Time For an Energy Burst!

Sometimes, there's moments in life when you need a pick-me-up! Someone to encourage & remind you that life is amazing, wonderful, fun and worthwhile.  Consider that moment now! 
I found this footage & wanted to share! Get up & join them!
Balance humility with an "If I was you, you'd wanna be me too..." attitude. That means being confident in yourself without the need for anyone else's approval--and without knocking someone down. Keep it strong, keep it kind, keep it classy--always.

You are worthy! 

Such a beautiful thought!

Trust...because life is wonderful!

I hope that you were inspired to feel great about yourself! XO


 

Add it to Your Reading List: The Darwin Elevator by Jason M. Hough

While at this year's Comic Con International Convention, I was lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time and not only acquired a copy of the book The Darwin Elevator, but was also able to meet & briefly chat with the author, Jason M. Hough, while he was signing my copy of the book! What I'm also grateful for is being introduced to a book I probably would have never had the opportunity to read since I usually gravitate towards the Contemporary Romance genre in my reading choices. But I do have a love for Sci-fi and have always enjoyed "out of this world" stories.

This story has some interesting characters in it.  There's Skylar, the unreluctant hero who must lead his crew but would probably rather not and who has the "gift" of being "an immune" but has fantasies of being just like everyone else. He's the main star in this book--flawed, exciting--and I found myself wanting to follow him wherever he was supposed to go.  There's Tania, a beautiful and brilliant scientist, that has to get passed her own insecurities to discover some truths. Skylar has this need to protect her and as a reader, I think it was easy to feel that way too. As a romantic, I loved the subtle hint of a romance between the two characters.  There's Neil Platz, aaaaah, you'll just have to read about this one...what side is he on & what's his deal? Then of course, there's Russell Blackfield--this character you may just love to hate...or just hate & hate.

Here's some noteworthy reviews of the book:

“A hell of a fun book.”—James S. A. Corey, New York Times bestselling author of Abaddon’s Gate

“[Jason M.] Hough’s first novel combines the rapid-fire action and memorable characters associated with Joss Whedon’s short-lived Firefly TV series with the accessibility and scientific acumen of [James S. A.] Corey’s ‘Expanse’ series.”—Library Journal (starred review)

“The best part about alien stories is their mystery, and Jason Hough understands that like no other. Full of compelling characters and thick with tension, The Darwin Elevator delivers both despair and hope along with a gigantic dose of wonder. It’s a brilliant debut, and Hough can take my money whenever he writes anything from now on.”—Kevin Hearne, New York Times bestselling author of The Iron Druid Chronicles

“Newcomer Hough displays a talent for imaginative plotting and realistic dialogue, and the brisk pacing and cliffhanger ending will keep readers enthralled and eagerly awaiting the next installment.”—Publishers Weekly

“Jason M. Hough does a great job with this huge story. The world of Darwin and the Elevator is deliciously complex and satisfying. Skyler, Tania, and all the other characters are delightfully drawn and fun to spend time with. . . . The story unfolds with just the right balance of high adventure, espionage, humor, and emotional truth. . . . As soon as you finish, you’ll want more.”—Analog

“A debut novel unlike any other . . . This is something special. Something iconic. The Darwin Elevator is full of majesty and wonder, mystery and mayhem, colorful characters and insidious schemes.”—SF Signal

“Fun, action-packed and entertaining . . . a sure contender for science fiction debut of the year!”—Pat’s Fantasy Hotlist

“Claustrophobic, intense, and satisfying . . . I couldn’t put this book down. The Darwin Elevator depicts a terrifying world, suspends it from a delicate thread, and forces you to read with held breath as you anticipate the inevitable fall.”—Hugh Howey, New York Times bestselling author of Wool

“Hough writes with irresistible energy and gritty realism. His puts his characters through hell, blending a convincing plot with heart-stopping action and moments of raw terror as the world goes crazy in the shadow of unfathomable alien intentions.”—Sara Creasy, author of the Philip K. Dick Award–nominated Song of Scarabaeus

“A thrilling story right from the first page . . . This book plugs straight into the fight-or-flight part of your brain.”—Ted Kosmatka, author of The Games

“If you enjoy high adventure with a kick-ass crew, I suggest you take Hough’s Darwin Elevator for a ride.”—Warren Hammond, author of KOP Killer

Source: Amazon 

This book is the beginning of a trilogy.  The next book in the series is The Exodus Towers. And the final book is called The Plague Force. 

If you lead a book club, enjoy Sci-fi, and/or just want another suggestion to go on your reading list, give this book & this author a chance! 

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44 Random Questions

I found another one of those random questionnaires on one of my Social Network's newsfeed & thought, well, I haven't done one of these in a while so why not? I've found that I'm a bit of a goody-two-shoes in my life choices so don't expect anything super edgy. LOL! If you care to share your answers with me, feel free. Contact me through any of my Social Media connections or comment below. 

Because a "Happy Life" as a goal is not a bad thing.

44 random things...

1. Do you like blue cheese? No 
2. Ever smoked? No
3. Own a gun? No
4. Favorite flavor? Chocolate! or CHOCOLATE!
5. Do you get nervous before a doctor's visit? Always
6. What do you think of hotdogs? Delicious, even though I know they're bad for me.
7. Favorite movies? Many! But I love "Return to Me", "Avatar", & "Planet of the Apes"
8. Morning drink of choice is? Definitely coffee, with cream...or milk & sugar.  

My life theme in a nutshell. ♥

9. Push ups? Uh...no
10. Favorite jewelry? Wedding ring, bracelets my boys give me...I love jewelry in general.
11. Favorite hobby? Reading, writing, taking pictures. But most of all, I love spending time with my Husband and two boys...whether it just be going out to eat, going for a walk or traveling!  
12. Do you have ADD? No
13. One thing about yourself you dislike? I'm sensitive & will close off on people very quickly. I'd like to be less guarded, but it's a challenge.
14. Middle name? Go
15. Three thoughts?  I wish desserts were healthy. I want to meet kind people only. I love, love, the Huz & my sons! 
 16. Three drinks you enjoy often? Coffee. Lemonade. Water.
17. Current worry? Overall health & safety of my Huz & sons.
18. Current annoyance? Politics
19. Favorite place? Besides home...I love Orlando Florida, San Diego, & San Francisco.
20. What do you do for new yrs? Celebrate with my family.
21. Like to go? Absolutely!!!  Adventure awaits!
22. Three people who'll do this? It's posted in a blog, so the amount of participants are endless! C'mon, do it. It's fun! 
23. Do you own slippers? Most definitely!
24. What color shirt are you wearing? Black
25. Satin sheets? No. But I'm also not opposed to it.
26. Do you whistle? No. 
27. Favorite colors? Blue & yellow
28. Act like a pirate? Yes, why not? LOL!
29. Songs you sing in the shower? I don't understand why this has to be specific. I'll just answer "Yes!"
30. Favorite girls names? Elektra (LOL!), Snow.  I never think of girl names. Sorry. LOL!
31. Fave boys names? Quinn, Liam, Connor, Seth
32.:In your pocket is? Nothing. Glad it didn't ask what's in my purse!
33. Last thing made you laugh? The Husband most probably. 

Because he says things like, "Oooh, take a picture" & has zero concerns about looking like a dork. ♥

34. Best toy as a child? Cabbage Patch Doll
35. Worst injury? A motorcycle burn on the left side of my knee on my right leg. The scar maintains itself to the memory.
36. Would love to live? New Zealand. Looks so beautiful on TV.
37. # TVs? Just one, in our living room.
38. Loudest friend? My sister-in-law, R.  
39. # dogs? None
40. Does someone trust you? Well, I would certainly hope so.
41. Current book reading? The Darwin Elevator by Jason M. Hough (I have a signed copy from the author!) But I'm always reading something. Here are my "Literary Favorites". 
42. Favorite candy? Snickers & Ghirardelli
43. Favorite sports team? What's that? LOL!
44. Favorite month? February, March, August & October 

That was fun! Now that you've found out a little bit about me, I'd like to hear a little bit about you! Please share...
Jokes are always a good way to end anything...so here it goes...

C'mon, let's do it!

In closing & in honor of question #9 above, 

And #4, because CHOCOLATE!

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Shine the Spotlight on The Fold

When people think of theme music for an animated cartoon, most probably don't think too much about the artists making the music. If it's catchy, it may get you singing it under your breath at weird moments of the day.  And if other people are around you, they may ask, "What song is that?" And then you have to mutter, "oh...it's from...um...Lego Ninjago". "The what?", they'll probably say. Here, let me show you....
My kids & AFOL husband are huge fans of the Cartoon Network series Lego Ninjago. So naturally, I see and hear about all the aspects of the show whether I'm asking about it or not. Fortunately for me, it's a great show so I love watching it with the guys and seeing & hearing their enthusiasm. And an added bonus? The show has a great theme song performed by a solid music group!  Let me just say, I'm thankful for The Fold.  They are a super talented group who put together great music for a cute little cartoon show. Throughout the years the show has been on air, they've revised the theme song to fit into the season's theme. They are no-doubt, the musical voice of the show. And I listen to them. On my own. Because I like them!  And yes, I'll belt out this song every once in a while...sorry if you're within earshot. Check out their YouTube channel to see & hear more of their work.

Thanks to the husband, there's now some buzz about getting The Fold to perform at next year's Lego Ninjago panel at Comic-Con/SDCC. I'm joining the unofficial campaign! I think it would be awesome to see them rock it out live!  Are the Powers that Be listening? Because here we go...we want The Fold! We want The Fold! We want The Fold! **Pumping hands in the air**.

Go to The Fold/Cartel to buy stupendous The Fold/Ninjago merchandise! I have to say the t-shirts are quite stylish.

The Fold....check them out!

And just for fun...here's something random to hopefully make you laugh...

Enjoy life! XO 

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Geek Family Comic-Con Adventures 2016: Days 3 & 4

Our Comic-con adventures continue...
Day 3: I really wanted to take some awesome cosplay pics.  But I learned something about myself...I'm super picky when it comes to cosplay! Who knew?  In order for me to WANT to take a picture I had to like the costume and feel that it was as close to the original as possible. No disrespect to all the amazing cosplay participants.  They were all wonderful for making the effort! Comic-con would not be the same without all the amazing characters walking around!

Blade! Loved this guy! He had a place for his sword right in the middle slot of his leather jacket!

So then I head on over to the DC Booth & it's completely bumpin'! The crowds are gathering, & I'm like, "What's happening?" I look up & there's the cast of Suicide Squad! They're so beautiful!!  And yes, I was squealing & jumping up & down. Stop judging!!

So, in their honor, I went behind bars for a second....just for a pic. 

And then there's this worthy cosplay to round out the day...

This 1960's Joker was completely in character the whole time! If it wasn't Comic-con, I'd be creeped out.

Day 4 (final day): Our last day here will be embedded in our memories forever.  We attended three panels and each one was very special. But first, we squeezed in some last-minute sightseeing.

The businesses around the event, knew their audience. Why not cater, right?

It's the Batmobile! Very cool!

This is a statue from the Batman Vs. Superman movie. The boys were excited to see it!

The first panel we attended was the Lego Dimensions panel. This is where we were able to see some sneak peaks of upcoming characters and hear some detailed information on Year 2 of the game.  Some great revelations were made and the guys enjoyed getting a first-look at the graphics and themes that will be coming out soon. This is a great game that the whole family can enjoy.  As a Mom, I don't have to worry that my kids are being bombarded by inappropriate content that is often the prevailing theme in video games.

Crowded Lego Dimensions panel. But we're good to go!

The next panel was the Lego Ninjago panel. This was super fun consisting of the creative directors, writers, one voice actor, model creators and marketing representatives.  Hearing about all the behind-the-scenes that take place to put a show like this together is extremely fascinating. They leave a bit of room at the end open for questions and what's awesome is that it feels like they really value what the fans think.  They've changed story directions because of majority opinions and polls & over the years have taken great pains to make sure they close the gaps in the overall story arcs as well as provide some semblance of continuity.  These fans are smart.  They notice things that don't belong.  My youngest son asked a question that got a huge reaction from the room & because of it, we might see his name mentioned on a future episode.  How exciting!

These are the Brothers Hageman, the writers for Lego Ninjago & a huge inspiration for the boys.

The last panel was for a relatively new show called Lego Nexo Knights.  The format was similar to the previous panel and even brought over some of the same main players. It's especially cool to hear about how vehicle models are created and the evolution it takes til it finally reaches the end product.  I can't help but admire the enormous creativity of the team.  The biggest stand-out was meeting voice actor Vincent Tong who voices Kai in Lego Ninjago and the quirky villain, Jestro, in Nexo Knights. This guy was truly a class act: charming, funny and accommodating to all the genre's crazy fans--of all ages. He graciously took a picture with my son and spoke to him as well.  I'm officially a fan.

With Vincent Tong! Thanks for the picture, man!

And finally, some additional favorite cosplay pictures:

Hagrid!

Game of Thrones!

All things must come to an end...but the precious unforgettable memories we made over these past 4 days will be with us for a lifetime. Thank you, San Diego Comic-con!

Geek Family Comic-Con Adventures 2016: Days 1 & 2

We were fortunate to be able to attend this year's San Diego Comic-Con International for all four days this year! If you're familiar with the lottery system of the Comic-Con ticketing, you can appreciate that being thankful is the only way we should be.  And we are!!

Day 1:  First day at Comic-con is quite the unique experience when you're a novice at the whole fanatic Pop Arts Culture scene. Technically, we're not exactly novices, having gone to Comic-con before, but it's still an overwhelming sight to behold.  The crowds are endless! And it's amazing & awesome.  And being the person that I am, I just want to take it all in and appreciate everything! We started off going to a Lego line in order to get a ticket for a daily exclusive offering.  That's a big buzz word at Comic-con: exclusive.  Basically, get it here or find it on Ebay for triple (or more) of what it cost. And since I have 3 guys who are collectors, just having toys that are "exclusive" to add to their collection is golden.

If you look closely, these Teen Titans have been mashed with Game of Thrones. Funny!

We attended the Teen Titans Go! panel.  Right in front of us were the producers: Aaron Horvath and Pete Michall as well as the actors who voice the beloved characters: Greg Cipes as Beastboy, Scott Menvile as Robin, Khary Payton as Cyborg and Tara Strong as Raven.  Unfortunately the actress who voices Starfire wasn't there (she's one of my favorites).  But the panel itself was so much fun to be a part of! They were very animated (no pun intended...or do I?) Again, it's such a joy seeing people do what they love to do while entertaining masses of people. It was certainly a highlight of my day.  They showed us a never-before-seen episode (schedule to air in August) and they talked about some of the many behind-the-scene happenings.  There were many comedic revelations from the actors and it was weird to hear their voices NOT coming out of an animated character.

The two on the end are the game directors for Lego Dimensions...a favorite of my guys! They were ecstatic to meet and talk to them!

The Exhibit Hall for Comic-Con is a sight to behold and is something difficult to fully comprehend without witnessing it & being a part of the action yourself.  There are a multitude of vendors from all walks of the pop arts.  Naturally, my guys gravitate towards the Lego area which is one of the most popular booths in the enormous Hall. But they also took part in the gaming area and various other genres including DC, Marvel, & so much more!

The boys love Batman and Lego...so Batman Lego is Boss!

Yeah...so we took a felfie with Lego Batman!

Day 2:  The excitement continues but we've now got our sea legs and have some semblance of a plan to maneuver throughout our day.  We've got goals, people! 

But first, I have to take a moment and take a picture with my partner-in-life and love. ♥ San Diego is beautiful!

Then it's time to get our tickets for Lego exclusives and Minifigure giveaways.  The only caveat is that there are huge lines for a CHANCE to get these things. It all sounds completely insane to people who are not into this scene, but "normal" is relative to who surrounds you, & believe me, this was NORMAL. LOL! ☺ What's entertaining is sometimes hearing strange conversations all around you of people geeking out about whatever they like. I love being surrounded by happy & joyous people and hearing & seeing enthusiasm all around me was super fun!

I don't think this picture accurately captures the excitement these three had when they got their Minifigures.

We attended the How It Should Have Ended panel located inside the San Diego Public Library right within the Gaslamp District. Fun panel including some never-before-seen videos. The best part though, is hearing these creative & brilliant people speak about their journey and feeling inspired by them.

My son was so excited to take a picture with this very creative HISHE team!

And to add to our already amazing day...

We were walking around and the Ecto1 just stops right in front of us! WHAT??!!  Well, thank you very much!!

So thankful for these two days...cherishing every precious memory!

A Few Liquid Refreshments to Review

Coincidentally, I was sent three products for review from PinchMe and Premier Protein arriving on the same day. I thought, perfect, I'll review them all in one post. ☺ All three products are drinkable but very different from one another. The products are: V8® Veggie Blends, V8® + Energy Orange Pineapple Lightly Carbonated, and Premier Protein Shake. Once again, these products were sent to me free of charge, but my thoughts are entirely my own. Here are my honest reviews of each product.

V8® Veggie Blends: Carrot Mango

When I saw "Carrot Mango" as the flavor for review, I was admittedly very apprehensive about it.  I'm not a stranger to juicing and even own a juicer but my visceral instinct is to find the combination of veggie and fruit strange.  But since I'm ever the optimist, I just went for it & gulped it down. This particular flavor did not speak to my taste buds.  I found the after taste a little strange.  There's a "hint" of mango, but I found myself wanting to chase that flavor. You know, that feeling of, "I want more of that...just that.." It didn't give me enough of a reaction to want to seek it out in the future.  It's not awful though & overall it was refreshing.  But with so many choices & options out there for quenching juices, I prefer to keep searching. My boys would drink this.  Did they find it amazing and would they seek it out independently? No.

V8® + Energy Orange Pineapple Lightly Carbonated

There are so many options out there for "energy" drinks.  Most have huge amounts of caffeine and have questionable effects on one's health.  This product claims to come from green tea, provide a serving of vegetables & fruit, B Vitamins and no artificial colors & flavors. Knowing all this, I feel more comfortable drinking this than the drinks that have loads of caffeine in them.  How about the taste? The best way I can describe it is that it has a "fruity kick".  I could taste the hints of orange & pineapple and the carbonation gives it that "soda" feel. I actually enjoyed it.  Mixed reviews from my boys.  My 10-year-old took a sip & immediately liked it. He would take this drink over the previous one.  My 13-year-old didn't enjoy it.  His response was, "nah". He would choose the previous drink over this one.  To each his own.

Premier Protein Chocolate Shake

This is a fun drink to review because my guys outnumber me on this one.  I personally thought the drink was too thick, too sweet. Meanwhile, all three guys kept saying, "YUM!"  My 13-year-old said this was his favorite of the three drinks. Again, it's worth a try if you're looking for a protein packed drink shake with lots of flavor.  The shake has other flavors including vanilla, strawberries & cream, and caramel. I can only imagine how sweet those flavors would be--and I can imagine how my guys would enjoy them if their affinity for the chocolate flavor was any indication. So, it was a miss for me and a hit for my 3 guys.

Let me know what you guys thought of these drinks, if you have the chance to try them.
#ProductReview