tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37960875084991668182024-02-18T19:30:20.339-08:00Sunshine Acid。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-29935011065482697712013-06-28T18:35:00.002-07:002013-06-28T18:39:51.530-07:00Girls play video games?!<a href="http://www.gamesasylum.com/wp-content/uploads/game_boy_printer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.gamesasylum.com/wp-content/uploads/game_boy_printer.jpg" width="240" /></a>I remember my first gameboy that I had inherited from Aunt.<br />
Ah, I loved that old brick and the games I inherited with it (Tetris and Pipedream). I loved it so much, that I nagged my parents to buy me the cutting edge technology that was the game boy printer (which I would primarily use to print off my pokédex with pokémon gold).<br />
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<a href="http://hmorahan.com/Pics/RuthC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://hmorahan.com/Pics/RuthC.jpg" width="162" /></a>On my 9th birthday, I received my coveted gameboy color in lime green. This gameboy color saw me through some great times; it would ensure that I wouldn't have to look out of the car window when brought on road-trips through rural Ireland by my parents, it would give me hours of pleasure when I was hiding in the shed from socializing with kids my own age (true story, and it worked a treat!). I distinctly remember playing Zelda: Link's Awakening for hours upon hours. To this day, I would consider Zelda: Link's Awakening to be one of my favourite games and I still spend ridiculous amounts of times playing it on various ROMs. I skipped the Gameboy advance stage, favouring my beloved Gameboy Color.<br />
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The first console I experienced was the Nintendo 64, which my cousins hooked up to my grandmother's small television which was used to play Mario 64. I also remember visiting my cousin's place and being completely fascinated (if not a bit intimidated) with the playstation 1. In terms of console ownership, the first console I owned came in the form the playstation 2. Although I did slip into a tendency of playing some very casual games on the ps2, (sims 2 anyone?), happiness came in the form of Bully (Canis Canem Edit). Bully was defiantly my favourite ps2 game. For a brief period, I left Sony and returned to Nintendo consoles, this time in the form of a Wii. Although, I had some great fun with games such as Mario Kart, Wii Sport and so forth, it was nothing more then a casual experience.<br />
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At present I'm mainly playing my playstation 3. Although I dabble in the world of first person shooters, I'm an RPG girl and I blatantly favour open world games. I am a complete Fallout fangirl, it's my favourite game series of all time.<br />
I have dabbled in PC gaming, but at present I am operating OSX and Linux ubuntu, so I have very limited options.<br />
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But why you may ask, am I detailing my 'gaming CV'?<br />
Well as you can see, from a young age, I have been very interested in gaming. I would even consider myself to be a part of the gaming community.<br />
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So, when I found a series of walkthroughs, weapon mods and so forth on gaming community websites, forums and youtube.. I was very excited. You can only imagine my disappointment, and my somewhat disheartened dispostion when I saw comments saying<br />
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<i>"Girls can't play video games lol"</i><br />
<i>"girls need to get back to the kitchen and make my sammich"</i><br />
ect.<br />
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Thinking this douchebagery was confined to certain sites, I began to play online (Halo 2 on my friend's xbox 360 was the first game where I used a headset and I went online), I was hit with more blatant sexism.<br />
And it's never ceased. Although I am referring to a minority, the mirage of ridiculous comments have continued. Usually a comment about my female bodily parts. Or a gamer who is so curious, he's compelled to ask me "are you a tomboy, fat and ugly or playing to get d*ck". <br />
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I am not critizing our entire community. Plenty of male gamers treat their female counterparts with the same respect as they'd treat their male gaming friends. Also, this problem is not simply the fault of small minded individuals, but it is symptomatic of a larger problem within the gaming community.<br />
There are gamers out there who either nerd cred shame/sexually harass female players and it doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon.<br />
An interesting hypothesis arises for said male gamers who have no problem shaming/harassing a female player and in the same breath asking "WHY are there no girls here?!".<br />
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<b>Some food for thought comes from all of this... </b><br />
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1. If you play your games on a casual basis, you are a casual gamer. And hey, own that. I don't understand why people view casual gamers as some sort of outcasts. That said, whether you are 'casual' or not, does not have to do with your gender.<br />
2. Think about what you say, before you say it. If you're not open enough to accept the fact that gaming in not a little boy's club, then you're not open enough to be playing online.<br />
3. And at some point or another, you're gonna have to except that we have evolved into a society in which women are respected and treated as equal, again.. you really shouldn't be playing online. <br />
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This was a pretty short post, but it is only the 'jumping off' point for a larger post I am in the process of making in which I discuss the history of women in video games. <br />
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Here is one of my favourite youtubers, Albinwonderland, with an excellent video in which she discusses sexism within the realm of geekery.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/J0ggK9-TBVY" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Anyone experience any such sexism/hassle while playing video games? Leave them in the comments below!<br />
x。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-75600635994956145422013-06-23T13:04:00.000-07:002013-06-23T14:22:58.956-07:00Fallout 4: Truth, rumours and trolling. Oh Fallout. It's my favourite game series of all time, I have been impatiently awaiting the mention of a Fallout 4. It's been too long and thanks to work of the rumour mill and notorious trollers on Reddit, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to decipher between truth and rumour. But stay strong wastelanders! As I intend to demonstrate within this post that there is hope yet.<br />
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[INTELLIGENCE 7] So let's see what's actually confirmed and outline what BS has/is floating around the internet, and what we can expect in terms of release dates or future announcements. <br />
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As a side note, I would like to point out that the name 'Fallout 4' isn't actually a confirmed working title, but for the purposes of this Fallout series, I'm gonna go ahead and presume that Bethesda will follow the numerical order of Fallout 1, Fallout 2, Fallout 3. I know you're probably shouting "But Ruth, what about Fallout New Vegas!?" at your computer monitor right now, but remember, Fallout New Vegas was a <i>spinoff</i> of the Fallout series, not an actual sequel or a 'follow on'. Fallout 3 is Bethesda's first of the franchise in a way, where everything changed. <br />
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Mention of Fallout 4 began even <i>before</i> the release of Fallout 3, as seen in this <a href="http://www.bit-tech.net/gaming/pc/2008/08/09/fallout-3-interview-pete-hines/1" target="_blank">Bit Tech interview</a> with Bethesda's Pete Hines,<br />
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<i><b>BT</b>: Fallout 4?</i><br />
<i><b>Pete Hines:</b> Please! Y'know we didn't buy this series so that we could make Fallout 3 and put it away and never do it again. [...] Fallout 4 will almost certainly happen - but lets make sure first that Fallout 3 is good first.</i><br />
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So, this paired with the fact that Bethesda acquired the intellectual property rights from Interplay in 2007 for $5.7m leads me to presume that Fallout 4 will be happening.<br />
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One of the biggest 'false prophets' so to speak, came from a Reddit user going by the name of 'GNR_informant' in late January 2013. To give this troll some credit, his claims were actually pretty fluid which led to his hoax being so god damn believable. Plenty of popular youtube gaming channels, gaming blogs and the lay Fallout community based their posts and videos (wishlists, expectations and so forth) on the misinformation of GNR_informant.<br />
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Here is his original post and his later posted, 'confession':<br />
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<a href="http://postimage.org/" target="_blank"><img alt="Screen shot 2013 06 23 at 19 07 27" border="0" height="173" src="http://s10.postimg.org/xkn2dzdyh/Screen_shot_2013_06_23_at_19_07_27.png" width="400" /></a><br />
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This troll got far too much attention for the hoax he created. This Reddit post resulted in a lot of disappointed Fallout fans and a big waste of time for community at large. Worst of all, a lot of these ideas that GNR_Informant had concocted in his half-baked hoax, are still floating around the internet under the guise of truth. From what I have read, it seems like the biggest piece of misinformation that has spread like wildfire throughout the Fallout community is the location of the next game, which was said to be Boston in GNR_Informant's hoax. At present, there is not confirmed location for the unannounced game.<br />
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Another reason to why GNR_Informant's hoax circulated so fast has a lot to do with timing. Around the same time-frame as GNR_Informant, Erik Todd Dellums (the voice actor of Fallout 3's 'Galaxy News Radio' DJ, Three Dog), tweeted this,<br />
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In a twitter conversation with Twitter user, @ToasttheRabbit, Dellums revealed that he was given permission to release such information. In this conversation, the possibility that his voice acting may be used elsewhere was also touched upon, for example in a spin-off movie or a TV show. Bethesda, oddly enough stepped in to do some damage control.. essentially silencing Dellums. Hm. Somewhat odd considering that Bethesda had originally given permission to Dullums to tweet this tease.<br />
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Another small pearl of hope can be seen in February 2013, Zenimax (Bethesda's parent company) <a href="http://jobs.zenimax.com/requisitions/view/217" target="_blank">job posting</a>, seeking programmers to work on "an unannounced game on future consoles". I personally do not think this is Wolfenstein: The New Order as most are speculating, nor do I believe it to be The Evil Within, as both projects are developed by different teams/companies.<br />
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Bethesda also added some new Fallout related merchandise to it's store including an animal friend perk t-shirt (it's unavailable at present, I really wanted one!), a tunnel snakes hoodie, a new California republic t-shirt and Vault Boy longboard. Ok, this may seem insignificant however this could possibly suggest that they are attempting to reignite interest in the Fallout series. <br />
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The most recent development comes from E3 2013, in which there was a clear lack of Fallout 4 announcements. However, there was a press only conference held by Bethesda behind closed doors. The game being announced within this conference is apparently going to be released for Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4 and PC. It is apparently 55% done and set for release on the 15th of October, 2015. The community is still divided on whether this is in fact an announcement of Fallout 4. Sources such as <a href="http://www.bubblews.com/news/660463-fallout-4-announcement" target="_blank">Bubblelews</a> give good solid information, assuring readers that this is in fact Fallout 4. <br />
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<b>Conclusions:</b><br />
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Well hot damn, Bethesda have demonstrated mastery over controlling PR leaks and remained oh so vague about any future developments. But don't retreat back to your Vault in sadness just yet! We can still gather these facts:<br />
- From my information on the Fallout series in general, recent developments and what I have written in this post, I am 100% that there will be another Fallout game.<br />
- Going by release date calenders, the Fallout game will most likely be released in 2016, however there is a good possibility of it being released in 2015.<br />
- Bethesda'a roots can be found in PC gaming, so it is almost a given that the next Fallout title will be released on PC and at least one new gen console. I am <i>hoping</i> that these rumours circulating that the new Fallout will NOT be a Microsoft exclusive. <br />
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Although this post does not cover any Earth shattering information or developments for the next Fallout game, it is my intention to create a clear post with concrete information and clearing identifying what is in fact rumour. <br />
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This is the first post in a series on the Fallout franchise, so keep an eye on this blog for more Fallout 4 news. Also, follow me on twitter, (<a href="https://twitter.com/ruth_odonoghue" target="_blank">@ruth_odonoghue</a>) for more ramblings/updates on Fallout!<br />
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Until then, wastelanders!。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-90654029586532784752013-06-17T10:07:00.000-07:002013-06-17T10:07:23.219-07:00Snapshot +2<b>Listening:</b><br />
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Currently, I am loving the 'Spring Breakers' soundtrack, a mish-mash of hardcore rap fantasy and memorizing, pornographic dubstep. Plenty of college part-ay music featured on this soundtrack too, it's defiently a new favourite.<br />
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Also, some random stuff.. Depeche Mode, Glukoza (Vladivostock FM, the epic Eastern European pop station in GTA4 anyone?) and Marina & the Diamonds, of course.<br />
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<b>Watching:</b><br />
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E3 conferences have been pre-occupying my time and I will be writing a full post on the highs and lows of E3. But I have been fantasizing over two new trailers in particular. Foremost, '<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpIeWxsfBos" target="_blank">Watchdogs</a>' (Ubisoft Montreal: PS4/PS3/X360/PC/WiiU) has an undoubtedly compelling and unique take on a world, where hacking is the driving tool behind storyline. Sure we have seen hacking and using other forms of mobile technology as a tool in other games to progress storyline, e.g. Deus Ex, Enter the Matrix, but Ubisoft have certainly demonstrated that they want to take this to a whole new level.<br />
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My second lust from E3 2013, that I have also been re-watching on the hour, every hour is the big surprise, the hotly anticipated, 'Tom Clancy's The Division' (Ubisoft Massive: PS4/XBOXONE). This game combines two of my favourite game aspects, open-world and the RPG genre. But it's true selling point? This is an open world, RPG massivly multiplayer online game. But enough fangirling from me, I'll just let this trailer do the talking.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/kOHYS2BBKY8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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<b>Wearing:</b><br />
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A slouchy white tank top, a peak of a vintage victorian-esque lace bra, <i>very</i> worn shorts and my suede black/silver unif hellraisers. <br />
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<b>Reading:</b><br />
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Jacqueline Susann's '<a href="http://www.amazon.com/books/dp/0802135196" target="_blank">Valley of Dolls</a>', oddly of my all time favourite books.. I can sort of amble within it for days.<br />
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<b>Wanting:</b><br />
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- A ps4 with a selection of RPG games and perhaps a release date for Fallout 4.. I'm looking at you Bethesda..<br />
- A vegetarian bento box from Yamamori's, my favourite Japanese restaurant in Dublin.<br />
- To see Emma Watson preform as failing 'socialite' Alexis Neirs in 'The Bling Ring', but alas, it's not out in cinemas in Ireland until the 15th of July.<br />
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<br />。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-44251418848564081702013-06-03T08:37:00.000-07:002013-06-04T11:40:19.094-07:00Xbox1 Vs PS4: The Unanswered QuestionsIn anticipation of E3, I noticed a lot of bloggers detailing what we already know about the ps4 and the largely anticipated, xbox one. If requested, I will make a comparison post however, I thought it would be interesting to make a post about what we don't know, what Sony and Microsoft <i>haven't</i> told us. <br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ-aSSGGxk4TUQLKc5W_teZpIG-llfCqrKXB6YyFlpccYfvRyCDng" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ-aSSGGxk4TUQLKc5W_teZpIG-llfCqrKXB6YyFlpccYfvRyCDng" /></a> There is one unanswered question in regards to both consoles which is perhaps the most important question to be answered.. the big ol' pink elephant in the room<b>; when will the long awaited Xbox One and and ps4 be released</b>? It's quite possible that both these crucial dates will be released at E3 2013. <br />
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<b>Xbox one:</b><br />
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- Possible release date for E3 2013<br />
- Retailer Zavvi - possibly a speculative listing - prices the console at £399, claiming a release date of 31 November, 2013. This includes one controller and the Kinect.<br />
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<b>Ps4</b>:<br />
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- Again, perhaps a set date will be released at E3 2013.<br />
<a href="http://www.computerandvideogames.com/408814/ps4-release-date-2013-says-sony-europe-ad/" target="_blank">- An advert that Sony released within Europe hints at a 'holiday' release</a>. The question for us European playstation fans is, will the ps4 be released before Christmas or will we be left crying into our turkey and ham dinners as we watch our American and Japanese counterparts revealing in the new-gen glory of the almighty PS4. Eurogamer notes this disregard toward European gamers and release detes. In an interview with <a href="http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-02-21-sony-sounds-uncertain-about-european-ps4-launch-timing" target="_blank">Eurogamer</a>, Shuhei Yoshida (president of Sony Worldwide studios) states "For us, Europe is an enormously important market. That's no question.
So I hope European consumers can play PS4 as soon as it's available
somewhere, but I'm not making promises."<br />
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<i>Ok, so the big question aside.. Now some gen-specific questions </i><br />
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<u><b>Xbox One:</b></u><br />
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<b>1. What happens when you go offline?</b><br />
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Ah, always online. Because it was a successful tactic for SimCity(!) Although, Microsoft attempted to clear up any confusion by vaguely stating in their official FAQ, "No, it does not have to be always connected, but Xbox One does require a connection to the Internet".. wait, wut? Clarification needed please Microsoft.<br />
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<b>2. Questions of privacy (..or lack there of)</b><br />
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The Kinect camera must be connected to the system in order for the console to function, making the kinect a perfect way for Microsoft to quite literally watch you. Oh would you look at the time, it's 1984 already! Ok, maybe that's a bit too paranoid but there are several elements this new-gen console that seem somewhat problematic in regards to maintaining personal privacy. A good example of this can be seen in the patent filed by Microsoft in 2011 (<a href="http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2013-05-24-microsoft-applies-for-patent-on-tv-achievements" target="_blank">Games Industry International</a>), for gaining 'achievements for watching television shows or adverts. Cool, you say, finally there is some recognition for the average couch potato. However this translates to your Xbox One tracking everything you watch on Television. Creepy. <br />
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Other questions Microsoft needs to answer:<br />
- Although at it's launch, the Xbox One was being marketed as the penultimate family entertainment system. Hence, an emphasis on television viewing. However, this was all very American-centric with no mention of how this interface will function for non-yanks. Microsoft, will I be able to watch my local TV Stations on the Xbox One? <br />
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<b><u>Ps4:</u></b><br />
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<b>1. The Console's appearance</b><br />
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Yep, it was downright odd that Sony didn't actually show us the console. Of course, who could forget <i>that </i>controller. In to an interview with 4gamer, Hiroshi Kawano stated " "If I'm being honest, I also haven't seen its final design. Even the
controller we showed today, I saw the final design around yesterday or
so.". Personally, I do not understand why the gaming community are so preoccupied with the aesthetics of the console. Considering the console won't be out for a few months and it doesn't appear that Sony are 100% on what will go into the console, it is understandable why they haven't picked which casing they are going to go for.<br />
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<b>2. Is online still free?</b><br />
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Ah, Microsoft and their obnoxious Gold membership fees. This is a favourite argument point from PS3 fans when debating the age old, burning question of 'Which console is better?!'. Microsoft's online fee has caused many a cost-conscious gamer to flock to Sony's PS3. Sony has not made it clear at all here on their pricing/online content... most likely to be unveiled at E3.<br />
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Other questions Sony needs to answer.<br />
- No mention has been given to the Playstation Eye being <i>required</i> to play. Sony? Any clarification here?<br />
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<i>Still confused? You're probably confused about the Xbox One, because lets be honest, Microsoft have issued too many official yet-oh-so vague comments over the next-gen console. In that case,<a href="http://kotaku.com/chart-how-microsoft-confused-everyone-with-the-xbox-on-510382385" target="_blank"> Kotaku has made a very clear and helpful chart about such matters.</a></i><br />
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<i>Leave any of the unanswered questions that I forgot in the comments, I love reading them! </i><br />
<br />。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-8231795155565853112013-01-20T16:10:00.000-08:002013-01-20T16:10:39.557-08:00Lessons we learn from TwilightHave you ever watched Twilight backwards? It's amazing. Nah, not really. It's still crap.<br />
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In the past, if I felt depressed or hopeless, I'd console myself by telling myself that I had never read any of the Twilight books. But that has all changed now. I purposely exposed myself to the Twilight universe for experimental purposes (not sexual experimentation though, sparkly dominating vampires ain't mah thing). Nevertheless, I did learn a few 'truths' from Stephanie Meyer's modern masterpiece.<b><br /></b><br />
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<b>Be submissive, be helpless.</b><br />
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Oh Bella. The new pin up girl for Damsels in Distress everywhere. Interestingly, Bella's description within the book is very vague. But her flawed personality makes up for it. Bella is described as clumsy, stubborn and rather 'average'. Bella is also described as a terrible liar, who overeats when she feels upset. Basically, an unoriginal character devoid of any unique traits/quirks who is set up for failure. And where Bella fails, there is always a hypermasuline character fighting to 'save' her.<br />
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Submissiveness is a huge component in Bella's personality. From the very beginning of the first book, we see Bella is constantly cooking, cleaning and caring for her (...lazy) father. And when Bella wins the attention of sparkly Edward Cullen, she instantly submits to his every whim. And due to a lack of self, Edward becomes Bella's obsession which results in page upon page of mindless drivel.<br />
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Time upon time, Bella has to be rescued (from a car, from harassment/teasing, from drowning, from Jasper ect) because she's too flawed, helpless or goddamn stupid to save herself. Seriously, from the amount of near death experiences Bella has experienced, it seems like even the universe is trying to kill her useless self off. Well, I'd hardly blame the universe in this case.<br />
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<b>Overprotective, abusive man-child = panty dropper </b><br />
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<a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lbl8roqiJG1qenq9no1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lbl8roqiJG1qenq9no1_400.jpg" width="256" /></a>Edwards is a cute, overprotective boyfriend that every girl craves.<br />
It baffles me as to why countless girls/women let their panties drop, the second they hear about fictional Edward Cullen. Maybe I'm just not normal. I wouldn't actually enjoy having my supernatural man reading my private and intimate thoughts to ensure that I am only thinking about him. I would hate having a man who BANS me from driving a car and you call me a crazy femeninazi, but I've never secretly wished that my man's sister would kidnap me so he could control my movement. And although this isn't necessarily 'abuse', Edward creeping on Bella as she sleeps? Come on Meyers, let's keep that creepy voyeurism where it belongs, on 4chan. <br />
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Bella becomes isolated from all friends and family, Edward continues to dominate and control her, even threatening her in certain instances. But no, this isn't abuse ladies. This is a cute relationship that we all need to crave.<br />
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<b>And some more pearls of wisdom we learn from the series..</b><br />
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<b>- </b>You CAN change a person for the better. Well if you sacrifice your wellbeing, happiness and sanity. <br />
- The best situation a woman can wish to be in, is stuck between two 'men'. Choosing bestiality or necrophilia. Ahh, romantic.<br />
- Is your crush aloof, mean tempered and rude? Does he ignore you a lot? It means he's in love with you.<br />
- Punctuation and correct full-stop usage within writing is like, so last year. Oh and cramming that bad boy of a 'novel' full of teenage angst, it just leaves readers hungry for more.<br />
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I think I'll leave it at that.<br />
The universe of Twilight is most insightful. And it goes without saying that
Twilight might be the best book-to-movie adaptation ever. Nothing
was lost in the translation, because bullshit remains bullshit.<br />
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And that leaves us with one question.<br />
In my research, did I join 'team Edward' or 'team Jacob'?<br />
I'm team person who tried to hit Bella with a car.<br />
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。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-68715842395539722382013-01-10T08:04:00.000-08:002013-01-10T09:30:50.576-08:00Weird internet Thursday.We've all stumbled across 'that' side of the internet. It always seems to be during 'exam time' (ugh, I feel dirty just using that phrase) that I find myself either whining/complaining/semi-trolling on various forums or lurking around the 'weird' side of the internet, wasting my time. It's been established that time is not a rigid construct, therefore, I conclude that I am devoid of any guilt.<br />
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I have collected creepy, odd, Japanese odd (oh trust me, the Japs have their own category of 'odd'), downright weird and 'interesting' links over the years. I suppose it's only fair that I share them and bring you all down with me.<br />
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<b><i><a href="http://flash.pivpiv.dk/testgay.html" target="_blank">1. Are you gay? </a></i></b><br />
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<i>Take this test once! If you take it more then once, you must have doubts!</i><br />
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<i><a href="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at152905_zps6cdb26cb.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at152905_zps6cdb26cb.png" width="320" /></a></i><br />
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<b><i><a href="http://www.duckoftheday.co.uk/" target="_blank">2. Duck of the Day</a></i></b><br />
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<i>A favourite amongst my fellow procrastinating college students. Log on daily for a new duck of the day.</i><br />
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<i><a href="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at152939_zps831c2e0b.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at152939_zps831c2e0b.png" width="320" /></a></i></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sEI1AUFJKw&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">3. Giga Pudding video</a></i></b><br />
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<i>I felt suicidal last night, I then found this video. My life now has meaning again.</i><br />
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<b><i><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9sEI1AUFJKw" width="420"></iframe><br /></i></b>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.howmanygoats.com/" target="_blank">4. How many Goats are you worth?</a></i></b><br />
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<i>We've all wondered this from time to time. Well now it's time to find out! How many goats are YOU worth?</i><br />
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<i><a href="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at153050_zps1281aa28.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at153050_zps1281aa28.png" width="320" /></a></i></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.studentology.net/tuesday/" target="_blank">5. Is it Tuesday?</a></i></b><br />
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<i>Not sure if it's Tuesday? Visit 'Is it Tuesday', and they'll give you the cold hard truth.</i><br />
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<a href="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at153103_zpsfc96eb17.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/Screenshot2013-01-10at153103_zpsfc96eb17.png" width="320" /></a><br />
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If any of you non-existent readers have any wacky, weird links to contribute, leave them in a comment :3。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-85156413919509520962013-01-06T04:35:00.000-08:002013-01-06T05:00:08.079-08:00Wishlist: January 13<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/wishlist/set?.embedder=4620586&.svc=copypaste&id=68115371" target="_blank"><img alt="Wishlist 1" border="0" height="308" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/7iTOAQzlJGHfaGC72ukw/cid/68115371/id/JITs9HDVR7yU4rjWbVCH-w/size/c600x464.jpg" title="Wishlist 1" width="400" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/wishlist/set?.embedder=4620586&.svc=copypaste&id=68115371" target="_blank">Wishlist 1</a> by <a href="http://twee420.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4620586&.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">twee420</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/obey_t_shirts/shop?query=obey+t+shirts" target="_blank">obey t shirts</a></small><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. Jelly Bag</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Ah, the jelly bag. Me, in bag form. Maybe if we ALL used jelly bags more often and just TRIED to be a bit more 'kawaii' (Al-Quida, hello... this is for you), there'd be less of terrorism threat and less tedious airport checks. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>2. Lime Crime d'Lilac lipstick ($15.99)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">A statement lipstick that suits pale skin with cool undertones? OK.. I suppose I'll just <i>have</i> to get it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>3. Mass Effect Trilogy (€45)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I've been meaning to play this for ages now. Three of the most popular, best rated games put into one trilogy. My favourite element of Mass Effect is the decision making within the gameplay and it shapes what the game becomes. I always enjoy games in which you must make difficult decisions, choices and in which you choose whether to be 'good' or 'bad' </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>4. Betsy Johnson skull ring</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I've always wanted an obnoxiously overpriced, shiny Betsy Johnson ring. Yes, it may be indulgent and overpriced but it's shiiiiney.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>5. UNIF hellraisers (black/silver studs) //(€120)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Hi, if any sugar-daddies are reading this, this sugar baby is a UK size 3 (US size 5, I think). Thank ya! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>6. Obey Heather Grey shirt (€23)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">There is a rastafarian variation of this shirt, but I prefer this plain grey variation of the 'OBEY' shirt. However if anyone uses the word 'swag' in my presence, expect to have your bowls disembowelled. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>7. Topshop Pink Cord skater skirt (€52)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I have been looking for a baby pink skater skirt for ages and I think I finally found my match.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>8. Topshop Nails in Green Room (€6.20)</b></span></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">I've been quite liking green nails recently, it's a welcome break from black nails. I quite like holographic greens, 'alien' greens, turtle greens and blue toned green. This isn't Irish supremecy. I swear.</span><br />
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。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0Dublin, Ireland53.304621075102709 -6.284179687550.913654575102711 -11.4477536875 55.695587575102707 -1.1206056875000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-73803036789538037272012-08-15T13:29:00.000-07:002012-08-15T13:39:28.368-07:00Reasons why I suck #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtyvLpr2G-c3-gFpxSxr3HlBFf8ExIemtPdEsHwhxrzikOLX_lOIZ3iJSMB14rMiHM58TQEty9X3S48NnUt9b0-ikqH3v_DiHY5RTYo8VcXAoN5EPFskBAS-RyBfRDhD8YZ6vM_XNhSRA/s1600/Giant+House+Spider.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtyvLpr2G-c3-gFpxSxr3HlBFf8ExIemtPdEsHwhxrzikOLX_lOIZ3iJSMB14rMiHM58TQEty9X3S48NnUt9b0-ikqH3v_DiHY5RTYo8VcXAoN5EPFskBAS-RyBfRDhD8YZ6vM_XNhSRA/s320/Giant+House+Spider.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
1. I still allow spiders to dominate my life. I hate the creepy little fuckers. They serve no purpose other then creeping people out. It also seems that my bedroom has become a spider hook up point, where the creepy little things congregate and torment me. And then of course, August and September seem to be their happy hour. Just great. I'm sick of trying to kill them from a distance with a battered Cosmopolitan magazine while semi-screaming "EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE FUCK FUCK FUCK EEEEEEEEEEEEE" in a rather high pitched voice. So I decide bust out a can of bug killing spray. But I'm so terrified and preoccupied with the spiders in the corner of the room, that I didn't realize that the nozzle was aimed the wrong way. Now, I could legally market myself as walking insect repellent (the smell is a bitch to remove from clothes). And the second time that I attempt to banish the spider with the bug spray? Well, I <i>may</i> have gone on a power trip. I may of sprayed so much of the stuff when the 'power' went to my head that I had to evacuate my room. For a day or two.<br />
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2. It's common knowledge that Blogspot is saturated with beauty blogs.And while some of these beauty blogs are a great read, a majority of beauty blogs tend to make a mockery of the English language while <i>still</i> managing to whore themselves to PR companies for free samples (a skill in itself, I believe). I enjoy reading some beauty blogs and seeing the people behind them. However, I'll openly admit that I never manage to quite fit in with certain 'beauty buffs' who manage to treat cosmetics religiously. And lets face it, thanks to a tsunami of beauty blogs, almost everyone it seems, has become a beauty buff. It was a friend of mine who decided to take the advice of a novice self styled beauty expert/blogger who recommended an excellent knock off perfume, a 'dupe' if you will. Well, according to my friend this knock off was supposed to smell simular to 'Happy' by Clinque. So I see my friend and ask "What the fuck is that smell?". She brags about the scent for a while and yet I still managed to mindlessly blurt out "It smells like bug spray". She wasn't impressed. It took a while to apologize. The perfume incident was water under the bridge until I said "hey, did you hear about my saga with the spider and the bug spray the other day?". Apparently my bug spray incident was a story I concocted to mock her. There's no winning with people some times..<br />
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3. I was supposed to go to the gym this week with my friend Kyle. I'm sure what exactly happened (probably my apathetic attitude towards fitness and exercise is what happened), but we ended up sitting on my couch all night.. chain smoking, eating popcorn and playing Fallout 3. Enough said.<br />
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4. Between the bank, Revenue (Irish tax office) and my broadband server, I've estimated that I've been on put on hold for over 2 hours in the past week. I have also concluded that it is easier to get a kidney transplant in this country, then it is to get a decent high speed internet connection.<br />
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Oh the fun of it all:<br />
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- If you would like to talk to a computer system that wasn't designed to understand Irish accents, please press 1<br />
- If you would like to stay on hold while listening to a cheap, crappy 'upbeat' Mozart interlude please press 2<br />
- If you would like to be connected to some dope in a crackhouse in Mongolia who will shout "WHAT" 20 times before telling you to plug your broadband modem out, wait 20 seconds and plug it back in again, please press 3<br />
- If you would like a decent, efficient service where you talk to a human (who understands you) and resolves your issue, please hang up.. this is Ireland, get used to doing things arseways.。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-5871049549685536982012-07-15T19:58:00.000-07:002013-01-20T16:26:29.849-08:00Liebster Blog AwardsThe Liebster blog award is given to up and coming bloggers (200 followers or less I think). A big thank you to <a href="http://talulahs-attic.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">Taz</a> for tagging me!<br />
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<b><u>The Rules:</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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1. Each person must post 11 things about themselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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2. Answer the questions the tagger has set for you and create eleven (11) questions for the people you've tagged.<o:p></o:p></div>
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3. Choose eleven (11) people and link them in your post.<o:p></o:p></div>
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4. Go to their page and tell them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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5. Remember no tag backs!<br />
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<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<br />
<b>11 things about me</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
1. I don't have low self esteem, I just have low esteem for everybody else<br />
2. I have been a vegetarian for about 5 years now, although I despise PETA and their chauvinistic sexist arrogance.<br />
3. I'm bilingual. I can speak Irish (gaelic) and English fluently. Thanks to the flawed Irish school system, I speak irrelevant French. I couldn't tell you that I am stranded and I need help, but I can say all the parts of a car in French. I cannot ask you for directions, but I can write a postcard to my mother.<br />
4. I am in a interracial relationship. I've been going out with my boyfriend for almost 3 years now.<br />
5. I watch an unusual amount of documentaries. I've actually been watching undercover documentaries, exposés and so forth from a very young age. I can firmly say that it has molded me into the cynic that I am today.<br />
6. I study English, Media and Cultural studies in college.<br />
7. I am currently reading 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood<br />
8. Here is a list of celebrities that I do not care about: Lana del Ray, anyone involved with $cientology, all of the kardashians, professor green, paris hilton, nicole scherzinger, simon cowell, jimmy carr, alan carr, adele ect<br />
9. My favourite video game series is Fallout.<br />
10. I have listened to anarcho-punk, crust punk, thrash, oi and ska since I was an angsty teenager and I am still as in love with these genres as ever.<br />
11. I'm blue da ba dee da ba die..<br />
<br />
<b>Taz's questions</b><br />
<br />
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<b>1. What are you most proud about? <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Probably just how far I've come in life so far. I'm in college, I have a job, I maintain social interactions. My parents seem happy enough.</div>
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<b>2. How many different countries have you visited?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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America, Italy, Austria, Spain, France, the UK and Austria. So, 6.</div>
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<b>3. If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Probably an indie video game designer or a screenwriter.</div>
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<b>4. If someone gave you a million pounds, how would you spend it?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Buy a creepy yet beautifully furnished mansion and harbour as many cats as humanly possible. Or hire a personal chef and become fat. Maybe both.</div>
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<b>5. Are you an Optimist or a Pessimist?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I would say I am a realist however , we all have different interpretations of reality and my interpretations are often interpreted by others as 'pessimistic'. </div>
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<b>6. If you could go back in time, what era would you go to and why?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I would go to the Weimar republic (Germany, right before the Nazi era) and warn the people of the aftermath of the Third Reich. </div>
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<b>7. What thing do you wish you had invented?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0cm;">
Concealer. Women everywhere would be eternally grateful. </div>
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<b>8. If you brought out a beauty line, what would you call it?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Síóg (pronounced she-oug), it's Irish for fairy.</div>
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<b>9. What is your favourite product?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Probably eyeliner, I look like a zombie without eyeliner.</div>
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<b>10. Which is your favourite season and why?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I really do not like warm weather.. I prefer Winter, I like dark days (just think of me as a vampire.. with less marketing)</div>
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<b>11. If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?</b></div>
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Either Harold or Kumar from the Harold and Kumar series, just so I could get into wild and weird adventures with Neil Patrick Haris. And eat White Burger.</div>
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<b>11 Questions from me!</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>1. If you could punch one celebrity in the face, who would it be?</i></div>
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<i>2. What is your favourite food?</i></div>
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<i>3. If you could change one law OR make a new law, what would it be?</i></div>
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<i>4. Do you believe in a God(s)?</i></div>
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<i>5. Do you have a diet or exercise routine? </i></div>
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<i>6. What is the cheesiest song on your ipod/mp3 player?</i></div>
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<i>7. Have you ever read a book or saw a film that changed the way that you look at life?</i></div>
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<i>8. What would your idea of a perfect date be?</i></div>
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<i>9. How old would you be, if you didn't know how old you are? </i></div>
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<i>10. If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a large group of people, what would that message be?</i></div>
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<i>11. What is the last book that you read?</i></div>
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<b>I tag:</b></div>
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Anyone who sees this.</div>
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I know this bit might qualify as cheating.. oh well.</div>
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Here are some of my favourite blogs with less then 200 followers,</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0cm;">
1. <a href="http://themalebeautician.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">Ethan</a></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0cm;">
2.<a href="http://belagnes.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank"> Bel Agnes</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.ithinkijustbloggedmyself.com/" target="_blank">Claire</a> </div>
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4. <a href="http://biophiliaismymuse.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Kyle</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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I suck at this >.<</div>
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。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-18347982481206055502012-07-12T18:20:00.000-07:002012-07-12T18:28:17.036-07:00Perfect Presents! (For people you hate..)<i>I don't even like buying presents for people I like. Not because I'm cheap ass. Because I usually end up buying something crap, something very clichéd or doing the honourable thing and getting them vouchers. But buying presents for people that you don't actually like? Well it's so much more fun then it at first seems. Get creative and let your annoyed, over-worked juices flow. </i><br />
<i>Here's some inspiration:</i><b><br />
</b><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<b>1. Unwanted magazine subscriptions </b><br />
Has your anti-war, "save the children" neighbour rallied the 'peace troops' in his garden again? Has he being pushing you to 'join the cause'? Has he used the terms 'flower power' one too many times? He's gonna just love his new subscription to American Hand-gunner Magazine (America's most popular gun magazine, don't ya know).<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>2. Noisy toys</b><br />
Does someone in your life have a spoilt and obnoxious loud child? Well then, gift them with the loudest, most annoying toy that you can find in the toy shop. Usually, anything colourful and within the nickelodeon franchise does the trick. Think a Dora the Explorer doll. A <i>singing</i> Dora the Explorer. And hey, while you're being so generous, why not provide a years supply of batteries alongside the toy. Aren't you the generous one?<br />
<i>- Also consider: Toys that take ages to put together or a sing-a-long Barney DVD.</i><br />
<b></b><br />
<b><b><br />
</b></b><br />
<a href="http://www.cutedecision.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/candy-bra-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://www.cutedecision.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/candy-bra-2.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>3. Candy underwear</b><br />
Of course, we are entitled to our own opinions and freedom of choice but if that special conservative friend in your life has pushed your buttons by condemning the scientific basis of evolution (LOL), ranted about the 'sanctity of marriage', complained about abortion while pushing for death penalties then maybe you should consider the tasty, classy candy underwear. Maybe.. just maybe.. a bit of (sugar and) spice in the bedroom will allow him/her to let of some steam and give him/her less to bitch about.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Pro-Fur coalition membership</b><br />
I am a vegetarian. However, most of my friends are not vegetarians. And I accept that. Why wouldn't I? People should be able to enjoy their food and their chosen lifestyle without some nutcase force feeding them nonsense propaganda. So for that special peson in YOUR life, who frowns at you everytime you take a bite of that delicious burger and spends the weekend <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQvGHuIRDKlC12hxJc7qk0BfNQXnE_9YaW0NQQnS3H1ueRhwU1E1hgMDuY28YpNQ0_RZXiPAMhXH6l-BXHW6E0iwtElwc76mWqAuCsZemUzY0MTRaTI9YW3nr3BIYF3bp5oVbdbMc4Pw/s400/peta_cage.jpg">protesting in a cage to highlight the plight of chickens</a>, consider gifting them with a fur-coalition membership. If no such coalition exists in your area, simply buy them the real thing. Or a years supply of meat. There are different ways that you can go with this, allow your creativity to flow.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://jacketupload.macmillanusa.com/jackets/high_res/jpgs/9780312029104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://jacketupload.macmillanusa.com/jackets/high_res/jpgs/9780312029104.jpg" width="151" /><b></b></a><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Livin-Microwave-Cooking-instructor/dp/0312029101">5. 'Easy livin', Microwave Cooking' book</a></b><br />
As a blogger, I am aware that there are many, many different food and cooking blogs out there with weird and wonderful, creative and mouthwatering recipes. And don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with this alone, I have used many a recipe that I have found various blogs. But, if these foodies are going too far in your life, be it foodie mommies that shame your version of school lunches or an in-law who snubs any of your attempts to speak fondly of comfort food, then the simplicity of 'Easy livin' Microwave Cooking' book is sure to reduce them to tears (and not of joy..).<br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>If anyone can think of some more great gifts to get for people you don't actually like, share them in the comments won't you please?</i><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-76024806121057530572012-06-20T09:23:00.000-07:002012-06-20T09:40:12.901-07:00What hobby should you take up?Tired of that pesky void in you soul?<br />
Take my quiz to find a new mind numbing hobby!<br />
* I am not responsible for any hair loss caused by said quiz.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzNDAyMTAzNDg4NjgmcHQ9MTM*MDIxMDM2MzA4MSZwPTE1NDIyNDImZD*mZz*xJm89NGZkYTY3ODBjMDIwNDU*Mzg3/MjMyNWNkNjI5MzNmNDAmb2Y9MA==.gif" /><object id="qunqz2e5" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://files.quizsnack.net/app/swf/EmbedCanvas.swf?hash_id=qunqz2e5&t=1340210315" width="350" height="450"><param name="movie" value="http://files.quizsnack.net/app/swf/EmbedCanvas.swf?hash_id=qunqz2e5&t=1340210315"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></object><noscript>To view this quiz you need to have Flash Player 9 or newer installed and JavaScript enabled. Use QuizSnack to easily create <a href="http://www.quizsnack.com/" title="Online survey software, web poll & questionnaire tool">online surveys</a>. </noscript>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-16473486975914194982012-06-14T02:38:00.003-07:002012-06-14T02:48:36.908-07:00the Rose of Diddly Dum Aye-VilleI've lived in Dublin, Ireland all my life so I know a thing or two about businesses and money makers stripping down our culture, simplifying it and making it marketable to the masses of tourists that visit the rip off republic. But seeing American tourists parading around our beautiful city in XXL Aran island jumpers is only the beginning. The dreaded Rose of Tralee. The ultimate saturation of Plastic Paddy wishy washy 'oirish' culture. And available to anyone it seems, who wants to buy into this yone who buys into the diddly o'diddly aye culture.<br />
<br />
I know a few people who have applied to be Roses and plastered it all over facebook.<br />
And I've kept silent until now. <br />
<br />
I still cannot understand why they bother to broadcast it on Irish television anymore.<br />
Is watching Mary Catherine O'Yank reciting a beautiful 'wee' poem about the green hills of Ireland while convincing Daithí O'Se about the legitimacy of her 'Irishness' and ethnicity your idea of a good time? Television licence money well spent again, RTE.<br />
<br />
My favourite part of the 'festival'*?<br />
<br />
Watching the glassy eyed parents and family members in the audience as they look on proudly as their daughter becomes the new walking advertisement for Newbridge jewellery and the other generic sponsors. <br />
<br />
The most accurate and perhaps <i>only </i>honest depiction of the contest was portrayed on an episode 'Father Ted', in form of 'The Lovely Girl contest':<br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KnYoFmBagmk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br />
People will always stand by the argument that this 'Festival' generates a lot of money for Irish tourism. And to that, I shall say this.<br />
<br />
Do we really need and/or want a glorified beauty pageant to be one of our 'selling points'?<br />
<br />
Do we really need to endure much more of this nonsense?<br />
<br />
This pageant should have been buried somewhere in the last century, where it belongs. <br />
<br />
* = glorified beauty pageant。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-4412440393485299182012-04-02T11:51:00.000-07:002012-04-02T13:24:33.892-07:00Oh I do love judgmental 'rants'So there I was, browsin' away..<br />
<br />
Looking for some new blogs to follow and I came across a young woman's blog.<br />
<i>I will not name names, I do not intend for my blog to become the instigator of 'drama'.. this is a blog after all, not an episode of Jersey shore.</i><br />
<br />
First, this blogger felt the need to identify different types of women, all based on their size. Uh oh, basing people's worth on their size and athletic participation? Here we go... this should be good.<br />
This blog post revolved around attacking others.<br />
And believe me, it condemned a lot of people.<br />
Condemning people or 'fatties' who are uncomfortable about their current size and simply vocalize it (god forbid, a 'fatty' might open their mouth for something other then eating pies..). Condemning those who enjoy a treat after a work out. Condemning women who go to the gym and don't do 'enough'.<br />
Ha, the only people she didn't condemn were women like herself; who apparently NEVER indulge and do better then everyone else in the gym.<br />
<br />
And before I receive the award for hypocrite of the year, let me just say; I am not condemning this girl. I just feel sorry for her. The fact that she is more concerned about how much <i>other </i>women are doing in the gym says it all really.<br />
Her whole post reeked of 'praise me, oh won't you praise me'.<br />
When you decide to criticise others, in order to put yourself on a pedestal.. well I'd urge you to take a good long hard look at yourself. Maybe you're not as great as you think you are.<br />
<br />
I am not one of these 'Go love the world' types. . I am not into the recycled feel good shite one would find in the self help aisle of the bookshop however..<br />
<br />
I feel sorry for this blogger because it seems that she can not see past people's looks and their body weight.<br />
<br />
It's sad that we live in a society where one cannot look past ones weight.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/fULtU2NfPQA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />
If she is reading this (haha.. fat chance.. yes pun is motherfucking intended), I'd like you to know that you have bitten off more then you can chew.<br />
It's fine if you live in a nice middle class existence, where you can afford such 'frivolities' as organic food, artificial supplements and gym memberships.<br />
What about families living on an extremely low income? It's a vicious cycle. These people are uneducated about health, cannot afford healthcare and living in a society where TWO mcdonalds meals costs less then a box of cigarettes?<br />
<br />
Inform yourself before you speak.<br />
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Stop worry so much about others, stop judging so harshly.。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-38056400129401941132012-03-25T17:22:00.006-07:002012-06-29T12:07:44.924-07:00Why mormonism hasn't caught on in Ireland.We all love the ever-wacky mormon faith of Mormonism don't we?<br />
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Well aparently, in Ireland... we don't! Not on purpose of course. We just haven't been given the opportunity to embrace the teachings of a religion that proposes that native Americans were actually Israeli immigrants and that dinosaur bones are from distant galaxies that were brought together when Jesus created the earth 6000 years ago.**</div>
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Yep, Mormonism certainly is a lot to swallow.<br />
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It's the ultimate hybrid of evangelist christianity and outward American westernized nuclear family nonsense. The whole thing is a mish mash of teen purity seminars, odd cult-like ceremonies (baptizing the dead anyone?) and happy smiling white families. Throw some door knocking missionaries into the mix and you've got the Church of Latter Day Saints, or the Mormon faith as they are more commonly known.</div>
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It even got it's own South Park episode <a href="http://www.southparkstudios.com/clips/104253/joseph-smith-part-1">(dumb dumb dumb anyone?)</a></div>
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<a href="http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/?action=view&current=mormons.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/mormons.jpg" /></a><br />
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Okay so maybe it's an easy target. But don't feel <i>too</i> sorry for the Mormons. They have over 14 million* members worldwide! And with no signs of going broke either due to the church policy that demands 10%+ of a families income**. That's a lot of ehm 'freely given' donations. </div>
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But growing at such a rapid speed, would they ever consider opening a Temple or two here in little aul Ireland?</div>
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Well, I compiled a short yet concise list on why our Mormon pals might want to just ignore the Emerald Isle completely. </div>
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1. Eccentric 'religions', don't tend to catch on in 'we're catholic... when it suits us' Ireland. Or any kind of faith/relgion/cult that goes against the Lazy Catholic mentality. </div>
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Example: Somewhat pseudo-science, somewhat occupied with money making 'religion' Scientology can vouch for us on this one. Official 'Church' documents in 2011 have revealed that Scientology Ireland Ltd. is over €688,000 in debt and their revenue has dropped by 60%.*** In fact, the American Scientologists had to bail them out of trouble a good few times. There is something hilarious about the whole situation. </div>
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And it seems this failing religion is becoming more and more desperate.</div>
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A friend of mine reported that he found a very interesting stall in our local market, a (empty) dianetic/scientology-tastic stall. </div>
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Come on now. You really need to set up shop between a cake stand and a brick and brack/jumble sale to get more members?</div>
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Mormonism, please take note.</div>
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2. I cannot see the fashion aspects of Mormonism becoming a selling point either. </div>
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Never mind the whole, nothing above your knees/elbows/no cleavage rules. </div>
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I'm talking about Magical Mormon underwear. Or 'Temple Underwear'. </div>
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I'll let this informative video do the explaining:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6cbfgmorIGE" width="560"></iframe></div>
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Just an FYI to you Mormon recruiters; <b>you'd be LUCKY to come across a group of Irish girls even wearing underwear. </b></div>
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Don't believe me?</div>
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Frequent any popular Dublin nightclub on a Saturday night.<br />
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3. So Mormons don't consume alcohol nor do they smoke tobacco. Drugs are a complete no-no and caffeinated products are included. No more cuppa tea. Put down those John Player ciggies. Stop trying to hide your naggins of vodka from the Prophet; he's not an underpaid doorman at some low rate nightclub. He sees all!</div>
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Well. Without even bringing the whole alcohol thing into the equation.. I've never met an Irish person that doesn't enjoy a good cuppa tea. </div>
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However, I can feel the Mormons breathing down my neck with a 'solution':</div>
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Please. Don't even suggest it. Not that herbal shite. We like a nice strong cuppa. Caffeine and all thanks. </div>
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A decent cuppa tea is central to irish life and culture. Don't you even dare try and stop them. I'm telling you all now, if you start to trying to take away the tea, you'll run into a lot of troubles... fast.</div>
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4. There is a certain rule within the Church; If one is not a Mormon, one cannot enter the Temple. <b>This could pose troublesome for the foundations of big ol' Irish extended families </b>and I'll tell you a fable of what could happen to the Irish family based on real Mormon events/practises:</div>
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Picture this, if you will.</div>
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Mark and Aoife have become mormons. They liked the swing of things and decided that it was right for them.</div>
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After a years of solid chastity, wholesome group dating, non violent youth events and various non-secular single sex activities, Mark proposed to Aoife who gladly accepted. </div>
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<b>But.</b> I forgot to mention an important fact here.</div>
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Aoife had joined the Mormon faith with the encouragement of her family; aunts, parents, uncles, cousins. To them, Mormon-ism was a shared faith within the family. </div>
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Mark had joined alone. His family were disinterested in the somewhat conservative and sexist manners of the Church. As a single parent, Mark's mother had enough to be worrying about however Mark made a mature choice to respect his families decision as he continued into a life of Mormonism. </div>
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Why is this important?</div>
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Well it was <i>supposed</i> to be a happy day for all involved. The happiest day of someones life in fact; their wedding.</div>
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So why was it that Mark's mam and sisters, his favourite auntie and his late father's best friend had to wait outside in the car-park while Mark wed his blushing bride?</div>
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Because they had simply decided not to become members of the Mormon faith. </div>
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So this religion that claims they are all about 'love', has condemned the non-believers. </div>
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One who truly understands the basis of most major religions could point out that no religion gives total authority to humans to condemn their fellow man. After all is that not 'Gods' job? </div>
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I don't even know where to begin with that last point. If your religion is all about love and acceptance why are you locking people out of your sacred temples? </div>
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Maybe I'm a not part of the God-squad, but I can tell you all something for nothing. When the Mormon faith wouldn't let Mark's family see him on arguable the happiest day of his life.. when his family were told they were not 'worthy'... that was not love. </div>
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I'll let you decide Ireland.</div>
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<b><i>Personally I think the omnipresence of the Catholic church in this country is bad enough. </i></b></div>
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The catholic church here is like a bad coldsore virus; a virus that always seems to be there in one way or another causing upset or disgust and just does not feck off.</div>
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But I don't know.</div>
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Maybe we should have <i>"I'm a Major Relgion, get me outta here" </i>reality show. I'm thinking battle to death, hunger games/post apocalyptic shit. The winner receives tax exempt status within the Republic of Ireland. </div>
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I'm not sure the Mormons would appreciate my opinions right now, especially seeing as I am under the influence (oh red bull.. you devil you)</div>
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Let me know your thoughts. </div>
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Love and rockets,</div>
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Ruth x</div>
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Just a few sources:</div>
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* - http://lds.about.com/od/mormons/a/church_membership.htm</div>
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**- http://jyledupuis.hubpages.com/hub/What-Mormons-Really-Believe</div>
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*** -http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Revenue-at-Irish-Church-of-Scientology-drops-by-60-percent-126610713.html</div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-89891402838669037562012-03-05T06:38:00.006-08:002012-03-26T13:15:36.915-07:00Socializing for dummies 101: PartiesThis post (or series of posts in socializing; I haven't decided how active I will be in my efforts) is dedicated to my partner in crime, Kyle.<div>He's decided to 'give people a chance'; he's socializing more and actively trying to increase his standing in certain social groups and of course this will all help his efforts to turn his life around. </div><div>I know.</div><div>I don't understand it either. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do want to help him though (yes, I know I'm an enabler), so I have kicked this guide off with a guide to parties.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://i1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg621/sunshine-acid/bad-taste-party-i.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Some of the fun people you will meet at parties.</i></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div>I can't help you understand the logic behind why people chose to have parties.. but I can make the whole experience a hell of a lot less gut retching. </div><div>So dear readers, fear not.</div><div>If you are in the process of organizing a social event and you don't know where to start; simply follow my invitation template. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Beginning:</b></div><div>Your presence will be tolerated at..</div><div>You are reluctantly invited to..</div><div>You are un-cordially invited to..</div><div>Sick of your own company? Why not drag yourself to..</div><div>Why don't you drag your arse to.. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Suggested themes</b></div><div>..an all ages strip poker night</div><div>..a low calorie dinner party</div><div>..an unsocial social gathering of sorts</div><div>..a post modern Anne Summers sales pitch</div><div>..not a scam-tastic timeshare pitch.. I swear!</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Reel them in with the details</b></div><div>- Limited selection of crisps and dip will be provided</div><div>- Proof of intelligence required for entry</div><div>- Processed cheese and dry pineapple will be served</div><div>- Bring your own toilet paper </div><div>- Bring your own arsenic</div><div>- Bring up religion, conspiracy theories, politics</div></div><div><br /><a href="http://s1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg621/sunshine-acid/?action=view&current=Boring-Party.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg621/sunshine-acid/Boring-Party.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>For those of you brave enough to drag yourself to someone else's crappy attempt to have a party, I only have one vital tip for you;</div><div>1. Upon entering the venue note all the exit points. This is crucial if you decide to make a fleeing attempt later on. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>If anyone else has any contributions/tips ect, please leave them in the comments. </i></div><div><i>And if anyone would like to read about Kyle and his efforts to socialize featuring other shenanigans, visit him <a href="http://themostsilenthill.blogspot.com/">here.</a></i></div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-41472452583777410342012-03-01T04:51:00.004-08:002012-03-01T05:29:03.857-08:00Don't, don't knock my door<b>Conversation with a Jehovah's witness at the door:</b><div><br /></div><div><i>JW: Hi, do you have a few moments to talk?</i></div><div>Me: Em. No.</div><div><i>JW: Well actually, we are just here to talk to you about the good word of the Lord</i></div><div>Me: Been there, done that.. did that whole catholic thing for a few years. </div><div><i>JW: We're actually here from..</i></div><div>Me: Yeah Jehovah's witnesses, I get it</div><div><i>JW: *sighs* what are you GOALS in life?</i></div><div>Me: My goal is not to wake up at 40 and have to knock on doors converting people, living with the bitter realization that I've wasted my life in a wacky 'religion' that I actually hate because I changed my religious beliefs as a young adult based on the preachings of a door-to-door conversions.</div><div><br /></div><div>He walked off.</div><div><i>How rude.</i></div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-58092823878544773852012-02-28T09:16:00.003-08:002012-03-19T15:29:11.379-07:00Gourmet Guide to pleasurable pizza: 4 star pizza<b>As a public service, I have personally visited/ordered pizza from every place within a 20-mile radius of my crap-hole of a town, Dun Laoghaire.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>It's hard work but someone needs to do it.<br /></b><div><br /></div><div><b><i>1. Four Star Pizza</i></b></div><br /><a href="http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/?action=view&current=DSC00077.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k133/inner-ana/DSC00077.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><div><br /></div><div>I was initially nervous about the quality I was going to receive from these people. Why do they call it four star? Why did they feel a need to not give themselves five stars? The whole thing whiffed of suspicious pepperoni if you catch my drift.</div><div>None the less, I took the plunge.</div><div><br /></div><div>Delivery was extremely quick and pizza was delicious.</div><div>Pizza itself? Outstanding mozzarella stretch. Great crust to sauce ratio.</div><div>I ordered potato wedges as my side dish and I will admit, I was apprehensive. Potato wedges are often a hit and miss with most pizza joints but these wedges were baked to perfection; crispy on the outside and soft and mushy on the inside. All served with the obligatory sticky sweet BBQ sauce. </div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe in this case four star pizza employed a clever marketing ploy.</div><div>My verdict?</div></div><div><br /></div><div>9/10</div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-33714424746082553862012-02-24T01:45:00.010-08:002012-03-13T17:04:17.179-07:00Top 5: worst dublin bus experiences<div>This is somewhat of an ode to Dublin bus and many of the.. interesting experiences I've had on various trips with Dublin Bus.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5013/5527644326_0b091fffca.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div>5. Last week, an 'interesting' smelling chap on the 7b decided it would be proper order to read out the <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4c/Easter_Proclamation_of_1916.png">Irish Republic proclamation of 1916. </a> It was an interesting interpretation to say the least. <div><br /></div><div>4. On a dusky Summer night last year, I had the pleasure of experiencing Herbert the Pervert on the 46a. Every time a member of the female sex would walk up the stairs of the bus, Herbert would proceed to greet them with one of his charming one liners.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Jaysis love.. they're some fine cacas on ye!"</div><div>"LOVE! LOVE! I saved ye a seat over here next to me! Don't be shy me aul flower!"</div><div>"Don't be givin me tha look love, ye probably have a c*** on ye like a burst couch"</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Charming. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>3. We've all been tourists. I get it. But American tourists, for the love of God, if you're going to venture out of your cheesy melting pot, at least know the basics of where you're staying. The 46a was held up for a good 10 - 15 minutes at St. Stephens green because a herd of yanks decided to try out Dublin bus in all it's glory. After the majority of them payed their fare, they asked the bus driver how long it would take to get to Bunratty. </div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>For those of you who are privileged enough to live outside the Republic of Ireland, Bunratty would be about 2 hours away from Dublin and not a destination on the local dublin buses....</i></div><div><br /></div><div>After the bus driver muttered some colourful language followed by "you'll be waiting a long time if you sit on the 46a waiting to go to bunratty", the yanks realized their mistake. Apparently, Ireland does not have just one big long road. </div><div>The icing on the cake came when the angry Americans vacated the bus and one of them panted <i>"God, how big can Ireland be?!"</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>2. Exhausted didn't even cover how tired I was coming home from work on the 4 one day. So you can imagine my utter delight when I walked up the stairs of the bus and saw two drunk travellers (irish gypsies) sitting at the back of the bus... singing. Just think of the worst x-factor audition you've ever seen and multiply it by 10. Traveller woman decided that her 'poor auld uncle Willie' would be the centerpiece of her medley. A medley that never seemed to stop! </div><div><br /></div><div>"me poor aul uncle willie.. he had but nuttin.. he tried and tried.. hadn't even a button"</div><div><br /></div><div>Mind blowing stuff. </div><div><br /></div><div>Traveller woman was similar to Herbert the Pervert because she too had her own way of 'welcoming' and saying goodbye to other patrons of the bus. I couldn't understand much of what she was shouting, but she shouted "get off ye fuckin tramp ye' to some posh woman (quickly) exiting the bus at Blackrock.</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Those of you who live in Dublin were probably waiting for this one. I have countlessly, sat on the bus (mainly the 46a) during the Summer months with rowdy, noisy (and horny) Spanish students. </div><div><ul><li>On trip A, two Spanish 'amigos' decided to get it on at the back of the 46a. Everytime the bus went over a bump, the pair would make an eh.. interesting series of noises. </li><li>On trip B, a Spanish student accused some lad sitting next him of stealing his phone. The poor guy had no idea what was going on until the Spanish boy's amigo found his phone in his pocket. No apologies to the poor chap who was berated in Span-glish for 20 minutes. Just more obnoxious noisy Spanish banter.</li></ul><div><b><i>Honourable mentions that didn't make the list:</i></b></div><div><i>- Homeless man on the 7 who told me an epic tale of why one should never do heroin with a chinese prostitute. </i></div><div><i>- The exhausted old fucker who fell asleep and started snoring so loudly that people were avoiding sitting next to him.</i></div><div><i>- Underage spoilt rich girls on the way to Wezz (an underage disco) in the most revealing and hideous outfits I've ever seen begging me to throw them a few cigerettes. They're persistant. I'll give them that much.</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What about you lot? Anyone else experience these sort of fun and games?</div></div><div>Keep on truckin' (and/or bus-ing) until then</div><div>Love and rockets,</div><div>Ruth x</div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-37961390268916647262012-02-15T01:39:00.000-08:002012-02-15T02:10:19.726-08:00Snapshot<b>Listening/Watching/Wearing/Reading/Wanting:</b><div><br /></div><div><b>Listening:</b> I've got to admit, I'm listening to a slightly eccentric tune from Sir Paul; a certain ode to his English lameness if you will, 'we all stand together'. It brings back a lot of memories, my father used to have his Paul McCartney cassette tapes playing constantly when I was a child and this song was always my favourite. </div><br /><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0auCDOERZyE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><div><br /></div><div><b>Watching: </b>I watched 'Alice in Wonderland' right before I nodded off last night and had some pretty freaky dreams. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Wearing:</b> An oversized (well oversized on little 5ft me...) pink Illustrated People shirt, generic black leggings and a grey cardigan from topshop. If I decide to go to college today to some (much needed) study, it will do. If not, its cozy as fuck.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Reading:</b> A lot of Yeats. Semi-willingly. Of course as an english student, one would expect to study Yeats in great detail but I feel like I've been pushed into an overdose of some sort. The man has produced some great literary work, don't get me wrong... but yeah, complete overdose. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Wanting:</b> I saw these leopard print flats in Schue yesterday night and it was love at first sight... (as with me and <i>most</i> things leopard print).</div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rKVvnlZTT5VOVn9np-FD18-EXNQmoHBQdKrjbzYQtfLJLcI-LV6Jy2hyphenhyphenO1pwhBni6dfUSVRh4g8SimYnWOgxu-VemPIvaicvHk0MKQLhZGEUK4GhaTjG4RfU3PDoeDn6jEiewUN8TXJv/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-15+at+09.57.14.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rKVvnlZTT5VOVn9np-FD18-EXNQmoHBQdKrjbzYQtfLJLcI-LV6Jy2hyphenhyphenO1pwhBni6dfUSVRh4g8SimYnWOgxu-VemPIvaicvHk0MKQLhZGEUK4GhaTjG4RfU3PDoeDn6jEiewUN8TXJv/s320/Screen+shot+2012-02-15+at+09.57.14.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709299796449258322" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Sadly, I'm flat out broke!</div><div>Don't cry for me (yet) Argentina, tomorrow is payday and I feel a splurge of some sort coming about.</div><div><br /></div><div>(of course all financial contributions are gladly excepted)</div><div>until then</div><div>love and rockets,</div><div>Ruth.</div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-8382106934954670782012-02-12T18:08:00.000-08:002012-02-15T02:18:20.295-08:00Review: (detailed!) The Sims 3<span class="Apple-style-span"><i><span class="Apple-style-span">I will be doing a full reviews on expansion packs for the Sims 3, but I thought I'd get the ball rolling with a review of the Sims 3 for PC/Mac.</span></i><br /></span><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span">Official game trailer:</span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LPnK9JHoddc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br /></span></i></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Ever wonder why God lets bad things happen?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Play the Sims and you'll soon find out. It's fun to have the ultimate control over your creations <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJYzPjBAneU">(and for some reason people are now finding in fun in creating wackier and wackier ways of killing their creations.. it's slightly sadistic but still fun to try)</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Fuck it, it's even fun to even create yourself in sim version... (well you might make some 'slight' improvements, I went from a cup size B in real life to what looked like a D cup in my Sim version). Just be warned, when 'you' achieve the perfect life... you will most likely develop deep jealous feelings and end up killing your poor sim in the most imaginative form possible (see link above).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div>To begin, I know that the Sims is a major franchise and a lot of you will probably of played some form of the game in your lives. For those you who were avid Sims 2 players, there are several improvements to the base game but there are several 'non-improvements' that would make you seriously question the logic of EA/Maxis...</div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Positive improvements include;</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- Travel is much more realistic. Now your Sim walk to the park, drive to the movies after work or get a cab home to your 'lot'. You do not spend hours staring at loading screens while this is happening as technically, the whole town is your 'lot'.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- Sims have personality 'traits' now, which shapes what type of person they will be. Although there has been a lot of debate over this, I believe that picking your sims personality traits is a positive move from the primitive 'Zodiac' system.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- The scenery within the game is beautifully done. This is probably the strangest aspect of the game. Almost everything is detailed and realistic. The sun rises and sets gradually now as asposed to the sudden 'lights on, lights off' at 7am/7pm within TS2.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><a href="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090528213911/sims/images/thumb/7/76/Sunset_Valley.JPG/508px-Sunset_Valley.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 508px; height: 395px;" src="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090528213911/sims/images/thumb/7/76/Sunset_Valley.JPG/508px-Sunset_Valley.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /></span></span></span></div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> </span></span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span">Sunset Valley, beautiful scenic suburban base town </span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span">'EA, the fuck you were you thinking'/un-improvements include;</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- <span class="Apple-style-span">No weather in the base game! And to this point (13th Feb, 2012), there is no expansion pack that includes weather. Enough said.</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- There are certain aspects of the game that will make you instantly think 'lazy programming'. Such as when you drive your car/take a cab, you/the cab driver will<span class="Apple-style-span"> drive straight through any oncoming traffic or cyclists. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- Emphasis is taken off relationship developments in the Sims 3 especially when you compare it to The Sims 2. You do not need to obtain friends in order to advance within the game and IMO, this makes the game less challenging.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">- It still seems like theres not enough time in the day. Your Sim is knackered after work and accomplishing even the smallest tasks seem to take up huge chunks of time. 2 hours to do the grocery shopping? I don't think so, EA.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xmrE1cpCG_LRVUEoh6Gioh2ISwsC02kyTpGCF9aNdz-9Wdr_IOz0diw0sHLE1rrANCx0NRQiYrDc-x579x3Xp3x1KZL3533ZG4AbgYYFMKg-VAeVZ3YDuYdODi4HvhUSSMki1NHM-871/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-13+at+03.23.44.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xmrE1cpCG_LRVUEoh6Gioh2ISwsC02kyTpGCF9aNdz-9Wdr_IOz0diw0sHLE1rrANCx0NRQiYrDc-x579x3Xp3x1KZL3533ZG4AbgYYFMKg-VAeVZ3YDuYdODi4HvhUSSMki1NHM-871/s320/Screen+shot+2012-02-13+at+03.23.44.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708455968901180930" /></a><br /><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>Annoying, seemingly lazy programming </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">I know, I know.. I haven't said the inevitable yet... if the Sims community forums has taught us anything, it's that there are different 'types' of Sims players. So, I'll break it down.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span">New Sims Players: 3/5</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">I didn't know where to start for you guys. All I can say is that the Sims in general, is very hit and miss. For some people, it can prove to be an addiction and for some other people it can prove to be one of the most repetitive things since Tyra Banks's talk show. All I'll say is, you need to play it for yourself in order to make your mind up. If you're into video games with a solid beginning, middle and end... forget about it. If you like the idea of having the freedom to come up with your own stories/plots, then maybe this is one for you. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span">House builders: 4/5</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">You will love the Sims 3 if you're into building houses for your Sims. It's easier to customize the textures and designs of your house now. Also, you can now do more with furniture itself, such as place it at angles or customize the colour/design (hello tacky leopard print rooms!). The reason I gave the house building aspect for the base game a 4 out of 5 though is due to the limited amount of furniture you receive in the base game. If you like building various houses throughout the neighbourhood, it is done slightly arseways. On the main menu of the map within the town, you'll need to click 'edit town'. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>(FYI - those of you into building all sorts of mad big places in the Sims should check out <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TheCurtisParadisShow?feature=watch">The Curtis Paradis Show. </a> This guy is man when it comes to making obnoxiously big and fabulous houses.. he's even done a Sims 3 version of the White House... yes THE WHITE HOUSE!! I chose not to watch his videos, they tend to put me in a 'I'm inspired to do things I can't achieve' mode and I end up frustrated with shitty houses)</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><b>Neighbourhood Building players: 1/5</b></div><div>If you enjoyed building neighbourhoods in the Sims 2, you're going to be epically dissapointed with TS3. You can only 'customize' your base town, Sunset valley. You can download more worlds from the Sims website but still, you're confined to the one world. There is a 'create-a-world' tool available to download from the Sims website but it is in BETA and for PC only. It's extremly hard to use, unless you know your stuff!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>'God' Players: 1/5</b></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Because the Sims 3 is more of a 'game', then a story telling tool.. those of you who enjoy creating multi-families, will NOT be impressed as you can only manage one family at a time. EA has demoted you guys from God status. </span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span">- If you enjoyed <b>creating Sims</b>, I can assure you that the new create a Sim feature is very well developed with good graphics and cool new features.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /><a href="http://www.enjoy-your-style.com/images/create-a-sim.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 460px; height: 345px;" src="http://www.enjoy-your-style.com/images/create-a-sim.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>Create-a-Sim</i><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">And for those of you who enjoy the pleasure of having children within the game, I believe it's improved heaps and miles. You can now have a 'realistic' pregnancy (morning sickness included, lucky sim), dote on a newborn that will progress from a whinging toddler to a demanding child. And from demanding child spawns the spoilt teenage Sim. You can also have a 'young adult Sim' now which adds a nice new dimension to the game.</span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /><a href="http://ui01.gamespot.com/2852/sims3familypic_2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 451px; height: 500px;" src="http://ui01.gamespot.com/2852/sims3familypic_2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></span><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span">Family within the Sims 3</span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Overall verdict:</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">If you are new to the Sims franchise and like the idea of having the freedom to create your own 'stories', you will probably enjoy the game.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">If you are an avid fan of TS2, beware and approach with caution! There will be of course elements that will please you and some other elements... not so much! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">If anyone has any questions/observations about the game, feel free to say so in the comments.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Writing this has made me want to waste some study time on the Sims.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Until then</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Love and rockets,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Ruth. </span></div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3796087508499166818.post-70045449763131296342012-02-12T13:27:00.000-08:002012-02-12T13:45:14.695-08:00Sunshine Acid.<span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I wish I had some kind of claim to fame to throw in here, but I really don't.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I'm not a fashionista, I am not a style guru.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I </span><i style="line-height: 20px; ">do</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"> hold the world record in drinking the most carbonated caffeine in an hour (for legal reasons, I can't say how much). It's one of those records that those pussies at Guinness Records won't publish. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I'm not entirely sure what I will post yet. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">But bare with me. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Love and rockets,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Ruth.</span></span></div>。♥‿♥。 Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17580076956960028004noreply@blogger.com0