Who's Living in a Fantasy World?

With the recent Hobbit movie in theaters, I've been hearing a lot of geek chatter lately. I enjoy Fantasy and Science Fiction movies so I would classify myself in the Nerd / Geek category at times although I don't own any hobbit feet or Vulcan ears, and have not named any of my kids Legolas.

I think the stereotypical guys in their 30's living in their parents basement who are consumed with Fantasy role playing games get a bad rap. I know it's easy to label those who show up for movies looking like this and say they are living in a fantasy world.

But...before you go pointing fingers and accusing people like this of not being in touch with reality, I'd like to point out that there is a worse offender who has been getting off the hook for years.

I think it is actually more likely that a wizard would appear to you to send you on a quest with a magical sword and several companions to defeat a dark lord than it is that Fabio is going to show up at some housewife's doorstep with a rose in his mouth.

So who is the worse offender of living in a fantasy world, your middle earth enthusiasts or the regular Harlequin romance reader? Just a thought.

Winter Expectations

We recently got our first real snow storm of the year and it is interesting to see the different reactions people have to the weather.

My friends who ski and enjoy spending time outside this time of year are very excited. These winter enthusiasts see the upcoming months as opportunities for recreation, holiday fun, and time with friends and family. Their optimistic attitudes resemble the beautiful winter scene to the left.

I have heard others express fear of driving on icy roads or having their heating bills shoot through the roof. Some view the winter as being symbolic of earth's death. They associate it with cold temperatures, decreased sunlight, increased financial strain, dirty snow, and depression.

I try to be a glass half full guy, but I have to admit I can easily relate to those in the second group. If I could get away for a month up to a warm cabin and sit around watching videos and drinking hot chocolate with my family without any financial concerns, then I would be much more excited about winter.

Rather than be a party-pooper, I am going to try to have a good attitude over the next several months knowing that we will eventually have warmer weather, more sunlight, green grass and leaves again instead of the great desolation which is now upon us. Happy Winter. Let the count down for Spring begin!