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Monday, August 31, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Sneak Peaks!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
True Blood Vs. Twilight
True Blood, which is novel based has become HBO's biggest summer hit. - the entire first season of the HBO show was based upon the first book in the series called Dead Until Dark (The Southern Vampire Mysteries, Book 1) by Charlaine Harris. The Sookie Stackhouse novels has a rabid and devoted fan-base. See True Blood on Twitter http://truebloodtwitter.net/
Sookie Stackhouse is a young, intelligent, and extra-sensory perception wielding southern lady. Sookie has rejected the advances of men she has known since she states "it's hard dating regular guys when you know what they're thinkin'." (that is, until she meets her charming, romantic, vampiric counterpart).
The most obvious difference, at the out-set, between the two stories and the worlds that Bella and Sookie live in is the fact that, in Sookie's world, vampires are commonly known to exist, and they are openly trying to assimilate into human society (for the most part, at least). The clever name of the television series, in fact, comes from the title of the bottled blood that vampires (are supposed to) live off of. In Twilight, by sharp contrast, the world is mostly unaware of the existence of vampires, and the vampires that do exist (save for the Cullens and the Denali clan) are mostly nomadic and do not try to resist their thirst.
Sookie (played by Oscar-winner Anna Paquin) is eager to become affiliated with vampires, and when she meets Bill, she, like Bella Swan, is totally enamored with him. Unlike Bella, Sookie can let Bill bite her without necessarily becoming a vampire as the procedure for "the change" is quite different between these two stories.
Bill (played by British Stephen Moyer) is a bit like Edward Cullen (played by also-British actor Robert Pattinson) in that he is frustrated with his circumstances as a vampire and wants to be different from some of the less human-friendly others of his kind. Edward comes across as a tortured vampire, where Bill just seems uptight.
Also, there is another similarity. In True Blood, as in The Twilight Saga: New Moon, there are also shape-shifting (werewolves, arguably) humans such as Sam (played by Sam Trammell) and Twilight's Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). Although in the Sookie Stackhouse Novels there are much more than just werewolves.
Perhaps most obviously, one similarity between these two series (book and TV/film) is the fact that the protagonist is a woman, who carries a voice and virtue that her audience can identify with. Her relationships with vampires in the stories is trying, at times, but for the most part one which she wants and finds love and comfort within. Both Sookie and Bella have a uniqueness about them and when they meet their vampiric counterparts their lives change forever.
As for the actors, Anna Paquin delivers in True Blood. She is able to present the southern sweet belle charm at the out-set so well, but also maintain that consistent edge that Sookie Stackhouse has. In other words, she is sweet, but she has a low tolerance for bull all the same. Kristen Stewart, similarly, presents us with a Bella Swan which we can recognize from the book series - inward, thoughtful and intelligent, learned, and constantly in awe of her leading man. Stephen Moyer effectively presents the inner struggle that his character has as well as the consuming desire to protect Sookie in True Blood. One could literally feel his pain as he lay in wait (because, in True Blood, vampires cannot come out in the sun, and, in the south, cloud coverage is not helpful) to come to Sookie's rescue. Robert Pattinson's performance of Edward Cullen runs through a similar vein - the viewer can identify with the washes of strife that come across his face, but are taken by his cavalier and courtesy throughout the story.
Both of these vampiric stories have elements that, at times seem to mirror each other but, once you sit and digest the differences of these books, the more you can love both series for what they are. Twilight is aimed more toward the teen crowd while True Blood is definately more adult oriented and to be honest, reading the books aimed toward the younger crowds made me feel pervish and I do not feel like a perv for lusting after the Vampire Viking Sheriff Eric Northman.
Monday, August 24, 2009
What is a MAENAD?
"The god, the son of Zeus, delights in banquets, and loves Peace, giver of riches, goddess who nourishes youths. To the blessed and to the less fortunate, he gives an equal pleasure from wine that banishes grief." The MAENADS or Bacchants are women sacred to Dionysus , maddened by his inspiring power.
Outfit
The MAENADS are followers of the god of the vine. They bore the thyrsos, a staff that is crowned with ivy, and wore the skin of a panther, a beast loved by Dionysus for being among the most excitable of animals. The MAENADS also put a snake over their locks, for Zeus crowned his son with snakes when he let him come out of his thigh.
Soldiers of Dionysus
Since Dionysus 2 discovered the precious nectar of the vine, he was resisted by several who opposed the introduction of his rites. The MAENADS then, acting like soldiers, favoured the god and his rites, and fought against his impious enemies, such asPentheus 1 and Lycurgus 1; but also Orpheus was killed by them for disputed reasons.
Their inspiration
The MAENADS have been reported to be able to perform miracles, for it has been said that where one of them stroke the ground with her thyrsos, there came forth a stream of wine, and when they scratched the earth with their fingers they obtained streams of milk. And it has also been told that from the thyrsos dripped honey. The MAENADS could do such things, they say, because they were possessed and not in their senses. Their playing and dancing, it is said, should not be quelled, for the MUSES love the flute, and they would be angered by those attempting to pacify and put down these god-inspired women.
Their fury
But they were also known for being most cruel against the enemies of the god they worshipped. For being possessed by the unusual strength that came from bacchic frenzy, they could tear apart whoever came in their way, as it happened to King Pentheus of Thebes, who was torn limb by limb by them. And they could rout armies, for they could not be wounded when touched by enemy weapons, but they inflicted casualties on their opponents by hurling the thyrsoi at them. It is also said that they could carry heavy objects on their shoulders without holding them with bounds, and that they carried fire on their locks without being burned. So, possessing such amazing qualities, they could fall upon towns, turning everything upside down, for no one could resist them. And yet it is told that the MAENADS were imprisoned by King Lycurgus 1 (known for being fond of cutting people to pieces, and for decorating his gates with their extremities), the first to oppose Dionysus, some say in Thrace.
Young god
Dionysus travelled through Lydia and Phrygia in Asia Minor, coming also to India. Assisted by the MAENADS and the SATYRS, he set to dance all those nations, establishing his mysteries, so that all would acknowledge him as a deity. This was no easy task because Dionysus was a late comer (he was the grandson of Cadmus, the founder of Thebes) and also because mortals are easily scared. But the MAENADS, with their many wonders, proved that they were possessed and inspired by a god. And those who were unwilling to accept Dionysus, the general of the MAENADS, were ruined, to let them understand what it meant no to be initiated in the Bacchic rites.
Many from abroad
Since Dionysus conquered the East before he came to Hellas, many forming his sacred band were recruited among those called barbarians, who came with the Phrygian drums which Dionysus invented, along with Rhea, the mother of the gods. The MAENADS celebrated this god of delight with hymns, and knowing his rites and having their souls initiated in the Bacchic revels, kept their lives pure, danced in inspired frenzy, and performed holy purifications, accompanying themselves with the heavy beat of drums.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
True Blood Contest!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Who Would You Cast?
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Ask Hadley!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
If they made it.
Vomit Inducing Vampire Jokes
A: Count Duckula
Q: What does a vampire fear most?
A: Tooth decay
Q: Where did the vampire open his savings account?
A: At a blood bank
Q: What does a baby bat say before going to bed?
A: Turn on the dark. I'm afraid of the light!
Q: What is Transylvania?
A: Dracula's terror-tory
Q: Where does Dracula water ski?
A: On Lake Erie
Q: How do vampires get around on Halloween night?
A: By blood vessels.
Q: What's the part of a restaurant where vampires don't suck blood?
A: The non-Suckers section.
Q: What kind of ship does Dracula own
A: Blood vessel.
Q: Why doesn't anyone like Count Dracula?
A: He's a pain in the neck.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Curious
The Sun and its place on your chart are the most important information astrology can provide you with. Your most powerful energies and force-of-will are denoted by the Sun's position. Traits: Determined, Forceful, Emotional, Intuitive, Powerful, Passionate, Exciting and Magnetic
Dark Traits: Jealous, Resentful, Compulsive, Obsessive, Secretive and Obstinate
You were born during a period when the Sun was in Scorpio. Intuitive and ever curious, Scorpios are the great investigators of the Zodiac. They want to know everything about everyone. When an answer is needed, a Scorpio will find it for you. Unfortunately Scorpios seem to see only in black and white. They always have their own agenda and never fail to promote it.
Scorpios are the masters of their fate. They know only one way to live: on their own terms. They do not live life but attack it. When life hands them a loss, they do not waste time sulking, but rather continue on their path, sure they will eventually succeed. Scorpios are driven by their intense passions and desires. Often they are seen as imperious.
Scorpios are a secretive lot. Those around them may never know the depth of their passions. Probing the Scorpio psyche will only make them leery and cause them to flee. Whether in business or play, Scorpios love to compete. Indeed to do well, they must have an opponent. Scorpios do not take slights well. If you cross them be assured they will retaliate with their full force. Scorpios never quit and never surrender. If anyone can get a difficult task done it is a Scorpio.
Sun Sextile or Trine Moon
Your confidence to forge ahead towards reaching your goals is largely based in knowing you have the backing of your family and friends. You've managed to establish an excellent balance between your need for autonomy and your need for warm, loving relationships.
Sun Sextile or Trine Mars
Your optimism and energy make you attractive to most people. You love to compete and win, but manage not to be a sore loser. You are full of justified self-confidence that will take you a long ways towards success in any venture you attempt.
Sun Opposition or Square Saturn
While you see life as it really is, you often fail to see yourself with the same clarity. Although you're not without skills and talent, you battle an underlying self-doubt that if left unchecked will hold you back.
Sun Conjunct Uranus
Your need for personal freedom often puts you at odds with those around you, and possibly the authorities who govern your community. You are a rebel at heart and find it very difficult if not impossible to fit quietly into traditional social roles.
Moon In Virgo
The placement of the Moon on your chart denotes a region of life you travel through based upon your instincts. The Moon's placement often points to emotional issues we must address.
While you are capable of great depths in your feelings you are not one to show them often or possibly at all. It is possible for you to love someone without them ever knowing. It would not be unlikely for you to express you affection for others by helping them reach their goals or get out of trouble.
You are as challenged by accepting love as you are by showing it. To you the motives of those who show you love are suspect. You also question your worthiness when it comes to being loved by others.
Because of your reluctance to be emotionally open, those who know you may consider you very icy. Their view is strengthened by your tendency to see only the faults in people and not the good.
Moon Opposition or Square Neptune
You are a passive soul who does your best to avoid confrontation. Much of your cerebral life is devoted to your dreams and fantasies which provide you with shelter for reality's crueler moments. You have a sensitive side that is moved by the arts.
Mercury In Libra
The position of Mercury on your chart will give you insight into how you communicate with others and learn.
You have a prodigious talent for bringing people together. Whether in a business or social setting you can usually find a solution to rifts that occur. Your objectivity allows you to see all sides of an issue free of prejudice. Whatever the setting, people know they can rely on you to be fair and truly seek solutions and compromises that benefit all parties equally.
Mercury Opposition or Square Jupiter
You overflow with ideas and schemes. There seems to be no limit to your interests. You're especially driven to focus on things that will effect the future. You want to be a creator of tomorrow's world.
Venus In Virgo
Where Venus appears on your chart will provide you with information on how you relate to others on an emotional level.
While you are truly a loving person who is both caring and deeply romantic, you can be a bit too reliant on your loved ones. They can no more sate your every need than you can theirs. You are not one to create conflict in a relationship. You will do whatever you can to keep things peaceful and harmonious.
In matters of the heart you tend to take the plunge before taking the time to see if you and your partner are really right for each other. This approach can lead to some gigantic let-downs for you. Still your need to love and be loved is so strong that any false starts will only slow you down for a short time.
You are an aesthete. Art in almost any form moves you.
Mars In Cancer
Mars is the planet of action. Its placement on your chart will indicate your level of aggression and competitiveness.
You are not especially ambitious and do not need to be at the top of your field. You prefer finding a niche where you are not competing with or being confronted by others. For you security is very important others can have the glory.
While you are not likely to put up much of a fight for yourself, you will come at others who threaten your loved ones with harm or loss. Suddenly you are the "hidden tiger who leaped from the bush,"and can prove to be a most formidable foe. Your goals and ambitions revolve around your family. While others may ask themselves how they can become rich, you ask yourself are your family members happy and well.
Mars Sextile or Trine Uranus
You are full of energy and not afraid to make snap decisions. You like a bit of a risk factor in the projects you take on. You're not really suited for long term projects since you need to see results all the time to remain interested. You make a far better team leader than you do a subordinate, because you simply do not take orders well.
Jupiter In Aries
Jupiter deals with where the Universe is definitely on your side.
You value your self-reliance and ability to maintain a positive attitude even in the worst of situations. You know you are never really beaten until you give up, and you're not one to surrender. You're not one to need or want help from others. Nor are you in need of external inspiration to get started on a project. You love competition and the thrill of victory.
Jupiter Opposition or Square Pluto
You think in very large terms and usually aim to effect the future. Attaining your goals is all important to you. You are likely to socialize with people who can help you realize your dreams.
Saturn In Leo
Saturn probes our sense of inadequacy. Where Saturn is on your chart will provide a key to where you feel your weakest.
You tend to need a lot of praise from others to compensate for your lack of faith in yourself. Even social settings that should be fun and unthreatening are labor for you.
Saturn Opposition or Square Uranus
You take your ambitions and dreams very seriously and will work extremely hard to realize them. You are not the most tactful of people, so when frustrated your venting may alienate those around you. You have little patience for people who fear change.
Uranus In Scorpio
Because of distance Uranus is from the Sun, its astrological influence is measured in increments of 7 years. What this means is that the effects of Uranus influence an entire generation. The placement of Uranus on your chart denotes an area where you can expect the unexpected from the Universe and yourself.
Because of distance Uranus is from the Sun, its astrological influence is measured in increments of 7 years. What this means is that the effects of Uranus influence and entire generation.
Your generation is noted for their willingness to dispel social taboos of all kinds. You push the boundaries of accepted behavior. Fanaticism is a common trait in your generation.
Neptune In Sagittarius
Because of distance Neptune is from the Sun, its astrological influence is generally measured in increments of 14 years. What this means is that the effects of Neptune will influence an entire generation in a like manner. Neptune is the Astrological Wildcard. The area in which Neptune appears on your chart is a place where there are no rules. Anything can happen.
You are member of a generation of dreamers and purveyors of the future. You and your contemporaries are very broad-minded and thrive on new forms of spirituality. Traditional religions are far too dogmatic to serve you well, so you are very likely to explore alternative routes to find your spiritual self.
Neptune Trine Pluto
You were born in a period when there was an underlying current of spiritual awareness prevailed. Collectively your generation has a desire to increase the depths of their spiritual self.
Pluto In Libra
Because of the distance Pluto is from the Sun, its astrological influence is generally measured in increments ranging from 12 to 30 years. What this means is that the effects of Pluto influence an entire generations.
The Pluto/Leo collective includes people born within a 12 year time span. Those under the Pluto/Leo influence want to improve how people communicate on both a social and personal level. You feel much of the world's problems stem from poor communication, so the best way to create a better world is to create more effective forms of relating to one another as individuals as well as groups.
People of this generation truly want to create a more harmonious world in which to live. To do so they are often quick to lessen the importance of their differences and concentrate on what is important to all humans.
More About Scorpio
Famous Scorpians:
Marie Antoinette, Marie Curie, Martin Luther, Theodore Roosevelt, Bill Gates, Lorne Michaels, Picasso, William Penn, Christopher Columbus, Sally Field, Joni Mitchell, Mohammed, Prince Charles, Goldie Hawn, Roberto Goizueta, and Voltaire
Ideal Occupations:
Scorpions are well-suited for careers as doctors, investigators, ecologists, managers, engineers, navigators and secret agents.
Lucky Numbers: 8, 17, 26, 35, 44, 53
Scorpians Are Usually Most Compatible With: Pisces or Cancer
Planet: Pluto
Element: Water
Star Stone: Opal
Monday, August 17, 2009
Unsung Heroes
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Friday, August 14, 2009
The Ring.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Get Bitten!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
If they made it.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Being an Eternal Virgin.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Hell Hath No Fury...
Blood Drops
