tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87309665405567164532024-03-05T21:07:10.827-08:00Storm WatchFor every comic book fan and every comic book artist and writer. ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.comBlogger181125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-72338426477575341632020-02-09T22:20:00.001-08:002020-02-09T22:20:20.035-08:00Wanted: More Time<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I mean really though, don't we all feel this way at this day and age? Remember when we used to be able to have read every book we owned or heard each CD we bought once or twice. Maybe it's content overload or just being easily distracted, I would say it is quite possibly both. I know for sure though that given all the things I am doing these days I am finding myself looking for more time to do it all. I am all ears on any advice on the topic though, so please let me know how I can manage or tips and tricks to handle it all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Though I will be the first to admit, I am a consumer. And that probably needs to stop, and only I can truly take care of that situation. But sometimes you try to do something while listening to a podcasts and it gets really good and you stop to pay attention. Does that ever happen to any of you? And what about reading, I want to read more but the only time I get is on my way to work and sometimes I sketch or if I am really drained I will play some video games on my PSP, currently playing Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection. Though I think I am going to leave it behind this week, kind of force myself to read even more. I am trying to do 52 books by the end of the year, so will see how I do. I think making a list here will keep me honest and I can share my progress...or lack there of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It probably doesn't help being surrounded by thousands and thousands of Magic cards. I tell you, it is one of the worst and best games ever made. If you have never played, don't start. If you do play it...is it the best?! (I am the human Paradox Engine)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The things I need to do though, for context:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Wake up everyday at 6:30 AM to get started on the day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Make sure my room is clean and tidy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Make sure the rest of the house is clean and tidy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Posts content on different social media feeds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Eat right and on schedule.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Stay fresh and cleaned up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Go to work, I have to leave with roughly two hours for the commute.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Work for roughly nine hours, sometimes more or sometimes less.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Back home on the two hour commute.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Get home, eat some dinner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">-Go to bed at a decent hour and do it all again until the weekend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Which the weekend can be anything, I don't ever really know what to expect, but I try to do as many things as I possibly can, see people I want to see or perhaps go out for dinner or something. But looking at this now, I can see why I feel short changed for time. Hmm? Well I am going to have to change this up, some way some how.</span><br />
<br />ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-38918447033297273342020-01-29T21:25:00.000-08:002020-01-29T21:25:05.858-08:00Thoughts on a Train: Self<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Who are you? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It is such a simple yet complex question when you really think
about it. And this separates champions and challengers, the champions
are the ones who walked into the labyrinth of self and emerged
victorious. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But perhaps also there are challengers who stepped in and got lost. Still lost and trying to find the answers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was thinking about this last night, identity. Are we who we think
we are or the sum of others? What happens when those two are different
answer; maybe you aren’t as kind as you think you are or maybe you
dislike social interactions and you come off as cold.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But how would you define yourself? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I want to know what is my core and rewire myself to be better. I
think that has always been a staple in my own narrative, to be better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My art has to be better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Physically I need to be better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Mentally. Educated. Manners. Rituals. I have to be better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Is this the evolution of self loathing or just a mask? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But what do you think friends? I would love to hear some thoughts
and takes on this dilemma. I am going to continue to work hard each day
to improve in every way I can.</span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.285985499999995 -80.028631299999986 44.0204665 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-15867394393895190032020-01-16T21:30:00.001-08:002020-01-16T21:30:34.156-08:00Stop Running...<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">What are you running from?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Who are you running from? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Is this considered running or hiding? Does it even matter? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Just thinking out loud. Figured I needed to get back into writing and this is the only way that makes any sense to me. But bare in mind, nothing really ever makes sense, not in my head. I am getting annoyed at myself, a lot more so these days than usual. The idea machine, that is what I have become and it is absolutely useless because I haven't been able to take any action on my ideas. I keep making more and more and more; but with no execution. And that is on me. I could blame the world around me, the systems that look to control our actions and behaviors more and more each day or I can just be honest, look at myself in the mirror. I did this by not doing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Am I distracted? Disjointed? Derailed? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I don't know for sure, I actually think the answer is all three. But also the solution is right here as well. I need to write more, I need to write everyday. Easier said than done, I know this because I have tried and failed. But I owe this to my good friend and brother, Jake. Man comes to visit from BC and completely fixes my computer tower back to life. Poor old thing was on the brink of death and was way overdue for an update. I have no excuses now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I need to do this now, now more than ever. This week at work I have come to terms with aging, my back is starting to give out. I am going to do my best to stay in shape, take care of posture and most importantly make the most of my time. I have to be better at this. My job is a physical job with heavy lifting that I can't do for more than a year or two. I want to pursue my goals and my own ambitions, it is all that matters. And so I need to remind myself every day and night what I am meant to do, prove it to myself. I have no excuses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I want to bring my characters, my stories, my worlds to life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">That is all that is left. I don't know what else I am on this planet for if not bringing my vision to life. And maybe this will all be in vain and fall on deaf ears, but I won't know unless I try. And fail. And try again. And fail. And try again. Again. And again. Until I can't hold a pencil or type a word out, on my deaths bed. No excuses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">If I can do it my dear friend, so can you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Can you help me stay sharp? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Thank you.</span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Etobicoke, Toronto, ON, Canada43.6204946 -79.513198343.4367341 -79.8359218 43.8042551 -79.1904748tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-22041783233628465182019-04-28T22:36:00.001-07:002019-04-28T22:41:49.981-07:00The 100<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It’s minutes to midnight on a Sunday and I am on my way back home from shooting the latest episode of my challenge series with my brother, Toby. The idea is we just try to do something new every week, and it can be really anything from making clothes to eating the hottest wings in the city or even blind baking as we did tonight. And this is going to sound strange but I am not doing this for you or the views, mostly I am doing this because I want to have memories and moments I can look back at and enjoy. Don’t get me wrong though, if we entertain along the way and we get a crowd, that would be a nice bonus on the rewarding process of this series in general. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My goal is get to 100 different videos. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZydkzaDVsSVEKMyMlrCQ53b_5U_9RAUzi-s1clHZP4BlqAkip7ZbqXlZhwXAEyjjtiOXZ9Wxfnqfp8oW94niY0HjlmubMfmfc8RnxkZt6_r1mFQwnu4ZElyRGR74jxrhi1bWbDq5YrLQ/s1600/70629B47-A1ED-4C34-9C31-326A70CEA9B2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZydkzaDVsSVEKMyMlrCQ53b_5U_9RAUzi-s1clHZP4BlqAkip7ZbqXlZhwXAEyjjtiOXZ9Wxfnqfp8oW94niY0HjlmubMfmfc8RnxkZt6_r1mFQwnu4ZElyRGR74jxrhi1bWbDq5YrLQ/s320/70629B47-A1ED-4C34-9C31-326A70CEA9B2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I mean wouldn’t that be something to look back on, 100 different challenges completed. And it’s not impossible, it’s hard and can be a challenge but certainly not impossible. A big reason to attempt this is because I want you to make and upload 100 videos, maybe cooking or baking or even walks in the park or coffee shops around your city. I want you to look and see how amazing your life is and to share that experience with others. There are a billion stories being told everyday, each unique and just as special as the next. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I better wrap this up, I am back on the grind tomorrow morning! I just want to wish the best kind of energy for everyone starting the week, go get your goals and do the best work you can! I got Free Comic Book Day coming up this weekend in Orangeville and the RAW artist show on the 23rd & 24th this month. Thank you so much for the read and I hope to see you soon, until then keep chasing the storm!</span></span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-44594578695940657002019-02-13T23:00:00.002-08:002019-02-13T23:00:49.808-08:001:49 AMTen minutes to 2:00 AM...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUbMK1JmuzLxShgWhNH_2Sf6nappJOlEB6WWf3XsLTg4H7BT-1EAC0d-LkIgVQ2rDG_3jjXrVRwrzhREBwcPt4Q7zhnBy02bwVcVlQ8nGyNZLv1iGe0-dXnyX_HKgj7yuK2ZCC3gQWsA/s1600/CHERRY+BOMB.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUbMK1JmuzLxShgWhNH_2Sf6nappJOlEB6WWf3XsLTg4H7BT-1EAC0d-LkIgVQ2rDG_3jjXrVRwrzhREBwcPt4Q7zhnBy02bwVcVlQ8nGyNZLv1iGe0-dXnyX_HKgj7yuK2ZCC3gQWsA/s320/CHERRY+BOMB.png" width="320" /></a>February 14th, Valentine's Day, go figure.<br />
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Listening to Tyler, The Creator's 2015 album Cherry Bomb. F*****G YOUNG.<br />
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So here I am trying to set up my new website over on Wix, and just coming to terms with how little I actually know, but that's why we learn. I have to figure this stuff out fast though, I need to start creating some products and artwork to actually sell and such. But also get the site going and looking as nice as I can, it will be my online portfolio after all, especially if I am trying to look for work and such.<br />
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PERFECT feat. Kali Uchis.<br />
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I have a lot of work ahead of me, and the worst thought is I am not going to see a dime from it until I finish and put it all out there. Don't know how long I am going to be able to the part timer work, the boredom is sin and it bugs me being away from the things I want to like practice my artwork, improve or learn a new skill and applying it to my own work. F**k this system.<br />
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SMUCKERS feat Kanye West & Lil Wayne.<br />
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This will all make sense in the end.ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.2856095 -80.028631299999986 44.020842499999993 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-77178281450869022732018-09-06T09:32:00.001-07:002018-09-06T09:32:57.239-07:00Another Storm...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can try and try again a hundred times, you only quit once.</span><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibybjbEuPH8N_iE7xtv60qHgVpZ1CJXirEFZJ9s46mtbdSjpNrQ9iV0VeLLD6j7axuBIYmdcYBtqhejiaQvajVaJTX6q3k2qS2eAQFKgEtO2OxcJERYVKDKkOcdKltLY8BknRUSoqOHTQ/s1600/Me+Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibybjbEuPH8N_iE7xtv60qHgVpZ1CJXirEFZJ9s46mtbdSjpNrQ9iV0VeLLD6j7axuBIYmdcYBtqhejiaQvajVaJTX6q3k2qS2eAQFKgEtO2OxcJERYVKDKkOcdKltLY8BknRUSoqOHTQ/s320/Me+Santiago.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And with that said, I am back at it and writing again. How is it going internet? It's been awhile for sure but here we are again, trying to keep y'all up to date with all my ins and outs that are happening in my little slice of life on this planet. I think I will try to update more, but keep my posts a little bit shorter than some of my previous posts on this page. I want to be doing more and more in terms of art and comic books, so I will try to be posting here more often. There are also a ton of different comic book content that I would love to share with you, friends creating and some looking for funding on projects and they all deserve your attention and love. So let's help these creators out and make these dreams into reality! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On my part, I am back in school this semester but I am also working away on my pages for Brewgatory. This has been an extremely big and ambitious project for me and I am learning just how much work is involved with making your own story and bringing it to life. But you know, I am so happy to be perusing this goal and there is nothing I want more than to make this comic book happen. I know it has taken me sometime and I thank you for those who have been anticipating this project, means the world to me, so thank you so much! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also I want to take this opportunity to talk about the awesome weekend that was Fan Expo 2018! Always great to see friends and colleagues in the Toronto comic book scene, so much talent and so much creativity! I am happy to be a part of it, truly a blessing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Thank you so much storm clouds, will be keeping in touch. Until then, keep chasing the Storm. ;) </span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.2856095 -80.028631299999986 44.020842499999993 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-83318557179334481732017-08-01T19:34:00.002-07:002017-08-01T19:34:34.793-07:00Artificial Sunlight...<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So I want to write an update on my mental health, which I feel is important to do on a day to day or at least a week to week basis. Trust me on this, doing a blog or a vlog to stay in check with yourself is one of the many ways to stay on top. I look at my own demons, my own depression, as a constant and never ending fight, I feel like it's something that will never "go away" so I am not going to bother with that idea. That being said I will constantly do my best to beat this and control it, not let it control me and dictate my head space. So I just wanted to talk a few points, for you friends and for future me if I ever get lost.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So I guess the first thing to talk about is the passing of Linkin Park's front man Chester Bennington. I think a lot of us can relate when I say that LP was our language when we were teens, and granted my music choices have changed over the years and I didn't really hear a lot of their new albums and projects in recent years. But when I tell you Hybrid Theory, Meteora, Reanimation and slightly even though my big brother, Fern swears that it was the worst thing ever, Minutes to Midnight. His death is absolutely tragic, especially considering the family and loved ones he leaves behind, and the many of us who grew up with his voice as ours. Yeah, it was angst but when you are a teen, your confused, pissed and lost in the worst kind of way. I hope Chester finds peace and love in the next world. To everyone one of us who has dealt with suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety or any kind of mental health troubles; now as always we need to take care of one and other, fight as one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So if I had to make a suggestions on the best Linkin Park songs, I would say to check out this Spotify playlist I made just for the occasion, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/chileanstorm/playlist/1G5qVIxIM7ePUcnASxL24Q" target="_blank">here</a>. My personal favourite might be Numb. I always felt a certain pressure growing up to live up to expectations from my old man that I felt I could never do, feeling like a disappointment most of the times. I know now, that what my dad wants most from me is to be a hard working and honest man, everything else is second to that. And yeah, every single day I do my best to be the best me I can be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">These days have been weird for me, work is there but lately been feeling underwhelmed, if that makes sense. I just want more, the hours this summer have been abysmal at best, so I am in desperate need of more hours and money. But just more from my day to day job as well. Some say I need to be patient, I am still in school for this very reason, to get a degree and get a better job. But I still feel like I can do better. I don't want to seem ungrateful for my current job at Starbucks, the company does a lot of good for it's employees, but I think I just need more. So I think as soon as I get back I will be looking into another part time job, split the time between the jobs and by the new year part ways with the company. I will always remember the experience, and Brewgatory will be there for me to tell many and many of not only my stories but the the stories of the many incredible people I've had the chance to work with. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Well that's all the time for today, I have to save my thoughts for tomorrow as well. I've also been meaning to try and update my Magic: The Gathering blog, but I find it rather difficult to place thoughts into words when comes to MTG, hell I have a hard time finalising a lot of my Commander decks, how I am going to write about them? But I want to hear back from you reader, what are your favourite Linkin Park tracks? How are you doing these days? Leave a comment below and let's start a conversation here. Thanks again for the read and until then, keep chasing the storm! </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.2856095 -80.028631299999986 44.020842499999993 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-59405485568885162682017-07-30T20:23:00.001-07:002018-08-13T07:14:45.350-07:00Back to the South...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A lot can come and go in a decade. Presidents and parties change power in a country, sports dynasty are made and conquered and technology can look radically different from the start to the finish of these ten years. So needless to say, it's going to be quite the experience when I return to Chile for a few weeks this August. It's been over ten years since I last set foot in South America, and I know I have a lot of reconnecting to do. I am a born Canadian, but I am also a Chilean at heart. My culture and my history is rooted deeply to Chile and all my family there, my last grandparents and my massive expansive Cruz side of the family. I will only have two weeks to make the most of the time there and take back home the knowledge and power that comes with being a Latino in North America. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am feeling pretty damn nervous though, not to mention thinking about all the things and projects I am currently working on and trying my best to finish as soon as possible. Not to mention, being away from work is going to place a dent in my wallet, so there is also that to be worried about. A vacation is nice, but it's hard to forget about all the responsibilities that need to be taken care of back home. Lately I find it hard to focus on today, always thinking about tomorrow and the future. I know as soon as I get back from Chile I am going to be focusing on a few goals...</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Finding more or new work.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Working out every single day.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Finishing up every single art project.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Take care of the ChileanStorm brand.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Getting ready for my trip to Japan.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I want to post these here, mostly for me to see them and to be held accountable if I f*ck this up and lose my place on the path in life. I am also placing this here to show you that I have my goals and you have yours as well, and you can do everything you set yourself out to do. If you need support and encouragement, know that I am rooting for you. It's not going to be easy, actually it's going to be extremely difficult. But if I can do it, so can you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So I am off to get ready for my Chile trip, I will be planning different locations that I am going to want to see while I am there, although I think I will mostly be in Santiago for most of the time. But if you've got any suggestion for where to go and what to see, by all means let me know in the comments below. As well as what are your goals in the future, what challenges will you be facing? Just want to let you know, you are not alone in this adventure. We can do this! Until then, keep chasing the Storm! </span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.2856095 -80.028631299999986 44.020842499999993 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-26321160824177115432017-06-07T20:16:00.000-07:002017-06-07T20:16:47.578-07:00Be Alive...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello Friends, today is a pretty simple topic, being alive and being happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What a thought eh? But why is this such a big deal to me? Well I think it mostly comes from the fact that a lot of my ideas tend to have a dark undertone of sorts, And I think sometimes, especially with my own history, it's important to look at life and reflect on everything you have going for you. I get caught up at times with everything that I don't have, and yeah, I get into a slump about things. But the reality is, I've got a lot going on these days and a lot to look forward to as well. School has been a great learning experience for me, work has been good as well although I am thinking of looking for new opportunities. I have the ability to go as far as I want to go with my creativity and my craft, and I plan to go as far as possible and beyond. I don't want to become ruled by my fears, doubts and insecurities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've got a lot ahead of me these next weeks as I aim to complete 22 pages of my very own first independent comic book, Brewgatory! It's exciting and fun project, but it's a lot of work! For anyone who has ever tackled this, I am in awe of your power! And for those who are thinking about doing one, by all means go for it, just know that it is a dedication, you can't half ass this one. I am missing out on a lot of social gatherings and outings, but I know this is the only thing that makes any sense to me, there's nothing more important for me. And when you find your passion, you have to go all in. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am still waiting to hear back from a certain comic book convention that takes place at the end of the summer, but here is hoping I can get a spot on the floor. This would be the first time on my own at a show, but with the experiences I've had with my friends and brothers in the comic book art scene I aim to take everything I've learned and make my mark in this business. I am not the prettiest, not the flashiest, but God damn it I plan to be a part of this world! Come hell or high water, I am going to be a comic book artist! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So to you mt dear friend, if you are living with depression or anxiety or any mental health problems, take it from me. You are not your mental health, it is a part of you but it is not what defines you. And even though some days it is harder than others, fight, fight with everything you've got and create something incredible. I know you can do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Until then, keep chasing the Storm. </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-34914797109471795632017-04-25T09:02:00.001-07:002017-04-25T09:02:03.505-07:00It's All in my Head...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello friends,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think I had a mental collapse last night. I don't do well with accusations or with hatred, I always take someone else's hatred personally. Why? I don't know. It gets to me though and I sink into darkness, it doesn't help being alone or having your family tell you these wonderful little gems...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"You don't have depression, get over it."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"Grow up."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"Your too old to have depression."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you are reading this, please, never deny help to a friend or a family member. Mental health is real, just cause your parents or their parents didn't come to term with their own mental health problems, doesn't mean it doesn't exist. And don't tell someone that nothing is wrong with them, you don't know and so you shouldn't say anything. Listen and reach out to help however you can, don't make them feel alone. I know one thing for sure, I need to get more help and see my therapist as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really hope to be stronger, maybe tomorrow or maybe a month from now or possibly a decade from now, but I just want to be a mentally stronger person. I think I can get there through my work, reaching out to others in the world and trying to change the way we see things. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Thank you friends, thank you for everything you've done for me. And for you, I will be better and I will be stronger. </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-21123155890872216482017-02-14T21:52:00.001-08:002017-02-14T21:52:12.332-08:00The Thing About Love...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Well it is here, one of the most dreaded holidays, I would even say possibly the most dreaded holiday celebrated here in North America. It is Valentine's Day. A day built on expectations. What you need to do if you are with someone and how you should feel if you are alone. But that is the thing about expectations, you don't need them. I wanted to write to you today, because I know what you might be going through if you are indeed alone this time of year, what you might be feeling. And if I can help you feel just a little bit less lonely, well it would help me out as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This year, by societies standards, I am alone. But here is the thing, while I might be on my own today, I know I am loved and I have been loved. And that is something no one can take away from me and they sure as hell can't take it from you. I have some incredible people in my life, I am truly blessed, just on my last post friends wanted to make sure I was alright and let me know they are there for me. I also have an incredible family that while is scattered through out the world in South America, Asia and here in Canada, I know they love me and are always making sure to stay in touch. It would be stupid and ungrateful of me if I didn't recognise all the love in my life, and I know it is hard at times but you need to see and feel all the love around you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's also important to understand the importance of self. In this life you need to be the best you that you can be if you want to share your life with someone, mentally and physically. If I have learned anything from relationships, it's not about doing everything you can so you can stay together. I do mean that you should be the best partner you can be for your loved one, of course, but I think it's about being strong enough in your life with or without that someone by your side. It's never easy to say goodbye or to let a beautiful union go, but the love that was there is something that will always be there. I've been really lucky in my life, I've had some really incredible relationships with some incredible girls, who have grown to be even greater women. And I am really happy to see them living a life filled with joy and surrounded by love as well. And I will be the first to say, nothing makes me happier than seeing my friends and family find true love with an awesome partner, I am a sucker for true love. It's the Disney princess part of my mind for sure, but it's a part of me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Do I want to find true love? Well, I've already found it. What I need to find now is a peace of mind, I need to find the man that I am going to be and what I am going to for the world of tomorrow, what role will I play? Because take it from me, you are not a pawn in this game. So aim for the throne, become a queen or be the loyal knight. Whatever you choose to be, go forward with love inside your heart. Thanks for reading friends, until then keep chasing the storm. <3 </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-36618698663865440832017-02-12T18:40:00.001-08:002017-02-12T18:40:04.680-08:00Depression, my monkey...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's been awhile since I've written one of these. Especially one that I completely break down all my walls and express myself for a few paragraphs. I hope you get the chance to read this, that would be nice and maybe you get to feel better from this as well, maybe this can help you. Lord knows I could use some help right about now. That is always the hardest part really, getting help. I think it's our nature to associate help with weakness. A lot of times I know I would use alcohol, drugs and especially sex as a form of help. But honestly, I think sometimes it makes it worst. When you don't have the vice of choice, you start to lose your mind even more and more. It's a dark path, and one that I can't go down on again. I am not okay and yes, I need help.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The worst part of all this is really it is my fault for not taking care of my mind in 2016, I didn't seek any professional help in the entire year. And I've been away from a lot of friends and my family, I've felt pretty isolated in a place I decided to move out to, the price of independence and all. I wasn't healthy enough to start a relationship with another person, I sure as hell wasn't ready for when it all came to an end. I am not okay, I am a sick depressed individual who needs to be loved, feel loved and feel wanted. I am not comfortable with my own solitude, and ironically I spend most of my time alone and disconnected. I am doing my best as anyone with depression knows to make face, at work and in public. I don't want to worry my family and friends, at the same time I don't think anyone really understands. And this is part of the sickness, because I am very well aware of all my friends who are fighting their own mental health battles, anxiety and depression and many others. Some are braver than me and post online and make videos talking about it, I don't think I am important enough to do that. Until now that is, I am writing this and trying to reach out to someone, to something. I am not posting this on Facebook though, I haven't logged on in over a month and I don't want to log back in, because f*ck does it hurt to see happy people, beautiful people, perfect people. I can't do it, it hurts way too much.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But if you want to share this, by all means. If it is something you feel strongly about and think others should read, well kudos and thanks. I think if we can talk about this, it would be great. If you feel like this and wanted someone to talk to, I want to be there for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am gonna use this blog to talk to you more, about me and well everything that is wrong with me. I am going seek help, I am going to take care of myself and focus on being the best me I can be. It's not going to be easy, everyday I wake up will be a victory and it should be for you as well. I know I am the only overly emotional f*cker with depression, I am just sharing my story and you should share yours as well. Because we don't hear this too often, but I want to hear your story. I want to know how you are doing and what do you do to stay out of the deep waters of mental health. So expect many more of these kind of posts, I will keep you in touch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Until then my friends, keep chasing the storm.</span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-33833516267718104552016-12-02T21:25:00.001-08:002016-12-03T08:06:56.651-08:00Mail Magic #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I've got a bunch of cards to look through thanks to plenty of trades. If you don't know what I do here, by all means check out my first post on <a href="http://chileanstorm.blogspot.ca/2016/11/mail-magic-1.html" target="_blank">Mail Magic</a>, but I share with you guys all my recent cards acquired through Puca Trade. I take a look at some strategies with these cards as well or reasons on why I wanted a specific card. With that said let's get going!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Spelltwine (Jace vs Vraska):</b> Something you should know about the way I play Magic, I love me some spells! The game typically wants to create a more creature versus creature battleground, but I am a classic Wizard kind of guy and love to casts all sorts of spells. So yeah, I am a Blue/Red Planeswalker all over and Spelltwine is an absolutely wonderful spell for many reasons. Not only do you get to reuse any spell in your graveyard, you can casts any spell from your one of your opponents graveyard. So if you want to use a board wipe from a the White mage, you can do that and play that Blue spells that gives you a turn or two. You can play your opponents spells against them and bring back another one of yours, two spells for the price of one. Sign me up! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is a Blue Commander staple in my books, if you have Blue in your deck then you should really consider a Spelltwine. Great for Mizzix, Melek, Talrand, Yidris and Riku of Two Reflections! Hell in this trade alone I got four sent to me, and I plan on using one in each and every single Blue deck I play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Yisan, the Wanderer Bard (M15):</b> A sort of banned Commander depending on your play group, I had no idea he had already many decks that made him go sideways. I figured Green players were playing mostly Ezuri Elves or Titania Lands decks. I got him because his ability got me curious to try and build something around him, But since he can't be the Commander doesn't mean he can't be an incredible force in a lot of decks as part of the 99. Any Simic based Proliferate decks can totally abuse his ability for sure. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Oh, and Atraxa. Yah. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Serra Avatar (Commander 2014):</b> A classic powerhouse, I remember when I first was playing MTG and my brother showed me this card for his UW Control deck. I couldn't believe it, this was at worst a 15/15 creature a lot of the times, but since it was in White you could gain as much life as you wanted or add a Spirit Link for absolute insanity. And over the years a lot of crazy big creatures have come and gone, you forget some cards after awhile. But as you guys know I've got Brion Stoutarm deck, a WR deck with an Equipment sub theme. So you can image my reaction to the idea of throwing a 40/40 Serra Avatar at one of my opponents, I had to get this monster in my deck. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But Serra Avatar works really well in a lot of other Commander strategies like Trostani, Selesnya's Voice or Ayli, Eternal Pilgrim.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Temple of Abandon (Theros):</b> Kids, something you are going to learn in Magic is that dual lands are important in every single format you play, the ability to play the game depends on the mana. If you can't play it, you aren't gonna win a lot of games. So take it from me, take what you can get in terms of dual lands, especially in Commander. The Theros block had a collection of lands that while they do come into play tapped, add two colors and let you Scry 1 when they hit the board, which lets you fix your next draw, a small scry goes a long way especially in colors that don't have as much card drawing power as Blue or Black.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The "Temple" cycle is a pretty underrated set in my opinion, I would recommend this for a lot of players on a budget. I got three alone from this trade and I have all the combinations on my trade list, you can can't go wrong with a little mana fixing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Chandra, Pyromaster (M15):</b> So I wanted to take a little longer look here at this Chandra. By no means the best Chandra available but I think there is a lot more to her if we take a closer look. Off the bat, all Planeswalkers are extremely powerful cards, even Tibalt can be used to some effect. At worst they take attention off you and some possibly strategies you are trying to brew. They can give you a slight edge every turn, drawing a card or even untap a permanent per turn can go a long way. So let's take a look at Pyromasters abilities here...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>+1: Chandra, Pyromaster deals 1 damage to target player and 1 damage to up to one target creature that player controls. That creature can't block this turn.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So this ability is really good if you pair it with creatures you need to get through to your opponents, especially if the board has limited blockers available, playing Red you should be burning and removing any opposition in your way. You can even combined this with Gruul or Vampire cards that have the Bloodthrist ability, all it takes is one damage to make it trigger. I really like this ability in creature based strategies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>0: Exile the top card of your library. You may play it this turn.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So this ability is a sudo card draw of sorts, you have to try and control the situation as best as possible. You can know and be ready if you had a Scry lined up, maybe from a Temple land perhaps. This ability also works really well in Rakdos Hellbent strategies, the card is technically not in your hand. You don't gain any loyalty from using the ability which is a bit of a drawback but when you need a last resort answer, Chandra can do that for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>-7: Exile the top ten cards of your library. Choose an instant or sorcery card exiled this way and copy it three times. You may cast the copies without paying their mana costs.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Yes. So you remember at the top of the post, I was saying how much I love spells, this is the ultimate ability that Izzet Mages dream of! The possibilities are endless, you could take six turns with a Time Stretch or steal three creatures with a Bribery. Or even casts a Spelltwine three times for a potential of six spells from the graves! So many possibilities! Though some things to keep in mind, if you don't have a lot of spells, you could end up with nothing to show and that would be a big bag of not fun. I would say make sure you trust your deck to have the spells ready for the onslaught.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So one think to see here in her design, she fits a lot of different strategies, which is a good and bad thing. When you are a jack of all trades, you are a master of none. While her ultimate is great for spell based decks, can you take advantage of her +1 at all, spell deck creatures are support or defensive cards for the most part. Though I don't doubt players finding a deck that is perfect for her, I worry that her better designed incarnations will find more playtime in various different strategies. But if you got big dreams for spells, I highly encourage the Pyromaster in your decks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So there you have it, a new batch of cards from trades and ready to be used in my Commander decks. What do you guys think of these cards, do you use any of these in your decks? Any strategies you want to share, by all means leave a comment below or you can reach me over on Twitter @ChileanStorm and on Instagram as well. And also a big thanks goes to fellow trader <a href="https://pucatrade.com/profiles/about/95032" target="_blank">CRONUS TITAN</a> for these awesome cards. If you are interested in joining Puca Trade as well and maybe trade some cards with yours truly, you can join <a href="https://pucatrade.com/invite/gift/160964" target="_blank">here</a> and start your trades. Until then guys, I got more cards to look at and maybe a Commander deck tech in mind as well, until then keep chasing the storm! </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-89628853126330572782016-11-29T11:37:00.001-08:002016-11-29T11:37:40.292-08:00I Am Retro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think one day, we will all get to a point in our lives where everything we love will in one way or another become, retro. That is of course the nice way of saying old, the problem with old we associate to fragile, weak and ultimately death. But if Pokemon is the proof of anything it is that some old things never truly die. And now I am at that point in my life, I feel like I am looking back on any memories I can muster, and oddly enough scatter through my fandoms are precious memories of my younger years. I can tell you my first issue of Daredevil I ever bought in a dollar bin or the first Nintendo 64 game that me and my brother purchased on Boxing Day. It seems like a small moment in the massive ocean that is the galaxy of our own existence, but every tiny cell matters. And I think I am getting way better with my memory and if that is thanks to these kind of moments, I am not going to take that for granted at all. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This past weekend, I turned 30. Welcome to retro,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wanted to take the time to say thank you, to everyone who made not only this weekend an incredible time but to everyone who was there for me in some way or another. The truth is I wouldn't be who I am without all of you who have touched my life in some way or another.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To my family, everyone in Canada and Chile, you have all always been with me. To my mother, my greatest hero, the strongest person I know. A women who defined herself through love, compassion and kindness. If I can be half of what you are today, I know I've lived a good life. To my father, I missed you so much and these years getting to know each other have been absolutely wonderful. I hope to share more memories with you soon. To my sister, thank you for inspiring my creative mind from a young age, you are so damn talented and creative, you don't need anyone to approve of your talents. Keep creating beautiful art sis. To my brother, you know how much love you, I hated being away from you when we were kids and some days it's hard being oceans apart. But the fact is you have gone where you said you wanted to go, spoken the language you were never meant to speak. Nothing is impossible for you Fernando, and I wish I can show you what I am capable of as well. To my Grandparents as well in Chile, the humble little farm of Maipo, that safe place from my childhood. I know my Grandmother is always thinking about us, having all of us in her prayers and keeping us safe. To my Grandfather, such a kind and strong man, my role model growing up. I will be coming back to see you guys soon. To my uncles and aunts, cousins and nephews as well, I love you guys and not a day goes by where I don't think about you guys as well. And as well to family friends and partners to my parents, thank you for everything you have done for me, I wish I was a better kid some days but I am going to make sure I am a better man today. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dream come true...</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Caitlin, my beautiful girlfriend. It's only been a year but it has been a wonderful year together, one that I will never forget. You are such a strong and independent women, as smart as you are absolutely talented at all the things you do from dance to guitar and songwriting. You inspire me every single day, to do as much as I can and more every single day. A kind spirit who knows how to love every single creature on this planet. And quick thank you to all the wonderful people I got to meet this year through you, family and friends who confirm to me all the incredible things that you are. And a big thank you to Bella Mae, yes she is a dog but doesn't make her love and energy any less. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Bella, my "Woof Muffin".</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My friends, my wonderful incredible strange family. From different times and places, all of you who keep me in your hearts, I can't thank you enough and you haven't seen the best of what I can do yet, so keep watching. But I did want to mention a few names for sure as well, those who have stayed close to me over these years. My roommate and brother, Toby. You are the best dude, the Rocket to my Groot or the Flounder to my Ariel. You've had to endure a lot of my silliness over the years but at the end of the day you've got a big heart inside. You are going to do some great things in this life, you hardworking little dude. To my big brothers, Aaron and Vince and as well as many incredible artist that I have the privilege to call friends; Paul, Kev, Shane, Hugh, Dave, etc. There is a lot but you guys know who you are and you know I love y'all. I wouldn't be half the artist that I am today if it wasn't for your guidance and friendship. Seeing my fellow artist create everyday keeps me inspired as well and makes me want to create more and more. To my fellow brothers, George, Drew and Steve. You guys are the absolute best, it's been an incredible journey so far and I can't wait to see where we all go from here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Yes there are many of you in my life and even if I didn't mention you personally, know that I love you and everything you've done for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So yes, this is a big thank you blog, but if I have learned anything in my life it is that we need to be thankful for all of life's little moments and the beautiful people who make the world what it is today. I have seen my fare share of things in my life so far, and yet so little, this world is waiting to be explored. And so I just want to close with a last thank you to you, the reader. I hope you enjoyed this and past posts as well and keep coming back. Until then, keep chasing the storm.</span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-39494697684644893862016-11-21T11:48:00.000-08:002016-11-21T11:48:16.217-08:00Mail Magic #1<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So as you may or may not know, I love me some Magic:The Gathering. A trading card game I've been playing ever since the Pokemon trading game wasn't filling the void anymore and a very special pass time activity to me, mainly based on how much my big brothers and friends love to play the game as well. So I've recently joined up on Puca Trade, a card trading site which let's you trade cards for points which then other traders use and send you cards you've been looking for, straight to your front door. Nothing makes a bad day great like opening an FNM promo card or that rare card from the set you never got a chance to play. I've been doing this for a little while now, and I think it's a really cool and great system. And sure there have been complaints, but it mostly comes from people who are looking for "value" or something to that degree. Honestly the way I see it, if I have a bunch of cards from Kamigawa and you need them, I will send them. If you've got cards from Shards of Alara, send them this way. That's all there is to it. Not arguing about dual lands for 2 hours and not making a trade at the end, send your cards to players who want them, why not? Anyways, I thought it would be cool to share with my Storm Clouds all the different cards I received and explain why I was looking for these cards, also looking into some strategy in casual formats like Commander and Cube. With that said, let's get started! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Immolating Glare (Game Day Promo):</b> This is the full art promo for Oath of the Gatewatch release day tournaments. This is the one you get for participating in the tournament, which I never got a chance to do. So getting this sweet looking uncommon is just too sweet! An amazing art of an Eldrazi getting destroyed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The card itself is fine overall, for two mana (1W) you can destroy an attacking creature. Great in any format, particularly in the early game since most early attacks won't have the ability to regenerate or even counter the spell. Not really great late game if you are facing Hexproof or Indestructible monsters coming your way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I use this in my current Boros Commander deck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Priest of Norn (Mirrodin Bisiege):</b> At a glance a 1/4 Vigilance creature for three mana (2W) doesn't look like much. Does anyone remember Standing Troops? But add a little bit of Phyrexia in the form of Infect and you got one hell of a creature now. With Infect you can casually attack for one in the early game before really big creatures come down. You force your opponent to turn their 3/3 or 2/2 creatures into 2/2 or 1/1 or even have them killed off. The alternative is taking a Poison counter and then start counting to ten until game over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Infect is an extremely powerful effect in any and every format it is available in and I didn't get a lot of these cards in general, I've got a lot of these Infect cards on my trade list. Going to see if I can work on an Infect deck of sorts for Commander. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Fuel for the Cause (Mirrodin Bisiege): </b>When you are paying four mana (2UU) for a Counterspell, it better have a good effect or can tip. Proliferate is a very good effect to have on a card. Especially in decks that use a lot of Planeswalkers, Infect, Energy, Experience or +1/+1 counters as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've got one of these in my Simic Commander deck, but I needed one for Mizzix deck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Treasure Mage (Mirrodin Bisiege):</b> This card works really well in any Artifact combo strategy. For three mana (2U) you get a 2/2 creature that searches your library for your big bad machines, any artifact card with converted mana cost 6 or greater. And you can par this up with a Show and Tell or even a Sneak Attack. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You really can't go wrong with Treasure Mage, just be ready to cause some damage as soon as you play him. Watch out for discard and countering cards.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Unsubstantiate (Game Day Promo):</b> Another full art promo card, this time from the recent trip to Innistrad in Eldritch Moon. What we get is an extremely versatile spell for two mana (1U), which is perfectly paired with Isochron Sceptre. You can choose to return any spell or creature to it's owner's hand. Perhaps the best counter card in Standard at the moment, this card can do so much. It can disrupt early and throw an opponents tempo off and in a pinch it can get rid of a big attacker or blocker that is in your way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Very cool art as well, as with all of the full art promo cards. I am probably going to try and have one of these in all my Blue decks in Commander and Cube as well. I love me some <u>U</u>nsubstantiate!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Incorrigible Youths (Game Day Promo):</b> The last of the three full art promo cards I received in this trade, this one is from Shadows Over Innistrad set. A 4/3 Vampire that can be played for three mana (2R Madness costs) and with Haste, meaning it can attack right away for some early damage. Pretty good. You'll need to be playing with some discard mechanics and/or other Vampires to really get the most out of them, but even in a Cube deck it can do great damage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A solid addition to any BR Vampire deck strategy for sure, in Standard or Commander. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Into the Core (Mirrodin Bisiege):</b> I honestly didn't even know this card existed, now sure Shatterstorm destroy all artifacts in play and this only targets two, the big difference is in the exile effect. I find in Commanders a lot of permanents and spells have plenty of ways of coming back into the game. Not to mention indestructible effects on a lot of artifacts and you are going to need some strong answers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">At instant speed as well, you can respond to two darksteel artifacts coming your way. You can take away mana sources or combo pieces, maybe even that Darksteel Foundry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think I am going to place it in one of my Commander decks for sure, possibly Mizzix or Brion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Brass Squire (Mirrodin Bisiege):</b> And speaking of Brion! In my current Boros deck, I use a lot of Equipment cards. It's one of the strategies of the deck, a lot of WR cards that benefit from Equipment. And Brass Squire helps the team out a lot, for three Colorless mana you get 1/3 who is able to tap and attach any Equipment you control to any of your creatures. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This works really well in my kind of deck with all the different Equipment cards and seeing how a lot of creatures will be launched by Brion, Brass Squire helps get the next creature ready for action. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A pretty low key card, highly suggest it for Equipment based decks. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Hedron Archive (Battle for Zendikar):</b> I am going to say this now for every Commander player. Get your Archives now, don't wait until they are gone. I got 4 more copies in this trade and I value you these artifacts very high. For 4 Colorless mana, you get a mana rock that gives you 2 extra Colorless or can be ditch for two cards. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What deck couldn't use a mana boost or some emergency card drawing? Every single deck needs one of these and that's why I wanted to get them now, before they surge in price. Although I wouldn't be surprised to find them in future Commander products.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>•Phyrexian Juggernaut (Mirrodin Bisiege): </b>Holy butts! A 5/5 Infect creature for 6 Colorless mana. Sign me up. The attack every turn if able drawback isn't a big deal at all, you know being 5/5 and having Infect. You can pump this guy up, place Rancor on him or any Equipment you have available and it gets more vicious. Even a 10/10 creature blocking it will be brought all the way down to a 5/5 size, which is brutal! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Going in my Brion deck for sure, I can't wait to play this against my opponents. It's a wild Phyrexian bull on the loose and no one is safe! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So there you have it, a whole lot of Game Day promos and plenty of cards from Mirrodin Bisiege, it's nice to get cards from sets you didn't play too much or at all. Which I find is the beauty of Puca Trade, highly suggest you guys check it out <a href="https://pucatrade.com/invite/gift/160964" target="_blank">here</a> and big thanks to trader <a href="https://pucatrade.com/profiles/about/41830" target="_blank">ASGARDIAN</a> for sending me these cards in the first place, I am going to make sure these cards find a good home in my decks! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So what do you guys think, any of these cards caught your attention? Any strategy suggestions you have? Let me know in the comments below or you can reach me over on Twitter @ChileanStorm on Instagram and Tumblr as well. Thanks again guys, and as always keep chasing the Storm!</span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-41378293140180420612016-11-09T15:50:00.001-08:002016-11-09T15:50:18.896-08:00The Elephant in the Room<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Well I would feel almost silly trying to write about anything, seeing as I really wanted to do a post on Nintendo 64 and other such things that don't carry that much weight in the big scheme of things. And everyone is trying to make sense of things this morning and I was wrestling with this issue for hours last night, I really need to get my thoughts out there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So last night the people of United States of America elected as president, Donald Trump.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Is this the end of days, the beginning of the zombie apocalypse or something catastrophic as such. Honestly, it could very well be. But it could be fearful speculation as well, 4 years from now we could still be here and ready for change. Or we could be 4 years into a yearly Purge celebration. I don't know, you don't know, no one really knows for sure. We may not know what is in store for the USA or the world for that matter, but you know what we do know, our actions. I know that as soon as I am done writing this post, I am going to shower and make some dinner, take out the recycling in the kitchen, I am going to text my girlfriend and tell her how much I love her, I am going to record a podcast with my roommate, I am going to sketch, I am going to go to bed and sleep to be ready for the next day. What I am trying to say here is that we are in control of our actions and how they affect the world around us, regardless of who sits at the top of the political mountain. I have a choice to be kind, compassionate and caring. And just as so, I have a choice to be rude, selfish and close minded. You my dear reader choose the path you walk and the world you create. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So yes, Trump is president. That doesn't stop you from being someone who raises awareness of the causes that need light, that helps when help is needed, that works towards a better future every single day. You know what you need to fight for, so stand up and fight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That being said, if things go South all the way straight to hell, you are going to have to fight with everything you've got. And if Trump voters think having him in the White House is a free pass for homophobia, sexist remarks, xenophobia or kind or disgusting behaviour, you couldn't be more incorrect. If you are looking to be seen as the amazing unique snowflake that you think you are, go out and do something with your life. Don't be mad when people get together to raise awareness or fight an injustice in today's world. Everyone has the right to speech, no one has the right to be a human pile of shit. And yes that does mean ignoring women rights, that means not seeing Black Lives Matters as a principal issue, that means not being aware or considerate of sexual orientations and gender pronouns. And if this sounds like too much to do then consider this, it's about opening your world up. Learning about others and how the world is growing and changing everyday. Adapt and evolve, step outside. Hell, I think if we did become more aware of all our different concerns and needs, we could probably joke about it more with new friends. Are people pretty sensitive now in days? Yes, but only because nothing is being done to connect the world together, we use insults and hate to destroy any kind of progress we've made. If someone gets offended, they are allowed to be offended. It's not your job to defend your actions, apologise and get to know them better, you'll make a new friend or two instead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So to you, I say this; reach out and help someone who needs help. Stand up and fight for everything that makes us incredible. If you can talk to one stranger on the other side of track, you will see that we are all on the same train that is this life. Let's have a fun beautiful ride together. Keep chasing the Storm.</span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-11629959257228797352016-11-06T07:14:00.001-08:002016-11-06T07:14:55.330-08:00Giveaway Ideas<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hey guys, Stormy here and I wanted to give y'all a heads up here on my giving away project that I was working on. Okay, so here is the deal. I've got a lot of things on the table to give away, a lot of comic books and DVD's and even a few CD's...if you kids want them. And knowing that many people will want them, I need to figure out how to spread the joy. Now you may or may not know, I've had a few tables at a few different comic book conventions and you may have noticed that I haven't been on the scene for sometime now. Well I am telling you this here and I am telling you this now, the ChileanStorm is coming back!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But what about that free stuff? Well here is the thing, you want some free stuff then you've got to come by my table and say hi, and I will have a box of free things there for everyone. I might have a little bin for loonies if you want to grab more stuff. I want to try to have everyone at least get one item, but if you see stuff you really really want, by all means let me know and you can take it home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So there you have it, now you know to come check out my little art table for some free stuff and who knows maybe some new art prints or a cool new fresh comic from yours truly. I will let you know here where and when my next shows will be, so be sure to check out the page often and stay update with me over on my Twitter, @ChileanStorm and also on Instagram and Tumblr. Until then, keep chasing the Storm! </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-78916201042128384702016-10-27T20:37:00.001-07:002016-10-27T20:37:05.566-07:00BLOG 4 YOU<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Okay people, I've got the blog bug.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I've got a lot on my minds and a lot of ideas and I want to write them out, I want to share and talk about all the things that we love. So I wanted to ask you, yes you. What do you want me to write about? What should we talk about? Now this could be just about anything and everything, video games we love or even political issues that need to be addressed, because that is important as well. Be happy, but also be aware of the world around you. Do we want to look at and review some more comics? With me thinning out my collection, I would be looking at the best comics in my collection and some great new comic books from independent creators that you need to be reading. And trust me you, there are plenty of books I would love to recommend. I also wanted to talk Magic: The Gathering with all of you, I want to share my Commander decks, Cube ideas, Puca Trades or anything else that comes to mind about our favourite trading card game. And speaking of games, do you want to talk video games? I've been on a big retro gaming trip, especially Nintendo 64 and the original PlayStation. Basically anything is on the table, I just want to know what you want to read.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also I wanted to use this space to talk and promote other people who are doing some great work and need to be seen. I know a lot of people who are working really hard and deserve to get a lot of attention and views. And if you know someone or are someone who wants to promote new work, by all means let me know. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So there you have it Storm Clouds, I need your help and suggestions! Leave a comment below, on Facebook or contact me on Twitter @ChileanStorm or even an email, I want to hear from you. Also it should be noted as well that me and my bestie, Toby Medeiros (@TeaEmComics) are working on a very cool new project...keep your ears open. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Until then, keep chasing the Storm. </span><br />
<br />ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-91274714993169528722016-10-26T21:53:00.001-07:002016-10-26T21:53:50.273-07:00Too Much<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not my room but I am almost there...</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you are a young one reading this and as an almost 30 year old, I can assume that half my audience here are under the age of 25. Or maybe I've got the older scholar crowd reading here, and if so I say good morning to you ladies and gentlemen. I am writing this tonight, almost as a warning. I cater to a "nerdy" or "geeky" crowd here, I know this. The one thing to take away from being a geek and you can let me know how you feel about this, pretty much every single fanboy and fangirl has a massive collection of stuff. And this could be just about anything and everything; video games, comic books, toys, clothes, dvd, trading cards, socks, etc. You know you do, just look at your room. What do you see? A collection of something collecting dust no doubt. Hey, don't worry I am with you in this situation. Do I really need a DVD copy of WWE Battleground from 2014, probably not but there it is under many more DVD's and Blu-Ray's that I may or may not need. And don't get me started on Magic: The Gathering cards, holy mana burn Batman! I've got cards all over my room, on my bed and computer desks. And yes, I am trying to organise all of these cards and trying to collect all the extra cards to give them off to a store or a new player who can use them. The same is true for my comic book collection, I am trying to see which comics I can part with and which ones I'll keep because they mean something to me. I can tell you this, anything by Skottie Young will stay with me and everything with Daredevil and/or Scarecrow. Also anything done by fellow artist friends, having independent work is extremely inspiring and helps me focus on the big picture. And I will admit to having a lot of markers, pencils and sketchbooks as well. I collect a lot and I don't know why. I do get a lot of hand me downs, which is nice but I think it's time for me to give away a lot of my stuff to anyone who can get something good out my old treasures. And hey, a good comic can turn a bad day right around, that's why we read them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I am going to start posting a list of items that I am looking to get rid of, not sell, giving away to a good home. But I do urge you to really think about picking up free things from me, make sure you've got the space for it. The last thing I want to do is just dump my leftovers on someone because they wanted free things. Share, just share everything with everyone. At the end of the day, you will be remembered for your actions not your stamp collection. All power to you though if you are rocking that stamp collection in 2016, you do you and keep it going. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also for MTG Players, I am sending away a lot of my collection through Puca Trade. If you are a trader through that site, let me know what you need and if you want bulk collections of commons and uncommon cards, I would be glad to send them your way. If you want to join Puca Trade and make some trades with me, you can join here: https://pucatrade.com/invite/gift/160964</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So stay tuned for plenty of free stuff and giveaways, because I am cool like that. Or maybe I am getting older and letting go, maybe both. Be sure to follow here on this page or @ChileanStorm on Twitter and Instagram, leave questions or comments below and as always, keep chasing the Storm. </span><br />
<br />ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-12131462680984939142016-09-21T01:00:00.000-07:002016-09-20T18:29:29.071-07:00Youth Impact Summit<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So big news to share with everyone, tomorrow and Thursday I will taking part of the Youth Impact Summit. What is that you may ask, well let me tell you; a collection of young minds from across the province coming together to brainstorm, hear, talk about ideas to change communities. And yours truly applied a few times in the past and now I have the opportunity to take part of this big game changing opportunity. For a few years I've wanted to see what I could do to help out those who need help, be that volunteering at charity events or donate clothing or food. And now I can learn how to take that energy to the next level, and I am super excited for this experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">For those reading for the first time, welcome! My name is Alvaro Cruz, or as I go by on most forms of social media, ChileanStorm. I was born in Toronto, but my family history hails from Chile, so I like to represent for Chile and all of Latin America, very proud of my roots and culture. I am an artist who is currently back in school and working part time as a barista. At the end of the day, I still need to pay my bills. I am currently working on a few personal projects like the Glass Prison and currently working on my first comic book, Brewgatory. My goal is to have a comic ready for summer 2017.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In this page here you will find a lot of entries on comic books that I've read and few opinion pieces as well. In the future entries I will probably talk more about things on my mind, the most important Nicolas Cage films and Nintendo 64 games. So if you like any of these things or just want a fun read, by all means give me a read and a follow and be sure to drop a comment if you'd like as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Keep chasing the storm. </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-55049131177727401622016-09-20T11:04:00.002-07:002016-09-20T11:04:29.853-07:00Try Hard Die Hard <span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am just going to open up with saying that Bruce Willis will not be the topic of today's blog. Although I think we can all agree that the first three Die Hard films were pretty awesome action movies, worth watching if you haven't seen them yet. No, today I wanted to ask you to think about this, what does winning mean to you? And I am asking on every possible level, how badly do you need to be the very best...like no one ever was. And yes, that was a Pokemon reference. But I want to talk today about our desire to win, to be champions and to be the best at everything. And I think most geeks experience this on a daily basis. How many achievements do you have? Did you catch them all? Did you win that tournament? What rank are you? What level is your team? But you get the idea. We aren't allowed to enjoy things anymore. No, we have to win. I guess I want to understand the theory of the carrot, why does it have to be involved with everything we do now in days...? </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Take it from me, time is short. Every day we only have so many hours to do whatever it is we want to do and well everything that we need to do as well, be that work or school or family. And then consider all the things you do because you want to do them, like playing your favorite online computer game or going to the local card shop for a game of Commander Magic. When you are done, are you satisfied at all? Well you should be, win or lose. But holy dead Jason Todd to we have people that really want to win and completely ruin the experience. Maybe this is me realizing that family, friends, partner and career are much more important than a weekly Friday Night Magic result or trying to collect every single Pokemon. I am not going to be a League of Legends champion anytime soon, and that is totally awesome. I think what I am trying to say here is, let's try to enjoy the experience. If we all try to be champions, this world is going to be filled with a whole lot of salt and resentments. Who cares about completing every single game achievement on your Xbox One, will you be awarded a purple heart and have a parade? Probably not. All these imaginary brass rings are presented to distract you from the bigger picture, that is you, What are you going to be in this world? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That being said, if you truly feel and know that your goal is to be a champion in some video game or card game, all power to you. I mean Adam Copeland (WWE`s Edge) always wanted to be a WWE Champion and he did it. You focus on your goals, you give everything you have and you become the person that you know you are. But if like me you are an artist or a writer or anyone who isn`t making a living off gaming tournaments, try this and just don`t give a f*ck. Enjoy the time off and the hobby itself. Aim to win, but aim to have a great time and remember why you love whatever it is you love. It`s okay to lose, just don`t lose human dignity in your climb to the top of the mountain. I have seen Rock Paper Scissors tournaments, don`t mess with them tossers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Keep chasing the storm. </span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.285985499999995 -80.028631299999986 44.0204665 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-36308336165787728712016-01-11T17:00:00.000-08:002016-01-11T17:36:05.751-08:00That Force Though...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Can we talk about Star Wars? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It has been enough time, I have seen three times already and ready for more viewings. But I think we have all seen it enough times that we can talk about it, the 7th movie in the legendary sci-fi saga. Because it has been years since we have been this excited about the Wars, especially after the less than stellar prequels. Now we got a movie that feels just right, a movie that fits in with the original three movies from years ago. And by no means was The Force Awakens a perfect movie, but when has any of the Star Wars films been perfect, even Empire Strikes Back has a few flaws. However it gives us everything we wanted in a new Star Wars and it has fans and new fans talking and guessing what will happen next. And at the end of the day, isn't that what we fans want to be doing? Talking about what might happen next, instead of how they could have fixed an awful green screened mess of a movie. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This being my little soap box in the internet I just want to say, how awesome is Poe Dameron? In my long wizard like life I have seen a many things, but Hispanic on screen heroes have been few far in between. So seeing this Resistance pilot fly around and take down TIE-Fighters like it was Tuesday is just a great feeling, I could have used some more heroes like that growing up. But you know what, I have to say I enjoyed all the new comers to the Star Wars saga; Rey, Finn, BB-8 and Kylo Ren. Even Captain Phasma was pretty to cool, though what I would have given to seen her fight Finn, next movie perhaps? And holy crap, how great was Chewbacca?! For years everyone has agreed on how kick ass Wookies and Chewie really are and I am glad he got a lot of kick ass moments through out the film. I would also like to say that Han, Leia and Luke all did a great job as well. I know some people complained, but I felt it was still very much on point, though bring back Lando! I would have loved to have seen what Lando had been doing all these years. But again, maybe the next film...? Maybe? Hopefully. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also that Storm Trooper, give that man a cookie. You know the one I am talking about. Like all things the internet blows it out of the water with hype, but look into your hearts and you will see...he was pretty hype. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Just like the Force however, for all the good like the Jedi, you have the Sith. What did I not like about the movie. Honestly not much complaints, or at least nothing that ruined the experience in general. Did the last fight seem weird considering everything that we had just witnessed in the last two hours? Perhaps, but I am not going to let that be my deciding straw on how I feel about the movie overall. The Phantom Menace had a really good fight at the end of the movie, does that make it a great film? Hell no it didn't, we had to sit through Jar Jar Binks and seeing a little kid try to mack on Natalie Portman, it was a bad movie that ruined going to the movies to see Star Wars. The last confrontation in The Force Awakens feels right, it feels like a round one to a much larger fight that we all know is going to happen and on a larger scale, so no need to analyse it too much. That being said Phasma did seem really silly, it was Boba Fett all over again. And let's face it, Boba Fett seems like a big botch. You had a character people fell in love with just on his looks alone, the man just held his gun and nerds went nuts for him. He was the ultimate space bounty hunter, he was on the posters for the movies. And the most he did was delivered a frozen Han to a fat slug on Tatooine and get knocked into the mouth of monster. Huh? So you now have the chance to do it again, but this time correct the mistakes of the past, but you end up doing the same. However with two more movies, I could very well be wrong, hell I hope I am wrong. Star Wars, the balls is in your court, make your move. You made a Storm Trooper an internet hero, give Phasma something the viewers can remember. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And that's my take on Star Wars: The Force Awakens, a hell of a great time at the movies for sure and one movie that I am totally okay with paying to see again and again on the big screen. I saw Snakes on a Plane five times, though technically I was working at the theatre at the time so I didn't have to pay, but I think I can make some more time for Star Wars. Be proud fans of the Force, it is a good time to be a Star Wars fan that is for sure. So what do you think? Did you like it? Hate it? Want to talk about TR-8R for a bit? You can do so right here in the comments below. Be sure to follow my page, tell your friends and share on social media, every little bit helps. So stay tuned for what ever comes next, I am actually not sure what I am going to write, I am just writing. Like the force. See what I did there. Okay I am out of here, be good and be kind and until then, keep chasing the storm. </span><br />
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ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-10602438128190460402015-11-02T12:36:00.000-08:002015-11-02T12:36:32.307-08:00No Mo Heroes<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Time is a strong force isn't? Through time a lot of things can happen, time can patch grudges up and can connect to different memories. The strongest aspect of time however is change. Because as we move through our own time, without a doubt we all change. Sometimes we know it and we can control it, for some they don't even realize it is taking place, change is happening wether you know it or not. I bring up time and the power of change today because I wanted to address a few changes that I am slowly but surely noticing, changes in my life that I am working on and changes that no doubt happened without me realizing it was taking place. And trying to make sense of it all and share it with you here today, because I know I am not the only one in the world who may feel this way.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THIS WAS MY LIFE. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am not sure if you know or not, but I am an artist. Been drawing my whole life, but only three years ago did I get some real help and guidance to do something with my love of drawing. I am also a pretty big geek, always have been. My love falls into practically every category, from video games to comics to movies to music to fantasy to sci-fi to table top games to collectible card games and etc, but you get the point. I had Pokemon cards, still have my original collection actually. I still have every single console I ever bought and game as well. I have a sorted collection of thousands of Magic: The Gathering cards. What's my point though with all this? Well through out this 2015 year, which admittedly has been one of the most difficult years of my life, I have had to do a lot of soul searching, looking in the mirror and honestly trying to understand what is it that I see in the reflection. Because the reality is, I have been Alvaro Cruz, the geeky fanboy for a long time and the fact is it now time for Alvaro Cruz, the creator. I have to place my energy, money, attention to creating as much as I possibly can, to get my ideas out of my head and out to the world. To be known for my stories and characters, that time needs to be now! I know I have spent a lot of my energy on being a fan, looking up to other characters that I love and other artist that I admire, but at some point I have to take off and get my name out there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So what does this mean for me? Well it means I will be drawing way less Daredevil and way more Glass Prison. That being said, there are a few things I want to make clear. I am still a huge geeky fanboy, I can't change that. I am going to still buy comics, just not on a weekly basis. I will probably get maybe one or two here and there, but try to do some con shopping more. I am still going to play video games, because my mental health depends on it, just a half hour a day could do some good for you. I am still going to play Magic with my friends, because it's easily one of the best things to do when we meet up and get together. The only thing is now, my main focus will be creating content and working on my projects, promoting my stuff and do my best to improve on my art. And if you are an artist who also happens to be a fanboy/fangirl and you are wondering what you should do...? Well only you can decide that, it needs to be your decision, not anyone else's. Besides we love our fandoms and our collections for various reasons, it could be our way that we connect with friends or the way we unwind after a long day at a part time job, whatever the case these are important things to all of us and we should have them in our lives. But when you are ready to make change, time will be there to do it. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still very devoted to my Parun, Niv-Mizzet.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I must let long time readers know, that now Storm Watch is going to more about the actual me, ChileanStorm. I want to also take the time to share my new blog page as well, Cell 7, the official blog to the Glass Prison comic. Please check it out, follow it and tell as many people about it, doing my best to get this project off the ground and every/any kind of support means a lot to me. So thank you guys for reading and I am going to do my best to keep both pages going as much as I possibly can, been going through a lot these past few months and trying to make sense of everything around me, I also want to have this be an open space for us to talk, I want to face my depression and anxiety head on here, I want to share as much love as I can through these words. Thank you for reading and until the next time, keep chasing the storm. </span></div>
ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-65130880442586258992015-06-29T15:00:00.000-07:002015-07-01T09:13:38.626-07:00Wytches Be Like...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And that's a wrap on the first chapter of Wytches from Scott Synder and Jock, a tale of a family trying to survive and escape a dark curse of sorts. And after 6 issues of cliff hangers and jaw dropping moments after another, I've got to say Wytches #6 really does a hell of a job wrapping it all up and at the same time leaving you ready for more, the story will continue and I can't wait to see where it will go next. From the first issue, Wytches was able to create a sense of horror and mystery, the stories main characters were also good people you wanted to see get out of all of this alive. in Charlie, you see the struggle of a father who is trying to do best for his daughters and you see Sailor, a kid trying to make sense of everything that is going on. But you get the feeling of family, you see how together they are able to overcome any challenge in the past. But unfortunately for the Rook family, this challenge has tons of sharp teeth and is hungry. And once you are pledged, you are marked until they get you. So what can you do to escape an inescapable fate? We see that here in this issue and plenty more, so let's get to it, we are looking at Wytches #6 from Image comics.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So in the final chapter of this first arc, I felt that we do get some answer to a lot of the questions from the previous issues and a few unanswered ones as well, which is good though, we need reasons to come back for issue 7. There was a very cool book end effect with one of the first scenes from issue #1, that was actually really well done because I had no idea that the scene was going to important, I thought it was showing the viciousness of the wytches. Well it did do that as well, a two for one if you will. This is just an example of all the things done right in Wytches, every issue has been solid in writing and in the art department, being able to take a unique story and bring it to life like this should be the goal of all comic book creators. Synder creates a scenario that is horrifying and scary but doesn't feel over the top or ridiculous. The fear is real enough like a good urban legend, the kind of stories that really mess with your head, are there really creatures waiting to eat me in the woods? Maybe or maybe it's all in your head. And with Jock, his art is able to convey the same feelings of fear and the unknown. Some pages look like a drawn out nightmare and they look incredible, Jock has an undeniable style that his own and it works perfectly for this story. These two have made an incredible run so far and I hope they continue on until the story is finished. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is a highly recommended title for all horror comic book fans and even those who are just looking for something new to read. What I love most about Wytches in general is that it has a very Silent Hill feel to it, a psychological horror if you will. And I don't know about you guys, but that is probably my favourite kind of horror. So I highly suggest everyone gives this book and series a read as soon as you can, I have heard they are going to make a TV series based on Wytches, which I hope is on the ball and as good as the book. Unless you are a little kid or don't like scary things at all, I see no reason why you shouldn't be reading Wytches.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I ask, have you guys read Wytches? And if so, what did you think? Let me know in the comments below or send me a message over on Twitter (@ChileanStorm) and let's talk some Wytches. I had a pretty bad start of my week, I think I got food poisoning or a flu or both, not to mention my whole body felt like dry broken bones, so I am trying to change things up in my life, cutting back on the junk food and going to bed early to get 8 hours of sleep. Also got to get more active and moving more and what not. And you should as well. Take it from me, I am 28 and just some days ago I felt like I was 45, I was sore and hurt all over. So please take care of yourselves. You are important. But that's all the time I have for now, plenty more comic books to catch up with and share with all of you lovely little storm clouds. Until then, keep chasing the storm! </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8730966540556716453.post-32868760471821748582015-06-22T20:00:00.000-07:002015-06-22T23:00:42.955-07:00The Torment Legacy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You know what book I had not read in ages, for like the longest time, Todd McFarlane's Spider-man. And don't sit there like you don't know what book I am talking about, this is without a shadow of a doubt one the most famous comic books of all time. Is that an exaggeration? Not really, the success of this book, along with Liefeld (X-Force) and Lee (X-Men), they were able to change the comic book industry as we know it today. If you haven't seen the Image Comics documentary, it is an absolute must watch, even if you aren't that into comics, go and watch as soon as you can. That being said, I found this book in my collection and decided to give it a read again, see what it was all about. I remember hearing a lot of negative comments about this story, Torment, a story with Spider-man taking on The Lizard in a very gritty fashion. But I wonder, why can't Spider-man be gritty? I mean his enemies want to kill him, not slap him on the wrist. His first love was killed by a psychopath in a goblin suit, he then sold his marriage to the devil. How is Spider-man free from the gritty? While I see that tons and tons of kids love him and that's great, but kids also love Batman. And Batman is the undisputed king of grit. While I don't suggest every superhero go down the path of the Dark Knight, I do want to say that if you can do it right, all power to you. Spider-man Reign gets slammed so much by critics and fans, but I thought it was an incredible story with some of the greatest Spidey moments I have ever seen. If busting out of a coffin in the classic red and blue tights doesn't get your comic book blood pumping, nothing will. And so, if this is going to be a dark trip into the world of the friendly neighbourhood Spider-man, well so be it. And with that, let's take a look at Todd McFarlane's classic, from Marvel comics Spider-man issue 1. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Can we at least all agree this is the best looking Spider-man cover of all time though? It is absolutely iconic and eye popping, all those webs and spiders crawling all about and the hero right there in the middle of it all, looking better then ever. And yes back in the 90's there was a crazy trend that everything was going to be a collectors item in time and yes this cover had a couple of different styles, like the gold one or the black and white one. But still, this image is so incredible you can't be mad. How many fans have created fan art based on this cover? This has got to be a requested commission recreation on sketch covers at conventions for sure. Not to mention the amount of times the pose has been used for other books, it was even used later on a Spawn cover as well. But yeah, I love it. When I think Spider-man, I think of this cover.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Okay, so the actual book and all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Well while I admit it isn't the deepest piece of literature I have read, after going through it, I don't think it needs to be. Now keep in mind, McFarlane wrote and drew this book. But clearly he is an artist first, writer second. But he does have some good ideas and does a different take on this classic hero, this is a Todd McFarlane Spider-man for sure. And of all the villains he could have picked, he made a really interesting one with The Lizard. For the longest time, Lizard would crawl about and attack people but not really do too much damage, and you felt sympathetic for this character. After all, Doctor Connors isn't able to control his alter ego. But here we get a violent, hungry and gory Lizard, and it's pretty cool. So the while the writing does leave more to be desired, the ideas are really good and thanks to the art, ideas may be enough. The art in this book looks absolutely stunning, this was done well over 20 years ago and still looks as good as anything being done today. Say what you will about the man, you can't deny the absolute talent he has. The details in the webs, the way Spider-man moves through the city sky, even the look of all the people in New York, everything is brought to life in a way only a comic book can do. I highly urge to look through this book and tell me what you think, take in all the lines and all the action going on in each panel and tell me you don't see how an artist was able to change the comic book world. Spider-man will always be a cornerstone to the legacy of McFarlane and comic books as a whole. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ALM4nrYNO2HEeqcMRzkdpYLtPfM0lMEFzqmaDE4HF7NtNeTtuAvsyg8RGZNiKi7OGwjV9LJiNYEStcHLgzLfi-fxFOmPcNDw7zQKj2wUDfiThzVxg-hentm6DbpvyMLm2_HSSWgQlos/s1600/Spiderman+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ALM4nrYNO2HEeqcMRzkdpYLtPfM0lMEFzqmaDE4HF7NtNeTtuAvsyg8RGZNiKi7OGwjV9LJiNYEStcHLgzLfi-fxFOmPcNDw7zQKj2wUDfiThzVxg-hentm6DbpvyMLm2_HSSWgQlos/s320/Spiderman+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Is this book getting a pass to gold on it's art alone? Yeah I would say so. But also on how it change the game forever. You have to remember, Marvel doesn't just let anyone work on a Spider-man book, let alone write and draw one, unheard of. So this will probably be something we may never see again. But look, this is just what I think, it goes without saying that you can only take it for what it is, nothing is absolute. So what do you think about this issue? Do you see more warts and flaws, things I missed. Leave a comment below and let's talk comics. Well that's all I've got for today, going out to Brampton tomorrow, going to be doing a show for Pride Week over at Stadium Comics! Check out the details, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1117769988252083/" target="_blank">here</a>! And if you get a chance come down and get some art from me and Toby! That's right the worst guys will be there, so don't miss out. I should try to get some sleep now, until then guys keep chasing the storm! </span>ChileanStormhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17008355569789563391noreply@blogger.com0