When In Rome & Smoothie Song

Starting with my last post, I'm going to introduce you to some of my favorite songs and artist.

While I have only been able to find Nickel Creek's self titled album, they are still one of my favorite groups to listen to. The three members of Nickel Creek are an extremely talented group of musicians. Nickel Creek's music sounds just as great, if not better when it's just them picking (no singing).
Nickel Creek is currently taking a break from touring as a group, as (some) members of the group either work on solo albums or something.

Their songs range from sad ballads to upbeat songs that has you tapping your fingers along to the music.

The two songs that I picked showcase their versatility as musicians.

(Smoothie Song)

(When in Rome)

My musical tastes tend to range from mainstream, classic, and bluegrass (in country music) all the way to a little bit of classic rock (AC/DC and The Rolling Stones). I even find myself drawn to classical music these days. Mainly Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture", which I now have on my i-pod (yay).

Dame Orchid

Johnny Cash

While I know that most people that read this blog aren't big country music fans, I am going to post this video for one of my favorite Johnny Cash Songs.
The video for "God's Gonna Cut You Down" has a star studded cast of celebrities like, Johnny Depp and Chris Rock.

If you're daring enough to watch the video I would love to hear your thoughts on this song.



If you liked this song, some other great songs by Johnny Cash are "A Boy Named Sue" and "Sunday Morning Coming Down".

Dame Orchid

Something Rotten

It took me one day to finish Something Rotten and about a week to get around to writing the review (sorry). I would have had this up sooner but I have gotten hooked on Guitar Hero.

Something Rotten is the first of the Horatio Wilkes Mystery series by Alan Gratz.

Before I had even read the book I already knew how it would end, having already read Hamlet. Horatio was one of those characters that just makes you laugh with his witty sarcasm. My favorite line in the book was when Horatio said, "Personally, I'm a little tired of every author putting a modern spin on a "classic". I also enjoyed the play on names used by Alan Gratz (i.e. Ford N. Branff for Fortinbras).

Ally Carter, one of my all time favorite authors, is hosting a live chat that will cover Something Rotten on December 30th (Something Rotten is Ally's pick for her book club). For more information on the live chat visit Ally Diary.

"Denmark, Tennessee, stinks. The smell hits Horatio Wilkes the moment he pulls into town to visit his best friend, Hamilton Prince. And it's not just the paper plant and the polluted river that's stinking up Denmark: Hamilton's father has been poisoned and the killer is still at large. Why? Because nobody believes that Rex Prince was murdered. Nobody except Horatio and Hamilton. Now they need to find the killer, but it won't be easy. It seems like everyone in Denmark is a suspect. Motive, means, opportunity- they all have them. But who among them has committed murder most foul?"

I give this book 4 out of 5 cameo pendents.
Dame Orchid

What Are You President of?

Last night I took this quiz to see what I would be president of. It said that I was the President of a secret organization.

To take this quiz click the picture, then let me know "What Are You President Of?"

I can't wait to see if anyone else is the president of a secret organization.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays.

Dame Orchid

Evil Little Shoes

As Christmas Eve draws near I am preparing for the pain which I know will be in my future. Every year on Christmas Eve my family and I attend midnight mass, except this years midnight mass isn't at midnight it's at nine (but they still call it midnight mass). Every time we go I am forced to wear high heels (which I hate). Last week I got three bad blisters on both of my feet and they still hurt.

So I've decided to put a list of reasons for and against wearing high heels (plus a picture of the pair that gave me blisters).

"Reasons for not wearing high-heels include:
they can cause foot pain
they can create foot deformities, including hammertoes and bunions
they can cause an unsteady gait
they can shorten the wearer's stride
they can render the wearer unable to run
altered forces at the knee caused by walking in high-heels may predispose to degenerative changes in the knee joint

Women who wear high heels frequently have a higher incidence of degenerative joint disease of the knees. This is because they cause a decrease in the normal rotation of the foot which puts more rotation stress on the knee
Podiatrists often comment that 75 percent of their business is caused by females wearing tall high heeled shoes.

Reasons for wearing high-heels, which are almost exclusively aesthetic, include:
they change the angle of the foot with respect to the lower leg, which accentuates the appearance of calves
they change the wearer's posture, requiring a more upright carriage and altering the gait in what is considered a seductive fashion
they make the wearer appear taller
they make the legs appear longer
they make the foot appear smaller
they make the lower leg muscles more defined while wearing tight pants
they make the wearer look flexibly strong."

Even after reading why some people wear high heels, it still doesn't make me want to go and wear my heels every single day. I am just fine with wearing them maybe two to three times a year (no more than that).

Dame Orchid

Wolverine The Beginning

X-men Origins: Wolverine; I can't wait for this movie! I loved the first two X-men movies, the third one was good, but not as good as the previous two. Plus I think that Hugh Jackman is one of the best actors and he has a really cool accent.

I recommend watching The Prestige. It has both Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale (or Wolverine and Batman).


"Set roughly twenty years before X-Men, the film will focus on Wolverine's violent past, and his early encounters with William Stryker (Danny Huston). The Weapon X program and his interactions with other mutants will be explored, including his complex relationship with Sabretooth (Liev Schreiber)."



X-men Origins: Wolverine hits theaters on May 1, 2009.


Dame Orchid

P.S.
In the next day or so I will post my review on Something Rotten by Alan Gratz.

Wolverine and the X-men

One of the things that tends to get me really excited is.... comics. I know it might seem a bit weird, but I really do enjoy just about anything that has to do with comic books. Be it comics turned into movies or TV shows.
Which means I am really looking forward to the latest X-men cartoon. My only hope is that it is better then the original X-men show that now occasionally shows on Toon Disney.

The latest X-men show will be called Wolverine and the X-men and will be playing on Nicktoons Network, with it's premiere in January of 2009.


I'll leave you with the synopsis of the show plus the trailer.

"After the mansion explodes, apparently due to an attack targeted at telepaths, Professor Charles Xavier and Jean Grey are missing. The X-Men disband and Cyclops begins to suffer from depression. One year later, the MRD (Mutant Response Division) is starting to detain mutants causing Wolverine and Beast to get the X-Men back together. Iceman, Shadowcat and Forge rejoin the team. Rogue joins up with the Brotherhood. The X-Mansion is rebuilt with Angel's wealth. Emma Frost is able to locate a comatose Charles on Genosha in the care of Magneto. On hearing this, Cyclops returns to the team and X-Men go to Genosha to find Professor X. After a short battle with Magneto, they are allowed to take Professor X back with them to the X-Mansion. Professor X contacts the X-Men telepathically from twenty years into the future and informs Wolverine that he is to lead the X-Men if they wish to successfully save the world from The Sentinel Project and prevent the Brotherhood of Mutants and the Acolytes from taking over the world before the future ends up being dominated by Sentinels."


Dame Orchid

Not the V Word

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Title: Peeps

Series: Peeps (book 1)

Publication Date: 2005

Number of Pages: 304

Genre: YA/Sci-Fi

Synopsis: "A year ago, Cal Thompson was a college freshman more interested in meeting girls and partying than in attending biology class. Now, after a fateful encounter with a mysterious woman named Morgan, biology has become, literally, Cal's life.

Cal was infected by a parasite that has a truly horrifying effect on its host. Cal himself is a carrier, unchanged by the parasite, but he's infected the girlfriends he's had since Morgan. All three have turned into the ravening ghouls Cal calls Peeps. The rest of us know them as vampires. It's Cal's job to hunt them down before they can create more of their kind. . . ."

Okay, I know that Peeps came out in 2005, but I only got it, like, last week (it was awesome).

Peeps was one of the best books that I have read this year (I read it in four hours) and I have read a ton of books this year.

I really loved how tortured Cal seemed to be over the whole being a carrier and how he has to hunt down all of his former girlfriends. It was also funny how naive Cal was when he first arrived in New York. Peeps was a great blending of the supernatural, ancient myths, and history to keep you turning the pages till the very end. Without the book ever coming across as slow or muddled in it's plot. I would tell you more, but I don't want to give away anything and spoil it for those who haven't had a chance to read it yet.

One of the things that I really like about Scott Westerfeld's books is the characters. They all have such distinct personality's.

While this book is a great read, I do not recommend it to anyone who is squeamish or doesn't like reading little facts about real parasites and what they do to those that they inhabit (on every even numbered chapter).

I decided to put the covers for both the hardback and the reprint of the paperback (because I couldn't choose which one I liked more). You should check out their eyes on both covers their kind of freaky.

Orchid

Wonder Woman Movie Trailer

The following is the trailer for the Wonder Woman Animated Movie. I meant to put it up last time but I forgot.
It's for those of you who didn't check out the link, when I first posted about the movie.
Hope everyone enjoys it.

Dame Orchid

THE DARK KNIGHT

I loved this movie!

Reaper News

Finally, I was beginning to worry that Reaper had been cancelled, when I heard that it will be back. But, we'll have to wait till March for new episodes.
I was disappointed at first when I realized that I would have to wait a little over three months for the second season to start.
Until my friends were kind enough to point out to me, that at least it will be returning.
Dame Orchid

Plastic Wars Part 2

The other day I gave you my thoughts on Barbie Vs Bratz. Now, after reading an article on the judges ruling (you can read it below) that MGA will not have to remove the dolls from stores until after the holiday season, I think they should be pulled off the shelves sooner. Sure, there are probably children out there who would be devastated if they didn't receive the toy that they really want. But come on, if you do something wrong, your punishment should begin immediately. Not after you earn more money by selling your banned product! That's not how the system is supposed to work.

I would also like to thank everyone who posted their thoughts on this subject.
While everyone brought up excellent points, I do disagree with one thing. I never thought that Bratz hair or clothes were 'cool' or better looking than Barbie's. Even though I can see how they could be more appealing to the younger generation, since they are shorter and more 'child' like, I guess.

"On December 3, 2008, U.S. District Judge Stephen Larson banned MGA from selling Bratz. He allowed the company to continue selling the dolls until the winter holiday season ended. The ruling will be in effect on February 11, 2009 at the earliest, and Mattel and MGA will meet in court on that date. According to the terms of the court order, after the end of the holiday season, MGA must remove, at its own cost, all the Bratz dolls from store shelves, including the reimbursement of the cost of the dolls and all shipping costs to its vendors and distributors. The court gave exceptions for some toys if they are packaged separately from infringing toys. MGA announced that it would be appealing against the court's ruling."

I swear, this is the last you will hear about this from me.
Dame Orchid

Plastic Wars

Okay, this might seem a bit random, but here goes nothing.

VS

I am sure everyone has heard about the lawsuit that was going on between Barbie (Mattel) and Bratz (I don't know who makes them). I think it was yesterday that a judge ruled in favor of Mattel (yay).

I will be ecstatic when the Bratz dolls are finally off of store shelves. They set a horrible example for young girls. especially since children happen to be very impressionable (that goes for both girls and boys). It is also very appalling that any parent in their right mind would even think about buying those trashy dolls for their child.

At least Barbie has held various jobs throughout her existence (i.e. doctor, veterinarian, teacher, you get my point), while Bratz have done nothing more than set a poor example for today's youth.

In case everyone forgot, Mattel even changed the size of Barbie's waist from an hourglass, to something a little more believable.

Click to read more about Mattel Vs Bratz .

Dame Orchid

Take Me To Your Leader...

Haha, no, it's not that kind of alien book.

I finally read "The Dangerous Days of Daniel X" after putting off reading it for a couple of months, and I must say it has turned into one of my favorite books. The story is extremely fast paced, with an excellent cast of characters (I finished it in two hours).

Daniel's right, he definitely has the coolest power. You will be hard pressed to find a better book then "The Dangerous Days of Daniel X" (even if it is about aliens, it is well worth the time it takes to read it). I would totally tell you more about the book, but I am afraid that I might give something important away.

In my opinion James Patterson (author of Maximum Ride) has struck gold yet again with his latest series.

For another sparkling review of "The Dangerous Days of Daniel X" Check out Dahlia's Eclectic Mind .

"The greatest superpower of all isn't to be part spider, part man, or to cast magic spells -- the greatest power is the power to create.
Daniel has that power.
Daniel's secret abilities -- like being able to manipulate objects and animals with his mind or to recreate himself in any shape he chooses -- have helped him survive. But Daniel doesn't have a normal life. He is the protector of the earth, the Alien Hunter, with a mission beyond what anyone could imagine.
From the day that his parents were brutally murdered in front of his very eyes, Daniel has used his unique gifts to hunt down their assassin. Finally, with the help of The List bequeathed to him in his parents' dying breath, he has located the killer.
Now, on his own, he vows to take on his father's mission--and to have vengeance in the process."

Dame Orchid

Batman R.I.P.

Does anyone read Batman?

I seriously need to know did they kill Bruce Wayne/Batman? Who was behind everything (like the whole black glove thing)? And was the ending left as wide open as I have heard (I heard the end stunk, like M. Night Shyamalan's endings)? Any and all answers would be great. I really need to know, since Batman is like my favorite comic book character of all time (followed closely by Raven from T.T.)

If Batman is gone, I think Robin (Tim Drake) will be the next Batman, while my friend Dahlia disagrees. Who do you think will be the next Batman.

The following are links to a couple of articles on the ending of Batman R.I.P. news.bbc.co.uk http://geeksofdoom.com/2008/05/20/comic-review-batman-676-batman-rip-1/ http://www.tor.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=blog&id=9371

Dame Orchid

p.s. I think Batman will be back, maybe not in 2009. But he will be back. DC Comics would have to be completely INSANE if they left him DEAD dead (yes I know I wrote that twice).

The First Book

This past weekend we went to the used book store (the one where I found "Dragonwell Dead") and I found the first book in the Tea Shop Mystery series. I am so excited, I cannot wait to read "Death by Darjeeling" by Laura Childs.

"When a man is poisoned by tea, Theo is the prime suspect. Now she has to prove her innocence and track down the real killer-before someone else takes their last sip. Just the right blend of cozy fun and clever plotting. Tea lovers, mystery lovers, [this] is for you." (Susan Wittig Albert, author of Mistletoe Man)

So forgive me if I don't post as much this week. I have a whole stack of books that I still need to read, some that I have borrowed from my friends (i.e. "Daniel X" and "Howl's Moving Castle") plus a few of my own.

Dame Orchid

W.W. Movie Update

Sorry, the Wonder Woman movie actually does come out in February. March is the release date of the Blue Ray Disc and On Demand.

Dame Orchid

Wonder Woman Animated Movie

Being a pretty big fan of comic books, I am super excited about the latest DC Universe animated movie. (Personally) I think that it is about time that Wonder Woman is getting a movie (even if it is just an animated one). if you liked Batman: Gotham Knight, Superman Doomsday, and Justice League: The New Frontier, You're sure to love Wonder Woman.

To see the trailer, click on the link wonder woman.

"On the mystical island of Themyscria, a proud and fierce warrior race of Amazons have raised a daughter of untold beauty, grace and strength – Princess Diana. When an army fighter pilot, Steve Trevor crash-lands on the island, the rebellious and headstrong Diana defies Amazonian law by accompanying Trevor back to civilization. Meanwhile, Ares (the god of War) has escaped his imprisonment at the hands of the Amazonians and has decided to exact his revenge using the mystical “Hand of Rage,” an ancient artifact with the power to raise armies from the dead and infuse them with a thirst for blood. Ares intends to start a world war that will not only last for centuries – but will wipe out every living being on the planet, starting with the Amazons! It is up to Princess Diana to save her people and the world – by using her gifts and becoming the ultimate Wonder Woman!"

The movie actually doesn't come out till March 3, 2009 (unless they change it again).

Wonder Woman can also be found in here on comic book series (which I love).

Dame Orchid Forsythia

Happy Thanksgiving

Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I will try to make this as short as possible.

Being a cooking holiday, Thanksgiving is stressful. With all of the work that goes into making the turkey, pies, rolls, and various other things (depending on your families tradition). Here is what my day is going to look like.

1. My family will drag me out of bed at some disgusting hour (I am so not a morning person) to watch the Macy's Day Parade.

2. I'll clean up the kitchen

3.Then we start cooking (I hate to cook)

4. I will clean the kitchen again

5. Next we check on the turkey (and try to figure out when to start the sides)

6. Make sure the counters are clean and the dishes are done (are we sensing a theme here?)

7. Start putting the side dishes together.

8. Set the table.

9. Eat (finally)

10. And last but not least, Clean the kitchen (I hope everything fits into one load!)

Oh, how I love the chaos of the holiday season!

Happy Thanksgiving,

Dame Orchid

X Marks the Spot

One of my more embarrassing guilty pleasures happens to be The Princess Diaries series by Meg Cabot (I love Meg's YA books).
I am so excited about the upcoming release of "Forever Princess" in January (I wish it would be out in time for Christmas), even though Mia makes me so mad sometimes (OK, most of the time), because she is so self obsorbed (I won't say any more, just in case you didn't read "Princess Mia"). And don't even get me started on Lily her (ex) best friend, who (is extremly jealous of Mia) hates that Mia's a princess (she started Ihatemiathermopolis.com, but could there a reason behind Lily's madness?).

I wonder, does anyone else (sometimes) prefer sidekick, bestfriend, non main characters, over the star of the book?

"The Princess Diaries wraps up in a series finale certain to please the legions of Princess Mia fans. Cabot shows off her singular ability to retread her story lines while leaving audiences breathless to get to the last page: Mia will be certain that this time she's sunk, for real, and oblivious to what is writ large to everyone around her. Here she copes with the pressures of prom (J.P. hasn't asked her), graduation and college acceptances (she's lied through her teeth about them), not to mention her 18th birthday and a party orchestrated by the imposing Grandmère. And why doesn't anyone want to publish her pseudonymous romance novel, Ransom My Heart? (Brief excerpts are tossed in, and absolute devotees can polish off the entire work. When former boyfriend Michael returns from Japan with his revolutionary medical technology a complete success, Mia is where readers love her: insecure and self-deprecating. By now, however, she understands that being royal means "always being the bigger person, and being kind to others"-and she can act accordingly. A character like this deserves the happy ending Cabot virtually guarantees."

Dame Orchid

Reaper, Will You Ever Return?

I have a love/hate relationship with this time of year, I love the fact the the holidays are just around the corner (yay), But then on the other hand ALL of my shows are going on break (so very bored). Last week was the last episode of Supernatural for the year, my other favorite show Reaper hasn't even started it's second season (please, say it isn't canceled), so now I am forced to wait till January for more Supernatural, Burn Notice, and Psych, by the way Psych has a Christmas special playing on the 28th of this month (this show is so funny, Shawn and Gus rock).

Does anyone know if Reaper will be returning anytime?

So for those unfortunate souls who have never seen Reaper, here is a synopsis on the show.

Reaper

"Sam Oliver lives at home with his parents and brother in the Seattle area. He has always wondered why his mom and dad were so easy on him, whether it was sports, school, or career choices, and so hard on his younger brother. Sam dropped out of college ("It made him sleepy", Sock explains) and takes a dead-end job at the Work Bench, a home-repair superstore similar to Home Depot. He spends the rest of his time hanging out, playing video games, and pining for his co-worker, Andi.
On Sam's 21st birthday, his parents are behaving very strangely, and Sam himself is seeing hellish visions and experiencing odd events. His father eventually explains that many years ago, he was very sick, and in return for restoring his health, he and his wife promised their firstborn child to the Devil. Although the couple intended to cheat the Devil by having no children, this plan went awry when Satan convinced their doctor to lie and tell the couple that they could not conceive in exchange for wiping his gambling debts clean. Sam is born shortly thereafter.
After informing him of his fate, the Devil explains to Sam that he must serve as his bounty hunter (or "Reaper"), tracking down souls that have escaped from Hell and sending them back using his new powers (which have included telekinesis and electrical powers) and vessels, varied objects said to have been hand-made in the bowels of perdition by the iniquitous and the vile. Vessels appear inside a long wooden box sent for Sam to open (with the Italian inscription "Lasciate ogni speranza, voi ch'entrate" ("Abandon hope, all ye who enter here"), as was written on the entrance to Hell in Dante's Inferno, and are specially designed for each job. Examples throughout the series have included a Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner, a Taser gun, and a cigarette lighter.
Although Sam initially balks, Satan tells him that should he refuse, then Sam's mother's soul is forfeit. Unwilling to sacrifice his mother, and convinced that he is doing good in the world by tracking down evil souls, Sam accepts his fate. With the help of his slacker friends Sock and Ben, he begins his new life tracking down the corrupted souls trying to escape their own eternal rewards."

Dame Orchid

Wanted!

Having read just about every book in our house, I am looking for a new

author(s) and book(s) to read. Hopefully, with your help I can find something new to read.

Truly I am not a very picker reader, having read books all the way from Meg Cabot's "The Princess Dairies" to Dan Brown's "Angels and Demons". If it's Mysteries, Thrillers, Horror, Fiction, and Sci-Fi. I say, the more ideas the merrier.

If anyone has any (and I mean any) ideas, just let me know. I will check out all suggestions. Though I do have one rule, NO romance novels please.

Dame Orchid Forsythia

Tea and Mysteries!!!

Early last week, I was at a used book store and picked up a book called "Dragonwell Dead" by Laura Childs (unfortunately it's the eighth book in the Tea Shop Mystery series,) so far it's really good (like, can't wait to read another good). I am even tempted to try a couple of the recipes in the back (it's weird, I don't even like to cook.)


For those who are interested, but would like to read the series from the beginning, the first book is called "Death By Darjeeling" (I saw this one at the book store, but I didn't know it was the first one, so instead I got "Dragonwell Dead".) The Tea Shop Mystery's follow Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop (Theo's dog is named Earl Grey, isn't that the cutest name for a dog?)

"Dragonwell Dead"

"Each spring, Charleston's upper crust opens their sprawling gardens to the public for the Spring Plantation Ramble, an occasion for flower shows, rare-plant auctions, and contagious spring fever. Although Theodosia Browning barely knows a Phalaenopis from a bog rose, she still enjoys the Ramble, especially since she can promote her Indigo Tea Shop and her latest concoction, Dragonwell Sweet Tea. But the festivities come to a screeching halt when commodities broker Mark Congdon wins a bid for a rare-monkey-face orchid-and promptly dies. It looks like a simple heart attack, but both Theo and his widow suspect that someone purposely turned his green thumb blue..."

To see a list of all the books written by Laura Childs visit her website by Clicking here

Music Challenge

Today's challenge will be name that song. I will give you some of the lyrics (it would be to easy if I gave you all of the lyrics) from a song. Your job is to name either the song title or the artist. Without further ramblings on my part, here is your first (and only) clue.

"The Declaration of Independence

Think I could tell you that first sentence but than I'm lost

I can't begin to count the theories

I've had pounded in my head that I forgot

I don't remember all that Spanish

Or the Gettysburg Address

But there is one speech from High School

I'll never forget."

Good Luck!!!

HALO 2

My current goal is....to finish all of the video games that I own. One of the X-box games I am (still) stuck in is HALO 2, I'm so lost I don't even know where I am in this game. If anyone can give me some tips I would really, really appreciate it. I borrowed (OK, more like "adopted") this game from my Dad, who never really gave it a chance.

HALO 2, the current bane of my existence.

"Halo 2 takes place in the same science fiction universe as Halo. According to the story, humans have colonized numerous worlds due to the development of faster-than-light travel. Twenty-seven years before the beginning of Halo 2, the outer colony world of Harvest was destroyed by a collection of alien races, called the Covenant. Since then, the humans and the Covenant have been locked in a bloody war, with the UNSC forces continually losing major engagements. The Cole Protocol was created in the hope of preventing the Covenant from discovering human population centers, particularly Earth itself. However, shortly before the events of Halo 2, the Master Chief heads to Earth after destroying a Covenant fleet to ward off an impending Covenant attack on humanity's home planet."

Again, if anyone can help me with this game (I mean win this game,) that would be awesome.

Most Wanted Book List

After having picked up "Hacking Harvard" on a whim, and loving it so much that I have re-read it too many times to keep track of, I decided to read the write up for Robin Wasserman's new book "Skinned". It has quickly jumped to being on my Top Ten Most Wanted Books List (as in books I would like to read.) "Skinned"also happens to be the first book in the series. Fans of Scott Westerfeld's "Uglies" and Meg Cabot's "Airhead" should enjoy reading Robin Wasserman's "Skinned".

"Skinned" by Robin Wasserman
"Lia Kahn was perfect: rich, beautiful, popular -- until the accident that nearly killed her. Now she has been downloaded into a new body that only looks human. Lia will never feel pain again, she will never age, and she can't ever truly die. But she is also rejected by her friends, betrayed by her boyfriend, and alienated from her old life.
Forced to the fringes of society, Lia joins others like her. But they are looked at as freaks. They are hated...and feared. They are everything but human, and according to most people, this is the ultimate crime -- for which they must pay the ultimate price.
VOYA"



I love books where the main characters world is turned upside down.

Musings of a Non Twilighter

First off I am tired of all the hype surrounding the "Twilight" books and movie, not to mention the fact that just about EVERY comment section and message board that I read is cluttered with ramblings about "Twilight". Twilighter's even talk about the series on other author's blogs, when the post has absolutely nothing to do with the book at all. I have toyed with reading "Twilight" off and on since it originally came out (I'd pick it up at Barnes and Noble then immediately change my mind.)

I would like to dedicate this post to those who either didn't like the "Twilight" series, or have never read (and don't plan) on reading it.

For those of you who are not reading the "Twilight" series I suggest looking into some REAL vampire books such as:

"Interview With the Vampire" by Anne Rice

"Shattered Mirror" by Amelia Atwater Rhodes (The whole Den of Shadow series is one of my favorites.)

"Bloodline" and "Reckoning" by Kate Cary

While this book is not vampire (because it's about zombies)related "Generation Dead" by Daniel Water, is definitely worth reading.

But if you're looking for a truly great read try "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

While Stephanie Meyer's book may turn out to be a decent read, I think I'll hold off on it for awhile(like till the excitement dies down! way down.)

P.S.

"Harry Potter" annihilated "Twilight".

Final score Harry Potter 75% Twilight 25%.

Rogue Angel

What most people don't know, is that the highly addictive "Rogue Angel" series is authored by numerous writers (I hope this snippet does not ruin it for anyone). Alex Archer is the house name used by Harlequin's Gold Eagle division.


"Rogue Angel" was created by Randall Toy, an executive of Harlequin. After falling in love with the history of Joan of Arc, he decided to create a modern day Joan of Arc.

The first eight books in the series are written by Victor Milan, and Mel Odom. After the ninth book, new writers have joined their predecessors to work on this series.

Each of the books follows Annja Creed, Archaeologist, TV personality, and most importantly current wielder of Joan of arcs sword. Annja Creed's adventures never fail to entertain as she traverses the world, looking for ancient relics, myths, legends. Oh yeah, and saving the world.

So far there are fourteen books (with plenty more in the works) in the series.

In chronological order "Rogue Angel" consists of:

"Destiny"

"Soloman's Jar"

"The Spider Stone"

"The Chosen"

"Forbidden City"

"The Lost Scrolls"

"God of Thunder"

"Secret of the Slaves"

"Warrior Spirit"

"Serpent's Kiss"

"Provenance"

"The Soul Stealer"

"Gabriel's Horn"

"The Golden Elephant"

With "Swordsman's Legacy" now available at your locale bookseller. "Polar Quest" out January 13, 2009, and "Eternal Journey" March 10, 2009.

Lady A

I am a huge music fan (who in my families opinion) listens to the radio way too much. But I really can't help it. Everyone says, "Orchid, turn your music down." But I do try to give every new artist, band, ect... a chance. *stop looking at me like that * The truth of the matter is, I don't like DIVA's, and I can only stand a few of those sickeningly, sappy love songs, or worse yet (I hate these the most) those I didn't get what I want, poor me songs!

Terribly sorry for that mild rant, back to music. While I am sure that by now, you have probably heard (if you haven't, you have probably been living under a rock)of Lady Antebellum. Their first single "Love Don't Live Here" was awesome, their follow up single "Looking For A Good Time" was just as good (if not better). As one of the newest groups to hit the radio, their CD is definitely worth buying.

If your looking for new music, I suggest giving Lady A a chance.

Another great song to check out is The Zac Brown Band's "Chicken fried".

P.S.

For those who liked the song "When It Rains" by The Eli Young Band, I highly recommend sampling the CD on Itunes before you purchase it. I was going to ask for it.... Until I sampled it and realized I only liked the one song.

CMA Awards

As most country music fans know, this upcoming Wednesday is the 42nd annual CMA awards show. I personally have my favorites who I hope will dominate the show, and those who I hope (as bad as it sounds) go home empty handed. Without further ado, I give you this year's list of nominees.

Musician of the Year:

Jerry Douglas

Paul Franklin

Dann Huff

Brent Mason

Mac McAnally

Music Video of the Year:

"Don't Blink" by Kenny Chesney.

"Good Time" by Alan Jackson.

"Stay" by Sugarland.

"Waiting on a Woman" by Brad Paisley.

"You're Gonna Miss This" by Trace Adkins.

Musical Event of the Year:

"Another Try" Josh Turner featuring Trisha Yearwood.

"Every Other Weekend" Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney.

"Gone, Gone, Gone" Alison Krauss and Robert Plant.

"Life in a Northern Town" Sugarland, Little Big Town, and Jake Owen.

"Shiftwork" Kenny Chesney, and George Strait.

Song of the Year:

"Good Time" Alan Jackson.

"I Saw God Today" Rodney Clawson, Monty Criswell, and Wade Kirby.

"Letter to Me" Brad Paisley.

"Stay" Jennifer Nettles.

"You're Gonna Miss This" Ashley Gorley, and Lee Thomas Miller.

Album of the Year:

"Carnival Ride" Carrie Underwood (she so does NOT deserve to win)

"Cowboy Town" Brooks and Dunn (maybe)

"Good Time" Alan Jackson (I like Alan Jackson)

"Just Who I am: Poets and Pirates" Kenny Chesney (I love the song "Better as a Memory)

"Troubadour" George Strait (I love George Strait, everything he does is simply amazing)

Single of the Year:

"Don't Blink" Kenny Chesney.

"Gunpowder and Lead" Miranda Lambert (definitely one of her best songs)

"I Saw God Today" George Strait (one of my all time favorites)

"Stay" Sugarland.

"You're Gonna Miss This" Trace Adkins (this song was a bit over played)

Vocal Duo of the Year:

Big & Rich (I don't really care for their music)

Brooks and Dunn (Could their reign be over?)

Montgomery Gentry

Sugarland (their kind of weird)

The Wreckers (the one album wonders)

Vocal Group of the Year:

Eagles (I love their song "Busy Being Fabulous")

Emerson Drive (everyone should buy their CDs, they are one of the best bands out there today)

Lady Antebellum (Lady A, has a very bright future)

Little Big Town (LBT have some of the best vocals, and they harmonize so well with each other)

Rascal Flatts (oh god, I'm so torn. I like all of these groups)

New Artist of the Year (formerly the Horizon Award):

Jason Aldean (great songs from "Hicktown" to " Do You Wish it Was Me?")

Rodney Atkins (I recommend listening to "Cleaning This Gun" it's so funny)

Lady Antebellum (I already love this group)

James Otto (couldn't care less about him)

Kellie Pickler (her latest single "Don't You Know You're Beautiful" sends out a great message)

Female Vocalist of the Year:

Allison Krauss (it be would nice if she won)

Miranda Lambert (out of most of the newer singers, she's one of my favorites)

Martina McBride (she has in my opinion, one of the best voices in the business)

Taylor Swift (while she may be a nice enough girl, I don't like her music nor do I want her to win)

Carrie Underwood (DIVA, DIVA, DIVA,what more is there to say other than she's my least favorite)

Male Vocalist of the Year:

Kenny Chesney (spends maybe to much time at the beach)

Alan Jackson (now his music still sounds like it's country)

Brad Paisley (some of his songs are just so funny, like "Mr. Policeman")

George Strait (should win everything he's nominated for)

Keith Urban (wow, this is the first time I've mentioned him in this post)

Entertainer of the Year:

Kenny Chesney (I want someone else to win)

Brad Paisley (while I think it would be nice if he won, I'm not rooting for him)

Sugarland (go away, you're to new to be here)

Keith Urban (sorry, don't want you to win this year either)

George Strait (now this is who I really, really want to win. He deserves to win Entertainer of the Year)

I hope everyone enjoyed reading this, as much as I enjoyed writing it. Feel free to let me know if I have dismissed your favorite artist, as nothing more than a "pretty" face. :)

(Disclaimer) All opinions are those of writer Dame Orchid, you are free (not) to root for whomsoever you choose.

We Have A Winner!!!

Next time, I'll put something a little more recognizable(maybe, maybe not). And the answer for "Human blood is no cement for the temple of liberty." (Drum roll, please) is Daniel O'Connell. I'd like to thank Lady Dahlia, who guessed the answer. Yay Dahlia, congratulations on your victory.

And the score stands at,

Dame Orchid 0, readers 1.
(No one will guess the next one, mwhahahahah cough hahahahaha.)

Trivial Pursuit

Okay, time for a little bit of trivia. The only thing you need to do is be the first to answer the question of who authored the following quote.

"Human blood is no cement for the temple of liberty."

_ a _ _ _ l

_'_ _ n _ _ _ l

(All guesses should be placed in the comments section.)

P.S. I filled in a couple of letters, I hope it helps.

* They'll never figure it out, mwahahahahaha . Wait, you weren't supposed to hear that!*

An Acquired Taste

Last time I was at the store, I bought a newish/old movie, it originally came out in 2006. While it might be an acquired taste, "Ultraviolet" is none the less a movie that should at least be given a chance.

"Milla Jovovich, stars in this story of a woman caught in a futuristic civil war between the government and a subculture of disease-modified humans in whom speed, strength, and intelligence are magnified. To protect a young boy who has been marked for death, she must fend off the human government."

(If you have seen X-3, you might recognize Six, he played Leech/Jimmy in X-3.)

*note to readers who might be interested in seeing "Ultraviolet" the extended version makes more sense then the theatrical one.*

Books I Will Most Likely NEVER Get to Finish!

Okay, time for the end of my book rant! I'm sure there are a lot of people out there who have started reading a book series, only to find out that either:

a) The rest of the series is no longer in print.

b) That the author never finished writing the series.

c) The series was dropped by it's publisher, and not picked up by another.

Either way with B) and C) you will never find out how it ends. On the other hand, you don't necessarily have to have a new copy of the book, used books are just as nice.

The last series on my list is"CHERUB" by Robert Muchamore. Yes, it's another spy series,*I swear, that I'm pretty sure, I mentioned how much I love spy books*. "CHERUB" follows James Adams.

"CHERUB agents are all seventeen and under. They wear skate tees and hemp, and look like regular kids. But their not. They are trained professionals who are sent out on missions to spy on international drug dealers. CHERUB agents hack into computers, bug entire houses, and download crucial documents. It is a highly dangerous job. For their safety, These agents DO NOT EXIST."

An article on"CHERUB" can also be found on Lady Dahlia's blog at http://www.dahliaseclecticmind.blogspot.com/

"CHERUB" will have twelve books in all. But only "The Recruit", "The Dealer", "Maximum Security", "The Killing", "Divine Madness", and "Man vs. Beast" are available in the U.S. The rest of the series can only be bought overseas. There will also be a prequel series called "Henderson's Boys" Feel free to visit Robert Muchamore's website by clicking here

Series that I Will Most Likely NEVER Get to Finish!! Part 2

Yesterday I covered the "Ravenscliff" series. Today, we'll hear about "Spy High" written by A.J. Butcher. Which happens to be one of the best spy books I have ever read! "Spy high" has two different series.

The first of which follows Eddie, Ben, Cally, Lori, Jake, and Jennifer, the newest students to be called Bond team. Each of the four teams is named after fictional spy's like James Bond, Napoleon Solo, Richard Hannay, and Harry Palmer. They will have to overcome their differences to make it to graduation.

The first series consists of "Mission One", Chaos Rising", "The Serpent Scenario", "Paranoia Plot", "Blood Relations", and "The Annihilation Agenda".

"This year's Bond Team at Deveraux Academy is an unorthodox group—from Cally, a skilled computer hacker living on the streets, to Jake, the only student ever to have come from the agri-domes of the Midwest. At first, in-fighting and incompetence push Bond Team to within a hair's breadth of expulsion. But when the team is sent on a wilderness survival trip, they uncover a secret lab run by a maniac with the power and resources to threaten world security. Suddenly, expulsion is the least of Bond Team's worries"

The sixth book in the first series was Never published in the United States, neither was the second series.

Series That I Will Most Likely NEVER Get to Finish!!!

Over the past few years I came across three series that I might never get a chance to finish reading. Two of the series are by British authors, the third author is possibly American.

I think I'll start with Geoffrey Huntington's (not his real name)"Ravenscliff" series, it follows young Devon March.

"Is this the destiny he had come to find? To die in a house of secrets, to discover not his past but his fate: doomed to spend eternity as one more ghost haunting the halls of Ravenscliff?"

After the mysterious death of his father, Devon is sent to live with a friend of the family at the dreary seaside house of Ravenscliff. Shortly after his arrival to Misery Point, he learns that he is part of a three-thousand year-old tradition of magic and mysticism, a sorcerer of the Order of the Nightwing. Can he survive the mysteries that are deeply rooted at Ravenscliff long enough to stop a madman? Will Devon be able to decide who he can trust? Ravenscliff was published by Reagan Books which WAS an imprint of Harper Collins, sadly RB went under, the third book "Blood Moon" was completed, but it never made it to publication. I guess I'll never know how it ends *Gives a long dramatic sigh*.

Number One, of My Top 5

I know, I've been dragging this out for awhile, but it's finally time to find out what is currently my absolutely, positively favorite Agatha Christie book, character(s). So I have recently read one of the Tommy & Tuppence Novels, and I have to say that they cracked me up.

Tommy is offered a potentially dangerous top secret job, while Tuppence who refuses to be left out of anything, decides to get involved, chaos ensues.

1. "N or M"

This suspenseful tale, takes place during WWII. Where it finds the Beresford's now matured, but still doing what they do best... having adventures. As this unlikely spy duo help to defend their country by routing out two highly placed Fifth Columnist. After being asked by the British Intelligence Service to go and stay at the Sans Souci guest house. Tommy shocked to see Tuppence there, leads them to team up to find out which of the guests is N or M.

To find out more about Agatha Christie visit the following link.

here

Poll results!!

Making a remarkable come back to win the Favorite Book poll is.....Scott Westerfeld's "Uglies", followed by a three way tie for second between James Patterson's "Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment", Kirsten Miller's "Kiki Strike: Inside the Shadow City", and Ally Carter's "I'd Tell You I Love You, But Than I'd Have to Kill You". To me all four books are a must read, and a must re-read. I'd like to give a big thank you to everyone who voted in the poll.

P.S. The last of my top 5 Agatha Christie books will be out tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.

Artist of the decade

This year George Strait will be joining the likes of Marty Robbins (1969), Loretta Lynn (1979), Alabama (1988), and Garth Brooks (1998), as the ACM's Artist of the Decade. To read the complete article click here

Top 5 cont

One of my favorite characters happens to be Superintendent Battle. His supposedly slow thinking is nothing more than a facade, to lure unsuspecting witnesses to reveal what they really know. He is also known for his stolid grace in the face of his sometimes irksome investigations.

2. "Towards Zero"

It all begins with an invitation to Gull's Point, the seaside home of Lady Tressilian, a humourless old woman, who is confined to her bed. However, her tiresome, yet handsome nephew tennis star Neville Strange, incurs her wrath when he re-introduces his new wife Kay, to his ex-wife Audrey, which causes no end of romantic misunderstandings. But events soon take a dark turn, when Lady Tressilian is killed where she sleeps. Superintendent Battle is supposed to be taking a much needed vacation at his nephew's home, when he is called in to assist Inspector James Leach in the case of the murder of Lady Tressilian.

Top 5 cont, Part 3

Today's character of interest is the ever eccentric Ariadne Oliver author to many "famous" detective novels. She firmly believes that Scotland Yard should be run by a woman. With her unruly gray hair, which she is most fond of experimenting with, she will keep you laughing throughout any book she happens to be in.

3. "The Pale Horse"

Could it really have been Thomasina Tuckerton, heiress turned bohemian beat girl, reportedly seen brawling at a cafe with another woman? Her obituary seems to confirm the theory. The unfortunate demise of Thomasina might have gone unnoticed, had it not been for the Priest who got coshed upside the head days later. The possible connection, a list of names found in the late Father's shoes, among the names was.... Miss Tuckerton's, which leads the investigation to a former country inn, now a house called The Pale Horse. When a sinister pattern begins to emerge that is woven by three unusual women, a psychic, a medium, and a witch each with their own secret to hide.

Halloween

Since Halloween is only a few days away, I thought I'd post about a few of my favorite scary/supernatural themed movies, and books. Being a big fan of everything vampire, from Bram Stokers classic "Dracula", to the stylized action movie of "Underworld". These are my top 3 picks, I will also put a list at the end of some other similar themed books, and movies.

1. Since it's first publication in 1897, "Dracula" has had its readers addicted to its rich cast of characters, and the ultimate face off between good, and evil. Bram Stokers "Dracula" is a must read for those who truly enjoy a great vampire novel.

2. "Underworld" Vampires VS Lycans ( or werewolves) what more can anyone ask for? The world of the night belongs entirely to those that are no longer completely human. As they struggle to find out who is the superior species. With its spectacular fight scenes, and the complexity of the characters as they try to find there own way.

3. If you're going to watch "Psycho" the best version is the original. Directed by Alfred Hitchcock. To think all the trouble begins, with the theft of $10,000, a case of paranoia, and the unfortunate luck of stopping at Bate's Motel. I absolutely loved this movie.

If you think any of your favorite Halloween movies have been unjustly left out, feel free to let me know by stopping by and commenting.

1. "The Haunting"


2. "Interview with the Vampire" the book, or movie.


3. "Demon in My View" by Amelia Atwater Rhodes.


4. "Disturbia"


5. "The Exorcism of Emily Rose"


6. "The Jewel of Seven Stars" by Bram Stoker.


7. "Van Helsing"


8. "Dreadful Sorry" by Kathryn Reiss


9. "Supernatural" season 1, 2, 3


10. "Reaper" season 1
    
11. "Sleepy Hollow"

Happy All Hallows' Eve,
Dame Orchid

Top 5 cont.

Today's book will be about the obnoxiously, yet brilliant Belgium detective Hercule Poirot. Who just so happens to be obsessed with the maintenance and superiority of his mustache.

4. "Cards on the Table"

What starts as an amicable evening of bridge, quickly takes a deadly turn when their eccentric host Mr. Shaitana is found dead. Can the four invited inspectors Hercule Poirot, Colonel Race, Ariadne Oliver, and Inspector Battle uncover who of the remaining guests is the murderer? Further investigations reveal that they had both opportunity, and motive.

Top 5

Over the next five days, I will be reviewing some of my favorite Agatha Christie books. Each book on the list will showcase one of her famous detectives, Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Inspector Battle, Tommy and Tuppence, and Ariadne Oliver.
Today's book will center around the feisty octogenarian, Miss Marple.

5. "A Caribbean Mystery" Takes place as Miss Marple is recovering from a case of pneumonia, in the warm sun of the West Indies, with it's beautiful scenery, where everyday seems the same as the one before. Until one of the guests of the hotel dies unexpectedly, thrusting Miss Marple into a fast paced investigation.

Death on the Nile

I have recently rediscovered one of my favorite authors, Agatha Christie.

I have just read "Death on the Nile" for the 5th or 6th time. Her stories are so well written that no matter how many times I read them, it's still like the first time. You will both love and hate the characters, as you try to figure out who the murderer is. I give this book 5 stars.

"Death on the Nile"

Linnet Doyle is young, beautiful, and rich. She's the girl who has everything--including the man her best friend loves. When Linnet and her new husband take a cruise on the Nile, they meet brilliant detective Hercule Poirot. It should be an idyllic trip, yet Poirot feels that something is amiss.

X-rays emitted from ordinary Scotch tape - Innovation- msnbc.com

Today I read a fascinating article on scotch tape and X-rays. Scientists have discovered that when you peel scotch tape off the roll in a vacuum chamber, it emits X-rays. Researchers have even made an X-ray image of one of their fingers. If you like the article you can click the following link to read the rest of it.

X-rays emitted from ordinary Scotch tape - Innovation- msnbc.com: "NEW YORK - Just two weeks after a Nobel Prize highlighted theoretical work on subatomic particles, physicists are announcing a startling discovery about a much more familiar form of matter: Scotch tape.
It turns out that if you peel the popular adhesive tape off its roll in a vacuum chamber, it emits X-rays. The researchers even made an X-ray image of one of their fingers.
Who knew? Actually, more than 50 years ago, some Russian scientists reported evidence of X-rays from peeling sticky tape off glass. But the new work demonstrates that you can get a lot of X-rays, a study co-author says.
Story continues below ↓

Welcome!!!

First off I would like to welcome you to my blog,

The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia.

I will post about whatever catches my attention. From movies, books, music, comics, and blogs that I think are a must read for everyone. If anyone is looking for a great read, I highly recommend "The Secret Hour" by Scott Westerfeld.

I also recommend checking out
http://dahliaseclecticmind.blogspot.com/