Meet the AZ Famille - Jace the Cat

This here is Cammie's adorable cat, Jace. Who apparently has a big common interest as his Jersey cousin, my cat Stitches. I walked into my room today to find Jace turning a box into a playset, and it just reminded me of my baby back east.

Notice his laid back appearance on camera? That's because he's already a talented young actor. He was also the co-star of the short film: "Joey's New Playmate."

WARNING: Video contains adult language. Just a disclaimer for the kiddies.

Afterwards, be sure to check out the outtake reel! Definitely fun!

Entertainment #2

Instant Moral of the Story - "Inaccurate teasers, trailers, and advertising can make you miss out on a good film."

I've probably not seen many movies that I would otherwise enjoy because of what the marketing team decided to show the masses. I'm very glad that Gran Torino crawled across enemy lines, and convinced my mind to say "yes" for a viewing. I probably would've snubbed what I thought was an "all-action, no plot" film.

But like it's main character, Gran Torino is a beautiful story of family and sacrifice beneath a tough, gruff exterior.

Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) is a Korean veteran in the midst of dealing with the loss of his wife, his estranged relationship with materialistic family members, and a Korean family for neighbors. He tries to distance himself from the world, going about his life with just himself and his loyal dog. He's your perfect image of a mean old man on the porch with a shotgun. But in a moment of what I blame to be deep set morals, he helps the neighbor's daughter and changes both his and their lives for the better.

What I was most impressed with overall was the plot. Again, marketing did nothing to help. In times such as these, the country really needs to see a good, solid story of human emotion overcoming the worst. All key characters in this film are having troubles in some form, and the way they ultimately come together despite prejudices and conflict is inspiring.

Everyone knows how I feel about realism, but it helped the story instead of hurting it this time around. Nothing about this story felt remotely like fiction, which made the senses of hope and overcoming obstacles all the more believable. Letting things stand in your way is easy - the death of a loved one, trying to fit in, finding who you are and peer pressure. The difficult part is beating the odds stacked against you. While some of the solutions portrayed in the film come across as harsh at times, it still shows that nothing is impossible, and things always happen for a reason.

Characterization is a strong point in this film, particularly for Eastwood's character. Walt reminds me of a crude, asshole version of my grandfather (who was the most kind, genuine person I knew). He has his way of thinking and views of a world against him. Yet, he manages to touch the lives of people willing to get passed the harsh facade. He doesn't take shit from anyone, will tell you like it is, and still manages to point you in the right direction.

Which leads me to Thao, the neighbor's son. After Walt catches the boy trying to steal his most prized possession - a 1972 Gran Torino - for a gang initiation, Thao's family makes him work for Walt, as is a traditional Hmong penance. Walt works Thao like a dog, and in the end, shows him how to grow up and become a good man. I won't give away the ending, but putting it vaguely, Thao truly earns Walt's respect and becomes a man he never thought he could be.

There's only so much that I can put into words, as each moment of the film culminates into quite an impressive finale. But if you were like me, put off by the gritty action, I recommend that you put that aside and check out Gran Torino. You will not be disappointed.

The Hero of Time by BMB Finishes

I'm going on a job interview today. I need happy, pretty vibes that hid during that previous post below. Funny thing is, the interview's at GameStop and this slightly ties in!



This is a film based on my favorite game series, "The Legend of Zelda," by the independant company BMB Finishes. Been following this gem since I first happened upon the trailer on the almighty YouTube. Been dying to see it, but there's currently only one way possible to do so: convincing them to do a showing in your town. The film already premiered in Atlanta two weeks ago, and before they release it online or DVD, they want to show it off in a few more cities.

Come on, Arizona! Get them to premiere it in Phoenix or somewhere inbetween where we can all be happy. There's got to be Zelda fans out there in this vast open desert mountain land! =) It's as simple as signing up here on their HoT SPOTS page. This is a way for them to see where the most demand is. Fight for us, get Hero of Time here! Look at that trailer again to convince yourselves! Yay Zelda!

Faith out =)

Never Talk Politics and Religion...

...I guess it had to happen sooner or later.

I'm not a fan of politics, people. I never have been, and never will be. I registered to vote simply to have valid reason to be pissed off in the people's eyes. Think the only thing stopping me from being any kind of radical is the fact that I have parents who raised me with a good heart, a sound mind, morals and yet still allowed me to have a big mouth. =)

I was also told never to lie, and have learned why the hard way. So I just don't see the point in trying to figure out "Who's going to lie to me less?" It's not a stereotype; it's fact. People were very happy to see the first African American president in their lifetime. I'd be more proud to see the first politician of any race and creed who tells the whole truth before I die.

The good ship Obama's been hitting one too many bumps for me to stay on the boat. I sat and watched his inauguration speech just like the rest of America did, hoping against hope that he would mean every word. So far, he's let me down at least three times, and he's only been in office for 6 months. F***.

1) Childishly getting pissed off with a news channel. Christ, really? Just about every politician before him has had problems with the media. Did they get whiny about it? That's a risk of living in a country that has freedoms of speech and press. We're allowed to give our opinions, right wrong or indifferent! This is the very definition of nonsense, sorry. You're in the spotlight, expect people to have opinions about you and don't hate on the negative.

2) Defending the Defense of Marriage Act. This was brought to attention by a dear friend. Yeah, I'm straight, but I do have gay friends and family. I was raised in a country that, above all, was taught to believe in equality. I believe in a loving, caring God who has a very bad press rep from bible pushers who toss the word of MAN around like it's going out of style. Laws like DOMA that allow states to not recognize a marriage of love simply because they are the same gender is wrong. President Obama is proud to call himself a black man; his race was treated horribly for years. Who the hell is he to sit there and defend something like DOMA when it encourages the very same prejudices and hate that his race endured? He had gay and lesbian support from day one; he promised to help them get what they deserve! This is bull shit, plain and simple. The man is being a hypocrite, and it's not fair.

3) Yeah, so how about those ice storms in Kentucky a few months back? ...what? You never heard of them? Well, hot damn, they were pretty damn destructive, like Katrina was. My family there was without power for quite a long time. ...what? Obama wasn't there? He was having a Superbowl party?? Oh how silly of me, didn't mean to interrupt that. I thought it was only in high school that jocks get all the love over arts and education! Forgive me, I didn't mean to be so stupid...

...and yet...George Bush was ridiculed for not getting down to New Orleans quickly enough. Hmm, that's strange. At least he had the dignity to show his face, therefore making the media more aware of the situation. President Obama didn't even show up, and the media barely - if any - talked about Kentucky. Does that really seem fair to you?

-sigh; checks the calendar- Well, we have 3 1/2 more years of this. There's always room for improvement, and God, I hope he takes advantage of it. I've finally got the hell out of Jersey; don't want to see it all be for nothing if the country goes to shit. I want to see the change that he promised, but I'm not known for being patient. Still, I got my comfy chair and popcorn right here. Anybody want some? -waits for it, munching away-

Entertainment #1

Funny thing happened on the way to Arizona...well, not that funny, as it's part of my every day routine. Barnes & Noble is like a second home, something that hasn't changed in the coastal transfer. The only difference is that I haven't actually bought anything from our local B&N just yet. Anyway, I'm off track now.

I like to have a few books on me to make time pass on various trips, and this one was no exception. One of my last "final splurges" was the newest novel about my favorite DC Comics' boys, Batman and Superman. We're talking actual novel, not the graphic kind that is more common to Bats and the Big Blue Boy Scout.

Ever since reading the novelization of Batman's No Man's Land series - written by Greg Rucka - I really enjoyed having a book about these characters without images right in front of me. While I love the graphic novels, having a novel is a whole different day at the ballpark. With one of these in hand, you're forced to come up with your own imagery in your mind, which is always a lot more exciting. Enemies & Allies was no exception.

As both a reader and a blossoming Batman fan returning to her fandom roots, this book impressed me. In terms of writing, Kevin J. Anderson did a remarkable job in blending both history and the fiction. Reading his author blurb on the back cover, he doesn't say whether or not he's actually written any comics pertaining to the characters. But if he hasn't, he certainly fooled me. DC's characters have so far been the most complex bunch I've seen. They've been around for years, with so many different writers taking a shot at them, and therefore, there are tons of different versions and origins that have been explored. It can be quite intimidating, but Mr. Anderson handled them like a pro.

What really impressed me was the setting, and how it was used with the characters. This particular story has been set during the 1950s, around the time of the Cold War. In the 50s and the 60s, the media was handled much differently than it is now, especially when it came to comic book heroes and other children oriented entertainment. Everything on television that wasn't a news broadcast was happy-go-lucky and "Everything is wonderful! Let's sing a song!" Batman, Superman, et all were the Superfriends instead of the more serious Justice League of today. I'm still surprised to this day that Adam West, our 1960s Batman, was even aware of his dark and gritty backstory. The gray plot of upholding justice as a vigilante following the death of his parents doesn't necessarily fit in with the solid black & white, good vs evil view from the era. The average reader would almost expect a similar interpretation to be done here in order to fit the time frame.

All I can say is, this isn't your Adam West and George Reeves interpretation, kiddos, not at all. Mr. Anderson nicely brings the modern day views beautifully into a 50s setting. Bruce Wayne isn't sitting there with Clark Kent going "What do we do now, Superman?!"

The pair's first meeting is outside the Luthor Mansion just after Batman escapes with important information. Superman intervenes, and sees Batman as a thief. Batman wonders if Superman in actuality works for Lex Luthor. There is uncertainty, debate over whether or not one can trust the other. Not until later chapters do the heroes meet again and make their reluctant decisions to trust each one another. There is the familiar hesitant friendship that we see today, due to their contradicting views on justice and the law. But at the same time a mutual respect for the other's beliefs briefly causes them both to think twice. All this set in a believable 50s era, it's wonderfully well done.

My other favorite part about this novel is the portrayal of Superman. In this day and age when realism and believability is at the forefront, I have seen Clark get put on the back burner, deemed "too perfect." Here's a man who has god-like powers due to his Kryptonian heritage. His only weaknesses are coming in contact a mineral from his home planet and magic. On top of that, he's perceived as such a goody-two-shoes that he annoys some of the modern-day fans who prefer dark, gritty, gray heroes like Batman. With my frustrations about placing realism on comic book characters and the like, obviously I think it's very unfair.

But in response to that, I suggest heavily paying attention towards the end of the book, specifically Chapter 63. Kal-El [Superman] decides to push his limits. He soars towards the very edges of space to see exactly how human-like he is. He's perfectly fine, the dangerous atmosphere that can kill a human being not bothering him whatsoever. In fact, he's using the sun's rays to recharge himself considering the excitement of the story's battle finale. Then, Mr. Anderson wrote these words:

"He was an alien, after all. No one had been here to teach him. He had no comrade to give him advice, no other Kryptonian to tell him about his heritage, his strengths and weaknesses [...] Kal-El might have been different from them...but all people were different from one another. Yet even with those differences, they all shared a common bond. And Kal-El--Superman--would always stay there to protect them."

How many people have found themselves in the same situation? The kid in school who was teased because he didn't fit in with the crowd. The new neighbor from out-of-town who is still learning about their new surroundings. The adopted or foster children who aren't sure if they should try to fit in to their new families. Hell, I fit into the first two categories. That's as real as it's going to get, and I thank Mr. Anderson for bringing that aspect of Superman's character into the light. Beneath the seemingly perfect exterior, he has hard times just like the rest of us. The difference is, he is the man that many people should aspire to be: good, honest, and brave.

Enemies & Allies comes completely recommended, even for non-comic book fans. If you have any chance to pick it up, do so.

Faith out. =)

Things I've Learned #1

While I may be very opinionated, you'll hear me rave and rant a lot, this little place on the Web is about adjusting life and learning things that are now different from before. Maybe some minor, maybe some major. Either way, if I notice anything different, or I'm taught anything different, I'm going to make a note. It'll help me remember, and with any luck, it'll be interesting to hear. So let's get started. =)

Things I've Learned - Episode 1
(Star Wars references, easiest to use...)

• "What's this 'cold cuts' you speak of?" - One of the more humorous things I think I learned on Day 1. We had gone into Wal-mart to pick up essentials that I needed, but didn't want to try and sneak passed airport security with all the new rules. In Jersey, meats and cheeses you get from the deli are called cold cuts. Here in Arizona, it's...well, deli meat. Real original, right? In this case, I think Jersey wins. Cold cuts just seems more creative.

• "Stay away from the intersection!" - Ladies and gentlemen, I learned to drive in Jersey. -bows and relishes the applause!- If you learn to drive there, you can drive anywhere. But of course, the minute I learn to drive, I have to give it up. However, that doesn't stop my learning. In Jersey though, to make a left-hand turn, they encourage you to pull into the intersection and then make your turn. In Arizona, you so can not do that. Left-hand turns are celebrities here. They have their own personal lane, and in the majority of instances, it's own personal arrow light. You wait for that light, or the safest opportunity if there is no arrow, and then you make your turn.

• "Red means stop! Limit means limit!" - You'd think that's universal everywhere, but only in the ideal world. However, Arizona cracks down heavy on their red lights and speed limits. There is no "I just made it!" at lights and no "Well, I'll go a tiny bit over, just a little!" with the limits. The cameras and places that officers hide will catch you, and you will go down. I've even heard stories about people from across the country getting tracked down for a speeding ticket, simply because the camera caught them. It's very simple: you 'brake' it, or you pay it.

• "The wide open spaces..." - This is one change that I actually like. Jersey is very "tightly packed together," and can feel a little crowded. It's not a bad thing, hell, New York is even more congested, and I love it there. But I'm really liking the spacious feel of Arizona too. You have your little residential communities to give you the suburban feel. Outside of that, after a slight drive, you have the businesses and malls, which are huge and have just about anything you could possibly think of. Some indoor (Superstition Springs and Chandler Fashion District), some outdoor (San Tan Village). Everywhere inbetween and for miles around, you have a beautiful backdrop of mountains and desert (lots of cactus, lots and lots of cactus). Heck, it feels like we practically have mountains in the backyard. Behind my aunt's house is the San Tan mountains, gorgeous view from the 2nd floor. Maybe that's the real reason I want an "upstairs" in the new house, to have a pretty view!

There's your lesson for the day! Quiz next week; Faith out.

Very Opinionated #1

My blog is hardly a day old before I feel the need to rant about something I found on the internet. That certainly didn't take long. I guess aside from sarcasm, I also won't be losing my adamant, passionate nature out here in the West.

It all pertains to this, and barely has anything to do with the article itself. (Although a) Moxie Crimefighter just screams what Mistah J and Harley would name their kid to spite Batsy and the entire GCPD, and b) I have friends who make a living at Disney. I assure you, this Cinderella imposter is asking for her ass to get handed to her by the Mouse Powers that Be.)

What's bothering me is some of the comments. How parents are suddenly up-in-arms regarding little girls wanting to look up to the princesses, especially considering that many parents today grew up with the likes of the new age, "girl power" princesses like Belle, Jasmine, and...well "princess-at-heart", Mulan.

I'll admit, some of it's bothers me too. I'm a huge, huge fan of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. I was 7 years old when the film first came out. It's the only movie to date that I saw 3 times in movie theaters alone, and I think there's only one Japanese tourist who has beaten my 76-time record in seeing the musical before it closed.

Yes, it's depressing that the only merchandise you can get for the movie solely involves Belle. (The movie is called Beauty AND the Beast, after all.) But what's worse is that they've turned her into something that she isn't. Belle was the first Disney girl to break the mold of "I'm waiting for my prince! -sigh!-" and just wanting more out of life. Not to mention she was a bookworm, which parents should be thrilled about. Now, she's just being portrayed as one of the girls, primping and prettying herself, and wearing that ballgown 24/7/365. Fans have even found her gardening in it lately. Really, Disney, honestly? This woman could've been the poster child for feminism in the early 90s, and you just threw that out the window to compete with the Bratz dolls? Even Barbie had more integrity.

I guess what it all boils down to is how you view the different sides. On one hand, I understand that Disney is a business and has to go where the market is, even if I disagree. (Believe you me, I can write a novel about the things that irk me about them, despite still loving the company.)

But on the other hand - and coming in for the landing - why can't parents tone down the reality a little bit? I said it the other day on my facebook: reality is overrated. Even some reality TV is scripted and complete bull sometimes. Why has the need for realism affected the current mentality of people so much that if something isn't realistic, it must be the enemy? And why would we let it affect our future generation?

Kids don't think of fairy tales and fiction in terms of historical accuracy, the price that comes with being royalty in real life, or whether things could really exist. All they see is something special and maybe a little magical. Something that puts a smile on their face. In my opinion, that's all they should be seeing. Taking away something as beautiful and precious as a child's imagination and creativity - even if it's dressing up to be as pretty as their favorite princess - is just plain cruel. "Thou shalt not steal," remember? It's a mortal sin!

It's a tough lesson that I've learned, that we've all learned. One day, they'll grow up, and they'll see what reality is. They won't ask you to read them that story because they'll have too much homework. They won't go on magical adventures in the backyard because they'll have bills and expenses to pay. If they retain an ounce of that imagination and inner child, they'll be one of the lucky few.

Parents, businesses, let children be children. It doesn't last very long. You blink once, and suddenly it's all gone. It's not fair to shove realism down their throats and rush them into the world when they aren't prepared to do so.

Faith out.

Saguaro Lake Video

The blog cam visits Saguaro Lake, May 2009.

Hello & Welcome! - Blog Day 1

As if the title doesn't say it perfectly...yeah, that Jersey sarcasm will probably never go away.

Hello, and welcome to my new blog! Name's Faith and I'll be your host for your following visits! Many of you are family and friends stopping by - hopefully - to follow day-to-day life. But for anyone that isn't (thank you, internet!), I'll let you know a little about me and what to expect.

Yes, I'm originally a Jersey girl. Yes, I moved to Arizona very recently. No, I don't have an accent, and I will make you pay me $20 bucks before I say certain words. (What can I say? 25 years of Jersey life will teach you easy ways to make some cash, LOL.)

But in all seriousness, with a new life comes a way to remember how it all started and how it goes on from here. I came out here a couple of weeks ago, and my family back east is sure to follow. It's a time to start anew.

You'll get to see a lot of my experiences here, as Arizona is quite a state to explore. Who knows? Maybe you'll be inspired to visit some of the places I hope to include here. I already have a video in the making about one of my first exploration spots: Saguaro Lake. So stay tuned for that!

Not to mention, I'm a writer by nature, and anything and everything that I like to talk...er, write about, I will. My interests include a great many things. They're like the music on my iPod - the most eclectic group of favorites ever, ranging from musical theater to comic books. Watching them adapt to west coast living should be interesting.

That's pretty much it for a welcome. Until next time, I leave you with my most well-known words of farewell: Faith out.