Monday, December 15, 2014

Guardians and Other Geek Gifts, Star Wars Holiday Special, Merry Christmas from Mini-Alex, Battle of the Bands, New Book Releases, and Ninja News

I have a guest post at MJ Joachim’s Writing TipsJuggling For Writers. Want some tips on how to juggle it all? (And they don’t involve tennis balls or clones!)

I’m also posting today at the IWSG site - Where to Find a Great Book Cover Artist. Some great samples and lots of links, so check it out.

Last Minute Geek Gifts

We watched Guardians of the Galaxy DVD in 3D this past week – such an awesome movie! (If you haven’t seen it, just buy the disc.)


Since Dancing Groots are nowhere to be found right now, I thought I’d give you some last minute alternatives.

From Stylin Online - a Guardians of the Galaxy Star Lord Blaster.

From Pop Vinyl - Pop! Marvel: Guardians of the Galaxy Rocket.

Think Geek had a ton of gift ideas, including hundreds of Star Trek items.
Including this Borg Fridge, ready to assimilate your beverages.

Think Geek also had a long list of Star Wars gifts.
How about a Han Solo in Carbonite Shower Curtain?

Maybe Dr. Who is your thing instead.
Want to play some Dr. Who Yahtzee?

Fantasy isn’t forgotten at Think Geek either – they even have Game of Thrones gifts.
Can I interest you in a Game of Thrones Dragon Egg Canister? (Sorry, dragon not included.)

The Star Wars Holiday Special

Lucas would prefer this remained buried, but the RiffTrax guys dug up an old VCR tape, complete with bad commercials from this 1978 ‘special.’

And it is ‘special,’ as it provides serious competition to Manos: The Hands of Fate and Plane 9 From Outer Space for the worst movie ever made.

You get Chewbacca’s family, Art Carney, Bea Arthur, Jefferson Starship, and the stars of Star Wars. The main storyline is trying to get Chewbacca home to his family for Life Day, but there is so much padding and strange elements, you’ll soon forget the movie has any meaning. The film goes from too childish for kids to really risqué with Diahann Carroll as a singing holographic prostitute.

The 1978 commercials are just as horrific.

Download it at RiffTrax and watch it – if you dare…


Ninja News

We need IWSG co-hosts!
If you can co-host in January, let me know – we need two more.
And if you could co-host in February or March, leave a comment as well.
Thanks!

I was honored to find Dragon of the Stars on Beauty in Ruins’ list of most anticipated science fiction books of 2015 – top pick for April. Thanks, Bob!

LG Keltner is celebrating her third blogging anniversary on January 9 with a Snarky blogfest! See her site for details.


New Releases

People of Foxwick and Their Neighbors
By Cherie Reich
Find it on Amazon, iTunes, and other sites.

Vitamins and Death
By Medeia Sharif
Deidra Battle wants nothing more than to be invisible…
Purchase from Prism Books or Amazon

Hope for Her (Hope Series Book #2)
By Sydney Aaliyah Michelle
Find it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and others.

2084
By Melanie Schulz
Find it on Amazon

Battle of the Bands

Welcome to Battle of the Bands! Founded by Stephen T McCarthy and Faraway Eyes. You know the routine – pick your favorite.

Since it’s Christmas, you’re getting Christmas music – Muppet style!
Here are two very different versions of Jingle Bells from our felt-covered friends.





Merry Christmas!

With the holidays coming, I will not be posting again until January 5. I will be lurking, although the week of Christmas, probably not much.

I make no secret that I am a born-again Christian, and Christmas is the celebration of the birth of my Lord and Savior. I will spend the holidays with family and friends, grateful for the precious gift God gave us.

Mini-Alex and friends would like to wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year, and holiday greetings to all!


Any of those geek gifts fit someone on your list? (Or do you want it for yourself?) Ever watched the Star Wars Holiday Special? Can you help co-host the IWSG? See any good books? Which version of the song is your favorite? And what are your plans for the holidays?

Don’t forget to visit MJ Joachim’s Writing Tips and the IWSG site!

232 comments:

1 – 200 of 232   Newer›   Newest»
ediFanoB said...

I like the Muppet Christmas songs.
In Germany you hear LAST CHRISTMAS by Wham! on nearly every radio channel.

My plan for Christmas is plain and simple:
Relaxed days with enough time for reading, sewing and playing vodeo games.

I belong to the people who never read The Lost World (digital) [Kindle ASIN: B004UJDLJE] by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You can get it for free on Amazon. Furthermore you can see the 1925 silent movie adaption for free. Follow this LINK.

Have a great week!

Rhonda Albom said...

Christmas season in summer still seems odd, and I have been in New Zealand for 11 years now. Loved the songs. Hubby would enjoy a few of those gifts. Have a wonderful time with your family and friends over the few weeks. Merry Christmas to you.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

That shower curtain is scary. And Beaker was always sort of scary to me when I was a kid...I remember that clip!

Enjoy your Christmas, Alex!

Li said...

Merry Christmas, Alex! I agree with Elizabeth, the shower curtain would scare the crap out of me. Thanks for the Andrea Bocelli clip, I've never seen it and enjoyed it immensely!

Annalisa Crawford said...

That shower curtain is amazing - I'd definitely have that in my house!

Merry Christmas Alex.

J.L. Campbell said...

Enjoy your holidays, Alex.
Congrats to the writers with new books out.
I know the geeksters will be happy with the stuff you have on display

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

I definitely don't want my son to find out about the Star Wars Holiday Special!
Congrats to everyone with new books!
Enjoy your time off, Alex! See you next year.

Jeremy [Retro] said...

I wish you the very best, I hope Groot makes a full recovery and... well happy everything!
I hope to find better strength in the new year, it has been a rough one for many of us from sadness, loss and a questioning of hope... Be well, be great and remember all the good you have.

Jeremy

S.A. Larsenッ said...

I am so getting that shower curtain!!! Haha.... 'K, so I'm now a major fan of Pop Vinyl, but I'm not sure about the Game of Throne's egg canister. I keep envisioning those 'egg' scenes birthing my cookies. Yuck... Enjoy your holiday, Alex!

Jemi Fraser said...

The Borg cube is awesome! :)
Enjoy the holiday - wishing you and your wife all the best!

Elise Fallson said...

Ok, so don't laugh, but as I was scanning over all the geek gift images, I was like, 'what's up with the pineapple?' then I though SpongeBob?.... and THEN I read the description.... :P *facepalm*
Merry Christmas to you and your family too, Alex! Enjoy the holiday. :)

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

We're planning a quiet and joyful holiday. Hope you and your wife and all your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Edi, thanks for the links. And sorry about the Wham song...

Rhonda, it would seem odd to me.

Elizabeth and Lisa, sorry to scare you with the shower curtain!

Sandra, don't tell him.

Jeremy, may next year be better.

Shari, or birthing aliens...

Elise, thanks for the laugh!

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Tonja Drecker said...

A Borg Fridge!!! That's just....wow. Since this is our 1st Christmas in new life/new world, we're just going to go with the flow. Here's wishing you and your entire family a blessed Christmas!

Bish Denham said...

Great selection of Christmas gift ideas! I LOVE the dragon egg cookie jar. As for the BOTB... difficult choice, but I'm going with Andrea and the cast of thousands, too precious for words. Have a wonderful Christmas, Alex.

Al Diaz said...

Dwarves will include that dragon egg in their Christmas Wish List since they already have a dragon. (Please let your clones know that they are 150 dwarves ;)
Dragon votes for the Muppets and Andrea's version.
That last picture rocks! The dragon looks the most dashing, hahahahaha. From everyone in the Dragon Cave, Merry Christmas, Alex!

Christine Rains said...

Awesome geeky gifts! I got a package from my mom this weekend and she sent me Tardis lights. Put them on my tree? No! They'll be up all year long in my office! :) My vote is for the Muppets and Andrea. Have a wonderful Christmas and a rocking new year!

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I already knew that about you. Yay. Me, too a born again person proclaiming Jesus as my Savior. Merry Christmas, dear Alex.

I just shopped at ThinkGeek. Love that store.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Merry Christmas to you and your family. I'll be spending mine with Granddaughter and her family. Happy New Year too.

Jo said...

I loved the Andrea Bocelli version, I always think the Muppets are so clever. Merry Christmas from Canada Alex, I hope it's a good one, oh and yes, I would like a dragon egg.

Sarah Foster said...

I kind of want to watch the Star Wars special just to see how ridiculous it is...
I can co-host any month if you'd like.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

A very Merry Xmas to you, Mrs. Ninja and Mini-Alex. You bring blogland together, and we love you for it. xo

Anonymous said...

HI Alex,

Of all days to have internet connection problems, but your post is live now. My email is still acting up, but what can one do? I hear you about the busy holidays. Still, it is a wonderful time of year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!

StratPlayerCJF said...

Merry Christmas, Alex!!! I hope you have a joyful, wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Lord, my brother! And have a tremendous New Year!

I'm hoping to FINALLY see Guardians of the Galaxy over the holiday -- that and the final Hobbit installment. And also hoping to refocus much more of my energy to writing in 2015. :)

I loved the Muppets take on Jingle Bells. Both were a lot of fun! Between the two, though, it's hard to vote against Beaker, Animal, and The Swedish Chef, so I'm giving the edge to that one.

Merry Christmas!

Dianne K. Salerni said...

I LOVE that Han Solo in carbonite shower curtain!!

And (groan) I remember watching that Star Wars Christmas special as a rabid Star Wars fan back in 1978. Even as a kid, I knew it was bad. Heh, heh, heh, I have to inflict this on my own children! Rubs hands in devilish glee.

Unknown said...

yay for the muppets, and mini-alex! :) that image for the Star Wars holiday special has me cracking up--WOW. ha. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas with family and have a wonderful break! :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks for voting, Bish!

Al, 150 eggs, coming up! Thought you would appreciate the photo, my friend.

Christine, I almost posted those Dr. Who lights!

Teresa, Amen.

Jo, thanks, and one dragon egg coming up.

Sarah, thank you!!

Thank you, Robyn.

No worries, MJ! Appreciate the chance to guest post.

Chris, you have to see it! And I'm taking off early Wednesday to go see The Hobbit.

Dianne, no way you could watch it now without RiffTrax's help.

Merry Christmas, all!

Pat Hatt said...

Guardians is sure one to own, got that and watched it again to. #1 gets my vote. Enjoy the christmas week as you lurk less haha

Dixie@dcrelief said...

BOTB: I vote for The Muppets' Jezz version- too funny. I plan to make tons of cookies, apple pies, visit the nieces and nephews! Merry Christmas Alex - thank you so much for participating on my comic photo blog!

A Beer for the Shower said...

A downloadable Rifftrax? YES! Next best thing to seeing it in the theater (stupid theaters not showing it around here).

Also, The Muppets went and played a beautiful song, and then Andrea Bocelli had to just mess it up with that offputting voice of his. One (very sarcastic) vote for The Muppets.

Have a very merry Christmas, my friend! The gifts and the good food are cool and all, but it's awesome to hear that you'll be celebrating Christmas the way it was truly intended to be celebrated.

Unknown said...

Cool gifts for geeks Alex. It would have to be the Dr. Who Yatzee for me! Although that shower curtain is neat as well.

Anonymous said...

AHHHHHHHH! I want a dancing Groot! I'm gonna get one when it comes out. =D

Have a lovely holiday, Alex.

Unknown said...

Have a Great Christmas!!
I could challenge you to a game of Doctor Who Yahtzee. There is a Dalek one also.

Tony Laplume said...

I saw the Holiday Special for the first time three years back. Harrison Ford was predictably awesome in it.

Mason Canyon said...

Oh, I think the shower curtains would be a fun gift but not so sure I could take a shower with it. :) Congrats to those with new books.

Alex, wishing you and your family the very merriest of Christmas joy and a Happy New Year.

ilima said...

I think you should do geek gifts more often. These are awesome. I've been looking for a dancing baby Groot but all I could find was a bobblehead (like the Rocket one you shared). So if you see something, let me know. This Christmas we're going to Hawaii to spend it at my parent's house with a full house of cousins, aunts, and uncles. I can't wait! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

Arlee Bird said...

That shower curtain is outright outre weird. I'd like to know the sales figures on that item.

To me "Jingle Bells" is one of the more obnoxious of all Christmas related songs. I liked it when I was a kid, but it's a silly song for me now. The Boccelli version was schlocky dumb and boring. The first Muppets version was a bit more original and mercifully short. Actually I could have stood less of the second version and more of the first since the first one didn't sound so much like "Jingle Bells".

I vote for the hep-cat Muppet Trio.

Merry Christmas! I will be playing catch-up as I continue to get more behind.

Lee
Tossing It Out

Angela Brown said...

I am so behind on my movies. I'll just have to buy Guardians outright. Far too many people have watched and raved about it. So that's a gift for me :-)

Enjoy your time away from the blogosphere and time with friends and family celebrating, eating and worshipping :-)

ELAdams said...

Merry Christmas! I've asked for the DVD of Guardians of the Galaxy, and I can't wait to watch it again!

Hart Johnson said...

Oh, those are some AWESOME gifts! Though the Han Solo shower curtain makes it look like he is trying to escape whoever is in the shower and Han would never run from me... erm... seriously, though, the Yatzee and cookie jar are amazing. I hope you have a really amazing Christmas Alex! And Happy New Year!

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I think we've watched Guardians a half a dozen time since I bought it on Amazon Prime. The kids are getting some 'themed' gifts this year. They all love the same stuff I do, the bunch of geek that they are.
I have to go with the second version. That was fun even though I'm not a Muppet Fan.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Pat, thanks for voting.

Dixie, vote counted, and will be by later for cookies.

Brandon and Bryan, they have many you can download! And Amen.

David, I accept your challenge!

Tony, and everyone else was awful.

Merry Christmas, Mason!

Ilima, that's a great Christmas! Dancing Groots will be available again at the end of the year. Of course.

Lee, I wish I could've found a longer version.

Angela, you won't regret that purchase.

Hart, that made me chuckle.

Susan, you raised a geek family - good for you!

Liesel K. Hill said...

That borg fridge is awesome. My dad would freakin' love that. The dragon's egg cookie jar is cook too. :D Merry Christmas, Alex! I've got posts scheduled for this whole week, but after that I'm offline until the new year, too. Have a wonderful holiday season, and God bless! :D

Sarah Ahiers said...

I really need to see that Holiday Special

Susan Kane said...

I purchased three ThinkGeek shirts for my geeky math/physics husband. Shirts are so clever.

My last post will be 12/24 even with knowing that few people are roaming the blogsphere. WHO knitted your Ninja persona and dragon! Well done.

S. L. Hennessy said...

Can I have one of each? Those gifts are awesome. And I may or may not have bought a few for my husband already...shhhh.

Natalie Aguirre said...

I love the Dragon Egg. Thanks for the gift ideas. I'm going to be pretty much on break too after today except for a big giveaway hop. Happy Holidays!

Ted Cross said...

Amazing just how different peoples' tastes are. My family just watched Guardians of the Galaxy for the first time yesterday and we didn't like it. Every baddie was cookie cutter and there was almost no character development. Compare it to something like Firefly and the depth of characterization is readily apparent. Oh, and the CGI was often so clearly CGI. Oh for the days of Blade Runner, or at least directors who can judiciously mix CGI with real sets.

Birgit said...

I love the Borg fridge. I have seen that Christmas special with Chewie and it is bad. I saw it when it came out. I plan on being with my family Christmas Eve. We will visit my mom and have a celebration with her during the day of the 24th(last year she was at my brother's place and she became quite anxious not knowing where she was). She feels safe now at her home. In the evening my brother and his daughter come over to our place. The 25th we will spend time with my hubby's family. You have a beautiful and peaceful Christmas and New years. I will listen to the battle of the bands this evening and then decide:)

Cherie Reich said...

Those gifts rock, but I'm still waiting for dancing baby Groot, and I need to buy Guardians of the Galaxy this week so I can see it again.

Thanks for mentioning the release of People of Foxwick! I appreciate it!

Merry Christmas, Alex!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liesel, I want that fridge! Have a blessed Christmas.

Susan, that was done by Father Dragon Al! And he did an amazing job.

Ted, I thought they mixed it very well.

Birgit, sorry you endured it. Enjoy your Christmas!

Cherie, you're welcome!

Belle Wong said...

Happy holidays, Alex! My son is giving me Guardians for Christmas so I have to wait until then to watch it again.

Jenni said...

I enjoyed your post about juggling, Alex. Great tips! I really enjoyed the Muppets clips too, although the second was my favorite. Merry Christmas to you! I'm looking forward to the Christmas eve service at our church and a relaxed day with family.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

The Borg Fridge is awesome. The egg canister looks a bit like a strange pineapple, though.
Have a wonderful Christmas. I'd love to hear one day how you came to accept Christ into your life.

Unknown said...

All kinds of yes on the dragon egg cookie jar!
Thanks for the link to the Star Wars Christmas Special - it's been on my list of bad movies to watch for a while now :)

kaykuala said...

Quite a handful before the break, Alex! I think the IWSG tip is great as book covers ought to be given special attention.Had my book compiled recently and the publishers worked on the covers. It was great as they gave the professional touch.The gifts look to be chic and the shower curtain is a great idea. Enjoy your break Alex and Happy Holidays!

Hank

Emily R. King said...

Gotta love the Muppets! And I get my sister Think Geek gifts every year. Last year she got a Middle Earth map throw blanket, and she's getting the new hardcover of Game of Thrones book this year, I don't remember the title. Lol! She's into it though. :)

Stephen T. McCarthy said...

ALEX ~
Looks like you've got a BOTB shutout on your hands, because I too am voting for the first version - MUPPETS solo! In that second rendition, that Andrea Bonoff woman just totally mucked it up.

Now that first MUPPETS version against THE BARKING DOGS might have been a really tough vote for me to decide on.

~ Stephen

Elizabeth Mueller said...

LOL. Your battle of the bands made me laugh! xD

♥.•*¨Elizabeth¨*•.♥

Empty Nest Insider said...

I just watched part of the Star Wars Holiday Special with Diahann Carroll. I'm really surprised so many stars agreed to appear on this cheesy show. Thanks for the blast from the past, Alex!. I've always liked the Muppets, and I thought they were even better with Andrea Bocellil. It was a very heartwarming rendition of Jingle Bells. Wishing you and your wife a very Merry Christmas, and a happy and healthy New Year!

Julie

Carrie-Anne said...

Is the Star Wars Holiday Special by any chance the one whose first twenty minutes are in unsubtitled Wookie, or is that another equally-terrible Star Wars movie? A movie buff friend, who's so pretentious he calls it cinema instead of even film, told me about that movie.

Leovi said...

Definitely fun Pop Vinyl, pretty!!

Suzanne Furness said...

Wishing you and your family a very happy Christmas, Alex.

DiscConnected said...

Gotta go with the original Muppets classic...now if you'd pitted them against the Bart Simpson version, I don't know what I would have done!

Janie Junebug said...

I can't choose one video over another, but the sound of Andrea Bocelli's voice gave me goose bumps. Merry Christmas. See you next year.

Love,
Janie

Suze said...

Hey, you think it'd be just too weird to have Han Solo cryogenically-frozen in a bar of soap?

Elephant's Child said...

Happy Christmas Alex.
I will be spending some of Christmas morning on a crisis line - and otherwise vegging out with some of the people I love.

Nicki Elson said...

Merry Christmas!

Hey, I just ordered an R2D2 Nutcracker from ThinkGeek for a friend.I'm so excited!

Congrats to the Ninja Army on their relases and successes. Er, not so much congrats to Lucas on that holiday special. Oh, the horror.

mooderino said...

I have no need for that shower curtain and yet...

L.G. Keltner said...

Thanks for mentioning my blogfest! I want that Borg fridge, the shower curtain, and the Doctor Who Yahtzee. Such cool gifts! Merry Christmas!

Andrew Leon said...

My boys are in the process of watching the special, right now, but they have to do it in bits and pieces. I think it's kind of painful for them and, yet, they have been quoting the cooking thing in it for days.

And I see you changed your comments, too. (Stupid Google)

Karen M. Peterson said...

I've spent HOURS on Think Geek's website and I totally missed that Borg fridge. That's awesome!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Belle, that was nice of him!

Jenni, that sounds nice.

Lynda, I'll have to do that someday.

Jamie, the only way to watch it is with RiffTrax.

Hank, you have a book coming out? Awesome!

Emily, you're a good sister.

Stephen, thanks for the laugh.

Julie, maybe they held family members hostage?

Carrie-Anne, that's it!

Suze, that's a great idea!

Elephant's Child, that's a wonderful thing to do.

Andrew, yeah, I hate word verification more...

Liz A. said...

I heard about the Star Wars Christmas special years ago, and I was wondering why it was suddenly a thing again. Now I know. I don't think I saw it the first time, so I'll skip it again.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I want a Borg fridge.

I remember watching that Star Special. It was bad.

I like the first Muppet video. Animal!

Robin said...

I took the time and read the comments. Hilarious. Interesting to see what Geek Gifts light someone up. Of course, Al wants the dragon egg....:)

Your BOTB... oh Alex. ::shakes head:: I really don't know how to vote on this one. I guess I'll buck the system and vote for the second one. I don't want to see them shut out and I don't feel strongly one way or the other. They both made me laugh (and cringe) for different reasons...

Merry Christmas!!!

Michelle Wallace said...

Off to M.J's place - need to check out some juggling tips.
Muppets and Andrea Bocelli? Very clever combo.
Bocelli's voice can move me to tears...
Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas, Alex.

Theresa Milstein said...

Ha! I love the Han Solo shower curtain.
Medeia's cover is too cool.

Maurice Mitchell said...

A great list Alsx, especially the RiffTrax and my favorite opera singer.

Unknown said...

I want the Borg fridge! See you in January, Alex!

Anonymous said...

Cool gift ideas and I prefer the Boccelli song.

Thank you for sharing my book news.

J E Oneil said...

If the dragon's not included, what's the point? :)

Truedessa said...

Hi Alex,

I guess I will go with the second video as Andrea Bocelli has an amazing voice and you still get the Muppets as well. I wanted to thank you for all your support at my blog. I always enjoy reading your comments. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas. You have big heart and kind soul. I am glad our paths have crossed in the journey of life. I will see you lurking..smiling..

Wishing you light and love...

Nick Wilford said...

Never heard of this Holiday Special but it surely can't be worse than the Phantom Menace!

Love the Borg fridge.

Ava Quinn said...

It's a tough choice for the battle of the bands. I adore the Muppets. Beaker is one of my favorites, but PePe is a big runner up.
And I think I want the Han Solo shower curtain, but when I showed it to my oldest Urchin-who loves original Star Wars-she was concerned that the carbonite frozen Han would see her naked. So I guess I'm gonna have to pass.

Have a beautiful holiday!

Roland D. Yeomans said...

An evil friend bought me a shower curtain with Norman Bates striking out at me in his mother's dress and wig. It added a new dimension to my shower, I will tell you!!

Christmas is a special time for me, too. I cannot stay mum during this season on my blog. I hope you enjoy this Season with family and friends. All my friends have died or are dying so this will be a solitary season for me locally.

I have GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY on my Kindle Fire HDX, so I watch snippets of it at work during my few break times. Have only happy surprises this Christmas! :-)

Sherry Ellis said...

Those are cool ideas for gifts. We haven't seen Guardians of the Galaxy, so I might just get one of those DVDs. I should go read the tips on how to juggle it all, because right now, I'm dropping all kinds of balls - especially the ones having to do with writing. Music is taking over!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liz, watch only if you are really desperate.

Robin, they actually have quite a few votes.

Medeia, you're welcome.

Truedessa, thank you! I hope you take my often snarky comments as a gesture of friendship. Very glad I followed your link from Pat's blog!

Nick, it's A LOT worse...

Ava, that's funny.

Roland, that's twisted. And very sorry you will be alone! We can't have that.

Holy Ghost Writer said...

I have to go with #2. Guardians is such a good movie. Merry Christmas

Huntress said...

I'm a sucker for geek stuff. Especially the Dragon egg. Highlighting Melanie on Unicorn Bell tomorrow as one of my Quiet Treasures. Loved her book Erron.

mail4rosey said...

I'm going with the first Muppets video as my fave of the two. :) The dice shaker for the Dr. Who Yahtzee set is pretty cool.

Sandra Cox said...

Congrats on being on the most anticipated list. That's wonderful, Alex. Congrats to all the new releases. Your gift list is a hoot, especially the Hans Shower Curtain:) Hope your Christmas is the best ever.

Birgit said...

Can I say that your 2 picks put a nice big smile on my face. I so enjoyed both of them but we are dealing with the Muppets and they are genius! I have to go with the first one. I love animal and I believe that is the Swedish chef in the Russian hat which I own one like that but in dark brown:) This was so fun and Christmassy

Kimberly Gabriel said...

I love your geek gifts! Those are incredible. I kind of like the Borg Fridge. Ha! I also just saw Guardians of the Galaxy this weekend. It was really, really good! I rewatched several parts of it. Have a wonderful Christmas Alex!

Karen Lange said...

Congrats to all the authors of new releases! Thanks for keeping us up to date, Alex. Off to check out your guest posts. Enjoy your break!

Helena said...

Part of me wants to see the Star Wars special, but the other part knows I'll just cringe all the way through it. And hey, I remember those bad old 70's commercials! As for the gifts--I thing I wanna hold out for the dancing Groot. That was such a nice touch at the end of the movie.

A very Merry Christmas to you and your family, Alex. Peace and love.

dolorah said...

I want the dragon egg cookie jar!!! And the Borg Fridge. The shower curtain would creep me out though. Marvelous geek gifts.

The Muppets Jingle Bells battle was so much fun. Hard to choose a favorite; but the first one was just funner. I think.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Alex, and to your wife also. May peace, joy and love be your's throughout the year.

Anonymous said...

Way behind with my comments, enjoyed your post, would take too long to pin point any thing as all was excellent.
Happy Christmas to you and your family and thanks for help and support.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sandra, thanks.

Birgit, can't go wrong with Animal.

Helena, you will cringe.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Anonymous said...

Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda... as we say here in Snowdonia.

LuAnn @ BackPorchervations said...

We pretty much saw "Guardians" opening week (if not opening day). My kids asked me about my favorite character. I said, "Groot." I now have three tee shirts: one with all the characters, one that says, "I AM GROOT" and one with Dancing Groot. *happy sigh*

If you can use a co-host who is much more accomplished at the insecure part than the writing part, and are still in need, I would love to volunteer.

Enjoyed the Bocelli-Muppet vid. :O)

Merry Christmas to you and yours, Alex!

Chemist Ken said...

"Commercials from 1978...." Man, I can't believe it's been that long since Star Wars first came out. Makes me feel old.

I can co-host on any of those months. Just let me know.

Ken

Mary Aalgaard said...

I love the Andrea Boccelli version. I think I may buy the Guardians of the Galaxy movie for my boys for Christmas. Merry Christmas!

Yolanda Renée said...

We saw the Guardians of the Galaxy this weekend and really enjoyed it! I'd love a dragons egg, but it has to contain the dragon, or whats the use?

Have a wonderful Christmas!

Melissa said...

What cool gifts! That shower curtain is too much. LOL
The Borg fridge is my favorite. ;)

Unknown said...

A fun post, I would love some of those things! Happy Christmas, Alex and a successful New Year.

Kirsten said...

I just love Think Geek! I got a Higgs boson coffee mug, but it was tough to choose from all the fun stuff for sale. :)
Merry, merry Christmas, Alex!

Cathy Kennedy said...

What a fun #BOTB song! I love both versions, but I think I'm gonna pick The Muppets & Andrea rendition. It was not only the funniest, but the best done. Jesus is the great gift to mankind. We should worship and adore Him throughout the whole year, instead of one month out of 12. The world would be a far better place, wouldn't it? Anywho, I hope you and yours have the merriest Christmas ever and in 2015 may blessings of good health, much happiness, and success in all things follow you! :)

Shell Flower said...

Have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy the time with family. I will get to see all of my family except my brother this year, but that's still pretty good as we don't always get together. Love that Han Solo shower curtain. LOL. Some great book releases, too.

Gwen Gardner said...

You're everywhere today! I'd love the Doctor Who Yahtzee. I'd be glad to co-host in February, you can put me down. Merry Christmas, Alex!

Chrys Fey said...

That Han Solo in Carbonite Shower Curtain is hilarious! I wouldn't feel write about using the bathroom or taking a shower with that thing hanging there though. HAHA!

I'd like to volunteer to be a co-host for January if you still have openings. :)

Merry Christmas, Alex!!!

Patricia Stoltey said...

A merry and blessed Christmas to you, Alex. And I hope your 2015 is the best year ever.

Brian Miller said...

the best part of the holiday special, is the introduction of boba fett...thus i give it grace...cause he rocks....
i totally need me a borg fridge too...that would be way cool.....hope you have a great christmas man....

Unknown said...

Thanks for the shout out Alex! I have to get one of those shower curtains!

Dean K Miller said...

Saw a Barbie and Ken "Star Trek" boxed set in a local mountain town. The rest of the crew were card board figures, and dang it, Barbie wasn't wearing security team red. Yup, I'll be downloading the RiffTrax video later today.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - well most of that passed me by .. but I'm off to visit you at MJs .. and I've been to the IWSG post ... I saw some ancient tv from the 60s and 70s at a talk we went to on Monday .. incredible stuff ... as you say completely ghastly now .. but that's where it all started.

Thanks for all you do for us .. and have a happy and peaceful Christmas with family and friends .. cheers Hilary

Kristin Smith said...

Those are some great gift ideas for sci-fi and fantasy fans! I think my boys would enjoy that blaster gun. :)

Merry Christmas to you, Alex, and enjoy your time with friends and family. It's a wonderful time of year, isn't it?

kjmckendry said...

There's some really cute gifts there, so much more interesting than a gift card! I'm so impressed by all the books out by the Ninja Army! Congrats to everyone.
I love the Andrea Bocelli version, it's adorable and his voice is heavenly.
Merry Christmas to you too, enjoy your holiday!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

LuAnn, thank you!

Thanks, Ken, and I also feel old...

Kathy, well said and Amen!

Gwen, thanks!

Chrys, appreciate it.

Melanie, you're welcome!

Dean, that's funny.

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Nicola said...

'Frohe Weihnachten' Alex. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and continued success throughout the new year.

The Happy Whisk said...

Being that you're everywhere all the time online, do you have a problem unplugging? Or do you like the time away? Do you twitch? Does foam start to ooze from your ears and feet?

Happy 800th post, Alex.

SC Author said...

Merry Christmas!!! 800 posts - WOW!! You've done so much for the community in those posts :)

Sandra Cox said...

Hi, Alex. What does co-hosting entail or do you have enough?

Liza said...

Wishing you the best of Christmas Alex, in your heart and in your home.

Stephanie Faris said...

That Borg Fridge is a little creepy. I'm off to check out the guest posts. I especially could use the one about juggling writer responsibilities!

DMS said...

I have never heard of nor seen the Star Wars Holiday Special. I am definitely curious though. :)

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas. Enjoy your time away from the computer.
~Jess

Tammy Theriault said...

I'm definitely not into Muppets anymore, so I say neither! LOL. But I will say Star Wars is making it big yet again!

Anonymous said...

Re the Battle of the Bands: I liked the version with Andrea Bocelli, with the Muppets making their wisecracks and everything. But, come on, how often do you see Beaker, the Swedish Chef, and Animal as a jazz trio? I'll go with the much shorter and loonier first version.

John Holton
The Sound Of One Hand Typing

Cynthia said...

Alex, I hope you have a wonderful holiday. I haven't seen the Star Wars holiday special before...but speaking of the Muppets, I remember this one holiday special I saw years ago that featured the Muppets and the Sesame Street characters getting together for the holidays. I don't know what it's called, but I'd love to find it on DVD somewhere.

SittieCates said...

I like the Pop Vinyl. And the Game of Thrones would be great, too. Got some friends who would love that.

Happy holidays, Alex!

Sheila Siler said...

Merry Christmas! I love all Muppets - but I vote for the Andrea Bocelli - that's classic Muppet action!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Ivy, I won't have a problem unplugging next week!

Sandra, I could use someone in February and March!

Jess, only watch it with RiffTrax's help.

John, that one amused me.

Cynthia, I'll have to look for that.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Suzanne said...

Hi Alex, happy to co-host Feb or March (Ella still home from school in Jan) if you still need someone, although with 100+ replies I'm probably a little late! x

TBM said...

Heck I don't care if the dragon isn't included, but does it come with the cookies? Happy holidays to you and your loved ones. See ya in 2015.

Leovi said...

Charming and funny Christmas music - Muppet style!

Al Penwasser said...

Most things from the 70s were horrific. Why should the Star Wars Holiday Special be different?

Anonymous said...

Hi Alex, Thanks so much for the mention. I appreciate it. My co-worker who is a huge geek, introduced me to Think Geek last week. I can spend hours on that site. I finally got to show her something. Star Wars Christmas Special. Out of control. haha.

Donna McDine said...

Adore the Muppets! Those geek gifts are definitely a blast from the past!

Merry Christmas!

Tyrean Martinson said...

Loved the first Jingle Bells with Beaker and Animal - two of my favorite Muppets. :)
I have a few of those books loaded and ready to read . . . one of these days. :)

Merry Christmas, Alex! Have a wonderful celebration with your family!

LD Masterson said...

Hands down - The Muppet and Bocelli version. So much fun. Lots of cool geek stuff for my favorite geeks. Thanks.

Wishing you a Merry and Blessed Christmas.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Suzanne, I could use help in March!

Al, very true!

Sydney, you're welcome.

Merry Christmas Donna and Tyrean!

M Pax said...

I'd like a Tardis. I think it's very Christmassy. Beware of the aliens next week! There's always an invasion at Christmas. I can help with IWSG in January or February.

Heather M. Gardner said...

I had that feeling. My comment was eaten by Blogger. There was a hiccup when I hit the publish button and I didn't check back to see if it worked.

ALEX!

I LOVE the Han Solo shower curtain and the BOY asked for GoTG from Santa! Thank goodness!

I hope you have a lovely holiday!

If you don't get enough people for IWSG you know I'll help you out.

**LOVE** HUGS**KISSES**
Heather

Liz Blocker said...

Oh man, the Han Solo in Carbonite Shower Curtain is AMAZING. And the Borg fridge. If only I knew about these things when I was in college...

Merry Christmas, Alex! I hope you have a beautiful holiday with your family. And if you need more people for IWSG, I can help, too.

farawayeyes said...

Sorry it's taken me so long to get around here. I'm just now today making my BOTB rounds. I definitely vote for the Second Muppet version. Definitely two very diverse personalities to be working together. Ha!

Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Sandra Cox said...

I bet the hubby would like the Game of Thrones dragon canister:)

Shannon Lawrence said...

I haven't watched the Star Wars special, but I had a children's book set on the Wookie planet as a kid that I have fond memories of. Wish I still had it. Then again, I wish I still had many of my toys and books, which would be worth money now. Who knew? Have a wonderful Christmas! I'm happy to help with IWSG if you ever need, and am open Jan. or Mar.

The Happy Whisk said...

Good to hear, Alex. Happy Christmas and boogie boogie.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for mentioning us in your gift idea list!
From John popvinyl.net

Donna K. Weaver said...

What? I have to choose between Muppet renditions?! I love them both. It's really hard because I'm such a Beeker fansgirl. Love that Borg fridge.

Merry Christmas!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Mary!

Heather, sorry your first comment was eaten.

Thanks, Shannon! And I know, some of those old toys would be worth money now.

Merry Christmas all!

Julie Dao said...

I have Guardians of the Galaxy sitting at home, waiting to be wrapped up for my brother! It was his favorite movie of the year. I'm sure you already have people in January and February, but if you need another co-host for March, let me know!

Cherie Colyer said...

We watched Guardians of the Galaxy last weekend. And I bought a copy for my dad. I think he'll enjoy it. Rocket's pretty cool. He'd go nicely with that Dancing Groot. ;)

Julie Flanders said...

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, Alex!! I would be happy to co-host the IWSG in February. I plan to get back on the blogging horse in January and always enjoy co-hosting.
The Han Solo shower curtain is creepy as can be LOL.

Sherry Ellis said...

I would have never expected Bocelli to be singing with the Muppets! Have a wonderful Christmas, Alex!

Jeff Chapman said...

Merry Christmas, Alex. You've reminded me that I need to watch the Muppet's Christmas Carol.

msmariah said...

Great finds Alex! You always find the coolest stuff on the net! I seriously want that dragon egg cookie jar. I hope you and mini Alex have a wonderful ninja Christmas!!

Sandra Cox said...

Hi Alex, speaking of unusual gifts, the hh managed to find some criminal justice band aids for our son who's a criminal justice instructor:)

Jack said...

Enjoy your Christmas break. It is a great time to spend with family, an even better time to remember Jesus' gift to us.

Mason T. Matchak said...

The first version of "Jingle Bells" wins purely because anytime you get Animal, Beaker, and the Swedish Chef doing something together, it's pure awesome. ^_^ And oddly enough, two books I really want to read are coming out on January 6th, just in time to miss Christmas! I'll be rereading the books that come before them until then.

Unknown said...

Does the "Guardians of the Galaxy Star Lord Blaster" blast Star Lords? I'm glad you liked the movie, I'm really looking forward to it!

Congrats to Cherie, Medeia, Sydney, and Melanie!

I hope you and your wife enjoy wonderful Christmas and New Year's celebrations! :)

Kittie Howard said...

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.

cleemckenzie said...

I plan to kick back and watch all of the Star Wars over the holidays. Popcorn mandatory.

If you still need a co-host for Jan. I'm here. Let me know.

Merry Christmas and a joyful new year.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Julie, I do!

Cherie, if you can find one...

Thanks, Julie! Interested in April?

Sandra, that's priceless.

Jack, Amen!

Mason, it is awesome.

Thanks, Lee! I'm good to go until April now.

Merry Christmas, everyone! Dancing Groots under every tree.

Anonymous said...

Alex, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

SK Anthony said...

Those are some cool gift ideas!!!!

Have a wonderful Christmas, Alex. See you on the 5th ;)

Krisztina Clifton said...

Okay I'm kind of loving the Game of Thrones egg canister. I must be a geek! Have a Merry Christmas!!

klahanie said...

Hey human, Alex,

Your wait is over. Yes indeed, I've finally managed to get here after my recent pooping extravaganza! Any geek type gifts are just pawfect for my human, Gary.

Oh, by the way, if you want to go back to the pop up window, I was informed by "Elephant's Child" that you can ignore the verification rubbish. She was correct about that.

You, as paw usual, seem to be all over the place and that makes you "effectively human."

A pawsitive Christmas to you and your loved ones.

Pawsitive wishes,

Penny :)

Murees Dupè said...

I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a great New Year! Wishing you many blessings.

Shah Wharton said...

Geek stuff - shower curtain was a winner, although I doubt it would ... coordinate. :)

I will volunteer for any co-host :) Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year! See you in a couple of weeks.
shahwharton.com

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Sorry I'm late. DH fell and broke his wrist in two places. I'm back to cooking. BooHoo. Do like the blaster idea for a gift. And the book covers are awesome. Happy for everyone.

Intangible Hearts said...

Merry Christmas Alex. Saw your cover on the Where to Find Great Covers post and I think your covers are magnificent.

Ella said...

I love the Borg Fridge! Thank you, Alex for these great gift ideas~ Amazing! I just ordered the Dr. Who Yahtzee-too cool!

Merry Christmas to you and Mrs. AC!! I will check out all your links-I have missed blogging! This is such a great community and I am thankful for all your insight, humor and music suggestions~ You always rock ;D

Kim Van Sickler said...

Visited you over at M.J.'s blog; laughed at the Muppets/Bocelli pairing; would want the Hans Solo shower curtain if I had a shower without glass doors, signed up for L.G.'s Snarky Blogfest, and would be happy to co-host IWSG for you in February or March. Happy Holidays to you and your family, Alex!

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the links! I'll go check them out. The Han Solo shower curtain made me laugh. That's pretty neat. I love the original three Star Wars movies. Not so much, the others. And as much as I like Andrea Bocelli's music, I'd have to choose the first Jingle Bells with Beaker, Animal, and the Swedish Chef, three of my favorite Muppets. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your family.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Gary, Merry Christmas to you and Penny, and good to know about the pop-up window.

Shah, thank you!

Ella, you rock! And we've missed you.

Thanks, Kim!

Lori, agree with you on the Star Wars films.

Merry Christmas to all!

Leovi said...

Yes, the shower curtain is really amazing, probably there is also another frame with Psycho !!

Cindy said...

That Borg Fridge is awesome. Merry Christmas, Alex!

Sandra Cox said...

Hope you're enjoying your Sunday:)

Trisha said...

I have one friend in particular who would probably love all of those gift suggestions up there ;) I wish everyone was so easy to buy for.

I hope you and your family & friends have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, Alex!

I'm off to check out some of the links you shared now :)

Carrie Butler said...

Oh, I'm a huge fan of Think Geek! I could spend hours browsing that site. :)

T.F. Walsh said...

Wishing you a fabulous Christmas, Alex... :)

Catherine Stine said...

You've got loads of cool stuff on your blog! I just got back from Mariah Carey's Christmas concert in New York, and she is really into Christmas--and sang with a gospel choir and the whole bit. Big fun! Happy Holidays to you and yours.

SpacerGuy said...

Guardians of the Galaxy is an entertaining movie. The weasel like character is funny. Merry Christmas Alex.

Yolanda Renée said...

Finished book 3 and now trying to finish the year on a positive note by getting back to the basics. I would love to help with the IWSG anytime you need. Just holler. I've tried to comment on a few of your blogs but got that nasty virus warning and everything shut down, this looks like it will work though!

We watched the Guardians of the Galaxy last week and really enjoyed it! And I'd love a dragon's egg, but only if it came with a dragon! :)

Merry Christmas!

Thank you so much for your support this year, it's so very, very appreciated!

Leovi said...

Yes, I love Muppets Jingle Bells !!

Unknown said...

Thanks, Alex, worked out the 'embedded' bit.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

The Star Wars special sounds terribly fascinating. And I mean terribly!
Love you, Alex. Thanks for another year of your support and friendship. The best of holidays to you, Mrs. Ninja, and Mini-Alex. xo

Maria McKenzie said...

Wow! Such cool and geeky gifts:). I love the Han Solo shower curtain!

Sandra Cox said...

Happy Monday, Alex:)

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Congratulations on "most anticipated"!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The Armchair Squid said...

I watched the Star Wars Christmas special when it was on TV in '78. I watched it again recently - so, so bad...

I love the geek gifts.

Merry Christmas, Alex!

Rachna Chhabria said...

Hi Alex, I love the geek gifts. Wondering if someone will send me one of them :)
I can co-host in January.
Definitely want to read how my Ninja Captain juggles his writing, blogging and work, so will be hopping over to M.J's blog.
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year to you and your wife.

msmariah said...

You're right! I've updated my best list to reflect 'Guardians of the Galaxy.' I really did like that film.

Jennifer Lane said...

Thanks for the links to the writing tips and cover artists! Merry Christmas to all Ninjas.

kimlajevardi.com said...

I like the geek gifts, but I absolutely LOVE the Muppets' songs. :) Have a very Merry Chirstmas, Alex! See you in the new year.

Robyn Campbell said...

Alex, that shower curtain is to DIE for. LOVE! But I do not remember ever hearing about that special on Chewbacca's family. What in the world were those famous stars thinking about? Horrible. But I guess that goes to prove that even Lucas can have a flop. Love BOTH Muppet versions. But I am a sucker for the Muppets. I hope you and Mrs. Captain have a most beautiful Christmas, Alex. See you in the new year.

mail4rosey said...

Just here to say Merry Christmas. :)

kaykuala said...

Yes Alex, I have two books to date. But these were just compilation of my Blog postings (minus the internet downloaded images) Since I write every night I thought it should be retained in book form with a specific ISBN #. Unlike your bestsellers I just extended them to the publishers without anything extra written. No big deal really. Here's the link for the first book:

http://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Poetry-Prose-Hank-Kaykuala-ebook/dp/B00PHLATLC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417413420&sr=8-1&keywords=B00PHLATLC

The other book will be made available on the internet by the publishers shortly. Here's wishing you Merry Christmas and happy hols. And also to thank you for being so helpful in 2014 and anticipating a grand presence again in the ensuing year. Gratefully!

Hank

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Trisha, I'm that easy to buy for.

Catherine, great way to kick off Christmas.

Yolanda, sorry about the virus warning!

Robyn, it is terrible.

Squid, saw it in 1978 as well.

Thanks, Rachna. Good to go now.

Robyn, he flopped hard.

Hank, that's awesome - thanks for the book link!

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