Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 436
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014: Does McDonalds really want you to know what’s in their McNuggets? Really? Dog matters! The Stargate Atlantis rewatch continues with 38 Minutes!
So one of the ads that did air here during the Superbowl was a commercial for McDonalds Canada that seemed to invite questions about the ingredients in their McNuggets:
For some reason, they chose “pink goop” as an ingredient to publicly refute. Which is fine except the question would really be more applicable to their “beef” products. I didn’t see the answer to that one.
But the commercial did provoke some thought. What DOES go into a chicken McNugget? I wanted to know. So I hopped online to find out:
So What Really Is In A McDonald’s Chicken McNugget? – Rense
“But perhaps the most alarming ingredient in a Chicken McNugget is tertiary butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ, an antioxidant derived from petroleum that is either sprayed directly on the nugget or the inside of the box it comes in to “help preserve freshness.” According to A Consumer’s Dictionary of Food Additives, TBHQ is a form of butane (i.e. lighter fluid) the FDA allows processors to use sparingly in our food…”
25 Ingredients in McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets | Care2 Healthy …
“Dimethylpolysiloxane– used as an anti-foaming agent, this industrial chemical is typically used in caulking and sealants and comes with a list of safety concerns. It’s best reserved for industrial sealants than for food.”
Er, okay McDonalds Canada. Thanks for prompting me to do my own research – and convincing me NOT to eat at McDonalds.
Hey, the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce has invited Michael Vick as a guest speaker for some event called the “Evening of Champions”. Kind of odd given that Michael Vick hasn’t won any championships over the course of his football career. Most recently, he played for the Philadelphia Eagles who backed their way into a division title – on the strength of back-up quarterback Nick Foles’ performance.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/03/michael-vick-evening-of-champions_n_4717230.html
Anyway, I can’t wait to see who they’ve lined up as their next speaker. Might I suggest a reformed serial killer or that Kony guy.
So far, the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce Facebook page has racked up over 1050 comments. And they aint exactly positive: RaleighChamber
Meanwhile, file this one under “You’ve got to be kidding me.” Dog surrendered to high kill animal control because owners are going on vacationexaminer.comUpdate via Pets Connect Us (Facebook): Oso was reclaimed by his owners. The reasons that pets are surrendered to animal control facilities are many…moving, ba Would love to offer this owner a few words.
Last week, I posted a story about Pennie Jekot, the director of The Humane Alliance of Rutherford County, who, it’s been alleged, swiped some poor, elderly couple’s chihuahua. Perhaps this all some innocent misunderstanding on the part of Ms. Jekot? Well, if so, she’s in no hurry to return the dog. Unfortunately for her, a lot of people are pissed off. And getting organized. If you’d like to help the Bring Buddy Back Home cause, check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bringbuddybackhome/
Continuing our Stargate Atlantis rewatch with…Thirty-Eight Minutes!
Ouch. Many of the early episodes actually improve with a nostalgic reviewing. This one…not so much. Nevertheless, I kept my mouth shut during the screening so as not to unfairly sway Akemi. As it turned out, it wouldn’t have mattered if I had. She wasn’t a fan. In fact, she was downright bewildered.
Surprisingly, she didn’t bump on the plastic bug latched to Sheppard’s neck for most of the episodes, but she did have a problem with those two filler scenes. The first, the one in which Halling and the Athosians approach Weir regarding some Athosian pre-death ceremony; the second, Kavanaugh’s extended complaint scene with Weir: “Why? What the purpose? It’s like they just want excuse to show she is good commander.” Hmmm.
She also took exception to Sheppard’s poor marksmanship: “He’s not good at shooting. Jamil [SGU's Ronald Greer] is better.”
Again, the episode highlights for her were humorous, both intentional (“I like the cranky guy. Chotto funny. McKay need sugar.”) and unintentional (“When the bug saw him with bug and left him. Adios.”). In fact, her most impassioned response came in the episode tag when the rest of the team visit Sheppard in the infirmary and Teyla walks in wearing a rainbow top. ”WTF is that?!” And then, noticing Weir’s bizarre all-brown (leather? suede? mohair?) ensemble: “WTF IS THAT?!!”.
Overall: “I preferred last night’s episode.” And leave it at that.
For my part, in reviewing the show, one thing stands out for me above all others: the Athosians. Damn, they’re annoying.
Also, Kavanaugh has a point. I mean, consider this: He and a bunch of scientists are in the midst of spinning various scenarios for rescue when he posits the possibility that McKay’s access of the puddle jumper’s systems could initiate an explosion, an explosion that could transfer through the gate. He doesn’t say it’s a certainty, but a possibility. Hell, the scientist he is arguing with doesn’t deny the possibility although he she considers it unlikely. It’s still a possibility. Weir’s response is to dress Kavanaugh down for having the audacity to bring up the potential danger, even going so far as to suggest he did so out of concern for his life over the lives of those trapped in the puddle jumper. Uh, what? If Kavanaugh’s worst case scenario does unfold, he’s going to be one of MANY Atlantis personnel injured or killed by the blast. Also, he wasn’t suggesting they give up on rescue (as Weir intimates), only that they reconsider allowing McKay to poke around at random.
Needless to say, I await tonight’s screening of Suspicion (Paul and my first Atlantis episode – and a heavy Athosian one no less!) like a street fight bracing himself for a baseball bat blow to the head.
Mailbag:
Line Noise writes: “The most memorable scene of Hide and Seek was when Sheppard pushed McKay off the balcony in front of Weir. Weir’s horror and the boyish gleam in Sheppard’s and McKay’s eyes is priceless.”
Answer: Agreed. That was my favorite moment in the episode.
Line Noise also writes: “I think Jinto just needs a mother. What happened to Jinto’s mum?”
Answer: Sadly, she ran off with a traveling hand-held fire-starter salesman.
Line Noise also writes: “What, for that matter, happened to Jinto’s dad’s leg that required him to hop around on crutches? Was that originally in the script or did Christopher Heyerdahl hurt himself and it had to be written into the story?”
Answer: Chris, the actor, suffered an injury prior to filming so Robert Cooper simply wrote it into the script – much like the Daniel appendicitis of SG-1 season 3′s Nemesis.
Deborah Rose writes: “this episode rose above the material. The energy monster was meh, though the way the heroes resolved it was sensible. Loved that Teyla saw what the others took a long time to grasp. Loved the comedy in the episode, especially Sheppard’s evil delight in having shot at McKay. Loved McKay’s growth, in stepping out to be the hero, even knowing the high probability of death. Handled less adroitly, this whole episode would have reeked. But cast and production managed to put together something that was worth watching, and even rewatching.”
Answer: Uh, you appear to be contradicting yourself here. You start off by stating the episode rose above the material (the implication here is “the script) and compliment the cast and production, but everything you lauded (“Loved that Teyla saw what the others took a long time to grasp. Loved the comedy in the episode, especially Sheppard’s evil delight in having shot at McKay. Loved McKay’s growth, in stepping out to be the hero, even knowing the high probability of death.”) was actually scripted.
majorsal writes: “Answer: True. If she enjoys Atlantis and wants to check out SG-1, I’ll probably start with season 9.
you’ve got to be kidding. to me, that’s the *worst* season of the entire sg1 run! come on, joe, let her see the golden and BEST of this series!”
Answer: As I said, if I sat her down to watch SG-1′s first season, she’d probably excuse herself and then secretly hop on the first plane back to Japan. That was a rocky first season with some very rough visual effects.
kabra writes: “We’re commenting on Hide and Seek, correct?? I am a little puzzled by the “force field” that McKay wears. He can pick up,physically wrap his hands around the the coffee mug, but he can not drink from it. How is that?”
Answer: Yes, a very unique force field that doesn’t allow foreign matter to enter the body (i.e. food and drink) with the exception of air. I’ve always wondered about the reverse.
arctic goddess writes: “I also loved McKay’s general hypochondria with fears that he was dying from all sorts of innocuous issues. Who came up with these very interesting personality quirks? Do writers add that to the script, then it is approved or not approved by the producer?”
Answer: On Stargate, the writers WERE the producers, so the steps to approval were very short. McKay’s personality quirks were scripted and developed by Robert Cooper and Brad Wright who based these quirks on certain individuals they worked with in the past.
Randomness writes: “Realistically do you think the Athosians could have settled on Atlantis over the long term? Naturally as the expedition was relatively new to the city, do you think there was some concern that they may press something/do something that may cause trouble(Even accidently), that could have made the team think that perhaps while they get to grips with the city and its functions that the Athosians would be better off elsewhere?”
Answer: Sure, I think that the Athosians could have proven themselves capable enough. But I suspect they would have been no less annoying.
Today’s entry is dedicated to blog regular 2cats. Happy belated birthday!!!
Tagged: Atlantis, Dogs, science fiction, scifi television, SGA, SGA Rewatch, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis Rewatch, Stargate Rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis
February 3, 2014
February 3, 2014: The Superbowl wrap-up! Our Stargate Atlantis rewatch continues with Hide and Seek!
Whoa. Didn’t see that coming. Well, I kind of did given that I correctly predicted a Seahawks victory (see last blog entry), but I was far too generous in my estimation of the Broncos’ offence (and clearly underestimated the Seattle defense). It wasn’t a great game (unless you’re a Seahawks fan) and those much-ballyhooed Superbowl commercials weren’t all that special either. Alas, being in Canada, we are stuck watching our super-lame Canadian commercials – roughly the same half-dozen replayed ad nauseum – so we didn’t get to see those multi-million dollar ads. Until much later when I hopped online and checked them out. For the most part, highly forgettable. But there were a few winners. The following were my favorites…
NEWCASTLE BROWN ALE
CARMAX
DORITOS
Agree? Disagree? What were your favorites? If they include cloying kids (ie. that Cheerios commercial), then I’m afraid you’re automatically disqualified.
Continuing our Stargate: Atlantis rewatch. Last night, Akemi and I (and, I assume, many of you who are rewatching along with us) checked out the show’s third episode, Hide and Seek. So,what did Akemi think?
Surprisingly, she liked it quite a bit. I say “surprisingly” because, well, compared to the thrilling opening two-parter (Rising I and II), episode #3 was comparatively sedate. Also, the fact that she almost dozed off during the search for Jinto suggested otherwise – but she quickly perked up once the shadow creature appeared. Overall, a mixed bag for her – but one predominantly filled with hazelnuts (her favorites) over pecans (her least favorites): “I liked this episode. Very interesting concept.”
Some of you asked why we’re watching the shows in reverse order. Wouldn’t it make more sense to start with SG-1? Well, yes, but if we started with SG-1, we probably wouldn’t have gotten through the first episode of the franchise. Akemi is highly sensitive to a show’s dated aspects. If it looks old, she just won’t watch it. And that’s why we started with SGU, the last iteration of the franchise that boasted the very best visual effects. Akemi greatly appreciates “computer graphics” and, as we started SGA, I wasn’t sure how the VFX would hold up after so many years. The answer? Judging from Akemi’s reaction, pretty damn fine. She thinks highly enough of SGA’s visual effects in general but has particular praise for the establishing shots of Atlantis on the water: “I love this shot. Beautiful.”
Her lowlight of the episode was (ah, a girl after my own heart) the “stupid kids”, especially the wandering/random-button-pushing Jinto. She couldn’t believe kids that age would be so clueless: “How old are they? They look quite old. Middle high school.” And when I suggested they were just mischievous children playing hide-and-seek: “Did you play this kind of thing in middle high school?” No. I played Dungeons & Dragons. For her part, Akemi played mishievous-less trouble-free dodgeball.
And later, when Jinto visits Ford in the infirmary to apologize, she was positively incensed: “I don’t know why he didn’t angry at that kid. I’d be so angry at the kid.”
While she didn’t like the stupid kid, she DID like McKay – and her appreciation for his character continues to grow. A little humor goes a long way.
As for the other characters…
Beckett: “I find he has charming eyes.”
Sheppard: “I getting to like him.” Sort of like smoked paprika, a spice she was only introduced to when she moved to Canada but enjoys just fine now.
Weir: “Still old-fashioned.”
Teyla: “I think she’s nice. She has nice hair.” Wig!
Overall: “I liked this one better. I find more interesting and also very funny. And getting to know the characters.”
Whoops! Almost forgot. I did do a little write-up on this episode way back when:
June 8, 2012: Dim Sum and Donuts and more Stargate: Atlantis memories!
So, what did you all think of Hide and Seek?
Mailbag:
Carol writes: “If she thinks Atlantis is old fashioned then she’s going to struggle if she ever gets round to SG1…”
Answer: True. If she enjoys Atlantis and wants to check out SG-1, I’ll probably start with season 9.
Maggiemayday writes: “I still have lingering remnants of the flu, so I just slept through a Shrek marathon rather than watch the game.”
Answer: And still clearly feverish. That wasn’t Shrek. That was a homeless man rooting through your backyard.
arcticgoddess writes: “One of the best things about the very first episode that continued later on in the series was the bro-mance between McKay and Beckett. The two of them were awesome together. Many of the best lines were between the two of them. Who made the decision that McKay and Beckett would become friends? It was brilliant.”
Answer: Brad Wright and Robert Cooper established the McKay-Beckett friendship in those early episodes and developed it over the course of the season, writing to the obvious onscreen chemistry between the two Hewlett and McGillion.
Mike from Canada writes: “Does each major character has a bible? How much does it change through out the series?”
Answer: Brad and Robert provided the cast with character breakdowns as well as one on one conversations on where their characters were headed in the show’s first season. Adjustments were made as things progressed of course as Brad and Robert wrote to the show’s (and cast’s) strengths.
Jenny Horn writes: “My favorite line in both episodes is when the bespectacled science guy is in the puddle jumper bay with science guy #2 and says, “Spaceships!”, with an excited demeanor. Very endearing.”
Answer: Yeah. Whatever happened to those nerds?
Jenny Horn also writes: “Now for the music….I’m a musician, a brass player, so I love it when composers use French horns and bass trombones, and all other brass, in their works. I’m sure a lot of the music was electronically produced, but do you know if the theme was performed by a live orchestra?”
Answer: Yes, this was composer Joel Goldsmith at his very best. He was so good at what he did because he truly loved what he did. And, yes, the theme was performed by a live orchestra (in Seattle, if I remember correctly).
Bailey writes: “I don’t quite get comparing Sheppard to Eli though, wasn’t Eli the McKay like character in SGU?”
Answer: It can certainly be argued that all three Stargates were “team” shows. Still, it’s pretty clear that the story is mainly seen through the eyes of a singular main character, one who is a little more grounded than the rest and offers viewers at home the opportunity to live vicariously through this “average Joe’s” experience. Again, one can debate how “average” these protagonists were, but there’s no denying the fact that THEY were the ones audience members connected with most. In SG-1, it was Jack. On Atlantis, it was Sheppard. And, on Atlantis, it was Eli. All three were, to a certain extent, fish out of water amidst the Stargate experts.
Tagged: Atlantis, science fiction, scifi television, SF, SGA, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis Rewatch, Stargate Rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, Superbowl 48, Superbowl ads, Superbowl commercials
February 2, 2014
February 2, 2014: Superbowl Extra Large 8! My prediction! And admonishment! Our Stargate Atlantis Rewatch continues with Rising II!
Who is going to win Superbowl XLVIII (a.k.a. Superbowl Extra Large 8)? Got your pick? Well, so does Madden 25, EA’s football-based video game that predicts the Broncos beating Seahawks in overtime, 31-28:
So what? So what if a computer simulation says the Denver Broncos will be hoisting the Vince Lombardi trophy in New York this Sunday (or maybe some other day, depending on the weather?). Well, perhaps for no other reason than the fact that this particular video game has correctly called the winner of eight of the last ten Superbowls. As any compulsive gambler will tell, that’s mighty impressive.
But before you Broncos fan start celebrating the early victory, it seems like another, equally efficient, computer simulation has picked the Seahawks to beat the Broncos 24-21:
COMPUTER: Seahawks will Beat Broncos 24-21…
So what? So what if some OTHER computer says the Seattle Seahawks will be the ones making Disney World plans on Sunday given that Madden NFL Football has an 80% accuracy rate in predicting Superbowl Winners since it started running its annual simulations? Well, because the Prediction Machine’s Predictalator ran over 50 000 simulations of the game which saw the Seahawks win 54.8% of the time to the Broncos 45.2% with a most common score of 24-21 Seattle. Also: ““Since Week 2 of the NFL season, the Predictalator’s projected Super Bowl every week was Denver vs. Seattle.”
Also, this ape is picking the Seahawks to win: APE: SEAHAWKS To Win…
So what? It’s just an ape! Well, this ape has correctly predicted the last six Superbowl winners.
Whichever way this game goes, there’s no denying that Superbowl Extra Large 8 pits the two best teams in the National Football League (Sorry, 49er fan), the first time this has happened in recent memory. It’s the high-flying offensively minded Denver Broncos versus the tenacious defensive-minded Seattle Seahawks! Who’ll come out on top?
Well, to be honest, despite the fact that these ARE the two best teams in the NFL meeting in the championship, I don’t have a whole lot of love for either team. Still, it could have been worse. We could have had a Patriots vs. 49ers Superbowl I would have had little or no interesting in watching. No, at the very least, this one offers a terrific match-up with plenty of drama, both on and off the field. Which is why I’ll be going with…
The Seattle Seahawks. Why? Mainly because I was so annoyed by the self-righteous indignation that followed cornerback Richard Sherman’s post-game interview after Seattle’s victory over San Francisco I feel it only right the Seahawks should win. Yes, I’m not so much rooting for the Seahawks as I am rooting against everyone who expressed dismay because their feelings were hurt by what Sherman said after the NFC Championship game. ”That player was so mean to that other player. I hope he loses!”. Really? Is this your first time watching professional sports? Do you imagine the pleasantries exchanged between opposing players during the heat of the game running something like this:
Crabtree: I say, old boy. Do you mind if I race by you enroute to a touchdown?
Sherman: Apologies, my good man. I simply cannot allow it.
Crabtree: I’m afraid I’ll have to insist.
Sherman: It just won’t do.
Crabtree: I suppose we’ll have to agree to disagree.
Sherman: Alrighty then. Best of luck to you.
Crabtree: And you, sir.
If so, you have every right to be upset. But no right to watch professional sports ever again. Your football-viewing privileges have been revoked. This Sunday, kindly busy yourselves with alternate pursuits like purchasing new throw pillows for the guest bedroom or penning a firm but polite letter to the editor objecting to his use of the word “hell” in a non-religious context.
Anyway, I’m sure it’ll be a close game, but you know what they say: “Offense wins game, but defense wins championships”. And Seattle has the better D.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 34 DENVER BRONCOS 24
Continuing our Stargate: Atlantis rewatch. Akemi’s thoughts on Rising II…
After viewing Rising II, I can say that she is definitely warming up to the show. Well, maybe “warming up” is not the right term. More “thawing out”. The show’s dated elements (she keeps referring to “hairstyles and fashion” which, I suspect, actually means “Weir’s hairstyle and fashion”) are clearly the biggest stumbling block to her enjoyment. Still, she is enjoying “the computer graphics” which still stand up for the most part.
She enjoyed the second half of the two-part opener more than the first and was surprised by Sumner’s death: “I was surprised the fact Colonel Sanders died so quickly. I thought Colonel very important position.” Fear not. Plenty more where he came from.
On the other characters…
Beckett: “I like Beckett. I find very cute.”
McKay, who she actually cited as one of her favorites by episode’s end: “Always complaining, like Italian-Canadian people. But I like it.”
Teyla: “She looks like Beyonce.”
Ford: “Not sure about lieutenant Ford. Good.”
Weir: “She looks just so old-fashioned for me.”
Sheppard: “He is cool, but I don’t know. I liked Eli a lot. Eli is more likeable. I don’t like super strong main character.”
Overall: “This [show] is more easier to predict what happens. SGU is more surprising. But so far, just two episodes.”
For my part, I quite enjoyed my rewatch of Rising II. Loved the city rising up out of the ocean, the puddle jumper vs. dart sequence, the wraith queen’s creepy/dramatic entrance.
A couple of years ago, I offered a little insight into some of the show evolving elements, first introduced in this two parter – among them: wraith mind tricks, wraith killability, and that lovable scamp Jinto…
June 7, 2012: Day of Stargate Past – Atlantis, Rising I and II
Another evolving element was the wraith cells that went from magically retractable doors to the plain rising/falling/sliding doors of later episodes. Why the change? Well, let’s chalk this one up to “It seemed like a good idea at the time.” The retractable, web like doors looked great in the opener but, in hindsight, were an unnecessary expense – a visual effects shot every time the wraith opened and closed a cell! That’s money that could have been put to better use, like, say, a stun blast or extra coconut cake on the lunch truck.
So, what did you all think?
Randomness writes: “In your opinion, why do you think Jack was so eager for John to go to Atlantis? Do you think he saw potential in John or do you think it may also be because he knew John had the ATA gene, and had a somewhat questionable history and thought perhaps with all this combined it was the best choice for him?”
Answer: I think that Jack saw a lot of himself in John Sheppard – brash, a bit of a loose cannon. Perhaps he realized that, by joining the Atlantis expedition, Sheppard would have the opportunity to actualize his potential…much like Jack did after heading up SG-1.
Bailey writes: “ Just a thought, do you think knowing some details about the people behind the scenes from what you have told her has any influence on how she perceives the characters in both SGU and SGA?”
Answer: Do you mean did I tell her about the time Jelly ate Michael Shanks’s tuna sandwich? No. She knows nothing about any of the actors outside of their onscreen personas.
fsmn36 writes: “He flirts all day, but always seems strangely taken aback when a woman actually throws themselves at him (because that’s the other thing, John never chases them). Thoughts on that aspect of Sheppard, Joe? Was he meant to be a playboy and I’m merely too protective of him?”
Answer: I don’t think there’s any denying the fact that Sheppard was a bit of a playboy…but more often than not, uh, cooler heads prevailed.
Tagged: Atlantis, football, NFL, SGA, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis Rewatch, Stargate Rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, Superbowl, Superbowl 48, Superbowl Extra Large 8, Superbowl XLVIII
February 1, 2014
February 1, 2014: The Hot Chocolate Tour Continues with Rounds #12 and #13! Twisted Romance vs. Beyond the Milky Way! Winter Citrus vs. Chocolat Glacé a la Cardamome! Our Stargate Atlantis Rewatch Begins with Rising 1!
“You must be so sick of hot chocolate by now,”said my buddy Ivon. Sick of hot chocolate?! I can’t afford to be sick! I’ve only reached the halfway mark of my hot chocolate marathon, my bid to sample all 62-ish flavors being offered as part of this year’s Hot Chocolate Festival.
Round #12…
Twisted Romance: You’ll go gaga over hot chocolate made with Aussie natural black licorice. Served with chocolate-dipped natural black licorice.
Available at: Gem Chocolates 2029 West 41st Avenue, Vancouver.
The chocolate-dipped natural black liquorice that accompanied this drink was VERY strong. I couldn’t finish it. The hot chocolate, in contrast, was actually quite subtle. Chocolate was the predominant flavor with a hint of the black licorice. Unless, of course, you actually ate the licorice bits that studded the whipped cream topping.
Beyond the Milky Way: Valrhona Araguani dark chocolate (72%), pear and almond milk (dairy free). Served with “Marocaine” (almond flour ball flavoured with orange blossom water (dairy free).
Available: French Made Baking 81 Kingsway, Vancouver
Another surprisingly subtle entry. Neither the pear nor the dark chocolate was particularly pronounced, but the flavor of almond milk was unmistakable. The drink was possessed of a delightfully mellow, smooth and creamy texture. Akemi quite enjoyed the Marocaine that accompanied our hot chocolate. I’m not sure why we were served it in a take-out cup since we’d ordered it “for here”.
Verdict: This one was tough. Both were fine. By the slimmest of margins…
Winner: Beyond the Milky Way (French Made Baking)
Round #13…
Winter Citrus: Take a trip to Seville with this hot chocolate flavoured with orange blossom. Served with a citrus marshmallow.
Available at: Last Crumb Cafe, 3080 Main Street (Main and East 15th), Vancouver.
I liked the lingering aftertaste of the slightly bitter orange essence, but Akemi found it almost medicinal and reminiscent of the orange-flavored medicine she used to take as a child. The hot chocolate was very sweet and didn’t really offer a counterpoint to the equally sweet marshmallow.
Chocolat Glacé a la Cardamome: Cardamom flavoured iced drinking chocolate. Served with a Gaufre de Liège waffle, along with a side of fleur de sel caramel or chocolate hazelnut spread.
Available at: Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France, 198 East 21st Ave., Vancouver, B.C.
www.chocolaterienouvellefrance.ca
Something a little different – a chilled chocolate drink with a hint of cardamom. Although I preferred the coconut version I had last week, I thought this drinking chocolate was very good. And the accompanying waffle, with a side of fleur de del caramel, terrific.
Verdict: Even setting aside the waffle, I have to go with…
Winner: Chocolat Glacé a la Cardamome (Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France)
Alright. Last night marked the start of our Stargate: Atlantis rematch – and Akemi’s first time watch of the classic SF series. So, what did she think?
Within the first five minutes (Ancients, Atlantis leaves Earth, the present-day scientists are working at the newly discovered base, talk of the Ancient gene): “I’m confused.”
I gave her a brief primer which she seemed to understand – or, at the very least, pretended to understand because she grew tired listening to the explanation.
She found the visual effects good at parts, okay in others, and was impressed with the size of some of the sets: “I find the place humongous!”
Alas, she didn’t instantly warm to our heroes. With the exception of Dr. Carson Beckett who she loved from the get-go. She found him as charming as his accent – which, I informed her was Scottish, much to her surprise: “Oh. I thought he was Italian!”.
A somewhat reserved response to our hero, John Sheppard, who she didn’t find as dashing as either Daniel Jackson or General O’Neill (or the greatly missed Eli Wallace) and who – I had to break the bad news to her – would not be heading off on the expedition. And later, when John meets Teyla for the first time: “He is playboy.” And she didn’t seem to mean it in a good way.
As the expedition prepared to head off to parts unknown, I asked her if she would join them if presented with the opportunity. ”Depend on who with,”she answered. When I told her that, quite obviously, she’d be traveling with the expedition members we’d been introduced to, her answer was a definite: “No.”
Later in the episode, when Colonel Sumner’s team encounters off-world humans – who speak perfect English no less: “They speak English?!: Then: “Perfect English.” And: “Better than me!”
After the episode ended, it was clear she wasn’t as enthusiastic as she’d been after the conclusion of Air I, but she was keeping an open mind: “Need time to get to like characters.” And some time to get used to the new series: “Different concept. Visiting planets and visitors.”
Overall: “It’s a bit old compared to SGU. Not just because of computer graphic but fashion, hair style.”
On the look of the Destiny vs. Atlantis: “SGU seems more alienish. This one looks more like Tokyo Disneyland attraction.”
And finally, almost apologetically: “I don’t know. Maybe I don’t love it.” Well, let’s give it some time. I’m sure it’ll grow on her.
As for me, it was great rewatching the pilot although, coming back at it fresh, I can see exactly what would have appealed to long-time Stargate fans – and, on the other hand, turned off potential new viewers. In brief: “Ancients, Ancient gene, English-speaking human aliens”. I did a brief walk-down-memory-lane write-up on the opening two-parter a couple of years ago:
June 7, 2012: Day of Stargate Past – Atlantis, Rising I and II
- highlighted by memories of the “new and improved” gate, theories regarding O’Neill’s reluctance to allow Daniel to join the expedition, and the ridiculous hat worn by one actor during an audition.
Rewatching the episode also brought back memories of one of the biggest bones of contention early in the show’s run. No, not a creative issue. A hair issue. Specifically, Teyla’s hair which engendered some ferocious criticism from the get-go. The debatee was heated – and didn’t get resolved until episodes later. Really.
So, what did you all think?
Tomorrow, we move on to Rising II. I’ll be posting Akemi’s review of the episode -
As well as my Superbowl prediction!
Today’s entry is dedicated to blog regulars – and birthday celebrants – Ganymede and Mamasue9!
Tagged: Atlantis, Chocolate, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Hot Chocolate Festival 2014, SGA, SGA Rewatch, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis Rewatch, Stargate Rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival, Vancouver hot chocolate Festival 2014
January 31, 2014
January 31, 2014: Hot Chocolate Festival Rounds #10 and #11! The Proposition vs. Phaun’s Fancy vs. Passionista! The Brunette Bangle vs. The Intimate Act vs. The Campfire! Kicking off the Stargate: Atlantis Rewatch!
Catching up on our tour of the ongoing Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival. Today, a couple of three-way throwdowns and a few surprises.
Round #10…
The Proposition: Eggnog and Rum Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon. Served with your choice of cookie.
Available at: Koko Monk, 1849 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
Ah, one sip and I was instantly transported. It was Christmas all over again. Alas, we didn’t receive the promised cookie, but we were so full after a big dinner, we hardly missed it.
Phaun’s Fancy: Made from 64% dark chocolate with parmesan and fresh nutmeg. Served with a side of Umami No. 5 fudge
Available: At Cocoa Nymph 3739 W. 10th Ave (at Alma), Vancouver
My first response to reading the description was: “Chocolate and parmesan? No.” But after tasting it: “Yes!”. It was the exact same reaction I had to one of Cocoa Nymph’s 2013 Hot Chocolate Festival entries that combined dark chocolate with basil and balsamic to create what turned out to be one of my Top 5 Fest Favorites. In this case, the scent of the parmesan wafts up off the cup but, when you sip it, it’s all chocolate up front with just a wisp of lingering sharpness at the back. It was reminiscent of the sweet and savory marriage of bacon and caramel. At first blush, you don’t think it will work but it does. And it’s delicious. Really! Special mention should be made of the Umami No. 5 fudge that accompanied the hot chocolate. If it was on the regular shop menu, I’d buy it by the box.
Passionista: Fresh passion fruit-infused hot chocolate with Grand Marnier chantilly. Served with passion fruit pate de fruit.
Available at: Thomas Haas, 2539 West Broadway, Vancouver.
This one was Akemi’s favorite of the six we sampled over this three-day span. It packs a passionfruit punch without overwhelming the chocolate. A lovely balance. And that Grand Marnier chantilly? Killer!
Verdict: On paper, it would have been a toss-up between the two runners-up. But in the all important taste-off, I have to go with a most unlikely winner…
Winner: Phaun’s Fancy (Cocoa Nymph)
The Brunette Bangle: Hot Chocolate with the exotic hint of curry. Served with your choice of cookie.
Available at: Koko Monk, 1849 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
A very nice sipping chocolate with a hint of lingering spice. Another unique yet surprisingly good entry.
The Intimate Act: Milk Chocolate with passionfruit. Served with a hazelnut cookie.
Available at: Beaucoup Bakery 2150 Fir Street (in Kitsilano)
A subtle drink with an excellent passionfruit flavor that shines although the chocolate is strangely muted here.
The Campfire: A classic hot chocolate, only with smoky caramel, smoked Hawaiian sea salt. Served with vanilla marshmallows.
Available at: Thomas Haas, 2539 West Broadway, Vancouver.
One of the best combinations of sweet and savory so far. The vanilla marshmallow, lightly studded with smoked Hawaiian sea salt, was fabulous.
Verdict: Another tough call, but if I had to choose one…
Winner: The Campfire (Thomas Haas)
27 flavors down! 35 to go!
Ready to go?!
Everyone prepared to trek off to the Pegasus Galaxy one more time? Hope so because our Stargate: Atlantis rematch kicks off today with the episode that started it all: Rising I. Watch it today and come armed with your insights, accolades, critiques, and questions tomorrow! Also, be prepared for Akemi’s unique take on the show as I relay her thoughts on the episode in tomorrow’s blog entry. Yes, it’s Rising I: The Japanese Girlfriend Review!
Tagged: Atlantis, Chocolate, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Hot Chocolate Festival 2014, SGA, SGA rematch, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis rematch, Stargate rematch, Stargate: Atalntis rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival, Vancouver hot chocolate Festival 2014
January 31, 2014: Hot Chocolate Festival Rounds #10 and #11! The Propositions vs. Phaun’s Fancy vs. Passionista! The Brunette Bangle vs. The Intimate Act vs. The Campfire! Kicking off the Stargate: Atlantis Rewatch!
Catching up on our tour of the ongoing Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival. Today, a couple of three-way throwdowns and a few surprises.
Round #10…
The Proposition: Eggnog and Rum Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon. Served with your choice of cookie.
Available at: Koko Monk, 1849 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
Ah, one sip and I was instantly transported. It was Christmas all over again. Alas, we didn’t receive the promised cookie, but we were so full after a big dinner, we hardly missed it.
Phaun’s Fancy: Made from 64% dark chocolate with parmesan and fresh nutmeg. Served with a side of Umami No. 5 fudge
Available: At Cocoa Nymph 3739 W. 10th Ave (at Alma), Vancouver
My first response to reading the description was: “Chocolate and parmesan? No.” But after tasting it: “Yes!”. It was the exact same reaction I had to one of Cocoa Nymph’s 2013 Hot Chocolate Festival entries that combined dark chocolate with basil and balsamic to create what turned out to be one of my Top 5 Fest Favorites. In this case, the scent of the parmesan wafts up off the cup but, when you sip it, it’s all chocolate up front with just a wisp of lingering sharpness at the back. It was reminiscent of the sweet and savory marriage of bacon and caramel. At first blush, you don’t think it will work but it does. And it’s delicious. Really! Special mention should be made of the Umami No. 5 fudge that accompanied the hot chocolate. If it was on the regular shop menu, I’d buy it by the box.
Passionista: Fresh passion fruit-infused hot chocolate with Grand Marnier chantilly. Served with passion fruit pate de fruit.
Available at: Thomas Haas, 2539 West Broadway, Vancouver.
This one was Akemi’s favorite of the six we sampled over this three-day span. It packs a passionfruit punch without overwhelming the chocolate. A lovely balance. And that Grand Marnier chantilly? Killer!
Verdict: On paper, it would have been a toss-up between the two runners-up. But in the all important taste-off, I have to go with a most unlikely winner…
Winner: Phaun’s Fancy (Cocoa Nymph)
The Brunette Bangle: Hot Chocolate with the exotic hint of curry. Served with your choice of cookie.
Available at: Koko Monk, 1849 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
A very nice sipping chocolate with a hint of lingering spice. Another unique yet surprisingly good entry.
The Intimate Act: Milk Chocolate with passionfruit. Served with a hazelnut cookie.
Available at: Beaucoup Bakery 2150 Fir Street (in Kitsilano)
A subtle drink with an excellent passionfruit flavor that shines although the chocolate is strangely muted here.
The Campfire: A classic hot chocolate, only with smoky caramel, smoked Hawaiian sea salt. Served with vanilla marshmallows.
Available at: Thomas Haas, 2539 West Broadway, Vancouver.
One of the best combinations of sweet and savory so far. The vanilla marshmallow, lightly studded with smoked Hawaiian sea salt, was fabulous.
Verdict: Another tough call, but if I had to choose one…
Winner: The Campfire (Thomas Haas)
27 flavors down! 35 to go!
Ready to go?!
Everyone prepared to trek off to the Pegasus Galaxy one more time? Hope so because our Stargate: Atlantis rematch kicks off today with the episode that started it all: Rising I. Watch it today and come armed with your insights, accolades, critiques, and questions tomorrow! Also, be prepared for Akemi’s unique take on the show as I relay her thoughts on the episode in tomorrow’s blog entry. Yes, it’s Rising I: The Japanese Girlfriend Review!
Tagged: Atlantis, Chocolate, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Hot Chocolate Festival 2014, SGA, SGA rematch, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis rematch, Stargate rematch, Stargate: Atalntis rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival, Vancouver hot chocolate Festival 2014
January 30, 2014
January 30, 2014: Upcoming Under-the-Radar Movies to Look Forward to! Or not! Join our Stargate: Atlantis Re-watch! And take part in our Book of the Month Club!
A FANTASTIC FEAR OF EVERYTHING
Release Date: February 7, 2014
What it’s about: A former children’s author seemingly loses his mind.
What it’s got working for it: It’s certainly unique and inventive-looking.
What’s it’s got going against it: Pegg’s movies are hit or miss. Even going off the trailer, it’s hard to say what to make of this one.
AFTER THE DARK
Release Date: February 7, 2014
What it’s about: Twenty college students must ten of them get to ride out the coming apocalypse in a bomb shelter.
What it’s got working for it: It’s like Survivor except that the eliminated contestants die.
What’s it’s got going against it: Uh, I’m not exactly sure what’s going on in the trailer. Is it real? An exercise? An exercise that turns out to be real? Or – WORSE OF ALL – reality that actually turns out to be an exercise all along? I’m going to go with the latter.
KIDS FOR CASH
Release Date: February 7, 2014
What it’s about: Did a small town judge paid off to sentence kids to juvenile prison?
What it’s got working for it: A fascinating true-life account.
What’s it’s got going against it: A potentially inconclusive conclusion.
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE
Release Date: February 7, 2014
What it’s about: A corporate retreat goes horribly (hilariously?) wrong.
What it’s got working for it: Some very funny people.
What’s it’s got going against it: And some unintentionally funny people as well. Jean-Claude Van Damme? Comedic genius?
THE RETURNED
Release Date: February 14, 2014
What it’s about: A cure for zombie-ism creates moral and ethical issues. Also, lots of killing.
What it’s got working for it: An interesting take on the zombie genre.
What’s it’s got going against it: Some of the performances in that trailer are even more horrific than the walking dead.
THE WIND RISES
Release Date: February 21, 2014
What it’s about: The major events of 20th century Japan as experienced by an idealist young Engineer.
What it’s got working for it: Miyazaki makes beautiful movies.
What’s it’s got going against it: Sometimes, however, the stories leave a little to be desired. Loved Totoro, Castle in the Sky, and Spirited Away. Not so much Ponyo or Howl’s Moving Castle.
THE BAG MAN
Release Date: February 28, 2014
What it’s about: A tough guy get more than he bargained for when he agrees to deliver a mysterious bag for a powerful mobster.
What it’s got working for it: Its coming across as a more accessible David Lynch movie.
What’s it’s got going against it: At times, it looks downright silly. And not good silly. If there is such a thing.
STALINGRAD
Release Date: February 28, 2014
What it’s about: The battle of Stalingrad.
What it’s got working for it: It looks epic.
What’s it’s got going against it: The fact that its subtitled and may turn off the average film-goer.
WELCOME TO YESTERDAY
Release Date: February 28, 2014
What it’s about: A group of teenagers build themselves a time machine.
What it’s got working for it: I love a good time travel story.
What’s it’s got going against it: And absolutely despise the bad ones.
A gentle reminder that our Stargate: Atlantis re-watch kicks off tomorrow, January 31st, with the opener that started it all: Rising I. Watch tomorrow, then be prepared to discuss on Saturday. I WILL be checking to make sure everybody did their homework!
And another gentle reminder that our Book of the Month Club returns with a discussion, Monday March 3rd, of Marko Kloos’s Terms of Enlistment. That’s over a month away so there’s no excuse for not participating!
Tagged: A Fantastic Fear of Everything, After the Dark, Atlantis, Atlantis rewatch, Book of the Month Club, Kids for Cash, SF Book of the Month Club, SGA, Stalingrad, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis rematch, Stargate Re-watch, Stargate rematch, Stargate: Atlantis, Terms of Enlistment, The Bag Man, The Returned, The Wind Rises, Welcome to the Jungle, Welcome to Yesterday
January 29, 2014
January 29, 2014: Upcoming Movie Releases to Look Forward to! Or not! All Aboard the Stargate: Atlantis Re-watch Express!
THE MONUMENTS MEN
Release Date: February 7, 2014
What it’s about: The true story of a special platoon entrusted with the task of safeguarding art during WWII.
What it’s got working for it: Based on a true story. And the trailer looks very promising.
What’s it’s got going against it: These “all star cast” affairs tend to be big, bloated big screen disappointments.
ROBOCOP
Release Date: February 12, 2014
What it’s about: A critically-injured soldier is turned into a cybernetic officer of the law.
What it’s got working for it: Hopefully it’ll be as good as the original with the added bonus of better visual effects.
What’s it’s got going against it: The original was pretty good. Is this reboot necessary?
POMPEII
Release Date: February 21, 2014
What it’s about: A gladiator battles to save the woman he loves against the backdrop of one of history’s greatest natural disasters.
What it’s got working for it: Starring Kit Harrington from Game of Thrones. He’s good. Also dazzling visual effects.
What’s it’s got going against it: Trying to capture that Gladiator gold. But will they end up with another leaden Troy?
NON-STOP
Release Date: February 24, 2014
What it’s about: A U.S. Air Marshal on a transatlantic flight receives a message demanding the U.S. government deposit $150 million dollars in an offshore account. If not, a passenger will be killed every 20 minutes.
What it’s got working for it: A fascinating premise. I’d love to see how they pull it off.
What’s it’s got going against it: IF they pull it off.
This Friday, we begin our Stargate: Atlantis re-watch with the series premiere, Rising I, continuing with an episode a day screening, all the way through to the series finale. I’ll follow-up each viewing with some (no doubt) fond recollections of the individual episodes and perhaps offer some interesting insights – provided I can actually remember anything. If you’d like to join our viewing marathon -
Great! Watch Rising I Friday and then drop by this blog Saturday with something to say. Loved it? Hated it? Have a question? I’ll do my best to answer your burning questions!
Tagged: Atlantis, Coming Soon, February movie releases, February movies, Non-Stop, Opening Soon, Pompeii, Robocop, SGA, SGA Rewatch, Stargate, Stargate Rewatch, Stargate: Atlantis, The Monuments Men, Upcoming Movies
January 28, 2014
January 28, 2014: Stargate Universe 2.5 – The Japanese Girlfriend Edition! Join our Stargate Atlantis Rewatch!
The other night, Akemi and I finally wrapped up our viewing of Stargate: Universe. So, what did she think? What was her take on the final ten episodes? The finale?
Well, what follows are her unique thoughts on episodes #211-220 (Stargate: Universe 2.5)…
DELIVERANCE
While she appreciated the action in this one, she did bump on the seemingly impeccable timing with which our crew was able to extricate themselves from danger…managing an FTL jump with seconds to spare. She also found the aliens had equally impressive timing. Either that or they were just being polite by waiting until Scott and Chloe complete their kiss before interrupting them: “Everything so perfect timing. And by the way, bad alien very polite too. Wait until kiss before interrupting.”
She wasn’t sure why the alien ursuni sacrificed themselves to buy Destiny time (“I don’t get seed ship. Why they sacrifice themselves? Why so nice?”), but did find the moment touching nevertheless (“So sad. Sad story. Sad alien. Just like seppuku.”).
As always, the visual effects were the star of the show (“Very interesting to see computer graphics in fighting scenes. Very cool. I like it.”)
TWIN DESTINIES
More sadness – and some confusion – abounds in this episode. Interestingly enough, she felt sadder for a miscalculating Eli than the rest of the crew who presumably perish in the unstable wormhole: “The geek boy’s mathematics wasn’t correct, right? Too bad, geek boy. Very sad for him.”
She found the “stay or go” decisions by the various characters very interesting, particular Dale Volker’s desire to stay: “I was surprised the fact Patrick wanted to stay on the ship. He was the third person! Do you believe it?” I asked her, given the choice, if she would choose to remain on Destiny. Her response: “My character not very important so maybe writer send me back to Earth.” The cold realist.
Overall, though, she really enjoyed this episode: “I liked this episode. I like expensive episodes I guess. Very cool.”
ALLIANCES
Another stone episode complete with confusing body-swapping. Still: “I kind of liked it. Exciting bomb situation going on.”
Again, she appreciated the visual effects and the “weird looking bomb”. She also patted herself on the back for being instantly suspicious of Andrew the second he boarded the ship: “Andrew creepy. Very suspicious from the beginning.”
One question she asked that I didn’t have the answer to was with regard to the old timey paintings that adorn the halls of Homeworld Command – and one in particular: “Why people pick Carl Binder’s picture over other writers? Maybe because is more sophisticated.” No, I’m sure that wasn’t it.
HOPE
While she didn’t enjoy this episode as much as the previous visual effects extravaganzas, it did have its moments. And some of those moments engendered some interesting responses…
When Ginn first shows up in Chloe’s body: “TWO girls in one body! So great for him [Eli]!”
But then, when Ginn kisses Eli: “What the fuck?!” And later: “I didn’t like the fact geek boy kiss because he was not nice to scientist guy when he wanted to kiss. Don’t forget – your body’s not really your body!”
When Rush is in strapped into the chair, experiencing the VR love-making with Amanda Perry, Akemi wondered if he had an erection and how embarrassing that would be considering the number of people in the room.
As for the B story: “I’m happy the fact surgery went well. Team Curly!”
SEIZURE
Her reaction to this episode was similar to mine: “Why such a stupid plan?”
Yes, she found this episode incredibly confusing: “What kind of mission were they trying to do? I still don’t get it. But it was nice to see Bob [Picardo]!”
After explaining the mission to her numerous times, she seemed to get it: “Stupid Chef! Always pushing ideas and fail it.”
She wasn’t quite sure what to make of McKay (“Suddenly McKay show up. He talk a lot. Very arrogant. From Atlantis. So he is famous.”), but I assured her he’d grow on her. She agreed to defer judgement until she’d had a chance to watch SGA.
But she wasn’t buying the body switching, especially the notion that a couple of people from Earth could so effectively impersonate a bunch of human aliens they’d never met: “Very hard to copy somebody’s actions. I think some people may tell. Chotto henna [kind of strange] episode.”
The biggest eye roll came with the revelation that the parameters Amanda Perry set for their VR romantic encounters was their love for one another: “How to measure love? What if more than like but a little less than love? Not very scientific.” So true.
THE HUNT
I was actually surprised by how much she enjoyed this episode, her new favorite alongside season one’s Time. She loved this episode for a number of reasons, the chiefest being the fact that her favorite character, Ronald Greer, is front and center. She also enjoyed seeing another side of Rush, the playful prankster very much in control.
“I liked this episode so much,”she said. ”Because so funny and I liked scientist’s sneaky face. Reminds me of my boyfriend. I liked the scientist so much in this episode.”
On Lisa Park’s potential romantic relationship with Volker: “She’s everyone’s girlfriend!”
Following the night time attack that kills off most of Varro’s people: “How many people you killed? My boyfriend likes to kill people.” And then: “A lot of Lucian Alliance people living together and you kill them all except your favorite Mike Dopud.” But on a more serious note: “Feels like you’re killing so many people every episode and math doesn’t go.” Oh, it goes. Trust me. It goes.
As the end credits rolled: “I liked the computer graphics, the animal creature. I liked to see Mike Dopud in the episode very much. I liked scientist doing sneaky thing. I’m chotto sad the fact Patrick’s love situation. So he’s still single?” And: “I liked as much as Time. Easier to understand.”
COMMON DESCENT
Akemi found this episode a bit of a head-spinner. ”Very confusing. Robert Cooper’s episodes always so complicated.” I prefer “complex”.
She had another question I didn’t have the answer to – as it turns out, a question I had at the time that I never got an answer to either: “What is the answer to question at beginning of episode about fruit? Good for women and don’t want to tell male? What is that? Maybe if you eat it you don’t get pimple? Something like that?” Yes, something like that I imagine.
EPILOGUE
Akemi found this episode quite touching: “So sad episode. Everybody so old looking.” In particular: “I find very sad. Very super old Young. Old Young’s life seems very sad for me.”
And Varro’s heroics weren’t lost on her. After he saves T.J. from plummeting by catching her, then swinging her to safety: “I liked that Mike Dopud helped her. So cool. Coolcoolcool.”
BLOCKADE
She was very impressed with the visual effects in this episode, one sequence even prompting a bewildered: “How to do that?”
Highlights included: “And I find set is so cool too. And Mike Dopud. Bazooka! I liked it!”
She did have some questions about Park’s ability to get out of the pool and reach the exit despite her lack of sight: “If she can’t see, how she’s able to reach the door?”
But her closing remarks were reserved, not for this episode, but the upcoming finale: “Wow. Very interesting. How to end? I don’t think they make it back to Earth. So I feel like not happy ending. Depending on the ending, I may not like the season.” How’s that for pressure? ”I’m investing for a happy ending. If not happy ending, my boyfriend have to tell me the story every night to give me a happy ending.” I referred her to THIS blog entry: May 12, 2011: Stargate: Universe, Beyond Season 2! What Might Have Been!
GAUNTLET
Finally! The finale! I feared she would hate it since there is no happy ending. Instead, we leave Destiny with the crew in stasis and Eli alone on the bridge, with two weeks to fix the damaged pod and save his life. Her response?
“I LIKED IT! Kind of happy ending. Nobody die. Three years.” And, doing the math: “So supposed to be this year!”
She loved the spectacular visual effects, the destruction of the command ships in particular, but still found the episode bittersweet: “I really feel sorry for her, the blind girl. Daisy? Lisa? So sad about her and Jamil.”
“I liked it. Happy ending. At least they figured out the possibility to survive.”
Yes, presumably the Destiny crew is out there, somewhere, drifting, perhaps only years away from waking up once again and continuing their adventures.
NEXT UP: Stargate Atlantis! Who wants to take part in the official re-watch?!
We’ll kick things off, viewing an episode a day starting Friday, January 31st with the series premiere: Rising I. And we’ll continue through the show’s full five season run – provided Akemi remains onboard! Who’s in?!
Tagged: SGU, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis Rewatch, Stargate Universe, Stargate: Atlantis
January 27, 2014
January 27, 2014: The Hot Chocolate Festival Tour Continues with Rounds #8 and #9!
Our tour of the ongoing Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival continues with not one, not two, not three, not four, but FIVE new concoctions!
The festivities continue through to February 14th, so plenty of time to check out the delectable offerings: January 04, 2014The Hot Chocolate is Here!
Round #8…
Evita: gBAR flavoured with salted caramel – Argentina style. Served with Erin Ireland’s “To Die For” Banana Bread.
Available at: Bella Gelateria, 1001 West Cordova Street.
Hmmm. I found this one a little confused. All of the various hot chocolates on the menu use a standard base (your choice of milk, dark, or very dark chocolate) to which is added a flavor accent in the form of a gelato bar. In the case of the Monkey’s Lunch, it all worked. The banana gelato married well with the chocolate and the banana bread was the perfect accompaniment. And, while I love the banana bread, it seemed like an odd accompaniment to this hot chocolate. Also, unlike the Monkey’s Lunch, the flavor of the salted caramel gelato got lost, presumably because of the heavier hot chocolate to bar ratio.
Nut Your Traditional Hot chocolate: Chipmunks will chatter over this hot chocolate flavoured with peanut butter. Served with a berry marshmallow.
Available at: Last Crumb Cafe, 3080 Main Street (Main and East 15th), Vancouver.
I suppose you can eat the marshmallow separately, but I preferred to dunk it in the hot chocolate so that it gradually melted, imparting the drink with a unique berry sweetness to counterbalance the slight saltiness of the peanut butter. This is about as close as you can get to drinking peanut butter and jelly. And it’s damn good.
The Verdict: I’m a sucker for peanut butter. I love salted caramel too but, for some reason, its flavors were strangely muted in the Evita.
Winner: Nut Your Traditional Hot Chocolate (Last Crumb Cafe)
Round #9…
Paula Dean White Trash Trainwreck: A 70% dark chocolate ganache with condensed milk, salted kettle chips, and vanilla whipped cream. Served with a 72% dark chocolate wafer.
Available at: Mink Chocolates, 863 West Hastings St., Vancouver. On the park (cross street, Hornby.)
An assembly of ingredients as inspired as its name, bursts of sweet and salty, silky, whispy, and crispy. It seems like a bizarre combination but it works. Really, REALLY well. The hot chocolate base almost attains a consistency just short of pudding. Shatter the chips, mix in the whipped cream, and you’ve got one of the most fun flavors of the festival so far. And damn delicious to boot!
Hot Toddy Float: You’d stay warm and cozy even in the peaks of Grouse Mountain with this buttered rum hot chocolate blended with wild mountain honey ice cream.
Available at: Soirette Macarons & Tea 1433 West Pender Street, Vancouver. (Coal Harbour)
I might have enjoyed this one a little more in a regular cup instead of a take-away cup, but it was quite good nevertheless. My only complaint was that, by the time my drink hit the table, the honey ice cream was no longer solid. In fairness, it may have been intentional – which is too bad since two of my top hot chocolates of the festival so far (Chocolate Arts’ Snowball’s Chance in Hell and Thierry’s Trio of Chocolate) executed the hot/cold contrast to great effect.
Peppermint Patty: Made from 70% Valrhona guanaja chocolate infused with organic peppermint and vanilla bean chantilly. Served with a double fudge cookie.
Available at: Bel Cafe, 801 West Georgia Street @ Howe (at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia)
Yeaaaargh! The first misfire of the festival! Lacking any discernible sweetness, this drink was like taking a mint buckshot to the throat. It was so intense in its mint flavor that I thought it might work better as a topical muscle relaxant instead of a drink.
Verdict: Thick chocolate ganache, kettle chips and whipped cream? UNREAL!
Winner: Paula Dean White Trash Trainwreck (Mink Chocolates)
Joining us on today’s tour was blog regular Kathode who took time away from her busy schedule to watch me achieve a sugar high unlike any other.
The chocolate line-up at Mink. I picked up a few. For later. MUCH later.
I snap a pic for my blog of Kathode snapping a pic…for her blog? How meta.
Wait! Are you supposed to drink this or apply it to your feet?
21 flavors down. We’re one third of the way to the finish line!
Today’s entry is dedicated to blog regular M. Reed. Condolences on the loss of her beloved dog. Condolences.
Tagged: Chocolate, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Hot Chocolate Festival 2014, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival, Vancouver hot chocolate Festival 2014
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