Category Archives: Saturdays

Dazzling Bright in Seattle, at the Borealis Festival of Light

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Last Saturday, I viewed some very bright and colorful lights during the nights,  the first annual Borealis, Festival of Light in Seattle.

Such was a four-day event held in the main waterside park area of South Lake Union, where a showcase of light fixtures and interesting little sculptures were scattered about, in and around the area. Some of the visuals were interactive…

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That was all I got from the small stuff, but trust me, there were some cool illuminations around. That second pic above would change with the use of a “magic roller.” Cooool!

Some attendees also brought their own electrical lights…

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From all that, simple minor delights to enjoy for what they are, an appreciation for the use of art in light, through intensity, shape, color, and new technology. I felt a childlike joy, in allowing my imagination slightly drift off, in some weird otherworldy dimension for the moments I had to myself among the strange sights.

Meanwhile, the most interesting and best of it all was its main event, a very huge video projection show of dazzling digital light and sound, all part of a large competition of art teams, from around the world…

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I will share more about that in my next write-up, soon. I promise!

– Orion T

 

 

 

Riding the Great Weather

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Lately, the warm and sunny weather has brought out the best in people.

For me over the recent weekend, the effect been more exercise by moving around more. I also got some nice new walking shoes, making my recent walk through the West Seattle longer, more enjoyable. Also, I did some reading and writing

Alki Beach of West Seattle felt especially pleasant, with people in abundance doing many good things possible and special to this wonderful climate. The best of which included volleyball, kayaking, jogging, conversing, holding hands, eating ice cream out of a cone, dog-walking,  and leaving their mobile devices alone.

The summer is about a month away, with more days of good sun to make up for some of the gloom and freeze of the prior months (at least here in the Pacific Northwest US).

I look forward!

– Orion T

I shot the picture last Saturday afternoon. No idea on who the bicyclist is, but his balance skills are excellent. And I think he probably appreciated the cheers in the distance (and a big thanks to him for allowing me time to get my camera ready). I could also overhear someone whistling and complementing his physique. That got a chuckle out of me.

The Outside In

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The sun was an inviting element to this particular past weekend for 2018. I think this was the first time of this year, where the Emerald City got complete sunshine for both Saturday and Sunday.

Or, at least that what I have noticed while not being indoors for most this weekend. I walked around a lot through downtown and the waterfront on errands and eating. But particularly striking was the Central Library in the early afternoon. I was there to finish my taxes and check out some movies. The light of the sun directly shined through, causing the revealing pattern shadows on the floor. I had to take a picture (see above).

Then, the only movie I checked out was Alien: Covenant. I watched it later, and felt no excitement. That movie is super boring and put me to sleep.

– Orion T

The Seattle Women’s March of 2018

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On Saturday and mostly in the cities, the second annual series of Women’s Marches happened across the United States. Big results followed through once again, with an emphasis of unease towards the current President, his administration, and GOP establishment (also the year anniversary of #45’s inauguration).

The people of Seattle and surrounding areas arrived, and filled the march route for several hours by tens of thousands in number. The weather was murky with spots of light sprinkles with a forgiving temperature of the upper 40s. Signs on hand were many focused toward “liberal” causes, many of which are championed by strong-minded women fighting back today.

Especially for the Seattle event, there was a grand presence of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls March happening within. Such was heartfelt for the troubling history involving such, bringing awareness to the ignored gender-based violence in the United States and Canada to Indigenous Women. Here with the march, drums and native symbology mix with red cloth for solidarity to the victims and unresolved cases.

Here are my pictures of this event…

An overall good day, with refreshed optimism and new unity for our challenging times.

-Orion T

Wonderful Honkfest West 2017 happenings…

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The weekend in Seattle held plenty for those with little in time, especially moments with great band music.

For me, I spent a little time for the second day of HonkFest West, a three-day grassroots, non-profit musical festival run and produced by volunteers. Much of the big sounds are from street bands coming from a variety of locations and backgrounds, to perform along three days in local areas. All performance are free and open to the public. However, donations in monetary supp ort are highly encouraged.

I had a little time on Saturday, passing through Pioneer Square’s Occidental Square, where nearby folk can hear the music and cheers from around the block. Coming closer brought a special awe to ears, with large group performances involving all the best instruments of the big band sound. I mainly stuck around for two main featured bands.

One group being The M9 (the M is Minor), a local band using high-energy in its brass combinations to bring about “global fusion sounds of the rich Balkan Romani brass tradition form the core of a repertoire which excites, invigorates, and inspires curiosity about one of Europe’s most misunderstood minorities.” Here’s a sample:

The other being Love-Bomb Go-Go, a PNW band from Portland, Oregon, a retro-future intergalactic band group dressed in funky attire, using an awesome blend of brass and dance. They are on “a mission to mend, with music, the divisions of civilization; seeking universal equality and striving, even, to re-establish purposefulness for each and every life.” Here’s a sample:

After both bands, I was treated to another gathered performance of the M9 and some added performers for another amazing jam session.

I share some choice pics I took of the excitement, below. For more on Honkfest West, check out  www.honkfestwest.org.

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– Orion T

Over the Weekend, Reading and Relaxation

The partly sunny, warm weather this weekend with no minimal plans meant two essential things for me, to read and relax.

And so I did, after a visit to a couple of comic-book stores (Comics Dungeon in Wallingford, Seattle and Zanadu Comics in the Downtown area). On Saturday, they and many other stores of its kind took part in the annual Free Comic Book Day event. This special day is meant for promoting the still existing physical comic stores with the sequential art they promote and sell.

For me, I did partake. From both, I got a nice stack of new reads and purchased some ongoing favorites. Such purchases were Flintstones #11 (a brilliant satire and very different take on the classic cartoon), Eternal Empire #1 (interesting new sci-fi fantasy from a favorite writer/artist duo), Paper Girls #14 (paper delivery girls from the 1980s displaced in time, discovering weirdness), Extremity #3 (a fresh sci-fantasy action drama, with war and revenge themes).

With those and free comic curiosities (too many to list), I read some at Gas Works park in Fremont for Saturday, then others at Olympic Sculpture Park on Sunday; while taking breaks to nap and take notes on ideas and thoughts. An overall good productive time, that would be wasted in doing less.

– Orion T

The picture above is from Gas Works Park in the Fremont district, while reading the latest Paper Girls comic. Here is the view without the pages…

A Day of Scattered Blossoms.

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“The significance of the cherry blossom tree in Japanese culture goes back hundreds of years. In their country, the cherry blossom represents the fragility and the beauty of life. It’s a reminder that life is almost overwhelmingly beautiful but that it is also tragically short.”

– Homaro Cantu, famous American chef and inventor.

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Pictures taken at Freeway Park, behind the Convention Center in Downtown Seattle. The scattered blossoms were from the previous days of heavy wind and rainfall.

– Orion T

Pictures and notes by Traveling Orion, (Orion Tippens). For external use for public use, please contact and obtain permission first.

 

Pictures of Yesterday 3/25/2017, Looking Out the Window…

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Yesterday, I worked some extra hours.

Among the free coffee and snacks, I now appreciate that our workplace has many windows. Such that I may enjoy the beautiful day, of which I am otherwise missing out on a good long walk. Still, there was much to appreciate in the small area occasionally gazed upon. The morning rains stop, then a lengthy blast of the sunshine (and then, more rain just as I finished work…sigh).

Here below, are some window captures from the uppest floor; a nice opportunity to open a few windows and stick my camera outside, being that most of the staff was out and out of the way.

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– Orion T

Pictures and notes by Traveling Orion, (Orion Tippens). For external use for public use, please contact and obtain permission first.

Book Sale Shenanigans

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Woah, look at the all the books!

This, being the highlight of my winter end weekend, at the annual Friends of the Seattle Public Library Book Sale. This was my fourth year in attendance, now held at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall. Over 100,000 items, including Music CD, movie DVDs, audiobooks, vinyl records, and many, many books.

Many, many people joined in this massive treasure hunt. Many of them resellers, for which there are sure profits. Others, treasure hunters looking for rare finds. Some just like the cheap thrills and the joy of finding such. I can’t resist, especially at the $1.00 to $4.00 prices for each item.

So here, are some sights up close inside the massive hullabaloo…

History!!

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Literature!

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Rare Books!

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Half my catch, mostly comics and graphic novels. The other half contained mostly larger books and hardcovers (mostly odd fiction, biographies, and history).

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Good fun, though I will probably not get around to reading many of these anytime soon.

– Orion T

Picture of Today 9/3/2016, the Much Colorful Cosplay..

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The PAX (Penny Arcade Expo) returned to Seattle, bringing the unusual bunch special, colorful bunch of gaming enthusiasts together.

Though this year, the event is now PAX West (former PAX Prime), an annual convention for gamers of both the video interactive and the physical tabletop variety. Tomorrow, I will be attending the inside of the event and intend on doing much mingling and observing of a culture I enjoy taking part in.

But outside (where I was strolling by for a walk behind the convention center), there was an interesting sub-group of gaming enthusiasts among the PAX participants gathering around; the cosplayers, who dress up as their favorite characters of their current favorite fandom. Often, they gravitate towards other and court the local photographing paparazzi. With the nice weather peeking out, there were clusters of cosplayers about presenting their colorful attires.

Above, are a sub-group of cosplayers who are growing in presence with their costumes familiar to the League of Legends online MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena). I have yet to play this fascinating game, but very much enjoy the character designs that bring a worthy challenge to its fans who cosplay. The costumes are traditionally hand-made or assembled from ordered fabrics, with some parts taking great craftsmanship and skills to bring about the wonderful details.

Here, is another shot of the League of Legends gathering, taken from my smartphone..

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That’s all for now. More pics soon!

– Orion T

Pictures of Last Sunday, A Ducky Day

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Just pictures of ducks today, to bring about the calmness that comes forth before and after the busy work week (plus one Saturday of leftover plans and needed shopping). Sunday is the day we are supposed to stress a little less and be like the lazy ducks here.

And for today I did some sitting of my own, and watched the Seahawks vs. Vikings NFL game. That crazy and very cold (- 6 degrees Fahrenheit) game that had us off our tailfeathers, from the kickoff to the ridiculously close end deciding the advancement of the playoffs through one failed field kick. Go Hawks!

Pictures here, are from last week’s adventure in Vancouver, Canada on the beach edge of English Bay by the Central Downtown area. I like these shots, as I think they deserve a posting of their own, expressing my current state of mind.

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Orion T

Picture of Today 1/2/2016, Canada Gold

  
The other side of yesterday, beyond West Vancouver and looking back…

This time, standing upon the observation deck of the summit at Grouse Mountian. The moment, a beautiful one looking southward at the land I love exploring and will continue to do so” for later in 2016. Over the mountains in the distance I believe are the United States. 

I have more to say and show, but the day is late and I am hungry. There will be features and sets soon, promise. But for now, here is a bonus pic with a different lens…

  

– Orion T

Picture of Today 9/19/15, Motorbikings..

  

 Earlier today by the Seattle Space Needle, a cluster of motorbikes stopped by.

I had no idea of their arrival, as I wanted to simply cross the street. Suddenly..countless Kawasakis, Susukis, and other colorful sportbikes covered the way and stopped at the red light. Quick cheers were exchanged, tourists gawked, and I got a few pics. Engines revved up, giving off much smoke and loud noise. After a few minutes, the light for them turned green. 

Then, all were gone.

– Orion T

  
  

Honk! Fest West 2015 weekend fun at Gas Works Park..

   

After the Solstice Parade last Saturday (see last entry), I enjoyed some evening jams at Gasworks Park.

I give huge thanks to the 2015 Honk!Fest musical happening, featuring a variety of big band ensembles. All free, yet donor and volunteer backed.

Above pics are of the (EDIT: I learned the above band is actually  The Extraordinary Rendition Band from Providence, Rhode Island…oops.)

Below, are pics on the Junkadelic Brass Band from Perth Australia.. 

 

 

– Orion T

Vashon Island Adventure, on Fisher Pond Trail 

Vashon Island is a magnificent escape for anyone wanting a good step outside from that busy work week.

You can visit the island, southwest of Seattle. The trip is easy and cheap by ferryboat from the nearby lands. For nature lovers, this is a paradise of many options and places to go. Not all could be covered in a short visit here. I chose the Fisher Pond, a mile west of the small town of Vashon within the center of the island. I spent much time in town (which will be covered in another post), and had only a few hours until the last bus to the duck would go back.So with local advice, I went there for a few hours.

So, here are some pictures taken, mostly from the Fisher Pond Trail surrounding the pond…

 

On the way to to the pond trail on Bank Road. The walk was about two miles, very peaceful with views like this between the houses..

 

The trail itself, pretty short compared to the time it took to get here. Most do the time spent here was in being still taking pictures and reading short stories. 

 

Just a cool shot of some leaves. I trying for a small bird just beyond the leaves, but was a little late.

There were many of dragonflies fluttering about. This I think (based on a Google search) is a blue damselfly.

One of may birds you can hear chirping about on the trail. I wish I was good at taking pictures of birds, as they are hard to locate. Also, I also wish I could identify them better. Maybe on my next library visit, I will look more into this..

Another small red bird, enjoying a little sunshine..

Another bue damselfly, I believe

 

Fisher Pond itself, covered with leaves and pollen…I think.

A little caterpillar, crawling around.  I took this picture with my iPad mini, after failing to get these awesome details with my Canon Rebel T3i. I stayed next to me for quite some time on a bench overlooking the pond. I felt a had a little friend for that time..

Another blue damselfly, I believe. These things fluttered in small groups by the pond.

 

An odd arrangement, one of many noticeable’ along side the outer area of the trail. Some were much longer, some bent. This one was shorter, but sweet in its presentation. I was unsure if these are natural in design, or some man-made manipulation. But either way, I think is pretty cool.

An old chair in the distance, by Bank Road. I wonder when the last time someone sat upon that chair. Now, I think it’s work is done and has been left here to retire..

Another countryside view, on my way back to the small town of Vashon.

– Orion T

Ferris Wheelin on the Seattle Waterfront..

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From the weekend before, as the big thrill of that moment should have been documented much sooner..

The view here, on the first rotation part my 20-30 minute ride on the Seattle Great Wheel. Shot taken from my cellphone. Below are more low-res shots, where I share the heightened sense of moving on a giant crazy contraption.. I had a friend with me, who kind of freaked out in the beginning. I however, love scary heights and felt an excitement rush. Also, I enjoyed these new views of my familiar surroundings. This was also my first time ever on a large Ferris wheel, of many I will do again in my future. Hooray, for new simple joys in life.

Wheee!

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– Orion T

Pictures of Saturday 5/2/15, Waterfront Blue

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Finally, time to relax..

A lot of us had a rough week. Some more than others. A huge protest involving more than 10,000 people in Baltimore happened last week, over the untimely death of Freddie Gray. The death was later ruled a homicide, with six involved police officers charged. A riot also broke, leading to urban chaos Baltimore.

In other parts of the country, many experienced some first world problems. Multiple theaters sold out on seats for the opening day of the Avengers: Age of Ultron movie. Some were not looking forward to the disappointment and waste of money spent on the Mayweather vs Pacquiao fight.

In Seattle, I just wanted to be me. For that, I was hoping to leave the citylife for a day and enjoy some outdoor adventure surrounded by trees and shrubbery. But the errand-doings squandered much of the day, so I instead decided to use the good time leftover by the ol Seattle city waterfronts. The weather was beautiful, and the atmosphere cheery. Here are some highlights of that time…

051 copyThe entrance to the Seattle Aquarium. I love this sign. I should go in, someday. I promise to take pictures when I do..

060 copyA local street performer act. He drew a lot of attention among the locals and tourists. Not so much for the unicorn head, but also for being quiet good with his drum beats on the buckets..

067 copyWhile looking for a restroom, I stumbled upon a second floor food court on Pier 57, of which I did not know existed. It’s a cozy spot for those who like local junk food and cool neon signs.

070 copyI love neon signs. The bigger and more, the better.

074 copyBack outside Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel continues to thrill. I remember not liking this much when the attraction first opened in 2012. Now, I have gotten used to it and appreciate the cheer it spreads.

073 copySome free reading material, as it was “Free Comic Book Day” on May 2nd. I partook in a comic store visit that day. I found a nice seat by the waterfront., and enjoyed them.

085 copyLater on at Pier 62/63..the nice wide open wood area. There is a ping-pong table that I have never seen used for ping-pong. Still, it’s there and looks oddly cool in the sunlight.

2015-05-02 19.49.26A look at a tiny boat, using an extra lens mounted at Pier 66.

091 copyA look at the water, before I go. I promise to take more pics of the water on my next stroll through here.

– Orion T

Pictures of Saturday 4/25/15, Seattle Center Daze..

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I did some local exploring around the Space Needle.That was my spontaneous little adventure in the later daylight end for yesterday. Here are some pics…

004 copyThe rooftop view, a nice day for fluffy clouds and a good walk..

018 copyThe monorail through the local Experience Music Project museum..

019Up and above..

017 copyA new playground here. The paint is fresh. The playground will be open to the public next month sometime…

007 copySame playground but from a different fence. I may have filtered it a bit too much in the Photoshop touch up edit, but I really liked the lines. I wanted to make sure you noticed..

013 copyThe same playground from another closed off entrance.. It’s a little crazy, and seems dangerous.

011A little more about that..

025 copyAnother look at the Space Needle, from a mid-Spring point of view…

024 copyA little birdie hopping around..

032 copyThe John T Williams Honor Pole, carved by his brother (Rick L. Williams) to honor John and his long family generations of carving. John T. Williams was the seventh generation Nitinaht carver of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. He died in 2010, from multiple gunshot wounds fired from a Seattle police officer. For more on that story, click here. Thanks to donations and public support, this totem pole remains close to the Space Needle, for all to appreciate.

051 copyThat is all for now. I depart the Seattle Center, and walk through the Bill and Melinda Gates Visitor Center. There is much else of visual interest around here. However, I will save that adventure for another day..

– Orion T

Pictures of Yesterday 4/11/15, Spring Rained

 

Yesterday, was one of the simple days.

 I sat on a wet bench in front of the Apple Store, somewhere in the Univeristy District of Seattle. I was a bit early for my “Genius Bar” appointment, to see to a small problem with my mobile tablet. I looked for anything around me, that wasn’t based on commercialization and our addictions to technology. The sky welcomed my sight more than the flashy allure of that new Apple Watch on display. I enjoyed the solid gray for most of that time in wait.. Then, coming back down to Earth..I noticed more people on my bench. A child was sitting backwards, looking behind the bench, to the colorful small garden behind almost touching the back of my head. There, I admired the beautiful, colorful flowers, still dripping from the recent pouring rains. 

Then, I took a few pictures (featured below). I do not know the classification on these flowers. Any help in the comments is welcome.

   

 

  

The “Genius Bar” appointment went well. As usual, I get wonderful service from Apple when needed.

– Orion T

Outside Memories of the 2015 Sakura-Con..

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I love these fandom gatherings.

Recently, I joined among the many in colorful costumes for the celebration of an interesting sub-culture. Here, together to celebrate their love for the Japanese anime/manga; including related games, art and lit. The  grand show inside (of which I was unable to attend) was the great Sakura-Con, held annually in Seattle’s downtown convention center. The outside show in the back park area stretching some blocks, is a fan driven compliment to the event.

I spent good time outside the event in the back park area, there to meet up with old visiting friends. While around, I had great fun, cheering on the celebrated icons of Japan’s contributions to pop-culture, and learned much on the new popular trends of today’s “otaku” faire.

I took some pictures with two cameras. The sunny weather was perfect for that, adding vividness to the amazing array of colorful attires. Here below, with notes:

Photo Apr 04, 12 11 42 PMDressed as characters from an anime/manga TV show, Cardcaptor Sakura.

Photo Apr 06, 5 57 16 PMA giant handmade Pokemon creature, made by the mohawked person in the back. Many cheered on this giant creature.

Photo Apr 04, 2 17 58 PMLink and a fairy (from a later game I think, of which I have yet to play)..from the Legend of Zelda series

Photo Apr 05, 7 26 39 PMWaLuigi, brother to Wario. Not sure who the other us.

Photo Apr 05, 7 29 05 PMVegeta and Piccolo perform the fusion dance. I am not a big fan of Dragonball Z, yet have been enough of the fandom to pick up on this stuff.

Photo Apr 05, 7 27 05 PMGodzilla!!

Photo Apr 04, 5 02 52 PMFrom the worlds of the Walter Robot studios, of which I know very little. I know for sure, this make-up job is awesome.

Photo Apr 07, 7 10 25 AMJokers and Harley Quinns. They are not of the Japanese culture origins, but they fit well as the anime/manga altpop culture welcomes all fantasy, sci-fi, superhero, etc genres of creative storytelling.

Photo Apr 07, 7 14 27 AMNot sure who she is from but that makeup job and costume detail is phenomenal.

Photo Apr 07, 12 40 52 PMVash the Stampede and Wolfwood, crossplayed from the classic Trigun anime series. This brings love and peace to my heart, to see fans bring life to one of my fav series of years ago.

Photo Apr 07, 7 12 09 AMThese players are from the Yu-Gi-Oh game and anime franchise. Well done!

Photo Apr 05, 7 39 06 PMI think she is from a newer show called RWBY. Not sure, but nice detail.

Photo Apr 05, 7 30 48 PMAn odd traditional game played every year here during the show. This involves a large circle, where those inside the circle kick around a bottle. The bottle points to someone in the circle, signalling for a walk and a hug to that person. That person replaces and fronts to the middle of the circle, to repeat the circle. There are some various chants and songs that sometimes happen.

Photo Apr 04, 1 18 17 PMCharacters from the long-running One Piece anime/manga series. The fandom of this was so huge, that a separate gathering far in the back of the park happened; where fans put on their own cosplay show.

Photo Apr 04, 2 04 58 PM Photo Apr 04, 2 03 10 PMA small portion of a massive League of Legends gathering (based on a very popular video game). The fandom and dedication to this astounds me.

Photo Apr 05, 7 34 17 PMSome fun under a bridge, which I helped with for a friend (in the bunny suit). Here, many enjoyed a hop scotch game for to promote her Android dating/social meet-up app, Cuddli..

Photo Apr 04, 2 10 14 PMAnother character from League of Legends, I think. I like this shot.

Photo Apr 05, 7 40 55 PMA wild Pokemon spotted!

Photo Apr 07, 7 06 34 AMFrom the anime series, RWBY. Note: Monty Oum, the animator and creator of RWBY and many short films I admired, passed away last year at the age of 33. His work lives on with the fans.

Photo Apr 05, 7 36 01 PMNot sure on this series..but I like the craftsmanship.

Photo Apr 04, 4 59 19 PMA lady adorned with many Moogles (from the Final Fantasy video games). I hope they are clingy, and not dead..heheh.

Photo Apr 06, 5 51 20 PMLara Croft, as portrayed in a recent and very gritty retcon of the Tomb Raider game franchise.

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Well, that’s all for now. I had a huge blast for the one day of three  (I only had the time for, and why I didn’t go for a pass to the grander show inside). I give a huge thanks to all those who shared the joys of their fandoms, with the cosplay and cheers. Good times shared, are the best times.

– Orion T

Memories of an Emerald City Comic Con (2015)

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I love a good comic convention, and any geek-out gathering of a similar nature. For me, it’s all about my comic/graphic novel appreciations, and all the connecting fantasy and science fiction driven art. To be among the creatives, and to converse with them is a complex joy that never ends for me.

I also enjoy the thrill of a good hunt, to peek through the exhibit floors.Through the aisles I explore the artist alleys, company booths, dealer tables, and demo stops. I take much with me. All including (but not limited to) my personal favorite things to take home are: sketches, cheap loose figures, vintage magazines, bargain comics (including graphic novels, trade paperbacks), special edition exclusives, free swag, samples, and the occasional new thing an exhibitor successfully pitched .

I also take home some interesting memories, and fun sights. I love taking pictures of people and happenings, to treasure the shows further. Every convention over the last 20 years (lost count of how many of these now), has had something special. I often meet someone new, or see some interesting gathering. I meet an admired creator, or listen to the words of some interesting celebrity to the realms of geek. This is all great fun.

Here are some wonderful memories of this Emerald City Comic Con (my third attended) for 2015.

IMG_3905The gathering of Spider-Man and related Marvel Comics cosplayers. Among them were many Deadpools, and some Spider-Gwens (a new character to the Marvel Universe, long story), and a classic Electro (a personal fav to my childhood cartoon viewing).

IMG_3894I noticed an abundance of loose action figure toys. Much of which I feel somewhat amused, that an appreciation of plastic detailing and articulated mobility could still be a fun novelty, in my grown-up years.

IMG_3945Paul Tobin (writer) and Colleen Cloover (artist), of the Bandette comics; a personal favorite (and highly recommended) series of a whimsical super-hero thief. Both a married couple hosting their own booth, and a joy to meet.

IMG_3940Long Vo and Joe Ng, at the Udon Booth. Both, drawing two video game favorites; Mega Man and Akuma (Street Fighter). I cam back at short times a bit later to see what they were up to. Both very friendly, and put much love into their work

IMG_3951Christopher Pike, and Harry Mudd cosplay; from the Classic Star Trek series.

Photo Mar 29, 12 19 10 PMI love seeing comic book covers of different areas on display and in boxes. There is an awesome nostalgic beauty to all this.

IMG_3910-0DC Comics “Bombshell” versions of Wonder Woman, Black Canary, Harley Quinn, and Batwoman. All brought to life, from a series of variant comic covers showing the heroines with vintage pulp cover twists. Well done.

Photo Mar 29, 1 40 54 PMAlana and Marko cosplayers, from the Saga comics series. Saga (by Fiona Staple and Brian K. Vaughan) is the best sci-fantasy comic series currently released on the shelves now.

IMG_3930A vintage Batman playset still in the box. Will Batman save Robin in time, or will the Joker have the last laugh?

IMG_3947Jim Mahfood, an admired artist over my last two decades of comic reading. He is the perfect match for the new Tank Girl series coming out. He also drew me a cool Batman sketch.

IMG_3936And here, are the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Seattle is safe for now!

IMG_3880Doctor Doom vs. Judge Dredd. Place your bets!

IMG_3899They let me go, after showing them the droids they were looking for.

IMG_3924Sailor Scouts, crossplayin

Photo Mar 28, 11 15 37 AMThe Gundam Wing 1/100 Endless Waltz model kits. Not shown is my favorite, Duo Maxwell and his Deathscythe Hell Custom.

Photo Mar 30, 7 32 42 AMA new Mega Man figure coming from Bluefin toys. Multi-articulated with LED lights, and pop-out compartments. This was originally promoted as a Kickstarter campaign for fans, now with all goals met.

Photo Mar 30, 7 29 13 AMThe Image Comics booth, once again standing tall as my favorite current comics publisher.

Photo Mar 28, 8 19 50 PMSome of the later stage cosplayers showcased that Saturday weekend night. There were many groups, with incredible detail and craftsmanship. The Troll from World of Warcraft (fifth from the left) I think won best in show.

IMG_3871On the last day and outside the convention, lucky fans got an up close performance from the D20 Brass Band. Many cheered to the Legend of Zelda theme, and other classic tunes.

IMG_3903Gotta love the some of the really geeky merch. I was seriously considering buying that Chewbacca robe in the top right corner.

Photo Mar 28, 10 36 48 AMRob McDaniel at work, sculpting with clay one of this amazing creatures. For the show, his work is inside the fantasy anthology series, Monsterpedia.

21923_10153111978863159_1712772259610341081_nMy obtained sketches on small trading card sized boards, from the show. From the top and left…Leonardo by Albert Nguyen, Batman by Jim Mahfood, Miniature Man by Steven Butler, random lady sketch by Enfu (local Seattle Artist), from the upcoming Faster Than Light augmented reality comics by Brian Haberlin (Anomaly) Inspector Belgique by Colleen Cloover (from Bandette), and Gyro Gearloose by Don Rosa!

IMG_3939Well, that’s all for now, with Gender Bender taking us out.

Until the next Con (probably San Diego in the summer)..

– Orion T

Picture of Today 3/14/15, DeLorean Delights

Today at the nearby Seattle Center by the great Needle, I came across these timeless vehicular beauties.

These original DeLorean DMC-12 vehicles, with its design very familiar to those Back to the Future movie fans; parked together for public appreciation. The rear engine, the stainless steel armor, the roomy interior, winged doors, and the design sleek enough for time travel; all part of the fantastic charm that makes the DeLorean very widely appreciated.

These Deloreans were brought into view by the Pacific Northwest DeLorean Club (pndc.org). I thank them very much for sharing of these marvels. I wish I could have seem them all drive through the streets of Seattle. I have seen these parked at various car shows and conventions, but never in motion. Still, I feel lucky to witness this rarity once more (approximately 9000 made), but now times five together.

Here below are some pictures. You may notice some movie references..

 

Pictures of Today 2/21/15, Almost Spring

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I kind of miss the lengthy cold and rain. Now, am not receiving much of either this winter, compared to prior years. Or maybe, I’m too used to these mild climates in the northwest US to notice these subtle changes.

But, I do feel we did not receive nearly enough this season, as compared to the years before. I wish I could visit the east US now, where snow is thick and crazy. Something different from this different would be nice; reminding me that winter is still here. Also, this year needs to slow down.

So, I took a walk with the fresh free time I had. And, made the best of this blue sky, direct sunlight with light winds between. I walked around and sat on some benches, occasionally pulling out my copy of Brandon Sanderson’s “Way of Kings.” It’s good so far, about 500 pages in (another 700 to go).

Below. are some pics for those who enjoy a good day of relaxation with light local exploration. These views are behind the Seattle downtown convention center, in that park I should spend more time in. Those cherry trees are blooming well, and much earlier than usual. Can’t wait to see what they look like when the Spring arrives, soon.

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Pictures of the Night (Part 3), The Night Stop..

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Continued from previous Part 1 and Part 2, where I lost myself in the fog and I had a strange yet short adventure. And now, I return back to the Federal Way transit station.

And I have a little time left to look around..

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And, there are others. But, not for long..

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I explore the parking structure, because it’s there. And to get a better view from above.

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Everyone is gone, almost.

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I look at the time. I best go back (bus arrives at 9:45 pm).

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and here I am again. Almost empty..

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Another one appears, than disappears.

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And the last one runs. But not too late. Here comes the bus.

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And that was all. I slept very soundly on very comfortable seat. I remember nothing else..

Picture of Today 12/6/14, Through Sculpture Park.

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Through Sculpture Park, in Seattle.

Here, was good for the later afternoon before the early dark (around 3:00 pm). The temperature was a tolerable 49 degrees with no threats of rain. The cold wind picked up a little and distressed my face, so motioning on was the best activity.

Pictures of Today 11/29/14.. of Snowy Awakenings.

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As I expected the usual to follow, I slept a longer on the night before. In the morning, I rested in bed for an hour longer; using my layers of blankets as a turtle shell. I procrastinate even further, prolonging my morning intake of granola and hot apple cider. My apartment window gives little clue to the world outside, as it faces too close to an emotionless brick wall. I suspected nothing, but a normal day. I wait, with holding onto my unexpectations.

Yet eventually, I would go for the great morning walk. And then, surprise… snow and cold winds overwhelm my senses as I leave the building entrance. And suddenly, there was laughter in the distance of children running in the distance. The bluest of skies, missed from the days of conquering greys. I see these remnants of a snowy wonderland, with the city gardenscapes and roofs of unmoved vehicles saving the last largest clusters of snowfall. I felt bewildered, and unadjusting to this sudden drop in temperature. I ask to the neighbor standing aside, puffing on a cigarette, “how long and how much did I miss this?!”

“All night, and some this morning..”

Heh, was all I thought. Not so much the disappoint as I rarely see snow; but I feel a sort of sureness of what world I would wake up to. The morning was almost gone, and snowfall clearly ended. But thankfully, there was much of it still around for me to take a very long and worthwhile walk.

The color of leaves and sudden rush of sunlight brought uniqueness to this morning. The snow was just enough for nature to peek through in places, bringing the a heightened ambiance and surreality to what I find otherwise usual and expected; yet peaceful and adaptive.

So, I am happy to catch this time and place..perhaps the most important potentially missed should I have stayed inside further on. Here are some moments to pass on, in thanks to this world for waiting up..

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Picture of Today 11/8/14

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Just another night in Seattle.

The view is always fantastic from Pier 66. And looking toward, I admire the fresh lights renewing life in the city, preparing for each unpredictable long fall night ahead. Behind me there sets the sun again, but never quite the same in sight as the other evenings. Here was that view, from the other direction…

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