Consumption Insanity

It's Monday, and since I've established Monday as an official blogging day, here I am. I really don't have much of an introduction today, but I just remembered that it's Valentine's Day. Maybe I should've done something with that... No matter, let's cut to the chase, shall we?

Loch Ness Monster Book!

Oh, Nessie... You're so good to me.

I glimpsed this little paperback gem sticking out a bit from the kids book section and yanked it out with no hesitation. When I was a kid, I was completely convinced of the existence of the Loch Ness Monster, and it's all thanks to reading books like these. I was also a fan of Bigfoot, the Abominable Snowman, UFO's, ghosts, the Bermuda Triangle, and spontaneous combustion. Looking back, I think it's good for people to believe that there are still fragments of mystery and magic somewhere in the world that goes beyond human understanding. Although, admittedly, some of those people are nuts.

The book is filled from cover to cover with historical information, scientific interpretation and inconclusive photographs of what may be Nessie herself, or just plain old logs and gas bubbles. Regardless, it's a fun thing to suspend your disbelief for a while and immerse yourself in crazy legend that reaches far back into history. While the possibility of a giant monster living for such a long time without some asshole shooting it seems highly unlikely, the tales of the Loch Ness monster continue to intrigue and amaze both adults and children the world over.

Cost of Nessie Book: $.36

Big Ass Leonardo!

C'mere, Leonardo, and give me a hug.

Somebody knew I was coming. Somebody knew that I am powerless over Turtles merchandise and put this out especially for me. The price tag made it potentially the most expensive item I've covered in the blog, but I knew if I didn't buy it today I'd never see it again. They got me.

This guy is huuuuuuge! He's a foot tall, and quite bulky. I'm pretty sure Leo was more intended for display than play, as I'm not sure how a kid could lug him around all day. And what if the kid in question owned all four turtles? He'd need a wagon to haul them around in.

Despite his size, Leo looks like he's been played with a good deal. He's knicked and scuffed in places, and a bit dirty. No serious damage, though, and the surprising amount of posable parts are still tight. Unfortunately, Leo is missing both removable swords from the holder on his back. Despite his few shortcomings, Leonardo would still look great on a shelf, alone or with other TMNT memorabilia.

To be completely honest, Leonardo was always my least favorite turtle. He's Splinter's golden boy and always the virtuous leader, which puts him in stark contrast to my favorite turtle, Raphael (the red one, in case you're not up on things), who's the angry loner of the group. Personal preference aside, Leo is still one of the turtles, and I like his action figures.

The figure is from the year 2002, as indicated on the bottom of Leo's foot. Also on his feet is the name "Thad Riddle," with one name on each foot. A riddle, indeed. Who are you, Thad Riddle, and what have you done with Leonardo's swords?

Cost of One-Foot Leonardo: $3.44

That does it for the Monday post. I'll see you on the other side of the week!