What A Day!

Above, the El Rancho's lobby had more Christmas decorations yesterday. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday was rather interesting.

I had to go into Gallup to do some grocery shopping. Before doing so, I stopped at the Silver Screen cafe at the El Rancho Hotel for a breakfast of their Monument Valley Enchiladas. They were good (as usual).

In case I didn't see my waitress again before Christmas, I gave her a monetary Christmas bonus with her tip. I made her day, especially since business had been slow yesterday.

Above, the Silver Screen cafe's Christmas tree. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Before leaving home, I was somewhat concerned over the starting problems with my 1989 Mustang. But it had been starting good for this past week, so I decided to chance it. In back of my mind, if it should act up in Gallup, it would be near enough to my mechanic's so that if probrems should arise, they could finally find out what's causing the problem. They can't diagnose it if it starts.

Above, another view of the El Rancho's lobby. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

From the El Rancho, I headed to the market and got my groceries, including dairy and frozen foods.

Well, after loading the car with the groceries, the car tried to start but something choked it off and it wouldn't start. Luckily, it was only a few blocks from the mechanic, but I had to wait for Auto Club's tow truck to arrive, which ended up being a hour and a half later. Thankfully, the market put my perishables in their cooler. Greg Lucier came to give me a ride home. 

Finally, the tow truck arrived and it was towed to the mechanic's. 

The way the car was acting, I suspect the problem lies with the fuel system. In any case, I am having the fuel filter changed. Hopefully, the starting problem will finally be fixed.

When I got home, waiting for me on the porch was the 6" Godzilla Minus One vinyl figure by Bandai that I ordered on December 5. It arrived from Japan. Nice, fast service!

Above, the Bandai 6" Godzilla Minus One figure. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now for the wait to find out what ails the Mustang. Thank God I have the Jeep to drive around here.

"Godzilla Minus One" Figure Ordered

 

Well, I could have waited for G-FEST this coming summer, but I decided to go ahead and get this Bandai 6" Godzilla Minus One figure now over at eBay.

I am limited on the amount of room I have available, so a 6" figure will work.

It is due to arrive from Japan by December 15.

Godzilla Store Item Arrived

As mentioned in my post of August 31 about the Godzilla Store, I ordered an item from them to test out their service. I placed my order also on August 31.

Well, the item arrived today (actually, due to personnel issues with the Jamestown post office, it stayed an extra day yesterday in Gallup). So it took about a week for it to get here.

I ordered a SUPER7 REACTION FIGURE - GODZILLA 1954 TRAIN BITER (PENN-PLAX).

When I opened the box this morning, there was a thank-you card with a pinback button. On the reverse side of the card, was a blurb (I guess you can call it that) or promotion on Godzilla Minus One.

Here's the items:

I am pleased with the items and, especially, the fast service by the Godzilla Store.

To access the Godzilla Store, go here.

Pee and Have Fun With Pee-Litical Targets

 

Just in time for Christmas!

Want to give His Fraudulency something that he deserves while you're in the loo taking a whiz? 

This fun item hooks onto a toilet seat and projects an image of Biden (or others) down into the toilet. Then you can pee on his face to your heart's content!

Above, the projected image of His Fraudulency.

I suppose women would have a bit more difficulty in pissing on the image.

I've seen these available on both eBay and Amazon. Have fun!

Cousin Eddie's 1972 Condor II Motorhome

 

While on Facebook this morning, I saw an ad for a beat-up motorhome that looked familiar.

It is the 1972 Condor II Motorhome of Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989). The price: $11.99 through 3000Toys.com.

I never knew that these were even offered.

When I Googled the motorhome, I found there's even Christmas tree ornaments of it.

New Godzilla Toy

My Godzilla: King of the Monsters toy arrived in the mail today.

It is a bit larger than I expected. But I'm not complaining. I just have to figure out where to put it. For the time being, I have it on top of my curio cabinet.

They Just Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To, Or...

...I have one strong kitty!

Above, the Red Barn Feed & Saddlery. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, I stopped by the Red Barn Feed & Saddlery store in Tarzana. I haven't been there in a while. My mom and I used to go there quite a lot. While she shopped, I would spend my time looking at the historical newspapers hanging on the walls around the store and munching on their free popcorn.

Above and below, Sierra having a grand time. Photos by Armand Vaquer.

I picked up a bag of cat litter and got Sierra a toy. The toy cost $8.00.

The toy mounts on glass or other smooth surfaces and has a bird on the end of an elastic string.

In no time, Sierra broke the string and the gizmo that attaches the string onto a bar also came apart. I re-tied the string and used Crazy Glue to fix the gizmo. I let it set overnight.

Above, playing with the bird part after breaking the string. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This morning, I re-mounted it on the patio glass and Sierra was kept occupied with it for hours.

However, the bar that attaches to the sucker that sticks it onto the window broke. My previous fixes are still okay. That has to be one strong cat or the plastic bar was very cheaply made. $8.00 for that?!

I'll try to fix it with Crazy Glue.

They just don't make cat toys like they used to, apparently.

Things To Bring To Japan and Leave Home

Above, a hotel room in Sasebo, Kyushu. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If one is visiting Japan for the first time, there are essential things to bring along, and there are some things that should be left at home. Leaving some stuff at home makes sense if one wants to free up luggage space to bring back some souvenirs, such as Godzilla toys. Most of these items can be purchased cheaply in Japan or the hotel will provide them.

Kyo Tours Japan has posted a blog on 5 things to bring to Japan and 3 to leave at home.

They start it with:

Recently, I've been getting a lot of questions from guests via email about what they should be packing for their time in Japan. This sort of thing varies by season (it's always gonna be hotter and colder than you assume, trust me), but it got me thinking about some general advice that could go a long way when packing before joining us in Japan on one of our full or half day Kyoto tours. 

So here are 5 things that you might want to consider bringing with you to Japan no matter what time of year you're going to be visiting in.

 To read more, go here.

Movie Monster Series Godzilla 2016 Vinyl Figure Has Arrived

Above, the Bandai Movie Monster Series Godzilla 2016 Vinyl Figure. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Bandai Movie Monster Series Godzilla 2016 Vinyl Figure has arrived today. It is the Shin Godzilla (or Godzilla Resurgence) figure.

I finally broke down and bought one. I've been slowing down on buying Godzilla and other kaiju toys since space at La Casa Vaquer is limited.

It is a nice 6" figure and it sure does have a long tail!

Here's some more photos:

"Shin Godzilla" Toy Order, Etc.

Well, I finally broke down and ordered a Bandai Shin Godzilla figure through Amazon.com. It will be arriving here around August 4. I have tapered off on buying Godzilla figures as, to put it bluntly, I don't have much room.

From what I've seen so far, the buzz on Shin Godzilla (Toho Co., Ltd.) has been pretty positive from those who have seen it in advance screenings. It hits Japanese theaters today. That seems to be a far cry from the mixed reactions to Toho's last Godzilla movie, Godzilla Final Wars (2004). I happen to be in the "liking it" camp.

To make things even more exciting for fans, Shin Godzilla will be released theatrically in the U.S. and other North, Central and South American countries by Funimation Films as Godzilla Resurgence.

The announcement was made last week at Comic Con in San Diego.

According to Movieweb.com:

Last night in a surprise announcement to fans at San Diego Comic Con 2016, Funimation Films announced its acquisition of the live action film Godzilla: Resurgence (a.k.a. Shin Godzilla) from Toho Company, Ltd. The agreement includes theatrical, home entertainment, video on demand and broadcast rights for the upcoming Japanese live-action feature film and covers all of the Americas (North America, Central America, South America and the Caribbean). Funimation is currently planning to release Godzilla: Resurgence in theaters in late 2016.

This will be the first theatrically-released Toho-produced Godzilla movie in the U.S. since Godzilla 2000 in August 2000.

Above, the Godzilla mural at Toho Studios last October. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We stopped by Toho Studios last October during the filming of Shin Godzilla. While we stepped foot inside the studio, we didn't get an invite to view the filming (not that we expected one). "Sigh."

To read more, go here. 

Godzilla Wind-up Toy

This is a Godzilla wind-up toy that one of my dinner party guests gave me last month at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo:

Sierra, my new kitten, is still leery of it to chase it.

6 "Must-Have" Souvenirs From Japan

Above, a Bandai Godzilla 1968 toy I picked up in Asakusa. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Okay, the above Godzilla toy is not on JNTO's "Only In Japan" list, but they do have six "must-have" souvenirs that foreign visitors should buy (for themselves, family or friends) while in Japan.

They start off with:

From New Year’s surprises, to matcha flavored munchies, tax-free bargains and more, Japan is a shopper’s paradise! To help create your shopping list, check out our tips for “must have” souvenirs from Japan.

We bought a couple of yukatas which are included in the list's Japanese Traditional Goods (item number 3) category.

To see their tips on what to get, go here. 

Godzilla From "Godzilla vs. Spacegodzilla" By NECA

Above, Godzilla all packaged. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This morning, I took a little jaunt over to the local Walgreen's drug store to pick up a few things and I saw a NECA Godzilla from Godzilla vs. Spacegodzilla on the shelf.

It seemed to cry out, "Buy me!" So I did.

Above, the unpackaged Godzilla. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

In Case Anyone's Wondering...

Above, Sinclair Oil's Dino stuffed toys. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A few days ago, I mentioned seeing stuffed Dino toys advertising Sinclair Oil Corporation at a gas station in Yellowstone National Park.

I also mentioned that dino exprt, writer, director and Godzilla fan Donald Glut would like one, should I find any on our way back home.

Well, after several stops at different Sinclair gas stations in Wyoming, Idaho and Utah, I succeeded in picking up a couple.

As soon as it can be arranged, I will meet with Glut to present him with his Sinclair Dino.

Day Trip To Little Tokyo

Above, visitors to Anime Jungle's collectible store are greeted by Astro Boy. Photos by Armand Vaquer.

Today was spent in Little Tokyo while Jes was shopping in the Los Angeles Fashion District (where else?). Thankfully, the rains ended before we arrived.

While in Little Tokyo, I picked up a 2015 calendar. It's a good thing I bought a calendar now instead of waiting until New Year's Oshogatsu celebration. I bought it at the Kinokuniya Bookstore and they had "slim pickings" as far as calendars go. They probably would have had a lot less around New Year's.

After Kinokuniya, I went to Anime Jungle and browsed around and picked up this Godzilla 2004 toy:

Godzilla On Order

Finally, I broke down and ordered a NEC Godzilla 2014 12-inch action figure yesterday.

I like the 24-inch figure better, but since room is rather scarce these days between my stuff and my roomie's, I opted instead for the 12-inch figure. I should be receiving it in the mail by next Thursday.

The design is okay (way better than the iguana that was passed off as Godzilla in 1998) except for the feet and legs. It makes Godzilla look like he has a water-retention problem (or cankles).

Bubble Blowing Godzilla

The above photo accompanied a birthday greeting over at Facebook tonight.

The original caption was, "Godzilla teaching kids how to bong since 1985..."

I don't recall if I ever saw one of these before.

Warner Bros. Consumer Products Shakes Up Toy Fair Season With Humongous Licensing Programs, Including This Summer's Much-Anticipated Film Godzilla From Legendary Pictures

Source: Warner Bros. Press Release

BURBANK, Calif., Jan. 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) is storming into the 2014 Toy Fair season with an impressive line-up of global licensees in support of the Studio's beloved entertainment properties, milestone anniversaries and upcoming theatrical debuts. Leading the way this year is the highly anticipated film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, Godzilla, which hits theaters on May 16, and will be supported with an epic toy line-up from master toy partner Bandai America Incorporated, and many more partners around the world.  WBCP will also highlight Middle-earth with the long-awaited finale of The Hobbit Trilogy, The Hobbit: There And Back Again, supported by its strong roster of worldwide licensees. Additionally, The Wizard of Oz will lead WBCP's milestone celebrations in 2014, which will all see exciting licensing support from a number of cross-category partners this year. WBCP and its licensing partners from around the globe will also spotlight product inspired by fan favorites such as its DC Comics portfolio, including evergreen Super Heroes Batman and Superman, and Looney Tunes, The Big Bang Theory, Harry Potter and more to round out the Studio's unrivaled portfolio.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140130/NY56185LOGO )

"With a host of renowned licensees signed on to support a broad spectrum of entertainment properties, Warner Bros. Consumer Products enters the 2014 Toy Fair season ready to delight," said Brad Globe, president of Warner Bros. Consumer Products.  "And with fan excitement for Warner Bros. Pictures' and Legendary Pictures' Godzilla running high, we're eager to bring the buzz to Toy Fair with a toy line-up that is fit for the 'King of the Monsters.'"

Godzilla: A Blockbuster Block-BusterWith a nearly 60-year heritage, Godzilla and his trademark ROAR are recognized throughout the world by fans of all ages.  Master toy partner Bandai America Incorporated will capture the thrills of the motion picture with an innovative line-up of toys inspired by the film.  The highly anticipated film will also see support from JAKKS Pacific, Inc. as it brings this iconic and legendary figure to life with a line of large-scale figures and other toy products inspired by the "King of the Monsters"; Rubie's will design Godzilla costumes that are sure to delight children and adult fans; NECA will also be supporting Godzilla with a comprehensive line of novelty and collector toys across a variety of price points; and Sideshow Collectibles will offer authentic statues; among many other partners around the world.

For more, go here.

Dollar Tops 99 Yen For First Time In Nearly Four Years

Above, toys like this Hedorah figure are getting less expensive.  Photo by Armand Vaquer.

American tourists considering a vacation in Japan got some encouraging news today.  The dollar topped ¥99 in trading today in Tokyo.

According to Jiji Press:

Tokyo, April 8 (Jiji Press)--The dollar briefly rose above 99 yen for the first time in about three years and 11 months in Tokyo trading Monday, supported by a set of aggressive monetary easing measures introduced by the Bank of Japan late last week.

While this is still far from the ¥116 per dollar exchange rate I received in April 2007, it is a lot better than the 79 yen per dollar rate of July 2011.

This means that American tourists will be able to get more yen in exchange for their dollars, which would make a Japan vacation more affordable.  Some tours and services (such as the JR Rail Pass) are tied to the current rate of exchange.  Those, too, are now cheaper than they were just two years ago.

If you are thinking of taking a trip to Japan to see those kaiju locations and landmarks and to buy those Godzilla toys you've always wanted, this should help you to make your decision a lot easier and put a big smile on your weary wallet.

To read more, go here. 

40 Years of "Godzilla vs. Hedorah": The Men Who Played Godzilla and Hedorah

Above, Kenpachiro Satsuma (Hedorah) and Haruo Nakajima (Godzilla) take a break during the filming of "Godzilla vs. Hedorah." This still was signed by both actors. From the personal collection of Armand Vaquer.

As posted previously, July marks 40 years since the release of Godzilla vs. Hedorah (1971) in Japan.

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the two men who gave it their all in their portrayals of Godzilla and his foe, Hedorah.

Above, Kenpachiro Satsuma (left) and Haruo Nakajima share a laugh in Hollywood 29 years after making "Godzilla vs. Hedorah." Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I had the good fortune to first meet Kenpachiro Satsuma (Hedorah) and Haruo Nakajima (Godzilla) at G-FEST 2000 in Hollywood. Since then, I have gotten to know Mr. Nakajima well and attended a dinner party in the Nakano section of Tokyo with Mr. Satsuma in 2001, following the premiere of Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack at the Tokyo International Film Festival. Both men are some of the nicest people I've ever met in show business.

Satsuma played Hedorah and other monsters before he took over the Godzilla role in 1984 in Return of Godzilla (a.k.a. Godzilla 1985). His stint as Godzilla ended with Godzilla vs. Destoroyah in 1995.

Above, the Bandai Hedorah toy I bought during my 2007 Japan vacation.

Nakajima's appearance of Godzilla in Godzilla vs. Hedorah was second to the last before his retirement from the role. He began his run as Godzilla in the original 1954 feature. His last appearance as Godzilla was in the following year's Godzilla vs. Gigan. Nakajima published an autobiography of his life and career in Japan last year. He is now a spry 82-year-old.

A tip of the cap to both men and domo arigato gozaimasu!