CV: Orlando, Fl Aug 12-15. It's going to be a hot one, for sure!!
I gave my friend Drew the $100 deposit for the condo already (four condos across the street from the convention center, 20 spots, already filling up fast). Rest is due first week of June (total $150 for the WHOLE WEEK! not per night! heeeheee). I have a little time after the holidays to get my con tickets ($120). Already posted onto several forums that I'm now in the "delivery" business for CV. Taking the RV, towing the 5X8 trailer, transporting alot of props/costumes/weapons/tools/etc. Oh, AL too. And any other droid that wants to keep him company on the long four-day road trip.
This Saturday I have the FIRST Lego Colorado Championships to go to, so I've been doing some final painting. AL is still static, but he looks good. Hopefully some of these kids can give me a clue on how to hook up my remote (another heeeheee). Back to working on AL.... hopefully on Friday I can get his battery hoses, battery boxes, and the third back-dome HP on. Still no camera, so just my great typing skills to keep everyone informed.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Chapter 3, part 12
Part 12:
Glug klunked faster back in and told Peety that it was OK to put everything back again. Oh great, will I ever get some sleep, Glug? Peety reluctantly put everything back based on his blurry photos. Glug even found and fixed a couple picture frames and had some of the photos hung nicely on the wall. Peety was a little miffed about this, but soon took a little pride in his photo works. It was starting to look like home. Home. Neither of them ever had a home before. And soon Jaka would join them in their new home.
Glug found and fixed some curtains (a pretty shimmery silvery blue fabric with tiny gold Noobian crests all over it), laid out a piece of old stained red carpet at the entrance, and pieced together a couple of chairs with some old boards and more nails. While Glug was nesting in his new house, Peety was busy organizing all the tools. Most of them he had used before during the podraces, but somehow he knew Jaka wasn't a podracer. What was Jaka up to anyway? Why did he need us droids? We're not here just to look after this crumbly shop. So, what's his plan?
Jaka did have a plan, and that was not to tell too much of his plan. If he did the Imperial troops would be ontop of him in no time, probably killing him. His first priority was to rescue AL. It was his droid now, not the Empire's. He pushed the landspeeder as fast as it would go, pretending to be a podracer, hoping he wouldn't crash. Jaka was a very cautious jawa, always planning ahead. Yet even he couldn't foresee the AT-AT's landing, and now making their way toward the crash site. Jaka knew it was only a matter of time before the Empire would get their droid back, and that would be very bad for all.
Glug klunked faster back in and told Peety that it was OK to put everything back again. Oh great, will I ever get some sleep, Glug? Peety reluctantly put everything back based on his blurry photos. Glug even found and fixed a couple picture frames and had some of the photos hung nicely on the wall. Peety was a little miffed about this, but soon took a little pride in his photo works. It was starting to look like home. Home. Neither of them ever had a home before. And soon Jaka would join them in their new home.
Glug found and fixed some curtains (a pretty shimmery silvery blue fabric with tiny gold Noobian crests all over it), laid out a piece of old stained red carpet at the entrance, and pieced together a couple of chairs with some old boards and more nails. While Glug was nesting in his new house, Peety was busy organizing all the tools. Most of them he had used before during the podraces, but somehow he knew Jaka wasn't a podracer. What was Jaka up to anyway? Why did he need us droids? We're not here just to look after this crumbly shop. So, what's his plan?
Jaka did have a plan, and that was not to tell too much of his plan. If he did the Imperial troops would be ontop of him in no time, probably killing him. His first priority was to rescue AL. It was his droid now, not the Empire's. He pushed the landspeeder as fast as it would go, pretending to be a podracer, hoping he wouldn't crash. Jaka was a very cautious jawa, always planning ahead. Yet even he couldn't foresee the AT-AT's landing, and now making their way toward the crash site. Jaka knew it was only a matter of time before the Empire would get their droid back, and that would be very bad for all.
Monday, November 2, 2009
SW Concert: A Real Treat
I just can't seem to keep up with this blog, darnit! LOL
Anyway, AL is still in pieces in the back of my car. He's going back to his room this Friday if it doesn't snow again. I did get his room and most of the garage cleaned out. Still can't park my car in the garage, too much stuff!
With my very busy schedule in October, I managed to find the time and money to go to the SW in Concert. My friend Drew scored big with a private box seat that held 20 enthusiastic fans. The only problem was a very large speaker hanging from the rafters blocking the upper right corner of the screen, not bad but annoying. The laser light show, displays, Anthony Daniels' great since of humor as the narrator, and the themes surrounding each played piece made up for that one little problem. I would definitely see it again. I now have to search ebay for that awesome R2-D2 bag, a very accurate image of him made completely out of instruments. My friend Kathy bought a very cute t-shirt of Leia holding a flute like her pistol. The program guide was awesome with full color page layouts with a great centerfold. I just wasn't going to pay the horrendous price for them, but ebay might have something (at least the tote bag).
What made the concert so much fun was the R2 Central group joining us. Brad, Syrena, Moose, and Jen made the long drive out west to see it with us. After the concert the five of us went to Casa Bonita, a mexican restaurant with cliff divers, caves, waterfalls, and a really cool haunted house. Jen couldn't believe her eyes! The Mariachi band played a cool happy birthday song for Brad, Syrena and I got stuffed on sopapillas, and Moose, well, he just was in awe of the whole experience, like a little kid in a candy store. Afterwards they took me home and I got to show them the house, the overcrowded garage, and AL's room. I think that was Jen's favorite room ("wow, ooooh, aahh, cool, etc...").
The whole experience was just lovely. I wish I can go back to Omaha next week for Nebraskon, but gotta save money for CV! And if they plan CV right, we'll be hitting DragonCon either the weekend before or after CV. Two major cons on the same trip!! Can AL handle it?
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
This is an awesome picture of the light show, originally posted on the Mountain Garrison galleries. I'm sorry to say, I don't know who took it...
Go to www.mg501.com to see more great pictures.
Anyway, AL is still in pieces in the back of my car. He's going back to his room this Friday if it doesn't snow again. I did get his room and most of the garage cleaned out. Still can't park my car in the garage, too much stuff!
With my very busy schedule in October, I managed to find the time and money to go to the SW in Concert. My friend Drew scored big with a private box seat that held 20 enthusiastic fans. The only problem was a very large speaker hanging from the rafters blocking the upper right corner of the screen, not bad but annoying. The laser light show, displays, Anthony Daniels' great since of humor as the narrator, and the themes surrounding each played piece made up for that one little problem. I would definitely see it again. I now have to search ebay for that awesome R2-D2 bag, a very accurate image of him made completely out of instruments. My friend Kathy bought a very cute t-shirt of Leia holding a flute like her pistol. The program guide was awesome with full color page layouts with a great centerfold. I just wasn't going to pay the horrendous price for them, but ebay might have something (at least the tote bag).
What made the concert so much fun was the R2 Central group joining us. Brad, Syrena, Moose, and Jen made the long drive out west to see it with us. After the concert the five of us went to Casa Bonita, a mexican restaurant with cliff divers, caves, waterfalls, and a really cool haunted house. Jen couldn't believe her eyes! The Mariachi band played a cool happy birthday song for Brad, Syrena and I got stuffed on sopapillas, and Moose, well, he just was in awe of the whole experience, like a little kid in a candy store. Afterwards they took me home and I got to show them the house, the overcrowded garage, and AL's room. I think that was Jen's favorite room ("wow, ooooh, aahh, cool, etc...").
The whole experience was just lovely. I wish I can go back to Omaha next week for Nebraskon, but gotta save money for CV! And if they plan CV right, we'll be hitting DragonCon either the weekend before or after CV. Two major cons on the same trip!! Can AL handle it?
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
This is an awesome picture of the light show, originally posted on the Mountain Garrison galleries. I'm sorry to say, I don't know who took it...
Go to www.mg501.com to see more great pictures.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
So, it's been a while. Went to Bubonicon the last weekend of August, but still no camera. There was some mass confusion on where AL was suppose to go. For a few hours on Friday he ended up in the main hallway where con-goers could take pics. Since the hotel is right next to the airport, quite a few airline pilots came in through the side door where AL was standing. One pilot lamented to his co-pilot "I should replace you with him!" as he was pointing to AL. Everyone had fun with him until the "con people" (those in charge) asked me politely to remove him. I requested to keep him there in the hallway until the 501st shows up. They finally showed up about 7:00pm, hauling AL on a hotel cart at about 8:00pm to the 501st room, which was locked most of the time (great security, but lousy if you want to show off your droid).
Bubonicon was very much like Mile Hi con, a literary convention with lots of local writers and comic book artists. The theme was "zombie", and it seemed if you weren't in a zombie or steampunk or steampunked zombie costume, you weren't getting into the costume contest. Steampunk was all the rage with these guys. The Trekkies and SW fans basically stayed to themselves in their suites.
Things didn't pick up for me until the Droid Hunt Saturday afternoon. I had heard about it, but never seen one in action. I stayed with AL in the 501st con suite where the hunt was taking place and kinda helped as much as possible. Quite a few people in the hunt stopped to ask about AL and the R2BC. One 501st member asked a bunch of questions and took lots of pics. I found out he was one of those that approves costumes, so I asked him a bunch of questions. I wish I could remember his name, nice guy. Seems my jawa outfit is almost ready according to him (based on a couple lousy pictures). I also got a very strong idea from my friend Lionel to do an Imperial Officer uniform. It's not an easy costume, but one I can do. One female showed a lot of interest in building her own R2, but is leaning towards an R5. She took my card and the only R2BC brochure I had left (gotta print out some more of those), very serious about it. Some others showed interest but didn't want to spend any money. If I have just one new R2BC recruit then I did my job at a con. Seems I might have done it quite well at this con, and I didn't even have a table or was displayed at the actually con!
Met so many of the ALB 501st, all of them very nice and very excited to have AL as part of their droid hunt. I was glad to help out. If I go again it's because of them, not the con. I go to cons to hang out with those that are true scifi fans, not zombied vampirical literary types. But alas, with C5 coming up fast (next year, they say), I probably won't be able to afford it again next year. We'll see.....
Parts installed the week of Bubonicon:
shoulder horseshoes
shoulder details
foot details
step-drilled out larger holes for braided hoses (learned how to use step-drill bit, yipeee!)
drilled in holes and screwed on radar eye (so I didn't have to hot-glue it on anymore)
David Shaw's new power couplers
Wayne Orr's side vents
Ordered the second half of JEDI controller, and a "learn to solder" kit. Already got a soldering iron, now it's time to practice.
I think the booster covers were on and radar eye screwed on for Osfest, but I did realign the eye and redrilled/rescrewed on the eye. So, you see I have been working on AL, little by little. Still unpacking his room, though. Boy, dad and grandpa had lots of tools....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Bubonicon was very much like Mile Hi con, a literary convention with lots of local writers and comic book artists. The theme was "zombie", and it seemed if you weren't in a zombie or steampunk or steampunked zombie costume, you weren't getting into the costume contest. Steampunk was all the rage with these guys. The Trekkies and SW fans basically stayed to themselves in their suites.
Things didn't pick up for me until the Droid Hunt Saturday afternoon. I had heard about it, but never seen one in action. I stayed with AL in the 501st con suite where the hunt was taking place and kinda helped as much as possible. Quite a few people in the hunt stopped to ask about AL and the R2BC. One 501st member asked a bunch of questions and took lots of pics. I found out he was one of those that approves costumes, so I asked him a bunch of questions. I wish I could remember his name, nice guy. Seems my jawa outfit is almost ready according to him (based on a couple lousy pictures). I also got a very strong idea from my friend Lionel to do an Imperial Officer uniform. It's not an easy costume, but one I can do. One female showed a lot of interest in building her own R2, but is leaning towards an R5. She took my card and the only R2BC brochure I had left (gotta print out some more of those), very serious about it. Some others showed interest but didn't want to spend any money. If I have just one new R2BC recruit then I did my job at a con. Seems I might have done it quite well at this con, and I didn't even have a table or was displayed at the actually con!
Met so many of the ALB 501st, all of them very nice and very excited to have AL as part of their droid hunt. I was glad to help out. If I go again it's because of them, not the con. I go to cons to hang out with those that are true scifi fans, not zombied vampirical literary types. But alas, with C5 coming up fast (next year, they say), I probably won't be able to afford it again next year. We'll see.....
Parts installed the week of Bubonicon:
shoulder horseshoes
shoulder details
foot details
step-drilled out larger holes for braided hoses (learned how to use step-drill bit, yipeee!)
drilled in holes and screwed on radar eye (so I didn't have to hot-glue it on anymore)
David Shaw's new power couplers
Wayne Orr's side vents
Ordered the second half of JEDI controller, and a "learn to solder" kit. Already got a soldering iron, now it's time to practice.
I think the booster covers were on and radar eye screwed on for Osfest, but I did realign the eye and redrilled/rescrewed on the eye. So, you see I have been working on AL, little by little. Still unpacking his room, though. Boy, dad and grandpa had lots of tools....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Osfest 2009
I had one of the greatest times of my life this past weekend. About a dozen droids, including a T3 from Kansas City, MO were present. Patches looked great, and PD is coming along nicely (see pics on http://www.r2-cm.com/). Not one, but TWO K.I.T.T. cars were there, fully functional and talking to each other. Brad Edmonds (http://r2k2000.blogspot.com/), builder of the K.I.T.T. from seasons 1 and 2 from the original series, let me sit in his car. I could feel the power (well, almost).
Both panels on Sunday were fantastic. The first was just lining up our droids on the stage and talking about our droids, answering questions, letting the audience pick our brains, etc. Later in the day, on LC's request, I gave a 45 min presentation on R2-KT. It was in the boardroom and seemed to be quite crowded. I was pretty satisfied with the power point presentation, but would like to tweek it for future talks.
Usually I don't go to any panels except the ones I'm involved with. This year was not the case. Since it was the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing (has it been that long?) I decided to go to as many panels on the topic of space exploration as I could. Two of them was presented by a lovely woman named Bridgette who is heavily involved with the Cassini project. That's the probe studying Saturn and it's moons. Yep, they found another moon, one that looked like a lemon with a lengthwise seam. That picture woke me up!!! So, I got myself lots of Saturn moon trading cards and bookmarks, and learned lots about Saturn, my favorite planet. What girl wouldn't want a ring like that?! A third panel was on heavy model rocketry by the local model rocket builders. Long time ago, in high school, I too was in a local model rocket club. I sure miss it. Of course, I didn't launch anything like a 1/3 scale Delta rocket like these guys. These rockets were massive!!
I missed out on the Star Wars plot lines panel, mainly because I was too busy getting ready for the costume contest. Ahhh, the costume contest! Disco Padme! We even found the Disco Star Wars music to go with it! And I danced on stage! Moose later said he would never look at me in the same light again.... I sometimes crack myself up.
One of the best part of this trip was the two friends I was traveling with. Drew taught me and his wife, Krys, how to drive the RV. A lot different driving a 35 foot beast. At one point Krys decided to "talk" to the beast, and came up with a name for it, one that it liked apparently. It's now Lady Blaze (it's also a female RV apparently, and likes to blaze a trail). I like it, too. We arrived behind the hotel late Thursday evening, got Lady Blaze all set up, and went to bed early. The next morning Drew and I had all of AL's tools and parts on the table under the awning trying to put his wheels on. Friday afternoon the R2 Central group found us outside the RV door working in what has to be the most unique traveling astromech lab. I love my RV!!
For a wrap-up party we all went to Brad's house for a pool party and BBQ. I went with Moose to help unload the droids at his house, while Drew drove the RV to Brad's. After some good food, pool antics, and just great fun, Lady Blaze got back on the road home, stopping at a rest stop somewhere to get some rest before reaching home Monday evening. All three of us were wiped out, a sign of a really great con.
Unfortunately, the pivot on the mirror of my camera sensor is broken and will cost a great deal to repair, not to mention the time to get the part. As a result I didn't have my camera. You can see pics at http://www.r2-cm.com/ and http://r2k2000.blogspot.com/. I believe there are a few at http://www.r2-nu.com/ as well. Our group photog, Denny, should have a lot up soon if not already. I'll edit this post as soon as I remember his website. In the meantime, here is one I stole from one of the mentioned sites. We now have three lady builders in the R2 Central with a fourth really wanting to start soon. Now I just got to find the time to drive out to Omaha again for one of their build days, maybe one of Brad's electronic workshop.
Jen (Moose's girlfriend), me and AL, and Serena (Brad's wife)
AL's next event: October 24th and 25th, Star Wars Fan Days, Plano, TX. Gotta meet Don Bies.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Edit: OK, I found Denny's blog with a few pics: http://falcon-one-photo.blogspot.com/. It's now in AL's Friends list.
Both panels on Sunday were fantastic. The first was just lining up our droids on the stage and talking about our droids, answering questions, letting the audience pick our brains, etc. Later in the day, on LC's request, I gave a 45 min presentation on R2-KT. It was in the boardroom and seemed to be quite crowded. I was pretty satisfied with the power point presentation, but would like to tweek it for future talks.
Usually I don't go to any panels except the ones I'm involved with. This year was not the case. Since it was the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing (has it been that long?) I decided to go to as many panels on the topic of space exploration as I could. Two of them was presented by a lovely woman named Bridgette who is heavily involved with the Cassini project. That's the probe studying Saturn and it's moons. Yep, they found another moon, one that looked like a lemon with a lengthwise seam. That picture woke me up!!! So, I got myself lots of Saturn moon trading cards and bookmarks, and learned lots about Saturn, my favorite planet. What girl wouldn't want a ring like that?! A third panel was on heavy model rocketry by the local model rocket builders. Long time ago, in high school, I too was in a local model rocket club. I sure miss it. Of course, I didn't launch anything like a 1/3 scale Delta rocket like these guys. These rockets were massive!!
I missed out on the Star Wars plot lines panel, mainly because I was too busy getting ready for the costume contest. Ahhh, the costume contest! Disco Padme! We even found the Disco Star Wars music to go with it! And I danced on stage! Moose later said he would never look at me in the same light again.... I sometimes crack myself up.
One of the best part of this trip was the two friends I was traveling with. Drew taught me and his wife, Krys, how to drive the RV. A lot different driving a 35 foot beast. At one point Krys decided to "talk" to the beast, and came up with a name for it, one that it liked apparently. It's now Lady Blaze (it's also a female RV apparently, and likes to blaze a trail). I like it, too. We arrived behind the hotel late Thursday evening, got Lady Blaze all set up, and went to bed early. The next morning Drew and I had all of AL's tools and parts on the table under the awning trying to put his wheels on. Friday afternoon the R2 Central group found us outside the RV door working in what has to be the most unique traveling astromech lab. I love my RV!!
For a wrap-up party we all went to Brad's house for a pool party and BBQ. I went with Moose to help unload the droids at his house, while Drew drove the RV to Brad's. After some good food, pool antics, and just great fun, Lady Blaze got back on the road home, stopping at a rest stop somewhere to get some rest before reaching home Monday evening. All three of us were wiped out, a sign of a really great con.
Unfortunately, the pivot on the mirror of my camera sensor is broken and will cost a great deal to repair, not to mention the time to get the part. As a result I didn't have my camera. You can see pics at http://www.r2-cm.com/ and http://r2k2000.blogspot.com/. I believe there are a few at http://www.r2-nu.com/ as well. Our group photog, Denny, should have a lot up soon if not already. I'll edit this post as soon as I remember his website. In the meantime, here is one I stole from one of the mentioned sites. We now have three lady builders in the R2 Central with a fourth really wanting to start soon. Now I just got to find the time to drive out to Omaha again for one of their build days, maybe one of Brad's electronic workshop.
Jen (Moose's girlfriend), me and AL, and Serena (Brad's wife)
AL's next event: October 24th and 25th, Star Wars Fan Days, Plano, TX. Gotta meet Don Bies.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Edit: OK, I found Denny's blog with a few pics: http://falcon-one-photo.blogspot.com/. It's now in AL's Friends list.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Center Vents
Disclaimer: Camera needs professional cleaning, so NO teasing about hair/dust/etc on my photos.
I've been lagging in the blogging world as I continue to make my big move. Everything's in the house, just need lots of time to unpack. Meanwhile, I worked on my center vents. I took 80 grit sand paper to get the watermark dullness out of the Waterset vents. Then I used a medium course sand paper with my dremel to sand it down even further. A little polish paste with fine 180 grit on my dremel made them shiny! The louves had to be sanded down a bit to make them fit in the surround (more discussion on this on the astromech.net boards since I'm not the only one with a fitting problem). After getting everything fitted together, I used aluminum foil tape (found in the duct tape section) to tape everything together. You have to really look hard to see the tape, and I don't think anyone will look that closely, except other R2 builders, and they probably don't care....
Left, not sanded. Right, sanded. BIG difference.
Side view of how they go on the droid. You can really see the difference.
Bottom vent fitted and taped together. Not bad using foil tape...
Next week I'll be in Omaha for Osfest. I'm trying to make the big push to get AL walking/rolling. This weekend I'll definitely put in the R/C and hopefully I can get the Big Lots wheels to fit into the motor mounts. Wish me luck!
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
FCBD 2009
I think this sign says it all! It was a previlage to hang out with Cal and the rest of the 501st up at Time Warps Comics in Boulder, CO. Once again, AL was a HUGE success as he was the only astromech there. Cal did bring his mouse droid (we dubbed him Rover) to keep AL company. Even though it was pouring rain all day, we had so much fun, even doing a bit of socializing out of costume at the ice cream shop around the corner (just to celebrate a little).
Lots of comic books. AL and I snatched five.
Since Time Warp is kinda off street, some of the 501st went to the street to wave people to the shop. Lots of honking....
The store manager helped AL keep dry (for a few minutes anyway).
Standing guard....
After considerable time under the eaves to keep dry, taking numerous pictures with adoring fans, he finally got his free comic book, a Star Wars one of course!
He held onto that comic for dear life! He was so proud of it....
He shared it with his new friend, Rover.
"AL wants to know if you got your free comic book, honey."
"What do we do with this little thing?" "Ah, just shoot him" Poor Rover!
Everyone had a good time, even the manager.
I actually put on a helmet for the first time. Tight fit, but looks good. AL was still holding onto that darn comic book, even at the end of the day.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Chapter 3 part 11
Manny grabbed the green foam bag, Jellica straightened her dress, and the two of them disappeared quickly back up the alley in the opposite direction of the troopers. Glug may have been a slow thinker, but his eye could see and record everything. Dumb I am, but not blind! He saw the two lovers run out of sight with a bag full of green foam that Jaka had planted in the street. Glug klunked his way to Peety reporting that the green foam bag was gone. Peety was elated at the news. Good that should keep them away for a couple days, at least until Jaka gets back. Here, Glug, put this shelf back up.
The two spent the rest of the day and night nailing the shelf boards back up on the wall, arranging the tools on the shelves, and generally tidying up the place. Glug was particularly good at taking out the remainder of the garbage. Peety had a special talent of taking pictures of every little detail and refering to those pictures. Some odd thing in his processor allowed to him to photograph. Sometimes though he would put all his energy into taking the perfect picture he would fall on himself. Blurry pics would not do, so he would pick himself up again and start over, only to fall again, sometimes. Yet, when in a hurry blurry pics can sometimes reveal the whole picture. In this instance, Peety had a lot of blurry pics to work off of. Thus he was able to put the shop in the exact order it was before the troopers came.... sort of.
Satisfied with their work, Peety suggested that the two of them shut down for the evening. Glug didn't want to because it was actually morning. Peety argued that since they had been working all this time with no sleep it was technically evening. Glug argued that since the sun was up..... well, the arguments went on for awhile until Peety told Glug to shut up.
But it's my turn to argue.
Shut up Glug.
But I want to argue, this is fun.
For the last time keep absolutely silent Glug, I hear something.
Yeah, me arguing.
Then Glug heard it, too. He fell silent as a snowflake, whatever that was. A clanging banging noise, like someone hitting the sides of the buildings with a very large metal stick. Only it seemed to be in the distance. The two didn't know what to do, but their orders were not to let anyone see the stuff in the shop. Jaka was persistant that if something bad should happen the two must run and hide, leaving the shop in disarray. Thank the force Peety knew what disarray meant. So, after a long night of putting everything back in order, he started tossing everything about again. Glug klunked his way out the back door for the garbage he just threw out. His good eye, however, saw that the banging was a couple of AT-AT's making their way across the desert, searching for that droid, no doubt.
The two spent the rest of the day and night nailing the shelf boards back up on the wall, arranging the tools on the shelves, and generally tidying up the place. Glug was particularly good at taking out the remainder of the garbage. Peety had a special talent of taking pictures of every little detail and refering to those pictures. Some odd thing in his processor allowed to him to photograph. Sometimes though he would put all his energy into taking the perfect picture he would fall on himself. Blurry pics would not do, so he would pick himself up again and start over, only to fall again, sometimes. Yet, when in a hurry blurry pics can sometimes reveal the whole picture. In this instance, Peety had a lot of blurry pics to work off of. Thus he was able to put the shop in the exact order it was before the troopers came.... sort of.
Satisfied with their work, Peety suggested that the two of them shut down for the evening. Glug didn't want to because it was actually morning. Peety argued that since they had been working all this time with no sleep it was technically evening. Glug argued that since the sun was up..... well, the arguments went on for awhile until Peety told Glug to shut up.
But it's my turn to argue.
Shut up Glug.
But I want to argue, this is fun.
For the last time keep absolutely silent Glug, I hear something.
Yeah, me arguing.
Then Glug heard it, too. He fell silent as a snowflake, whatever that was. A clanging banging noise, like someone hitting the sides of the buildings with a very large metal stick. Only it seemed to be in the distance. The two didn't know what to do, but their orders were not to let anyone see the stuff in the shop. Jaka was persistant that if something bad should happen the two must run and hide, leaving the shop in disarray. Thank the force Peety knew what disarray meant. So, after a long night of putting everything back in order, he started tossing everything about again. Glug klunked his way out the back door for the garbage he just threw out. His good eye, however, saw that the banging was a couple of AT-AT's making their way across the desert, searching for that droid, no doubt.
Friday, April 10, 2009
HAPPY EASTER!
A friend of mine sent me an email advisory titled "Beware of Theft Identity on Easter". I am posting that warning here:
The kitten is a spitting image of our beloved Tribble (RIP little friend).
HAPPY EASTER, EVERYBODY!
Jawa Jaka
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Under the Category "Other"
AL is finally in his new room, even though it's not quite finished yet. He's now standing on nice foam padding, feeling oh so luxurious under his feet! Since I'm still concentrating all my effort on the house and not on poor AL, I'm filling up my blog with some very interesting tidbits. Like this one:
A pair of deer peers through a drive-in liquor store window Friday, March 27, 2009 in Medicine Bow, Wyo. (AP Photo/Laramie Boomerang, Alison Simpson)
Must be a good place! Anyone want to meet me there? LOL
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Thursday, March 19, 2009
I'M ON TV!!
This is totally unrelated to AL or SW or anything scifi. It started when JDon (my roomate) came home and said he had something important to tell me, after he changes. So, while waiting for him to change, I dashed downstairs to check the news weather only to see a short story on free burgers and fries at TrailDust restaurant. I ran back upstairs to tell him. He laughed and said that was the important thing he had to tell me!! We both decided to go.
We got there at 10:30am with another friend. The three of us sat around at the beginning of the line with not too many people behind us, maybe 20 all together. At 10:45am the line was at the end of the building. By the time the doors opened at 11:00am the line was all the way around the building! We were lucky to get in as there was a wait for seats at 11:15am. 600 burgers were served within the first half hour.
Greg Nieto of channel 2 news sat beside us interviewing an older gentleman. He and JDon struck up a good conversation after the interview while Greg and his cameraman ate thier burgers. A short time later a very pregnant reporter from channel 9 came up to me, asked my name, and said that in a minute she was going to interview me! Here's a link to the interview...
http://www.9news.com/video/default.aspx?maven_playerId=fullpageplayer&maven_referralPlaylistId=dc3d7ce19e95532068a3c43d2f47206ae2407790&maven_referralObject=1064842025
I'm also embedding it on the left hand side. Now you know what I look like, a MESS! No time to make myself beautiful! Gosh my voice is weird, to me anyway....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
We got there at 10:30am with another friend. The three of us sat around at the beginning of the line with not too many people behind us, maybe 20 all together. At 10:45am the line was at the end of the building. By the time the doors opened at 11:00am the line was all the way around the building! We were lucky to get in as there was a wait for seats at 11:15am. 600 burgers were served within the first half hour.
Greg Nieto of channel 2 news sat beside us interviewing an older gentleman. He and JDon struck up a good conversation after the interview while Greg and his cameraman ate thier burgers. A short time later a very pregnant reporter from channel 9 came up to me, asked my name, and said that in a minute she was going to interview me! Here's a link to the interview...
http://www.9news.com/video/default.aspx?maven_playerId=fullpageplayer&maven_referralPlaylistId=dc3d7ce19e95532068a3c43d2f47206ae2407790&maven_referralObject=1064842025
I'm also embedding it on the left hand side. Now you know what I look like, a MESS! No time to make myself beautiful! Gosh my voice is weird, to me anyway....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Monday, March 16, 2009
St Patrick's Day Parade 2009
This past Saturday I had the previlege of marching with the 501st Mountain Garrison, the Rocky Mountain Fan Force, and the X-Wing sponsored by Wings Over the Rockies. I bet you can't guess - OK, maybe you can. I was the tall Jawa. A little Jawa marched along side me and even practiced her "utinis" for the crowd. I can't tell you how much deep-down inner pride and joy I felt when the crowds (about 100,000 lining a couple miles) cheered for our very large group. When you see children's faces light up as you "high-five" them while marching down Main Street, well, my smile was just as big under all that black mask I wore. This is what all the Star Wars groups are about. Putting smiles on faces of children of all ages. My tears of joy are swelling up as I type this.
Since I was marching, I couldn't really take photos. These few here are my favorites from the http://www.mg501.com/ and the www.rmff.net websites photo galleries. I didn't record the parade on my VCR because I really didn't know which channel or time it was on. After the parade I kinda hit the bars for some green beer and fish/chips. Got home late wishing I hadn't drank so much, but glad I did. I needed an excuse to party....
Lends a new meaning to crowd control (my favorite pic so far).
Lord Vader lording over our parade float. Many pics of him on the news websites.
Of course, Artoo is the real hero of the parade. Sitting pretty atop the X-Wing.
The newly formed "KILT" patrol. They were in the back with me pumping up the crowd and making sure we kept pace with the rest of the parade (i.e. not getting run over by the X-Wing which was right behind us).
The RMFF group shot. Best pic of my jawa so far. Had to turn off the eyes to save battery life after this pic.
My little Jawa apprentice. Boy, could she yell "UTINI". She was great at working the crowds.
The GROUP shot. 501st MG, RMFF, WOTR X-Wing, and a couple of stragglers, like me.
This is what it was all about, and why I continue to do events with the SW fan clubs. I LOVE to see the kids smile. (and yes, he's wearing a black kilt).
Thanks to all our photographers. You can see more at www.mg501.com and www.rmff.net. And you can see me again next year.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Sunday, March 15, 2009
B9Greg makes a promotional Video!
My friend Greg Logue of th B9'ers put together this video to promote Starfest. I think it's too good to pass up, so check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6b4fZ2EC_qw or see it on the Starfest website. Great job, Greg!!!
On another note, I have a previous scheduled event the same weekend as Starfest (an RV rally already paid for). This will be my first year in the last six I'll miss it (I've been to the last five). But the R2-KT Make-A-Wish Scifi Auction will go on as planned, along with the debut of my goofy commercial "Jawa Jaka's Junkyard", during the Order of the Grey panel. So, in the best Arnold voice, "I'll be back!" Next year, definitely.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
On another note, I have a previous scheduled event the same weekend as Starfest (an RV rally already paid for). This will be my first year in the last six I'll miss it (I've been to the last five). But the R2-KT Make-A-Wish Scifi Auction will go on as planned, along with the debut of my goofy commercial "Jawa Jaka's Junkyard", during the Order of the Grey panel. So, in the best Arnold voice, "I'll be back!" Next year, definitely.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Chapter 3 part 10
Jaka was sure Manny would follow, so he put his plan to work. He instructed the hired prostitute (he and Jellica were friends by now) to pay a visit at a certain time to Manny's opulent apartment with the message that she saw something wierd in the shop's alley. She couldn't tell Manny exactly what it was she saw, but it was wierd. Manny's suspicions came forward, and he grabbed Jellica's arm as he ran out the door.
Show me where you saw it. Try to remember what you saw. Was it the jawa?
Let go of me, or I won't tell you anything, you beast. (as she struggled)
You're going to tell me if I have to beat out of you! Was it the jawa?!
Oh, baby, please. I'll take you to where I saw it. Then we can be good again. OK?
He let go of her, she held his hand and led him to the end of the shop alley. They stood looking down the dirt street for a minute or two before he started yelling at her again.
Look, I'm trying to remember! Oh, there. That's what I saw! And she pointed towards a funny looking garbage bag full of green foam stuff.
That's it? That's what you saw? Garbage?
Isn't that insulation used by Imperial ships?
Well, I guess we can grab it for Jojo to look at. She'll know.
Several stormtroopers marched down the alley. They were behind Manny, and Jellica had to act fast. Grabbing his hands, Jellica led him down a dark side alley, just far enough to where they were hidden from view, yet she could still see down the shop alley. She kissed him while the troopers made their way through the alley. He never noticed the troopers. It was all part of Jaka's plan. Keep him occupied near the shop while Jaka retreated back into the desert. And Jellica was doing a good job of it.
Show me where you saw it. Try to remember what you saw. Was it the jawa?
Let go of me, or I won't tell you anything, you beast. (as she struggled)
You're going to tell me if I have to beat out of you! Was it the jawa?!
Oh, baby, please. I'll take you to where I saw it. Then we can be good again. OK?
He let go of her, she held his hand and led him to the end of the shop alley. They stood looking down the dirt street for a minute or two before he started yelling at her again.
Look, I'm trying to remember! Oh, there. That's what I saw! And she pointed towards a funny looking garbage bag full of green foam stuff.
That's it? That's what you saw? Garbage?
Isn't that insulation used by Imperial ships?
Well, I guess we can grab it for Jojo to look at. She'll know.
Several stormtroopers marched down the alley. They were behind Manny, and Jellica had to act fast. Grabbing his hands, Jellica led him down a dark side alley, just far enough to where they were hidden from view, yet she could still see down the shop alley. She kissed him while the troopers made their way through the alley. He never noticed the troopers. It was all part of Jaka's plan. Keep him occupied near the shop while Jaka retreated back into the desert. And Jellica was doing a good job of it.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
What's wrong with this pic?
One more pic and story about Fanboys. I was up until 3:00am Friday morning trying to put AL together. The arms were the last thing to go on before putting the skins over it. I usually put at least one arm out so the skins will hold in place. Friday night while setting him up I noticed I couldn't do this. See if you can figure out why (I knew immediately and did the "could've had a V-8" slap on the forehead!). I promise to correct it all later, as soon as I get another coat of paint on the arms.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Fanboys Pictures
Here are the pics from Fanboys Denver Premier. My friend Azman couldn't make it due to a nasty flubug, so AL graciously stepped in. I hope you're feeling better, Azman!
First and foremost, I'd like to thank the management of the AMC Westminster theater that put up with our antics. They, too, had a lot of fun.
Members of the 501st Mountain Garrison, MileHi Squad. I'm absolutely going to make the snowtrooper outfit, get some white ski boots, and tear down Peak 10 on skis in my outfit!! These two snowtroopers actually got their picture taken in the blizzard occuring at the same time outside the theater...
Not much crowds (snow scared them away?) but those few there had to say hi to AL.
OK, AL is also an armrest apparently. LOL Holding up our local rebel pilot.
At least the Jedi gently rested her hand on AL. I think they were telepathically communicating through the hand ("talk to the hand") (OK, you can say boo now.)
This is what Fanboys was all about. The sweatshirt says it all!
First and foremost, I'd like to thank the management of the AMC Westminster theater that put up with our antics. They, too, had a lot of fun.
Members of the 501st Mountain Garrison, MileHi Squad. I'm absolutely going to make the snowtrooper outfit, get some white ski boots, and tear down Peak 10 on skis in my outfit!! These two snowtroopers actually got their picture taken in the blizzard occuring at the same time outside the theater...
Not much crowds (snow scared them away?) but those few there had to say hi to AL.
OK, AL is also an armrest apparently. LOL Holding up our local rebel pilot.
At least the Jedi gently rested her hand on AL. I think they were telepathically communicating through the hand ("talk to the hand") (OK, you can say boo now.)
This is what Fanboys was all about. The sweatshirt says it all!
Drinking through a straw through the facemask under a helmet...
Even AL got into the "nerdy" act. Can someone please make him a bucket that'll fit him? LOL
All in all, we all had a great time.
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Monday, February 23, 2009
Fanboys Opening
After asking a bunch of people if they knew about Fanboys opening in Denver, I finally called the 501 local sqad leader on Wed. He didn't know for sure at that time, but was working on a special gathering on Fri night at one of the AMC theaters in the area. So, just to be safe, I worked on AL somewhat Wed night and all of Thur night (getting about 4 hours sleep) putting his utility arms back on and some other smaller parts, like pocket vents and side panels. I also taped all the skin panels back on. The legs got the booster covers and details attached, middle foot details screwed on, and some other odds and ends that I can't remember off hand.
And while I was in the middle of this building blizzard, still no call or commitment on the event. Until Friday morning! Azman had become ill and couldn't make it, so it was up to me and AL for all the photo ops. Boy, were there a lot of cell phones out taking his pic. Everyone had fun with him, and the best part, everyone respected him by not touching or touching very gently. One kid said he was delicate because he was special. "Pet him gently, he's not feeling well" was another kid remark. It's kinda nice having the kids monitor and protecting AL for a change.
I counted nine 501st members in costume, and me and AL. Not bad for a very, very short notice event. I suppose more people would have made it except it was snowing and nobody really knew where it was! All in all, it was a great event with lots of fun. The two snowtroopers even went outside in the snow to take pics. Imagine, snowtroopers in the snow! They should submit it to Bantha Tracks! We had so much fun, and everyone was soooo grateful to have AL there, I think I'll keep in contact with this group.
As for the film, well, what can I say. It's a moronic tale of young virgin men on a road trip. Need I say more!? Let's face it, it did deserve it's D-/one star rating. However, every Star Wars fan should see this at least once. It's all about the van, man! And if you do see it (which you should anyway) count how many SW/Star Trek celebs are in this film! I'm sure I missed a couple (darn, now I've gotta see it again!).
I'll post pics as soon as I upload them. Bottom line, we all had great fun! (and go see the movie!)
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
And while I was in the middle of this building blizzard, still no call or commitment on the event. Until Friday morning! Azman had become ill and couldn't make it, so it was up to me and AL for all the photo ops. Boy, were there a lot of cell phones out taking his pic. Everyone had fun with him, and the best part, everyone respected him by not touching or touching very gently. One kid said he was delicate because he was special. "Pet him gently, he's not feeling well" was another kid remark. It's kinda nice having the kids monitor and protecting AL for a change.
I counted nine 501st members in costume, and me and AL. Not bad for a very, very short notice event. I suppose more people would have made it except it was snowing and nobody really knew where it was! All in all, it was a great event with lots of fun. The two snowtroopers even went outside in the snow to take pics. Imagine, snowtroopers in the snow! They should submit it to Bantha Tracks! We had so much fun, and everyone was soooo grateful to have AL there, I think I'll keep in contact with this group.
As for the film, well, what can I say. It's a moronic tale of young virgin men on a road trip. Need I say more!? Let's face it, it did deserve it's D-/one star rating. However, every Star Wars fan should see this at least once. It's all about the van, man! And if you do see it (which you should anyway) count how many SW/Star Trek celebs are in this film! I'm sure I missed a couple (darn, now I've gotta see it again!).
I'll post pics as soon as I upload them. Bottom line, we all had great fun! (and go see the movie!)
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Well, once again not much done on AL. I did, however, end up at Home Depot for some carriage bolts for the dome bumps. I've got a lot of sanding to do on the top of them since there are three letters stamped on the top. It doesn't look like these bolts are rounded enough on the top but I'm determined to make it work somehow.
The booster covers and pocket vents came in this week. I also paid Wayne for the side vents. Sometime this month (we hope) JAG (I think) will be offering the aluminum horseshoes. I've got to save money for that. At this point I'm spending only on parts I need, not want (like the COM-8 frame, a truly magnificent anodized beauty!). I might splurge later for the rear door, but I'm going to try to figure out how to make one myself. Seems simple, a couple curved runners, some thin pipe, and a couple hinges. Of course, being a jawa, I always turn simple into a major undertaking!! LOL We'll see....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
The booster covers and pocket vents came in this week. I also paid Wayne for the side vents. Sometime this month (we hope) JAG (I think) will be offering the aluminum horseshoes. I've got to save money for that. At this point I'm spending only on parts I need, not want (like the COM-8 frame, a truly magnificent anodized beauty!). I might splurge later for the rear door, but I'm going to try to figure out how to make one myself. Seems simple, a couple curved runners, some thin pipe, and a couple hinges. Of course, being a jawa, I always turn simple into a major undertaking!! LOL We'll see....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
Monday, February 2, 2009
New blog for my house project!
I've got a new blog for my new (old) house project at http://houseofjaka.blogspot.com. I've also added this into my "Visit these" link list. It's mostly about how I'm transforming an old house into my own personal haven. You'll find pictures of the house there (as soon as I post them) and my house projects updates. And yes, as promised, AL will have his very own bedroom - er, astromech lab....
Also, if anyone is following this blog, there is now a new feature called "Followers". I've added it to my side bar as "Who's Looking?" so that if you want to be a "follower" you can just click the link and you're automatically added. I don't know how I'll be using this feature, but I've got one follower already!
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
And don't forget to visit my other blog.
Also, if anyone is following this blog, there is now a new feature called "Followers". I've added it to my side bar as "Who's Looking?" so that if you want to be a "follower" you can just click the link and you're automatically added. I don't know how I'll be using this feature, but I've got one follower already!
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
And don't forget to visit my other blog.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
It's been awhile and nothing done on AL since October, except buying a few parts like booster covers, slip rings, side plates, side vents (and that's what I can remember). I did get the motors in the feet, but having trouble with the wheels. Got some 4" swivel wheels from Harbor Freight, can't wait to try 'em out.
My biggest "AL" purchase: his own astromech lab. Yep, I bought a HOUSE!!! After 3 years of forclosure and working super hard on my credit rating, I was able to purchase another forclosed house with a VA loan through Wells Fargo. It has a very large living room, big kitchen, four bedrooms, 2 baths (OK, one bath and one shower), nice breakfast area, oversized 2 car garage, and did I mention the astromech lab? It's in the basement as an unfinished bedroom, right next to the finished bedroom (and the one shower). Speaking of basement, aformentioned guest room and bath, laundry room, and a HUGE open area with a fireplace. The fireplace area will be my den/living area and the other space will be my home theatre (to watch all those SW movies) and built in bar with sink (if the plumbers can put a water line in). And new carpets and paint to make it my own.
Lots of backyard for the cats and AL to play in, too. I'm planning to make a lot of winding sidewalks in the yard to test AL, along with the outdoor patio. I hate mowing lawns, so I'm trying to design it with minimal yard work. Definitely a tough shed for more storage (lawn mower, I guess), a BBQ queen's grill and work space, and maybe a small hot tub (later, after I've fixed everything, like a new water heater and some plumbing leaks that aren't that bad).
Let the house repairs, uh, updates begin....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
(Maybe a new "house" blog? I definitely see one in the near future. Gotta win that Better Homes and Gardens remodeling/decorating contest!)
My biggest "AL" purchase: his own astromech lab. Yep, I bought a HOUSE!!! After 3 years of forclosure and working super hard on my credit rating, I was able to purchase another forclosed house with a VA loan through Wells Fargo. It has a very large living room, big kitchen, four bedrooms, 2 baths (OK, one bath and one shower), nice breakfast area, oversized 2 car garage, and did I mention the astromech lab? It's in the basement as an unfinished bedroom, right next to the finished bedroom (and the one shower). Speaking of basement, aformentioned guest room and bath, laundry room, and a HUGE open area with a fireplace. The fireplace area will be my den/living area and the other space will be my home theatre (to watch all those SW movies) and built in bar with sink (if the plumbers can put a water line in). And new carpets and paint to make it my own.
Lots of backyard for the cats and AL to play in, too. I'm planning to make a lot of winding sidewalks in the yard to test AL, along with the outdoor patio. I hate mowing lawns, so I'm trying to design it with minimal yard work. Definitely a tough shed for more storage (lawn mower, I guess), a BBQ queen's grill and work space, and maybe a small hot tub (later, after I've fixed everything, like a new water heater and some plumbing leaks that aren't that bad).
Let the house repairs, uh, updates begin....
Until next time,
Jawa Jaka
(Maybe a new "house" blog? I definitely see one in the near future. Gotta win that Better Homes and Gardens remodeling/decorating contest!)
Monday, January 5, 2009
Chapter 3 part 9
Several stormtroopers marched down the alley, knocking down doors, inspecting all contents of the dilapitated neighborhood. They came to the shop, tearing it apart inch by inch. Just some old boards and nails, an old hammer, and lots of very large bags full of garbage. TK1492 was dismayed at having to go through all that garbage just to find clues of a lost Imperial droid, but orders were orders. Find that droid, it might have some important information about the rebels. His partner, TK1812, was just as grossed out.
Nothing here, let's move on.
We've only gone through three bags. Shouldn't we go through the rest?
You want to go through them all, go ahead. I tell you, it's just garbage.
Orders. Gotta search everything.
I don't think the orders meant all 200 bags of garbage. Besides, you're starting to really stink.
Yeah, so are you. OK, next shack then.
As I said, let's move on.
And they left, meeting the other four troopers in the middle of the street, contemplating their next move. After some discussion and map reading, all six marched back up the street and disappeared. Glug and Peety removed their bags and stood in the middle of the shack dripping with garbage. A few minutes went by to make sure no other troopers were in the area, then Glug made his rounds spying on Manny, who was still spying on the shop. This time Manny had a friend with him, the long-legged woman who kept him totally preocuppied to where he didn't even notice the troopers. Or Glug for that matter.
Glug went back inside to find Peety taking out all the tools from the remaining 200 garbage bags. It was Peety's idea to hide everything, including themselves, in all that garbage. Glug didn't approve of the plan, but being that he had no ideas of his own, went along with it. Sometimes though Glug could come up with something brilliant to say, like, I'm glad we don't have noses like those troopers!
Nothing here, let's move on.
We've only gone through three bags. Shouldn't we go through the rest?
You want to go through them all, go ahead. I tell you, it's just garbage.
Orders. Gotta search everything.
I don't think the orders meant all 200 bags of garbage. Besides, you're starting to really stink.
Yeah, so are you. OK, next shack then.
As I said, let's move on.
And they left, meeting the other four troopers in the middle of the street, contemplating their next move. After some discussion and map reading, all six marched back up the street and disappeared. Glug and Peety removed their bags and stood in the middle of the shack dripping with garbage. A few minutes went by to make sure no other troopers were in the area, then Glug made his rounds spying on Manny, who was still spying on the shop. This time Manny had a friend with him, the long-legged woman who kept him totally preocuppied to where he didn't even notice the troopers. Or Glug for that matter.
Glug went back inside to find Peety taking out all the tools from the remaining 200 garbage bags. It was Peety's idea to hide everything, including themselves, in all that garbage. Glug didn't approve of the plan, but being that he had no ideas of his own, went along with it. Sometimes though Glug could come up with something brilliant to say, like, I'm glad we don't have noses like those troopers!
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