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 Summer Drawl (Open)

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PostSubject: Summer Drawl (Open)   Mon Jul 23, 2012 5:56 am

Back in the slums, where it all began. The seal to pandora's box snapped the moment the good doctor had been killed, and she went on a wild goose chase, only to get her sai stolen. The other half was missing, and it pissed her off. She was far too stubborn to just get a new one, since they carried a strong sentimental value of once belonging to her father. They were the only blades she'd ever really use, and what she was best at besides being fairly versed with other forms of weaponry, firearms included. She was back in the slums, throwing back a shot that made the animal growl with distate. She didn't care. It was her night off, after a long day of patrolling.

She wasn't in the best of moods. Flecks of gold peeked into her arctic hues, as she watched the rowdy men play their card game. There was something so classic to their shoddy appearance, and caps that cast shadows over their eyes. Cigar smoke puffed a thick cloud above the center of the table. All around, people were loud, and she thought she heard someone break a beer bottle because they were pissed. Someone was always angry, as long as it wasn't directed toward her. Bree was calm, despite her irritation. She was anonymous in the pub, hair long and wild after being grown out. They swept more to one side, and over her face even, as she leaned against the counter, not yet taking a seat despite being here for well over ten minutes.

It was hard to leave work behind when she was always watchful. Those arctic orbs were just observing, even as she tapped her slim fingers along the counter for another shot. She didn't wear her uniform, or looked like she had any authority whatsoever, but her favored gun was strapped inside her leather jacket, sleeves rolled up to her elbows. Underneath was a blank tank top, and long dark blue jeans wrapped around her legs before disappearing into knee high, fashionable boots. The next shot came her way, and she carelessly tossed it back without an expression, save the slightest twitch to the corner of her right eye from the strong taste. It took a lot to get the werecheetah drunk. The shifter blood ran fiery in her veins, and she was already feeling the temperature beneath her leather jacket.

Last edited by Bree Donahue on Mon Jul 23, 2012 1:37 pm; edited 1 time in total
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Mon Jul 23, 2012 8:58 am

The healing scar in her side still burned whenever she twisted the wrong way. No, it wasn’t the brunette that had given her another battle memento, but she was part of the organization that had. Lana stared with a steely, unwavering green gaze across a crowded, smoke hazy room at the woman who was part of the reason the werewolf was sequestered in this shoddy little bar. Ever since the Terran Guard and that other group of fucks had barged into the scientist’s lab, Lana had been under close scrutiny with her superiors. Metaphorically she was in the dog house for losing the android.

Lifting the medium sized crystal tumbler from where it sat, half full with cubes of melting ice and vodka, she sipped languidly at the liquor. Over the stench of stale cigar smoke that lingered in the air, she could distinctly pick out the scent of feline from everything else. Her aroma was different from the werecat that Lana already knew, but no creature would smell exactly as another, even if they were the same species or something close together.

Downing what was left in her glass, the werewolf pushed back her chair to rise. The scrape of wooden legs across a wooden floor drowned out by the loud raucous that the other patrons of the bar were making. Her sensitive ears picked up each of the conversations that were going on and shifted through them one by one out of simple curiosity. She often wondered what the hard laboring class of Librium’s bottom dwellers discussed when they weren’t working or at home beating their families.

Approaching the bar on Bree’s left Lana grabbed a vacant stool as someone stumbled away from the counter in search of the restroom. She motioned to the tender to freshen her drink as she settled in, looking both ways down the counter. What’s wrong, guardswoman…someone stole your catnip? Her Russian accent was laced with an undertoneof both contempt as well as a bit of playful banter. Her newly filled glass before her and she lifted it to her lips for the first drink. Looking across the space of a few feet at her query as she sat silently brooding; lamenting over something that made her brows pull in an angry frown between her eyes.
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Tue Jul 24, 2012 12:37 am

Regardless of her cheetah senses already tingling, Bree felt a pair of eyes watching her every move. From where, she couldn't exactly tell since she was busy moping - for only a little while. Bree spent too much time at headquarters, more than she did anywhere else. She practically lived at the Terran Guard base, and her closest friend was her partner, Mitch. She had little to no "girl" time, which meant few female friends unless they were other guards and potential foes. A moping Bree was a rare feat for anyone really, but she was here, on her own as she figured out a way to get back her missing sai. Plus, she had nothing to do. Free for the night, she was going to figure out how to entertain herself before returning to base...

She could try to seek out the one who'd bitten her. It didn't matter to Bree about establishing a connection, but to see the one responsible for turning her into a werecreature. What was she going to say? The guardswoman had a sense that she might swing before speaking, just to get that out of the way before carrying on a conversation. It would be like an awkward family reunion, like what she would think meeting an estranged relative would be like, but would the one who bit her be considered a parent-figure?

Shaking that out of her thoughts, she tapped the counter for another shot. She didn't bother asking what she was getting. She knew it was one of the strongest the creaky tavern had to offer. The bitterness kept her grounded to reality, as she mulled over personal issues - like her missin sai's, her lack of a social life, and how she practically devoted all of her time to nothing else, other than training. Mitch might find that unsettling, and robotic. She wasn't really one to open up and talk anyway. When the shotglass was slide her way, a scent overrode the others, causing her nostrils to quiver. Flecks of gold appeared in her arctic hues, as she looked away from the dark liquid in her glass to the redhead that appeared by her side.

Bree could recognize Svetlana from anywhere. Their first meeting had been during that fiasco in the lab. This was either purely a coincidence, or she'd been tailed. Animals had their own distinct scents that set them apart from others animals, but the human coat had their own as well, which could stir up some confusion. Bree, however, recognized the woman and werewolf as one. "If only that was the case." She replied after a long moment of observing the redheaded Russian. "Are you lost?" A slight twitch of a smile touched her lips before she took her shot.

Last edited by Bree Donahue on Mon Jul 30, 2012 12:25 am; edited 1 time in total
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Tue Jul 24, 2012 9:26 am

Lost? Net. I come here whenever I’m not working. It just must be my lucky day that you showed up. Not likely to get any exciting conversation from anyone else. So Lana toasted her female companion and drained her glass of the clear, fiery liquid inside. When she was finished the tender immediately swept the tumbler away, dropped in some fresh cubes and topped it off with the same vodka she always drank. Lana wasn’t sure of the name, nor did she care, so long as it wasn’t any of the watered down, overpriced shit that the other patrons got.

I don’t see any of your friends here. Like the old guy from the lab. I need to thank him for the little souvenir he left me. With her free hand she rubbed her left side, which was newly healed after having a bullet extracted from her small intestine. Thank whatever Gods were listening for the healers at Umbra; else she might not be sitting here now. And I’ll thank you for fucking up my mission with the android, she pointed at Bree while holding her drink as it was on a trip back to her mouth for a sip. Getting back to my superiors without that stupid robot, I felt like a child who got caught stealing from the cookie jar.

Flynn had understood her reasoning behind abandoning the android; however his colleagues hadn’t been of the same mind. She grimaced at the thought, and then pushed them to the back of her mind where they could do less damage. By the way, how did that end? Who got the girl? Calling that thing a girl was stretching the word since it could do things that normal girls could not. But kudos to the mad scientist for choosing such an unintimidating packaging for his android and Lana had liked the bright red hair too. She was partial to redheads though; unconsciously she fingered one of her own red curls.

Net = No
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Sat Jul 28, 2012 6:58 pm

Bree actually laughed. "If you wanted excitement, then I'm sorry to disappoint." Bree said. The feline pressed to the surface, casting flecks of amber in her turquoise hues as she watched Svetlana. The guardswoman was off duty, and Svetlana appeared to be as well. A toast was returned with a toast of her own. Getting drunk wasn't easy for a werecreature, since their metabolism burned everything within seconds. Bree was constantly hungry, especially for meat. Food sounded great, now that she thought about it, but she could eat later... or hunt. Currently, the redhead had her interest as well the drinks the bartender were willing to supply the both of them. After all, the taverns in the slums didn't often garner the interest of two beautiful women.

She rolled her eyes when Kale was brought up. Friend, more like superior. He was old-school, while she was... just Bree. "I have a life too, and is that right?" She lowered her vibrant gaze to the location of the wound. As she rubbed her side, Bree chuckled, "if it makes you feel any better, your friend bested me again. Not only did he take something of mine, but he had me breathing in those disgusting fumes." She made a face immediately, hating the moment he slit open her suit that the noxious fumes irritated her skin and had her clawing for a way out of that suit. The cheetah didn't like the sudden bout of claustrophobia at all.

She raised a brow, "I should thank you too. You guys left us a mess to clean up when you left. Crazy robot bitch and sick doctor, wetting his pants. Not to mention that he threw up on my suit." Her smile was wry when Svetlana spoke about her superiors. Kale hated failure also, and whenever a mission went wrong, his mood plumetted to the furthest regions of hell. She was glad for not being on the recieving end. And that android? No one knew exactly what the hell happened.

She shrugged then, "I don't know, but good riddance." She could say that now, but in the end, she might have to go on a searching spree again. It depened what the superiors thought, and what they wanted. She shook her head, "so nothing went as planned, you here to actually have a good time, or are you wanting something else?"

Last edited by Bree Donahue on Mon Jul 30, 2012 12:23 am; edited 1 time in total
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Mon Jul 30, 2012 12:14 am

Pretty girl like you could never disappoint, she smirked and winked, shaking her glass so the cubes of ice stirred within the clear liquid. Shoved against the bar as a body stumble into the space that separated Lana from Bree, the werewolf growled low and yanked her arm from beneath the person. The man was obviously drunk and she could smell the alcohol seeping out of his pores in heavy volumes. That mixed with his body’s pheromones and he was like a walking 16 year old with a constant hard-on who had gotten into his parent’s liquor cabinet.

She grunted and rolled her green eyes as he flagged down the tender for another beer, leaning back slightly to eye Bree over the man’s back for a split second. Finally when he left she grabbed the edge of her stool and jumped it closer to Bree; closing that space between them so that no one was able to shove their way in. My friend? The men with the nerve gas and flash bombs? Lana laughed out loud now; the sound feminine and melodic in a way that her personality was not. You are mistaken, koshka. Those were not my friends. I do not work with teams if I can help it.

Draining the last of her vodka, Lana smirked while laughing somewhat bitterly at her revelation about the android, Now see, had you and the others not interrupted me, I would have the android and Terra would be a safe place again. To some extent, until Umbra decided what they would have done with the robot. I’m here looking for anything. I am terrible with social interaction so for me a ‘good time’ has many different meanings. What about you, koshka? What brought you here? Nothing too pleasant since you still have that frown pulling down your brow.

Lana reached over and pressed a finger into the space between Bree’s eyes. She rubbed the area tenderly until the muscle relaxed or until the feline batted her hand away. Her outfit was the typical color scheme though she was not dressed for work. Dark colors befitted the redhead and helped her to blend more with the darkness that she so favored. As the tender approached again to refill her glass, Lana placed a hand over the empty tumbler and instead order him to bring her two shot glasses and the bottle of the vodka he had been feeding to her since she’d been there. It wasn’t long before she was filling the two requested shot glasses and passed one to the brunette beside her.

Since we are both off duty, lets enjoy it, da?

Koshka = Cat
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Thu Aug 02, 2012 3:56 pm

Bree was glad that she didn't have to worry about some homicidal robot, at least not for now. It wouldn't be long for the Terran Guard to be called in again. She could feel the budding irritation. It wasn't that she didn't like her job, in fact - she loved it. She could've been with a different task force, like for Bastion for instance, but she had a better calling with TG. Plus, they were more acceptable of her condition, which she still kept under wraps for the most part. She was still fairly new to the werecreature thing. It'd been less than a year since she'd been bitten, and she had yet to find her maker. She might have to at one point or another. The curiosity was going to eat her up if she didn't do anything about it, and how many other cheetahs were around anyway?

She had an inkling of were this cheetah might be, and that didn't put her in much of a better mood. With a shake to her head, Bree slid her arctic gaze to the redhead. The compliment made her blink, before her wry smile softened, looking a lot more genuine than before. They were both off duty, which meant no use for any hostilty or rivalry. A body stumbled in between them, causing Bree to frown with irritation. She could smell the alcohol off of him, and whatever sore excuse for soap he used. Her nose wrinkled as the cheetah within reared back, wanting to lash at the stranger's intrusion. He made his order, completely unaware of the two, or feeling rather accomplished that he was between them.

She shook her head with a faintly amused smile, a clear "what the hell" question painted her features when she made eye contact with Svetlana. She could've just shoved him, but what was the use of that? In the end, he was minding his own business. He moved away once he got his beer, and the gap closed between the cheetah and wolf. Her laughter was surprisingly feminine, and didn't sound all that bad considering Svetlana's tough appearance. She could snap necks with just a tap.

"Ah... I guess that explains it." She smirked then, "I would hate to speak badly of your people." Her tone had lightened considerably, and the Russian nickname was starting to rub in. She looked to her shotglass, deciding that she should have a crystal tumbler of her own, but filled with the hardest whiskey, no ice. She didn't like watered down alcohol. They were too unpleasant for her sensitive tastebuds. She grabbed her glass, to swirl the dark amber drink. If this was the best they'd got... then hopefully, she won't drop dead from the first sip. As she listened, she tried her drink, before grimacing at the absolute bitterness. The spice was a kicker though, so that made up for the shoddy taste.

"Don't we all?" she said about making Terra a safe place, "I think we both have similar ideas going on, just executed differently." She lowered her glass, as she leaned comfortably against the counter. She shrugged, "I'm not an expert on talking to people either. I usually send them running in the other direction, if I can help it. But you... you're still here." She grinned, "and about that frown... I'm thinking about ways to take back what is mine, with good vengeance too." She almost growled, but more in a feline way that had the faint hiss to it.

She blinked when Svetlana pointed out her frown. The light press of her finger against the flesh between her eyes made her cross her eyes a moment. "Keep that up, and you might not have a finger anymore, wolf." She said in a light tease - at least her attempt of a jest. She wasn't the most feminine woman either, and they both were donning dark colors of "badassery" stitched to their backs. As she sipped her hard whiskey, she glanced down to the shotglasses sliding down their way after Svetlana's order. A bottle was present as well, and somewhere in the recess of her mind, her mother warned her about mixing light and dark drinks.

But that was when she was human. Bree chuckled as she set down her glass to take up the newer, smaller one. The sharp odor of vodka caused her nostrils to flare when she took a breath, and she glanced over to the werewolf with a toast. "Why don't we? To... new friends?" The cheetah asked, before taking the first shot with a companion.
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Wed Aug 08, 2012 5:25 pm

My people are always spoken badly about. So what you say or think makes no difference to us. Lana downed the shot with gusto; tossing the clear liquid into her throat and letting it burn its way down into her stomach where it settled. Your idea of protection and my idea are two different ideas. You want to save the world. I don’t have any sort of illusions that I’m capable of that. When finally Bree had downed her shot, Lana refilled both of them again. The more alcohol she imbibed in the easier it was becoming to sit comfortably and carry on the conversation.

You expect me to get up and run? Koshka, I am not so easily frightened. Down went the shot and she plunked the empty glass back on the bar while cleaning around her lips with her tongue. Do you forget that it’s the dogs that chase the cats up the trees? She teased her drinking companion, clinking glasses together when Bree made a toast to new friends. Of course. Novye druzʹya! A third shot down the gullet; the burn having subsided a short while ago so that the vodka rolled smoothly down to her stomach.

Vengeance says you? What sort of vengeance? And against who for what? Now she was interested; turning on her perch so that she faced Bree and tilted her body against the bar. Being socially awkward (when sober) didn’t mean that Lana was disinterested in the people around her; it was just difficult for her to connect with others when she was raised to be a private individual. Alcohol tempered her inner fears, just as it was doing now. Each time she and Bree finished a shot, Lana would pour another one and the bottle would slowly drain whenever they drank one. Though she might not have the constitution of a Dwarf and she might not drink like a sailor, still she could hold her own.

Do you need help? I’m pretty good at taking things back that don’t belong to someone. She was better at killing. But when there was a special something that needed to be procured, then she did that too…just not as often.
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Sat Aug 11, 2012 7:16 am

Who would've thought that the slums would be THE place to meet and make... new friends? Off duty, they could be respectable acquaintances, but when work returned and put them back in line, that line of friendship might end up crossed. Bree already knew the harsh ordeal - having seen friends turned their back on friends when the need benefitted them, or others that paid them well to do so. Bree believed in keeping her words, and her honor in tact. The Terran Guard may have her allegiance, but they didn't guide how she should live her life.

If she was going to drink and make merry with a werewolf, then so be it. She might as well take advantage of the time they'd have together, before circumstances might pull them apart into a diffeent scenario altogether. Soldiers, mercenaries, guards... they all had to make room for that side of life that was too unpredictable for their own good. The alcohol sloshed around in her stomach as well, the heat pressing along the surface of her skin as her body started to digest the alcohol at a rapid rate. If she consistently drank and downed the shots in record time, she might even feel that buzz.

She smirked, "save the world, we must." she began as she lifted her shotglass after the refill. "and in our own special way... something's good in ya, wolf." She said as she leaned her hip against the counter. She took the vodka shot, and winced involuntarily. The taste was different from the whiskey she was used to, but she could manage in time. Alcohol, in the end, was alcohol and it would have the same effect of getting her inebriated if she drank enough.

Bree laughed, "touche, wolf! touche! That was a good one..." She waggled her finger playfully, feeling warm and fuzzy around the edges. Bree was in lighter spirits, the only time when alcohol was involved. She snickered, and set to pouring the next shot this time after the declaration of being new friends.

Ah, vengeance. She had a catlike sneer at the word, as she leaned in close, arctic eyes playfully glancing about for any signs of eavesdropper as she slid the glass over to Svetlana, and then held her own. "You see, I was made a fool of by a man, and not just any man. He was there at the android fiasco too, cut my damned suit open and had me breathing in those fumes - which by the way, really blows."she narrowed her eyes as a growl laced her town before she relaxed.

"But he took something that is precious from me. Very, very precious and I have any intention of getting it back. If he ever has a change of heart, and decides to return it on his own, I'll still kick his ass." The werecheetah said before leaning away and clinking her glass against Svetlana's."I'm not surprised with how you good you are with what you do. I'll consider this offer... it's not every day that a cat and dog would work together. Sounds like a bad cartoon, but a good idea." Bree chuckled. It was the closest to a giggle Bree could muster before she took another shot.

"So Svetlana," Bree began, "will this be a challenge to see who will drink who under the table? I would find it being a long, long way from now... You must have other plans other than hanging with dear old me."
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PostSubject: Re: Summer Drawl (Open)   Wed Aug 15, 2012 10:17 pm

Save the world? No. Her head was shaking in denial of that statement. Lana wasn’t trying to save the world from any bad guys. If one thought about it long enough, she could be included in that category as well. Not only for what she was, but also because of what she did for a living. I’m just trying to get by one day at a time without killing everyone. She winked and downed another shot. Killing by contract helped the werewolf to ease her conscious of all the deaths on her hands. Allowing the redhead some peace at night when she laid her head down. If she killed for a cause then who could judge her for them? She was not exactly a murder. So the only thing good in me is… when she couldn’t think of anything, Lana shrugged and poured out more of the clear liquid for herself.

As Bree started on her monologue about the reason for her vengeance, Lana sat forward a little. She appeared in completely rapture as she brunette spoke; giving the appropriate responses at all the appropriate times. She couldn’t comment on the part of being made fool of by a man. Lana knew very few men and none of them had enough power to make her look like the fool. Oh da. Those gas bombs were the worst! The redhead agreed wholeheartedly with her companion; involuntarily reaching up to rub at her nose as she did. Damn things had not only upset her strong constitution but also agitated her werewolf. She’d had to make a beeline for the exit before the real fun had begun.

Normally when someone takes something they don’t have the intention of returning it. Picking up the vodka bottle, Lana peered into its empty chamber. Damn, they had drunk it all and the night was still young. She barely felt tipsy although her bladder was screaming at her now. Excusing herself, she stood up and weaved through the bar towards the restrooms. Her destination marked by the sign that clearly marked RESTROOMS at the back of the bar. It was definitely a situation to squat in; the lavatory no more spectacular than the barroom itself. Less so even and she made haste to return to Bree’s company. Cringing as she retook her seat and propping her head up in her hand.

I wasn’t thinking of challenging you to a drinking game. I was actually about to leave. Tomorrow starts a new hunt for me. Reaching into her pocket and pulling out a wad of cash bound together by a rubber band, Lana dropped enough of the bills on the bar to pay for the bottle they had drunk, a generous tip plus whatever Bree had before Lana had joined her. Perhaps one day we’ll meet again. With her cash returned to her pocket, she patted the cheetah on the shoulder. Nostrovia, koshka. Turning on the heels of her boots, she left, returning to the familiar walls of her hotel room.

[exit Lana]
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Monday, January 11, 2010

Another decade - where does it go?

So it's 2010. Here in South Africa, it's an important year for all of us as we host the Fifa World Cup. The cynics amongst us think it will be a disaster whilst the optimists are buying tickets so they can say "We were there!"

Having been to Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final amongst other events, I've been there and they are memories to cherish. It sets one apart to be experience a huge and rare occurrence. So I'm buying my ticket - are you?

But those are details for mid year. This year started with Fat Boy camping. Instead of monumental hiking with large packs for days on the top of the Drakensberg escarpment, we opted to take the large tent, the gazebo, the camping chairs, the cooler boxes, lots of G&T and blow up mattresses. Luxuries indeed. Injasuti is a stunning location at the base of some challenging passes but we were there to admire from the base and stretch our legs on leisurely walks.

Now you would think that such a location brings peace and quiet into one's soul and it is a god given opportunity to reflect on the year that's been and to anticipate the next. Damn the raucous students who partied until all hours.  I'm surprised their car tires didn't rupture and their tents collapse under the strength of the negative vibes from every one else in the camp.

At least the morning was quiet as they slept off their hangovers and I know I wasn't the only one looking daggers at them when they staggered around the next day. Most of them left that day leaving us with space and quiet with which to contemplate some serious mountains.

On the last day, I summoned some energy to do a trail run with my as yet, untried trail shoes. The Myth and I decided to do a 6,5k run/hike to the top of the closest ridge. Off we went and it felt good. Climbing up a short mound, we came across a majestic eland which sauntered off as we approached. Turning right at the junction, we came around a corner and there was a herd of about 50 of the beasts. Magnificent.

A crawl up a steep ravine through a beautiful indigenous forest brought us to the summit welcomed by the call of a red chested cuckoo (or "piet my vrou" in local lingo). A quick jog down, pack up of tent and a final swim in the Injasuti River ended a very relaxed welcome to the new year.

I think I might find some mojo in trail running. We shall see.

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Sunday, November 27, 2011

Brad Paisley on Pasquale´s new mask

Winnipeg Jets

Today we have the pleasure to present Ed Pasquale´s new Winnipeg Jets mask. Ed had a very cool idea, he wanted to pay tribute his favorite music artist Brad Paisley. I immediately started to think and plan for the design. I love to create calm mask designs, it doesn´t need to be a lot of action to deliver. I am also just as Ed a big fan of Paisley, and I sketched a design that I felt was in the same style as Paisley´s music. I came up with the concept and Ed gave me green light to start.

One side I created as a tribute to Brad Paisley, old school airbrush paint mixed with artworks created in sketchy style give a nice calm balance to the design, spiced up with lots and lots of details to discover when you come closer.

The rest of the design is a clean team design with a lot of 3-D effects. On the chin area I painted the mountains from the IceCaps logo and created it as a landscape line with a sky above with glittering stars. Details I love to do.

Hope you enjoy it, you are welcome to check it out in the mask gallery. Thank you for your interest.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Auld turns into a centurion soldier in his new mask

Ottawa Senators

Today we have the pleasure to present Alex Auld´s new Ottawa Senators mask.

When I created Auld´s mask for Montreal Canadiens last season my mailbox almost exploded of mails from hockeyfans all over the world. Alex had seen my paint for a long time and wanted me to paint for him. It was so fun to create that artwork with old school oil paint tech.

When Auld signed with Ottawa this summer he contacted me the same day. I was very excited. Alex knew what kind of design he wanted and it sounded so cool. I created the layout and design plan in the middle of the hot summer.

The whole mask is painted as the centurion helmet in the Ottawa logo, and to make it more unique I came up with a bunch of ideas to spice it up. Glittering leafs, the cape of the soldier blowing in the wind, and when you come really close you will discover the reflections in the helmet from a statue of Caesar and the Coliseum, and also a centurion soldier. Details I love to create.

Hope you will enjoy it. Check it out in the mask gallery, on Facebook or in the App for iPhone, Android and iPad!

Thursday, November 24, 2011

The Rambo rubber duck is going to get squeezed...!

Anaheim Ducks

It's so much fun to paint for Dan Ellis, he wants designs with humour and lots and lots of details. When Dan moved to Anaheim I first made an orange Ducks mask to connect with the orange uniform, the Zombie-mask, and then a mask for the black uniform, the Pirate mask. Check them out on the site... And now the mask for the white uniform...

Let us present the Combat Marine Ducks mask! Dan Ellis wanted to pay tribute to the US army on this mask.

The Ducks are back again, this time as Combat Marines... and as you can see I had a lot of fun creating this design. Dan Ellis is a very skilled artist himself and draws a lot and showed me some sketches, and from there I continued. On one side a Duck is driving the humwee, with great speed, but watch out, there is that rubber duck again... and this time with a red Rambo bandana... Check out the rubber duck on the other masks... :-)

On the other side another Duck is dropped off from the helicopter and he is ready with his bazooka, and watch out, the power switch on the bazooka is turned to "On"...

On the chin Dan's name on a marksmen badge, and on the top fighter jets, just to mention some of the details... Check it out in the mask gallery or on Facebook!

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Crazy Christmas in DAVEART AirbrushShop!

DAVEART AirbrushShop

As Christmas is getting closer we launch a crazy Christmas campaign in DAVEART AirbrushShop, Scandinavia's biggest airbrush webshop. We give 10% discount on all airbrush kits, airbrushes and compressors until the 24th of December! That's crazy... :-)

Go there now!

Raycroft's new Dallas mask in retro style with extreme detail job

Dallas Stars

Andrew Raycroft's new Dallas Stars mask goes in the same style as his previous mask designs that I have created for him since he came to Dallas. This design I created a hot, hot day this summer.

I love to evolve new design solutions and balance with color effects. The mohawk lines that I have evolved through the years works perfect with the Dallas colors, and I spiced it up with 3-D effects and DAVEART Holographix FX and green ghost smoke.

The design is a so called 2 designs in 1, from a distance you see a classic retro design, and when you come closer you discover a new world of details.

Welcome to check it out in the mask gallery and on Facebook.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

DAVEART proudly presents iMask Studio

iMask Studio

We proudly present iMask Studio, a new revolutionary service and webshop from DAVEART.

iMask is a new revolutionary technology to get your goalie mask designed by DAVEART. Just as David Gunnarsson's world-famous designs, each iMask design is created uniquely for each goalie, with the same accuracy and detail. The designs are created in digital HD format in a virtual environment. Some designs are created entirely digitally from scratch while others are based on original airbrush paintings by David Gunnarsson transferred to digital format and adapted to the goalkeeper's wishes.

After the goalkeeper has seen the unique design on the computer screen, the design is molded onto the mask on a special microfilm, which is a real handicraft since no mask model is the same. A specially developed lamination seals the design and makes it impact-resistant and durable.

iMask Team Design

The new technology gives many advantages, especially extremely low prices and incredibly fast production. Price from 2895 SEK for a complete true professional design from DAVEART with a production time of about three weeks!

Other benefits of this revolutionary technology is that you can quickly and easily change the design on mask in the middle of the burning season. And with the extremely affordable price, you can design all of your masks, and just like the pros go with a special home and away mask.

The iMask Studio website is also a webshop with goalie masks and accessories from some of the world's premier goalie mask manufacturers.

The webshop is at the moment focused on Europe, but we will launch a North American shop soon. For the time being North American customers can order in the European webshop, just notice that the default prices include 25% VAT that North American customers don't need to pay. At checkout and login prices are automatically adjusted.

Welcome to visit the iMask Studio website!

Friday, November 18, 2011

Markström's new Florida mask torn up by a panther

Florida Panthers

Today we have the pleasure to present the Florida Panthers goalie Jacob Markström's new mask look. The design is a continuation from his last Florida mask that Jacob was so happy with. A clean and crisp design built on the Panthers logos and uniform, created with extreme detail work and 3-D effects. The logos on each side, and if you look close you will see that a panther has torn it up with his sharp claws... Cool details to discover when you come closer.

Welcome to the DAVEART MaskGallery to check it out!

Monday, November 14, 2011

Holtby's mask transformed into a rollercoaster ride...

Washington Capitals

How about transforming a mask into a rollercoaster ride? Sounds like fun! Braden Holtby had an awesome idea to put a rollercoaster ride on his mask, cause in Hershey there is a sweet amusement park. So I came up with this design with a mix of Hershey and Caps theme... :-)

Since it's a Hershey mask it's a bear in the ride, and the ride is running with super speed all over the mask. Hey, thats a really cool bear, he thinks the ride is nothing, he's just sitting there whistling...

The bear is also, of course, a goalie bear... his facemask is flying off in the high speed ride. And not only that, maybe the bear looks kind, but look again... this goalie bear is a real badass bear... :-) He has a black eye, bruises and scars... He must have been in a number of fights... Don't mess with him...

Everything painted with lots and lots of details and 3-D effects, just us a usual. The ride I created as an old school ride made of wood...

Check out Braden Holtby's Caps mask in the mask gallery or in the App!

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Skulls and flames...

CAlgary Flames

It was so exciting to create Joni Ortio's new Calgary Flames mask look. I came up with this really scary design, and Joni gave me thumbs up and I started. I created the design as a so called 2 designs in 1. The mask as a whole is transformed into a scary skull, with the teeth on the lower part and badass stitches on the crashed skull on the top... a really dirty look, and on each side I created a bad skull giving action to the design...

A design that works both from a distance and up close with all the details. I love to paint details that make the designs more interesting.

Check out Joni Ortio's Calgary Flames design in the mask gallery and on Facebook. Or in the App!

Monday, November 7, 2011

Dubnyk's new mask in a new style

Edmonton Oilers

We are very proud to welcome Edmonton Oilers' goalie Devan Dubnyk as a member of our team. He had seen my paintings and wanted my help for his new mask look. A dream project! I love to always create and come up with new design styles and ideas, never stand still, thats my thing... :-) We talked about different design ideas and Devan had an awesome idea how he wanted a razor sharp design with kind of flames inspired things, with a sweet Oilers feeling.

I came up with this hybrid of 3-D waving flames mixed with oil drops, and created in an old school style with extreme detail job. A design to discover both from a distance, and up close with a world of details. The metallic colors give nice effects and make it a design that feels like Edmonton to 100%. And as always very cool details on the backplate.

Check out Devan Bubnyk's Edmonton Oilers mask in the mask gallery, on Facebook, or in the App...

Friday, November 4, 2011

PredClassic is the name of Lindbäck's new Predators mask

Nashville Predators

Anders Lindbäck's new Nashville mask I named PredClassic, and that is really what it is. Really classic, crisp and clean. The design style continues in the same style as his previous Nashville masks, with the Predator logo vertical on the top, and around it a sharp old school design, in Nashville's new colors. Here you also find the new cool alternate logo, and the antenna from the Arena, just as before.

Everything created just as usual with extreme detail work and 3-D effects, just what I love to do, added with the incredibly popular DAVEART Holographic FX.

Check out Anders Lindbäck's Nashville Predators mask in the mask gallery, on Facebook or in the App!


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Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Unpublished Gems: Thrill-O-Rama

Thought I would end the year showcasing some unpublished pieces and their original printed versions if available, though in this first "Unpublished Gems" installment the book was cancelled before issue #4 ever hit the stands. This "lost" cover was from one of Harvey Comics many short-lived titles, Thrill-O-Rama, illustrated by Silver Age artist Jack Sparling. The mysterious Pirana debuted two issues earlier, trying to ride the huge wave of success from DC Comics Aquaman and Marvel's savage Sub-Mariner but never really found a following. Edward Yates, an Oceanography Institute research scientist offered himself as a guinea pig in an wild experiment designed for humans to live under water. Now transformed by a freak accident, Yates could never live on land again. Trying to see the positive side of every situation, Edward decided to use his super power for good as the Pirana (should that be Piranha) fighting crime with his new fish friends, Bara and Cuda in their only two published stories in 1966. Perhaps if Harvey Comics had spelled their new hero's name correct they would have had better luck with the title?

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Sensational Strips: Axa

Published by the British daily tabloid The Sun from 1978 to 1986, Axa was a science fiction strip set in the post-apocalyptic Earth year 2080. Written by   Donne Avenell and drawn by Enrique Romero, the feature revolved around a lovely high spirited woman named Axa who having grown tired of her regimented and stifling life in a protected domed city, breaks out to an unknown  wilderness with her boyfriend Jon. There they encounters mutated survivors, strange creatures, robots, aliens and other weird inhabitants in their many adventures together. Though based in science fiction, it seemed more at times like a sword and sorcery barbarian tale as our full-figured heroine ran around in her rag bikini or often to the delight or reader, topless or totally nude. Good-girl artist Romero was the perfect choice to depict the gorgeous Axa for the two thousand two hundred thirty eight dailies of the feature, usually in his three panel format. Unfortunately, no Sunday format was ever introduced, though it would have been interesting to see what Romero could have done on a larger scale based on his few comic stories. Upon its sudden cancellation in the middle of a storyline, the artist returned to draw his previous series Modesty Blaise, though I believe Axa was a better fit for his artistic talents. Axa later appeared in full color in the Spanish magazine Creepy in the mid-eighties for eight issues and had a short two book run for the American comic company Eclipse, though not with all the nudity that was a staple for the British strip. Reprinted in its entirety by Ken Pierce books in a trade paperback, the lovely black and white strip has found a new audience and appreciation over the years since its demise.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Foreign Favorites: Buck Danny

Known as the oldest of the European aviation strips, Buck Danny made his debut in the Belgian comic Spirou on January 2, 1947. Scripted by Jean-Michael Charlier and drawn by Victor Hubinon, it was a high flying strip in the mold of Milton Caniff's Terry and the Pirates. Buck and his hot-shot sidekick, Sonny Tuckson, were pilots with the US Navy battling the Japanese at Midway in their very first episode. After the war, the flying duo tackled various adventures from Borneo to Arabia, before signing up for action in the Korea War. Later the flying aces join the Air Force to confront the many conflicts during the Cold War. Adding a strong silent type, Jerry Tumbler, as a third member later on in the series, they often got involved in counter espionage tales fighting the lovely master-spy, Lady X. Often borrowing themes from both Steve Canyon and Buz Sawyer, the strip was always a fan favorite due to the accuracy of the machines the team flew. So popular was the strip that it spawned a series of high quality beautiful reprints from Editions Dupuis which showed off the features high-flying lovely detail.

Friday, December 7, 2012

Make Mine Marvel: The Monster Of Frankenstein

With Marvel riding high on the black and white horror magazines from their sister company Curtis Publications, The Monster of Frankenstein soon debuted in January 1973 with a title change to Frankenstein's Monster with issue #6 until it ended due to poor sales with issue #18 in September of 1975. Though Roy Thomas wanted to script the title, Mike Friedrich was chosen to write the issues with Mike Ploog assigned the artistic chores.  Basing his monster loosely after a John Romita drawing and trying to stay away from the look of the Universal monster, Ploog's moody scenes were the perfect choice as early sales were strong. The first four issues was a retelling of Mary Shelly's classic tale, continuing with a few yarns in the 1890s before the jump to modern times by suspended animation. Ploog was a fan favorite for the horror title but departed with the sixth issue, not wanting the creature in modern times, as John Buscema filled in with Bob Brown before Val Mayerik was picked to close out the series. Though Doug Moench's later tales were good, taking over from Friedrich, they never reached the popularity of the first classic issues with story and art. When the title was canceled the monster appeared in the Marvel magazines Monsters Unleashed and Legion Of Monsters and after guest starring throughout the seventies in other Marvel super hero titles, Frankenstein's monster mostly faded away with just a handful of appearances in the years since.

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Society of Illustrators Profile: Haddon Sundblom

Born in Muskegan, Michigan, the ninth child of poor Finnish parents, Haddon Sundblom left school at thirteen when his mother died, as the youth he did construction jobs by day and art classes at night. Later, he studied at the American Academy of Arts and the Art Institute of Chicago. In 1920, Sundblom was hired as an art apprentice for a studio and by watching McClelland Barclay and other illustrators he assimilated enough knowledge to begin getting work for himself with his first major assignment being for Quaker Oats. The artist formed his own studio in 1925, Stevens Sundblom & Camp; Henry which proved a valuable training ground for many young artists who later became successful illustrators. Sundblom's remarkable brush work and idealized sunny images made him a favorite with both advertisers and the public as he dominated the illustration field in Chicago. One of the first accounts he landed for his budding studio was for Coca-Cola as he designed his iconic scenes of Santa Clause for that company the next thirty years. Originally starting out with a jolly model for Saint Nick, Sundblom eventually aged himself into the perfect Santa role for his paintings. Producing extraordinary paintings for a number of major accounts, the artist also did editorial work, as well as nearly forty years in demand for magazines and ad agencies.


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Monday, April 30, 2012

Packing List for Friday Death Run

Water (4.7 liters)
Blist-R-Kit Deluxe (handheld pocket)
Endurolytes (8 in handheld, 8 in shorts pocket)
ID Bracelet/Last Will and Testament
Duct Tape
Hammer Flask (Hammer Gel Tropical w/caffeine)
Clif Bars (2)
First Aid Kit
Benzethonium Chloride Wipes (2)
Shit Kit with Extra Baggie

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Training Log

No long runs to report. I ran five miles at Fayetteville Lake the Tuesday after the marathon and just flew! I'd been sore all day at work but my legs just came alive the second they hit the trail. I couldn't believe it!

I spent the Sunday after the race proving out some new gear I got for my ultra in June, a race vest, some handheld water bottles, and a pair of real-deal trail running shoes. All worked great for two laps of Fayetteville Lake, but that's hardly an adequate test. [CoolProduct Picks to follow.]

I'm back to a tapering this week because next weekend is TEFKACS (The Event Formerly Known As Canoe School) at Turner Bend. I'm using the opportunity to do back-to-back runs on the Ozark Highlands Trail. I want to practice running on tired legs. Running from Cherry Bend to Indian Creek and back would be 28 miles, 29 with the little out-and-back to the top of Hare Mountain. I can carry enough water in my hydration pack to refill my handhelds three times which should last me the whole distance. Carrying that much weight and having to navigate unfamiliar trail will probably push that run well into the eight-hour range, longer than I expect the 50k at Hobbs to take. I'll know after that whether I dare to hand-carry my hydration for the ultra. The next day I could do the loop from Redding to Spy Rock or whatever I feel like. I suspect my legs will be pretty shredded.

Two laps of Fayetteville Lake today.

Total for Apr 9 - 15: 31 miles (Point two!)
Total for Apr 16 - 22: 17 miles
Total for Apr 23 - 29: 12 miles

Friday, April 27, 2012

An Onomastic Inconsistency

I've been toCrabfest. I've been to Lobsterfest. I have never been to Shrimpfest, but as of today, I have been to the Festival of Shrimp. I have to say, the Tequila-lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos at Red Lobster kick some serious gastronomic ass. Better try them before they go away!

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Recondite Quips and Hockey Fight Clips

"I visit people in [autism] meetings, and a 9-year-old will come up and want to talk about his autism. I’d rather talk about his science project."

--Temple Grandin
(read more here)

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Now Shipping from DMG Ultra!

Blist-R-Kit and Blist-R-Kit Deluxe

Includes Alcohol prep pad, safety pin (Deluxe kit replaces safety pin with sterile lancet), and pre-cut cloth blister patch with super aggressive adhesive (same cloth used in Band-Aid brand Tough Strip bandages!).

$3.95 or $5.95 for Deluxe.

(Shipping and handling extra.)

Monday, April 23, 2012

It's all or nothing,

preferably nothing.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Hogeye 2012

Mile zero: Never in my life have I seen so many fit people jammed into such a small place. Hey, I think I've seen her in the paper. "I didn't expect to see you today," A friend of hers shouts from somewhere as I stand on some raised landscaping admiring the crowd. "I have an important race Saturday so I'm just running today," She hollered back as she made her way towards the starting line. Yeah, that must be Leah Thorvilson. Just running. She will obviously win today. The anthem. The gun. No need for me to jump right away--I'll just wait here till the half and relay people clear out and then I'll begin my long saunter.

Mile 2: Funny, I don't think I've ever driven these exact roads before. I like the hills! That's quite a column of runners ahead of me, going all the way around the next corner. Lots of spectators, that's cool. The guy in the striped shirt is having more fun than we are!

Mile 3: (to guy in striped shirt) "Hey, didn't I just see you?" "Wasn't me, man!" he shouts back as he continues to cheer for all the runners. I shake my head.

Mile 4: I point and shout, "Now I know I've seen your ass before!" to guy with striped shirt. He smiles back.

Mile 5 1/2: Note to self: Do not open pill baggies on windy overpasses. Only dropped one Endurolyte and have plenty of extras so no harm done, but let's be careful. Mindful. Mindful is a better running word. Tilt your head down or that hat will be gone!

Mile 7: Great crowd on Gregg Street! Where the hell did they all park? I hear: "Alright 146 in the Tilley hat!" "Dude, you guys rock!" High-fives for the whole line of them.

Mile 7 3/4, as the half-marathoners peel off to go to the Scull Creek Trail: "That could be us," we green-bib-number people all lamented together. We turn later and get our first glimpse of the legendary Rush Running aid station from the Van Asche Street Bridge. We hear the music full volume, though!

Mile 10 1/2: Holy shit, that dude is flying! And him, and him. How is it possible to look so fresh after something like 19 miles? Where is Leah?

Mile 11: Aha! Those dudes must have been relay runners. Leah sure looks focused!

Mile 15: Shuffling up with my empty hydration bladder in my hands,"Do you guys have lots of water?" "Barely any. We have tons of Gatorade." "No thanks just dump those two cups in here and I'll be good to go till the next stop. You guys rock!" Note to self: Fill pack early and often.

Mile 17: "And it's cold, too! Thanks guys, you guys rock!" 1.5 liters for the last 9 miles, good to go!

Mile 17 1/2: The wind feels nice but take a look at those clouds!

Mile 18 1/5: "Hey, can I get a picture with you?" Turns out the guy in the striped shirt was named Jacob. He ran the Little Rock Marathon last month but then injured himself and was not able to run the Hogeye. He wanted to run so bad! Instead, he just drove from place to place to encourage the runners as they made their way. I would see him three more times before the finish. Some people are just awesome!

Mile 20: Finally! I though I was going to run my whole first marathon and not get drenched with rain a single time.

Mile 21 1/2: The energy of the Rush Running aid station cannot be described in a blog entry, it must be experienced in person.

Mile 23: It's mile 23, and I have earned the right to go as fast or as slow as I want to for the remainder of this race. I'm walking!

Mile 24: I'll be damned if those motorists on Sycamore are going to see me walking. I'm running!

Mile 25: Still running!

Mile 26: Note to self: Be mindful of tongue when passing professional photographer near finish.

Mile 26.2: Is sitting down a good idea? Maybe I should walk around some more. Or stretch. No, stretching is a lie. I think I'll just sit here and enjoy this Mountain Dew. Damn, that was fun!

Dry cloths, Mazzios, icewater, Flyers hockey, and a very cool kid. Life is good!

(Oh, yeah. To Leah Thorvilson, I'm just running today means breaking her old course record with a time of 2:52:02. Way to take it easy, Leah! To me, I'm just running today means five hours and ten minutes, which I think is a damn fine first effort. I can't wait for the next race!)

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Tilapia Two Ways

I've been threatening to learn to cook Filipino food for some time but have never gotten around to it. How does one start such an endeavor? What should be the first lesson? Adobo, giniling, balbacua? Me, I wanted to start with a meat as far from hamburger as possible: A fish! I also wanted to start at the local Filipino store, where Filipinos might possibly shop for food. Makes sense, right? Anyway, Mrs. DMG wanted some halo-halo yesterday so we all loaded up and headed for the Filipino store. She rounded up ginger, carrots, garlic, and an onion--I would need these things--and I dug through the many freezers looking for my first victim. I emerged with the most glorious Taiwanese tilapia you've ever seen! We settled up and headed home, excited to finally be embarking on a very smelly journey.

The fish took a day to thaw in the refrigerator and today we started. As always happens when I first try something new, I believed I was more knowledgeable than the person teaching me. In introducing the process, the point Mrs. DMG emphasized the most is that the oil must be very hot in order to keep the fish from sticking to the pan. I believe her words were, "It is extremely critical that the oil be very hot!" So I heated the oil to what I understood to be very hot and I threw in some ginger which supposedly helps to keep the fishy smell down. As the garlic was cooking, I exclaimed several times, "The oil is very hot!" "Not yet," she kept saying. Impatient to start and genuinely worried that the oil was too hot, I finally insisted that we must put the fish in. "It will stick, but go ahead," she said, so I did.

Knowing my inability to multi-task, I normally I would have cut the vegetables beforehand. Tonight, though, I got a bit of a late start so I julienned carrots and ginger while the oils from the skin of the tilapia bonded to the anodized surface of the aluminum cooking pan. Having worked in machine shops my whole life, and having an intuitive grasp of Newtonian physics, I was able to recognize the hazards involved with scraping a fish from the bottom of a pan filled with an inch of moderately hot oil. I knew what would happen if the fish broke loose suddenly while I was pulling one way on the pan and pushing the other way with a spatula. In true Filipino style, though, I ignored the danger and continued to hack away barefooted at the stubborn fish, holding the whole operation as far away from me as I could. With the fish flipped, and the oil still too cold meaning the other side would stick again, I got my vegetables going in another pan.

Mrs. DMG had the good idea to leave the tail part as is and put the head part in with the vegetables, which is what I did. It wasn't pretty to look at but the skin I scraped off the pan was crispy and delicious. The flesh stayed fairly entact, remarkably, and was also very tasty. Not a bad first attempt, I think!

f/2.8; 1/60 sec; ISO-100; flash.

Tuesday, April 03, 2012

Cool Product Pick of the Week

I was talking foot care with the guys at Rush Running and they all extemely enthusiastically recommended this Blister Shield foot powder. Their recommendations were more heartfelt and genuine than mere sales talk, as if they were sharing not just product information, but the key to a more comfortable and enjoyable running life. I bought some.

The stuff clumps and is a bit hard to work with, but I've figured out how to use it. The first thing you do is throw the included scoop away. You need a toothpick to get the powder out of the scoop. The next thing you do is dump the bad tasting, long-expired sandwich spread that's been occupying sparse refrigerator space for the last three years and clean the jar. The resealable bag it comes in is a nice idea except the powder packs into the zipper grooves making it impossible to close. The jar works much better. A Hydrocodone Polistirex and Chlorpheniramine Polistirex Pennkinetic promotional measuring spoon fits nicely in the mayonaise jar if you happen to have one, otherwise just trim the handle of a common plastic spoon and use that. I turn my running socks inside-out, put them in a ziplock sandwich bag, add about half a teaspoon of Blister Shield, and shake it. When I put my socks on, I rub them all over my feet and toes to work the powder into my skin.

I tried the stuff at Hobbs this weekend and it definitely lives up to its recommendations. My feet felt wonderful with no hot spots after five hours of running. Amazing stuff!

f/4.5; 1/60 sec; ISO-400; flash.

Let the Tapering Begin!

On December 7th, 2010, I ran two miles at Fayetteville Lake and then puked in the grass. This Sunday I ran 22 miles at Hobbs, in 85-degree heat, and felt pretty much fine afterwards. Not too shabby!

I knew it would be my last long run before Hogeye so I wanted to have a really good one. I carried an extra water bottle so I could run the entire Little Clifty Loop and the entire War Eagle Valley Loop (15 miles) before returning to the car to refill. Then I ran the short spur to the bunny ears (an obvious name for the two 3-mile loops, if you see the map). I ran the Dutton Hollow Loop first because it's the hardest of the two and I wanted the opportunity to bail at the end. As it was, I felt great and never gave a thought to not also running the Bayshore Ridge Loop. The first mile of that was super easy, but during the descent to Beaver Lake I felt an unfamiliar pain in my left knee for several steps in a row. Nothing serious, but I saw no reason to push things with the Hogeye only two weeks away. I decided to walk the last few miles back to the car.

As I walked, it struck my just how long it had been since I actually hiked instead of ran. You can never take your eyes off the trail at Hobbs, but walking, you can pay a little bit more attention to the blooming dogwood trees, the bugs and critters scuttling into the leaves to get out of your way, the sounds and smells of spring. I found a perfect owl feather some distance off the trail which I would not have seen running. I collected it and gave it to Donald when I got home.

It also struck me that, with my last long training run out of the way, I was essentially standing at the eve of my first marathon. There's nothing transformational about that; I did not set out 16 months ago with the express purpose of running a marathon--I set out with the purpose of becoming more fit, which I have done. There's nothing final about this marathon, either. I have an even more difficult race coming up six weeks after it, and there will be more after that. Still, it's a cool feeling to be standing at the eve of your first marathon.

I got just a bit emotional, as I walked. I remembered how surprised I was several years ago to learn that my sister Jennifer, who I had almost nothing to do with at that time, was about to run a half marathon. I called to wish her luck. Next thing I knew, she had driven all the way from Houston to run my first half with me in Winslow. I remembered my friend David Dinan who finished the Fayetteville Half and then waited in the cold another 45 minutes just to see me finish. I sponsored David when he ran the St. Jude Children's Hospital Marathon in Memphis on December 6th, 2010, the day before my vomit run at Fayetteville Lake. I thought of my mom running her first 5k at age 65. I thought of Mrs. DMG who, with no prompting at all from me, came home from Dillard's with running tights, a synthetic T-shirt, a jog bra, and some Nike running shoes. She's been running about ten times since.

Running has been good to us!

Total for Mar 26 - Apr 1: 27 miles.


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Thank you for a great 35 Years! Giveaway update!
July 19, 2017 by Tylor

Thanks to all of you our 35th anniversary party was a huge success! It was truly humbling watching throngs of people come through the store, celebrating the last 35 years… READ MORE


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Arizona State Football: 5 Freshmen Most Likely to Play in 2013

This Arizona State football team is hungry.

They are ready to feast on the likes of top-ranked BCS teams including Wisconsin, Stanford, USC and Notre Dame, and that is just in the first five weeks of the regular season.

The nation’s 14th ranked offense with 38.4 points per game in 2012 finished the season, dare I say, en fuego. Averaging 49.7 points in their final three games, the Sun Devils finished the year with three consecutive wins for the first time in 34 years.

That is an amazing feat as the Sun Devils have won their division only three times in that span. It is also the first time that Arizona State has won the Territorial Cup and their bowl game. The Sun Devils are chomping at the bit to get back on the field to prove that they are truly a legit team. For the first time in a long time, the media outside of the metro Phoenix area is also taking notice.

The Pac-12 media tabbed Arizona State as the No. 2 team in the south division, but what is more impressive is the 10 first-place votes that the Sun Devils received.

The returning offensive and defensive squads are going to be huge, with record-breaking years from quarterback Taylor Kelly and running backs Marion Grice and D.J. Foster.

The defensive squad returns consensus All-American and the Pac-12 Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year Will Sutton and his partner in destruction, Carl Bradford (pictured).

Bradford and Sutton became just the first duo in Sun Devil history to post double digits in sacks in the same season since 1994. There were 51 FBS teams that finished with fewer sacks than Sutton and Bradford (24.5).

Everybody is preparing for the returning studs, but who are the up-and-coming studs that will make an impact in the foreseeable future?

Here are the five players most likely to play in 2013 and will shine in years to come.

Marcus Ball: Defensive Back

ballMarcus Ball is the consummate athlete. He played safety, outside linebacker and quarterback at Westerville South High School. If that wasn’t enough to convince you of his athletic prowess, the night before he signed with the Devils, he put up a school-record 43 points for the basketball team.

Ball was ranked the No. 24 athlete in the country by and the No. 46 safety by and will fit in nicely in the Sun Devil secondary.

Coach Graham said about Ball:

“Marcus is a yes-sir, no-sir type of guy. He came here because he loves the discipline aspect of it. A born leader. Already earned the respect of the upperclassmen. Big, strong, fast. What’s there not to like?”

Ball, the younger brother of Wisconsin offensive lineman, Ray Ball, originally committed to the Badgers last year but decided to look elsewhere when head coach Bret Bielema left the program. Ray Ball and the rest of the Wisconsin football team will visit Tempe on September 14th to take on the Sun Devils, this will most likely be the first time we see the younger Ball in action.

 Chans Cox: Linebacker

coxChans Cox is another all-around athlete. The 6’3″, 230-pound athlete, excelled at Blue Ridge High in Lakeside, Arizona, as both a linebacker and running back.

Cox was ranked by as the No. 3 recruit out of Arizona, the No. 13 linebacker in the country and the No. 151 recruit overall. On the other side, rated him as the No. 1 fullback in the county and the No. 148 recruit overall.

Coach Graham said about Cox:

“He chose ASU over just about every other college in the country; Notre Dame was one that was the biggest competition. I think we signed the best player in the state that fits us, and that’s Chans Cox. I’m very excited about him. He has unbelievable athleticism and the biggest thing is the character of this man and the leadership that he provides. He epitomizes everything we want in a player.”

Cox is the third big-name athlete who has elected to “stay home” and play for Coach Graham and the Sun Devils. The top players in the state have traditionally elected to matriculate elsewhere with quarterback Brett Hundley and running back Priest Willis both spurning Arizona State in favor of rival UCLA.

Cox hopes to join the ranks of local freshmen All-Americans D.J. Foster and Jaxon Hood. Hood was one of only six true freshmen in school history to start in his first opportunity and Foster played in all 13 games.

Cameron Smith: Wide Receiver

The Arizona State receiving corps lost some big names to the NFL prior to the 2012 season and after the season, two more starters have graduated, leaving several opportunities for new receivers to make an immediate impact.

The 6’0″, 185-pound Smith was‘s 123rd-ranked wide receiver in the nation. With excellent quickness, a 4.4 time in the 40, Smith projects well to a slot receiver position in the Sun Devil offense, although he does possess the ability to play outside as well.

The Coppell, Texas, standout chose Arizona State over Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Oklahoma State. Coach Graham loves Smith’s speed and mentioned him over higher ranked incoming freshmen receivers Ellis Jefferson and Ronald Lewis. “He can fly,” Graham said of Smith’s remarkable speed.

Matthew Haack: Punter

matt-haack-asuArizona State lost a great punter in Josh Hubner and he will be extremely hard to replace. Hubner leaves behind big shoes to fill including the top spot in the Sun Devil record books averaging 47.1 yards per punt.

True freshman punter Matt Haack will have his work cut out for him, but Coach Graham has the utmost faith in Haack moving forward. Haack, the 6’1″, 185-pound punter out of Dowling High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, became the first player in 12 years from Iowa to sign with Arizona State.

Like other players on this list, Haack is a true athlete. He played running back and wide receiver and has been clocked at 4.6 in the 40-yard-dash. He began punting his junior year as a rugby-style roll punter and then began to flourish.

By the time National Signing Day approached, Haack was a three-star prospect and the No. 6 punter in the country, according to

Coach Graham had high praise for Haack:

“We had to sign a punter and we were able to sign, I think, one of the best that I’ve seen in a long time,” said Graham. “This guy will not only punt, he can play wide receiver for us. Great athlete, he is a rugby style punter. He can punt the ball in all directions.”

Junior punter Dom Vizzare handled the punting duties in the Annual Spring Game earlier this year and will battle Haack for the position, but Haack is designated the starter and the position is his to lose.

Zane Gonzalez: Place Kicker

Arizona State’s kicking game has been bad—at best.

Starting kicker Alex Garoutte was so abysmal that he eventually lost his field goal kicking job to walk-on Jon Mora. Garoutte’s misses in the past two years have led to much heartbreak and misery in Sun Devil Nation. When Mora took over the kicking duties, he fared better than his predecessor, but that’s not saying much.

Coach Graham went out and recruited one of the best kickers in high school to hopefully put all the drama of the past years to rest. Gonzalez brings a strong and accurate leg to Tempe. As a senior at Deer Park, he connected on all 10 of his kicks, and sent 44 of his 62 kickoffs for touchbacks. His career-long field goal came from 48 yards.

ESPN’s Insider Scouting Report had positive things to say about Gonzalez, “Zane is top 5 field goal kicker in the nation. He has won many field goal competitions and has range out to 55-60 yards off the ground. His ability to focus and perform is very impressive.”

Graham is excited about Gonzalez’s ability stating “Our place kicking can not do anything (but) get better, and I think he is really good, I think he’s the real deal.”

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About Me

Photography is one of my passions. It started back when I was in high school. Back then, there were no cellphones nor digital cameras and the only camera I could afford was a 12 or 24 photos disposable camera, and I had to make the best out of it. Eventually, I was able to buy a 32mm film SLR and got to learn how to developed my own photos in the dark room. After a few years, that camera was stored in my attic and forgotten. I focused myself on other important things, College, my Wife and having a Family. I kept taking pictures here and there with a point and shoot digital camera but nothing too serious. It was not until September 2015 when I received the most precious gift in my life, the day my daughter was born that the photography spark fired up again. I purchased a new camera the day we got home from the hospital and I started learning new things about photography and post production software on my own. I like to experiment, learn and play around with lighting, depth of field and post processing. The photo of my daughter below is one of those experiments that involves lighting, and post processing.
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Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Easter Already????

Boy its been awhile since I've been on here! I cant believe how fast the weeks go. I was going to make one post a week thinking I can handle that and poof I think I'm going on 2 weeks now.

I have to tell ya, I'm tired of winter. It can end right now. My biggest fear is that of falling. There is so much ice around here. Its been a pretty cold couple of months and with fresh snow--there is all that ice lurking underneath!

I wanted to post my newest Easter Decoration. I found this bunny at Pier 1 Imports. I could NOT leave him there. I brought him home and right after Valentines Day I put him on the fireplace. I placed some Easter candy in his little basket. I'm thinking I might add one of those tealights that is lit by a battery so that he has a soft glow. I cant believe I'm thinking of Easter already but hey, it will help me think of warmer temps!


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How To Make Money From Home | Ways To Make Money

My Top 5 Affiliate Marketing Forums

Forums can be a good place to learn all the ways to make money. Here is a list of my top 5 forums that I use. There are many more than this but these are my favorites:

1) Digital Point – Holy Cow! This is a huge forum that has so much going on it is almost confusing. You can spend hours (even days) going through the many posts here. Pretty much every marketing topic is represented and you will surely find usefull information at this forum.

2) – This forum is not anywhere near as large as the first one but you can find a lot of solid information here. This is mostly about affiliate marketing and blogging.

3) Self Starters Weekly Tips – This is a friendly forum with lots of helpful advice for newbies and people that are not too advanced. I like it because it is just the right size and people are helpful.

4) Earners Forum – This is much like the self starters forum but maybe a little smaller. All sorts of money making topics are discussed here.

5) Warriors Forum – This is a large forum with a ton of material. BEWARE – many of the members are quite advanced and they want you to know it. I call this a “newbie slaughterhouse” as I believe many members try to make a full time job pitching their wares to unsuspecting newbies. There are also a lot of helpful members but it does seem like there are more snake oil salesmen at this forum than others. Read, learn, and be careful not to buy too much.

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  • 1

    I salute your effort in publishing this niche. Very simple, eye candy and informative. Good luck.
    Interested for mutual link exchange..

    Purna Borkotoki on July 27th, 2007
  • 2

    Yes I would like to exchange links with you. Please let me know when you have added my site (I will be gone until 8/4 so I will not be able to put you up until then). Thanks.

    DayJobNuker on July 28th, 2007
  • 3

    Hi DayJobNuker,

    Good morning. Thanks for your interest. Wel I knew, you will response to my request, because our ideas are just complements each other.

    I have uploaded your link on my blog’s lower right corner “Friendly Sites” section with anchor text-
    “My Top 5 Affiliate Marketing Forums”.

    Thanking you and wishing your enduring sucess in life.

    PS:- Please let me know, when you upload my blog link in your beautiful site !!

    Purna Borkotoki on July 28th, 2007
  • 4

    What’s a girl got to do to make your top-5 forum list??? 😀

    Sara on August 18th, 2007
  • 5

    i’m eric. joining a couple boards and looking
    forward to participating. hehe unless i get
    too distracted!

    xztheericzx on November 10th, 2007
  • 6

    Most people that earn money being an affiliate sign up with several Affiliate Programs. In fact, you could have to test out several before you find the ones that will make you as much as possible. One of the important aspects to consider when you decide to promote products as an affiliate is to choose worthwhile products. If you wouldn’t buy it or have any use for it chances are your customers won’t either. Remember, even though you’re selling over the internet and not in person, no matter whether you truly believe in the products you are promoting will show through in your marketing efforts. Choose products that you truly believe in if you are planning to persuade others to buy them.

    Zemefeabe on December 26th, 2010


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Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Waiting on Wdenesday ~ A Flight of Arrows

What I'm waiting on:
A Flight of Arrows (The Pathfinders, #2)

When does it release? April 19, 2016

Why am I waiting? I don't read a lot from the colonial time period. This series looks really good, though.

Check out more WOW posts at Breaking the Spine.

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Friday, April 17, 2009

Update on Baby Elliot

ChurchPunkMom here -

**UPDATE 4/18**

Last night they did some blood tests and a CT scan on Elliot to test for meningitis and try to narrow down what kind of staph infection he has. They are pretty sure he does not have the MRSA staph strain (which can be fatal), so that is good news, and all other tests they've done have come back negative this morning. They had a relatively peaceful night.

I will update again with any news I hear.

Little E has been admitted to the hospital and will be staying there until at least Sunday night.

The ER doctors seemed quite sure that he has a staph infection, and are currently doing a spinal tap to see how severe it is (I won't put a link up for that.. you don't want to imagine that..).

It's always a bit unnerving when our little ones take ill.. But it can be downright terrifying when they have to be hospitalized. Please keep the Daytons in your thoughts and prayers.

Here's Little E's hand all wrapped up with an IV. Hospital procedures and infants just do not mix well. Poor little guy had a terrible time with the spinal tap, and after half an hour, they realized they'd struck out.

  1. Oh, my heart...Prayingprayingpraying...

  2. sending love. and hugs. thinking of all of you, please let us know if there is anything that i can help you with.

  3. I'm so sorry! Thinking and praying for all of you and baby E!

talk to me, people. because you know i get all giddy when you do.


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Don Bosco College, Angadikadavu, hosted a national workshop on Enhancing the Quality of Academic Institutions through Academic Auditing. The event held on 24 and 25 February was sponsored by National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), an autonomous body of UGC for assessment of institutes of higher education. Dr BabuAnto P, Controller of Examinations, Kannur University, inaugurated the workshop. He spoke at length on certain changes desirable in the examination system to assess appropriately the quality of training in academic institutions and to ensure the employability of the students. Prof. C Thangamuthu, former Vice Chancellor of Bharathidasan University, was the keynote speaker. He underscored certain paradigm shifts such as from teachingandlearning as two processes to teaching-learning as one continuum to scale new heights in academics. There were eight plenary sessions by eminent academicians and ten presentations by participants. The participants numbering 34 and hailing from 16 colleges included principals, faculty members, research scholars and students. Fr K.O. Thomas, Manager, presided over the inaugural function. The workshop was meticulously executed under the leadership of Fr. Johny Jose, Principal, and the faculty members ably assisted by the students of MCA Department.

  1. April 9, 2017

    For those aspiring a career, Don Bosco College offers all the required facilities.

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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

RECORD REVIEWS - November 2011

The Loom - "Teeth"

It is of little surprise to me that one of my favorite bands comes to mind when I listen to the Loom. Like Woven Hand, the weaving theme is right there in the band's name. In both cases, the complex powerful music weaves in many intriguing elements to create a highly personal accessible brand of folk-rock music. In the Loom's case, they feature a fascinating series of sounds from brass, winds and banjo in addition to the rhythm section, guitar and keyboards. The vocal work is excellent with most leads from a male voice, but female harmonies and occasional leads only add to the quality. This mixture of urban, pastoral, Americana, and psyche-folk is reminiscent of some of my favorite Toronto bands such as Do Make Say Think. In all cases, the comparisons are more of spiritual tone and ultimate feeling as opposed to the specific sound.

This is powerful, exciting music when quiet or loud, grounded or psychedelic. There is no reason this band should not move up in the indie world with the far lesser bands that are there (along with the many deserved acts like Decemberists, Iron & Wine, Low Anthem, etc.). So get on board with this band now while they now begin the touring and album releases that will hopefully make them a household name.

Songs to try:

The Middle Distance - This song creates an urban psychedlia with its moving drums and wailing French Horn, along with the quick vocal work.

The First Freeze - Delicate folk song with longing brass. It does not sound like it is from the US, England, but has a more universal tone.

For the Hooves that Gallop, and the Heels that March - The title alone is worth a mention, but the song develops a quiet approach that allows for some strong psychedelic guitar moves to make their mark.

The Spinto Band - "Biba! One Island, 879 votes" soundtrack
From nearby WIlmington, Delaware, the Spinto Band comes to DC to the 9:30 Club this Thursday, December 1st. In addition to their whimsical pop music, they have released a soundtrack album for a documentary film. I will be reviewing the live show which will be my first exposure to this intriguing band, but for now here is what they did for the film "Biba!"

This soundtrack album indeed sounds just like a soundtrack album. It is instrumental with shorter mood pieces. As every aspiring soundtrack writer should aspire to, they do pull in the Ennio Morricone spirit whenever they can. "The Bandit" and "the Sheriff" are perfect examples of songs that would fit into The Once Upon a Time in the West sequel. Even the titles should have your brain turning on your favorite Morricone. But there are other styles that mix simple pop moves with a flowing rhythm that sound like they would work marvelously in a film. The "Battle Hymn of the Republic" finish shows how a simply plucked guitar can carry a nice tune while mysterious background music can push one into a dreamy environment. This all sounds quite different from the few songs I have heard from the band and it showcases both their skills and love of the soundtrack style which they have adapted to successfully. Honestly, I was not sure I would listen to this much more, but the quality of it begs for future listens, as well as the desire to pull out more of my soundtrack music.

The Fed - "Birth of the Pipesnakes" ep
If you have the longing for the classic big blues-rock sound that many bands employed from 1968 to 1972, then give these four songs a listen. I have enjoyed this local trio live and was interested to hear the studio work. They have that thick fuzzy rural base, but there is some really nice flowing guitar work. "'83" features some really clean guitar solos that stand out amidst the lovely murky vibe working. The vocal work has a classic feel and comes off as an asset and not just a tack-on, which often happens in this style of music. "Lifecycle (of an American rock and roll band)" has a snappy fun feeling to it. At their worst, these guys play solid blues rock. At their best, they add some nice psyche touches and skillful playing that transcend this classic rock music form into something fresh and invigorating.

The Jet Age - "Domestic Disturbance"

Good grind it out rock is again the musical theme here. Like the Fed ep above, this is music for real straight-on rock fans. However, this power trio delivers it in a more of a timeless manner. The blues and hard rock bands of old are within the roots of this music, but a more modern indie rock is also present. The balance is just right for those of us that have lived through both eras or those that don't care a lick for history, but simply love to rock out. The guitar solos are some of the best I have heard off any record I have heard recently featuring bands not named Opeth or Mastodon. This is a twelve song album, so there are bound to be some lesserer songs. And at times the vocal melody lines do not quite do justice to the instrumental parts. Lyrically, they have linked the songs into a theme of sorts, which is something that I tend to give bonus points for. This is a fine record and it sounds like it would be a real kick live. You can judge for yourself when they have their release party at Comet Ping Pong on December 9th.

Songs to try:

I am an Agent - Good opener contains all the successful elements the band can deliver in a real head swaying, foot tapping tune. Egad, there's even a brief drum solo!

Hey, Captain - Cool foot tapping beat, power chords and great fuzzy guitar solos. This reminds me of an unholy hybrid of Lyd and Christopher. OK, so this one is more rooted in the past (but still not entirely).

Some Nights - This has a nice poppy tone to it with just enough drive to retain their style while dropping it down a notch.

Les La Britanica - "Soft Swerve"

Every time I review a live band in the electronica or hip hop fields, I am reminded that I should probably employ more writers. I want to go to these shows and continue to expand my musical borders to the point where there are none. However when it comes to writing about them, I feel I am fooling no one. So it was with more than a little trepidation I approach a hip hop vocal duo doing their raps on top of full-out electronic music. The main success here for my personal tastes is that they do not keep things simple as I have seen with rappers that just spout out dull cliches or electronica acts that stare at a computer screen on stage. There are talented vocal moves that are quite musical without being either cliched in rap or pop. The electronics are complex enough but allow space for the vocals and the dynamics of the song. Unfortunately, some of the lyrics I could do without, but sadly I come to expect that here and in other genres as well. It is not so much being a prude as it is where I roll my eyes and say 'here we go again'. Thankfully there is enough variety, so that only happened a couple of times.

Songs to try:

Mind Control - The opener has a nice restraint to the electronics that allow the vocals to be very tuneful and emotive.

Cop Car - Vocal lines really work some magic on this one.

Les L Aye - Some more cool vocal lines with a Germanic electronica close. This is my favorite.

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tracks related releases

The Best of Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan

Initial release : 2005

Columbia/Sony 75013

A single CD collection of tracks. The CD booklet includes photos by John Cohen.

  • Blowin' in the Wind (Dylan)
  • The Times They Are A-Changin' (Dylan)
  • Mr. Tambourine Man (Dylan)
  • Like a Rolling Stone (Dylan)
  • Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 (Dylan)
  • All Along the Watchtower (Dylan)
  • Lay, Lady, Lay (Dylan)
  • Knockin' on Heaven's Door (Dylan)
  • Tangled Up in Blue (Dylan)
  • Hurricane (Dylan / Levy)
  • Forever Young (Dylan)
  • Gotta Serve Someone (Dylan)
  • Jokerman (Dylan)
  • Not Dark Yet (Dylan)
  • Things Have Changed (Dylan)
  • Summer Days (Dylan)
Related releases

The tracks on this compilation are from the following sources.

Buy from

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It’s hard to imagine what the video business will look like in one year, let alone 10. Yet Comcast CFO Michael Angelakis says that was an incentive for his company to pursue the decade-long deal with Disney, announced yesterday, that gives the cable company broad rights to about 70 channels and services. “I look at that anxiety (about video’s future) as an opportunity,” he told bankers and analysts at the Citigroup Global Entertainment, Media & Telecommunications Conference. “Having long-term deals provides consistency.” He calls the agreement “a building block” — along with investments in live sports and VOD — for Comcast’s plan to compete with tech companies including Google and Apple as they move into the video business. “Our goal is to provide our customers with the best experience so they have no desire to go anywhere else.” Although Comcast and Disney didn’t disclose financial terms for their deal, the CFO acknowledges that it will increase Comcast’s programming costs. That’s “a challenge and we’re working through that.”

Angelakis was predictably upbeat about NBCUniversal. He offered a glass-half-full vision for the struggling NBC network, calling it “the biggest opportunity we have” — although he acknowledges that “it’s going to take awhile” to see big improvements. He also calls Telemundo “a diamond in the rough.” Comcast also sees Universal Studios as a growth opportunity although the CFO says that with the industry-wide decline in DVD sales he’s “not sure it can get back to where it was a few years ago.” Meanwhile, the theme parks are “knocking the cover off the ball” with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction in Orlando, which the company recently announced will also come to Universal Studios Hollywood. Angelakis also sees growth opportunities for NBCU’s cable channels, which he calls the “jewel in the crown.” Although they’re doing well, he says that rivals often command higher ad rates and payments from pay TV providers. “Our goal is to close the gap.” Generally speaking, he says that Comcast intends to keep the cash generated by NBCU within the operation so it can buy back much of the 49% stake in the venture that’s still held by General Electric. But most of the cash from Comcast’s cable systems will go back to shareholders in dividends or share repurchases. At the company’s earnings call next month “we’ll talk about the buyback again.”