Transformers Vault

Title: Transformers Vault: The Complete Transformers Universe - Showcasing Rare Collectibles and Memorabilia

Author: Pablo Hidalgo

Publisher: Abrams

I’ve said it numerous times on this blog, that I am a newbie when it comes to Transformers.  Although I did watch them as a child, only until recently have I become interested in them again.  I started off watching a few episodes on DVD a few years ago and those brought back a lot of memories.  I also started buying the toys, though I prefer displaying them in auto mode.  However I was still confused about the whole story behind the franchise, so I decided one day to go online and read up on them.  This didn’t go very well because there were pages and pages of stuff to read that was all confusing.  As a result I gave up, and just stuck to watching a few TV episodes at a time and buying a toy once in a while as well.

Then one day I went online and discovered that someone had written a book about the entire franchise that contained many cool features and that was an easy read.  The book is called ‘Transformers Vault’ and is written by Pablo Hidalgo.  The book comes in a protective hard cover, features great art work, the writing is informative (gets to the point) and brief, and best of all it covers the entire franchise from where the Transformers started to the animated TV series, comics, toys, and even movies.  I bought my copy on sale, and with all the goodies it comes with I would definitely recommend it to anyone that loves the Transformers.

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Vault-Showcasing-Collectibles-Memorabilia/dp/0810998688/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_1

YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8gHybsmyhA

Garrett Popcorn Shops

When you ask people what city they like to visit the most, they would probably say New York City, Paris, or Los Angeles.  I on the other hand have always loved Chicago.  Let me list the reasons why; the Chicago Bulls, the Bears, the Cubs (not the White Soxs), John Hughes films, the house from Home Alone, police car chases, O'Hare Airport and I especially love the food (deep dish pizza).  Another big attraction about Chicago has been Oprah.  While I haven’t been an avid fan or viewer, I have always loved to watch Oprah’s Favourite Things Christmas special.  One favourite thing that made me want to buy it immediately when she showed it was Garrett’s Popcorn.  I thought to myself if Oprah (a super rich billionaire) could get excited about eating that popcorn, I had to try it out.

So when I finally had a chance to visit the Windy City, buying this popcorn was on the top of my list of things to do.  Let me start off by saying this popcorn is very expensive but totally worth it.  The tin can I buy for friends and family is around $62, while the Jumbo Mix (wax paper bag) I buy for myself is around $13.75.  Garrett offers few favours in popcorn, however they don’t need to offer many because the one’s they have already taste amazing.  The flavour I buy is the Chicago Mix, which is Caramel Crisp & Cheese Corn mixed together.  I know that combination may seem strange but once you have a chance to try it, you won’t be able to stop eating.  So if you’re ever in Chicago make sure to stop by a Garrett’s location and try some popcorn.

Garrett’s:

http://www.garrettpopcorn.com

YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZWrcWEbTaY

Medieval Times Toronto

I’ve always wanted to go to Medieval Times.  The first time I learned about it was when I saw the movie The Cable Guy.  In it there is a scene where Jim Carrey does battle with (that guy that used to be cool but is now a nerd) Matthew Broderick.  My first reaction to that scene was, ‘hey I want to do that!’  Unfortunately just like my dream to fight a monkey with a pocket knife, Medieval Times won’t allow me to battle a friend in knight armour.  While not a total disappointment, Medieval Times still gets a thumbs up from me because they still showcase other people fighting with swords.

I took advantage of a recent half price deal and went to a show with a couple of friends.  The show itself is very entertaining and educational.  I got to see horses (which didn’t smell from where I was sitting), a hawk that flew around, some kind of medieval sports tournament, and some awesome sword fights.  My favourite part from Medieval Times was that I got to see the entire show while eating chicken with my fingers.  The food isn’t anything special, but being able to watch a live show and be served by a friendly wait staff really made the trip enjoyable.  The show is very educational, exciting, and both adults and children will have fun.

Medieval Times:

http://www.medievaltimes.com

YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8RAZhg5IeI