As it's Halloween, I thought I would write about a DVD box-set that I bought recently - Critters 1-4.
I first saw Critters and its sequel, Critters 2, when I was in junior school. I hadn't seen the last two films in the series and saw the DVDs on sale for £4.99 so thought it would be fun to watch them all in succession.
Critters (1986)
It's pretty obvious that these films were made to cash in on the success of Gremlins which was released two years earlier.
The movie is about a small farm town that is invaded by aliens which look like mutant hedgehogs.
I don't really know which genre the movie falls into as it has elements of comedy, horror and science fiction.
What I do know is this film has aged. The special effects look extremely dated twenty-three years later but it was fun to see it again.
One of the funniest moments in the film is when one of the Critters is trying to talk to an E.T. toy. The underlying comedy in this is the mother in this movie was also the mother in E.T.
Critters 2 : The Main Course (1988)
It can be argued that Critters was a rip-off of Gremlins. With this movie there is no argument - this is definitely a Gremlins knock-off!
The Critters are funnier in this one which is extremely similar to the monsters in Gremlins.
As a child, I remembered preferring this film to its predecessor. I'm changing my stance now after all these years.
This one is not as good as the original but it was still fun to see it again.
Critters 3 (1991)
If Critters 1 and 2 were rip-offs of Gremlins then this one is certainly a rip-0ff of Gremlins 2.
This film is set inside an apartment block where the Critters eggs have hatched and are attacking the residents of the building. I found it similar to the sequel to Gremlins because that film was also set inside a building rather than wreaking havoc throughout a town.
I hadn't seen this one before. It had a little bit more gore than the other two but it also had a lot more comedy, too. A weird combination if you ask me.
What was interesting about this film is a very young Leonardo DiCaprio plays one of the main characters.
I wonder if he's available to appear in another Critters movie.
Nah.
Critters 4 (1992)
Oh. My.
This was like a cocktail of Star Wars, Alien, Gremlins and Critters and tasted sick!
The film was set on a space station where two of the only two Critter eggs in existence have hatched.
This one was the worst of the lot and I am glad that space station blew up in the end. It made sure there wasn't a Critters 5.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Strangers
Have you ever bumped into an old friend and ignored them?
It happened to me today.
We both looked at each other in the shop but both of us didn't acknowledge the other.
I should have walked back and said 'hi'.
I know I'll be kicking myself for weeks now because it had been six or seven years since I last spoke to her.
It happened to me today.
We both looked at each other in the shop but both of us didn't acknowledge the other.
I should have walked back and said 'hi'.
I know I'll be kicking myself for weeks now because it had been six or seven years since I last spoke to her.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
iRony
I added the new Morrissey CD - Swords - to my iTune library the other day and noticed a spelling error in the title field.
The song 'Because Of My Poor Education' was titled 'Because Of My Poor Eduaction'. I at first thought that it was a play on words and the typo was deliberate but then had a look at the back of the album and noticed 'Education' was spelt correctly.
Of all the song titles they could have messed up, they chose the one that made it hysterical.
The song 'Because Of My Poor Education' was titled 'Because Of My Poor Eduaction'. I at first thought that it was a play on words and the typo was deliberate but then had a look at the back of the album and noticed 'Education' was spelt correctly.
Of all the song titles they could have messed up, they chose the one that made it hysterical.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Hulk Hogan Signs With TNA
Hulk Hogan has signed for TNA, BROTHER!!!!
The above quote is what I sent to two of my friends via text message just a few minutes ago.
Hulk Hogan has announced that he is to sign with Total Nonstop Action.
Crazy news.
I never thought The Hulkster would join TNA.
In recent years, he had used them as leverage as a way to secure a deal or two from WWE so today's news is surprising.
I don't know the complete details of this deal because the Wrestling Observer website is really slow at this moment and I am finding it hard to open up a few pages. What I do know is the announcement was made at Madison Square Garden this afternoon.
Hulk Hogan - the brand name - will give TNA a much needed kick in the rear and could be the signing that propels them into the mainstream similar to how Hogan's 1994 arrival in World Championship Wrestling generated a lot of interest for that company.
Of course, Hogan is a lot older than he was back then. He's also had numerous hip and knee surgeries as well as facing a costly divorce so TNA won't be getting the Hogan of old.
I think it could be enough, though.
Eric Bischoff is also a part of this deal. it will be interesting to see whether he and Hogan secure booking power now that they have signed.
The current booker - Vince Russo - has lengthy history with both men and I expect some political tension backstage with these three together.
The next days, weeks and months are going to be quite interesting indeed.
The above quote is what I sent to two of my friends via text message just a few minutes ago.
Hulk Hogan has announced that he is to sign with Total Nonstop Action.
Crazy news.
I never thought The Hulkster would join TNA.
In recent years, he had used them as leverage as a way to secure a deal or two from WWE so today's news is surprising.
I don't know the complete details of this deal because the Wrestling Observer website is really slow at this moment and I am finding it hard to open up a few pages. What I do know is the announcement was made at Madison Square Garden this afternoon.
Hulk Hogan - the brand name - will give TNA a much needed kick in the rear and could be the signing that propels them into the mainstream similar to how Hogan's 1994 arrival in World Championship Wrestling generated a lot of interest for that company.
Of course, Hogan is a lot older than he was back then. He's also had numerous hip and knee surgeries as well as facing a costly divorce so TNA won't be getting the Hogan of old.
I think it could be enough, though.
Eric Bischoff is also a part of this deal. it will be interesting to see whether he and Hogan secure booking power now that they have signed.
The current booker - Vince Russo - has lengthy history with both men and I expect some political tension backstage with these three together.
The next days, weeks and months are going to be quite interesting indeed.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
NASCAR Raw
I'm growing tired with the guest host concept on WWE Raw.
It's not the entire idea that bothers me as there is potential to bring in major celebrities that know what they are doing and it can draw in an audience.
Last night's episode featured two NASCAR drivers who looked so out of place in the WWE environment.
The one driver - I can't be bothered to look up his name - looked like he was suffering from stage fright and delivered his promos in a robotic manner that you could tell he had been fed lines before going out. It seemed like he was saying what he had to say but didn't have any feeling for it.
Calling Kofi Kingston 'Kofi Johnson' didn't help, either.
Next week's guest hosts won't suffer before the live audience as it is going to be Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne.
What does concern me about these two is whether they know anything about the product, If not, we're in for another train wreck.
On a crazy train.
It's not the entire idea that bothers me as there is potential to bring in major celebrities that know what they are doing and it can draw in an audience.
Last night's episode featured two NASCAR drivers who looked so out of place in the WWE environment.
The one driver - I can't be bothered to look up his name - looked like he was suffering from stage fright and delivered his promos in a robotic manner that you could tell he had been fed lines before going out. It seemed like he was saying what he had to say but didn't have any feeling for it.
Calling Kofi Kingston 'Kofi Johnson' didn't help, either.
Next week's guest hosts won't suffer before the live audience as it is going to be Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne.
What does concern me about these two is whether they know anything about the product, If not, we're in for another train wreck.
On a crazy train.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Rise & Fall Of WCW
As it is the anniversary of the day I went to see my first American wrestling show - WCW's Halloween Havoc 1993 tour - I think it's the right time to share my thoughts on the latest WWE DVD which chronicles the history of the promotion.
If you're looking for the honest history of the Rise and Fall of WCW you're not going to get it in this DVD.
Don't get me wrong - it's worth seeing. I just feel you don't get the full story of how World Championship Wrestling rose to prominence before its implosion in early 2001.
It's impossible to tell the story in the time dedicated to the documentary portion of this DVD-set but there were some interesting things in the piece.
I was surprised Bill Goldberg took part as I was always under the impression he was on bad terms with WWE after he left the company in 2004.
What was also ridiculous was the inclusion of Mike Graham. If you were to believe everything this guy said, it was he who came up with all of WCW's winning ideas such as bringing Hulk Hogan in during the mid-90s. He played a small part in WCW but his braggadocios statements should have made the editing room floor.
The best part of the set is the two other discs containing some of the best matches the company gave us during its life. It's a shame we couldn't have had more.
They say whoever wins a war gets to write the history books - this DVD is the proof to the rule.
If you're looking for the honest history of the Rise and Fall of WCW you're not going to get it in this DVD.
Don't get me wrong - it's worth seeing. I just feel you don't get the full story of how World Championship Wrestling rose to prominence before its implosion in early 2001.
It's impossible to tell the story in the time dedicated to the documentary portion of this DVD-set but there were some interesting things in the piece.
I was surprised Bill Goldberg took part as I was always under the impression he was on bad terms with WWE after he left the company in 2004.
What was also ridiculous was the inclusion of Mike Graham. If you were to believe everything this guy said, it was he who came up with all of WCW's winning ideas such as bringing Hulk Hogan in during the mid-90s. He played a small part in WCW but his braggadocios statements should have made the editing room floor.
The best part of the set is the two other discs containing some of the best matches the company gave us during its life. It's a shame we couldn't have had more.
They say whoever wins a war gets to write the history books - this DVD is the proof to the rule.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
American Sports And Soccer Betting 2009 : Week 7
I didn't think it would be this bad when I started off in September.
At certain points during the games on Sunday, I was thinking whether it would be wise to abort posting my picks and end it where it is. I don't want people following my selections and getting stung.
It was close but not close enough to be a winning weekend.
I'm still going to keep on for the time being. I may sound like a degenerate gambler here but all I need is one good week to even things up.
Week 6 Results
1) Florida Atlantic -1
2) Navy -6.5
3) Udinese
4) Wolfsburg v M'Gladbach OVER 2.5 goals
5) Brondby
6) Kansas City +6
7) Carolina @ Tampa Bay OVER 39 points total
8) St. Louis @ Jacksonville OVER 43 points total
9) Seattle -3
10) Union Berlin v Greuther Furth OVER 2.5 goals
11) Denver +3.5
Week 6 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £8.65
Profit/Loss = -11.71
Overall Stats
Stake = £142.63
Returns = £93.81
Profit/Loss = -48.82
Wins = 30
Losses = 36
Pushes = 1
Strike-Rate = 45.5%
Week 7 Picks
Please note - this week's bet is being placed at williamhill.com
1) Real Madrid to score in both halves (Spanish La Liga)
2) St Pauli (German Bundesliga II)
3) Juventus (Italian Serie A)
4) Manchester City (English Premier League)
5) Valladolid v Deportivo OVER 2.5 goals (Spanish La Liga)
6) West Ham v Arsenal OVER 2.5 goals (English Premier League)
7) San Diego -5 (NFL)
8) Tampa Bay to score OVER 14.5 points (NFL)
9) San Francisco @ Houston OVER 44 points total (NFL)
10) Chicago -0 (NFL)
11) Dallas -4.5 (NFL)
£20.36 Block bet (doubles upwards at 1p a line)
At certain points during the games on Sunday, I was thinking whether it would be wise to abort posting my picks and end it where it is. I don't want people following my selections and getting stung.
It was close but not close enough to be a winning weekend.
I'm still going to keep on for the time being. I may sound like a degenerate gambler here but all I need is one good week to even things up.
Week 6 Results
1) Florida Atlantic -1
2) Navy -6.5
3) Udinese
4) Wolfsburg v M'Gladbach OVER 2.5 goals
5) Brondby
6) Kansas City +6
7) Carolina @ Tampa Bay OVER 39 points total
8) St. Louis @ Jacksonville OVER 43 points total
9) Seattle -3
10) Union Berlin v Greuther Furth OVER 2.5 goals
11) Denver +3.5
Week 6 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £8.65
Profit/Loss = -11.71
Overall Stats
Stake = £142.63
Returns = £93.81
Profit/Loss = -48.82
Wins = 30
Losses = 36
Pushes = 1
Strike-Rate = 45.5%
Week 7 Picks
Please note - this week's bet is being placed at williamhill.com
1) Real Madrid to score in both halves (Spanish La Liga)
2) St Pauli (German Bundesliga II)
3) Juventus (Italian Serie A)
4) Manchester City (English Premier League)
5) Valladolid v Deportivo OVER 2.5 goals (Spanish La Liga)
6) West Ham v Arsenal OVER 2.5 goals (English Premier League)
7) San Diego -5 (NFL)
8) Tampa Bay to score OVER 14.5 points (NFL)
9) San Francisco @ Houston OVER 44 points total (NFL)
10) Chicago -0 (NFL)
11) Dallas -4.5 (NFL)
£20.36 Block bet (doubles upwards at 1p a line)
Saturday, October 24, 2009
This Is It & The Postal Strike
Postal strike? What postal strike?

I got the Michael Jackson This Is It album yesterday.

I got the Michael Jackson This Is It album yesterday.
It's released in shops on Monday and I guess HMV posted them earlier than they usually do in order to ensure they were delivered on the day of delivery.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Fed Up With Phones
I've had enough of looking through mobile phone brochures and websites.
I'm in the mood for an upgrade so have been scouring the pages for a phone that will last me for the next contract and I just cannot figure out which plans and phone to choose.
It's been over a week now and I am still miles away from making a final decision.
If only I kept up to date on mobile technology - I wouldn't have all this trouble trying to figure out which is the best for me.
I have a feeling I'm going to hold on a little longer and see what happens when Orange and Vodafone release the iPhone.
There's bound to be a lot of better offers around then.
I'm in the mood for an upgrade so have been scouring the pages for a phone that will last me for the next contract and I just cannot figure out which plans and phone to choose.
It's been over a week now and I am still miles away from making a final decision.
If only I kept up to date on mobile technology - I wouldn't have all this trouble trying to figure out which is the best for me.
I have a feeling I'm going to hold on a little longer and see what happens when Orange and Vodafone release the iPhone.
There's bound to be a lot of better offers around then.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Browns With The Flu
It seems that the Cleveland Browns' season is about to get more worse than it already is.
I read last night that approximately twelve players have gone down with the flu. So - just like any gambler would do - I checked out the line on the Green Bay Packers to win.
The match had been pulled from the board.
I had another look this morning and the Packers are currently listed at -8 on the handicap. When the lines opened earlier this week, they were -6.5.
I'm not completely sure whether I will add them to the bet this weekend because I don't like the eight points they are laying.
It's on my shortlist, though.
I read last night that approximately twelve players have gone down with the flu. So - just like any gambler would do - I checked out the line on the Green Bay Packers to win.
The match had been pulled from the board.
I had another look this morning and the Packers are currently listed at -8 on the handicap. When the lines opened earlier this week, they were -6.5.
I'm not completely sure whether I will add them to the bet this weekend because I don't like the eight points they are laying.
It's on my shortlist, though.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Don't Blame Roy Keane
I have a message to every Ipswich Town fan - don't blame Roy Keane for the bad start to the season.
Blame me.
And I'll tell you why.
In 2002, I put Ipswich Town to win the Championship into my 2002/03 season bet. I was more confident about them than any of the other teams in my bet and I liked the odds on offer.
Well, I was wrong. They finished seventh.
I had the same feeling about them this year so put them into my 2009/10 season bet.
Now look where they are.
It's all my fault!
Blame me.
And I'll tell you why.
In 2002, I put Ipswich Town to win the Championship into my 2002/03 season bet. I was more confident about them than any of the other teams in my bet and I liked the odds on offer.
Well, I was wrong. They finished seventh.
I had the same feeling about them this year so put them into my 2009/10 season bet.
Now look where they are.
It's all my fault!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Live Quizzing
I've spent the past two afternoons playing on The Sun's new quiz show. It airs live between 1pm and 3pm on their website and has a selection of numbers, trivia and word quizzes.
I deposited £9 to get 63 credits (it's 1 credit to play a game) and have managed to win back £3.
I don't play every time there is a game as I am abysmal at some of the numbers and word games but have found my most success at trivia.
Give it a go - you get three free credits to try it out and see whether you like it.
Monday, October 19, 2009
A Load Of Balls (And A Few Balloons)
Last week was filled with hot air.
On Thursday night, we were introduced to the 'Balloon Boy' who was sailing across the skies of Denver in his attention starved father's hot air balloon only to realise the kid was home hiding out until his dad got himself some TV time.
Then, on Friday, yet another story came out about a balloon.
This time we heard that the Queen found a child's balloon message and sent a letter back.
Does the Queen really pick up litter from the floor?
The biggest story for me was the beach ball controversy during the Liverpool v Sunderland game.
Darren Bent scored a goal against Liverpool when the football ricocheted off a beach ball on the pitch and landed into the net.
Do I think it was right the goal stood?
Of Course.
I've always been under the assumption that there is a rule that if the ball hit a referee and it goes in it stands. The rule states that the ref is part of the field of play. I know a beach ball isn't part of the game but it was on the pitch - there are four officials and, at most, twelve players who could have got this thing removed from the field of play but it stayed.
I know my opinion is more than likely wrong and doesn't matter but the fact is - the goal stands and that's good enough for me.
Liverpool ended up losing 1-0 but it could have been worse.
They were lucky the beach ball never went in.
On Thursday night, we were introduced to the 'Balloon Boy' who was sailing across the skies of Denver in his attention starved father's hot air balloon only to realise the kid was home hiding out until his dad got himself some TV time.
Then, on Friday, yet another story came out about a balloon.
This time we heard that the Queen found a child's balloon message and sent a letter back.
Does the Queen really pick up litter from the floor?
The biggest story for me was the beach ball controversy during the Liverpool v Sunderland game.
Darren Bent scored a goal against Liverpool when the football ricocheted off a beach ball on the pitch and landed into the net.
Do I think it was right the goal stood?
Of Course.
I've always been under the assumption that there is a rule that if the ball hit a referee and it goes in it stands. The rule states that the ref is part of the field of play. I know a beach ball isn't part of the game but it was on the pitch - there are four officials and, at most, twelve players who could have got this thing removed from the field of play but it stayed.
I know my opinion is more than likely wrong and doesn't matter but the fact is - the goal stands and that's good enough for me.
Liverpool ended up losing 1-0 but it could have been worse.
They were lucky the beach ball never went in.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
American Sports And Soccer Betting 2009 : Week 6
I am getting fed up!
Another 4-7 weekend.
I don't know how many knocks to the chin I can take before the ref stops it. I said I was going to keep on - and so I shall.
Week 5 Results
1) MK Dons
2) Navy +11
3) Indiana +6.5
4) Stanford PICK
5) Real Betis
6) Carolina -4
7) Cincinnati @ Baltimore OVER 42 points
8) New England @ Denver OVER 41 points
9) Seattle -1
10) Atlanta +3.5
11) Brazil
Week 5 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £0.52
Profit/Loss = -19.84
Overall Stats
Stake = £122.27
Returns = £85.16
Profit/Loss = -37.11
Week 6 Picks
1) Florida Atlantic -1 (NCAAF)
2) Navy -6.5 (NCAAF)
3) Udinese (Italian Serie A)
4) Wolfsburg v M'Gladbach OVER 2.5 goals (German Bundesliga)
5) Brondby (Danish League)
6) Kansas City +6 (NFL)
7) Carolina @ Tampa Bay OVER 39 points total (NFL)
8) St. Louis @ Jacksonville OVER 43 points total (NFL)
9) Seattle -3 (NFL)
10) Union Berlin v Greuther Furth OVER 2.5 goals (German Bundesliga II)
11) Denver +3.5 (NFL)
£20.36 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
Another 4-7 weekend.
I don't know how many knocks to the chin I can take before the ref stops it. I said I was going to keep on - and so I shall.
Week 5 Results
1) MK Dons
2) Navy +11
3) Indiana +6.5
4) Stanford PICK
5) Real Betis
6) Carolina -4
7) Cincinnati @ Baltimore OVER 42 points
8) New England @ Denver OVER 41 points
9) Seattle -1
10) Atlanta +3.5
11) Brazil
Week 5 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £0.52
Profit/Loss = -19.84
Overall Stats
Stake = £122.27
Returns = £85.16
Profit/Loss = -37.11
Week 6 Picks
1) Florida Atlantic -1 (NCAAF)
2) Navy -6.5 (NCAAF)
3) Udinese (Italian Serie A)
4) Wolfsburg v M'Gladbach OVER 2.5 goals (German Bundesliga)
5) Brondby (Danish League)
6) Kansas City +6 (NFL)
7) Carolina @ Tampa Bay OVER 39 points total (NFL)
8) St. Louis @ Jacksonville OVER 43 points total (NFL)
9) Seattle -3 (NFL)
10) Union Berlin v Greuther Furth OVER 2.5 goals (German Bundesliga II)
11) Denver +3.5 (NFL)
£20.36 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Shane Quits
For the second time this week, breaking news has prompted me to change a post - or two - that I had planned to publish.
Shane McMahon announced yesterday that he was resigning from his role in WWE.
This is big news as he - at one point in time - was the heir apparent to the wrestling empire currently being ruled by his father, Vince McMahon.
In recent years, it became clear he was happy with a vice president role working in the company's new media department while his sister - Stephanie - and her husband, Triple H, were looking likely to be in charge once Vince decides to cal it quits.
It's more or less guaranteed that Stephanie and Hunter will become the heads when that day arrives so yesterday's news was an important chapter in the history of pro wrestling.
Shane McMahon announced yesterday that he was resigning from his role in WWE.
This is big news as he - at one point in time - was the heir apparent to the wrestling empire currently being ruled by his father, Vince McMahon.
In recent years, it became clear he was happy with a vice president role working in the company's new media department while his sister - Stephanie - and her husband, Triple H, were looking likely to be in charge once Vince decides to cal it quits.
It's more or less guaranteed that Stephanie and Hunter will become the heads when that day arrives so yesterday's news was an important chapter in the history of pro wrestling.
Friday, October 16, 2009
The Welsh Batista
I read that WWE had signed a Welsh wrestler to a developmental contract so I did a search and found a picture of him.
I was shocked at what I found.

I was shocked at what I found.

It's incredible how much he looks like Dave Batista.
Back in the '80s and '90s you would find newcomers to the business who were lookalikes of The Ultimate Warrior. I guess the idea for the late 2000s is for all the up-and-comers to look like Batista.
This guy's name is Barri Griffiths and was apparently on the UK version of Gladiators.
I hope he does end up getting a spot on the main roster as it will be cool to see someone representing Wales.
I wish him well.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Captain Lou Albano
One of wrestlings most celebrated managers, Captain Lou Albano, died yesterday at the age of seventy-six.
As Albano had left the WWF by the time I first got into American wrestling, I became aware of him through the Hulk Hogan cartoon where he was one of the babyface characters in the series.
Then, in 1994, Albano returned to the WWF managing The Headshrinkers to the World tag team championship. This team was one of the many he led to the gold. In this worked business, his success at turning tag teams into champions gave him the moniker of the 'Guiding Light'.
Captain Lou was also known outside of professional wrestling due to the advent of the music video and computer games.
He appeared in a number of Cyndi Lauper videos on MTV during the 80s.
He even secured the role of Mario on the Super Mario Bros. Super Show during the time when Nintendo was becoming popular with children across the World.
As Albano had left the WWF by the time I first got into American wrestling, I became aware of him through the Hulk Hogan cartoon where he was one of the babyface characters in the series.
Then, in 1994, Albano returned to the WWF managing The Headshrinkers to the World tag team championship. This team was one of the many he led to the gold. In this worked business, his success at turning tag teams into champions gave him the moniker of the 'Guiding Light'.
Captain Lou was also known outside of professional wrestling due to the advent of the music video and computer games.
He appeared in a number of Cyndi Lauper videos on MTV during the 80s.
He even secured the role of Mario on the Super Mario Bros. Super Show during the time when Nintendo was becoming popular with children across the World.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
An Annoyance With Earphones
There is one thing I get annoyed at more than anything and that is when my earphones break.
It seems to happen quite often with me.
I cannot count how many times I have purchased earphones in the past five years. If we were to line them all up I could probably get to the corner of my road.
Or further!
I've bought them from places such as Argos and Currys all the way down to the dodgy sellers on Ebay.
Don't even get me started on the rip-off earphones I have bought online.
The most recent pair I bought lasted me from spring all the way until yesterday afternoon. So, I got a fairly decent run out of them.
I've just ordered a new pair - let's see how long these last.
It seems to happen quite often with me.
I cannot count how many times I have purchased earphones in the past five years. If we were to line them all up I could probably get to the corner of my road.
Or further!
I've bought them from places such as Argos and Currys all the way down to the dodgy sellers on Ebay.
Don't even get me started on the rip-off earphones I have bought online.
The most recent pair I bought lasted me from spring all the way until yesterday afternoon. So, I got a fairly decent run out of them.
I've just ordered a new pair - let's see how long these last.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Michaels' Absence
The absence of Shawn Michaels on last night's edition of WWE Raw was brilliant.
I don't know if it was a shoot reason but Michaels had to remain at home due to his daughter being sick. WWE made up for the nonappearance by having him featured in numerous skits via a telephone alongside a cardboard cut-out.
Yes, it was a lame cover-up for the absent wrestler but I think it worked well for one night only.
I laughed more for these skits than I have for any of the recent D-Generation X stuff. However, that isn't saying much.
I don't know if it was a shoot reason but Michaels had to remain at home due to his daughter being sick. WWE made up for the nonappearance by having him featured in numerous skits via a telephone alongside a cardboard cut-out.
Yes, it was a lame cover-up for the absent wrestler but I think it worked well for one night only.
I laughed more for these skits than I have for any of the recent D-Generation X stuff. However, that isn't saying much.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Plus Eleven
While looking through the NCAA football games on the weekend, one handicap caught my attention.
Navy +11.
I always look through the Las Vegas lines when considering what to bet on each week. This way, I can get a feel on where the consensus is as I can see where the lines move.
Navy were -11 everywhere else and I noticed that it was +11 where I bet so put that in my bet. I also told a few friends about it so they could jump on it as well.
Hours after telling my friends - one of them sent me a forwarded email from the betting site telling him that there was an 'obvious error' with the handicap and that they had changed the line of his bet back to -11.
An 'obvious error' that wasn't so obvious at the time they published the odds.
I didn't get an email like this but it seems they had a term in their rules that allowed them to amend their own errors.
I don't think that's fair.
If I were to walk into a shop and there was an item for sale at an erroneous price and I took up the invitation to purchase the item should I expect to be called back from the store manager telling me they had taken the extra amount out of my account because it was their mistake? I may be naive here, but I believe the law would favour the consumer in situations like this.
The result didn't matter, anyway.
Navy won the game 63-14. I didn't need the eleven points on either side of the betting.
Navy +11.
I always look through the Las Vegas lines when considering what to bet on each week. This way, I can get a feel on where the consensus is as I can see where the lines move.
Navy were -11 everywhere else and I noticed that it was +11 where I bet so put that in my bet. I also told a few friends about it so they could jump on it as well.
Hours after telling my friends - one of them sent me a forwarded email from the betting site telling him that there was an 'obvious error' with the handicap and that they had changed the line of his bet back to -11.
An 'obvious error' that wasn't so obvious at the time they published the odds.
I didn't get an email like this but it seems they had a term in their rules that allowed them to amend their own errors.
I don't think that's fair.
If I were to walk into a shop and there was an item for sale at an erroneous price and I took up the invitation to purchase the item should I expect to be called back from the store manager telling me they had taken the extra amount out of my account because it was their mistake? I may be naive here, but I believe the law would favour the consumer in situations like this.
The result didn't matter, anyway.
Navy won the game 63-14. I didn't need the eleven points on either side of the betting.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
The Pilo Family Circus
I spent the past week reading one of the weirdest books I have ever read.
And I loved it.
The Pilo Family Circus - written by Will Elliott -is about a young Australian male who comes across a trio of clowns while leaving work one night. He ends up accidentally drinking some of their magical powder and then becomes their target.
They want him for their circus.
The Pilo Circus is based in a bizarro world and is full of depraved characters that makes this novel dark yet intriguing.
One of the plots in the story is based on the struggles between Jamie - the hero - and his nemesis, JJ. This plot is quite schizophrenic as JJ is the clown that Jamie becomes when he wears the mystical face-paint
There are symbols of religion used throughout the novel and - to me - the Piro's are godly in a big brother kind of way. The world they run is sort of like a limbo between earth and hell and the end of the novel sees its own version of Armageddon.
This book is like a cocktail of horror and humour with bits of religious and social analogies thrown in for more flavour.
It is such a clever story - I recommend you seek out a copy.
And I loved it.
The Pilo Family Circus - written by Will Elliott -is about a young Australian male who comes across a trio of clowns while leaving work one night. He ends up accidentally drinking some of their magical powder and then becomes their target.
They want him for their circus.
The Pilo Circus is based in a bizarro world and is full of depraved characters that makes this novel dark yet intriguing.
One of the plots in the story is based on the struggles between Jamie - the hero - and his nemesis, JJ. This plot is quite schizophrenic as JJ is the clown that Jamie becomes when he wears the mystical face-paint
There are symbols of religion used throughout the novel and - to me - the Piro's are godly in a big brother kind of way. The world they run is sort of like a limbo between earth and hell and the end of the novel sees its own version of Armageddon.
This book is like a cocktail of horror and humour with bits of religious and social analogies thrown in for more flavour.
It is such a clever story - I recommend you seek out a copy.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
American Sports And Soccer Betting 2009 : Week 5
It looks like I'm repeating the failure that was last season.
Last week, I went 5-7 with picks. I'm now back in the red and have made a change in approach.
I've decided to scrap the plans on doing twelve selections on every fourth week. I realised that - at this current rate - it would be foolish of me to continue with the idea as I am not hitting over 60% each weekend.
With that said, there will be one week where I do twelve selections and that will be on the week of Thanksgiving in the USA. The reason why I have selected this week is because I would like to place a few prop bets on that Thursday night and will add them to the bet. I'll write more near to the time.
I've amended the first post in this series to coincide with the change in 'rules', 'guidelines' or what ever they can be classified as.
Week 4 Results
1) St. Pauli
2) PSV Eindhoven
3) Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers OVER 2.5 goals
4) AC Milan
5) Detroit +10
6) Tennessee -3
7) Racing Santander vs Valencia OVER 2.5 goals
8) Real Madrid
9) New Orleans -7
10) Buffalo -1.5
11) San Diego @ Pittsburgh OVER 43 points
12) Green Bay @ Minnesota OVER 45.5 points
Week 4 Stats
Stake = £40.83
Returns = £1.57
Profit/Loss = -39.26
Overall Stats
Stake = £101.91
Returns = £84.64
Profit/Loss = -17.27
Total wins: 20
Total Losses: 25
Strike-rate: 44.4%
Week 5 Picks
Please note: this week's bet is being placed at stanjames.com
1) MK Dons (English League 1)
2) Navy +11 (NCAAF)
3) Indiana +6.5 (NCAAF)
4) Stanford PICK (NCAAF)
5) Real Betis (Spanish 2nd League)
6) Carolina -4 (NFL)
7) Cincinnati @ Baltimore OVER 42 points (NFL)
8) New England @ Denver OVER 41 points (NFL)
9) Seattle -1 (NFL)
10) Atlanta +3.5 (NFL)
11) Brazil (Soccer World Cup Qualifier)
£20.36 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
Last week, I went 5-7 with picks. I'm now back in the red and have made a change in approach.
I've decided to scrap the plans on doing twelve selections on every fourth week. I realised that - at this current rate - it would be foolish of me to continue with the idea as I am not hitting over 60% each weekend.
With that said, there will be one week where I do twelve selections and that will be on the week of Thanksgiving in the USA. The reason why I have selected this week is because I would like to place a few prop bets on that Thursday night and will add them to the bet. I'll write more near to the time.
I've amended the first post in this series to coincide with the change in 'rules', 'guidelines' or what ever they can be classified as.
Week 4 Results
1) St. Pauli
2) PSV Eindhoven
3) Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers OVER 2.5 goals
4) AC Milan
5) Detroit +10
6) Tennessee -3
7) Racing Santander vs Valencia OVER 2.5 goals
8) Real Madrid
9) New Orleans -7
10) Buffalo -1.5
11) San Diego @ Pittsburgh OVER 43 points
12) Green Bay @ Minnesota OVER 45.5 points
Week 4 Stats
Stake = £40.83
Returns = £1.57
Profit/Loss = -39.26
Overall Stats
Stake = £101.91
Returns = £84.64
Profit/Loss = -17.27
Total wins: 20
Total Losses: 25
Strike-rate: 44.4%
Week 5 Picks
Please note: this week's bet is being placed at stanjames.com
1) MK Dons (English League 1)
2) Navy +11 (NCAAF)
3) Indiana +6.5 (NCAAF)
4) Stanford PICK (NCAAF)
5) Real Betis (Spanish 2nd League)
6) Carolina -4 (NFL)
7) Cincinnati @ Baltimore OVER 42 points (NFL)
8) New England @ Denver OVER 41 points (NFL)
9) Seattle -1 (NFL)
10) Atlanta +3.5 (NFL)
11) Brazil (Soccer World Cup Qualifier)
£20.36 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
Friday, October 09, 2009
The Roddy Piper Rumour
A sick Roddy Piper rumour was posted on the Internet the other night and it has spread like wildfire ever since.
The report claimed that Piper's cancer had returned and he wasn't expected to survive past this weekend. It was also alleged that Vince McMahon had told his writers to leave room for video tributes in the plans for Monday night's episode of Raw.
Dave Meltzer at the Wrestling Observer Newsletter posted that this breaking news was 'unfounded' and that - although it is true Piper's doctor have told him to take rest from acting and personal appearances - the cancer has not returned.
I refuse to name the site that 'broke' this 'news'. They don't deserve any more attention.
The report claimed that Piper's cancer had returned and he wasn't expected to survive past this weekend. It was also alleged that Vince McMahon had told his writers to leave room for video tributes in the plans for Monday night's episode of Raw.
Dave Meltzer at the Wrestling Observer Newsletter posted that this breaking news was 'unfounded' and that - although it is true Piper's doctor have told him to take rest from acting and personal appearances - the cancer has not returned.
I refuse to name the site that 'broke' this 'news'. They don't deserve any more attention.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Police Academy 6
Oh yes.
I finally got round to seeing the sixth DVD in the Police Academy box-set I bought last year.
What a movie!
I last saw this film when I was ten-years old and I now know why I have avoided it ever since.
They were trying their best to capture the brilliance of the first few movies with this offering.
And they failed.
Can it get any worse?
I finally got round to seeing the sixth DVD in the Police Academy box-set I bought last year.
What a movie!
I last saw this film when I was ten-years old and I now know why I have avoided it ever since.
They were trying their best to capture the brilliance of the first few movies with this offering.
And they failed.
Can it get any worse?
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
A History Maker
It seems that my prediction in yesterday's post where I guessed the American football match between the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings would be the highest rated game in history was correct.
And then some.
Not only did it achieve my estimate, it broke the record for all television shows.
That's right - the game's 15.3 viewership rating made it the most watched television show in the history of cable TV.
And then some.
Not only did it achieve my estimate, it broke the record for all television shows.
That's right - the game's 15.3 viewership rating made it the most watched television show in the history of cable TV.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
The Return Of The Prodigal Son (And I Can't See!)
It's after twelve on Tuesday morning when this post will be published so it will only be a few hours before Brett Favre faces his former team - and rivals to his current employers, the Minnesota Vikings - the Green Bay Packers.
The most annoying thing about the entire thing is I cannot see it.
The Monday Night Football rights were not picked up in this country so I won't be watching what will surely end up being the most watched regular season game in history.
That's not hype, folks. I'm confident this game will end up breaking television records in the USA.
Favre left the Packers in 2008 and played one season at the New York Jets before joining the Vikings this year.
To convey how big Favre playing for the Packers' rivals is I would say it would be similar to Alan Shearer joining Sunderland after leaving Newcastle United.
There will be fireworks.
The most annoying thing about the entire thing is I cannot see it.
The Monday Night Football rights were not picked up in this country so I won't be watching what will surely end up being the most watched regular season game in history.
That's not hype, folks. I'm confident this game will end up breaking television records in the USA.
Favre left the Packers in 2008 and played one season at the New York Jets before joining the Vikings this year.
To convey how big Favre playing for the Packers' rivals is I would say it would be similar to Alan Shearer joining Sunderland after leaving Newcastle United.
There will be fireworks.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Too Many Stips Spoil The WWE Broth
Last night was WWE's Hell in a Cell pay-per-view where three of the marquee bouts took place in the cage.
It was two matches too much.
The Hell in a Cell concept is usually introduced - at the very least - once a year and should be the final match in a hot feud.
It is wrestling 101 for a long-term rivalry to climax in a specific stipulation match. Last night we got three fights inside the 'demonic structure'.
It's overkill and I have a bad feeling that the stipulation will become watered down now that WWE intend to have this as a theme for every October pay-per-view from now on.
It was two matches too much.
The Hell in a Cell concept is usually introduced - at the very least - once a year and should be the final match in a hot feud.
It is wrestling 101 for a long-term rivalry to climax in a specific stipulation match. Last night we got three fights inside the 'demonic structure'.
It's overkill and I have a bad feeling that the stipulation will become watered down now that WWE intend to have this as a theme for every October pay-per-view from now on.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
American Sports And Soccer Betting 2009 : Week 4
The second 4-7 result in three weeks has dented the profit I made last week.
This is bad news considering my intention of placing an extra selection into the bet each fourth week. In hindsight, I should have decided to do the £40.83 bets on every fourth week from week eight and beyond as this system still hasn't kicked in.
I'm not going to back out now, though.
I'll see how this weekend pans out and then decide whether to continue with the twelve selections every fourth week.
Week 3 Results
1) Chelsea -1, -1.5 Asian handicap
2) Valencia vs Atletico Madrid OVER 2.5 goals
3) Penn State -9.5
4) Stanford -8.5
5) Espanyol -1 Asian handicap
6) Tennessee +3
7) Detroit +6.5
8) New England -4
9) Cleveland @ Baltimore OVER 38.5 points
10) Denver -1.5 & game total OVER 35.5 quadpick
11) Cercle Brugge vs KV Mechelen
Week 3 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £0.52
Profit/Loss = -19.84
Overall Stats
Stake = £61.08
Returns = £83.07
Profit/Loss = +21.99
Week 4 Picks
1) St. Pauli (German Bundesliga 2)
2) PSV Eindhoven (Dutch Eredivisie)
3) Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers OVER 2.5 goals (English Premier League)
4) AC Milan (Italian Serie A)
5) Detroit +10 (NFL)
6) Tennessee -3 (NFL)
7) Racing Santander vs Valencia OVER 2.5 goals (Spanish La Liga)
8) Real Madrid (Spanish La Liga)
9) New Orleans -7 (NFL)
10) Buffalo -1.5 (NFL)
11) San Diego @ Pittsburgh OVER 43 points (NFL)
12) Green Bay @ Minnesota OVER 45.5 points (NFL)
£40.83 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
This is bad news considering my intention of placing an extra selection into the bet each fourth week. In hindsight, I should have decided to do the £40.83 bets on every fourth week from week eight and beyond as this system still hasn't kicked in.
I'm not going to back out now, though.
I'll see how this weekend pans out and then decide whether to continue with the twelve selections every fourth week.
Week 3 Results
1) Chelsea -1, -1.5 Asian handicap
2) Valencia vs Atletico Madrid OVER 2.5 goals
3) Penn State -9.5
4) Stanford -8.5
5) Espanyol -1 Asian handicap
6) Tennessee +3
7) Detroit +6.5
8) New England -4
9) Cleveland @ Baltimore OVER 38.5 points
10) Denver -1.5 & game total OVER 35.5 quadpick
11) Cercle Brugge vs KV Mechelen
Week 3 Stats
Stake = £20.36
Returns = £0.52
Profit/Loss = -19.84
Overall Stats
Stake = £61.08
Returns = £83.07
Profit/Loss = +21.99
Week 4 Picks
1) St. Pauli (German Bundesliga 2)
2) PSV Eindhoven (Dutch Eredivisie)
3) Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers OVER 2.5 goals (English Premier League)
4) AC Milan (Italian Serie A)
5) Detroit +10 (NFL)
6) Tennessee -3 (NFL)
7) Racing Santander vs Valencia OVER 2.5 goals (Spanish La Liga)
8) Real Madrid (Spanish La Liga)
9) New Orleans -7 (NFL)
10) Buffalo -1.5 (NFL)
11) San Diego @ Pittsburgh OVER 43 points (NFL)
12) Green Bay @ Minnesota OVER 45.5 points (NFL)
£40.83 block bet (doubles upwards @ 1p a line)
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Keegan Versus Newcastle : The Winner And The Loser
It was interesting to read one of the main problems Kevin Keegan faced during his second managerial tenure at Newcastle United involved a Youtube video.
He was asked to sign a player after watching a clip of Ignacio Gonzalez on the website - Keegan refused.
I don't blame him.
The situation turned worse when Dennis Wise, Tony Jimenez and Mike Ashley signed the player over Keegan's head thus conflicting on of the terms in the manager's contract.
Keegan was forced to resign and has been battling the club ever since.
Yesterday, he won a hearing and his former club was ordered to pay over two million pounds in compensation.
It was a bittersweet victory for Keegan. He was after more than that and had been offered a decent sum to settle before going to a tribunal.
He does get to walk away with his reputation restored.
As for the others?
Their reputation wasn't worth much to begin with.
He was asked to sign a player after watching a clip of Ignacio Gonzalez on the website - Keegan refused.
I don't blame him.
The situation turned worse when Dennis Wise, Tony Jimenez and Mike Ashley signed the player over Keegan's head thus conflicting on of the terms in the manager's contract.
Keegan was forced to resign and has been battling the club ever since.
Yesterday, he won a hearing and his former club was ordered to pay over two million pounds in compensation.
It was a bittersweet victory for Keegan. He was after more than that and had been offered a decent sum to settle before going to a tribunal.
He does get to walk away with his reputation restored.
As for the others?
Their reputation wasn't worth much to begin with.
Friday, October 02, 2009
The Fix Is In
I just looked at the tournament bracketing for tonight's Prizefighter and it's obvious the thing has been fixed up.
Audley Harrison and Danny Williams are both apart in this tournament set-up in the hope that the two will end up in the final.
If they're both successful in their first two fights, of course.
I would love it if there is an upset in the earlier bouts - love it!
Audley Harrison and Danny Williams are both apart in this tournament set-up in the hope that the two will end up in the final.
If they're both successful in their first two fights, of course.
I would love it if there is an upset in the earlier bouts - love it!
Thursday, October 01, 2009
A Clash
I saw an advert for the next Prizefighter boxing event for this Friday and decided I would watch it. I then realised WWE Smackdown is going to be on the other Sky Sports channel at the same time.
Decisions, decisions.
I hardly ever watch Smackdown when it's on Friday nights but this week is a big show as it is the tenth anniversary edition and features a video promo from Dwayne Johnson.
I refuse to call him 'The Rock' these days.
Prizefighter is also intriguing as it will have two 'star' boxers in the one-night tournament.
Danny Williams and Audley Harrison will be fighting for the big cheque at the end of the evening and I would like to see how both these guys do. I have visions of an upset.
I don't even know which show I will decide to watch.
I guess I have a bit of thinking to do for the next day or so.
Decisions, decisions.
I hardly ever watch Smackdown when it's on Friday nights but this week is a big show as it is the tenth anniversary edition and features a video promo from Dwayne Johnson.
I refuse to call him 'The Rock' these days.
Prizefighter is also intriguing as it will have two 'star' boxers in the one-night tournament.
Danny Williams and Audley Harrison will be fighting for the big cheque at the end of the evening and I would like to see how both these guys do. I have visions of an upset.
I don't even know which show I will decide to watch.
I guess I have a bit of thinking to do for the next day or so.
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