Saturday, August 28, 2010
"Like" My Blog?
I recently added the ever-present Facebook "like" button to my blog. If you're a fan of me, my blog or clicking things with your mouse, do me a favor and let me know by clicking the button on the right.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Back To Work
It was a nice vacation, but today was officially my first day at the new job. My capacity to absorb information reached it's max around 2pm, after that I just felt like a pile of dead weight. I know that's how first days (weeks) usually go, but it's never fun starting at the bottom of your comfort level again.
I had the best time away from work, as you may have read from previous entries, but the show must go on. I'm happy to be working 8-4pm during my training, thereafter my start time will be somewhere between 10-Noon. Besides having a job in my field again, the best part is being treated like an adult, at company that doesn't run like a cross between a nazi prison camp and a 1st grade art class (i.e. "You have just received half an occurrence for arriving over 4 minutes late." "Great job today, here is a gold star with a smiley face for recognition of your efforts!").
Anyway, did I mention it's my favorite time of year? The Minnesota State Fair kicks off this Thursday, and then we've got the Renaissance Festival... throw in Halloween and the start of the hockey season and I'm one happy camper.
I had the best time away from work, as you may have read from previous entries, but the show must go on. I'm happy to be working 8-4pm during my training, thereafter my start time will be somewhere between 10-Noon. Besides having a job in my field again, the best part is being treated like an adult, at company that doesn't run like a cross between a nazi prison camp and a 1st grade art class (i.e. "You have just received half an occurrence for arriving over 4 minutes late." "Great job today, here is a gold star with a smiley face for recognition of your efforts!").
Anyway, did I mention it's my favorite time of year? The Minnesota State Fair kicks off this Thursday, and then we've got the Renaissance Festival... throw in Halloween and the start of the hockey season and I'm one happy camper.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
First Impressions: Bayonetta
Holy crap is this game a lot of fun. I'm the first to admit, I really don't enjoy the Devil May Cry series either. Something about having to punch, kick, dodge, switch weapons, dodge, jump etc. that was a little too frantic for me. Bayonetta comes from the same mold, but brings a things to a new level; both technically speaking and pure enjoyment. I'm playing it on Normal and I'm not great, however, it doesn't choose to punish me for that reason. The game seems to want you to be better, rewarding you with better treasures, trophies etc. which is all well and good. It's still frantic, but like a three ring circus, there is so many cool things going on it's hard to know what to be watching. More to follow.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Review: Ghostbusters (The Game)
Ghostbusters has been out for quite awhile, but do to my gaming budget and my luke-warm interest level, I put off playing it until recently. I was able to find a copy for just under $16.00 and at that price it was worth a shot.
The game is a rarity, when you consider that all four original cast members agreed to voice the game. Not only voices, but music and character animations go a long way to make it feel authentic, almost immediately. Without a doubt, this is as good as it going to get for fans of the movie looking to pick up a proton pack.
The game delivers around 6-8 hours of solid game play, moving along a decent pace and never becoming tedious. There is plenty of different gadgets to use, items to hunt and ghosts to bust. I found the entire experience quite relaxing, and even giggled a few times at the clever dialogue and banter. Even the achievements are creative, each taking lines from the movie i.e. "Aim For The Flat Top!"
I can't see anyone paying $60 for this, but I definitely recommend it as a bargain bin gem to pass a few hours. I purchased Ghostbusters at Gamestop and completed the game in 7 hours, collecting 29 of 50 achievements for 540 gamerscore.
The game is a rarity, when you consider that all four original cast members agreed to voice the game. Not only voices, but music and character animations go a long way to make it feel authentic, almost immediately. Without a doubt, this is as good as it going to get for fans of the movie looking to pick up a proton pack.
The game delivers around 6-8 hours of solid game play, moving along a decent pace and never becoming tedious. There is plenty of different gadgets to use, items to hunt and ghosts to bust. I found the entire experience quite relaxing, and even giggled a few times at the clever dialogue and banter. Even the achievements are creative, each taking lines from the movie i.e. "Aim For The Flat Top!"
I can't see anyone paying $60 for this, but I definitely recommend it as a bargain bin gem to pass a few hours. I purchased Ghostbusters at Gamestop and completed the game in 7 hours, collecting 29 of 50 achievements for 540 gamerscore.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Mini-Vacation: Day 4
Our final day started with picking up a paper and heading to breakfast at Day By Day. They are "famous" for good food and fantastic patio seating. (photo). We got seated right away and the food was delicious. After fueling up, we make a quick stop at home to load the bikes and hit the road for Menomonie, WI.
It takes about an hour to get there, but the Red Cedar trail was definitely worth the trip (photo). It also gave me time to read my book a bit, in hopes to finish before days end. Not only scenic, but very ride-able, as all of the 14 miles were rode we completely flat (photo). The weather was mild and breezy, people few and far between, a perfect setting for a ride (photo).
The ride home found me nearing the end of my book; "The Girl Who Played With Fire" the second in Stieg Larsson's insanely popular trilogy. Once home again, we paused briefly to enjoy a few bites of our farmer's market pot roast and then it was off to see the film adaptation of "The Girl ..." at a old school theater on Grand Ave.
For the uninitiated, the movie(s) was/were made in Sweden and thus subtitled in English. They are dark, gripping, violent and portrayed by a bunch of actors I've never seen before. Obviously having read the book, I was a blown away by how many things the movie left out. I realize this is not uncommon, but still, I just can't recommend seeing the movie before reading the book. In a world full of Twilight and Harry Potter, it's awesome to have these books to really sink your teeth into. Sidenote: I'm also willing to bet the hottest new baby name is now Lisbeth.
Anyway, It was an amazing string of days we put together. I was sad to see it end; which is another reason why I blog. It's a great way to not only share experiences, but relive and preserve them just a little bit longer.
It takes about an hour to get there, but the Red Cedar trail was definitely worth the trip (photo). It also gave me time to read my book a bit, in hopes to finish before days end. Not only scenic, but very ride-able, as all of the 14 miles were rode we completely flat (photo). The weather was mild and breezy, people few and far between, a perfect setting for a ride (photo).
The ride home found me nearing the end of my book; "The Girl Who Played With Fire" the second in Stieg Larsson's insanely popular trilogy. Once home again, we paused briefly to enjoy a few bites of our farmer's market pot roast and then it was off to see the film adaptation of "The Girl ..." at a old school theater on Grand Ave.
For the uninitiated, the movie(s) was/were made in Sweden and thus subtitled in English. They are dark, gripping, violent and portrayed by a bunch of actors I've never seen before. Obviously having read the book, I was a blown away by how many things the movie left out. I realize this is not uncommon, but still, I just can't recommend seeing the movie before reading the book. In a world full of Twilight and Harry Potter, it's awesome to have these books to really sink your teeth into. Sidenote: I'm also willing to bet the hottest new baby name is now Lisbeth.
Anyway, It was an amazing string of days we put together. I was sad to see it end; which is another reason why I blog. It's a great way to not only share experiences, but relive and preserve them just a little bit longer.
Mini-Vacation: Day 3
Day three began with a quick breakfast at home and gathering a few things before heading out to the St. Paul Farmer's Market. As usual, the market was ripe with fresh produce, sunshine and people wandering like cattle. We made it out alive with all the ingredients needed to make our dinner for Sunday, a pot roast in the slow cooker.
Next it was off to Red Wing, the so-called best day trip destination according to City Pages. The drive was a little rough, considering we missed the one (and only) turn we needed to take somehow. Regardless, we drove quite awhile in the wrong direction and finally arrived in town considerably later than planned. Our first stop was Memorial Park disc golf, a scenic course set atop a bluff in downtown Red Wing (photo). It turned out to be pretty cool, despite the fact that the course guide indicated it had restrooms, which upon inspection, were boarded up. Here are a couple more photos of us on the course (photo) (photo).
After golf, we ate downtown at completely deserted Lucky Cat Lounge. The food was a bit underwhelming and the same can be said for the service. The rest of Red Wing didn't do much for me, personally. We walked, we shopped, we explored the vast collection of antiques, stoneware and boots and then we headed home.
Our dinner seemed to be affected by the same funk. We made reservations for a late 9pm dinner for the patio at W.A. Frost, only to have it start raining at 8:55pm as we pulled up in the car. They tried to accommodate us by moving us inside, but the place was so busy I decided that the thrill was gone. After accepting our defeat, we made our way to The Twisted Fork, which turned out to be perfect. By the time we arrived, it was nearly 10pm and unlike Frost, the place was completely empty. Our drinks were great, the food was delicious, and it was a perfect way to end our not-so-perfect day.
Next it was off to Red Wing, the so-called best day trip destination according to City Pages. The drive was a little rough, considering we missed the one (and only) turn we needed to take somehow. Regardless, we drove quite awhile in the wrong direction and finally arrived in town considerably later than planned. Our first stop was Memorial Park disc golf, a scenic course set atop a bluff in downtown Red Wing (photo). It turned out to be pretty cool, despite the fact that the course guide indicated it had restrooms, which upon inspection, were boarded up. Here are a couple more photos of us on the course (photo) (photo).
After golf, we ate downtown at completely deserted Lucky Cat Lounge. The food was a bit underwhelming and the same can be said for the service. The rest of Red Wing didn't do much for me, personally. We walked, we shopped, we explored the vast collection of antiques, stoneware and boots and then we headed home.
Our dinner seemed to be affected by the same funk. We made reservations for a late 9pm dinner for the patio at W.A. Frost, only to have it start raining at 8:55pm as we pulled up in the car. They tried to accommodate us by moving us inside, but the place was so busy I decided that the thrill was gone. After accepting our defeat, we made our way to The Twisted Fork, which turned out to be perfect. By the time we arrived, it was nearly 10pm and unlike Frost, the place was completely empty. Our drinks were great, the food was delicious, and it was a perfect way to end our not-so-perfect day.
Mini-Vacation: Day 2
Day two started with breakfast at The Little Oven. I had some oatmeal and cinnamon french toast and Angie had Eggs, Toast and Bacon. The Oven is one of those old school restaurants that has reasonable prices, large portions and friendly service, at least I've been told. :)
After breakfast, we stopped by a friend's place that was having a moving/garage sale. We chatted a bit while keeping an eye on the sky as severe weather was in the forecast. While we didn't get rained on, we decided that it would probably be best to stay close to home for the remainder of the day just in case. With that in mind, we decided on hitting the Mall of America for bit.
With no real agenda, we first stopped into Air Traffic and picked up Angie a new disc for disc golf. We wondered around for a bit more, window shopping here and there. I noticed that Xbox had a huge Kinect exhibit setup for people to jump around and look like idiots. Personally, I'm not really sold on the whole idea but time will only tell.
After the MOA, we hit Chevy's for some delicious tex mex (photo). I especially enjoy their salsa and fresh take on mexican cuisine. I'm tired of ordering food and getting a runny, cheesy plate of slop; and trying to identify my different items swimming around somewhere in the briny deep.
We then headed back near home to try out the new disc at the Highland Park course. We played a few holes before the rain started coming down, effectively ending our game.
After a brief rest at home, we went out to meet some friends for a quick happy hour at Salut (photo) before calling it a day.
After breakfast, we stopped by a friend's place that was having a moving/garage sale. We chatted a bit while keeping an eye on the sky as severe weather was in the forecast. While we didn't get rained on, we decided that it would probably be best to stay close to home for the remainder of the day just in case. With that in mind, we decided on hitting the Mall of America for bit.
With no real agenda, we first stopped into Air Traffic and picked up Angie a new disc for disc golf. We wondered around for a bit more, window shopping here and there. I noticed that Xbox had a huge Kinect exhibit setup for people to jump around and look like idiots. Personally, I'm not really sold on the whole idea but time will only tell.
After the MOA, we hit Chevy's for some delicious tex mex (photo). I especially enjoy their salsa and fresh take on mexican cuisine. I'm tired of ordering food and getting a runny, cheesy plate of slop; and trying to identify my different items swimming around somewhere in the briny deep.
We then headed back near home to try out the new disc at the Highland Park course. We played a few holes before the rain started coming down, effectively ending our game.
After a brief rest at home, we went out to meet some friends for a quick happy hour at Salut (photo) before calling it a day.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Mini-Vacation: Day 1
As the title suggests, today was the first day of our 4 day mini-vacation. We started the day with breakfast at the Egg and I restaurant. Angie had eggs benedict (her favorite) and I went with oatmeal and a pancake. After our meal, we headed out on the road for Taylor's Falls and ultimately Wild Mountain. It was a perfect day for waterslides and fun in the sun, I think the temp was around 92? Hot. Anyway, I hadn't been there since I was a kid, Angie had never been.
After Wild Mountain we headed toward home for an early dinner at The Blue Door. We each grabbed a Summit Oatmeal Stout on tap, for only $2.00 during happy hour I might add. Besides the brew, the "blucy" burgers were fantastic. Although the place is small, you can't deny the tastiness and the value, I highly recommend it.
Next, we were off to Como Park to play a leisurely round of mini golf at Putter There, a small but welcoming little course right across the street from Como Zoo. Neither one of us got a hole-in-one; blame it on the heat. After golf, we took the 1.6 mile stroll around the lake and packed it back in the car shortly after.
Finally, we ended the day with a fresh-baked scone and fruit at Cafe Latte's. Desert is definitely the best thing about eating dinner early, yum.
After Wild Mountain we headed toward home for an early dinner at The Blue Door. We each grabbed a Summit Oatmeal Stout on tap, for only $2.00 during happy hour I might add. Besides the brew, the "blucy" burgers were fantastic. Although the place is small, you can't deny the tastiness and the value, I highly recommend it.
Next, we were off to Como Park to play a leisurely round of mini golf at Putter There, a small but welcoming little course right across the street from Como Zoo. Neither one of us got a hole-in-one; blame it on the heat. After golf, we took the 1.6 mile stroll around the lake and packed it back in the car shortly after.
Finally, we ended the day with a fresh-baked scone and fruit at Cafe Latte's. Desert is definitely the best thing about eating dinner early, yum.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Wake Up And Smell The Spolsion, Man!
Alan Wake
I finished the horror/thriller/action title Alan Wake about a week ago, including the first down-loadable episode called "The Signal." This game really struck a chord with me. The story is a bit hard to follow but undeniably intriguing. The combat is satisfying albeit a bit of a breeze after the first few hours or so. The best parts of the game revolve around the twists of story, memorable settings and the fitting soundtrack. The worst parts of game are the annoying jumping/platforming segments, repetitive combat scenarios and the lip syncing during the cut scenes. I highly recommend this game, especially for jaded fans of Silent Hill.
Spolsion Man
I finished the platformer Splosion man a couple days ago, thank goodness. This game is long, difficult, and a complete test of one's persistence and/or patience. Notice, I didn't use the words fun, rewarding etc. Do you enjoy playing levels over and over? Hitting 6 buttons correct and dying on the 7th press (only to die on the 8th soon after). Swearing at your TV? Fighting annoying boss battles? If you answered yes to any of these, would you kindly download this game? Bottom line, while I do appreciate that this type of game has loyal, passionate fan base, I also appreciate that the game does actually end at some point and I was able to see it.
I finished the horror/thriller/action title Alan Wake about a week ago, including the first down-loadable episode called "The Signal." This game really struck a chord with me. The story is a bit hard to follow but undeniably intriguing. The combat is satisfying albeit a bit of a breeze after the first few hours or so. The best parts of the game revolve around the twists of story, memorable settings and the fitting soundtrack. The worst parts of game are the annoying jumping/platforming segments, repetitive combat scenarios and the lip syncing during the cut scenes. I highly recommend this game, especially for jaded fans of Silent Hill.
Spolsion Man
I finished the platformer Splosion man a couple days ago, thank goodness. This game is long, difficult, and a complete test of one's persistence and/or patience. Notice, I didn't use the words fun, rewarding etc. Do you enjoy playing levels over and over? Hitting 6 buttons correct and dying on the 7th press (only to die on the 8th soon after). Swearing at your TV? Fighting annoying boss battles? If you answered yes to any of these, would you kindly download this game? Bottom line, while I do appreciate that this type of game has loyal, passionate fan base, I also appreciate that the game does actually end at some point and I was able to see it.
Monday, August 09, 2010
New Look, New Features
I recently updated my blog design and page elements. It's not much, but I think it's a little easier on the eyes and I'm enjoying the the new features:
- You can now add "reactions" simply by clicking the box below my post(s). I still encourage you to leave me a comment, but if you're feeling lazy, just click a box won't you?
- You can also click "labels" to instantly jump to topics of interest (movie reviews, personal, etc.)
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
Summertime Rolls
My days in the call center are finally over, and not a moment too soon. I start my new Prepress/Print position on Monday, August 23rd. I'll be working for a franchise in South Mpls, about 15 mins away from home. 8-4pm training to start and then shifting to somewhere between 10-Noon start time each day. I'm really excited to be back in my field again, and after only a year and a half (!).
I've got all my stuff moved in to Angie's now, if only the bank would get their heads out of their asses I could be done with my house, finally. Besides the house drama and the new job anxiety , the summer has been pretty great. Even more greatness on the way next weekend; Angie and I are planning 4 days worth of day trips. We haven't settled on specifics yet, but we're thinking of hitting some bike/hiking trails near Red Wing and/or Lanesboro.
Last weekend we went to the Circus Jueventas peformance "Sawdust". It was a throwback to the golden age of circus, loosely inspired by Water For Elephants. I really enjoyed the show, however, the seats were extremely uncomfortable, especially after hour number two. Regardless, I was really impressed and look forward to going again to see what they come up with next.
I've got all my stuff moved in to Angie's now, if only the bank would get their heads out of their asses I could be done with my house, finally. Besides the house drama and the new job anxiety , the summer has been pretty great. Even more greatness on the way next weekend; Angie and I are planning 4 days worth of day trips. We haven't settled on specifics yet, but we're thinking of hitting some bike/hiking trails near Red Wing and/or Lanesboro.
Last weekend we went to the Circus Jueventas peformance "Sawdust". It was a throwback to the golden age of circus, loosely inspired by Water For Elephants. I really enjoyed the show, however, the seats were extremely uncomfortable, especially after hour number two. Regardless, I was really impressed and look forward to going again to see what they come up with next.
