Out With the Old

Okay 2010, get out of here already! We're tired of you!

--Weasel, "Bring on 2011!"

Friday Photoblog: "Make-Up, Please!" Edition

An unpainted Robot Heroes Bumblebee prototype, spotted in the Hasbro case at BotCon 2007.
(Hey, Hasbro? I hope you gave him a good home. If you don't want him, I'll take him. Hint, hint...)

And So It Goes...

Currently listening to: Who's Theme*

Tomorrow is New Year's Eve. Usually by this time, I'm in full-on Nostalgia mode, not wanting the year to end as it always seems to go too fast.

That's not the case this time.

tsuretette
anata no basho e
kaze ni natte
iki wo hisomete
tsuretette
anata wa doko e
toki wo koe
kokoro hodoite

I want this year to end and I want it to end now. The last few months haven't been great, so I'd rather get through this slag and start looking forward to the future than get mired in the past.

yureru hi damari
shiroku tooku
ate mo shiranai
kioku hodoku
kaoru himawari imada ni chiranai
kinaga ni

Now, not everything about this year blew. I saw Trevor Hoffman's 600th save. I went to BotCon and hung out with my friends. I've all but completed a manuscript. And I spent another year with Prime. But the last two months haven't been so wonderful and I'd love nothing more than to leave that behind. And 2011 has a lot to look forward to, trust me.

oshiete yo subete wo shitteshimau fuan
nanoni naze shiritakunaru yuragu omoi wo

haru natsu aki fuyu kanadete
asu wo yuku tabi tsumikasanete
kidzukeba anata to
yume no hate made

In February, we'll have the start of Spring Training. March 6th brings us Pokemon Black and White and on the 31st is Opening Day. In April is DairyCon. June brings BotCon and July we'll see the release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Like I said, there's a lot to look forward to next year.

tsuretette
anata no basho e
kaze ni natte
iki wo hisomete
tsurete tte
anata wa doko e
toki wo koe
kokoro hodoite

Usually during this time of year, I 'm pretty much stuck in the past. I don't like looking forward and I'm not all that fond of change. But after November, a part of me changed.

mimi wo sumasete
tasogareru made
kakureta mama de
mukae matte
kimagurena kaze kikkake
mekurete omoide

ano koro nanigenaku kikoeteita kotoba
itsukara ka kokoro no naka
ookiku shimeru

The idea of looking back doesn't appeal to me as much. I think I'd rather look ahead at what's coming rather than sigh and weep for what's gone. I can't go back and change things. The past is over and done. It's best for me to simply keep walking, keep going to whatever destiny I may meet.

ano koro nanigenaku kikoeteita kotoba
itsukara ka kokoro no naka
ookiku shimeru

In other words, "No regrets." I can't change anything. Just accept it all and move on. If not, I will miss out on everything.

haru natsu aki fuyu kanadete
asu wo yuku tabi tsumikasanete
kidzukeba anata to
yume no hate made

Now, that doesn't mean I don't get nostalgic; I still do. Hell, I've been giggling my ass off thinking about Cincy lately! But I don't have this overwhelming urge to say, "If I had a frakking time machine, I'd go back and change (insert whatever incident here)."

Even if the damned machine existed, I wouldn't use it. There's no point. Just enjoy whatever life may bring, make new memories and be happy with what I've got. That's my motto now.

tsuretette
anata no basho e
kaze ni natte
iki wo hisomete
tsurete tte
anata wa doko e
toki wo koe
kokoro hodoite

Have a happy 2011, wherever you may be.




* Who's Theme was the ending song for the twelth episode of Samurai Champloo and one of my favorite songs. It has a dreamy quality about it and simply sounds like an ending. For those reasons, it seemed to fit for an end of the year type post. Hope you enjoy it.

Friday Photoblog: "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend" Edition

A shot of beautiful Miller Park. From 2008.
(We might be in the sinus-bleeds--not quite the Uecker seats, but pretty high up--but I don't care. It's Miller Park. Therefore, it's awesome.)

*snerk*

So Prime's out doing the snowblowing thing... and he's wearing a mask. As in "cover the whole face" type mask.

He looks like a ninja. And every time I looked at him before he walked outside, I giggled. I think it drove him a little nuts. But hey, at least he's a warm ninja!

--Weasel, "Ninja, make snow vanish!"

Sometimes You Just Need to Scream

Saturday night was another "Nerd's Night Out", so to speak. Our friend Shawn dropped by so we ran around town and screwed around, which was a needed distraction in my case. I wish it had lasted a bit longer, honestly.

When Prime and I got home, we sat in the car and talked a bit. Then it all came out.

Yeah, I had a pretty good cry while sitting in the car. You have no slagging idea how much that helped. It felt as though six tons had been lifted from my shoulders. I felt so much better. No joke.

The next day I actually walked into my store with a small smile on my face. I actually started joking with people instead of giving the usual "polite" and standard greetings. I felt so much better than I have in weeks.

I'm not at 100% yet. I'd say I'm at around 75 to 83%, personally. But I'm a lot better. I think I'm actually "climbing out of the hole".

The only way out is up. I just have to keep going.

Once: Parte Dos

(Yes, the title is in Spanish. I only hope I didn't screw it up.)

So on Thursday, Prime and I headed out to our local Mexican restaurant to have a small, low key anniversary celebration. First off, I did imbibe. I'm thinking next time I might order a damn pitcher of margaritas and split it with one of my friends. (Hey, DA! If you ever head up this way, feel free. It'll be a party!) Second off, my guy is quite possibly the most romantic guy on the planet. Seriously.

The card he picked was perfect. Very sweet and perfect. And the gift? It was perfect. Diamonds are a girl's best friend, you know.

I'm talking baseball diamonds, of course. I'm going to Brewers On Deck! Best. Gift. EVAH!

Third of all: never drink a margarita and have anything spicy. Alcohol + pepper high = instant drunk. But hey, it was a party!

Eleven years and now heading into our twelfth. I have no words except: I love you, Prime. Always.

--Weasel, "Stop gagging. I'll turn the sarcasm back on later."

October Special in the Making?

It's been all over the news now: the Brewers now have Zack Greinke. I have to admit, I'm not all that thrilled with what we lost in the deal; we gave up Escobar and Lorenzo Cain to get Greinke and I really enjoyed watching Cain play. He was passionate and that always makes it fun. But I can't lie here: I have high hopes for Greinke as he wants nothing more than to get to the postseason.

I've got four words for you: Let's get him there.

2008 was a taste of "what could have been"--the Brewers could have gotten to the Series for the first time in 26 years. You have no idea how badly I want that. I want the Crew in the Series. And I want them to win. Ever since Prime got me hooked on this sport, I've wanted nothing more than to see the Crew winning the Series. I keep saying at the end of every season, "Next year."

Let's make this happen. I want 2011 to end with fireworks and not a whimper.

--Weasel, "Let's go Brewers! To the Series!"

Friday Photoblog: "It's Evolution, Baby!" Edition

Various body studies of movie Bumblebee. From the Hasbro tour, BotCon 2007.
(It's rather interesting to see the earlier forms and compare them to what we got in the finished product, isn't it?)

Brat'ja

Wednesday, as I rang up yet another order and stared blankly at the piles of groceries and Christmas presents that were stacked in fron of me, the questions started to swirl about in my head yet again.

Why did she keep me? What makes me so damned special? Why didn't she keep him instead? Why the hell did I get to stay with my actual family and not my brother? Why?!

My throat began to close and my vision blurred. I had to silence my thoughts or I would have burst into tears while standing at my register. Worse still, a song began to run through my head, namely Brat'ja from Full Metal Alchemist. It's completely in Russian and the lyrics can be found here. You're warned: it's not a happy song. But then again, Full Metal Alchemist isn't exactly sweetness and light.

Normally, I can only stand the original version of a song but as of late, the English version has really resonated with me. The lyrics strike a cord and I catch myself singing them softly under my breath.

I'll be honest--when I heard the last verse of the English version, I nearly cried. It was like a slap to the face.

I'm living through survivor's guilt. And it's eating me alive. I keep asking why in the name of Primus I was the chosen one and I don't have any answers. I just keep hearing Edward Elric's voice telling me to get up and walk, that I've got two good legs and should use them.

And he's right. But it's so hard to keep walking sometimes.

So where do we go from here?
And how to forget and forgive?
What's gone is forever lost.
Now all we can do is live.

Eleven

You're already tired of seeing me type here, I know. You'll live--you've no choice. Nyah.

So Wingnut--I mean Weasel--no, I meant Wingnut, I hate Weasel, Wingnut at least sounds like something with which a Cybertronian would get tagged, and if I can't use her real Autobot alias, I'm gonna use something that doesn't sound overly generic and wasn't a target in one of Weird Al's songs--and I are celebrating our eleventh anniversary today. Yeah, eleven, not first. We were finally married back in September of last year, true. I don't give a lot of weight to that date, in all honesty. Somewhat asininely, I put only a silver trophy on the day we first met at BotCon '99. Gold star goes to the day she replied to my initial e-mail to her--and I still can't say exactly why I inquired as to the status of her ActionMaster Bumblebee, aside from perhaps general wonkiness. Nope, the unobtanium quantum singularity goes to the day I flew in a southeasterly direction and met her just off the disembarcation gangway. Thus began our life together.

Yeah, I said 'thus'. Weld it shut.

I'll be taking her to what has apparently become her favorite restaurant tonight, where she'll doubtlessly snarf a trio of enchiladas that have been drowned in molé (ugh, that stuff is a travesty, really--capsaicin burn and pepper high or GTFO). She might actually partake of a frozen margarita of her own rather than guzzle half o' mine. Hopefully Ensign Lightweight there won't fall asleep from such a pithy amount of José freakin' Cuervo before I hand her a REDACTED BECAUSE I KNOW YOU'RE READING THIS WHILE I'M AT WORK WINGNUT HA HA, which upon seeing she'll likely break out into tears. Or a ridiculous grin. Or song--y'know, I'm never quite sure with her.

Which is all part of the fun for eleven years.

Happy Anniversary, Bunny Convoy.

+++PRIME OUT+++

Heard Around The House

Time: a few weeks ago
Place: upstairs near the bedroom.

Me: (irritated after Prime playfully smacks my arm) Knock it off, you lousy piece of ass!
Prime: Woman, last night you said I was a choice piece of ass. Make up your damn mind, bitch!
Me: (doubled over laughing)

COMMUNICATIONS INTERRUPT: Most Wonderful Time of the Year, My Skidplate

So the first major snowfall of the year for Wisconsin has come and gone, thankfully. That was some fairly bitter scrapmetal, there, that made me wish I had had a snowblower canopy. Or a ski mask. Or a winter cap. (Well, Weasel took care of the latter pair last night. Think I'm on my own for the former.)

Damned wind could not seem to choose a direction and stick with it. North, south, east or west, it seemed whichever direction I pushed that ol' John Deere winter warhorse was against the wind, and the blown snow invariably wound up in my face and down my jacket. (Thankfully, Weasel was not in much position to lay optics upon my beardage displaying more white than usual; she would've tried to get a snapshot and I would've had to hit her in the face with the shovel I didn't want to use yet or something equally absurdly hilarious.)

Add to that the city's inexplicably quarter-assed (they're not getting credit enough for a pronouncement of half-assed from me) job of plowing the streets and I had a dammit-I-am-already-tired-of-this-slag series of moments in clearing the driveway and sidewalks. (How the city plows managed to leave several centimeters on the roads and yet create a 60cm wall in our driveway, I can't fathom.)

The city did finally make another pass-through this morning, it seems--there was a smaller wall in the driveway waiting for us to leave for work. Far easier to get Scamper up-and-over that.

I shouldn't complain too much, I suppose. This is my home state, I chose to live here, it could be said I dragged Weasel here...I may be a moron.

Just waiting for the next damned snowfall--

+++PRIME OUT+++

Friday Photoblog: "BOOM! Headshot" Edition

Various headshots of Bumblebee from the early stages of the 2007 Transformers Movie. BotCon 2007.
(Is it just me, or does he really, really soulful eyes? Maybe it's just me...)

Friday Photoblog: "Down to Business" Edition

A Hasbro employee explains some of the different processes that go into toy manufacturing. From BotCon 2007.
(I believe this was dealing with paint apps.)

Friday Photoblog: "Peek-A-Boo!" Edition

The Club store, with the Bumblebee display in the background. From BotCon 2010.
(Just moments before I took this shot, I had a very small freakout.)

Friday Photoblog: "Denim Blues" Edition

Bumblebee sign in the Boy's Dept at my local Wal-Mart.
(Guess who wasn't allowed to keep the damn sign?!)

And Now For Something Completely Different...

As you all know, I'm a die hard Brewers fan. I eat, sleep, and dream Brewers. I love my team, love my guys and support them through thick and thin. Even if they go down in a shutout, I don't care. I'm still there, whether at Miller Park or watching via Fox Sports Wisconsin; I'm there for them and screaming my head off. I don't abandon my team. They are my guys and I support them 110%, no matter what.

It goes without saying that I really miss baseball season. Not being able to ask Prime, "How'd my guys do?" is a bit depressing.

So when I found this little gem surfing the 'net a couple of days ago, it gave me a much needed chuckle. I even let Prime read it. Whether or not he found it funny, he ain't sayin' but he did read it, at least.

Now, if you've never seen John Axford, you are missing a moustache of truly epic proportions. I mean, this 'stache is Rollie Fingers epic. It truly is a sight to behold. "Majestic" would be a good word for it. When I see it, I am in awe of it. I have often shouted, "EPIC 'STACHE MAN!" as Axford has headed out to the mound. Truly, it is quite awesome and awe-inspiring.

A couple of days ago, while I was bored at work, I started to scribble out a few pseudo-facts of my own. I hope they give you a chuckle or two, like they did for me. I present to you--

Random Facts about John Axford's Moustache:

* John Axford's moustache has a black belt in karate.
* John Axford's moustache graduated with a 5.0 GPA from Harvard.
* John Axford's moustache is bulletproof.
* John Axford's moustache can speak 18 different languages fluently.
* John Axford's moustache is worshipped as a god in southeastern Asia.
* John Axford's moustache knows who killed JFK, but the Warren Commission wasn't willing to admit that a tuft of facial hair knew more about the situation than they did.
* John Axford's moustache knows where Jimmy Hoffa is buried.
* John Axford's moustache rides a Harley.
* John Axford's moustache has the keys to Fort Knox.
* John Axford's moustache can strike out Chuck Norris... with one pitch.
* John Axford's moustache knows the correct lyrics to "Louie, Louie".
* John Axford's moustache has been nailed for speeding in Broken Bow OK, Decatur IL and Rosendale WI--and talked its way out of all three impending tickets.
* John Axford's moustache is the only viable shelter during a natural disaster.
* John Axford's moustache takes its rum and Coke on the rocks... without the Coke.
* John Axford's moustache has fought in six World Wars and won them all.
* John Axford's moustache knows how to party, even better than California.
* John Axford's moustache is one of only two things that can kill Wolverine.
* John Axford's moustache once called R. Lee Ermey a wuss and got away with it.
* John Axford's moustache has a Camaro for every day of the week.
* John Axford's moustache can sucker-punch Godzilla.
* John Axford's moustache won a Pulitzer Prize in Literature.
* John Axford's moustache knows the exact location of the Fountain of Youth.
* John Axford's moustache has a replica of the Stargate... that actually works.
* John Axford's moustache is the one thing that scares Chuck Norris.
* John Axford's moustache has its own chauffeur.
* John Axford's moustache does not "pity the fool".
* John Axford's moustache can play twelve different instruments, all self-taught.
* John Axford's moustache can ace Through the Fire and the Flames on Guitar Hero's Expert level... with one hand.
* John Axford's moustache knows the secret of the Secret Stadium Sauce at Miller Park but refuses to tell.
* John Axford's moustache gave the Colonel his secret recipe of 12 herbs and spices.
* John Axford's moustache won the first World Series... twice.
* Beneath Chuck Norris's beard might be another fist, but beneath John Axford's moustache is the wicked fastball that you never saw coming.

Expect this list to grow; it's a long way 'til Brewers On Deck, even longer 'til Spring Training and don't even mention the start of next season. Hide the peanuts and Cracker Jack until then, 'kay?

--Weasel, counting down the days until March 31.

**NON-RANDOM PLUG!**
If you have a Twitter account, do me a favor and follow John Axford. If he gets more followers, maybe we'll see more of the Crew on there and you know how happy that would make me. Thank you.

Black Friday

So, I'm in at nine o'clock the day after Thanksgiving. I'll be in after the bullshit has been said and done.

I'm actually kinda glad; one of my friends has to be in at his store at midnight, IIRC. Yeah, that would piss me the hell off, too.

I wonder how many people will end up getting punched in the ribs or kicked in the face trying to grab whatever cheap-ass TV or hot new toy that's on the sales floor this year.

Really people, is this shit worth getting injured over? Yeah, didn't think so.

--Weasel, who wouldn't step foot out of her house if she didn't have to go to work that day.

Friday Photoblog: "Pick-Up Line" Edition

The preregistration pick up lines for BotCon 2007.
(Everyone looks so happy to be there...)

For My Friends

(Click the title for music. The lyrics can be found here.)

For all my friends, I send this message to you all. You know who you are. And I mean it, every word.

Itsumo sasaete kureru hitotachi ni
Higorono omoi wo kometa rhapsody e
Appreciation no kimochi wo todoke
Itsumo arigato hontou arigato
Tatoe doko ni tatte kimi no sonzai ni
Kansha shiteru yo

Hito wa daremo hitoridewa ikite ikeyashinai
Tagai ga tagai wo itsumo care shiai
Rikai dekinai toki wa hanashiai
Hara kakaeru gurai warai ai tai
Nanoni naze kou toki ni kenashiai
Kizu tsukiau no teki ga shinai
Baka baka shii hodo kimi ga sukida
Terekusai kedo chotto honki da

To all the people who have supported me..
This heartfelt rhapsody goes out to you
To send you my feelings of appreciation
Thank you...I really thank you
Wherever you may be,
I'm grateful for you

Nobody can go on living just on their own
We each take care of one another
And talk it over when we misunderstand each other
I wanna throw my head back and laugh together
And yet why do we sometimes insult each other
And hurt one another
I love you so much it's almost silly
It's a little embarrassing, but I really mean it

Freefall

I have a few stones sitting in the window sill in my bedroom. They're catching some sun in order to purify them. Sounds stupid, but I need something physical around my neck to help me feel grounded. Primus knows, anything will help at this point. Hell, it can't hurt, I know that much.

Thursday night, Prime and I saw our friend Shawn. He came bearing Bumblebee goodness; namely three of the $41.99 CostCo exclusive Battle Ops Bumblebee sets. After we settled up, the three of us went out to dinner together.

I went ahead and told Shawn my brand new family situation. After I told him, Prime suggested I take a sip of his frozen margarita to help calm my nerves. He could tell I was pretty upset by everything.

I didn't take a sip. I had to stop myself from emptying Prime's glass.

Thankfully, I had the brains to stick to soda when it came to my dinner. If I had gotten anything alcoholic, I don't think I'd have stopped at one damn drink. I probably would have gotten so damned drunk I wouldn't have been able to see straight. (Though I'm sure Prime would've stopped me.)

I'm past the weirded-out phase. Now all I want to do is lay in bed and fucking cry all day.

I think I prefer the weirded-out phase. The urge to start sobbing while I'm standing at my register doesn't feel so great, believe me.

I've been asking myself questions, questions I never wanted to ask myself, questions I really don't want to hear the answers to. It's not pleasant. I wouldn't wish this slag on anyone.

I have my brother's address. He knows I exist. I should write him, or at least try but every time I try and think of anything to say, I freeze. I don't know what the hell to say.

I can fill an entire notebook with story ideas but I have no idea what the hell to say to my own damn brother. Primus, I feel fucking useless some days.

So help me Primus, if I ever see another one of those "Life: What a Beautiful Choice" commercials, I will send my goddamn fist through the television. Because the way I'm feeling right now isn't beautiful at all. It's hell.

--Weasel, still wanting to cry.

Friday Photoblog: "Idol Worship" Edition

The Hall of Fame displays for Optimus Prime and Megatron. From BotCon 2010.
(So, how come Bumblebee's below them? He was the first inductee...)

(Insert Snarky Title Here)

So I called my parents on Monday. They're doing well. Then Mom dropped a bomb on me.

I have an older brother. Whom I never knew existed.

.....

Yeah, that was my reaction, too.

Still kinda weirded-out here. Guess it's going to take me a while to get used to not being the only kid in the family. (But at least now I can say I'm someone's annoying little sister!)

--Weasel, really weirded-out by all this.

Friday Photoblog: "Toying Around" Edition

A display featuring ROTF toys at BotCon. From 2009.
(Y'know, it'd be pretty cool to have a set-up like that...)

Along Came a...

Today, as you might know, is an extra-awesome day. It only happens to be Dan Gilvezan's birthday. In honor of this glorious occasion, I shall be playing my copy of Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions. And giggling like a dork.

Enjoy the day, Dan and much love. It's all about you!

What a Contrast...

So evidently, getting my fix can and does include watching the postseason, no matter who's playing--just watched the Phillies/Giants NLCS game 6. Giants won. I don't think I've heard a quieter stadium. I mean, damn, you could hear a frigging pin drop. Not like the Rangers/Yankees game. When the Rangers won ALCS game 6, the entire stadium erupted into thunderous cheering. The Rangers were at home, so it's no mystery why the difference exists, but still...

Now the Phils fans are booing. Go home and cry, ya chumps. I'm sick of ya. I still ain't forgivin' yer asses for 2008, ya bastards.

--Weasel, "Brewers shoulda been in the Series in '08, not you, ya cheesesteak-suckin' crapsacks!"

Friday Photoblog: "Room With a View" Edition

A shot of Orlando from our hotel room. From BotCon 2010.
(Looks like rain in the distance to me.)

The C Word

Yesterday after I got off the clock, I wandered around my store a bit. Walked through the Lawn and Garden area and groaned. In the back left hand corner what did I see?

Christmas lights and wrapping paper. It begins again.

Yeah, really looking forward to all this crap. Can we just fast forward to next June so I'll be in Cali for BotCon? I'd much prefer that, thank you very much. (It is my "Christmas", after all.)

--Weasel, gritting her teeth and waiting for the clusterfrak that is the holiday shopping season.

Friday Photoblog: "The Final Score" Edition

The final score of the '08 game I saw with Prime.
(I love watching the Red Birds lose...)

Random Thoughts, Yet Again

Because I haven't done this in a long while and I'm pretty freaking bored, it's time for:

Weasel's Random Thoughts!

* Bitch Convoy is officially gone. She got the boot back in mid-August. Seems she decided to cash someone's payroll check and handed them the money... along with the freaking check. So, basically the check could be recashed with no one the wiser. That's a massive fuck-up on her part and needless to say, management told her to step the hell down. She is supposedly working in Wireless, but I have yet to see her and I ain't complaining. (This is the same female who lectured me on frigging ethics. I can't tell if this is funny or sad.)

* I watched a Green Bay Packers game a couple of weeks ago. I can honestly say that I find baseball a lot more exciting.

* A few days ago, I had to go on a toy run for Prime; we'd gotten word that the local ToysRUs had restocked a couple exclusives and we needed several for a couple other WAY-non-local collectors. Waiting until Prime got off work wasn't really a palatable option. As a thank you, he got me a big box of Brewers baseball cards and a box of unopened vintage packs. I can say I've tried to chew 21-year-old Topps gum (it just dissolved in my mouth) and lived to tell the tale.

* Good news for yours truly: The Brewers won't raise ticket prices next year. Now all I need is to hear me some Hell's Bells in the ninth inning and life will be awesome.

* Wasn't able to make Slag-A-Con this year. Really wanted to meet David Sobolov, but things just didn't work out. Maybe next year.

* Spent most of Sunday watching the Hub, Hasbro and Discovery's new channel. I think I enjoyed My Little Pony a little more than I should have. (Hey Hasbro, we need a figure of Nightmare Moon. There is nothing more epic than a black winged unicorn.) The really good stuff comes on at 11 PM Central Monday through Thursday. G1, baby! (A nightly visit with Bumblebee after a crappy day will do my sorry tail some good, I tell ya.)

And that covers just about everything. Tune in next time when I ramble on about more pointless BS. Until then, this is

--Weasel, "Signing off."

SON OF A---!!

I'll bet that Barricade is laughing his skidplate off about this one.

Ouch. Seriously, OUCH!

Yeah, poor 'Bee looks like hell. But both drivers were okay. Something tells me my sweet little Autobot would actually be a bit proud of that.

You know, I've seen listings for wrecked cars in one of our local Auto Traders. Mr. Bay, if you don't want to repair that Camaro, I'll take him and nurse him back to health. (Hint, hint...)

--Weasel, "I'd give him a good home."

Friday Photoblog: "Peanuts and Cracker Jack" Edition

A shot of Prince Fielder on the Jumbotron at Miller Park. From 2008.
(The season's over and it's frakking killing me!)

Friday Photoblog: "In Disguise... Or Not" Edition

The Bumblebee statue and the Camaro display. From the Dealer Room at this year's BotCon.
(No, I didn't try to steal either one... I'm not that evil.)

COMMUNICATIONS INTERRUPT: So Much for the Screaming II: The Next Day

Hi, Prime here. You can tell because I use Eurostile for everything. Unless you can't because you don't have it, in which case, sux2bU. :p

Weasel's at work, slavin' away for the megacorporate. I, on the other hand, am at home watching the final Brewers home game of the season--and they're puttin' on a helluva show. Kinda wish I had risked her wrath to drive down to Miller Park on my own. It's only the bottom of the fourth inning, and so far, Ryan Braun has knocked two two-run home runs in, Lorenzo Cain has put bat to his first career home run, and Prince Fielder landed one in the Blue Bunny section in right field, at which point (bottom of the third) Marlins manager Edwin Rodriguez decided that he'd seen enough of Adalberto Mendez on the mound for the day. Ha. 7-1 Milwaukee.

Weasel is going to be simultaneously so pissed and so pleased when she finds out, considering having witnessed the Marlins' 16th shutout this season just yesterday evening. Her combination facial expressions are just priceless, lemme tell ya. You wouldn't think facial muscles could move that way, but yeegh.

She's asking, nay, demanding that I net tickets for Brewers On Deck in January and the home opener in April. (Former would be easy enough, but the latter requires miraculous abilities I simply do not possess.) I ask you, what have I wrought upon the world? Y'know, when I became a fan in 1987, marrying a girl who'd go complete bonzo for the Brewers wasn't really marked as a point-of-interest on my mental map...

Enhh. And I have to agree wholeheartedly with Weasel's comment about the swirling trade rumors surrounding Fielder. I had hoped that with Bud Selig finally out of the picture that the era of getting a good-to-great-to-star player only to trade him away for yet more (sneer) future prospects was over. But GM Doug Melvin is still here, so that's yet a danger. Hopefully principal owner Mark Attanasio will continue to be more willing to open the wallet than anyone in the Selig family ever was.

--Prime, "No, this has not nor is likely to become a sports blog. Put your bats away."

(HA SEE WHAT I DID THERE)

EDIT 1550, top of the 9th: And to top it all off, now it's Trevor Time at Miller Park. Yeah. There'll be screaming, all right.

So Much for the Screaming

Just got back from the game (construction on US 41 notwithstanding; damn barrels were keeping everyone's right tires beyond the solid white line and down to 25 mph, WTF). Guess not every one I'm lucky enough to see in person can log the Brewers another mark in the Win column--they were shut out 4-0 by the Florida Marlins. Sort of sad when the highlight of the game for mah guyz is Cain bouncing off the wall in right-center to net a fly ball.

Prime says he owns a Marlins cap that he got a year or two after their inaugural season. I'mma find it, I'mma burn it. With fire.

So the mere fact of the loss is the, uh, rum raisin ice cream in this rather crappy Saturdae (as opposed to 'Sundae'). The expired whipped cream: it was a Fan Appreciation Night at the ballpark, as this is the last homestand of the season, and nobody in our section got a giveaway of any flavor. (I mean, it's even fun just to peer down/crane your neck/whatever trying to spot an actual winner in your section.)

The goddamn so-sour-it-never-should-have-been-picked cherry? This loss meant that the Brewers clinched a losing season this year. Yeah, sure, when a team's at 81 losses and there are still more than a week's worth of games to play, you shouldn't spend very much time hoping that they'll suddenly get on a hot streak and burn through the rest of the season W, W, W, W...but I can't help it, I love this damn game and I love the Brewers.

Better luck next year, I hope. And all this idiotic talk about trying to trade Prince Fielder for some hot prospects or a great pitcher or whatever...to anybody who spouts that as being a good idea? Eeeeeffffffffffffff yyyooooooooouu.

Not a complete toss. I did get a cool T-shirt commemorating Trevor Hoffman's 600th career save, and finally netted the Topps 2010 Brewers baseball card set that I'd been looking to get. Dang cool.

--Weasel, "Love the game, love the Crew--it's all Prime's damn fault."

And Today in Fun

So, I'm off today. And Prime snagged us a pair of tickets to tonight's Brewers game. In a few hours, we'll be heading down to Milwaukee and glorious Miller Park.

I just hope this isn't a mistake. I've had a cold for the past three days and I work tomorrow. If I scream too much, I'm slagged.

Oh, well. It'll be totally worth it.

--Weasel, trying to decide whether to wear the Prince Fielder jersey or tee...

Friday Photoblog: "I'm Back, Baby" Edition

(Been a while since I've done this. I know I shouldn't have let it go for so long, but it's been a bad few weeks, which is why I've been slacking. Don't be too upset, mmkay?)

The BotCon Autograph litho, complete with autographs. From BotCon 2010.
(The wait for the next 'Con is freaking killing me.)

One Year

It's been one year since Prime and I did this.
And I am so glad we did.

--Weasel, married and loving it. (Love ya, Prime. Muchas smoochas!)

Failure is Not an Option... It's Automatically Bundled with Windows

Just a word of caution--never assume that letting Windows Update run is going to turn out smooth as silk, peachy-keen, etc., etc.

I'm fine (now), Alexa One is fine (now),...sheesh.

--Weasel "Let's not have this shit happen again, okay?."

Dear Spiders,

Please stop doing the "drop and dangle" over my bed. It freaks me out, causes Prime to panic and results in some pretty nasty deaths for you and your brethren. If you guys have any sense (common, spider, or otherwise) whatsoever, you'll freaking stop this stupidity, all right?

Sincerely,

--The (very) Freaked-Out Weasel

For Whom the (Hell's) Bell Tolls

(Click the title for musical accompaniment.)

Last night, Prime and I went to our (probable) last Brewers game of the season.

What a night it was. My arms are still sore from clapping and I'm very hoarse. I've been coughing ever since I got up this morning. I can barely speak because I screamed so much last night. But it was worth it. It was totally worth it.

We got to beautiful Miller Park about half an hour before game start. First thing we did was hit the Team Store. You think I kid, but I could spend a serious boatload of money in there. I first settled on a Trevor Hoffman bobble head, but then switched for a pair of smaller ones that Prime spotted. These were of Hoffman and Prince Fielder. I thought, Two for the price of one. Why the hell not? Ran us $21, which is the least I've ever spent there. I do not joke. Next time, I'm getting that Brewers necklace they have. I will wear it every day. And I'll get a watch to go with it.

Prime grabbed us some food while I ran and hit the ladies room. While in there I heard the announcement of the on-field umpires. I groaned out loud when I heard the name Tim Timmons. Prime's seen him call games and he always manages to blow at least one call. And act like a rampaging douche.

We had no idea, though that the umps on the field happened to be the Summer's Eve Team: For your maximum amount of Douche! Good lord, I have never seen such douche-baggy behavior in my frickin' life. Seriously, the whole lot of 'em needed a smack upside the head.

Thankfully, I won't be remembering the game for that.

Narveson pitched for most of the game, then Villanueva came in later. After Villanueva, it was Axford. At this point, quite a few people decided to leave. Bad idea, but I digress.

Prime figured that since Axford was in (it was the eighth inning, after all) and the Brewers were ahead by two that we weren't going to be hearing "Hell's Bells" in the Park that night. Kinda depressing but I figured I'd just catch Hoffman's 600th save on TV.

Then someone behind me said, "Is that Hoffman warming up in the bullpen?"

I caught myself saying, "Dude, don't even. Because if it isn't him I'm gonna get upset." Prime, who was taking pictures of the game turned and looked at me. He spoke two words and pointed to the scoreboard. "It's him."

On a corner of the scoreboard it read--Brewers Bullpen: Hoffman.

I let loose a yelp. We'd be hearing "Hell's Bells" and I might get lucky enough to see number 600.

When the eighth inning ended, nearly everyone started getting to their feet. Then both the Jumbotron and the scoreboard went dark. All of Miller Park erupted in cheering. Several seconds later came the familiar clang of the bell.

It was Trevor Time in Miller Park.

I was standing up and screaming as loudly as I could. The entire stadium was filled with cheering, screaming fans. We wanted number six hundred. We were hyped and yelling.

At first it looked a little dark; Rasmus got on base but Winn hit a grounder that resulted in a nice double-play. That brought Miles, a pinch-hitter to the plate. He got a full count, then Miles sent a ground ball to Counsell who fired the ball to Fielder for the last out.

Trevor threw his hands in the air. The Brewers in the dugout swarmed the mound while the pitchers came screaming out of the bullpen to do the same, hugging him and slapping him on the back. "Hell's Bells" rang through Miller Park and 30,000 plus fans were screaming in hysteria. I was yelling, clapping, almost crying and all but dancing where I stood. It was truly an awesome night.

Truth be told, I'm getting a little choked up now, just remembering it.

Prime and I stayed after the initial celebration. We were able to watch (and Prime recorded) the interview that Hoffman gave after this most historic game. Man-oh-man, did we ever pick the right game to attend--it could have just as easily been the other BP C'mon Back Club game in this series that we redeemed at the Miller Park ticket office after BotCon.

To Trevor Hoffman, I extend my congratulations. You pitched a helluva save and I'm damn glad I was in the Park that night, able to see history in the making.

To Prime, I say thanks. For getting us to the game, for letting me run around the Team Store and grab souvenirs but mostly I thank you for getting me involved in this. Never thought I'd be a baseball fan. But I am now and I love every second of it, just like I love you.

To the nuts who left during the seventh inning and afterward, I simply say: Maybe next time you'll stay for the whole game cause you poor nits really missed out! (Sucks to be you guys, don't it?)

--Weasel, who'd love to see Hoffy get number 700 in a Brewers uniform and be there in the Park to see it happen...

Still Kickin'... Sorta

I'm still here; it's just been a really bad couple of weeks. The job has been wearing at me (at least Bitch Convoy is freaking gone!) and there's been other shit that's been going after me. It's not really something I can go into, either.

I'll try and update soon... if I don't feel completely slagged.

--Weasel, "Life sucks but the Weird Al concert was pretty awesome."

Friday Photoblog: "A Little Dinner Music" Edition

Stan Bush in concert at the Paramount party. From BotCon 2009.
(I still have Dare stuck in my head...)

Friday Photoblog: "'Sup, Bitches?" Edition

Our finished G2 Sideswipe. From the customization class, BotCon 2010.
(He looks like a badass, don't he?)

That's a Deathin'

Man burns down house after mother throws away toy robots.

Yeah, this is where I insert a quick "Touch my Bumblebees and die". I'm not kidding.

--Weasel, "Hands off my 'bots, slaggit!"

Friday Photoblog: "You Asked for It" Edition

This is what happens when you cross Bumblebee with, um, plastic potatoes.
(Prime has one, I've two. Somehow, mine are cuter.)

Want!

Check it out: it's Halloween BumbleDuck! I want this so hard it isn't even funny.

--Weasel, "Did I mention I liked Donald Duck?"

Friday Photoblog: "I Want YOU" Edition

Sign at the Autobot Alliance Academy, which DA and I took part in, natch. From BotCon 2010.
(I still say you'd be my superior officer, DA. You've got the skills.)

"Friend" This

So apparently, saying anything bad about my company on-line will get an associate in hot water. Okay, no big deal right?

Wrong.

It appears if you have Facebook, management will try and fucking friend you... just to watch what the fuck you're saying about the damned company. If it's anything bad, they haul your ass into the office and bitch you out.

I'm really glad I don't have Facebook. I'll be damned if I'd friend any of the management in my damned store so if any managers see this, GTFO. My time on the 'net is my own assholes and I sure as hell won't spend it with you.

--Weasel, "Primus, please let my sorry skidplate get published. I want out of this hellhole."

597

Trevor Hoffman just got save number 597 at Miller Park tonight. Music is being played in honor of the awesome.

Only three more to number 600. Keep goin', baby. You can make it.

--Weasel, "Hells Bells is back, baby! HELL YEAH!!"

Friday Photoblog: "The Finished Product" Edition

G2 Sideswipe, all assembled.
(Shawn does kick ass work.)

Technical Fucking Difficulties

Well, this is fucking awesome. I have to reformat the hell outta my work.

Yeah, I'm frickin' pissed. But big whoop. I can deal with this, I guess.

--Weasel, "I hate Terran technology. It sucks."

The Streak Continues

So I get to work today and the front end looks like hell. Again.

We're out of medium bags. Again. So we're stuck using the huge-ass bags. Again. But it gets even better.

It seems we had an order of medium bags that would have arrived soon, but it's not coming. Some jackass decided to cancel the freaking order. So we're stuck with the huge-ass bags, anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

Yep, you read that right. A bloody fortnight. I could cry.

When I get the hell out of the building, I am exhausted. I collapse in the car, wanting nothing more than to go home. Instead, Prime drove us to the other side of the building. He tells me to go back inside, head straight to the board games and buy what's been stashed behind one of them. Confused, I did as Prime asked.

What do I find waiting for me behind the games? A Powerbots Stealth Bumblebee.

Now, you remember how it is with me and 'Bee; I have a crappy few days and BAM! He shows up, as if to tell me that life doesn't suck as much as I'd like to think. It's quite a streak, believe me.

And it just continued. I think everything around me blows chunks and Primus sends a herald. Maybe, just maybe, I can make it through all this.

--Weasel, "Here's hopin'."

Friday Photoblog: "The Eyes of an Angel" Edition

The Bumblebee statue at this year's BotCon.
(Oh, how I wanted to cuddle him...)

It's Getting Ugly

My job situation has gotten, for lack of a better term, out of control. I can't go into the details; if I do, there could be some real trouble.

Suffice to say, I don't want to be in the building at all. I hate even seeing the slagging facade. The place just makes me cringe now.

To answer your question, mein liege, it won't take much convincing for me to hit Slag-A-Con. I'm probably going to put in for the days off by the end of next week. I need the break. With everything that's been happening... I may just end up being committed before next BotCon. It's all I can do right now not to scream.

But for all the bullshit going on in that building right now, I have one thing to say: I am not letting you fuckers break me. It ain't happening.

I Can Make It Until June, Right? Right?!

The last few days have progressively gotten worse at my hellhole workplace. On Wednesday, my store completely ran out of medium bags. So our bagging areas were full of large bags.

This was a disaster. They kept falling off the bagging area and couldn't stand up while we were placing items in them. Our speed dropped, the customers were pissed but management swore we were stuck with the damned things through the weekend. Someone screwed up our bag order and we were shipped a pallet of the wrong thing but we had to use them anyway.

There were customers cursing out cashiers over this. We also had customers howling at management over it but management did nothing.

At least, they didn't do anything until the store manager came back from his vacation. He got pissed and took care of everything.

Then two days ago, one of my co-workers got fired. She wouldn't give a reason, she just said it was a dumbass reason to get fired. But now we're short a cashier and we have the EAA Fly-In starting up this week. It is going to be hell.

Then there was today. One of the guys who works service desk volunteered to take a shift yesterday. Unfortunately, he couldn't make it; some punk ass broke out all his car windows. So when he tells management that he can't make it (for obvious reasons), he's told that it will count against him.

Needless to say, he won't be doing them anymore favors. He pretty much said he'll let them hang if they're ever in a bind. I can't blame him. He said it himself: we bend over fucking backwards for that place and all they do is screw us.

Primus, help me make it to next June. But as of right now, I don't know if I can pull it off.

Friday Photoblog: "He's that Awesome" Edition

The "Bay" Room at the convention center. From BotCon 2010.
(It would have been far more awesome if it were the "Michael Bay" room.)

Um, WHAT?!

I write like
Charles Dickens

I Write Like by Mémoires, Mac journal software. Analyze your writing!

Really?! No foolin'? :runs around giggling: I'm trying not to squee over here.

--Weasel, "This is pretty awesome..."

I REALLY Wish...

...that it would STOP EFFING RAINING in my area. I'm sick, sick, sick to death of it.

--Weasel, "Gimme a DROUGHT, I'll take a DROUGHT now."

Friday Photoblog: "Telling His Tale" Edition

Dinobot's Hall of Fame display. BotCon 2010.
(You wouldn't believe how happy I was that ol' Chopperface got in...)

YES!

Congrats to the National League for winning the All Star Game! I am one happy weasel now!

And Today in "What the Flying Fuck?!"

You know DA, I have to admit I'm seriously glad you're not going to SDCC this year.This is why.

Fred Phelps is going to Comic-Con. Can I get a "What the fuck?" here?!

His reasoning? Oh, it's stellar, trust me:

Are you kidding?! If these people would spend even some of the energy that they spend on these comic books, reading the Bible, well no high hopes here. They have turned comic book characters into idols, and worship them they do! Isaiah 2:8 Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made: 9 And the mean man boweth down, and the great man humbleth himself: therefore forgive them not. It is time to put away the silly vanities and turn to God like you mean it. The destruction of this nation is imminent - so start calling on Batman and Superman now, see if they can pull you from the mess that you have created with all your silly idolatry.

You know something, Freddie boy? I haven't called out to your god in a very long time. The last time I did, I was in my twenties and your god did absolutely nothing to help me. He simply sat on his heavenly posterior and watched me squirm. So I quit calling to him, since it's obvious he won't fucking answer.

Instead, I have called out to HIM. HE has answered. HE has granted mercy. So tell me, Freddie boy: which god is truly real? The one from your holy tome or the one from the damned comic book? Because I will tell you, the one from the comic has been much more helpful than the one from your tome. Make of that as you will.

--Weasel, hell bound idol worshipper and damned proud.

Coping

The first full week back to work is a killer. I have no real desire to be there and the memories of the recent convention just makes it harder for me to adjust. But once I'm through that first week of drudgery, I'm all right. Well, as all right as one can expect. But there have been changes, not all of them good.

The biggest? One of our good head cashiers has stepped down, thanks to management. They tried like hell to get him fired and he got sick of it, so he's stepped down and now he's at service desk.

I could cry. Seriously. He was the only head who was friendly and reasonable. Now management has pissed him off and we've fucking lost him. We're stuck with a bunch of fucking dumbasses who don't know what the flying fuck they're doing and who act rudely towards us simply because they can.

What a helluva way to start work after having the time of my life.

--Weasel, wishing it were June and she was in Cali...

...dammit...

So tonight was the Home Run Derby. Corey Hart had a helluva first round, but didn't do so great in the second.

I don't even remember who won. It wasn't Corey, so I couldn't care.

Yeah, I could cry.

--Weasel, was hoping the Brewers could have that trophy for a second year in a row... oh well.

Friday Photoblog: "Getting His Props" Edition

The Bumblebee standee from the Hall of Fame Dinner. BotCon 2010.
('Bee was the first inductee. I have never been so proud...)

Friday Photoblog: "Some Assembly Required" Edition

The various bits and pieces used to create G2 Sideswipe, all sorted and ready for assembly. From this past BotCon's customization class.
(Turns out I don't suck at toy assembly as much as I originally thought...)

Back to the Real World

Yesterday was a recovery day of sorts; Prime and I did nothing more than relax and sleep. (He's feeling a bit better, in case you're wondering.)

Today's my laundry day. I've already got my black/grey load in the washer and my jeans are drying even as I type. I've hand-washed almost all of my 'Con tee shirts and they're now drying in the bathroom. I've only got one last shirt to wash and I'll be done with the clothes; when they dry they can then be packed for next year.

It begins again. I'm already doing my preps for next June. It gives me a little something to look forward to.

I've noticed something this time. I'm not as depressed this time around as I've usually been. I know when and where the 'Con will be taking place. Prime's already gotten our hotel room reserved. We can get better, cheaper flights this time around. I have an actual date on my pocket calendar that I can mark down. Whenever work starts sucking (which Primus knows it will), I can open it up and smile knowing that this too, shall pass. If I can get through the slag, I'll be fine.

In the next few months, I'll put in for the time off. (I won't be able to do it immediately because of that dumbass "no more than 180 days in advance" bullshit, but I will do it ASAP.)

Yes, it will not be easy getting back to the real world. There will be days I won't want to drag my sorry ass out of bed, but I'll be able to cope. I have something to look forward to. It doesn't seem like much, but it'll keep me going.

--Weasel, hoping her sorry skidplate might actually be published by next BotCon, that way her job won't suck as much...

Homeward Bound

06282010 Monday

It’s a little bit before 11PM; Prime and I were listening to the Brewers game. (Stinkin’ Astros…) We’re home. The 'Con is over and we’re home. To be blunt, I have mixed feelings about that, but we'll get into it later.

We had to get up today at 3:10 in the morning; since we got to bed so late we both decided to hell with it and didn't really sleep much. I don't know if that was such a great idea or not. When we got up, we finished what little packing we had left (it wasn't much, believe me) and got ready. We did a little last minute cleaning up, grabbed our luggage and checked out.

I wasn't really surprised when we got to the front desk, the person who was taking care of us never asked for our door keys. I'm guessing a lot of people keep them as souvenirs. Pretty cool, if ya ask me. Once that was done, we headed outside and waited for our shuttle.

The shuttle got there early and we were on our way. Oddly enough, as we began to pull away from the hotel, I started to smile. I didn't feel too terribly sad about leaving. In fact, as we started our trip to the airport, I said under my breath, “Next stop, California.” You wouldn't believe how broadly I smiled when I said those words.

We arrived at the airport at around 4:45. We got through security, got to our gate and began to play the waiting game. While I was waiting, I grabbed my cell and sent a quick text to DA. He zapped me back, which put a pretty big smile on my face. I needed it, believe me. (And for pit's sake, ya gotta tell me about the dumbasses at the SuperShuttle! I'm betting it's one helluva story!) I managed to choke down a little food and spent the rest of the wait either reading a USA Today that Prime snagged from the hotel room or snoozing.

At 6:30, we began boarding our flight. It was a pretty full plane so I'm pretty glad that Prime went ahead and bumped us up to zone 2. We got to our seats and headed home. I pretty much spent the entire flight sleeping.

We got to Milwaukee at 8:40. We got off and I decided to hit the restroom. While there, I started digging in my pocket, trying to grab my cell so I could turn it on.

It. Wasn't. There.
My. Phone. Was. Gone.

The only thing I could come up with was it fell out of my pocket and into my seat while I was on the flight back home. Yeah, I damn near had a fucking heart attack right there in MKE. I tore through both of my pockets, trying to find her, then ran outside and asked Prime if he had my phone. He said no. So I raced over to the podium by our gate and managed to tell the woman there that I might have dropped my phone on the plane. She said I wasn't allowed back there, that someone would check and bring it out if they found it. Thankfully, one of the flight attendants came out and was told what was going on, so he escorted me back onto the plane and helped me find my cell.

I found my phone. She's sitting on the nightstand near the bed. I was never so grateful in my life.

Needless to say, I thanked that attendant profusely for his help (I believe his name was Christopher) and dashed off the plane so they could start boarding the next flight. Primus really cut me a break and sent one of his heralds my way. I am so blasted lucky and I can’t thank Primus enough for his divine intervention.

And those cute little Capri pants I was wearing? They're gone. They're not going on vacation anymore. If I get another pair similar to them, I’m checking the pockets. If they're shallow, I’m not buying them. I'm not risking anything falling out of my pockets ever again! Next time it could be my slagging wallet!

After handing Talkback (Yes, my cell phone has a name!) to Prime, we headed outside, got picked up and headed home. While in Milwaukee we did manage to stop by Miller Park and grabbed a couple of tickets for the September 7th Brewers/Cardinals game, so I have a bit more awesome to look forward to. As we journeyed through Milwaukee on our way back home, we passed a Chevy dealership, stocked to the gills with Camaros.

One was yellow, with black racing stripes. My guardian angel followed me home, it would seem. :)

We got home, crashed out and have been relaxing ever since. To be perfectly honest, I'm a little depressed. But I'm not as down as I was last year. Yes, this chapter is over, but I know exactly when the next one will begin. All I have to do is wait until next June. I'll be heading back to Cali, the home state of one of my best friends. If I'm lucky, maybe he'll be able to head out on one of the tours with me. (Primus forbid! We'll drive everyone on the tour bus insane. It will be awesome!) We already have our hotel room reserved and we can book our flight a helluva lot earlier than we could this year. And our food budget might be a bit more reasonable next year; if the Sheraton has a mini-fridge and that grocery store is still located across the street from the convention center, we're good. (If we do snag some food while we're there, feel free to help yourself, DA. I don't want you starving while you're on vacation. I'm not that evil, you know!)

BotCon 2010 is history. This chapter is over. But, to quote Simon Furman, “It never ends!”

--Weasel, already looking forward to next June.

Day Four

Right now, it's raining a little bit, which suits my mood perfectly. Don't expect an update tomorrow, as that's our travel day and Prime and I will probably collapse the moment we get home. I'm doing this because if I don't... well, let's not go there, okay? I really don't want to flood our hotel room.

Prime and I woke up pretty slagging early this morning; we didn't have to be down to the panel room until 11 but we got up at 7:25. I guess we trained ourselves to get up early. Prime thought it was around nine when he sat up. Boy, was he ever wrong! We got up, got dressed and I went and grabbed breakfast. We ate and DA and I lit out for the panel room while Prime hit the dealer room.

DA and I got there at around 10:10 or so. We listened to the Budiansky panel again, saved a seat for Prime and waited for the Hasbro Designers panel.

A lot of good shit was revealed. It's all over the usual websites, so I'm not going to post that info here. Very informative. Apparently, with TF: Prime, we're only dealing with the show. No toys just yet. But that could change...

After the Hasbro panel, the group and I headed to the dealer room. DA had to head up to our room and pack up, as he had to leave at a little after four. At a touch after 1, I got in the autograph line for Scott McNeil. Got his signature on my autograph litho and tried to get in the line for Paul Eiding (G1 Perceptor).

The line was capped. I really thought I was screwed, but fortune shined upon me. I will leave it at that. (And I owe a certain someone a lot for the help given.)

After getting the autographs taken care of, Prime and I wandered around the dealer room a bit. We ran into DA and the three of us hung out, waiting for the drawing for a chance to win a trip to next year's 'Con.

None of us won. Oh well.

We hung around for a bit, I got to hug Karl Hartman and told him I'd see him next year. The three of us eventually made our way to the front of the Dolphin and waited for the shuttle to come and pick up DA.

It came too blasted soon. DA was loading up his luggage and left much sooner than I had wanted. Prime and I stood and waved good-bye.

I was fine 'til I got back to the hotel. That's all you're gonna get outta me.

Not long after as I started to pack our bags, it started to rain. Seemed a bit fitting to me. I have a few shots of the skyline. Might post one some Friday.

DA called a bit ago and let us know that he was on time and on his flight. That was really good to hear, believe me. It cheered me up like you wouldn't believe.

Watching Transformers on TNT at this very moment. It's rather fitting. It helps ease the transition back to the real world and reminds me that I have next year to look forward to.

I can't wait for my early birthday present in June 2011. I'll see everyone then. Until then, I'll miss all of you. May Primus watch over you.

--Weasel, dreading the return to the "real world" already.

Day Three

Got up early again today (technically yesterday, but I digress); the Hasbro Studios panel was due up at 10. Got in, listened and got a few insights on the upcoming Transformers: Prime animated series that will be hitting the Hub in the fall of this year. We got to see Optimus, Megatron and Bumblebee in both 'bot and vehicular modes ('Bee's a muscle car/Camaro, which is freakin' awesome!) and we learned a bit about the cast.

Frank Welker is Megatron.
Peter Cullen is Optimus Prime.

When that panel was over, I asked the studios guys for some autographs and asked the a quick question concerning the show. If you don't want to be spoiled, do not highlight the following text:

I asked them if Bumblebee would be speaking or not in the show. He will not. He will be mute. Again. So no VA for Bumblebee, it would seem. But they'll be handling it differently than the movie and I'll probably be able to accept it pretty well. I really hope so.

After this was the Hasbro Marketing Review and Q&A. Lotsa interesting stuff, but most of it we've all seen/known about. After that panel was done, I zipped up front, got some more autographs and asked Aaron Archer a quick, rather goofy (and severely nerdy) question. Don't want to know? Don't highlight:

During the previous panel, one of the studio guys said that the different Transformers characters have different Cybertronian astrological signs. This was info that Mr. Archer knew. So I asked. Technically, it isn't astrological signs as much as it has to deal with their DNA and how they descended from the original Thirteen. This part of their history/back story will be revealed over the next few years and at later dates. Yes, I am very intrigued. If I can hear anything else on Bumblebee's cyber-genealogy, I'll be one happy-ass geekbot!

Prime and I stuck around for about half of the Activision panel, then we decided to head down to the dealer room and do some wheelin' and dealin'. We got ourselves some nice ass swag, ran into a friend or two and just had a blast. We headed back up here to our hotel room, chilled for a bit then ran down to the Hall of Fame dinner.

There was drinking, dining, and some weird ass mystery veggie that was on my plate but I freaking ate it anyway. So much fun. After dessert was served, we got the real party rolling.

We were treated to a group of short videos detailing both the Transformer and human inductees to the HOF. The first Transformer featured? Only the absolute best. Yep, my sweet little baby, Bumblebee. The vids were set to music and Bumblebee's "song" was You're the Best from The Karate Kid. I admit I've always liked the song, but now I love it like you wouldn't believe. Just hearing the chorus puts a giant grin on my face. And no, I was not quiet at all when I saw that vid. With all the screaming I did during the ceremony, I won't be able to talk for a friggin' week. Oh well...

After the known inductees received their honors, the Transformers fan pick was revealed. We had been given five choices: Soundwave, Grimlock, Shockwave, Jazz and Dinobot from Beast Wars. The winner was:

DINOBOT!!

When that announcement was made, I literally jumped out of my seat, screaming and pumping both fists in the air. Out of those five, I really felt that old Chopperface deserved the honor. He was one of my favorites from the Beast era and the main reason I utterly and absolutely adore velociraptors. (Seriously, I love the buggers. I used to hate them but now I think they are so damned cute it isn't even funny. I even have a little pewter statue of one that's on the prowl. Sooooooooo cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuute!) Yes, there was much merriment to be had.

After the main ceremony, Greg Lombardo, one of the bigwigs from Hasbro let us in on a dramatic reveal: we already had the dates/location for next year's 'Con.

BotCon 2011
June 2 through 5, 2011
Pasadena, California

We're goin' back to Cali!

The site itself is live, but don't even bother with trying to reserve a room at the Sheraton. Prime called the place and reserved our room (he was the second person to do so, if I recall correctly), then proceeded to tell everyone that the site wasn't up so here's the number to call.

The entire damned block is now sold the hell out. Awesome work, Prime. At least we have our room for the event in question. And we have about a year to save up. Hell, we'll be able to book our flights sick ass early!

I actually dread tomorrow a little. It's the last day of the 'Con. On top of that, DA will be leaving in the afternoon. That's something I really don't want to think about. (For the love of Primus, DA, do not get choked up. We will flood the damn Dolphin if you do!)

Yeah, trying to think happy thoughts here. Don't really know how much good that's doing.

--Weasel, "I won't cry, I won't cry, I won't cry... ennnnhh, I'm totally gonna cry..."

Day Two

Had to get up pretty early today; the Club Store opened up at 8AM today and I didn't want to miss out on the Sharkticons set. I was up at 7:15 and out the door about twenty minutes later.

The line was still insane. I got the Sharkies, though.

I headed back to the hotel room, dropped off the Sharkies and relaxed for a little bit, then headed to the panel rooms for a couple of panels. First up was TakaraTomy.

Yoke-san struck me as a bit sarcastic at times, which was pretty awesome. We now know why the G1 Constructicons were green (it was Hasbro's idea) and the story behind Optimus Prime (which Yoke-san asked us never to repeat, so I won't) and various other cool facts. After that was done, it was time for Mr. Bob Budiansky.

Again, very interesting. Apparently, there were two names circulating for Bumblebee: Bumblebee and Goldbug. It seems the "upgrade" name's a bit older than I thought. And it would seem that Spike Witwicky predated the name Buster when it came to the comic. Again, really interesting.

And Mr. Budiansky is officially my god. He wasn't really sure if he created Bumblebee but said he'd take the credit for it. That makes him god. ;)

After those panels were over, I headed back to the hotel room and rested for a little bit. Prime was still crashed out; he didn't come along with me for anything today because he still feels like slag. (He seems slightly better right now and I can only hope that he's up to running around tomorrow.) Our friend Shawn dropped by and asked if we still needed the KissPlay Sparkbots and we said yes, so he nabbed us a set. DA and I headed down to the dealer room at 2 for the "private experience". Prime stayed here and dozed.

The very first thing I did in the dealer room was run to the back corner and take pics of the Bumblebee statue and Camaro. It's a dealer's Camaro but I really don't care.

I got to sit in the Camaro. As in, behind the damn steering wheel.

I completely dorked and asked Bumblebee permission before I got inside. DA snapped a pic of me and when I stepped out, I thanked both DA and the car! (Got a pretty sweet pic of DA lookin' chill behind 'Bee's steering wheel. Good times, good times.)

After that, me and DA did a bit of training at the Autobot Alliance Academy. I have never dorked so much in my freaking life. Before we go in for our training, we have pictures taken and get briefed. The woman who briefed me told me I could only shoot Decepticons and no Autobots. She also noticed my shirt and asked, "Who is that on your shirt?" I replied, "Bumblebee." She warned me not to shoot him and I said I wouldn't even dream of it. She also told me not to make out with him.

Oh Primus, I turned Autobot sigil red! I guess everyone knows that I'm a flaming robosexual now! But it was a freaking blast, believe me.

I also ran into mine liege. There was laughing and hugs and other such dorky things.

I wandered around, snagged a Galaxy Force Megalo Convoy and a pair of Bumblebee tee shirts from Stylin' Online. Not a huge haul, but very satisfying.

I also took a look at the Hall of Fame display and took a few pictures. As I was snapping a shot of a rather unusual Bumblebee RPM, I read the type on the bottom front of the backer card.

HASBRO EMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE

Oh yeah, I nearly shit my pants when I saw that. I took a couple of really good shots of the front and a nice one of the back before I wandered away to cry.

As I walked away, I saw Aaron Archer. So I figured, what the slag, I'll asked about that 'Bee.

No chance of a retail release, natch but it seems there was anywhere from 50 to 100 of these little guys produced. If you worked at Hasbro, you got one. Basically, there was a sticker on the back with the recipient's name, no bar code. Unfortunately, Mr. Archer liked his way too much to ever part with it. (I do not blame him at all. It is a royally sweet toy.) I thanked him profusely for the info and told him I can work as a slave whenever Hasbro needed. Just pay me in Bumblebees and I'm good. XD

I headed back up to the hotel about 45 minutes before the dealer room closed. I managed to show Crazy Steve and Karl Hartman the shots of Exclusive 'Bee. As I told them both, it kinda makes me wanna cry. But I'm not terribly worried. He will be mine. Oh yes, that little Exclusive RPM Bumblebee will be MINE! :cue evil laugh:

I'm just chillin' here in the hotel room right now. Prime and I have eaten and we're watching NCIS on USA. (Quick tip: If you're staying at the Walt Disney World Dolphin, your best bet for food is Picabu. They are very reasonable and the food is pretty damn good.) Tomorrow's going to be a full day: lots of panels, autographs and the Hall of Fame ceremony. I'm going to scream my head off when they induct Bumblebee. Just letting everyone know in advance.

--Weasel, "Only took 26 years before my baby got props. So yeah, I'm gonna be a little hyper..."