Subscription Overload

I had something else lined up for today, but I wanted to clear my folder out some.  When I scanned the other day, I for some reason scanned some magazines I had nearby.  Just the covers, but not really sure why I did it.  I guess I wanted to show what kind of magazines I get.  So today I am showing off magazine covers.  Why not, its a lazy Sunday and it will clean up the folder and then I can scan more stuff if need be later.  So here we go.

PRICE: FREE!

I am signed up to about 4-5 different survey sites and visit a couple websites often and come across a lot of free magazines.  The purpose of one survey site is specifically for magazines.  At one point I was getting over 30 (closer to 40) magazines at a time.  I've cut that down considerably.

This was a magazine I was looking forward to when I saw it was available.  In the past when I'd visit doctor's offices and whatnot there would be photographer magazines and I usually liked them.  When I first got this a few months ago, I was pretty excited.  Lately it seems I don't read it cover to cover like I first did.  The pictures are amazing though.  If I get the chance to resubscribe for free I might.  I usually wait a few months after the subscription runs out so I can decide if I miss it or not.  If I still want it then I will get it again.

PRICE: $20 for 4 years (or something similar)

This magazine I got for my mom.  I'm not saying I don't read it, as I usually do, but my mom usually buys them when we go to the store so I figured this would be cheaper.  I got it after my sister Andrea passed away mainly because aside from being cheaper, it would take my mom's mind off things even if for a short bit.  Since its one I have to pay for, I think we'll drop it once it runs out.  Oddly enough its either our tastes have changed or because I've gotten so many magazines that we don't care as much for Star anymore.  If I found it for free a few months down the road though (as I do see on occasion) I would likely pick it up.

DAMN!  Oops, sorry.

PRICE: FREE!

OK.... DAMN! Carrie Underwood looks good!  I've always thought that though.  Too bad most of her songs I don't care for, but there are a few.  Anyways US Weekly much like Star is one that we don't care about as much anymore, but this one was free and was a bit of a challenge to get, so whenever I see it for free I get it.  I like it better than Star because it seems a little less gossip-y and a little more informative.  I just started getting it a couple months ago so I still have it for a bit longer.

PRICE: FREE!

Another one I just recently got, its also sometimes tough to find for free.  I jumped at this because I  wanted to see how they cover the Olympics and wanted to get back into reading more baseball articles.  Another reason is the site I used (Reward Survey) doesn't have a lot of great options so when a good one pops up I take it (you get 20 bucks per weekly survey and it adds up quick, I haven't done a survey in 3 months and still have like $300 bucks in the account, and you can only use it on about 12 magazines).  I got it along with SI for Kids (which I haven't got yet) and have already read some good articles in it.  Its another one I would read at doctor's offices (my dad would have to go to the doctor a lot) and SI is without a doubt better than ESPN The Magazine (I never subscribe to that even when free), but I must admit I liked Sporting News better.  I also got Sports Illustrated in case the Royals make it to another World Series and I won't have to rush out and buy them.  Too bad I couldn't find this the last two years (I tried believe me).

PRICE: ???

I didn't know we got this.  My mom informed me that she subscribed to it along with another magazine.  I usually tell her not to because I can find a lot of them cheap or free online, but I don't think I've seen this one and my mom is thrifty when buying, so I know it wasn't much.  I haven't read this one yet, but I have a feeling I might browse through it each month.  Its not one I would rush out to get, but sometimes I like looking at different magazines, so this might give me ideas on a couple chairs I want to refurbish.  I might give an update in a future edition of this feature (yeah, I might do this once a month or a couple times a year, its fun to do and easy to scan).

PRICE: FREE!

I've gotten this for free off and on for at least 5 years, but lately I read it less.  Once my subscription runs out I doubt I get it again at least for a year.  It has some good articles sometimes, but not enough to keep getting it.  Besides I've always been interested in business and business news, but lately my interest isn't as high as it used to be.  My main focus these days when it comes to business is more local.

PRICE: FREE!

Another one I got for my mom.  She likes reading almost anything she can get her hands on, and I thought she would like this.  She didn't at first, but when the subscription ran out  she kinda missed it, so I got it again when I found it.  Sometimes it has some good articles in it, and to their credit, they are lengthy and really not a lot of photos on main articles, so I do like that.  Its also fun to see the local NYC ads and some of the events in New York.  Its one of the rare few that if I found it for sale at a deep discount (if I couldn't find it free), that I would consider getting since my mom likes it.  As it stands though, I don't have to worry about that for now.

PRICE: FREE!

Another had to find for free magazine, and one that I just recently got (I haven't even read this one yet), I've always been on the lookout for People.  I wouldn't call it a gossip mag and it has good articles.  This is one you have to be close to a computer to snatch up for free, but its worth it if you know when its available.  I have another cover to show in a week or two featuring Ali (I have 3 covers to show at this point) and when I do I might show some of the insides of the magazine.

PRICE: FREE!

Much like Inc., I've been getting Fast Company for a few years off and on. Also like Inc., when this runs out, I'll hold off for a bit.  I actually read Fast Company more, and it actually has interesting articles, but as you can see, I get a lot of magazines, and want to weed some out before I start getting more.  What I like about FC is that it talks to businesses I haven't heard of that end up breaking out like Snapchat (though I still don't use Snapchat), or companies that sound really cool but never really get off the ground (can't think of any at the moment).  Its been a while since I last remember reading much of FC, but I do remember reading about a year ago about a company called Jet that was from a former head of Amazon.  It was pretty good, and now I see Jet advertisements so I guess they are doing good.  Aside from their special edition magazines, I prefer Fast Company over Forbes, which I think just ran out as I haven't seen it in a while.  The only thing I hate about Fast Company is their sandpaper feel of the cover.  It just feels odd and I prefer smooth magazine covers.

BONUS!

This isn't a magazine, but it was close by, and thought I'd scan it.  Its a little pamphlet for the Missouri State Fair.  If you are ever in Missouri during the Missouri State Fair.... take 63 or 65 Highways, head north to Des Moines, Iowa and go to the Iowa State Fair!

Sorry, nothing against the Missouri State Fair, its nice, but how can I put this.... think of it like Rudy explaining Notre Dame Football to his dad.  Its cool to see on TV (which would be the Missouri State Fair in this comparison), but its a whole other experience seeing it in person (Iowa State Fair).  Maybe that wasn't clear.  My point is the Missouri State Fair is good, but the Iowa State Fair is far better.  Better variety, better concerts, better events, better food, better free stuff... just an overall better experience.  Since Sedalia is a lot closer to me than Des Moines though, I go to it more often (though not every year in fact haven't been in 5 years or so).  I might go this year, and if I do, I'll take plenty of pictures and hopefully take in a band at the Budweiser tent (though they haven't announced who's playing yet, though nobody famous plays it).

Alright so one magazine left to show though this isn't all that I get, these were just ones I had nearby that my mom had finished reading.  She usually reads them first then I do, this way if I toss it, I know she has read it already.  Next time I'll show other magazines I get as well.

PRICE:???

Before my sister passed away, she subscribed to this magazine.  A year or two when the subscription ran out my mom decided to renew it as a way to remember her.  It is cheaper then the cover price, but its not hugely discounted.  This magazine is actually a local one in terms of its headquarters (in nearby Boonville and also in Columbia), but it covers the entire state.  It is one that I still read cover to cover, and to be honest, one of the few that I would recommend to other people.  It also manages to get a sports story or two thrown in every couple of months so that's nice.  It also has a calendar of events that showcases a lot of variety of events.  I haven't read this much yet, but what I have read in this issue I have liked.  I think we get it for another year before we need to renew, but when the time comes, we'll get it again.

As you can see, I have a large variety of magazines I subscribe to, and while I get a lot for my mom, I also just prefer holding a magazine as I'm not much of a nook reader (I don't even have a nook).  My mom never touches a computer, so her reading an ebook is out of the question so holding a print magazine is the only option.  I know print may be dying out, but until it takes its last gasp, I'll be subscribing.  To bad Tuff Stuff wasn't still around or I can never find Beckett discounted cheaper, but as you can tell, I think I have plenty of other options.

That wraps it up for today, thanks for reading, and have a great week.

Music and Hockey and Invented Sports ... Oh My

A couple weeks ago I won a couple packs of hockey cards from one of my favorite sellers on Listia.  Days went by then a couple weeks, and nothing showed up yet.  So I inquired about it and no reply.  I wasn't real worried because I wouldn't be stiffed.  Another day went by and no reply, and I checked to see if they was checking in each day.  They were, so I felt after 19 days, I had no choice but to file a complaint.  I didn't want to, but this was the third time this year that I've had to do this, and both times were new seller.  This time was a regular and I didn't want to, but since credits have skyrocketed, my credits are essentially worthless, so being out a 1000 credits means a lot.  So I filed the complaint, and it seems like minutes later, they sent a tracking number, and it was out for delivery.  I ended up getting them yesterday, the day I filed the complaint, and I apologized and told them I still will buy from them.  The only thing that made me mad was the no real communication.  I know they are a big seller and have many items to keep track of, but when I inquired the other day they could have sent the tracking then.  Even reply with saying sorry for the delay, but because of Memorial Day, packages were slow to ship.  I would have been happy, but with me spending less time on Listia lately, I tend to watch items I won more closely.  I hope to get some credits soon and get more, but for know I need to be more thrifty than ever.

So needless to say, I got the cards, and here they are.  It was a couple packs that I have been curious about for a while, but never seen much and not a high priority to actually spend money on.

Yes sir, I'm talking about 7th Inning Sketch!  I've heard about these, but never found any.  I got both packs for a total of 1000 credits, which is roughly 10 cents.  Can't beat that.  So as I waited for them to arrive (I should have done this BEFORE I bid) I looked at the checklist.  Since I'm not a hockey guy, there aren't many names I know.  But if I could just get one guy I know its worth it.  So let's look at the first pack.

I'm not familiar with the Ontario Hockey League, bit I do like these designs, especially for 1991.  I might even make a similar design for future customs.  I don't recognize the names, but HEY, I got a Royals card!  Maybe not a Kansas City Royal, but still, it was nice to see.  I wonder if Angelo Amore is related to WWE star Enzo?  YOU CAN'T TEACH THAT!  How you doing?

Alright, enough catchphrases, lets get to the rest of the pack.

10 cards in a pack, so the backs of the card are from the cards in the first scan.  Not bad for backs, they are basic but they tell all the info.  Look at that, this was a Royals hot pack!  None of these names sound familiar so I can't say it was a great pack or not, but I had enjoyment opening it, so that is good enough for me.  Not to mention it equated to a nickel, if I found these packs for sale for a nickel anywhere, I'd jump all over them.

So I have one more pack, can I get a familiar name?  Let's see.

Jason Arnott sounds like a name I heard before, but I can't say for sure.  However one name I did instantly recognize was Todd Bertuzzi.  I'm not a big fan of his, but pulling his card made it worth it.  I was worried I would get 20 cards of guys I never heard of. My favorite card though is probably the Mike Fountain card, its a nice shot of him trying to stop the puck, and the shot shows everything it needs to.

Here are the rest of the cards of the pack.  The Frontenacs logo looks similar to the Bruins, not bad.  Overall the cards were worth a dime to me and I had fun opening them, so it was worth it.  After opening these, I might look into the OHL more.  The one thing I will say is its nice to see hockey teams in Canada.  Part of my disgust of the NHL is the migration of so many teams to the south.  San Jose? Phoenix? Dallas? FLORIDA?  I let St. Louis slide since it does get cold and snowy here.  I'll even let Nashville slide too, and while I didn't like the relocation, I'm fine with the Avalanche, but anywhere south is a no go for me.  I was hoping the Coyotes would relocate to Seattle (or Kansas City) as rumored.  Anyways time to stop ranting as I've done that too much lately, and NHL migration is something I complain about too much anyways.

Before I go to the other topic tonight, my friend reminded me of something last night that I forgot about.  I have a bit of a crazy side, and a few years ago, I wanted to invent a sport.  I had two ideas, I would totally watch both, but I doubt either would get off the ground.  The first was a variation of basketball.  The court would be shaped as a triangle and 3 teams would be playing at once. Not much would vary aside from that and likely a faster pace with less fouls and violations called (its not like 3 in the key or traveling are called in the NBA anyways), and free substitutions are allowed (not sure the official name, but think like hockey where you just jump in and the other guy gets out).  I never had a name for it, but I think it would be more exciting.  It would also appeal I think to more of the And 1 type of play or street ball, which would hopefully allow for less of that showing up in the NBA making it (at least to me, more watchable).

The other sport which my friend mentioned last night would be awesome to watch, but due to higher awareness of concussions recently the sport wouldn't be allowed to catch on.  This one combines two current sports.  I call it Tackle Golf.  The basis is simple.  It is Golf, but with the added interest of being tackled.  It seems like Golf takes forever when watching it on TV, and honestly, why watch golf on TV?  This sport would be faster paced.  If you take too much time to putt or shoot, you risk being tackled, and are charged a stroke.  The challenge for the tacklers are you risk being hit with a golf ball or a club.  TALK ABOUT ACTION!!!!  So I guess, it would be more of a team sport, maybe have two golfers on each team (not really better ball play, but each shooting their own ball), and 3 tacklers per team.  5 person teams, with 3 alternatives per team which you can use however.  Whichever team has the fewest strokes at the end of 18 holes wins.

If concussions weren't as closely watched now, I think it would really catch on, but since they are worried about them more (justifiably so), no way it would catch on.  What surprises me though is that in this day and age of all sports being shown, more new sports aren't invented.  Also surprising is something like disc golf isn't shown on TV.  I've never seen it, but if it was on TV I'd try it.

So anyways, lets get back to the other thing mentioned in the title.... music!  I love music, and I have diverse tastes.  I went to Savvy Seconds this afternoon (just because), and found a couple more CD's totaling a buck.  There were others I was interested in, but I passed them up.  However, I think I did okay with what I did get.

MORE OF THE RHYTHM RUSTLERS!  Last time I showed a sealed CD of The Red Hot Rhythm Rustlers, and I guess I didn't see this one.  This one was sealed as well, and its their newest CD I think (I checked them out a bit after I bought the other CD).  This one even won them some awards.  This one has more original music, but I did notice the cover Desperado on here.  It was a dud, but there were a couple good songs on here, and my mom liked it, so it was worth the 50 cents to me.  If I found other CDs of theirs there, I'd likely get them too, but I'm not sure I'd listen a lot.  My mom will likely get more use out of these.

The other CD I got was the only reason I got that CD.  If I find one CD I usually get another just so I can hand over the buck and not get change back.  Usually a couple songs between the albums make the buck worth it.  This time, this CD alone was worth the buck.  Honestly, if this CD was 3 bucks, I would have likely got it.

I won't say I'm the World's biggest fan of Live, but whenever you find a greatest hits CD of a band you like, its a good idea to pick it up.  In all there were maybe 4 of their CD's for sale there, but looking at the track listing, I didn't need the other albums.  Of course people will notice I Alone and Lightning Crashes, but deeper down you notice Turn My Head, The Dolphin's Cry, Heaven, and even a cover of I Walk The Line.  However, when I got home and listened to this, one song came on that I totally forgot about, and that one song was worth the buck I spent for both CD's.  I never knew the name of it but Lakini's Juice started playing and I was like "THAT'S THE SONG!"  This CD came out in 2004, and for some reason in my years of downloading music, I've never got their discography or even their Greatest Hits.  I guess I don't have to now.  Here is the song in question, if you don't remember it, never heard it, or like me, forgot the name.

What a way to start the weekend!  That should wrap up this post, but it won't.  Last night I was checking my favorite wrestling site (shout out to Wrestling Inc.) I go there every day and usually post on there, but last night a story caught my eye and left me in disbelief.  I've known for 20 plus years wrestling is scripted (I didn't say fake, because the hit and chair shots and what all are real).  I also know its a form of entertainment and would never do anything to interfere with a show (aside from telling wrestlers they suck, which got me a mean stare down from Jeff Jarrett once, who I actually liked, but he was the heel).  However not all fans are like me.

Here is a the story, which I had to just shake my head at and read in horror and amazement.

A FULL GROWN ADULT WOMAN NOT ONLY BRANDISHED ONE WEAPON, BUT TWO!  I mean the knife part in some aspect is acceptable, and in the early 80s, wrestlers would have died to be able to say they drew that much heat that someone was willing to intervene.  But Paul Lee, the wrestling veteran he is (says he's wrestled since 1982 or 1992, I never heard of him, but says he competed in WCW), threw a great line at her to draw more heat and essentially make things calmer.  It was a smart move I think on his part, keep playing the heel, get the heel heat, have a story to tell.  However, then she pulled a pistol and holy s***, SHE PULLED A GUN IN FRONT OF A CROWD WITH KIDS IN ATTENDANCE!  That is simply amazing.  Luckily Lee got the gun, and restrained her until police arrived.  I've been to indie wrestling shows, so the lax security is understandable, but how much protection did this woman need? A KNIFE AND A GUN?  I'm not commenting on gun laws and weather she had a permit or not.  At no point should a fan pull a gun on somebody at a wrestling event, that common knowledge 101.  What bothers me the most isn't even all that.  Luckily nobody got hurt, but she bonded out at FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS!!!!!

I think 40,000 would have been light to be honest.  I mean she pulled two weapons out, even if the knife was not meant to inflict harm on anyone, I'm sure weapons were prohibited at the event.  But pulling the pistol out in front of a crowd of ANY size is reason enough for a high bail or no bail.  Especially with kids present.

I found their website, and the event had a wrestling legend there in Paul Orndorff, aka Mr. Wonderful.  Even if security was lax, they really should have had better security at their events.  A couple weeks earlier, they had a plethora of former WWE and WCW stars like Kevin Nash, Teddy Long, Buff Bagwell, and more.  After this event, I could see a lot of wrestlers opting out of these shows.  The other interesting thing though is this was a DVD TAPING!  I'm not sure if they'll be allowed to show this incident on the DVD, but if they could, they should promote this big time.  For no other reason then because you know it would sell out, and with the extra money, they could get better security.  Wrestling is big in the Carolinas and Georgia area, so something like this could elevate their promotion a bit, but if it does they should make sure they take better precautions.  It looks like they will, but since nobody got hurt, I think they should capitalize on it.  It will get them some looks.

About the woman, for her sake, I hope she was drunk, or sadly, had some kind of mental problems.  I'm not saying I want her to have issues per se, but if she was sane and did this, then well, sadly nothing anybody can do to help her will help.

So that will wrap it up for tonight.  This weekend is shaping up to be hot, and because of that I will either be busy working on stuff indoors, or bored out of my mind, so I can't guarantee new blogs, but its possible.  Thanks for reading and have a great weekend.

EDITOR'S NOTE:  I just starting watching the video for the Live song.... I'm not sure what is going on in that video, my focus was on the song itself, not so much the video.  I just picked that video because it was the official Live Vevo page.

Opening Opening Day, and some repacks

Earlier today I tested out the VCR I mentioned I bought at a garage sale this weekend.  It powered up but it didn't let me use the tape deck.  Maybe its the tapes I'm using, or possibly its a conspiracy. I'll try it again some other time as I really want to get some tapes transferred and don't want to buy a new VCR/DVD recorder in the process.  I then remembered I had my sister's old VHS camcorder and figured "hey why not try that?"  Problem was, the battery was dead and it was stuck inside the camcorder.  So as I started to take it apart, she happened to call, and I got her blessing to take it apart.  I only planned to take it apart enough to get the battery out, but it wasn't budging.  Then I found out a tape was still in it.  So in the end it became a recovery operation and I tore the camcorder to shreds, but got the tape out, and finally the battery.  Too bad I have no camcorder for the battery, but at the same time, would I ever use it to record stuff anyways?  I mean I would look foolish lugging a camcorder the size of my head around when most videos seem to be recorded with an IPhone.  When I record stuff anymore, its with my digital camera, and that works good enough.  Though I wouldn't mind a newer camcorder, but again, its not like I do enough to make it a need.  Though once I go bicycling more, I would kinda like a Go Pro.

Anyways, that isn't the point of tonight's blog.  I thought I'd show some recent packs I opened.  I was going to spread it out over a couple days, but what the hey.  I got some more packs to show tomorrow, and can find more stuff for the weekend, so let's take a look.

Opening Day is up first, I bought two packs recently really because they were cheap and 7 cards for a buck isn't bad.  I was really surprised seeing Mrs. Met as I didn't know she had a card and before even reading the back thought about how she was missing for many years.  On the back it even mentioned she was in hiding for many years but returned last year.  I hope she sticks around this time.  I pulled Mr. Met in the Marketside series, so these two will look nice next to each other.

Also in the pack was a Carlos Gomez which was nice, as was the Dee Gordon.  Overall this was a solid pack, and the Mrs. Met card was worth the buck alone to me.

It would take a lot to upstage Mrs. Met.  Did pack two deliver?  Lets see- Kyle Schwarber, Justin Verlander, Joey Votto, Avisail Garcia (in a throwback no less), Raul Mondesi (JR.), and an A-Rod insert?????

HELL YEAH IT DELIVERED!  Obviously I was most excited for the Mondesi and I think it's my first of his, but Verlander and A-Rod fit my PC so that makes it even better.  Plus pulling Schwarber was nice as well.  As well as the Garcia, even though I don't like the White Sox, as I mentioned, the throwback in addition to the jumping catch make it a really good card.  When Jose Iglesias and Joey Votto are your "other cards" in the pack, I think its safe to say it was a good pack.

I've passed on more Opening Day packs recently but just because I didn't have the urge to get them.  If my local convenience store stocks some Archives, I might bite though.

A recent trip to Dollar Tree didn't net a whole lot, but I did pick up three repacks.  I'm not sure why I got them, but I think its because at this point it feels wrong to not get at least one pack each pack I visit.  Plus I fear if customers stop buying that they won't restock.  Anyways, lets see what I got.

Do you smell what the Rock is cooking?  Well, maybe this isn't the right Rock, but out the gate a Time Raines card is a good sign.  Berkman isn't bad either.  Holy Puckett, that's a nice checklist card.  So far this is a good pack.  Not a big Ordonez fan, but this is a nice card, I need to look up the set.  I also like the Topps card of Saul Rivera though I'm not sure if I know who he is. I know Kevin Millwood, and I loved this Tradition set even when it first came out.  If I ever do decide to work on complete sets, this will be towards the top.  Finally is a Jon Matlack card.  This is the third card of this set I pulled, and each time I get happy that I pull it.  I don't know much on Matlack, but I know a guy named Matlack, so this card is even cooler just because of that.

The other cards weren't bad, but nothing to really mention. I got my bucks worth from this pack.

Just on the fact that a 2015 card was the top card, I got this pack.  Nevermind I don't collect Carl Crawford, but it made me feel cozy.  As for the other cards,  I like the Jose Vidro, and don't remember if I ever saw that set before.  I've seen plenty of the Craig Biggio Portrait cards, but they are still nice.  I wouldn't mind if a company decided to make a similar set today.  I forgot all about Wilson Alvarez until I pulled this card, I remember him pitching all the time when I was growing up.

Unlike the previous Fleer Tradition, this one doesn't appeal to me as much, but I still like it to some extent.  1990 Fleer does nothing for me, but its Gary Carter, I had to show it off.  He should be a PC but for some reason I haven't done it yet.  I do have few of his cards.  I have many guys that I have a few cards of but won't commit to making them a PC.  The same can be said for Kerry Wood, not a PC, but I have a couple.  I love this card though, so this one will be added to my collection.  Lastly is Frank White.  I'm not big on 1990 Topps, but the blue borders work really well for the Royals.  I think I have this card, but there is a chance I don't so it was a good pull either way.

Factoring in the Frank White, Gary Carter, and Kerry Wood Cards, this pack was worth a buck to me too.

I didn't realize I scanned the Vidro twice in two packs, but oh well.  I've noticed the repacks have had a lot of repetition lately which has deferred me from buying more.  At any rate, I choice this pack purely on my fandom of the early Florida Marlins jerseys.  Of course I love my Royals, and even sometimes root for the Red Sox, but if I ever were to switch to another team (it won't happen, trust me), I could have seen the Marlins being that team many years ago. Before they got the new park, ugly jerseys and logo, and changed their name.  I really don't know what didn't make me jump on their bandwagon more in the 90's, but I'm glad I didn't.

Anyways, how often do you see a hot pack of Expos?  I already mentioned Jose Vidro, but the Delino DeShields was a nice surprise, and possibly my favorite card of all the repacks was the Big Cat card of Andres Galarraga.  Its a set I don't have, and rarely seen, so it was a great pull.  The Phil Bradley is likely a dupe for my Mizzou collection, but still I am happy whenever I pull them.  I really should try to get a couple signed one day.

I won't ever express my love for Darryl Strawberry (I just never cared for him outside of The Simpsons), but this was a nice pull as well.  For me hating the 1990s Topps set, I sure do like a lot of them.  Lastly is a team card of the Chicago Cubs.  I hadn't seen it before, and doesn't go with anything in my collection, but it still is a nice card.

This pack was worth it just for the Galarraga card, but nice support for the Straw and Bradley.

I can't complain about any of those packs.  So I guess I'll end it there.  I got a couple packs in the mail today thanks to Listia, and I'm about to open them, I hope to post them tomorrow.  Thanks for reading and have a great night.

Pizza's and Listia

Last week I was a little busy working on a few things.  As the weekend approached though I was still a little backed up.  I had a wedding to go to Saturday night, and really didn't have food on Friday, so since I had to go to Walmart anyways, I figured I'd get a Pizza (as did my mom).  It wasn't really because I wanted to get more cards, but hey if I could kill two birds with one stone why not?  I'm about halfway through the set so I figured any cards at this point would be doubles, but if nothing else there is still one more Royal card to get, so I was hoping I could.

How did I fare?

Well, no Royals, but I didn't have the Bumgarner card yet, so one out of three isn't bad.  I also plan to give the Mr. Met to a friend, but I may keep it.  I thought about starting a Frankenset of some sort, and one featuring Mascots could be fun.  I'll decide later.   I can't complain overall about this pack since it did yield one card I needed.  Inching closer to halfway now.  Maybe I should look to Sportlots.

Oh well, one more pack?  Any Royals or cards I needed?

No dice.  No Royals. No cards I needed.  That's not bad since they are newer cards and since I'm sorting cards anyways, a Dodger, Red Sox, or Marlins collector might get these one I start shipping out.

I'm sorry if there isn't much substance to the blog today, I just don't have much to add.  Since its a bit short I figured I'd show a few Listia wins I've gotten recently.  I haven't been on as much because my credits are worth about a buck so its harder to win cheap auctions and I don't plan on adding money, at least for now.

I bid on this auction mainly for the Nunez card.  I don't think I have it, so I figured it was cheap enough to bid.  I'm an idiot though because I updated my have and want lists a couple months ago, but I never look.  Even now I still haven't looked.  I need to as a couple people inquired about some trades so I should do that soon.

The Thurman card I'm 99.9% sure I have.  In fact I'm going to bump that to 100% sure as I've seen it many times.  The Jamie Quirk card, I'm not so sure.  It's likely I did have it as most Score sets are a blur to me and I just pass over them.  I don't think I have too many Quirk cards though, so its worth checking.  In any event, this was the equivalent of like 5 cents or less, so it was worth the risk even if I had all three.

These were three separate auctions, and I'm positive I needed all three.... at least the first two.  The Rusch card looked familiar but I don't have many of the late 90s- mid 2000's so its very likely that I needed it.  If not, oh well.  It's still a nice card.

The Chris Sale card I did look up and I did need it.  I don't want to start bidding on individual cards to work on the 2016 set, but Sale was on a really hot streak when this was up for bid, so since nobody was bidding I tried my luck.  Who knows, his cards may skyrocket and I cold make a fortune.  If not, I'm one less card away from completing series one.

The John Dettmer card looks familiar as well.  However I don't remember if I have this version or the Electric Diamond version.  If I have it, I can give it to my friend.  The reason I collect Dettmer cards is because he went to Mizzou.  For the most part, I have a good majority of his cards, so from now on I better check and see what else I need.

So I guess that wraps it up for today, not too much to offer, but at least I finally scanned some cards.  I was going to rant about the Royals today, but I decided not to.  Its for the best.  It doesn't mean I won't down the road, but for now, I decided to cool off first.

Thanks for reading, and have a great night.

Ain't You Slick

When your favorite team is on a losing streak, you look for anything you can to stay positive. This is the second  extended losing streak the Royals have had this year.  It happens, and sure, they have a lot of younger guys filling in for injured players, but it does suck.  On the bright side, it does feel like 2011 when a new crop of talent rose to the majors and as a result a couple years later helped in making the team a contender.  This year Kansas City has asked for help from Cheslor Cuthbert, Brett Eibner (who also got injured), and Whit Merrifield.  The team has been up and down this year, but maybe the team can start notching wins soon and make another playoff run.  I'm not too worried yet, but the longer the funk, the more of a chance the other AL Central teams have of running away with the division.

So to stay positive, I'm going to blog about a yearly charity event that the Royals host along with some celebrities who happen to be Royals fans.  The Big Slick Celebrity Weekend was born in 2010 with the idea of hosting a poker tournament with the proceeds going to Children's Mercy Hospital.  The celebrities were Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, and Jason Sudeikis.  They planned it in a few short weeks, and asked friends, family, and celebs to contribute or donate.  It was a success, and each year it has grown.

Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis

In the years since, Big Slick has expanded to include bowling, as well as a celebrity softball game held prior to a Royals game.  It has also expanded to include two more Royals celebrity fans- Eric Stonestreet and David Koechner.

David Koechner, Eric Stonestreet, Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis

The guest list of celebrity alums is long, so instead of listing them, how about a screen shot from their website:

HOLY CRAP that is a good list.  Sure not all of them are Royals fans, but they all understand its for a good cause.  Sure most single out the bigger names like Jon Hamm, Will Ferrell, Kevin Pollack, and George Wendt.... and WEIRD AL????

Those are great names, and I remember the first Big Slick KC with the originals 3 along with Will Ferrell in the Royals dugout doing commentary on Fox Sports KC, but the names that stand out to me are the ones people may not instantly recognize.  Names like Hilarie Burton (One Tree Hill), Joe Lo Truglio (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), Richard Kind (almost every TV show ever), Martin Starr (he's always Napplebee to me, he was in a movie called Cheats), Josh Charles (Sports Night).... oh and George Wendt and Kevin Pollack!

Every year I want to go, but never do.  One year I might, but it won't be this year.  The festivities are June 17-18th this year.  Besides the main five, some of the guests have been announced.  Among them are Kevin Pollack (he has that poker bug), Olivia Wilde (that isn't a shock since she's engaged to Sudeikis), James Van Der Beek (holy s**t its the Dawson), Judy Greer (not sure who that is), Kevin Rahm (him either, I'm not as hip to pop culture as I used to be), and Aisha Tyler (I do know her, she's on The Talk, and was in Bedtime Stories, as well as Friends).  More will be announced soon I'm sure.

Selena Gomez and Chris Daughtry

Chris Daughtry has also said he's going to be there as well.  Above he's pictured with Selena Gomez who was a surprise guest last year.  I was really surprised when I saw she was there, but it was really cool.

Besides raising money for Children's Mercy, which they raised over $1 Millions last year alone, the celebrities also visit the hospital.  I think that is the best part about it.  Its east for these celebs to raise money and give it, but to take the time and visit these children is extra special.  I think that makes someone such as Selena Gomez popping up last year that much greater.  I'm sure the kids knew most of the celebrities, but getting someone closer to their age that they probably listen to a lot is great.

Hilarie Burton, Paul Rudd

The above photo is probably my favorite one.  Sure its easy to pick out since I have a thing for Hilarie Burton, and seen most of Paul Rudd's movies (if I ever meet him I'm going to ask him about the movie Overnight Delivery, I liked it).  The thing is though is that this photo epitomizes the reason they are holding this event.  Burton and Rudd are so into this young child's story that you can tell they aren't half assing it knowing a photographer is taking a shot (at least Burton, Rudd sometimes has the vibe to him, but he looks interested).  I'm sure most of these celebs if they remember anything about the weekend, they remember the time spent at the hospital the most.  It's possible that's the reason a lot of them return each year.  The children probably will never forget it either.  Even if they don't know all the celebs, just knowing they are interested in them and their struggles I'm sure brightens their day.

NORM!  Oops, I mean George Wendt

Some of the celebrities I'm sure don't have much to do, or have open schedules, others I bet pencil in the dates so they can return.  George Wendt is a regular, and it could be because he's available or he loves visiting the hospital.  However, Wendt is Jason Sudeikis' uncle, so I'm sure that is a big part of it.  Kevin Pollak comes just about every year because of the poker tournament.  It's no secret he's a poker fanatic, so if you plan a celebrity event and want him to show, just mention Poker and I'm sure he'll attend if his schedule allows. 

Martin Starr, Selena Gomez, Eric Stonestreet, Hilarie Burton

I have to be honest, I only included the above photo because I wanted one of the celebs wearing Royals jerseys, and Selena Gomez looks hot as hell in a Royals uniform.  On the second night, they have an auction and they usually auction off some pretty sweet prizes.  In the past they've had many that were studio visits to shows like Modern Family, Parks and Rec, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Saturday Night Live.  Also movie premieres like Ant-Man, Horrible Bosses 2, Angry Birds, Anchorman 2, and We're The Millers.  That doesn't include the sports packages like to Kansas Jayhawks games and Chiefs games.  Also each year is usually a Man Cave package.

The First Year of Big Slick KC with Riggle, Rudd, Sudeikis, and Will Ferrell.  C'MON CHEN!

 Ticket packages to the event this year is sold out, but you can still get tickets to the Royals game which is where the celeb softball game is held.  $5 of every ticket sold through a special link on the Royals page goes to Children's Mercy as well.  All in all I think it would be an awesome experience to attend and like I said, I hope to go one day.

If you want to know more about the event or the history, check out their website at: http://bigslickkc.org/

That will wrap it up for me tonight, thanks to my sister for giving me an idea of something to blog.  I was stuck since I didn't have anything scanned.  I hope to scan some stuff tomorrow and start posting stuff soon.  I made a lot of headway sorting cards today so that will help cleaning out some cards soon. Just a little bit more to do now.  Thanks for reading and have a great night.

Garage Sales Galore

Or according to the sheet I picked up, 16.  Yes, my little town of roughly 800 had their town wide sales this weekend.  If the timestamp of 9:15 AM is any indication on the Saturday morning, I think its safe to say I went bust of finding deals.  However I went out both days and found a few items.  A neighbor is having one and despite going back once already, I might go once more since there is a chair I was eyeing.

Before I show my haul, I want to mention that COMC is having a Spring Cleaning sale up until Sunday night.  A lot of cards are on sale and if you get 20 cards or more, shipping is free.  I'm not plugging them as an endorsement, I just wanted to mention it since its one of the few times free shipping comes into play.  I already have about 30 cards to get shipped so when I finish here, I'll do one last look and ship them.

Okay onto the loot.  Let me begin with an item not photographed as I just bought it today and didn't want to lug it around town (I forgot to mention, I walked to all these sales).  I found a VCR and promptly bought it without any assurance that it worked.  I still don't know if it works since I dropped it off at my storage unit so I can pick up later.  While it may have been a risky bet, I think a quarter was fair, and even if it doesn't work, I get to tear a machine up, so that alone is worth a quarter.

So what DID I get?  Let's see.

Who couldn't use a baseball bat ink pen?  Well besides finding out once I got home it didn't work but still?  I got it because obviously it was related to baseball, but also because of what it was advertising.

The Columbia Daily Tribune is a local newspaper and being a fan of newspapers, it was a double cool item.  I had no real intention of using it as I have plenty of pens, so I need to figure out where to display it.  Maybe it will fit in the hands of bobblehead Jose Reyes I showed a few days ago.  Hmm...  I'll try that later.

This is a T-shirt the I remember from the late 90's I think.  I never owned one, but I always liked it.  I was a fan of maps growing up (yes, I was a dork, but I was a dork who knew directions).  The shirt won't fit me but I had an idea of making a pillow or something of it.  I almost passed it up, but decided if it had the town shown on this shirt, I would get it.  Sure enough, my town is listed.  In fact it is in this very picture.  A lot of small towns are on this too so it wasn't real surprising.  I think Fortuna has like 5 people in the town, so it made it.  The town of Olean is having their big festival today as we speak.  Its been going on for 20 years, though I've never gone.  It's the Olean Testical Festival.  I'm serious Google it.  Then maybe delete your browser history so people don't think you're some sort of freak.

"NOW WILL YOU LISTEN TO ME?"  Seriously, how was I going to pass up a Ross Perot campaign button?  I don't dive into politics much on here, but only because I liked this button will I mention it here.  If I was old enough to vote in 1992, who knows, maybe I would have voted for Perot, but he was the last serious 3rd Party candidate and I think that's something lacking in today's politics.  Not going into this years election, but finding campaign buttons of almost anybody if the price was right, I'd likely bite.

I'm not much of a fan of Cable News (though CNN has done great lately with the 80's documentary and the White House ones from previous elections), but this button I liked.  I already stopped at this sale earlier and found another button I liked, but it was sold the second time I stopped, so these are still nice.  They are also in great shape to, I doubt they have been worn but maybe once, so they are almost pristine.

This next item may have people scratching their heads, and that's fine, but its another reason I might go back to the sale.

The neighbor is having a moving sale (according to the flyer with the sales listed), and her husband ran the local grocery store for it seemed like forever.  Honestly now that I think about it, this order book could be one of the first ones he had.  I think he bought the store in the 60s and ran it into the early 2000's.  After he sold it, the successors couldn't keep up and it closed a short time later.  A second attempt at a store fizzled a year or two ago as well.  That leaves the town with no store, which sucks.

So what was prices in the 60s?  Here is a brief look.  It shows the items in a case, the case price, the suggested retail price, and the profit per case (by percentage).  It is fun to look at how the prices changed from then to now and also how much markup store did.  There were a few more in the same condition as this and maybe the same year, so I don't know if I need more, but it is fun to look through.  I only wish the stores name was on the front as well, but oh well.

At this point, all these items came from one sale.  There is one more item I bought, and the total for all these items were $3.  The last item said 50 cents, so these items above cost $2.50.  I guess thats a fair deal, but once I got home and looked up this last item, I knew I hit a home run... no wonder I'm Home Run Phil on twitter.

Star Wars?  Eh, not the biggest fan, but I did finally watch the original three.  My mom actually spotted this (the real reason I went a second time), and I figured why not.  At worst I could give it to a friend.  At best, maybe I could hit the mother lode on eBay. Once I got home and looked it up, I could sell this and it would cover everything I bought the last two days and then some.  Sure I'm not rich, but this was a small victory.

The box looks to be in really good shap.  Not ripping and very minimal pressure on the bottom of the box.  Only blemishes are the price tag and a couple pieces of Scotch tape on the side to prevent it from spilling out.

Not the best photo, but the board looks to be in really good shape as well.  The game looks confusing as hell, and it didn't have instructions, so I don't know how to play it.  I did notice a seller saying he found and printed instructions with one he was selling, so maybe I'll do that.

I didn't count them but it looks like all the cards and pieces are there as well and again, in really nice shape.  You can't see them but the plastic pieces I presume to hold the players up are on the right.

I think a seller said like 54 or so cards were originally included, so if I do decide to sell this, I will count them to make sure.  Not bad cards for a 1970's game, a lot of graphics and details on it.

I mean that detail is amazing.  If I knew how to play the game, these cards alone would make me want to play.

The spinner was included as well and in pretty good shape.  In fact the only thing in less than great shape was the box that holds the game pieces had one side starting to come apart.  I has no logos on it, its just a cardboard box so it could be replaced, but its still useful.

So I think 3 bucks for all that was well worth it.

Part of the problems with the sales this weekend was sporadic heavy downpours kind of soiled the mood so it prevented a lot of people showing up and I think some sellers not putting as much out.  I hope next year they are better, however in Mid-Missouri alone there were 6 other towns having city wide sales this weekend, so it did seem like a losing battle.  If I have a chance next year, I might hit some of the other towns, then check these out later.

After the few sales I hit yesterday, I had to make a trip to Walmart for a couple things and in the process went to Savvy Seconds.  At the urge of some readers, I ended up buying the Liz Phair CD.

The price was 50 cents, and I think I remembered one song on it, so why not.  Here is the track listing.

I believe I've heard Supernova before and likely others.  I haven't listened much, but might give it a try this week.

When I buy one CD I usually buy another just to make it an even buck.  This time I went for an unknown to me group just based on their name.

The Red Hot Rhythm Rustlers are not a band I knew before buying this still sealed CD.  That might have been a warning.  I looked at the back and noticed a couple of the songs, so 50 cents was a risk I decided to take.

Well.... here's the track listing.

I noticed Route 66, but another one not listed here was "Seven Spanish Angels".  I mean it would take something catastrophic to ruin that song.  Which they managed to do.  However the top part of the album wasn't too bad.  It had a Johnny Cash vibe to me, but despite being labeled Country-Western, if felt more like lounge-country type of music.  The song I liked the most was an original song called The Bronze Buckaroo.

Was it worth 50 cents? Sure, I found a couple songs, so that made it worth it.

So overall not too bad of items, but I was hoping for a bit more.  Oh well, I have a storage unit full of stuff to sort and an apartment that is pretty full as it is, its not like I needed more.

Thanks for reading, and you may have noticed I'm working on my Missouri History Blog.  I'm testing out things on there before I do a redesign on here in a couple months.  I figured since that site is a little inactive I could test it out, then start posting on there again.  So be on the look out for new posts on there soon.  As for this one, I'm not sure on the design yet, but have other ideas.  I'll hope to have it done by Labor Day and have spent the past week checking things out.  As for now, I better go, I have a wedding to get ready for and still deciding on one more garage sale trip.  Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Revisting My Goals

So on January 1st of this year I made a post of goals for 2016.  I figured today I would revisit and see where I'm at.  I know the halfway mark is next month, but this gives me time to work on the ones I haven't done yet.

So let's take a look.

The one I figured would be easiest I haven't started yet.  I could still do this soon but might hold off a bit.  I'm talking about a Top 25 Most Wanted cards.  I might cut it down to 10 also.  The amazing thing is if I made this list in January like I figured, the top card on the list I've actually attained a month ago.  I can't say what just yet, as it hasn't arrived, but when it comes, I'll blog about it.  My list will consist of some that will cost a bit but mostly cards I want to finish team sets or Mizzou guys I haven't got yet.  I think I can make this goal within the next 7 months though.

Write More Blogs than 2015- I started out on pace to tie or maybe pass it, but had a lull earlier this year which involved other things, dental issues and moving.  It set me way back, but if I still write at least on average of every other day, I should get this one done.  The next two months will be crucial and much like Mark McGwire's home run race, if I can't stay on pace by September 1st, I don't think I can reach it.  I won't stop though if I can't reach it, but realistically I think this could be a long shot.

Complete My Want Lists and Organize All My Royals Cards-  This was my big goal for the year.  If I only got this one done, than nothing else mattered.  Persistence paid off and I accomplished this goal early on. Having said that, I have added more Royals cards to my collection and need to add them and update my lists, but less than 50 cards will be easier to complete than close to 3000.  THIS WAS A SUCCESS!

Begin Organizing My Mizzou Collection-  This was one I'd only work on if I finished my Royals cards.  Luckily, I can say I FINISHED organizing my Mizzou collection.  At least adding them back to the database.  My next job will be seeking out what cards I want to add.  Since I'm not trying to get every card of every Mizzou athlete ever, this could take a while.  However, it isn't something that's attached to this goal.  So I can say- THIS WAS A SUCCESS!

Attend A Card Show-  This as I stated on January 1st, was a 50/50 shot.  I still haven't attended a show this year, but I have a few coming up that I might be able to attend, so I still have a chance of making it.  If I can't I'm not too worried about it, I'll push this to next years goal.  I didn't expect to finish all these goals this year.  I think my next chance at a card show is mid June, and then in August.  I think August is the better chance, so we'll see how things go.

Get Rid Of Some Cards And Make Some Trades-  I could cop out and say I gave some cards to a friend and I completed this, but I'm not.  I haven't done this yet, and I still have trades to make up for, but I am working on it.  As you may have read, I have all my cards in one spot now, and just got some card boxes, so now I need to sort the cards and then I can start sending some out.  I've accomplished more in the last two weeks than I have in the last couple years on this front, so even if I can't get this done this year, I am making some good progress.  I hope to send some out though because I could use the room.

Complete 5 Royals Team Sets- This one I haven't touched yet.  In fact once I got the Royals cards all sorted and made want lists for them, I haven't really touched them. That said, I think I can still get this done this year.  A couple people recently got in touch with me about some Royals cards, so if I get to sorting what I have that should help me reach this goal.  I can also go the Just Commons and COMC route as well as going to my LCS which I still need to do.  Either way, I think this can be done if I focus.

Finish the Monsters of the Gridiron and Simpsons Sets-  When I made this a goal, realistically I didn't expect to get it done.   My focus this year was going to be on sports cards and Royals and Mizzou.  However on my birthday my best friend got me a unopened pack of the Gridiron set, so that took care of that without even trying.  I wanted to finish it myself, so at this point I have the pack still sealed and want to finish building a set I can look at.  It still counts as finishing the set though, so got that done.

The Simpsons set I admitted would likely take something like finding the set on eBay to finish.  I was close.  I actually found a set on Listia and got it at a good price, so just like that, both sets are done.  I even managed another non-sport set in Dick Tracy without much effort.  So I can say without a doubt- THIS WAS A SUCCESS!

Work On The Transformers and Daredevil Sets-  I can say that working on them would be adding a card of each to both sets.  After I posted these goals in January, I never looked for either. The Transformers I have a good start on so maybe I can find a Pick-em auction one eBay and add a few. As for the Daredevil set, I'd love to get lucky and find a cheap complete set, but I don't see too many (maybe because I never look).  I have exactly 0 of these cards so far, so finding a single card would be a much bigger victory than it should be.  By the end of the year its possible to finding a card of each, but honestly I doubt I look too hard.

Try To Get 5 New Teams From Missouri Cards-  Before I say anything, this could be tough.  I first need to sort all my cards related to Missouri first and go from there.  Then I need to decide if having cards in other collections count for that team.  Example being I have some Roger Wehrli cards in my Mizzou collection where he is wearing St. Louis Cardinals football gear.  Should I count it for both collections or keep it in Mizzou and find another Cardinals card?  That's something I'll have to decide. As for now most of the teams I can think of off the top of my head is represented so once I sort them, then I can see what I need.  I can't remember if I added it this year or last, but I do have a St. Louis Browns baseball card, so that was one I can cross off.  This will be a tough one to finish though to be honest.  College teams are included, but again I need to decide how I make them count.  Do I need logos or them wearing college uniforms to count?  If so, then I'm likely screwed on a lot of the smaller colleges.  A couple of the Leaf or Press Pass or whatever the college sets were included no logos but mention schools like Lindenwood, so I may have to make exceptions.  At the end of the day, I'll decide and hopefully the year won't be over and I can add some.



So out of the 10 goals I set for the year, I can say 3 are finished already, and I think I have a shot at possibly 3 more if not more.  I will take that as I figured 3 would be my benchmark for the whole year.  I also admit that the goals post really was more of an "out of ideas" post more than anything.... Hmm, come to think of it, so was this, but oh well.

The next 7 months will be interesting and if somehow I can accomplish all these goals by the end of the year, I'm not sure I can make any more goals after that.  Maybe its a good idea to not worry about it so much.

Well, with that, I guess I'll wrap it up.  I think I could spend a couple hours sorting more cards.  More than likely I'll go to eBay and look for some more cards.  Who knows, maybe I can find a good deal on a Ben Affleck Daredevil card.  Thanks for reading, and have a great night.