Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

"Virtuality": Did It Suck or Not?

You may have missed it last Friday, but Fox aired a groovy sci-fi show titled "Virtuality." See the video below for a clip. What hooked me what that it was created by some of the same folks behind the already-classic remake of "Battlestar Galactica."

The premise is basically Earth is in environmental collapse, and this ship and its crew are looking for an alternative home for us Earthlings. Switch it up by adding that the ship's crew is also part of a reality TV show, and every waking moment is being filmed for their millions of fans back home trying to survive tsunamis, etc. The crew breaks up the tedium of space travel and research and not knowing whether it's really day or night by fighting with each other and by escaping into their own virtuality reality--sort of like the holodeck on "Star Trek: Voyager." The only problem is, someone is screwing with their fantasies and trying to either rape or kill them!

The show played with interesting concepts of consciousness, whether anything we perceive is "real" and how humans handle that (or don't). We get a real idea of how tedious and maddening space travel might be, and what it's really like to throw 13 people into a small space for 10 years. And I thought "Big Brother" was icky!

"Virtuality" looked promising: compelling premise, interesting characters and writing and production values. It even had hunky men--like Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (pictured), previously of Fox's cancelled "New Amsterdam"--and a gay astronaut couple! Although some of the crew conflict scenes grated on my nerves, I realled wanted to find out who was tinkering with their "holodeck" and exactly where Commander Pike's apparent near-death experience would lead. But since Fox isn't picking up the show for a full series, I'll never know! The show ended with a great cliffhanger--and that's it! Did Pike really die? Had the crew been lied to about their mission?

If you saw it, I'd love to hear your opinion. It looked like an intelligent show. Meanwhile, we have "Dance Your A** Off!"

Here's what one critic had to say. Check out a video clip below.

"Virtuality": Did It Suck or Not?

You may have missed it last Friday, but Fox aired a groovy sci-fi show titled "Virtuality." See the video below for a clip. What hooked me what that it was created by some of the same folks behind the already-classic remake of "Battlestar Galactica."

The premise is basically Earth is in environmental collapse, and this ship and its crew are looking for an alternative home for us Earthlings. Switch it up by adding that the ship's crew is also part of a reality TV show, and every waking moment is being filmed for their millions of fans back home trying to survive tsunamis, etc. The crew breaks up the tedium of space travel and research and not knowing whether it's really day or night by fighting with each other and by escaping into their own virtuality reality--sort of like the holodeck on "Star Trek: Voyager." The only problem is, someone is screwing with their fantasies and trying to either rape or kill them!

The show played with interesting concepts of consciousness, whether anything we perceive is "real" and how humans handle that (or don't). We get a real idea of how tedious and maddening space travel might be, and what it's really like to throw 13 people into a small space for 10 years. And I thought "Big Brother" was icky!

"Virtuality" looked promising: compelling premise, interesting characters and writing and production values. It even had hunky men--like Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (pictured), previously of Fox's cancelled "New Amsterdam"--and a gay astronaut couple! Although some of the crew conflict scenes grated on my nerves, I realled wanted to find out who was tinkering with their "holodeck" and exactly where Commander Pike's apparent near-death experience would lead. But since Fox isn't picking up the show for a full series, I'll never know! The show ended with a great cliffhanger--and that's it! Did Pike really die? Had the crew been lied to about their mission?

If you saw it, I'd love to hear your opinion. It looked like an intelligent show. Meanwhile, we have "Dance Your A** Off!"

Here's what one critic had to say. Check out a video clip below.

"Battlestar Galactica": Angels, Mitochondrial Eve and the Divine Plan

Can't let the series end without one last post--even though I'm not quite sure what to say. Mostly my mind is elsewhere due to a busy and intense weekend (but more on that later!).

Although I would change a few things, overall I really liked how BSG ended. We finally got to see what all that fuss was about visions of an "opera house" and how it tied into protecting Hera and the future of humanity (as well as the Cylons). Of course, we still don't who was orchestrating all that, do we? However, I feel like, once again, the Cylons get a bum rap. Sure, the Centurions got their freedom and they went off to live happily ever after. And the 2s, 6s and 8s stayed around New Earth--except we really don't know if they intermarried with the humans or what. In the end, it was all about the humans. Nice touch, though, with half-breed Hera turning into Mitochondrial Eve. And with all the death and destruction, at least my man Helo survived!

Biggest Surprise: Starbuck simply vanishing! Still don't know what she was--but that's ok. The finale didn't answer every question (no surprise), but I think the writers gave us enough satisfaction without explaining everything.

Saddest Moment: Roslin's death. We all knew it was coming, and it still brought a tear to my eye. Great characters (Adama, too) and great actors!

Most Spine-Tingling: Starbuck realizing those colored notes Hera gave her correspond to jump coordinates for Galactica! The editing in this scene and the music were incredible, and it wove together so much of Starbuck's character--I feel that I should've seen it coming but just didn't, and that made it so much sweeter

Funniest Moment: Chief strangling Tory! She kind of deserved it, don't you think? And for 2nd place, the realization by Caprica and Gaius that they could each "see" their respective angels (they are angels, right?). Anyway, I laughed out loud when they said, "You can see them?"

Which brings me to my favorite part, how the writers wrapped up the storyline between Caprica and Gaius. I liked the mystery of it all, and I liked learning more about how Gaius gave Caprica access to those defense system files because, well--gosh darn it--he was falling in love! Twisted, sure, but heartwarming nonetheless. And then we get to see the angels 150,000 years in the future, once again pondering the fate of humanity. Kinda creepy how they mixed in images of modern-day robotics--makes you wonder!

I did think it was a bit preachy--you know, humans are horrible creatures incapable of anything but destruction and need divine guidance. Sure, there's evidence for that just as there's evidence that we are also loving, caring creatures who do just fine without worshipping some unseen being that may or may not exist.

My favorite line: When Caprica says, "Don't call him God. You know he doesn't like that name."

Gaius had some great lines, too. He insists there was a divine force at work, behind the scenes, and it certainly appears that way. In his pivotal speech to Cavil, here's what stood out to me:

"God's not on any one side. God's a force of nature, beyond good and evil. Good and evil, we created those. Want to break the cycle? Break the cycle of birth, death, rebirth, destruction, escape, death? Well, that's in our hands and our hands only. It requires a leap of faith. It requires that we live in hope, not fear."

I love this! And I think it's so true. And this weaves in so well with things I'm experiencing and learning in my own life---it's scary! I have cycles of my own I'm trying to break.

All in all--a fantastic ride. I'll miss these characters and this show. Not because I can't find other sci-fi material to enjoy but because of the intelligent, timeless questions BSG pondered. I totally get off on that.

Here's an interesting take on BSG from a religious/spiritual perspective that I found.

Fortunately, there's the new "Caprica" series starting in the fall--as well as a 2-hour show from the Cylon perspective! Ooooooh--that should be good!

Well, for not knowing what to say, I sure took up some bytes. Thanks for reading!

"Battlestar Galactica": Angels, Mitochondrial Eve and the Divine Plan

Can't let the series end without one last post--even though I'm not quite sure what to say. Mostly my mind is elsewhere due to a busy and intense weekend (but more on that later!).

Although I would change a few things, overall I really liked how BSG ended. We finally got to see what all that fuss was about visions of an "opera house" and how it tied into protecting Hera and the future of humanity (as well as the Cylons). Of course, we still don't who was orchestrating all that, do we? However, I feel like, once again, the Cylons get a bum rap. Sure, the Centurions got their freedom and they went off to live happily ever after. And the 2s, 6s and 8s stayed around New Earth--except we really don't know if they intermarried with the humans or what. In the end, it was all about the humans. Nice touch, though, with half-breed Hera turning into Mitochondrial Eve. And with all the death and destruction, at least my man Helo survived!

Biggest Surprise: Starbuck simply vanishing! Still don't know what she was--but that's ok. The finale didn't answer every question (no surprise), but I think the writers gave us enough satisfaction without explaining everything.

Saddest Moment: Roslin's death. We all knew it was coming, and it still brought a tear to my eye. Great characters (Adama, too) and great actors!

Most Spine-Tingling: Starbuck realizing those colored notes Hera gave her correspond to jump coordinates for Galactica! The editing in this scene and the music were incredible, and it wove together so much of Starbuck's character--I feel that I should've seen it coming but just didn't, and that made it so much sweeter

Funniest Moment: Chief strangling Tory! She kind of deserved it, don't you think? And for 2nd place, the realization by Caprica and Gaius that they could each "see" their respective angels (they are angels, right?). Anyway, I laughed out loud when they said, "You can see them?"

Which brings me to my favorite part, how the writers wrapped up the storyline between Caprica and Gaius. I liked the mystery of it all, and I liked learning more about how Gaius gave Caprica access to those defense system files because, well--gosh darn it--he was falling in love! Twisted, sure, but heartwarming nonetheless. And then we get to see the angels 150,000 years in the future, once again pondering the fate of humanity. Kinda creepy how they mixed in images of modern-day robotics--makes you wonder!

I did think it was a bit preachy--you know, humans are horrible creatures incapable of anything but destruction and need divine guidance. Sure, there's evidence for that just as there's evidence that we are also loving, caring creatures who do just fine without worshipping some unseen being that may or may not exist.

My favorite line: When Caprica says, "Don't call him God. You know he doesn't like that name."

Gaius had some great lines, too. He insists there was a divine force at work, behind the scenes, and it certainly appears that way. In his pivotal speech to Cavil, here's what stood out to me:

"God's not on any one side. God's a force of nature, beyond good and evil. Good and evil, we created those. Want to break the cycle? Break the cycle of birth, death, rebirth, destruction, escape, death? Well, that's in our hands and our hands only. It requires a leap of faith. It requires that we live in hope, not fear."

I love this! And I think it's so true. And this weaves in so well with things I'm experiencing and learning in my own life---it's scary! I have cycles of my own I'm trying to break.

All in all--a fantastic ride. I'll miss these characters and this show. Not because I can't find other sci-fi material to enjoy but because of the intelligent, timeless questions BSG pondered. I totally get off on that.

Here's an interesting take on BSG from a religious/spiritual perspective that I found.

Fortunately, there's the new "Caprica" series starting in the fall--as well as a 2-hour show from the Cylon perspective! Ooooooh--that should be good!

Well, for not knowing what to say, I sure took up some bytes. Thanks for reading!

Collision of Worlds! "Battlestar Galactica" Lands at the United Nations

No, it's not a Cylon invasion--although there are some critics out there who may think the UN is run by robots. Just some Battlestar Galactica creators and actors heading to the UN to discuss heady stuff like human rights, armed conflict and terrorism.

Kind of odd having actors do this, but hey, with the moral quandaries the actors have brought to life on the show, why not? The UN needs all the help it can get. Besides, these actors aren't any worse than you or I spouting off about these things. We need Mary McDonnell (Roslin) to show 'em how it's done anyway!

Even odder, Whoopie Goldberg is moderator! Who better for that job than Guinan?! (I miss her.)

Only 3 days left til the end! Will you be ready??

Collision of Worlds! "Battlestar Galactica" Lands at the United Nations

No, it's not a Cylon invasion--although there are some critics out there who may think the UN is run by robots. Just some Battlestar Galactica creators and actors heading to the UN to discuss heady stuff like human rights, armed conflict and terrorism.

Kind of odd having actors do this, but hey, with the moral quandaries the actors have brought to life on the show, why not? The UN needs all the help it can get. Besides, these actors aren't any worse than you or I spouting off about these things. We need Mary McDonnell (Roslin) to show 'em how it's done anyway!

Even odder, Whoopie Goldberg is moderator! Who better for that job than Guinan?! (I miss her.)

Only 3 days left til the end! Will you be ready??

"Battlestar Galactica": The End Is Near!

Mostly I thought this episode was beautifully done, especially with the flashbacks for several characters. Nice to see Gaius' dad and Starbuck with Zak. But can anyone explain the scene with a drunk Apollo and the pigeon?? That whooshing sound is the metaphor buzzing over my head. But overall, it seemed to flow well and was quite poetic. Even I'm going to miss that clunky old battlestar!

However--it's obvious the series finale is going to be a collective kamikaze mission to rescue Hera and destroy the Cylon Colony. Which is not so creative, IMHO. It's sad to see Galactica stripped of all her spare parts and everything put in boxes, but I just don't see all the main characters jumping on board the suicide mission.

The admiral? Sure. Starbuck? Sure. But the Final 5? Don't they have some higher destiny? Ok, Hera's important and all but something doesn't ring true. And wait, Apollo is going, too? Isn't he the President of the Colonies?? We see Adama turning back Doc Cottle, saying, "We can't lose another doctor," but not saying anything to his own son who is the frakkin' president? Oh, him? Expendable. Not to mention former prez Roslin, but that seems at least understandable (more great acting by Mary M!). And where the hell were Athena and Helo? Athena's still grieving, so maybe I can understand that, but you'd think Helo would've been in that hangar scene since Hera IS his daughter. Are we supposed to assume he'll be there? Basically, sloppy writing. They needed all the major characters together, so this was the hook.

One other bone to pick. So far, Anders has mumbled jibberish for the last several episodes, but suddenly, with just one question from Adama--he delivers the exact coordinates for the Cylon Colony?! Oh, well, that was convenient! Starbuck spends gods knows how much time trying to figure out those damn musical notes--but, nada. However, Adama steps in, asks his question of the Cylon Eight Ball and, poof, we're off on a suicide mission!

And another thing I don't like--Jamie Bamber's (Apollo) hair is too poofy!

Well, for better or worse, only 2 HOURS LEFT! What will I do with myself on Friday nights!?

And I had to share this last photo, of BSG actresses Grace Park, Tricia Helfer and Katie Sakoff, all dolled up for some GQ magazine photo shoot. Love the glam, girls!

"Battlestar Galactica": The End Is Near!

Mostly I thought this episode was beautifully done, especially with the flashbacks for several characters. Nice to see Gaius' dad and Starbuck with Zak. But can anyone explain the scene with a drunk Apollo and the pigeon?? That whooshing sound is the metaphor buzzing over my head. But overall, it seemed to flow well and was quite poetic. Even I'm going to miss that clunky old battlestar!

However--it's obvious the series finale is going to be a collective kamikaze mission to rescue Hera and destroy the Cylon Colony. Which is not so creative, IMHO. It's sad to see Galactica stripped of all her spare parts and everything put in boxes, but I just don't see all the main characters jumping on board the suicide mission.

The admiral? Sure. Starbuck? Sure. But the Final 5? Don't they have some higher destiny? Ok, Hera's important and all but something doesn't ring true. And wait, Apollo is going, too? Isn't he the President of the Colonies?? We see Adama turning back Doc Cottle, saying, "We can't lose another doctor," but not saying anything to his own son who is the frakkin' president? Oh, him? Expendable. Not to mention former prez Roslin, but that seems at least understandable (more great acting by Mary M!). And where the hell were Athena and Helo? Athena's still grieving, so maybe I can understand that, but you'd think Helo would've been in that hangar scene since Hera IS his daughter. Are we supposed to assume he'll be there? Basically, sloppy writing. They needed all the major characters together, so this was the hook.

One other bone to pick. So far, Anders has mumbled jibberish for the last several episodes, but suddenly, with just one question from Adama--he delivers the exact coordinates for the Cylon Colony?! Oh, well, that was convenient! Starbuck spends gods knows how much time trying to figure out those damn musical notes--but, nada. However, Adama steps in, asks his question of the Cylon Eight Ball and, poof, we're off on a suicide mission!

And another thing I don't like--Jamie Bamber's (Apollo) hair is too poofy!

Well, for better or worse, only 2 HOURS LEFT! What will I do with myself on Friday nights!?

And I had to share this last photo, of BSG actresses Grace Park, Tricia Helfer and Katie Sakoff, all dolled up for some GQ magazine photo shoot. Love the glam, girls!

"Battlestar Galactica": I'm OK, You're OK

Basically this episode was all about getting a grip (finally, thank the gods!) on reality and moving on, as seen with Starbuck coming to terms with her new identity and with Sam, as well as with Adama's decision to abandon the Galactica. Caprica Six made Gaius cry, and Apollo *almost* made Starbuck cry. Can you feel the love?

But the best part? We got a glimpse of the mysterious Cylon colony! Very cool.

Best line?: Starbuck commenting on an attempt by the Cylons to revive Sam, "So you jumped him off like a car." Priceless!

Best scene? Ok, two scenes did it for me. One was Adama and Roslin smoking weed ...er, "cemala," in BSG-speak. So, that's what the kids are calling it these days. AND, the scene with Gaius shaving and Starbuck on the toilet. You don't see scenes like these on most other channels!

Only 2 episodes left!

"Battlestar Galactica": I'm OK, You're OK

Basically this episode was all about getting a grip (finally, thank the gods!) on reality and moving on, as seen with Starbuck coming to terms with her new identity and with Sam, as well as with Adama's decision to abandon the Galactica. Caprica Six made Gaius cry, and Apollo *almost* made Starbuck cry. Can you feel the love?

But the best part? We got a glimpse of the mysterious Cylon colony! Very cool.

Best line?: Starbuck commenting on an attempt by the Cylons to revive Sam, "So you jumped him off like a car." Priceless!

Best scene? Ok, two scenes did it for me. One was Adama and Roslin smoking weed ...er, "cemala," in BSG-speak. So, that's what the kids are calling it these days. AND, the scene with Gaius shaving and Starbuck on the toilet. You don't see scenes like these on most other channels!

Only 2 episodes left!

"Battlestart Galactica": The Crazy Boomer Bitch Is Back!

Boy, was I stupid! Here I was pining away for the heartfelt reunion of Tyrol and Boomer, thinking it would be a bright spot in the current doom-and-gloom of BSG. So I get my reunion--and it WAS sweet seeing these 2 cry and fawn over their imaginary child and imaginary, well-appointed home--but it would only result in yet more betrayals, pain and, finally, some action to move the plot forward!

Don't you just love this show?

I didn't see it coming, the whole thing with Boomer taking out Athena, having sex with Helo (can you blame her?) while Athena watches, bloodied and bound in a closet, and then kidnapping Hera to take back to grisly ol' Cavil.

And poor, stupid Tyrol. Yeah, these Final 5 aren't all that bright. Their children continue to outwit them.

Wasn't all that excited about the Starbuck/piano plot line. I mean, I knew it was supposed to maybe, kinda, possibly reveal a shadowy clue about something--but did we have to sit through all the "please, Kara, play me a tune," plink--plink--plink? But ok, so the song Starbuck's dad taught her was recognized by Saul and Ellen, and Hera had unwittingly (?) drawn the musical notes for Starbuck. Obviously, it will soon be discovered that Starbuck's dad was none other than the recently revealed Cylon Model #7, Daniel. The bigger question: Is there a Daniel model alive somewhere, waiting for his moment to bring salvation?

So how did Hera know those notes? Was it some kind of downloaded Cylon mass consciousness memory thing that somehow passed from Daniel to Athena, Hera's mom? Is there a greater significance to that particular song? Music was used earlier to trigger 4 of the Final 5 into action (and how that was planned has yet to be explained). Reminds me of how certain musical notes are supposed to resonate with each point in the chakra system.

And if Starbuck is indeed the first half-breed Cylon/human, does she have an as-yet-unexplained destiny, just like little Hera?

I'm SURE the writers can explain all this in just 3 frakkin' episodes!

"Battlestart Galactica": The Crazy Boomer Bitch Is Back!

Boy, was I stupid! Here I was pining away for the heartfelt reunion of Tyrol and Boomer, thinking it would be a bright spot in the current doom-and-gloom of BSG. So I get my reunion--and it WAS sweet seeing these 2 cry and fawn over their imaginary child and imaginary, well-appointed home--but it would only result in yet more betrayals, pain and, finally, some action to move the plot forward!

Don't you just love this show?

I didn't see it coming, the whole thing with Boomer taking out Athena, having sex with Helo (can you blame her?) while Athena watches, bloodied and bound in a closet, and then kidnapping Hera to take back to grisly ol' Cavil.

And poor, stupid Tyrol. Yeah, these Final 5 aren't all that bright. Their children continue to outwit them.

Wasn't all that excited about the Starbuck/piano plot line. I mean, I knew it was supposed to maybe, kinda, possibly reveal a shadowy clue about something--but did we have to sit through all the "please, Kara, play me a tune," plink--plink--plink? But ok, so the song Starbuck's dad taught her was recognized by Saul and Ellen, and Hera had unwittingly (?) drawn the musical notes for Starbuck. Obviously, it will soon be discovered that Starbuck's dad was none other than the recently revealed Cylon Model #7, Daniel. The bigger question: Is there a Daniel model alive somewhere, waiting for his moment to bring salvation?

So how did Hera know those notes? Was it some kind of downloaded Cylon mass consciousness memory thing that somehow passed from Daniel to Athena, Hera's mom? Is there a greater significance to that particular song? Music was used earlier to trigger 4 of the Final 5 into action (and how that was planned has yet to be explained). Reminds me of how certain musical notes are supposed to resonate with each point in the chakra system.

And if Starbuck is indeed the first half-breed Cylon/human, does she have an as-yet-unexplained destiny, just like little Hera?

I'm SURE the writers can explain all this in just 3 frakkin' episodes!

"Battlestar Galactica's" Jamie Bamber Bares It All for Bears

Not that Apollo needs an excuse to get naked, but he's certainly chosen a worthy cause.

Via Towleroad: Battlestar Galactica's Jamie Bamber goes bare for bears in the latest ad for PETA, meant to help save black bears who die for their fur. Canadian Black Bears are apparently used to make the fur caps for the Queen's Guard.

Says Bamber: "The obvious alternative is to make caps out of faux fur. You know, use synthetic materials to avoid killing a beautiful animal. They're not to keep warm. It's not particularly freezing outside Buckingham Palace. You could wear something else. And you could certainly wear faux fur."

Yay Jamie, and thanks for speaking up!

"Battlestar Galactica's" Jamie Bamber Bares It All for Bears

Not that Apollo needs an excuse to get naked, but he's certainly chosen a worthy cause.

Via Towleroad: Battlestar Galactica's Jamie Bamber goes bare for bears in the latest ad for PETA, meant to help save black bears who die for their fur. Canadian Black Bears are apparently used to make the fur caps for the Queen's Guard.

Says Bamber: "The obvious alternative is to make caps out of faux fur. You know, use synthetic materials to avoid killing a beautiful animal. They're not to keep warm. It's not particularly freezing outside Buckingham Palace. You could wear something else. And you could certainly wear faux fur."

Yay Jamie, and thanks for speaking up!

"Battlestar Galactica": The Saddest Episode Ever!

Did you have your tissues handy? OMG, this was so frakkin' sad! Poor Caprica, who's wanted a child since the dang series began (or some version of her anyway), finally gets pregnant--and then the poor baby dies while still in the womb all while Tigh is declaring his undying love!

Tragic!

And it seems like it was all due to Ellen's presence since Caprica's problems started when she stepped onto "Galactica." Or maybe it had something to do with Anders being in a coma? Or maybe it was because Caprica had to put the smack down on those bigots in the food line? Who the frak knows--with BSG, there's always so many connections and hints and winks. 'Course, I'm putting my money on some bad mojo from little Hera--she wants her spot back as Promised Child of the Cylon Race, don't ya know.

Best line? Tigh saying, "Grandpa was a power sander!"

And hooray, the Six in Gaius' head is back! Dunno if it's the writing on these characters or the chemistry between the actors, but whenever these 2 get together, BSG is magically funny and diabolical all at once.

I thought this episode was great but, really, are we supposed to believe these conflicted, juvenile, petty Final 5 Cylons are the salvation of anyone or anything? It was all so ... well, Television Without Pity compares it to "Gossip Girl" (which I don't watch), and here's a link to the funny.

And is it true there are only 4 episodes left? I need a drink!

"Battlestar Galactica": The Saddest Episode Ever!

Did you have your tissues handy? OMG, this was so frakkin' sad! Poor Caprica, who's wanted a child since the dang series began (or some version of her anyway), finally gets pregnant--and then the poor baby dies while still in the womb all while Tigh is declaring his undying love!

Tragic!

And it seems like it was all due to Ellen's presence since Caprica's problems started when she stepped onto "Galactica." Or maybe it had something to do with Anders being in a coma? Or maybe it was because Caprica had to put the smack down on those bigots in the food line? Who the frak knows--with BSG, there's always so many connections and hints and winks. 'Course, I'm putting my money on some bad mojo from little Hera--she wants her spot back as Promised Child of the Cylon Race, don't ya know.

Best line? Tigh saying, "Grandpa was a power sander!"

And hooray, the Six in Gaius' head is back! Dunno if it's the writing on these characters or the chemistry between the actors, but whenever these 2 get together, BSG is magically funny and diabolical all at once.

I thought this episode was great but, really, are we supposed to believe these conflicted, juvenile, petty Final 5 Cylons are the salvation of anyone or anything? It was all so ... well, Television Without Pity compares it to "Gossip Girl" (which I don't watch), and here's a link to the funny.

And is it true there are only 4 episodes left? I need a drink!

Catching Up on "Battlestar Galactica" Revelations

Thanks the gods we're finally getting some answers! Of course, they came spewing out so fast and furious--and without visuals--that it was hard to keep track.

First, I LOVE that Ellen Tigh is back. I always liked her character and originally thought it was shitty writing that caused her demise. But she's back and better than ever--Mother Superior to the Cylons, if you will.

What I don't like (at least, right now):
Come on, a missing Cylon skin-job that we didn't know about named Daniel? Really? The brains behind Galactica: Variants isn't too happy, and I agree. It's lame to introduce a mysterious character that's never even been hinted at now at the very end to help explain everything! It's just too convenient and lazy.

I'm also not too keen on Cavil essentially being the bad seed, the bitter first-born son with mommy/daddy issues who is out to prove he's someone. Been there, read that. On one hand, how human for a machine to feel this way; how ironic, especially for one that yearns to be the perfect machine.

But then it is interesting, I'll admit. Cavil's always been a pleasure to hate, and now we have more reason! The folks over at Television Without Pity wrap it up so nicely. Cavil has destroyed 12 planets, erased the memory of the Cylon creators from the minds of his brothers and sisters, captured and wiped the Final 5 only to place them in the nuclear Holocaust, tried to wipe out all religion as well as knowledge of the Final 5, gouged out his daddy's eye, had sex with his mama--got it? Boy, is he fucked up!

Strangely, it all works! But I'm not really in favor of giant soap operas set in space, which is essentially what "Star Wars" turned out to be in the end.

But for what it's worth, TWP has an interesting theory about Starbuck, now that this mysterious Daniel has been introduced (or will be soon). Ellen mentions Daniel was a painter. Guess who's our other resident artiste? Starbuck! Remember her painting all those whorls and nebulas? So maybe before all the copies of Daniel were poisoned and killed, at least one had sex with a lovely blonde female human--Starbuck's mom (pictured)! Therefore all the "you're special, Kara" blubber we've been hearing for so long.

This would explain how she could die and then show up again--with all her memories intact. She's the first Cylon/human offspring! Which kinda makes Hera an also-ran. Sorry, sweetie.

Will love win in the end?
Speaking of Hera and her own mommy, the Sharons. We see that Boomer escapes the base ship with Ellen. Which could mean Boomer will be reunited with Tyrol at long last. Which may be aw-shucks-sweet since they're both Cylons now and can finally be in love! Now that would make me really happy. After all, Boomer's life has sucked recently as has Tyrol's, so it would help the show come a big full circle to have those 2 back together for the finale!

What do you think?

Catching Up on "Battlestar Galactica" Revelations

Thanks the gods we're finally getting some answers! Of course, they came spewing out so fast and furious--and without visuals--that it was hard to keep track.

First, I LOVE that Ellen Tigh is back. I always liked her character and originally thought it was shitty writing that caused her demise. But she's back and better than ever--Mother Superior to the Cylons, if you will.

What I don't like (at least, right now):
Come on, a missing Cylon skin-job that we didn't know about named Daniel? Really? The brains behind Galactica: Variants isn't too happy, and I agree. It's lame to introduce a mysterious character that's never even been hinted at now at the very end to help explain everything! It's just too convenient and lazy.

I'm also not too keen on Cavil essentially being the bad seed, the bitter first-born son with mommy/daddy issues who is out to prove he's someone. Been there, read that. On one hand, how human for a machine to feel this way; how ironic, especially for one that yearns to be the perfect machine.

But then it is interesting, I'll admit. Cavil's always been a pleasure to hate, and now we have more reason! The folks over at Television Without Pity wrap it up so nicely. Cavil has destroyed 12 planets, erased the memory of the Cylon creators from the minds of his brothers and sisters, captured and wiped the Final 5 only to place them in the nuclear Holocaust, tried to wipe out all religion as well as knowledge of the Final 5, gouged out his daddy's eye, had sex with his mama--got it? Boy, is he fucked up!

Strangely, it all works! But I'm not really in favor of giant soap operas set in space, which is essentially what "Star Wars" turned out to be in the end.

But for what it's worth, TWP has an interesting theory about Starbuck, now that this mysterious Daniel has been introduced (or will be soon). Ellen mentions Daniel was a painter. Guess who's our other resident artiste? Starbuck! Remember her painting all those whorls and nebulas? So maybe before all the copies of Daniel were poisoned and killed, at least one had sex with a lovely blonde female human--Starbuck's mom (pictured)! Therefore all the "you're special, Kara" blubber we've been hearing for so long.

This would explain how she could die and then show up again--with all her memories intact. She's the first Cylon/human offspring! Which kinda makes Hera an also-ran. Sorry, sweetie.

Will love win in the end?
Speaking of Hera and her own mommy, the Sharons. We see that Boomer escapes the base ship with Ellen. Which could mean Boomer will be reunited with Tyrol at long last. Which may be aw-shucks-sweet since they're both Cylons now and can finally be in love! Now that would make me really happy. After all, Boomer's life has sucked recently as has Tyrol's, so it would help the show come a big full circle to have those 2 back together for the finale!

What do you think?