-closet staples spread out with very selective online purchases from places where sanity still reigns and combining that with garments coming from my very own sewing machine. You know, ones that fit and flatter me rather than make me look like a balloon float that got lost on it's way to the Macy's Parade. *rolls eyes*

Oh yes, and then there is the final thing. You know how 'they' like to say Green is the new Black and all that crud? The color of the season, for both garments and makeup...is orange. Ranging from peach to pumpkin, it's the trendy color. And it makes my want to vomit. One of the hardest colors to match to most people, it's also just plain hideous under normal circumstances unless you're going to a Halloween party. Does that sound a bit too narky? I know I really hate the color, personally, but come on! It's ORANGE! McDonald's uses orange in everything they make because it's supposedly the most psychologically neutral color and one that spans all socio-economic groups. It does that because everyone agrees it a gross color!!

Alright, rant over. I'm going to go through my fabric and pattern stashes and decide what I'M going to be wearing for the next 6 months because I get the feeling that I really won't be buying anything new anytime soon.

X-posted from Blogspot

Random Updates

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:28:01 GMT

Well, thanks to a few days of cooler temperature we've been getting off and on, I am slowly managing to get ahead of the mess that is the backyard. Once I get done, I'll post some before and after shots to show you guys just what a difference it is! XD

Meanwhile, planning for Yule has begun! Tomorrow, I think I'll start putting decorations up.

And I need to go to spotlight to find some lovely cotton in fruit prints. Why? To with the new decorations I have for my nails! They just came in the mail from ebay and I'm really looking forward to giving them a try. They look SO cute and yummy!

Garden Reclamation Project

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:51:33 GMT

Ugh. My hands hurt. My whole body hurts. I'm watching Pirates 3 on tv and all I want to do is stretch out on the bed and rest.

All because I decided today would be a good day to start weeding my garden. Only, it's so bad that's it's not really weeding, it reclaiming. The back yard has resembled a jungle for some time now and working on it has not been a priority, but I want to be able to enjoy it this summer, so something has to be done.

Unfortunately, I should have worn gloves. Cause my hands are just wrecked now. Good thing I'm not currently trying to keep my nails long, because they would be a lost cause now. And I really worked my butt off today and ALL my muscles are reminding me of that fact. Tomorrow is going to suck.

Oh yah, here's pics!

The befores:

And I'd already tidied a tiny bit here!

And the afters...though there us still a LOT of work to do!

This is several hours and 3 bags of debris later.

Ow.

Whodathunk?

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:01:20 GMT

If someone had told me 8 years ago that I would be living in Sydney but wishing I could go back to Canada, I would have told them they were nuts. At the time, I really couldn't get away from home fast enough and was very excited by the thought of moving here. I still love living here, very much, but I miss home, familiar places and people and hate being so very far away. Could I possibly have picked a place further away to live? Thank goodness for living in the age of technology. Keeps people in touch better but sure can't prevent one from getting home sick.

Ah well, c'est la vie. Guess we'll see what the future brings.

Blah, Meh, Squee, Sigh!

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:52:11 GMT

Yah, I think the title says it all. I should just leave this like that! But no, I'm actually going do an entry cause I suck at entries.

So, what's been happening? Been busy at home a lot, trying to sort stuff here, get projects done work on work stuff and folio stuff and so on. Sad to say but I really haven't left the house much this past month and I really should.

Went to Auckland, NZ, though, for Armageddon. Really enjoyed that, met some awesome people and finally got to put faces to names on at least two! *waves at anariazar_rel and pinkdiamond* Visit wasn't nearly long enough, we didn't get to see much outside of Central Auckland and I didn't get to jump off the Sky Tower as planned but we hope to go back soon. We've been invited to visit WETA so that just give us even more reason to get back as quick as we can.

Been playing a lot of Halo 3:ODST lately, trying to get all my achievements and what not. Geeky, I know. But it's a lot of fun and I enjoy the game play aspect of it almost more that the original Halo 3. It's more compact in storyline and you have to do a lot more thinking as you play, less random killing/reacting. I've always been a big fan of the Halo games, the first one was the only reason we bought the boat anchor (aka original XBox) and now that I seem to be getting my sewing and costuming mojo back, I'm inspired to work on my Halo cosplay ideas. Part of what has REALLY inspired me was meeting the voice of the Master Chief in Auckland. Such and awesome guy and just reminded me how much I do love the games.

So now we're back home and dealing with daily grind crap again. I'm trying to sort through the sewing room, which is nicely clean and organized these days, and get rid of excess costumes I don't need anymore and plan future projects. I have the urge to make a lot more clothes atm. Especially now that I just got some really awesome shoes in the mail! Need things to wear with them!

Going to also get on top of weeding the garden so that varietys_liar, faerie_mistress and sewaddicted can come over during the summer months and sit out there for tea and stitch n' bitches. May also enlist the help of said ~~inmates~~ friends! We'll see...there's just so much crap out in the yard right now that first I have to motivate myself to tackle it!

Anywho, going to run off and do stuff now. I'm currently ripping a dress I made apart cause I'm realizing I'm really only happy with it as a skirt now. Need to get as much as I can done today while I have the house to myself. (Marco's playing in the bush with a friend right now)

Oh yah, didn't get up to much for Halloween cause everyone was busy doing something else and we'd just gotten back from Auckland. Got three Trick or Treaters though! Next year, we will do something. *plots*

Late Night Dorking Out

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:38:44 GMT

Now...where to start? Oh yah!

I recently found a site that lets me direct stream eps of shows that I have never watched so that's what I'm doing...assuaging some curiosity. Like this Smallville everyone goes one about? I mean, DC! Who'd watch that? Now, Marvel I could understand....*debates ducking for cover* Can't entirely complain though. There's a certain insane, bald actor on the show that I share a birthday with so that's amusing for me.

Oh, and One Tree Hill. Not normally anywhere in the realm of my usual choice of shows but I figured, what the hell? Besides, I do like basketball...and cheerleading. Can't be all bad, right? So far, I'm not hating it. I hear CMM is a total douche bag in real life, though.

Meanwhile, I needed something to do with my hands while fast pacing through eps of said shows so I pulled out my fabric paints. I have these really awesome jeans that are getting kinda full of holes but I still love the jeans so I just patch them up. Now, I have started painting on them. See pics. XD

*runs off to be a dork some more*

What Harry Did....

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:01:16 GMT

Just a quick post to show what I got up to this weekend...a continuation of my last post, if you will.

This is before I put on the rest of the gear to play. The coveralls and helmet were actually needed because this was a real (dirty) mine and I nearly brained myself several times. The lump you can JUST see at the end there? A wombat hiding at the end of the mine!

Coming in...

You better run!

The bloody aftermath?

Now, I just have to make a few adjustments and do a whole horror themed photoshoot. :)

Friendly Warning XD

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 08:09:16 GMT

Better watch out cause Harry's going hunting! :)

Omg, Another Post!

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:01:01 GMT

Okay, after admitting that I flake out on my LJ stuff and that I currently have too much time on my hands, I have knuckled down and decided to stop being a twit. Woo Hoo! So, no more scared of LJ but will still be trying to blog post and stuff...cause I can.

This brings me to do second post in two days! Course, today I plan to cheat a tiny bit because I also realized I had a bunch of pics on my camera that I hadn't put anywhere, so I'm gonna nail them up here as well as on FB. Two birds, one stone.

First off, for those that haven't already seen, my current squee in action...just waiting for me to take them on the ice and then proceded to re-enact a certain distinctive scene from The Cutting Edge.

The laces are to change them up a bit and save me from all the blinding, boring white. I'm thinking of getting legwarmers to match! ;)

Next, images of what happens when Optus decides to dick around with our phone and internet for a week. Warning, may not be safe for some viewers! *lmao*

Not pretty, is it? XD

Lastly, something to save you from the horrow of the last images, something cute and fluffy!

Mauii window meditating while I clean, because I couldn't use the net.

And the true, unadulterated color of his purdy eyes! I'm ready for my close up, Mr DeVil!

The pale spot on his nose is from where he decided to to suntan a little too much one time at the cattery. *lol*

So, there yah go. Wasn't that fun?! I'm going to go feel miserable for myself a while longer while I kick the last of this bloody cold.

Psst...like my avatar? *pets the pretty*

Ergh!!

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:28:10 GMT

Okay, logged in today to try and catch up on the LJ stuff I haven't read. So much stuff!!! I'm really sorry if I haven't been on here much.

I swear, I LOVE everyone on my LJ to bits but it really kinda terrifies me sometimes to log in because there is always so much to read and catch up and sometimes I don't know what to write or if I should comment and...ergh!! So, I often procrastinate and avoid LJ in my rounds of site checking-in.

It's been even harder lately because of the distressing lack of internet but that has now been fixed and I no longer need to rely on the local McDonald's for net access.

Thankfully, I have a new cell phone, finally, and I love it to bits...and it has internet capability on it! Of course, like all small net devices, some sites work better than others on it. LJ is a bit intensive for it at times. However, I recently have signed up for a Blogger account and it seems to work very easily. And I HAVE actually been posting there a bit. Why did I get a blogger? A combo of easier to use, not LJ scary and why not? I mean, I already have so many other net sites I barely use, what's one more? :D But anyone who wants to can pop over to read the ramblings there and you don't even have to sign up to be able to comment. Another bonus, though I don't think anyone will read it. Ooh, added bonus! Because there's, like, NO ONE reading it...I can be a snarky, sarcastic bitch to myself if I feel like it. *lmao* Man, do I wish someone would some of with a 'sarcasm' button. Or font or emoticon ro SOMETHING! A version of italics maybe? I feel handicapped without it. XD

I also really wish there was some major program I could download that would network ALL of my net pages together in one easy to access spot. I demand somebody invents one!!!

Okay, that was fun...

Got two things in the mail today, which was awesome cause I'm sick again and need as many distractions as possible. One was my thigh high converse style boot/shoes. They really are thigh high, solid black converse (though I have both red and white laces if I feel like a change) Thankfully, they have zippers on the inside of the leg so once you have them laced the way you like, you use that to put them on and take them off. Can't wait to wear them out!

The other thing I got was my pack of ordered MOO mini cards. They came out pretty well and are small and simple. I used an assortment of costume/cosplay images on them so they're also pretty distinctive. Should come in handy for when I have to to go to Aukland Armageddon.

Hoping to kick this cold asap. Friday I have an appointment to get my new ice skates sharpened and then might be going rollerblading in Parramatta Park with varietys_liar. Then it's back to Parra Park on Sunday for a Regency Tea with faerie_mistress and sewaddicted and I have to make sure my outfit is ready before then.

Okay, enough rambling for now. I really should try and sleep some more. *sigh* Sonuvabitch I hate being sick!

Btw, I would just like to say a nice little thank you to K Rudd for my skates, converse and new phone. XD Now I just need to get my new bookshelf and I'll be all set. (Spent last friday/saturday without net, so what did I do? Rearranged, cleaned and moved furniture. Now I need a new bookcase for all the stuff I DIDN'T throw out!)

Okay, bye now. *flees*

Banned CK Ad!

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:13:37 GMT

Okay, I'm not some kind of Calvin Klein fan or anything but I find this most recent issue somewhat amusing, so I thought I would mention it here.

Word has it, this ad has been banned from the US and YouTube as well, as it is considered too racy, along with a large still image currently gracing an American city. It depicts SOME nudity and somewhat simulated sex, though the only 'dangerous' nudity is the fact that the girl is as topless as the guys. Again, ads can be shown with violence but not sex. Go figure.

Is it the worry that such an ad would encourage group sex among youth? Is it the strong depiction of one girl with several guys and the continued double standard that a sexually active female is a slut while guys are just studs? Is it the idea that anything besides the standardized one guy and one girl doing missionary is somewhat weird/wrong/kinky?

Personally, I would rather see an ad like this than yet another music video from some idiotic rapper wanting to put a cap in someone's ass or groping his booty bouncing dancing eye candy.

"Calvin Klein is pushing those sensitive American censors with their Spring-Summer 2009 Jeans ad campaign. The TV commercial shot by Steven Meisel in grainy quality has been banned in America. The campaign stars male and female models — including Anna Jagodzinska, Anna Selezneva, Natasha Poly, Edita Vilkeviciute, Carson Parker, Danny Schwarz, Vladimir Ivanov and new face Mikus Lasmanis — who aren’t wearing much more than their Calvins .

The 15- and 30-second spots will initially be exclusive online at calvinkleinjeans.com, the home of the brand’s future U.S. e-commerce site. The commercial will be the site’s main attraction until the completed site launches in the summer, WWD reports. Calvin Klein is working on an edited version of the commercial that will air on cable, while outside the U.S., countries such as Italy, France, Spain and Germany will show the uncensored version."

Link to page with full ad here!

Writer's Block: Grimm Question

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:29:33 GMT

What was your favorite fairy tale as a child?

Submitted By wolfy284

View 503 Answers

My fave fairytale as a child was Cinderella. I read every version and variation I could get my hands on and was fascinated by some of the earlier and more gruesome versions. The fact that the stepsisters would, not just try and force their feet into the glass slipper but, actually CUT pieces pf their feet off to do the trick always grabbed me. It might be the morbid part of me but I still think it highlights the sheer obsession they had with winning a place at the Prince's side.

There are two other tales that I loved but they have never been 'Disney-ed' so many still don't know them. One is 'The Wild Swans', a tale of a princess that must silently knit 12 shirts from nettles in order to save her younger brothers from being trapped at swans. The other is 'The Twelve Months'. I think it is Russian in origin. A young girl is sent into the woods in the dead of winter by her family to find something (galanthus flowers in the version I know best) that should be impossible to find at that time of year. She stumbles upon a meeting of the Twelve Months, who help her. Lots of morals and comeuppance in that one. There was an 80's anime version made that I am still trying to hunt a copy of. :)

One Hell Of A Weekend!

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:57:22 GMT

Okay, so last Sunday, Marco and I drove into the city for a rather interesting day. We were going to attend the All Hell Breaks Loose convention at the UNSW. The guests were none other than Jensen Ackles (Dean Winchester), Jared Padalecki (Sam Winchester) and Misha Collins (Castiel).

It was a fun day! The talks by each of the boys were really quite funny.

Misha was first, answering his questions with style and humor that was surprising considering this was only his third convention. The best part was when he spoke of his part in a recent Nip/Tuck episode where he played a yoga instructor that had trouble leaving his living room do to a certain favored pastime. The character was there to have a reduction in his anatomy and showed off some of his rather flexible moves...something that nearly left Misha in traction due to him not actually being someone who does yoga. Though, he was very surprised at his own flexibility! And made some amusing observations about seeing his balls close up...*lmao* Oh yah, and one fan asked Misha how he prepared for shirtless scenes. The crowd went insane (boy, can those fangirls SCREAM!) when he made a joke about certain people resorting to plastic surgery and Jared came barreling out of the green room, pretending to be mad.

The day was interspersed with screenings of season 4 episodes that have not yet made it to Australian television, along with professional pictures with each of the guests and the first round of autograph sessions. I was fortunate enough to get a picture with Jared and Jensen! I also had the opportunity to have a short talk with Jensen's lovely girlfriend and actress, Danneel Harris. She was really sweet and seemed very curious about the black sclera contacts I had popped in at that point. I was glad to be able to tell her how much I loved Ten Inch Hero and wished her all the best for the future.

During the afternoon, it was finally Jared's chance to talk. He was funny and goofy and entirely too fond of the chair he was sitting on. He kept spinning in circles! i don't really remember most of what he talked about because of it being a blur but he learned what the term 'bogan' means and was fascinated by the Aussie chant. And he seemed pleased when one of the very few guys in the audience asked him about his exercise regime.

He was followed right after by Jensen, who was somewhat more subdued but very popular with crowd and certainly more thorough in answering the crowd's questions...except for the stupid ones, of course. Then Jared joined him back on the stage with even more than his usual energy and goofiness. Some questions got answered in between Jared bouncing on his chair and Jensen getting done in by attempting to eat a Fantale, only to have his teeth almost glued shut. Misha then joined them both on stage where Jared and Jensen each doodled on a white t-shirt that was auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Starlight Foundation. Each shirt went for several thousand dollars, especially when Jared used it to wipe away some of the perspiration on his face and then got Misha (along with some amusing shenanigans) and Jensen to sign it.

In all, it was a fun and casual convention that was quite enjoyable. I met some new people, chatted to some familiar faces and really enjoyed a chat with Misha where he turned out to be another one fascinated by my contacts. :) I hope the boys (and their girls) all enjoyed their trip Down Under and that they come back for another visit as soon as possible.

Now...for pictures!

The crowd waiting outside to get in.

Jared Padalecki answering questions.

Watching Jared's talk

The boys doodle on t-shirts for charity.

Jensen and Jared read out a note from Jim Beaver (Bobby Singer) that uses lots of odd Aussie terms.

Some friendly fans I met there.

Exchanging emails amid giggles caused by our position echoing some earlier antics by Jared and Misha.

With the sweet and lovely Danneel Harris. (She's SO tiny! Made me feel like a giant)

The boys, Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles! They were so awesome. Jared was surprised as I walked away after having this pic taken...because I was wearing my hair down! :D

Cheers!

Death By Nova!

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:14:52 GMT

Okay, I'm done, finished, dead. The brain hamster has given up the ghost and the wheel is silent.

Why? Cause doing two Supanova's back to back in different cities is tiring! Went from a cool, windy place with lots of flies on the one weekend to a warm, humid, melty place the next and from a small group to over flowing people!!

It was fun though. Saw some great cosplays and got to catch up with assorted peoples, wear costumes and freak people out.

The miner gear from Melbourne was fun but nothing like my contacts in Brisbane! Holey Rusted Metal, Batman! Did those contacts ever freak the hell out of people, including poor Amber Benson (Tara from Buffy) who couldn't look me in the eye because of them. *lol*

Ah, well, it's all done now for a few months and I am just going to run on auto pilot for a couple days, maybe ingest large amounts of caffeine to see if I can shock the brain hamster to life again. *grin*

Oh yah....haven't sorted through most of the yet, but here's some quick piccies from Brissy!

Friday Night - Aphrodite IX

Saturday - The Comedian

Sunday - Pixie of the X-men (shown here with a familiar Silk Specter I)

And yes, those are the contacts that freaked everyone out so much. *grin*

Now, I am going to go and be somewhat vegetable-like for a while.

Melbnova!!

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 02:42:06 GMT

Yah, so I am currently sitting at the Cosplay Registration desk in Melbourne watching the audience for the Kamehameha filter past. Katee Sackoff is currently in the room behind me doing her second talk for the weekend and I am clutching coffee because last night was too late and this morning came way too early.

Such fun!

Looking forward to Brissie. Melbourne is nice, specially since I haven't been here before, but I like Brisbane.

Got to see people yesterday! I saw metanoia_cw, mandymaria and starfirephoenix! Which was so awesome! *huge hugs to all* Wish you guys could be in Bris!

Anyway...I need to go find my brain. *blah*

Random Family Thoughts

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:30:03 GMT

Wow, I had a weird morning. Have you ever had one of those moments where you thing of something and it’s kind of like some sort of revelation? I kinda had one, though I’m sure it might sound dumb to others.

I was thinking about the movie Gran Torino, of all things, and how someone I know said they didn’t like it because they didn’t GET how Eastwood’s character could all of a sudden become close to the Korean family next door when he was somewhat of a bigot and racist to begin with. The thing was, he discovered that, against all he thought he knew, he had more in common with these unusual neighbours of his than with his own family.

That’s the thing I realized…about family. A lot of people put a great deal of store in family, sticking by family, family always comes first and that kind of thing. Which is a really good way to be, normally.

What people don’t really think about is that family will always be family, no matter what. You can have fights and falling outs and so much go on, but they will always be family. This, of course, doesn’t necessarily mean they are better people because they are family…it doesn’t even guarantee that they are GOOD people. Nor does it mean you are going to have anything in common with them. Shared history, sure, but not always things in common.

Eastwood’s character loses his wife and is all alone in the world. He realizes, in his grumpy and close minded way, that he doesn’t LIKE his family much and has nothing in common with them. The kids want to put him in a home and sell his house; the grandkids are disrespectful in his eyes and only cozy up to him in the hope of getting his mint condition Gran Torino when he’s gone.

Family…mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter…so on. A husband or wife is not family. They are partner, lover, friend, companion…not family. They are someone you CHOOSE to be with.

And I have always said that friends are the family we actually choose for ourselves.

I probably have a bit of a funny look at family because I’m not technically related to mine. I’m adopted. I was chosen, myself. Does that mean I’m not close to my family? Far from. We’re actually pretty close knit, even with me living half a world away. I generally really LIKE my family, though I am far from blind to their faults.

I guess what it all comes down to, is that the family you are given doesn’t automatically outweigh everything else, like some sort of default setting. Family should be who and what you chose it to be. If that means the sister you always fight with but know will always be there for you or the boy you’ve known since kindergarten or even the friend you only met six months ago but you clicked like lost pieces of a puzzle, then at least that’s who you’ve chosen and you know it’s real family.

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:00:43 GMT

Well, what can I tell you? I'm still working like crazy, also working like crazy to finish things for the upcoming Supanovas and trying to get on top for the work I need to do for the cons as well.

Did take some time out for myself this weekend, though. Went out to Liverpool Saturday night to look at American muscle cars, where they like to hang out on occasion at the Cafe De Wheels there. Saw some very nice vehicles and talked to a few people about the car I want and what they recommend I do about it. Had a meat pie with mashed potatoes and ketchup on top. Was very yummy!

Today I watched a new tv series I'm getting into. It's from the states and I don't think it screens here at all. It's called Leverage and it's kind of like what you would get if you crossed NCIS with Ocean's 11. The team is made of con artists with different talents who help people by going after bad corporations etc.

It's got some funny lines and some interesting characters, a bit of eye candy and is just a lot of fun. (See pics!)

Looks cool, huh? I'm enjoying it so far and glad to hear (even though I've just gotten into it) that they have already been picked up for a second season. So, no I have something new to enjoy during my brief off times. :D

Anywho, off to get some sleep!!

Lolifest & Projects!

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:24:24 GMT

Okay, so I've finally got Lolifest pics up so people can see the here. I really like how some of them turned out and everyone really looked wonderful.

Meanwhile, I am attempting to get my butt in gear and DO things so I worked a bit on one of my current projects today. Check it out!

This is my previously white hard hat, now painted all nice black along with my 'new' head lamp that dates from the 70's.

Here you can really see the patina and corrosion that has built up on the metal over the years. I'm probably going to replace the wiring because the cable is so old that it's stiff, dry and brittle but I'll leave the glass cause I actually like the crack.

After only a couple seconds with the wire brush on the dremel, you can already see a MAJOR difference. So happy!

Check it out! For some reason, I thought they only made guns. *lol*

Nice, huh? A bit of time and elbow grease and this baby looks so awesome!

And finally, what it looks like ON the helmet. I may change the attachment to something more secure but this is how it was originally, I only removed the old elastic that was disintegrating and put in new. The box is for the 5 D sized batteries, which means it weighs a bit.

I'm really having fun with this whole thing. Can't wait till it's all done! *bounces*

I'm A Slack Bastard!

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 05:46:11 GMT

Read the title? Yah, that's the whole point. I totally suck at blogging and a whole lot of other stuff, too. Lately it's been particularly bad because I have NO time to myself and I'm still not getting stuff done that I need to. Hopefully I can remedy a WHOLE lot of that this weekend...otherwise I'm totally screwed.

What have I been doing? Working. Current job pays well but it's pretty full on. So, I sleep (6 hours if I'm lucky), I go to the gym at work, I spend the day working and then I come home to try and get things done around the house before I try and get some sleep. Lather, rinse, repeat. *headdesk*

I get a few minutes to relax at night, sometimes, and usually spend that trying to catch up on emails or my books or playing my guitar (cause I suck and really want to play better but have no time to take lessons or anything).

Have to get ready for the upcoming Supanovas. That's tonight's plan...get on top of that stuff so I'm not kicked off the team for being a....wait for it....that's right, a slack bastard. *lol*

Costuming....done very little of that of late. No time. (funny that....) Thank god for ebay cause I do want things to wear to the cons and I have been buying a lot of the bits and pieces I need. No time to make things BUT I'm working my butt off so I have the cash to just buy stuff...meh, it sorta works out. :P

Hmm....do I say anything about my planned costumes? *ponders* Well, Melbourne will be seeing probably one new costume on the Friday and then Sat and Sun will see the reappearance of Lara Croft and Starbuck, most likely.

Brisnova...three new costumes. For those that don't already know what I'm wearing, you can just wait and see! :D All I'm going to say is that I will have either green, dark brown or pink hair depending on the day. Such fun!

I DID manage to take time out a week ago to go watch a movie. It was Friday the 13th (the date, no the movie) and right before Valentine's so we went and saw My Bloody Valentine 3D. *grin* I always loved the original (go Canada!) and the remake was pretty awesome. Classic slasher horror complete with blood, gore and ripped out hearts. And all in 3D! Which really did add to the fun of it all.

Did I mention I like horror films? (among others....) Yah, The Unborn is coming out soon and the ads look pretty creepy. Like a cross between Rosemary's Baby and The Ring. Looking forward to it. Oh, and of course, the new F13 film. Jason is back and killing stupid people! Woot!

Can't forget Watchmen, of course. Not like I haven't been sitting on the edge of my seat for it to come out. *fingers crossed* If it's even slightly as cool as I think it will be, I'll be in heaven.

'K, time to stop rambling like a sugar overdosed ADD child and get on with things. A big hello to everyone I haven't had a chance to talk to in a donkey's age...I haven't forgotten you guys, I just have no life atm. Hopefully I can get on top of things and that will change. (just don't hold your breathe, okay? 'cause I don't want to be at fault for putting bodies in the morgue)

Cheers!

X-posted to Myspace cause I can kill two birds with one rapidly-typed stone! :D

Loli Updates

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:40:07 GMT

Okay, it's official...I'm cheating. For lolifest on Saturday I'm wearing an outfit I already have! *lol* I have been trying to make a new one but things (or sleep!) have been getting in the way OVER and OVER again. Too busy with work and too tired out of work to do much else. *pouts*

So, I am going to wear a simplified version of my Steampunk Lolita. No top hat, no spats, no goggles....knee high white socks and mary janes, white bow in my hair. Very victorian-esque and definitely not 'sweet' anything. (has an almost 'Jane' feel to it this way, from Disney's Tarzan) :D I have so much fabric and plans FOR other outfits, just not the time nor the energy. Plus, I have at least four loli outfits that have only been worn once, the steampunk one being one of them. Time to stop being clothes whore and re-wear and outfit!! OMG!!! *shock, horror!*

Anywho, that's the plan. So look for the weird ass chick in green, gold and white. I may have fancy cupcakes.

Really looking forward to seeing what everyone wears! Must remember to bring camera and something to sit on, my parasol and a big jug of something to drink. Must remember everything! No brain farts allowed.

Meanwhile, I have made SOME progress on Brisnova outfits, but they're mostly in purchasing needed pieces. Gah! Need more sleep and more time! *dies*

Zaniness....Too Much Heat?

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 07:10:17 GMT

Okay, maybe this seems dumb but the heat has gotten to me, maybe. Or not. :D

I want to go ice skating. Yes, ice skating. I want to know who wants to come with me? *glares at cyan_witch* Don't know when, this weekend....maybe? Yes? Thoughts?

Oh yah, and speaking of skating...you all know I love cowboys, right? I think that's pretty well established with some people. Well, take a look at this!!!

*grin* 'Nuff said!

Blah!

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:09:38 GMT

I'm here and still alive. Just recouping from xmas and work stupidities. Will probably try and post something soon now that y brain is slowly starting to function again. Sort of.

Still have to plan and sew my outfit for lolifest! At least I've gotten the details finalized and posted in a couple places. Hope we have good weather. *fingers crossed*

Erg, work tomorrow. Did I mention I hate working? Blah!

Wednesday's Child

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 08:21:16 GMT

Ugh, what a weekend. What a week!

What's been happening?

Well, for one, as we get closer to xmas, work gets busier and busier so things are getting a bit nuts atm. But I am trying not to think about that as I have to go back tomorrow.

Thursday I got my dvd in the mail, which made me very happy! Then I watched and it was so beautiful, wonderfully shot and a lovely story. The dvd? It's called The Christmas Cottage. It's the story of the artist Thomas Kinkade from when he was a young man and how he got into doing the art that has made him so famous.

Friday I decided to take another step in the direction of getting in shape and losing weight so I returned to one of my earliest loves...the water. Working in Lidcombe, I am literally just around the corner from Olympic Park so i went and swam laps at the pool. It was really great, reminded me of why I used to be so fit and made me feel really good. Sore, but good. You know when you get that muscle burn that hurts but feels good cause it says you've been actually doing something? Yah, like that. The plan is too keep with, going at last once or twice a week and maybe upping that to three times if I can manage it.

Yesterday, I got dragged back out to the bush so Marco could try out the new detector. It was great fun! *no sarcasm was harmed in making this statement* THIS is how I spent the first part of the day, when I wasn't driving. Then, later in the afternoon, I decided to try and take some pics of things. The creatures in the area all seemed to have the same thing on their mind, though. Can you tell what? Here are my Frogs and my Blue Bugs.

Today, I vegged...but was a bit disappointed. My wonderful Vancouver Canucks LOST to those damned Edmonton Oilers. *pouts* All because Luongo was out with an injury. Not only is he the goalie, and an awesome one at that, but the team captain. The last time a team captain was the goalie in the NHL was n 1948. :) Anyway, because he wasn't in, the Oilers managed to get 3 goals. *mutters* Thank goodness there is another game on the 17th!!!! Go Canucks!

Anywho, I'm off to tidy my sewing room and maybe do some sewing, get some laundry done and *erk* prepare for work tomorrow. And maybe another swim. :D

EDIT: Yah, I'm an idiot. Just realized that I gave absolutely no reason for my choice of titles.

For those not aware, it is a reference to this poem:

Monday's child is fair of face.
Tuesday's child is full of grace.
Wednesday's child is full of woe.
Thursday's child has far to go.
Friday's child is loving and giving.
Saturday's child works hard for a living,
But the child who is born on the Sabbath Day
Is bonny and blithe and good and gay.

The original version, written and published in 1887, gives things in a slightly different order but this is the most well known and common version, with the days loosely based on the deities each day was named after.

I was born on a Wednesday. :)

Insanity & Pie!!!

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:08:01 GMT

Okay, so it's been pretty well established that I'm nuts. Right? Right.

So anyway, here I am, minding my own business and putzing on the internet when I got the most insane craving. A no, I am not pregnant. *rolls eyes*

I wanted pie.

I LOVE deep dish apple pie. It's a fave I don't have all that often but a huge one anyway. The ones in the shops are good but finding a home made one with lots of soft apple and cinnamon with a light, flaky pastry? Mmm, that''s heaven. Really. Just hand me the pan, the fork and step away from the pie. *lol*

What did I do about said craving? I went to Woolies and bought a deep dish apple pie and some french vanilla ice cream. At 9:30 at night. I know, bit nuts. Not too great for the diet either but it was PIE!!

Got home, put it in the oven, served it up and just enjoyed. It was so good and just what I wanted. *lol*

For those wondering, yes, the pie was freakin' worth it. :P

Hello & Sorry!

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 09:53:22 GMT

Well, I haven't been around much lately. Actually, I have but haven't. Been uber busy with work and all so between the need to sleep and my short attention span,, I haven't posted or done much of anything actually. So figured I just post a quick hi to everyone. :)

First, a quick sorry to everyone at the ACG picnic cause I know I babbled like a git, as usual. Sorry for any ears that were removed do to me ability to speak even underwater. *lol*

And big thanks to faerie_mistress I love my mug! I is drinking from it now. *lol*

So, now to go get some sleep so I can work like a dog again tomorrow. :P