Sunday, July 25, 2010

Updates, and Yes I'm still there. :P

I do apologize for not posting anything for over a month now. Got hooked up with Skype and building more kits. haha.

I do have my flickr photostream up there and you'll see uploaded pics of what I've been doing.

If you find this blogspot before my youtube channel, please check that one as I usually update that more than this blog. As well as, visit the gundam forum I frequently go to, www.gundam-eclipse.com

As for Gunpla updates....

- I'm painting my SD GG Gundam kits. I think I've painted 3 already...a couple more to go.
- Going to pick up my papercraft diorama project started awhile back.
- Need to do a couple more SD reviews, as well as the Advanced Hazel and Hrairoo Gaplant.

My contest is about to end soon next week. Still hoping to see more entries.

,,V,^_^,V,,

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Going to be a bumpy ride...

Things will get crazy lately... I didn't quite make it to one job i'm hoping for to get in. But luckily I do get an opportunity to apply for another position. On the other hand, I'm leaving my part-time job due to certain reasons which I will not fully disclose, but to give you an idea...I don't like the working atmosphere. There's also another job opportunity that I have take a test as well next month. I have a couple of lines casted....but something tells me I need to bring a huge net to catch something, heck I'll even settle for a mackerel but a salmon would be awesome.

Gunpla....

I'm close to hitting 200, just check I have 199 subs. lol. Hmm... maybe time for subscriber's special--a contest!! hehe.

A lot of things happend since last time I posted. Not sure where to start. hmm...

Seems like I'm getting more subscribers and a lot of 'em really like reviews. I'm very thankful. ^_^ I do find it difficult to thank all of the recent ones, there's so many... I'm starting to think I should stop doing that and just make a video thank them in general. But deep down...I want to thank each and every single one of them. It's just a matter of time. haha.

Hmm... I wonder what kit to open next. There's the Tenshio Shiba-I Sazabi (probably mispelled. lol) I might do that one. Also, my sister (the older one) wants to give SD gunpla a chance. Might let her start on a kit that was supposedly for my other sister, SD Gundam Leopard.

I'm also finding that I still can't control my impulse gunpla buying...which is really bad considering what i've mentioned above relating to my part-time job. Maybe I should create a penalty if I do go on impulse again.... I was thinking of hosting a contest--meaning I'll lose one of my kits in the process O_o each time I break my promise (lol that rhymes). But we'll see, might be too daring. haha.

On other things...

Got a couple of upcoming tests for jobs. Need to get cracking on those.

Also I need to redeco my room to be more presentable....make it my "pad" haha. I'll probably end up doing garage or online sale of my stuff (well except for gunpla. :P)

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Promise is a Promise

I've been having this problem since I can remember. I keep commiting to promises that I know down the road I'll break one way or another. But I do keep most of my promises, but we usually find the small amount of false promises outweighing the rest.

I promise myself with Vek as my witness (lol.) that I'll hold off my gunpla purchase for the sake of my wallet's health and to trim down my backlog. Unfortunately, I made a promise to a fellow SD Gundam enthusiast that I'll get him this SD kit that's hard to get in his area nor the interwebs (actually it'll be a gift for him for his upcoming bday. Ain't I nice? :P ) So now my predicament of holding those two promises. I could argue that I'm buying the SD kit for someone and not for me. lol. But the place I'm getting it at has that "buy one full price, 2nd half off" deal. It'll be hard to resist to not get another kit to avail for the discount. I could buy another one and use that as a price for my upcoming contest on my youtube channel (which still under formulation. hehe) But then again, I already have a spare SD NT-1 Alex that I can use as the prize (which I think is one of the best SD kits out there.) We'll see how it goes as I visit the hobbystore to acquire the sd kit as I've promised.

Gunpla...
- I'm working on a kits for about 3 days painting 'em. I've finished 1 and almost done with the other. I do however reviewed 2 (one of which i finished awhile back) on my youtube page. I'll be finishing that another one and as well as work on mobile goohn.

- Funny how there's more attention towards the SD Onimitsu Ninja Naomaru (#279) than the SD Bukiri Maru (#250) which I put more effort on. lol. It has to be the shiny gold plating. :P

- I'll be making more SD 4Koma as well as comics (more than 4 panels). Stay tune for those.

- Unboxing another kit. I'll probably find one that doesn't require painting that much as I've exhausted myself. lol.

- I'm also getting curious of getting some SD gundam gashapons... I wonder if anyone will be willing to trade some of 'em for stikfas kits. hehe.

Other things:
- I'll be celebrating my sister's graduation this upcoming weekend. Which reminds me, I need to fix her computer.
- My knee still hurts a little bit, can't wait for it to fully heal so I can run again.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Camping Trip

I had an interesting first time experience camping with my family and friends at Pinecrest. It's really fun especially if the group you're in is huge. The trip going there is quite exhaustive as it's 3 hours just sitting and waiting. I did bring a gundam kit, advance hazel, with me to work on. I manage to finish the main body by the time I arrive there, and work on accessories sometime in the afternoon while waiting for dinner.

I actually don't know what to expect to a camping trip. I thought there would be more pesky bugs bothering me. But there's hardly, well there's on occassion minute spiders that will drop down on you. lol. I don't mind them, if I have it would just drive me crazy. I did find cool, creepy and interested bugs which i took a digital macro shots with my camera. I also took some nature shots with my SD Gundams: Alex and Zaku. hehe. Having a nature as a background does make the kits more epic. ^_^

I also had fun playing with the kids over there. One of 'em is really good in chess, which i got 'pwned' a couple of times, I only beat him once when he went easy on me. haha. We also had a fun time chowing down on grilled shrimps covered in garlic sauce and other yummy dishes brought by one family. Actually each family pitched in to a meal, my family was set for the next day's lunch. As most camping goes, we also had a campfire and melted some marshmallows. I find it easier to toast 'em near the edge of the ember, as suppose to the top. I got quite a sugar rush that night, which followed by a drowsy state afterwards. lol.

One thing i forgot to bring was a flashlight. It was so dark and there's only a handful of light source. The light from the cellphone was okay, but still a bit difficult to manage with. Good thing my dad brought his. It's a bit difficult to sleep at night. I'm actually used to sleeping at the ground, so no problem there. I had my own tent and I slept with luna, our chihuahua. She has a tendency to snuggle near your neck. I initially had her inside my jacket wrap near my body and arms. But she manage to crawl up to my sleeves and to my shoulder. lol. It was cold that night, good thing I like cold. But from time to time I hear my family talk, I guess they can't sleep due to the temperature or something.

Then my dad start calling Luna. O_o. She sprung out from my jacket and tried to get out of the tent. I tried a couple of times to calm her and put her back in, but no avail. I eventually asked my dad to pick her up...lol. The following morning it's quite cold and a bit moist from the morning dew. They're already starting breakfast and another day for my camping trip.

Overall, I really like my camping experience. We'll do it again this coming September. I'll be sure to bring my flashlight and maybe more gunpla. hehe.


Gunpla:
- I finished working on my SD Zaku Eggplane. Quite happy how it turned out. ^_^
- I'll be making my 4Koma (4 panel comic) using my SD kits for Z's contests (gunpla-inochi.com)
- Soon I'll be painting DokkanMaru
- I'll also be doing some vids later tonight regarding the gashapon djinn (i think that's what it's called).
- Still waiting for the result of 2old4toys contest. I hope I win. hehe.

Other things:
- I need to fix my schedule....need to find a way to limit my gunpla to at the most 1-2 hours per night and not the whole night. lol.
- Need to work on fixing my sister's computer...
- Also I need to contact my cousin and friend to play Magic: The Gathering this weekend.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

My Visit at Vektar's

It's actually my first time to meet an online friend. hehe. I've only known Vek from gundam-eclipse.com forum as well as talk at skype. He's a really nice guy and shares similar views as me, which is quite nice as we're usually on the same page. hehe. Since he's near my area compared to other GE members, I decided to go visit him and have a little gunpla building session. I always wanted to share my kits to my immediate friends, but none shares the same passion as I have. Well now, I have at least one friend that I have shared a kit with. ^_^

Vek's place is quite nice, he lives near the center of the city and convenient to go around places. I got greeted by two of their family chihuahua, there's bebe and forgot the guy's name. lol. Then in his room, which is in spacious and in order- I really need to fix my room one of these days. haha. I finally saw his Master Grades which nicely display on top of his huge HD TV. I also get a glimpsed of what the gundam series looks like in blu ray, I must say it's epic watching in HD.

We then decided to grab a bite out and check the locals, there's an ongoing anime convention. But we forgot our camera. d'oh. We went to a gourmet pizza place and stuffed ourselves with this awesome pizza that has thai chicken, shitake mushroom, garlic sauce and cilantro on one side then a ham and pineapple with other seasoning at the other half. We then set off to check the local hobby stores. Found some great old kits on the first one. Then we went off to check out D&J Hobby (I think that's the name) and got modelling supplies. I got myself a hobby knife, fine grit sandpaper, and Tamiya paints for my upcoming Banshee customs. ^_^

We went back and started building SD kits, I shared my 2nd SD Cobra Maru. I also brought one of my SD and we did a Built Challenge on who'll build it first. I didn't realize that i have less parts and thus finished earlier than him. We also played a bit of Versus games on his PS3. I got pwned a bit in Tekken 5. lol.

Overall, it's a fun experience. I finally able to share my hobby with someone in person which I rarely get a chance to. I wish to find more ppl around my area willing to hang out. But I will definitely visit Vektar in the near future, g2g back to that pizza place. lol.

Thanks again Vek for an awesome day checking out stores around your area and having fun with gunpla.

,,V,^_^,V,,

(and now off to a camping trip for two days. lol)

Friday, May 28, 2010

I finally finished my Custom Entry: SS Gundam


SD Super Saiyan Gundam:


I finally finished it yesterday. ,,V,^_^,V,,

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Why do some always want to get ahead of others? (crab mentality)

I find it silly at times hearing or seeing someone trying to get ahead of others by inflicting some sort of harm or problem to the victim. I'm not going to point out names but, here's an example. There's a schedule street cleaning every week at a certain time of that day. Sometimes it falls at morning, quite early for some. lol. You have to make sure you don't park at that side of the street else you'll get a citation. I know someone who will diligently monitor the streetsweeper car if it passed by, so that the car can be parked back in front of the house. One day, there's a car that wasn't moved. This person saw the citing 'officer' (usually on those 3 wheeled motorcycle/car vehicle) coming to check who hasn't move their car yet. Being proud and all that his car is already out of 'harms' way (parked on the opposite side) and there's this one car left on that block that he purposely call the attention of the citing officer. I didn't get the details on how it went, but from what i can infer the citing officer didn't cite the car and just passed by. Now you wonder why? It's actually a government car. lol. No point citing a gov't car if funds ends up back to them.

But it does make you wonder why did the person want to bring trouble for someone. Is that person trying to be a firm law abiding citizen, even at the cost of his neighbor's time and money? I mean he could just not do anything as the officer pass by, and if it did get cited then that's the neighbor's fault. But purposely pointing at what seems to be obvious...are you trying to be a snitch? Good thing nobody saw him, well not sure if someone did. But you'll be creating enemies that way and will be labelled forever as the neighbor's "snitch." So why did that person do that? Does it give him gratitude that he's able to point someone out? Why? Sometimes my people are labelled with "crab mentallity," someone who purposely drag others down so he/she can get on top. I for one refuse to believe that and quite dismayed being stereotyped with that behavior, cause I'm not. I know for the fact that this person hates ppl that have that mentality, which in return makes him a "hipo" ~hypocrite. He's breaking the golden rule, "do to others what you want them to do to you." lol. Which is quite sad to live like that.


Anways Gundam Updates:
- SD Gundam stop motion....done. Quite happy how it turned out. I'm able to put 3 transformation on one clip. hehe. I did made a mistake, but overall i'm satisfied. It does have a lot of room for improvement. hehe.

- SD Gundam/DBZ crossover... slowly working on it. Due this friday >_<. Hopefully I can finish it by then. I'll be adding yellow/gold tonight.

- I unboxed mobile kapool. I really wish they make a HG or even a MG of that kit. Still thinking of a good color scheme.

- Zaku Eggplane...still no progress on this one. Probably work on it next week.

- Might do another unboxing video...hmm which kit to open next? lol

Other things:
- I'm still debating of whether i should post my origami plane tutorial.

- hmm...what to do for memorial day weekend.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Trying out new things...

I recently got a haircut. Got a lot of compliments about it. hehe. I guess I should visit the barber more often to keep my hair short and neat. I'm actually hoping to impress this girl that I like though not sure how she feels about me yet, she's really 'friendly' among her friends including me. hehe. Maybe I need to start shedding some weight as well, might take awhile. haha. I also need to find a way to spend more time with her. I don't really want to do the usual dating thing with dinners, movies and so on. Maybe take a summer class with her? I think she's taking some dance lessons. I'm a novice in dancing but would be great to learn to dance with her. hehe. Maybe invite her to go running or exploring. I'll think of something.

Gunpla...let's see...

I've review two kits which I've painted one of them.

Stop motion. It's kinda cool, though need to have a storyboard and work out the effects/gimmicks. Probably more test vids.
Stop motion Ideas:
- "Zakuto" rasengan w/ kagebunshin and hitting the wall or enemy. I need to create the razengan sphere as well.
- Weapon shooting and hitting. I need to find a way for cotton to stick w/o peeling off the paint off my kits. hmm...thinking of using post-its.
- Masurao whipping around his beam Katanas. The beam hilts (no beam effect yet) will be held by an electric wire on one end. Masurao will whirl them around and when it's full stretched, the beam katanas will be emitted.)
- SD Gundam Transformations...I have tons of SD's with cool transformations: Zeta, Unicorn, Baki Maru, Cho Shogun Touga, Aegis, and many more. lol.

I finally assembled SD Unicorn, I'll do my impression/review on it this week.

SD Gundam/DBZ crossover, I'm starting to dread this lingering WIP. lol. I'm not even sure I can pull it off, but we'll see.

Zaku Eggplane... Might be something I'll work on later this week.

Other things:
- I'm enjoying my new camera, though I can't edit my videos. But I'm able to stich them together which ain't bad. Might also do some Slideshow using WMM. Ohh almost forgot, I need to do some HD vids (raw vid upload), which probably last only 2min. (again with the 500mb upload limit) lol.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Decisions...decisions....decisions...

Sometimes it's really hard to decide on things, especially if you always feel that you might regret it later on. Deciding if I want to eat at an all-you-can eat sushi buffet, but later feel too full and sleepy. lol. Well not that kind of decision but more about life. I've this decision to make of whether I help save lives or protect/destroy it. Since my career is not getting anywhere at this time, my parents tries to persuade me to try other things. I could go back to school and study 'nursing' as the medical field seems to be booming today. Or I could join the military and get training to become an engineer. Either options have pros and cons which I have to weigh out the one best suited for me.

Another decision I have to go through is with relationship. I really find this one friend really cute. She's quite friendly and charming. I had a relationship before which didn't end well...which kinda leads me to the whole "isolation after university". lol. Note to self...try not to stick to just one (best)friend, it's hell when you lose that person. Anyways, back to the girl that I like. I get to hang out with her with our group of friends. We did went to the same high school and I guess we're back again after college/university. I wanted to ask her out on a movie but failed. lol I guess she thought we're going with the rest of our friends, which I let it be. We didn't go to the movies but did play this fun boardgame and had a blast laughing all night. Also, I was informed that movies aren't best for first date as there isn't really much interaction. Maybe it's a blessing in disguise that the plan didn't go through? hehe. I really wanted to know her more, but just don't know what to do. haha. One of our friends, did mention that she's probably not interested in me and that's just her nature of being friendly. That friend might be right about her, but I still want to try till I hear from her personally. It's a nice feeling to like someone and be like back.

Gundam Updates:
- I finally reached 100+ subscribers. *pat at the back* lol.
- HG 1/144 Masurao...done. I'm really happy how it turned out. ^_^
- 2old4toys contest entry... I really need to get myself together to work on this.
- I'll unbox another SD kit later this week. Might open the one with the cute bug. hehe.

My thoughts about the Gundam 00 theme contest:
- I was hoping I win the contest. I really wanted to get the 1/144 Flag kit. hehe. The winner did an awesome job painting the Tieren kit. Then there's actually a consolation prize and I thought maybe I'll get picked, but not as well. My impression of the contest is to pick a gundam not from the 00 theme and customized it to make it fit the line. Both winners have 00 gundam kits. I also thought that idea put into customizing the kit counts not just how good your paint job is, as other judges have mentioned on their video. I did put a lot of thought in making my kit, adding LED's, incorporating my origami plane, and transformations. I also think I had a good concept idea for a GN drive (or 'ZK' drive. hehe) But I guess, the winners were picked by the host. I have a hunch he got persuaded by the diorama. hehe. Furthermore, The winner gets another Tieren...lol. Actually, If I win the SD kit I'll be very happy, I don't have that kit yet. Also, I would like to hear his thoughts about my custom "Zeekay" as other judges. Would be nice to get recognize. hehe. I think my real competitor in that contest is the other entry with the God Gundam, it's an awesome custom/kitbash. I don't hold it against the decision, afterall the contest is his and he gets to make the rules. Though If i know it's about the paintwork, I could've gotten a FG and customized it like what i did with my Strike. ^_^

Other things:
- I need to edit my origami plane tutorial
- I'll be unboxing Hasegawa's Eggplane (Thunderbolt) ^_^

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Growing up....

Sometimes I wonder how old I really am. Seems like it's yesterday that I would study for an exam in high school. I even remember way back when I'm enjoying my handheld radio while I relax on top of a bunkbed on a sunny afternoon (I was 8). I have this uncanny tendency to recall things in the past and yet I have a mediocre short-term memory (I can't remember phone numbers nor names if i don't refer to them often enough). But once I've known and use that person's name and phone number, remarkably I'll remember it (I still remember a couple of my classmate's names when I was 10 yrs. old).

Maybe I'm a slow learner? Takes awhile for things to sink in? I did excel in Math and Science in my curriculars. Or better yet refuse to accept what is now? Maybe that's the case. I do tend to resist change sometimes, especially if it's something of a habit.

I still look like a teenager, with or without the added facial hair. lol. But I think I've grown quite a bit in terms of thinking/analysing things and situation. A friend of mine always wonder how I can point a different perspective when shared a problem with me. I guess I should thank another 'friend' for that, learned quite a lot from her and she always been more mature than me.

I guess I'm just scared to grow up. It's not really about the responsibilites, cause I'm able to cope up with them lately. But I guess there's certain unresolve things in past or maybe I just enjoy being a teenager. I think they're right when they say "high school is the best years...", it's true for most but not all.

Trying to find a way to snap myself out of this dillusion. I'm actually glad that I'm learning a great deal with reviewing kits in youtube. In some ways it help me to communicate better and prepare beforehand. I actually recommend it to anyone to do reviews, and it could be about anything. It's a good transition/start to public speaking and doing presentation. Maybe they should have a class for that. lol.

I also need to find another inspiration to get myself back to my career. For one, I do need to get a good paying job to support my family as I've been "freeloading" for some time now. I guess it's a combination of rejection and economic recession that I sorta give up looking for a job. It's quite a dismay for trying a couple of months and not getting anywhere. I'm probably doing something wrong, maybe i'm not qualified or i'm applying to the wrong industry or both. lol. I am trying again to apply to job opportunities. Hopefully they'll consider 'Meads'. hehe.

And lastly, maybe it's whom you hang out with. Since I came back from college, I haven't really made any new friends (well except internet friends. lol) I catch up with my highschool friends which is nice. But friends from college, we went on our separate ways--I still talk to some of 'em. I did have that isolation phase after college. I can't really go out due to lack of funds (no money) or finding people who shares the same interests that I do. I turned to the internet for that and found great friends (varying ages) But still would be nice to have actual friends that you can meet in person. I guess blaming "lack of money" is a lame excuse. I don't really need to spend a significant amount of money to hang out with friends. Hmm... just need to find a place to meet new people. It's always been easy to do that in school, but I guess it's a challenge now that I'm not.

Gundam Updates and Reviews:
~ I started reviewing the chibi SD's. I'll do another unboxing tonight.

~ I need to get working on my custom for 2old4toys' contest. lol.

~ Thinking of building my 1/144 Masurao as a little break to my usual SD's.

~ Might review another Stikfas kit. We'll see...

Other things:
~ Quite tempted to get the Hasegawa eggplanes sooner. I've been planning to get it when the D-style Glint comes out, but that's late June. But got to think about my backlogs and my WIP's. lol.

~ I need a new belt. The current one i'm using is about to snap in half.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Who am I without my wallet? 0_o

(as homer puts it) D'oh!! I forgot my wallet. Good thing my mom and I takes the BART at the same time in the morning. I wanted to go back and get my wallet, but my mom reassured me I don't need it. She asks this questions..."Are you going to drive?... Do you need money? I can lend you some." Which she is right, I won't be driving and I can borrow money enough for today. (note: other question she could've asked "Are you going to go drinking?" which of course she wouldn't :P. lol) My mom is always been there for me, I'm lucky to have her. ^_^

But sometimes don't you just feel you lost your identity or can't function if you forgot your wallet or even your cellphone(I didn't forget this one. hehe) It's like you got to have 'em just in case of emergency or other things that might need them.

Gundam Updates:

Zeta w/ decals....done.

100th Video SD collection...done. I'm close to 100 subscribers...what to do? lol.

SD Gunner Zaku Warrior...done. Finally got those three finished (well still need to add finer details later on...maybe even customs.)

I'll be unboxing one of the chibi SD gundams tonight as well do one stikfas review (probably the robot one.)

I'm also thinking of discussing Youtube's "other channel" option. I find it very helpful for other reviewers out there to get subs.


Other Things:

GSAM just updated their inventory. I'll probably get my SD Unicorn Gundam there if it's not sold out by tomorrow. Waiting for them to update the monthly/club specials tomorrow as well to complete my list.

Planning to get a new camera....but it'll cost quite a hefty $$ on my part. About $150+ for a decent Canon Digital camera. I'm waiting for this particular site to go on sale...maybe Memorial day Weekend? Kinda weird day to celebrate a sale. lol.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

Just when you think you can ship something out...

I really want to ship this package out. I wanted to do it last Thursday, but it turns out the postal service close down early. Can't really do it on Friday as I'm out all day at work. Saturday comes, the closest one is closed on weekends & holidays. T_T Went to the main postal office, but found out it's already closed by the time i got there. Sigh... And to complicate things, I need to get some packaging material to send it off. Don't really want to depend on my dad to do it. He's quite oblivious on my hobby, or actually a lot of ppl around me do. haha. I'll try to package it some way and ask if he can ship it Monday. I apologize if it's taking awhile, "J". but rest assure it will get there eventually.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

A feeling you're forgetting something...

Starts out like any regular day... wake up, take a shower, put clothes on, and get ready for work/intern. I went to grab my usual iced coffee (got it right this time, I really need to start making this at home to save $$. lol). Then, I just realized...I'm not wearing any long sleeves shirt. O_o I remembered putting a shirt on, followed by wearing my long sleeve shirt w/ stripes, then my jacket. But I'm missing my long sleeves, just my shirt inside... Well I guess it's better than forgetting the shirt too and just have my jacket. haha. I guess i'll be wearing my jacket all day, and kinda bumped out because it's a sunny day. haha.

Let's see...

Stikfas Contest...

I've posted my Stikfas unbuilt kits collection and the contest. Apparently not a lot are interested. I'm thinking maybe nobody has heard of them? The vid probably didn't catch their attention...(Gundam updates..*click*....Stikfas Contest...*skips*....) haha. Maybe i'll mention it on my Gundam updates. On the other hand, I'm quite happy that the Youtube reviewer I asked to review Stikfas agreed. ^_^ I'll be sending the kit later on today after my intern. Probably add something special with the package. I really hope he likes it. hehe.

If i didn't get any participants on my Stikfas Contest, I'll probably extend it another week. I'm starting to think of a couple of things why there aren't many participants:

- It's too early? Maybe some watch youtube during the weekends?
- "I'm begging for subscribers with my contest" I actually got a comment along that lines. I thought about it. I usually don't ask my viewers to subscribe on most of my videos. I hardly do it. For the fact that you're entering for a chance to get a "Free kit and shipping", I think the least you can do for me is subscribe right? I usually check out the page of my new subscribers, and if I like I sub back. Also, this will help that person to get updates about the contest. Overall, I think it's a win-win situation. Or at least that's what I think.
- They don't live in US. There's actually a couple of my viewers that are in Philippines (my home country). I would like to extend my contest over there, but I'm afraid shipping will be too high or problems might occur for intl. shipping.
- "I don't do reviews" - probably another major hurdle on my contest. I really wanted for the winner to share his/her thoughts on the kit. I wouldn't mind if it contains a lot of cons. I do have a fair share of experience with Stikfas, and sometimes they are quite disappointing especially if you push their limitations.
- Another thing could be that viewers are afraid to disclose their location. I'm not going to send anything other than the stikfas kit as the prize (well maybe a bonus figure or something too. hehe.) I'm also giving you my address(return to sender address is mandatory). I don't have other means to send the prize to the winner without knowing their address. Would you want me to have the postman drop it off a corner. lol. Well there's that option too to get it pick up on the postal, but I think that's just too much trouble as suppose to have it delivered directly to his/her home.

I'm also thinking that maybe I shouldn't have put my kits on sale yet, well until I made more reviews of 'em? I'll probably ask my viewers if they want to see more Stikfas reviews.

Gundam Updates...

I added "decals" on my SD Zeta Gundam. Well not really decals, but my scribbles that looks like decals from a far. haha. I'll share that with my viewers on my next update.

I'll create my 100th video today on my SD Collection, since it's sunny. I'm still thinking on how it's going to be.

I finished cutting off from the runner, denubbing, sanding and assembling my SD Gunner Zaku Warrior. I added most of the stickers, I'll use that as a comparison with the other painted Zaku. Stay tune for the review.

Other Things...

I'm actually quite happy there's more SD Gundam reviews and WIP vids in youtube lately. I think SD's are being underestimated because of their size and proportion, but there's a lot of possibilites with them.

I'm trying to exercise lately to shed a few pounds. I did some squats 2 days ago...whoa I'm sure feeling it today and yesterday. lol. Might resume my exercise later today. I probably need to start sleeping early to help my body rejuvinate.

I think that's about it for now. ^_^

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Ordered the wrong coffee...

I sometimes order coffee at a coffee shop near where I intern. My usual order, or for the most part, is large iced coffee w/ room (for milk). I'm quite sure i mentioned "iced" but got the regular hot coffee (still large). Maybe because I asked if they can add a hint of 'hazelnut', which cost a little more, that they think it's the hot version. I prefer my coffee cold, thinking of just letting my coffee now to chill. lol. Also, It's raining outside.

Okay, recap from last week...

Gundam/DBZ crossover... I tried adding the hair last night. For some reason, It's not turning the way i wanted it to be, might try something else. Still no progress at this time.

Zollidia....done.

SD Gakushin Gundam... I did my sketch video, which turned out okay. hehe. I actually thought of newer design to add to the little guy. I'm thining of having the talons either retractable or have a hinge to pop out. As for wings, might use some origami on that and may use some transparancy instead of paper (or something else). Still thinking of a good design for the bird head.

Unboxing Kit... I've opened/assembled SD Master Gundam which added to my WIP. I might put this one on hold as I've thought of 2-4 more new projects. lol. I'll probably open the red Zaku this week. There goes my 4 WIP limit.


This Week...

Continue working on Crossover and Gakushin.

As mentioned above, unboxing/review of LunaMaria Hawke Gunner Zaku Warrior.

There's quite a hype on Iron Man figures... as well as Kamen Rider. I'm quite tempted to get a couple, but thinking of acquiring 'em w/o buying one. ^_~ (lol. Naw, i'm not doing the 5 finger discount).

I'm also thinking of doing a video of my unbuilt stikfas collection, did I mention that before? lol. I'm thinking of sending one or two to a couple of toy reviewers (I have yet to ask 'em) and sell a majority of them.

SD Gundam Collection video for my 100th youtube vid post. I'm going to sandwich that in somehow with my reviews and WIP.

Other things:
- I got a sandpaper sponge (320 Grit, for paint sanding) that I use to sand down parts right off the runners. I used it with the SD Master Gundam. I'm quite liking the corners of the sponge and how well it works with 'wet sanding.' Also, I really like how the matte finish looks like after sanding.

- I got putty (in a tube)...still need to find a use for it, maybe for the crossover project or my future projects (which yet to be revealed. hehe)

- Tempted again to go back to Sun Entertainment to get more SD kits. One of Gundam-Eclipse member, Kibo, showed this SD Deep Striker Resin kit. I found a kit (with similar design to the deep striker) at Sun's. But this will be a test to how long I can hold myself down. lol. Got to focus on my backlog. >_< (Update...d'oh went there today and got it T_T )

If you just started reading my blog and would like to comment, please use my youtube channel. I'm not sure if i get notified here... o_O.

Until then...thanks for reading ^_^

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

I need a new game plan for my hobby...

Still have WIP that I haven't finished yet. >_< Also, I don't have the camera for a day or two. I probably need to get my own, maybe one with an AC adapter so I don't have to worry about charging batteries while recording.

But here's my gameplan:

#1 Gundam/DBZ Crossover (Possible 2old4toys contest entry)
- I was hoping to take a picture before adding more stuff. Actually record my WIP while I add the hair.
- I'll probably just add the hair soon and show a demo of how I make it later on.
- Paint will probably come next week.

#2 Zollidia
- I want to paint this kit to make it look better...might do that today hopefully.
- I'll probably stick with the box art's color scheme for the most part.

#3 BB 353 SD Gakushin Gundam
- Hmm...I'm thinking of doing a video of me drawing out my plans for this kit with a whiteboard. But again, don't have the camera with me at the moment. I guess that'll have to wait probably Thursday?
- I'll be experimenting a lot with this kit. I don't have pla plates but found something similar and will give those a try.

As for the next unboxing... Still thinking... I do have quite a selection from my unbuilt kits. lol. I'll probably start on the Lunamaria Hawke's SD Blaze Zaku Warrior. I still want to get the purple one. haha.

I also have other video ideas:
- Speed build (2x) Origami Plane
- SD kit collection Video
- Vid Rant: (California's sales tax impeding in-state purchase)
- Simple stop-motion (I'm wondering if it's faster to just video tape myself moving the figure, and take snapshots w/o my hands in screen on WMM later on. Or that could be more work. haha)
- My Gallery Slideshow (my previous crafts on ceramics, origami, foam...and others)

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Can't do everything...

Hmm... I come upon this dilemma that I can't really do all of things I wanted to do with my gundam hobby. I used to just make forum reviews, with pictures and text in (PG). Then I got fascinated by video reviews which I do now in youtube. I also wanted to do some stop-animation. On top of that, I have a couple of kits I need to paint and customize. lol.

I find that I can only pick a few. If I choose to do video reviews, I see that there's not really a point on doing picture reviews unless I went to go in detail, i.e. macro shot photos. Actually it takes longer to do picture reviews as there's a lot of hyperlinking photos and typing my opinons on the kit. On the other hand for video reviews, I can relay all those in video, convert then upload. Then there's stop-animation that requires a lot of patience and time, but well worth it at the end and quite popular. I kinda want to make battle skirmishes and probably transformations animation. Lastly, painting and customizing is another segment that requires patience and time as well. I need time to brainstorm, wait for the paint to dry, and correct/adjust mistakes that I make. It seems that I can only pick two out of those things I wanted to do. Currently, I'm doing video reviews along with painting/customizing.

We'll see maybe I'll be able to touch on all of those later on.

I actually unbox and assembled the 1/144 Zollidia last night. I'll review the kit later today and upload the unboxing/articulation videos. Got lazy to customize the crossover, for some reason i'm not inspired to complete it anytime soon. I do plan to start painting...hopefully the laziness doesn't start to kick in. lol.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

My youtube channel and reviews

Overview: My youtube channel, 50+ subs, on-going contest(I'm participating).

I should still continue updating this journal as I find that I read them later on and reminisce my ideas and thoughts.

I did get get quite caught up with youtube and reviewing SD gundam kits. lol. I'm starting to think i'm pampering my subscribers as i post three or more vids a week. But I enjoy what I'm doing and I really want to share my great finds with others. Also, I like to promote my hobby as I find only a few enjoy super deformed gundams.

Last time I check, I finally got 50+ subscribers, Yay!! Awhile back I commented before to someone's vid (forgot who) that sub's number isn't important to me. But now, it sorta does. The number signifies a sense of accomplishment and awareness that viewers actually like your material--they even take the time to comment on my vids. Actually before I reach 50, my sub number went down by one. I was wondering who was that and would like to ask them why. But unfortunately, youtube doesn't notify you. And I can't really tell who it is cause i can't remember all of my subscriber's names (note: I even sometimes mistook one youtuber to another >_<, but certain names stand out and I remember them quite well.) Then I finally got three more subscribers which brought my sub # 50+. But the odd thing is I got another sub which I can't seem to figure out who--I want to thank that person. I guess that's the one that editted their subscription maybe? hehe.

Hmm...what else to talk about. Ohh right, I'm thinking of doing something special for getting 50+ subs. Seems like youtube reviewers does some sort of contests, which I have a couple in mind. But seeing there's already a couple on-going ones I'll hold on to mine. I also think that I need more subs to actually get a handful of participants.

On going Contest that I've participated and will participate:
KPHM42's Gundam 00 Theme Contest -entered
Joshuagundamu's Awesome Gundam Contest -entered
2old4toys Painting Contest (yellow theme) - brainstorming
Yummypixel's DBZ contest (still yet to be announced)
(note: I'll probably add hyperlinks later)

So far my WIP are...
- SD Gundam/DBZ crossover (sculpting/customizing)
- Mobile Sumo (paint-drybrushing)
- SD Zeta Gundam (paint-minor detailing)

I'm thinking of doing another unboxing review later on, before i switch to painting. It might be a kit that I will be entering for 2old4toy's contest.

,,V,^_^,V,,
-

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Carelessness acts of good welfare

Let's see...

I'm finding myself doing good things out of impulse. I'll hold the door when I know someone, even that person is 20ft. away, is going to leave as well. I'll offer my helping hand if you need help fixing your computer or other random chores. I even would leave that 5 cent change off the $1.95 ice cold coffee. lol.

But sometimes I realize that even I'm doing the right thing, it somewhat screws me up. I guess a narrative story will enlighten that.

I started enjoying walks, which last around 40min. to 1.5 hrs. I was walking downtown and found this hardware store. I'm in need of some materials, such as pin files and sand paper in varying grits. The store personnel, probably the owner, kindly offered his assistance and helped me choose the right type of materials I previously mentioned. When we hit the cashier, the phone rang. While on the phone he rang up my purchase and handed me the change. I made roughly $9 worth of supplies and I handed a $20 bill. He handed me $5 bills and coins for change. I was checking and putting it away, I notice an extra $5 underneath. I'm pretty sure I only have the $20 in my wallet. Now here comes my "act of good welfare", without hesitation I notified him of the mistake in change and handed him the extra $5. He smiled, while still on the phone. I said my thanks and left the shop. Deep down I felt good I did the right thing. On the other hand, I could use that extra $5 to buy other things especially if everybody needs money these days. Am I being too nice? maybe too naive? >_>

Let's hear another one....today specifically.

My parents decided to get Cable, Highspeed Internet, and Digital Voice--if you know the company good for you. hehe. There's actually a reason for us for getting it, but not going to get on the details about that. But one thing is for sure, we need to get the TV cable running. The installation is scheduled 2-4 pm. But it's almost 4, still nothing. Then the phone rang and the operator notified me that the technician is running late due to his workload. Being the nice guy I am, it's all good to me.

He came close to 5pm. He did his inspection and turns out, he need to replace the cable connecting from our house to the post outside. Now this post is on a steep hill in our backyard, actually our neighbors. He told me that he might have to call someone to do that. He decided to do it, but he'll be needing someone to hold the ladder. Due to the steep hill and loose soil from the moisture and rain, he wanted someone there just to be in a safe side. I volunteer. I helped carry the ladders and set it up. Turns out that he needs to connect it to the post first. Then have it connected again to where the ladder I'm suppose to support to. He did stay there at the post for some time, probably 10-20min. I did patiently wait at my spot. It started to rain, I even see a rainbow he pointed out. hehe. Anyways, once he finished the connection to the post, he then commence connecting it off the wire below where i'm at. I mean I could've just waited inside till he finishes with the post and come back to support the ladder. But I'm a type of person that can wait, whether it's a bus stop or cashier registers.

So after all that installation, we went back inside to see if the existing cable works. That took about another hour. I have to monitor him as he's going about his task in my parents bedroom. He then sets up everything in that room, being that the telephone jack is there where the modem needs to be close by. Plus it's the only room fitted with the wire that connects to the TV Cable. But actually, my family wanted the cable in our living room where our big TV is at but currently fitted with satellite. But I guess I assumed he want to check if the box works, considering that the wires might have corroded. That took him about another hour of troubleshooting. Then, he finally the dial tone but the modem wont activate for some reason. I think he spent another 2 hours on that? Turns out the problem was at the other end where a phone call to the HQ fixed it in just 2min. Great... Well he's exhausted considering he's working for 15hrs. straight. He did his best to get the internet and cable going. He actually about to call it quits, but he's really persistent. But yeah he finished it, and I signed off confirming his installation.

But that's where I screwed myself up. It's true that he got the internet, cable and phone working. Unfortunately, the cable and internet is setup on my parent's room. The phone actually has bad ringing noise at the background. All of which was furiously pointed at me by my angry dad once he got home a few minutes later. On my perspective, the guy tried his best to get those thing up and running. How I can deny him signing that thing off. He probably is on a commission basis. If i didn't, those 4 hrs. of work are for naught? There are still things need to be fixed, especially the wiring to the living room and the phone but it's already late at night. Am I being too nice? He even mentioned to me that the company actually screw the schedule up. He didn't get his equipment till 1pm. He had to go back to finish the job early in the morning which he still has to go, company policy?, despite not having the proper equipment. The technician had a long day and did his best, at the least he deserve my signature? But not to my dad's eyes. Everything he sees are all wrong, mistakes and "stupid" judgement on my behalf.

My mother was calmed with the situation. Actually, if I were to discuss it with my mom we probably contact the company and asked for a follow-up installation as the job wasn't completed. Yewp, blame the company's messy schedule not the technician. But no. I got yelled at, humiliated and probably called indecent things. My dad didn't see it in my perspective. Heck, he probably couldn't care less for the well being of the technician. After all, it's his job we paid for in terms of installation fees.

Sigh...I apologize for the lengthy post. But you need to know the details to see it in my perspective. But what do you think? Am I too naive to be nice? Is it a careless act of good welfare? Probably a kick at the balls huh? I'm probably not in good terms with my dad this week. Such a downer, bleh.

After writing this wall of text, I feel a bit better. But yea, this will pass and we'll get the whole thing sorted out. I just wish my dad has constructive criticism and not a destructive judgment over the whole thing.

I still believe in good karma. Certain good things did happen to me. Well at least i don't feel guilty since I did the right thing. Or did I? lol.

Until then....

,,V,^_^,V,,

I'm still here...

Updates:

Just a heads up to whomever checks my blog. I'm currently opting out of Stikfas. I still have 'em, still might customize 'em but not sure when.

I actually moved my hobby to building and customizing SD Gundams. ^_^

please check my youtube channel:

Thanks,
,,V,^_^,V,,

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Stikfas Custom G-Armor

Here's the painted custom:


Stikfas Custom G-Armor 003

Stikfas Custom G-Armor 012

I like how it turned out. Though I probably going to add more colors next time around. hehe.