Am I living to my full potential?

Looking to waste some time on the internet? Take this quiz, and you're off to a good start.

I wasted time making it, so you may as well waste time taking it.

Am I living to my full potential?

Your idea of a wonderful day is...
A. Getting out of the house/apartment and being active.
B. Cleaning the house/apartment from top to bottom.
C. Having some quiet time to catch up on your reading.
D. Sitting on the couch eating carbs and watching TV.
E. Spending time on the Internet to the point that your vision blurs.

You...
A. Bicycle to work every day.
B. Can run a 10K without stopping.
C. Walk for 30 minutes a day.
D. Can get off your couch on the 2nd or 3rd attempt.
E. Are still in bed.

For dinner, you typically eat...
A. A balanced meal, cooked at home.
B. A balanced meal, at a nice restaurant.
C. Whatever is handy that you can throw together at home.
D. At a fast-food place.
E. Cheetos.

When you step on a scale, you...
A. Don’t own a scale. You are in great shape.
B. Are happy.
C. Consider changing your eating/exercise habits if you have put on weight.
D. Cry.
E. Can’t see it.

Friends have told you...
A. “You are a wonderful person, and a great friend.”
B. “We should get together more often.”
C. "I'll call you sometime."
D. “Wow, you’ve changed.”
E. “This is an intervention.”

Your personal library is...
A. A wide variety of fiction and non-fiction covering many subjects an genres.
B. A few books that are keepers. The others you’ve read have been donated to a public library.
C. Mostly fashion and sports magazines.
D. In the bathroom
E. "TV Guide"

You are hiking and become lost in the woods without a cell phone. Night is falling. You...
A. Build a shelter, find fresh water, and use the rising sun to determine which direction to head in the morning.
B. Panic a little, find a sheltered spot,  and hope someone will find you in the morning.
C. Remember your dad telling you what to do in a situation like this. What was it again?
D. Wander aimlessly.
E. Are quickly on your way to becoming wolf poop.

The highest level of education you have received is...
A. A Doctorate.
B. A Masters degree.
C. A Bachelors degree.
D. A High School diploma.
E. Street Smrts

Your body is...
A. A temple.
B. In great shape.
C. Better than most.
D. In need of some work.
E. A warning to others.

In the last election, you...
A. Studied the candidates and issues with an open mind and voted.
B. Voted along party lines no matter the candidate or issue.
C. Didn’t decide how to vote until you were in the voting booth
D. Voted for the candidate and issues your friends told you to.
C. Didn’t vote. Yelled at you TV.

When you see a problem, you...
A. Bring a solution.
B. Get others together to form a problem-solving committee.
C. Whine and complain, but, don’t do anything else.
D. Don’t do anything. It’s someone else’s problem.
E. Are looking in a mirror

What are you doing right now?
A. Spending time with your family and/or friends.
B. Reading a good book.
C. Watching TV.
D. Reading "US" magazine.
E. Taking a quiz on a blog.

You're done! See, that was easy, or was it?

How to score:  

Add up the corresponding points based on each of your answers. A=5 points, B=4 points, C=3 points, D=2 points, and E=1 point

Results!

49-60: You're one smart cookie. In fact, you probably figured out early on that you could answer all A's without even reading the answers and get a high score.

37-48: You work a little harder than most, and for that you are rewarded with a slightly above-average score in an online quiz.

25-36: It's not too late to change. With a little effort, you could (probably) be above average. Or, you could just keep going the way you are. Bet I already know which one you'll choose!

13-24: With a little effort, you could... oh, who am I kidding? 

0-12: Turns out your parole officer was right. Guess you owe him a dollar. Remember, cigarettes can be used like money!

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Favorite Movie Remakes

Thanks to Yano for the topic.

It was actually difficult to come up with 10 favorite remakes. I usually avoid them because the term “remake” is usually identified with “not as good as the original.” There have been far more bad remakes than good ones. Often, it seems as though the people producing the remake, never watched or identified with the original, so the new version ends up disappointing the fans of the original.

Perhaps that’s why I don’t know if my list counts as “remakes” so much, as updates, or reboots. I prefer this concept rather than a straight “remake,” as opportunities arise to go beyond the original vision and make something better, not just newer.

Batman Begins (2005) – Finally! Batman done right. Batman was always a serious character. The slew of Batman movies from the 80’s and 90’s were more closely related to the 60’s TV show (which I also like, but, for it’s campy self, not a true version of the Batman) than the comics. The Dark Knight was even better. I hope they take the next movie as seriously.

Star Trek (2009) – Being a Trekker (Trekkie back then) since the early 70’s, I was excited when I heard they were producing a new TV series called Star Trek: The Next Generation. At first, I wanted to like it more than I did. The first season was weak, but, as the series progressed, the story lines and characters got better. Sorry Wil Weaton, I may be a fan of @wilw, but I wanted Wesley Crusher to suffer a fatal transporter accident (with Dr. Pulaski as a bonus). The next batch of Trek shows all fell short in my opinion. Enterprise being the worst. The feature films featuring the original series, and TNG, casts were good, but, as they progressed, they seemed to be less and less appealing.  My favorite original cast movie is Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home ("Where do you keep your Nuclear Wessles"). Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn is second - not that you asked. Favorite TNG movie: Star Trek: First Contact. That brings us to Star Trek (2009). Originally slated to be released for the holiday’s in 2008, Paramount execs thought the movie was strong enough to be a summer release, and moved the date to May 8, 2009. I was nervous, having been burned by getting over-excited about Trek movies before. My fears were laid to rest after the 12-minute opening sequence. After seeing the movie 4 times (I said I was a Trekker!), the opening still gets me all verklempt (if you haven’t seen it – SPOILER ALERT – the opening sequence is the birth of James T. Kirk, and the death of his father, who saves 800 lives, including his son’s). I consider this movie the best Trek movie to date. Let’s hope they make the next one, at least, as good.

The Mummy (1999) – I still love this modernized (it takes place in 1923) version of the story. The mummy is not some guy in 10 pounds of gauze, slowly creeping along seeking victims. In fact, the original mummy was so slow that, even as a child, I wondered how he could possibly catch anyone! This version of the story has the Mummy coming back from the dead and becoming more rejuvenated with each victim he claims. The dialog is sharp and funny. Some of the special effect now seem dated, but, it doesn't matter, because it is the story and characters that makes this movie fun.

Get Smart (2008) – I love the TV show (would you believe I have the entire series on DVD), and was nervous about the movie version. After all, there were other movie versions that fell far short of the original series. While I don’t think I will ever love it, like I do the series, the movie was very good. The characters were updated, yet true to their original incarnations. I look forward to a sequel.

King Kong (2005) – The Peter Jackson version, not the laughable Jeff Bridges version (Heck, it may have well starred Todd Bridges!). In Peter Jackson’s beautifully rendered version, Kong comes to life like never before. His facial expressions and movements convey a range of emotions that stop-motion photography or monkey suits (actual monkey suits, not tuxedos!) never could. It is, at heart, a love story. The scene where Kong protects Anne from three T-Rex's is fantastic!

Little Shop of Horrors (1986) – Funny, sweet, a great soundtrack, and an awesome cast. I cannot think of how it could have been better.

A Christmas Carol (1999) – First off, I may be slightly influenced by the fact that Captain Jean Luc Picard Patrick Stewart plays Scrooge. However, it is a wonderful retelling of the Dicken’s classic. A must for every Christmas season (along with A Christmas Story).

The Magnificent Seven (1960) – Oh, sure, some (OK, most) of the acting was pretty bad, but this remake of The Seven Samurai is still one of my favorite westerns. Don’t take it too seriously and just enjoy the ride. Steve McQueen doesn’t speak much, but is steals just about every scene he is in.

Casino Royale (2006) – This reboot of the (very, very) tired James Bond franchise is still my favorite Bond movie. I was hopeful from the start of the movie. The 60’s “girlie-show” opening credits were gone (unfortunately, they returned in Quantum of Solace). Bond wasn’t glib. No ridiculous gadgets (invisible car, etc.) He wasn’t bedding every woman he ran into (I often thought that the “old” Bonds could have saved the world in half the time if James could just keep it in his pants). He was dedicated to his job with an unwavering commitment. Not afraid to get beaten or bruised, he served Queen and country. He was what, I felt, James Bond should have always been.

Spider-Man (2002) – Remember the 1978 TV show "The Amazing Spider-Man?" There was nothing amazing about it. From the poor writing and acting to the ridiculous, ill-fitting Spidy suit. In 2002, Director Sam Raimi treated us to the best Spider-Man to date. The story and characters were true to their comic book origins. The writing, overall design and special effects were top notch. Still the best Spider-Man.


Now, for fun, some (obviously, not all) of the worst:

King Kong (1976) – Ah, the 70's. I laugh every time I catch parts of it on TV. It is so bad.

Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) – Surprised this made the list, what with me being a Trekker and all? It bombed on December 7, 1979. It was as though whoever wrote it had never seen Star Trek. I was at the height of my Trekkieness, and I was watching it, thinking to myself "WTF?"  If you have problems falling asleep, watch it. Problem Solved.

The Incredible Hulk (2008) – Knowing 2003's Hulk movie sucked, they decided to make another one. Not a better one, just another one. Let’s hope this is the last time the Hulk has his own movie. "Hulk not a smash!"

Robin Hood (1991) – I laughed, I cried (because I paid to see it), but, I mostly laughed. Among other things, it featured Kevin Costner and his case of the disappearing British accent. Errol Flynn is still the best Robin Hood.

Speed Racer (2008) – Die-hard fans of the TV show where disappointed, and it’s no wonder, this was another movie where you ask yourself “did the writers even watch the original show?” This movie couldn’t make up it’s mind what it wanted to be. If it’s a kids movie, why do we see Spritle flip-off the bad guy?. If it’s for young adults, why were there so many childish (think: Spritle and Chim-Chim) scenes? For crying out loud, Speed was driving the Mach 6. What, the Mach 5 wasn’t good enough for him?

Around the World in 80 Days (2004) – OK, I’ll admit that I did not see it – and I like Jackie Chan! I have seen almost all his movies. So why didn’t I see this one? Usually, they put the good bits in the commercials, and the commercials stunk! I wasn't going to pay to see the rest of the movie!

I know there are a lot more, are there any you would have added to either list?

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Things You Want But Can't Afford

Somehow, it seems appropriate that I bring Blogenstein back from the dead. For how long, or how often, is anyone's guess.

Thanks to Yano for the topic. and Florinda for sending it to me.

On to the topic at hand. Let's see, money:
1. can't buy happiness
2. can't buy me love (or so Lennon and McCartney say)
3. is the root of all evil (but, can do a lot of good)

Honestly, most of what I want is not that expensive, but still out of my reach. So for the list, I am going with some of the more high-priced items. Putting food, clothing, and gas on the list just seems boring.

In no particular order:

A 4-bedroom house with enough room for a studio. Oh, and a yard for the dog. The kids can use it too.

Matched pair of brilliant nickel-plated, Expert "American" engraved 1873 Colt Single Action Army Revolvers with faux ivory grips with my personal logo inset in white gold.

Star Midnight Warrior I miss my motorcycle. If I could get another, this would be it (well, as of now).

Bugatti Veyron (Is $1,500,000.00 too much for the most amazing car ever built?)

A 2-week trip to Italy and France (Maybe Greece, since I will be in the neighborhood!) The art! The food!

The time (and money) to travel around the US. So much to see.

A guest spot on Burn Notice where I play Bruce Campbell's ne'er-do-well brother (People say we look alike. Of course, by "people," I mean "me looking in the mirror after way too much cough syrup"). Actually, if I couldn't get that, I would like to do John Henson's job for an episode of Wipeout! OK, technically, you can't buy these (or, can you...), but it would be fun!

Harrison Ford signature hero “Indiana Jones” bullwhip from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade or, the exact same whip made by the same people who made them for Indy, but new.

"The Four Seasons 1896" Art Print by Alphonse Mucha - The complete set of 4. My favorite artist. He is the reason I love Art Nouveau.

Being a Trekker (a Trekkie from the 70's) how could I not want one of these?

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Songs You Hate

Thanks to Yano for the topic.

Fish Heads by Barnes & Barnes. Easily the song I hate the most.
I Feel Love by Donna Summer. Yes, and I feel by lunch coming up.
Da Ya Think I'm Sexy by Rod Stewart. No, no, and, GOOD LORD, NO!
Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus. He broke my ears! My Achy Breaky ears!
Convoy by C.W. McCall. Does it suck? That's a big 10-4 good buddy!
Seasons in the Sun by Terry Jack. They had joy. They had fun. I did not.
Who Let the Dogs Out? by Baha Men. Forget the dogs, who let these guys record this mess?
We Built This City by Starship. More like "We Wrote This Shitty"
(You're) Having My Baby by Paul Anka. What a lovely way to sing something so lousy...
Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds by William Shatner. A little bit of Trekkie died in me the day I heard this. Of course, that didn't stop me from buying a copy of "The Transformed Man."

(Dis)honorable mentions: 
Muskrat Love by The Captain and Tenille.
Centerfold by The J. Giles Band.
Revolution No. 9 by (It so hurts me to say this) The Beatles.
Don't Give Up On Us Baby by David Soul.
Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman? by Bryan Adams.
Billy, Don't Be a Hero by Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods.
You Light Up My Life by Debbie Boone.
Mr. Roboto by Styx.
Music to Watch Space Girls By by Leonard Nimoy. Did he not hear Shatner's album?
Puppy Love by Donny Osmond. 

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Favorite Children's Movies

I prefer movies that do not pander or are simply product placement. I prefer a good story over fluff.

I love old Disney animation (Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Cinderella, etc.), but the stories were too girl-in-trouble-waits-for-man-to-come-solve-her-problem oriented. I grew up loving these movies, (and I still believe that when it comes to hand-drawn animation, you can’t beat early Disney), but time has given us better stories and characters.

What is a child? Instead of trying to profile and age (besides, some parents let their toddlers see PG or PG-13 movies), I am going to break it down by ratings. I am only doing G and PG as I feel PG-13 is no longer the realm of “children’s Movie.”

Rated G

Mulan 
 

Toy Story 

Finding Nemo 

Wall•E 

Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit 

The Great Race (Unrated, so I will call it a "G") 

Lady and the Tramp   

A Christmas Story

The Black Stallion 

It's a Mad Mad Mad World 


Rated PG

The Incredibles 

Madagascar 

Shrek 

Ice Age 

Babe 

Lilo & Stitch 

The Princess Bride

Who Framed Roger Rabbit 

The Adventures of Robin Hood (Unrated, so I will call it a "PG")

Hatari (Unrated, so I will also call this one "PG")

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Favorite Articles of Clothing You Own

First off, I’m a dude. I bring this up because being a dude is a disadvantage when it comes to buying clothes. The women’s footwear department at Nordstrom is larger than most department store Men’s sections (excluding suits).

Oh sure, If all I wanted to wear was (GAG!) Dockers and Polo shirts, I would be in heaven, but I don’t, so I’m not.

That being said, I don’t think I can come up with ten.

Easily, my favorite piece of clothing is my “Ridin’ with the King” shirt I bought at Lansky Brothers in Memphis. The shirt is beautifully embroidered. Lansky Brothers is the nicest men’s clothing store I have ever been in. It’s not big, but it is packed with the kind of clothes I would wear. If I win the Lottery (wish me luck!), I am flying back there for a shopping (and dining) spree. I wear the shirt twice a year: on Elvis’ date of birth and on the date of his death.

My wedding boots. I haven’t worn dress shoes since I was in my early teens. I much prefer boots. I own several pair, but these are may favorite. I originally wore them to get married, but, now I wear them whenever I feel like it.

Wrangler jeans. These are pretty much the only pants I wear. However, I am not a complete dork (really!), I do wear slacks or a suit when necessary.

My Indiana Jones hat. Florinda got me this for Christmas. I haven’t had that much opportunity to wear it, because it is so new.

My motorcycle jacket. I haven’t worn it since I sold my motorcycle. Somehow, it seems too poser-like to wear the jacket if you don’t have the bike. I hope to be able to wear it again some day.


OK, so that is five items. I could pick 5 more items out of my closet just to make 10, but, I made the list to be my favorites, not just ten items.

I am willing to bet that most men/guys/dudes are in the same fashion limbo that I am. I am also willing to bet that there will be several women who have trouble narrowing their list down to 10. Oh how I envy them!

Weekend Assignment #251

Weekend Assignment #251: You have a six-month paid sabbatical, and you can spend it anywhere you like EXCEPT on a beach drinking margaritas. Where do you go, and what do you do while you're there?

Extra Credit: In real life, have you ever gone anywhere enjoyable at an employer's expense?

I am assuming that the six-month sabbatical is not due to waiting for a trail date, therefore, I am free to leave the country.

This was much harder to answer than I originally thought it would be. There are places I have always wanted to go, but, six months is a long time. Photo safaris to either Africa, or Alaska came to mind, but, again, six months? Alaska gets friggin' cold and Africa gets farkin' hot. I thought about Italy: the food, art, the food.

So where would I spend it? With my camera in a rental car (a comfortable rental car!) - traveling all around the United States. Why drive? More often than not, the best trips I have taken in my life have been road trips. Driving slows you down and allows you to take in the scenery. It allows you to experience unexpected wonders that you would miss flying. You happen upon wonderful, people, places and moments not in your original itinerary. You can go where and when you want to - you can make that "left turn at Albuquerque." You can stop into a diner/burger joint. You can see sights that you thought only existed in coffee table books. Usually we fly long distances due to time restrictions, but, hey, I've got six months! I'm driving!

Extra Credit: Hell Unfortunately, no.