5 YEAR BLOGGIVERSARY! -or-The "BEST OF" vol 5: 2012-2013

---

WELCOME to a VERY SPECIAL POST!

With limited time (and zero talent), I’ve somehow managed to make it to FIVE YEARS of producing a fair-to-middling amount of "content" (all of varying quality) for this blog!

(This, on top of the many years - since 1997 - of my being an omni-present commenter/ know-it-all loudmouth on others’ blogs, message boards and random street corners.)  

So, now, in the vein of anniversary episodes of various television shows or GIANT-SIZED ANNUALS of old, I would, once again, produce a “best of” post - thus revisiting a few of the "high-points" of this past year's blog-post entries.

Disclaimer: What might constitute "High-Points" may differ from person to person. I'm sure we can ALL agree that when the average content level is a mere "meh", anything above snore-inducing is a "high-point".

OK, seriously...
Well... seeing as how I began my official blogging on one random October day in 2008, any semblance of a calendar-year can be tossed right out the window. So, we will focus on what I blogged from OCTOBER 11, 2012 to OCTOBER 11, 2013.

Feel free to use this opportunity to peruse some of these old posts - whether you have read them already or not, there is actually some really good stuff in here.

Let's see:

--- 

As a (primarily) DOCTOR STRANGE blog, I wrote several posts detailing the many aspects of his origin, history and subsequent treatment by Marvel – for good – or (sometimes, unfortunately) ill.

And since this is my 5th bloggiversary, let's begin with a tribute to the 50th Anniversary of the character.

- 50 YEARS of DOCTOR STRANGE - [HERE]

And to keep the fun in a more... current timeframe:

- DOCTOR STRANGE - the 1st MARVEL NOW Comic - [HERE]

And what could be more fun than battling against death itself? Alright, so it's NOT fun, but unlike most heroes, Dr. Strange has fought against the actual embodiment of Death several times.

- ... TO THE DEATH - [HERE]

Not that WE as mortals don't also do so (at least once), but it should be known that many times, when we do, Doctor Strange is there fighting with and for us.

- 12/12/12: IF THIS BE DOOMSDAY - [HERE]
- 12/21/2012: IF THIS BE DOOMSDAY (Revisited): Weep for the Soul of Man- [HERE]

Although, as a blog that ALSO shows love to a few other heroes, my "Founding Fathers" (ROM; Spaceknight, MAN-THING and DR. STRANGE), I would be remiss if I didn't highlight when all 3 of them helped us from fiery death from the sky:

- ASTEROID 2012 DA14 - Armageddon Outta Here! -or- Kiss Your Asteroid Goodbye! - [HERE]

While some discussions were about those who stand by the Master of the Mystic Arts, those who help him BE who he is.

- (ANCIENT ONE) ...MORE THAN A FATHER - [HERE]
- (WONG) LABOR DAY: MASTER and SERVANT - [HERE]

Or an entry (the first of a new series) looking at the foes who also do so, yet from an... inverted perspective.

- When Black Smoke Turns White, is Then Forged a SILVER DAGGER - [HERE]

---

There were also other articles and entries to long-running series, as well as revisits to previous discussions.

- STRANGE CLOTHES Make the Man... STRANGE (Revisited) - [HERE]
- STRANGE CLOTHES Make the Man... STRANGE (Revisited - REDUX) - [HERE]

After a two-year dry-spell, there was a return to a titillating, long-running favorite series, which saw two entries this year!
*(While not necessarily N.S.F.W., I'd probably wait til you got home to open these next two links)

- CLEA LOVES SEX: Ménage à Trois x3 - Three Three-Ways to Sunday - [HERE]

- CLEA LOVES SEX: Mother’s Day MILF Special Edition- UMAR LOVES SEX- [HERE]

---

Interested in collectibles and comic swag? Sure! In fact, that was the main reason for my even starting this blog in the first place! We saw a return to my blogging about my collection this past year, and as such, there were a few nifty entries.

Several such entries were about various forms of Dr. Strange comic-themed apparel, which are a part of a long-running series of such posts (links to which can be found within the Supplemental Entries).

- MYSTIC GARB (Supplemental Entry #5) : GRAIL ITEM - [HERE]
- MYSTIC GARB (Supplemental Entry #6) : CUSTOM CONJUROR's CAP - [HERE]
- MYSTIC GARB (Supplemental Entry #7) : FCBD INFINITY shirt & poster - [HERE]


and even begun a new sub-series of the MYSTIC GARB series; ARTIFACTS of FLAIR...

- MYSTIC GARB: ARTIFACTS of FLAIR - Part 1: PATCHES of POWER - [HERE]
- MYSTIC GARB: ARTIFACTS of FLAIR - Part 2: BUTTONS & PINS - [HERE]

- MYSTIC GARB: ARTIFACTS of FLAIR - Part 3: AMULETS & MEDALLIONS - [HERE]

- MYSTIC GARB: ARTIFACTS of FLAIR - Part 3a: EYE of AGAMOTTO - [HERE]

- MYSTIC GARB: ARTIFACTS of FLAIR - Part 4: MAGIC RINGS - [HERE]

Along with some of the FLAIR entries, here is another One-of-A-Kind item which also features a glimpse within my Sanctum:

- DR. STRANGE FRISBEE - [HERE]

While not quite 1-of-a-Kind, this Strange 2-part entry of official Doctor Strange swag from the U.S. GOVERNMENT feature UBER-RARE items:

- Part 1: MASTER of the MINTED ARTS; DR. STRANGE SILVER COIN– [HERE]

- Part 2: The POSTMAN Always BLOGS TWICE – [HERE]


I am elated that I have resumed cataloging entries in my long-running (and sadly long-absent) series of Action Figures, Statues and assorted "IDOL PURSUITS" (get it? the Pursuit of IDOLS? Idols are statues, and... oh heck... just check them out)...

IDOL PURSUITS SERIES ENTRIES:
- IDOL PURSUITS RECAP & "TOYS NIGHT OUT" - [HERE]
- MASTER of the PLASTIC ARTS # 5 : Dr. STRANGE "Spider-Wars" figures- [HERE]
- SPECIAL EDITION: DR. STRANGE BOARD GAME - PRINT out & PLAY- [HERE]

That Dr. Strange Board Game entry was but one of several posts wherein I gave "GIFTS" of a sort to my readers.

Here are two more entries wherein I give swag to YOU:

- BIRTHDAY GIF(ts) from ME to YOU - [HERE]
- SECRET GIFTS from the SANCTUM SANCTORUM (from ME to YOU) - [HERE]

And lastly in the SWAG category, let’s not forget my New Year's Day addition to my long-running - MARVEL CALENDARS SERIES – [HERE]

---

And speaking of “New Year’s Day”, while not quite as extensive (or always as serious) as my essays, there are also a bunch of HOLIDAY POSTS wherein I might display a little razzle-dazzle (or a facsimile thereof) for your general enjoyment. (I won’t list them all, but will showcase the best of them here)!

- (Thanksgiving) – DO's & DONT's for a HAPPY THANKSGIVING - [HERE]
- (Christmas) – GIFTS FROM CHRISTMAS PAST! - [HERE]

- (St. Valentine’s) – DOCTOR LOVE; Master of the Mystic HEARTS - [HERE]

- (Earth Day/Arbor Day: Green Week)  – Be GREEN, Like MAN-THING - [HERE]

- (Independence Day) – HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA, Thanks to DR. STRANGE [HERE]

---

Of course, SOME comic-blog readers actually like to read about... oh, I dunno... comics!
So, here are some reviews:

- DEFENDERS # 12 - ...and THEN...and THEN... The IMPOSSIBLE END - [HERE]

- NEW AVENGERS v2 # 31 : END TIMES Part 1 - [HERE]

- NEW AVENGERS v2 # 32 : END TIMES Part 2 - [HERE]

- NEW AVENGERS v2 # 33 : END TIMES Part 3 - [HERE]

- NEW AVENGERS v2 # 34 : END TIMES Part 4 - [HERE]

---

And, of course, we here at the Sanctum Sanctorum Comix blog also have our own "Awards Show", the "SANCTUM AWARDS".

I present "Sancty's" to deserving "Best of" and Worst of" categories of the previous years’ releases (so the Sancty post of 2013 is for 2012 releases).
Sometimes this is the only place where I may discuss certain titles, storylines or collectible products.
Other times, I am revisiting older posts with my votes.
Either way, a thorough overview of the year's official product output is reviewed.
- The 5th ANNUAL SANCTUM AWARDS - can be found - [HERE] 

---

And lastly, submitted for your approval are three posts featuring more intimate looks at the INNER SANCTUM...

- MEET MacGOOT: SENTRY of the SANCTUM - [HERE]

- PUTTING on a NEW FACE: MEN CALL HIM... DORKTER STRANGE - [HERE]

The last (but not least) being an illustration that was a commission which I drew for a reader/fan/friend.

- DRAWING on the MYSTIC ARTS - [HERE]

---

I would be remiss if I didn't thank the many friends, fans, readers, followers, fellow-bloggers and wonderful souls out there who have helped, inspired, cajoled, cudgeled and commented. Thank You all!

And creators without whom this blog would be about my collection of rare molds, spores and fungus':

- 
- Steve Ditko -

- Jack Kirby -

- Stan Lee -

- Steve Englehart -
- Gene Colan -

- Marshall Rogers -

- J.M. DeMatteis -
- Steve Gerber -

- Dan Green -

- Michael Golden -

- Paul Smith -

- Mike Ploog -

- Dan Adkins -
- Steve Rude -
- Bill Everett - 
- John Byrne -

- Peter Gillis -
-Roger Stern -

- Frank Brunner -

- Kevin Nowlan -
- Chris Warner -
- P. Craig Russell -

- Gerry Conway - 
- Sandy Plunkett -
- Alan Davis –

- Jeff Parker -
- Mike Allred -
- Mark Buckingham -
- Howard Chaykin -
- Kurt Busiek -
- Mike Weiringo -
- Al Milgrom -
- Rudy Nebres -
- Tom Sutton -
- Steve Mellor -

- Ian Akin and Brian Garvey -

- Sal Buscema -

- Bill Mantlo -

and many, many, MANY more!

And that should do it.
Sure, there are more blog entries - but not all of them are merit-worthy, or while they may be good, are just silly hit-and-run style posts.
Some are to showcase new products or comics that were to be released, and others are tongue-in-cheek bits of whimsy, or tips of the hat to various holidays. 
I have a lot like that - some quick Photoshop, an Action figure or comic scan and what passes for "wit" = a quick blog post.

But if you like that sort of thing, open up the blog-history drop down lists and just jump around.

I'll catch you all in a few.  I have lots more planned for YEAR 6!

Join me, wont you?

BIRTHDAY GIFTS... from ME to YOU! - From the PAST - for the FUTURE!

---

It’s my birthday once again (dang, this past year went fast) and I thought I’d take the opportunity to present some gifts – TO YOU, my readers (and assorted drifters on the interwebs)! I’ve done this sort of thing before; gifting assorted electronic virtual-goodness from within blog entries (there was the animated gifs of characters [HERE], the audio play of Doctor Strange vs Nightmare (from a 1990’s phone card) [HERE], another audio-play of Dr. Strange and the Defenders for the Hulk’s birthday party [HERE] (and maybe one or two others).

Well, in those instances, the "products" didn’t originate from me. I was merely passing on “Strange” rarities that I knew no one would have access to, unless they were - like me - crazy, obsessive/compulsive, completist, collector-monkeys. However, this time, I will share some electronic creations of my own!

Now, before I shower you with digital riches, like an old man spinning yarns of yesteryears gone by to any who’ll listen, please allow me the indulgence of telling a bit of a story…

---

Waaaay back when I first started using a computer in my daily life (no longer just using one to play video games [like DOOM and/or DESCENT] and type up stupid banners), I taught myself how to make animated gifs, animated cursors and animated icons for my old PC.

Well, since becoming a MAC guy, I fell out of the practice and only every now and again tell myself that "one day, when I have time, I'll make some more cool animated cursors and stuff – including some for the Mac".

OK, so that hasn’t happened. Not that I can’t, the software keeps progressing and becoming easier while at the same time more flashy and professional-looking. But those who have been following this blog for any length of time know – time is not my friend. I’m always full up with daily projects, freelance artwork, life emergencies and assorted shenanigans – all on top of my day job.

Sadly, even when THESE items were created, things were only slightly better and while I had time for smaller projects like these (and others which I will share VERY soon) I lacked the time for other, grander projects.

For instance: I was EXTREMELY close to being the FIRST Doctor Strange blogger – heck, maybe one of the first COMICS bloggers – having arranged to purchase domain names and seeking out the best deals for internet web-hosting, circa 1997. I had everything ready – but time (as I was newly married, relocated and at a new job – and with a crappy dial-up connection).

(The good thing; within 3 years, the esteemed NeilAlieN would start his own blog and at the same time I was content to pontificating heavily on assorted message boards in my off hours.)

Now, before you accuse me of being some senile old codger, whose forgotten the point of his tale (ya, pesky kids!), the reason I am telling that little tangential aside is that these items that I am presenting now were designed FOR that aborted website.

Back in the nascent days of the internet, it wasn’t unknown to come across a website that had its own cursors which would appear in the place of your own standard “arrow-pointer” cursor. Usually it was some design scheme that had some kind of theme with the site, and so… since mine was to be SANCTUM SANCTORUM COMIX (yeah, the name has always been the same – it was also supposed to be the name of the comic shoppe that I was going to open at the same time [but that’s another story])… obviously, the cursors and icons were to be Doctor Strange related.

And so… without any further ado (or rambling)…

---

DOCTOR STRANGE Cursor Pointers!

Featuring:
- Doctor Strange (cursor)
- The Eye of Agamotto (animated cursor)
- Window Sigil (cursor)

*BONUS*
- Man-Thing (animated cursor)
- I was also, at that time, about to work on an Agamotto (caterpillar form) icon, but only managed to complete his Magic Hookah (animated cursor) which I’ll include as a bonus (for all the ‘heads’ out there)!

(Note: these images & animations are merely examples, and are enlarged for better viewing. The actual pointers are... "pointer-sized".)

Let DOCTOR STRANGE point the way around your computer!

Let the EYE of AGAMOTTO peer into the darkest corners of your harddrive!

Pass through the WINDOW SIGIL to Web-Dimensions Beyond!

Let MAN-THING... er... kinda freak you out a little!

Let AGAMOTTO's Hookah...ah... uh... what was I talking about?

Nacho's and Mocha? Yum!

DOWNLOAD the ZIP FILE  with the Icons in it [HERE] 

There are others (additional tweaked designs and icons) but it’s easier and less confusing if I just batch the basics. (For instance, I used to have icons of the Man-Thing for my Recycle Bin, [when he was “full” he’d turn black and his eyes would glow] and others for other purposes; like glowing, star-filled Window Icons - and some half-finished, like Doc's hand in magic-finger pose for a Link Selection pointer]… but these are fine for now, otherwise the README file would be a BOOK.)

These were created for a system using Windows’95 and still work on a new system using Windows7, so you shouldn’t have a problem.

Download the file and follow the “READ ME” instructions for proper installation.
(Sorry Mac folks… these were designed for PCs. As far as I know, they won’t work on a Mac. I haven’t taken time to play with them, but if you know a way to do so, Let ME Know and not only will I pass it on but I’ll be able to toss these on my Mac as well.)

BUT FIRST... DOWNLOAD the ZIP FILE  with the Icons in it [HERE]

I’ll also paste the README info here as well.

---

README

Attached are cursors I whipped up back in 1997

- First, save this file somewhere you'll remember.
(Probably best to go to C: Windows and place it there next to the “Cursor” folder.)

- THEN...go to your "START" button and go to your "CONTROL PANEL", then choose "MOUSE", then "POINTERS".

- You'll see a scrolling list of cursors and their descriptions. We're essentially only concerned with a few: "normal select", "working in background", "busy" and "link select" pointers.

- Each cursor should be used for a different purpose.
(The DOCTOR STRANGE HEAD is the "normal" pointer / The "OPEN" EYE OF AGAMOTTO is the "working in background" pointer & the "CLOSED" EYE OF AGAMOTTO is "busy" pointer. When you see this, the computer is busy and you have to wait until you see the DOC-HEAD to do anything. - It's like the hourglass cursor was...only better! Because when the computer goes from working to busy the eye will appear to BLINK! And I use the “Window” sigil for my “link select” pointer to take the place of the ‘hand’, so that the Window will lead me to other internet dimensions.)

*The Man-Thing images can also be used as "working in background" and "busy" so that the regular Man-Thing is "working" and the black Manny with glowing eyes is "busy".
Or... the Hookah can be used the same way. "Hookah1" is "working" and "Hookah2" is "busy" - so that when it blinks from one to the other looks like it's being used.

OK?

- Then hit BROWSE.

- Find where you put this file.

- Select the appropriate cursor to match the purpose of the one you're replacing.

- Click Apply

- You should probably look near the top of the panel for a way to SAVE AS – it might be “scheme” (and name it something different - so you don't lose your settings - I suggest something "strange".)

That's it!

LMK if you can or can not make it work.
(These were designed using Windows'95 at the time and they still work on a system now using Windows7.)

Enjoy!
~P~

ps: just a note: when using the DOC pointer/cursor you must remember that the upper LEFT side is the default pointer area. Just look at the two "points" on his cowl. The one on the LEFT of the screen is where it "points".
As an added bit of nerdity, you can select to have your cursors leave “trails” (you can select this is “pointer options”). So it looks like Doc is casting the Illusions of Ikonn to make duplicates of himself, which quickly blink out of existence.
Yes. I’m nerdy.

All icons/cursors/artwork/designs copyright 1997-2013 ~P~ / PTOR / SanctumSanctorumComix / MidnightImages / CrazyDiamondEntertainment.

Doctor Strange copyright Marvel Entertainment..

---

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have an Ice-Box Cake to enjoy! You can't digitize that!

4 YEAR BLOGGIVERSARY! -or-The "BEST OF" vol 4: 2011-2012

Hello, my Dear readers!

Somehow, despite a very tough and lean year, I’ve managed to make it to 4 YEARS of producing a fair-to-middling amount of "content" (all of varying quality) for this blog!

(This, on top of the many years - since 1997 - of my being an omni-present commenter/ know-it-all loudmouth on others’ blogs, message boards and random street corners.)  

So, once again, in the vein of anniversary episodes of various television shows or GIANT-SIZED ANNUALS of old, I would, once again, produce a “best of” post - thus revisiting a few of the "high-points" of this past year's blog-post entries.

Disclaimer: What might constitute "High-Points" may differ from person to person. I'm sure we can ALL agree that when the average content level is a mere "meh", anything above snore-inducing is a "high-point".

OK, seriously...
Well... seeing as how I began my official blogging on one random October day, four years ago, any semblance of a calendar-year can be tossed right out the window. So, we will focus on what I blogged from OCTOBER 11, 2011 to OCTOBER 11, 2012.

Feel free to use this opportunity to peruse some of these old posts - whether you have read them already or not, there is actually some really good stuff in here.

Let's see:

--- 

As a (primarily) DOCTOR STRANGE blog, I wrote several intensive essays detailing the many aspects of his origin and subsequent treatment by Marvel – for good – or (more usually) ill.

“FIVE FINGERS OF DEATH FOR DOCTOR STRANGE”

This series examined the biggest, most oft-repeated, erroneous memes that Marvel perpetuates in their handling of Doctor Strange.

(Prelude to Death) – [HERE]

Death # 1 – “Dr. Strange is the ‘Chosen One’.” – [HERE]

Death # 2 – “Dr. Strange is an alcoholic.” – [HERE]

Death # 3 – “Dr. Strange is a modern man.” – [HERE]

Death # 4 – “Dr. Strange has ‘magic powers’.” – [HERE]

Death # 5 – “Dr. Strange, no longer ‘Sorcerer Supreme’ is now the ‘sorcerer substandard’.” – [HERE]

I even tossed in a BONUS 6^th entry: “The 6-FINGERED HAND - of EVIL” – which focused on Marvel’s poor treatment of Doc’s foes – [HERE]

---

There were also other articles and entries to both; long-running series, as well as stand-alone featurettes.

An updated entry, I posted Part 7 (with links to all the previous entries therein) in the “HOUSING CRISIS” series, which was an insanely intensive look into the many times that the Sanctum Sanctorum of Doctor Strange was destroyed and rebuilt – [HERE]

Next is an add-on entry to the intensive look at all of the romantic interests in the life of Stephen Strange (with a link to the main article included therein) – [HERE]

Not all entries were re-visitations of long-running series. I also had some 1-shot posts.

Like this (thankfully) one-time NSFW reader contest – [HERE]

---

Interested in collectibles and comic swag? Sure! In fact, that was the main reason for my even starting this blog in the first place! While, sadly, I did not blog all that much about my collection this past year, there were a few nifty entries.

On the subject of comic-themed swag, I (less than) humbly launched my own line of shirts with these posts announcing my first wave of products with my all-original artwork and designs – [HERE]

A bunch of new designs HAVE been worked up but have yet to be officially announced. Look for those soon.

Here’s a post featuring POSTERS and such “GRAVEN IMAGES” – [HERE]

And a truly Strange 2-part entry featuring stuff from the “Marvel Collector’s Club” :

Part 1 (an Audio Play) – [HERE]

Part 2 (stickers, posters, books, cards, Oh MY!) – [HERE]

Let’s not forget my New Year's Day additions to my long-running MARVEL CALENDARS SERIES – [HERE]

---

And speaking of “New Year’s Day”, while not quite as extensive (or always as serious) as my essays, there are also a bunch of HOLIDAY POSTS wherein I might display a little razzle-dazzle (or a facsimile thereof) for your general enjoyment. (I won’t list them all, but will showcase the best of them here)!

(Christmas) – A TREASURY-SIZED CHRISTMAS! - [HERE]

(New Year’s) - DR STRANGE: THE MOST INTERESTING MAN ON THE WORLD - [HERE]

(St. Valentine’s) – MYSTERY DATE - [HERE]

(Ash Wednesday) ASHES TO ASHES - [HERE]

(Easter) MYSTIC MESSIAH- [HERE]

(Earth Day) SAVE THE EARTH - [HERE]

(heck… even INCOME TAX DAY!) - [HERE]

---

Of course, SOME comic-blog readers actually like to read about... oh, I dunno... comics!
So, here are some crazy, in-depth reviews:

DEFENDERS ( POINT ONE # 1) prelude - [HERE]

DEFENDERS Teaser- Preview of # 1 - [HERE]

IMPROPER FRACTION (taking a dim view of Matt Fraction's interpretation of Doc as a guy who sleeps with his students and more wrong-minded views from his Defenders interviews) - [HERE]

DEFENDERS Issue # 1 - [HERE]

DEFENDERS Issue # 2 - [HERE]

DEFENDERS Issue # 3 - [HERE]

DEFENDERS Issue # 4 - [HERE]

DOCTOR STRANGE: SEASON ONE original graphic novel by Greg Pak and Emma Rios - [HERE]

I take great pride in the depth, fairness and overall quality of my reviews. However, lest anyone think that all of my reviews are negative (or “mean”), let me assure you that is far from the case.

In year’s past I have written GLOWING reviews of some current issues of comics (just ask Jeff Parker or Kieron Gillen), and this past year was not without a positive review of its own (it’s just that the issue in question was quite a bit more… vintage).

RETRO-REVIEW:

“NOBODY EXPECTS THE SPANISH INQUISITION” (review of Doctor Strange Master of the Mystic Arts # 52 by Roger Stern and Marshal Rogers) - [HERE]

---

And, of course, we here at the Sanctum Sanctorum Comix blog also have our own "Awards Show", the "SANCTUM AWARDS".

I present "Sancty's" to deserving "Best of" and Worst of" categories of the previous years’ releases (so the 2012 Sancty’s are for 2011 releases).
Sometimes this is the only place where I may discuss certain titles, storylines or collectible products.
Other times, I am revisiting older posts with my votes.
Either way, a thorough overview of the year's official product output is reviewed.
The 2011  SANCTUM AWARDS - can be found - [HERE] 

---

And lastly, I submitted for your approval a commission illustration that I drew for a reader/fan/friend with an open invitation for anyone else who may be interested in requesting artwork for themselves…

COMMISSIONS - [HERE]

---

I would be remiss if I didn't thank the many friends, fans, readers, followers, fellow-bloggers and wonderful souls out there who have helped, inspired, cajoled, cudgeled and commented. Thank You all!

And creators without whom this blog would be about my collection of rare molds, spores and fungus':

- 
- Steve Ditko -

- Jack Kirby -

- Stan Lee -

- Steve Englehart -
- Gene Colan -

- Marshall Rogers -

- J.M. DeMatteis -
- Steve Gerber -

- Dan Green -

- Michael Golden -

- Paul Smith -

- Mike Ploog -

- Dan Adkins -
- Steve Rude -
- Bill Everett - 
- John Byrne -

- Peter Gillis -
-Roger Stern -

- Frank Brunner -

- Kevin Nowlan -
- Chris Warner -
- P. Craig Russell -

- Gerry Conway - 
- Sandy Plunkett -
- Alan Davis –

- Jeff Parker -
- Mike Allred -
- Mark Buckingham -
- Howard Chaykin -
- Kurt Busiek -
- Mike Weiringo -
- Al Milgrom -
- Rudy Nebres -
- Tom Sutton -
- Steve Mellor -

- Ian Akin and Brian Garvey -

- Sal Buscema -

- Bill Mantlo -

and many, many, MANY more!

And that should do it.
Sure, there are a lot more entries - but not all of them are merit-worthy, or while they may be good, are just silly hit-and-run style posts.
Some are to showcase new products or comics that were to be released, and others are tongue-in-cheek bits of whimsy, or tips of the hat to various holidays. 
I have a lot like that - some quick Photoshop, an Action figure or comic scan and what passes for "wit" = a quick blog post.

But if you like that sort of thing, open up the blog-history drop down lists and just jump around.

I'll catch you all in a few.
Provided we don’t all succumb to the Mayan doomsday (or the economic equivalent), and I'm still able to do so, I have lots more planned for YEAR 5!

Join me, wont you?

STRANGE (BIRTH)DAYS HAVE FOUND US

Yup... it's my birthday (again?!?) and while I don't have the available time to put into composing one of my usual extended-subject birthday posts (like this ROM Spaceknight birthday post [HERE] or this ROM revisited post [HERE] or this Philosophy of my Love of Comics post [HERE]), I do have this: A personal Birthday Surprise from the prime subject of this blog; Doctor Stephen Strange!

Those better not be "trick" candles where I keep blowing them out and they constantly reignite...

A slightly re-edited page from:

UNCANNY ORIGINS # 12 (1997)

Len Wein (writer) and Marc Campos (art)

Yes, I slightly re-edited the text (and an image) from the page... but hey, how many comics do you think there are with Doctor Strange whipping out a three-tier birthday cake from within the folds of his cloak of levitation?!

I may have some goodies for YOU - dear readers - in a day or so... (I'd have included it/them in this post, but it/they really deserves its/ their own post(s) ) consider it a Birthday Gift from ME to you.

But, until then... I'll just mellow out on my day to the words of Jim Morrison:

Strange days have found us
And through their strange hours
We linger alone
Bodies confused
Memories misused
As we run from the day

To a strange night of stone

3 YEAR BLOGGIVERSARY! -or-The "BEST OF" vol 3: 2010-2011

 Hey, Hey!  

I'm not sure quite how, but after a very lean and difficult year, somehow (yesterday) I managed to make it to 3 years of producing a fair-to-middling amount of "content" (all of varying quality) for this blog!
(This, on top of the prior decade or so of my merely being an omni-present commenter/ know-it-all loudmouth on others blogs, message boards and random street corners.)  What I’m saying here is, obviously, I have no other life. This is my home and you are my people. Welcome!

So, I thought, in the vein of anniversary episodes of various television shows, I would, once again, produce a “best of” post - thus revisiting a few of the "high-points" of this past year's blog-post entries.
Disclaimer: What might constitute "High-Points" may differ from person to person. I'm sure we can ALL agree that when the average content level is a mere "meh", anything above snore-inducing is a "high-point".

Who knows how to market himself? This guy!

OK, seriously...
Well... seeing as how I began my blogging on a whim one October day, three years ago, any semblance of a calendar-year can be tossed right out the window. So, we will focus on what I blogged from OCTOBER 11, 2010 to OCTOBER 11, 2011.

Feel free to use this opportunity to peruse some of these old posts - whether you have read them already or not, there is actually some really good stuff in here.

Let's see:

---

- How about, as a reflection upon my scant 3 years of running my own blog, we start off with a tribute to one of the most historic bloggers (especially in regards to Doctor Strange) as I reported upon the 11^th year for – and last official post of - NeilAlieN - [HERE]

---

In regards to this being, primarily, a comics blog, it seems fitting to recall that I gave an inside look into my own nature, and what comics have meant to me and how they have made me the man that I am today - [HERE]

I also wrote about how comics (and super heroes in particular) can be a great way to bridge the ground between adults and children and a fabulous way to “reach” kids on common ground – [HERE]

---

While speaking of introducing comics to new readers, in reply to a write-in query, I made a long, very informative post on the history and nature of Doctor Strange – [HERE]

---

In a similar vein, I also set up a different informative post that dealt with the immortal nature of Doctor Strange – [HERE]

---

- Interested in comic-themed apparel? T-shirts? Hats? Ties? Underpants??
Well, then THIS multi-part series is for you.

Showcasing my insane collection of comic-themed garb, with plenty of pics and histories of the items and manufacturers (and I even drop some publication knowledge in there).

While this series was actually made in the previous year (2009), I have since added to it throughout the past year as well, and as such, each of the following posts have been made “new”.

 - Either follow along in order, or jump to whichever post strikes your fancy:

MYSTIC GARB : DR. STRANGE APPAREL SERIES:

- part 1 : CAPS and TIES : [HERE]
- part 2 : SOLO APPEARANCE T-SHIRTS : [HERE]
- part 3 : TEAM-UP APPEARANCE T-SHIRTS : [HERE]
- part 4 : THE "OTHERS" / "6-DIMENSIONS" T-SHIRTS : [HERE]
- part 5 : "THE END" of GARMENTS  : [HERE]
- Supplemental Entry #1 : [HERE]
- Supplemental Entry #2 : [HERE]

- Supplemental Entry #3 : [HERE]
- Supplemental Entry #4 : [HERE]

---

- On the subject of comic-themed apparel, I (less than) humbly launched my own line of shirts with these posts announcing my first wave of products with my all-original artwork and designs.

Teaser # 1 – [HERE]

Revelation – [HERE]

And while it is technically "cheating", because this was posted a week or so after the Oct. 11th cut-off date, this is the Official launch post – [HERE]

---

- If original artwork is your lure, I presented some of my own original artwork featuring ROM; SPACEKNIGHT – which was drawn for a charity auction to raise funds for the care of the tragically incapacitated writer; Bill Mantlo!

While there are several posts showing the work in progress, the FINAL piece (which includes links to those aforementioned “in-progress” posts) was showcased [HERE]

The entire sequence can be found (in reverse order) at this link [HERE]

---

- There are also a bunch of HOLIDAY POSTS (I won’t list them all, but will showcase the best of them here)!

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL-EDITION! 2010  - DOCTOR STRANGE AUDIO PLAY - [HERE]

THANKSGIVING 2010 - The culinary tastes of Doctor Strange – [HERE]

ST. VALENTINE’S DAY 2011 – “Kiss My Giant-Sized Man-Thing” - A look at the many loves of Manny - [HERE]

EARTH DAY 2011 – An anecdote about recycling and some Defenders art – [HERE]

---

- Let’s not forget NEW YEAR’s DAY, which saw an addition to my long-running MARVEL CALENDARS SERIES – [HERE]

---

Of course, SOME comic-blog readers actually like to read about... oh, I dunno... comics!
So, here are some crazy in-depth reviews:

- TOMB OF TERROR – with MAN-THING # 1 - [HERE]
- THUNDERBOLTS # 154 – with MAN-THING & DOCTOR STRANGE - Love… Like THUNDERBOLTS Straight to My Heart – Part 1 : An Ode to Muck and Magic .  - [HERE]

- THUNDERBOLTS # 155 - with MAN-THING & DOCTOR STRANGE - Love… Like THUNDERBOLTS Straight to My Heart – Part 2 : Strange Thing… You Make My Heart Sing! You make everything…GROOVY! - [HERE]

---

- But what kind of blog would this be if some of my reviews didn't rant and rave once in awhile...mostly against Brian Bendis' treatment of Dr. Strange in the pages of New Avengers:

- EYES WITHOUT A FACE –or- Tell Me, WHO ARE YOU? – A review of New Avengers v2 # 5. - [HERE]
- EYE CARAMBA! –or- F*** YOU, IT’s MAGIC! (A VERY in-depth review of New Avengers v2 # 6 – and an overview of issues # 1-6) - [HERE]

---

- Like to watch TV and films? Like reviews of same? Then these bits of TV-related commentary may be of interest (sadly,I didn’t blog about many this year):

- Man-Thing "Appearance" on 'That 70's Show' - [HERE]
- The VENTURE BROS’ Dr. Orpheus has a cameo in the awesome music video; Shallow Gravy; “JACKET”  - [HERE]

---

- What about video games? Marvel vs Capcom 3 was released – with SHUMA GORATH, DORMAMMU as playable characters (and the advanced news of ULTIMATE Marvel vs Capcom 3 – with the addition of DOCTOR STRANGE as a playable character) and I was all over it – in multiple posts:

- I receive my Limited Collector’s Edition of MvC3 [HERE]

- More videos of Shuma Gorath in action and cameos of Doctor Strange and Man-Thing [HERE]

- Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 – Doctor Strange fighting videos and artwork [HERE]

- Breakdown of all of Doctor Strange’s UMvC3 moves (2 long videos) – [HERE]

---

- And, of course, we here at the Sanctum Sanctorum Comix blog also have our own "Awards Show", the "SANCTUM AWARDS".
I present "Sancty's" to deserving "Best of" and Worst of" categories.
Sometimes this is the only place where I may discuss certain titles, storylines or products.
Other times, I am revisiting older posts with my votes.
Either way, a thorough overview of the year's official product output is reviewed.
The 2010  SANCTUM AWARDS - can be found [HERE]

---

I would be remiss if I didn't thank the many friends, fans, readers, followers, fellow-bloggers and wonderful souls out there who have helped, inspired, cajoled, cudgeled and commented. Thank You all!

And creators without whom this blog would be about my collection of rare molds, spores and fungus':

-
- Steve Ditko -

- Jack Kirby -

- Stan Lee -

- J.M. DeMatteis -
- Steve Gerber -

- Dan Green -

- Steve Englehart -
- Gene Colan -

- Marshall Rogers -

- Michael Golden -

- Paul Smith -

- Mike Ploog -

- Dan Adkins -
- Steve Rude -
- Bill Everett -
- John Byrne -

- Peter Gillis -
-Roger Stern -

- Frank Brunner -

- Kevin Nowlan -
- Chris Warner -
- P. Craig Russell -

- Gerry Conway -
- Sandy Plunkett -
- Alan Davis –

- Jeff Parker -
- Mike Allred -
- Mark Buckingham -
- Howard Chaykin -
- Kurt Busiek -
- Mike Weiringo -
- Al Milgrom -
- Rudy Nebres -
- Tom Sutton -
- Steve Mellor -

- Ian Akin and Brian Garvey -

- Sal Buscema -

- Bill Mantlo -

and many, many, MANY more!

And that should do it.
Sure, there are a lot more entries - but not all of them are merit-worthy, or while they may be good, are just silly hit-and-run style posts.
Some are to showcase new products or comics that were to be released, and others are tongue-in-cheek bits of whimsy, or tips of the hat to various holidays.
I have a lot like that - some quick Photoshop, an Action figure or comic scan and what passes for "wit" = a quick blog post.

But if you like that sort of thing, open up the blog-history drop down lists and just jump around.

I'll catch you all in a few.
Lots more planned for YEAR 4!
Join me, wont you?

Has a Lifetime of Reading Comics Made Me a Hero... Or Merely a Decent Human Being? -or- Fredric Wertham was a "glass half-empty" kind of guy.

---

Dr. Fredric Wertham was a psychiatrist who saw (or purported that he saw), in comics and mass media, the detrimental effects that exposure to negative, violent and subjective stories and imagery had upon the minds and spirits of their consumers - especially young people. (Info on Wertham [HERE].)

In the 1950's he waged a war on comics and other types of "low-brow" media that he thought sought to corrupt the youth of America.
His book, "Seduction of the Innocent", was the bible of the fear-mongering wave of adults, who thought that their children were being led down the wrong path - a dead-end road of crime, sex and depravity.
(Info on "Seduction" [HERE])

This backlash against the comics medium not only helped to cripple many publishers (such as the horror and crime comic leader; EC) but also the putting into place a watch-guard group, a self-governing body formed by publishers themselves, who would dictate the very content that comics would be able to contain... the C.C.A. (Comics Code Authority - [HERE]).

While many adults, at that time - and even now - have similar beliefs on the subject, the Comics Code has finally - after over 50 years - been rendered null and void. But that has less to do with the debunking of Wertham's beliefs, but instead because today's social mores allow for media's open display of all of the things he feared would fracture the psyches of the kids of America.

The irony is that Wertham saw only the negative aspects of the stories and thought that they were what would resonate strongest in the minds of the young readers. Despite the fact that nearly all comic stories usually ended with the villain of the piece either being undone by an ironic twist of fate (usually a direct result of his or her evil actions) or outright vanquished by a hero.


Instead of fearing the worst of readers, why wouldn't one hope for their best aspects to be awakened by such tales?


Sure, there was a lot of gratuitous violence, gore-dripping acts of brutality, and titillating scenes of wanton women wearing naught but torn blouses whilst in bondage. Granted. There was ample room for comics to clean up their act. But, still... there was goodness to be found as well.

That brings us to the point of this post.

---

Earlier this month the Gregorian calendar once again rolled around to my birthday.
44-years on the rock.
I had decided that I would use that day to do many "right" things that I had been meaning to get to, as a way to help the day "mean" something more to me than just marking another trip around the sun.

--- 

Yes, while there is a comic-book theme in this post, it is tangential. It's not a total "personal" piece, but does deal with the effect that comics may have had on my moral make-up. It just takes a bit of pre-amble to get there. Sort of like a piece I did two years back, on my "history" as a comic collector [HERE]. And/or a similar post to this one (and a great one, at that) where I showcased one of my most deeply held philosophical passages - from a Doctor Strange comic book [HERE].

Basically, I often find myself thinking of what it takes to make it through life (or even just a day at a time) keeping true to a certain "code" of "honorable conduct".
All too often, one finds that the people who do bad things, or who merely live with little heed to the needs/wants/rights of others, seem to thrive, while those who consistently do the "right thing", tend to walk against the wind.

Watching me go out of my way for others, giving up my place in lines, stopping my car to pick up materials that may present a hazard to people or animals (as well as stopping to scoop up animals who appear to have been hit by cars, and moving them to the grounds off the roads - in case they are merely stunned and not dead) as well as other such "crazy" things (like rescuing insects and letting them all outside, or my practice of checking my driveway [about a football field in length] for salamanders or toads, and moving them to safety before I drive in or out, or the fact that I mow my lawn with a weed-whacker because it allows me to see if there are any such critters whom I need to relocate out of harm's way lest they succumb to the whirling blade of death), my friends and co-workers look at me, a bitter-sweet look on their face, and they say; "...you're a really nice guy, Pete," but then almost always end with; "...but, nice guys finish last."

Now, this post isn't about me claiming to be a saint or anything.
Far from it.
But, I refuse to try to "win" at the expense of others.

This belief system, or code of conduct, has been ingrained in me by various factors;

• A proper upbringing
• Strict religious ([Roman]Catholic) teachings
  and
• Comic books

For many years, I thought that the first two nurturing aspects were the real reason for my behavior.
Over the past few years, however, I have begun to truly question that, and I believe that it was the comic books and their heroic examples that are the root to my nature.

When pressed by life's many misfortunes, maintaining "niceness", honesty, and a good nature while within life's pie-in-the-face reward-system, I find that I tend to hold my comic-book role models in my mind's eye more often than those of a religious / golden-rule observance.

Oh, sure... I know that the 4-color heroes in my comics aren't even remotely real, and that (at least according to faith and some historical record) the figures in the Bible (and/or other religion's tenets) are (or were supposedly) real people with their real life-examples put to paper, but I am always (at least consciously at a certain level) aided in life by the role-models of  fictional "underdog" characters, who trudge on, doing the right thing, despite the slings and arrows that life arcs their way.

Why would I hold fast to the examples shown by make-believe characters rather than the millennium-old (or in the case of recent Saints; centuries or merely decade-old) examples of proper conduct? Perhaps it is the "everyman" nature of certain comic-book characters.

As lofty as it would be to try to be as good as a "Mother Theresa", not everyone is as absolutely giving and selfless. I sure know I'm not.

And yet, the super-hero alter-ego equivalents are flawed, like I am... and yet still strive to maintain a sense of right and wrong. Despite the costs to themselves.

However... and this is a valid draw... the comic heroes can at least complain or rail against the whims of the universe that sets them in such straights.
Most Saints (while they may have indeed tried to choose less noble paths) aren't generally known for their fist-shaking against the forces-that-be (since their forces-that-be tend to be God).

Also, another reason, the few times that religious figures have been shown to want to choose another path for themselves (Jonah, Paul, Peter, Moses, just a few among many) they are made, by divine intervention, to alter their path to the will of God.

Me? I like to make my choice to do the right thing while still being able to bitch about it if I want to.

But, all that said, when I am yelling at the heavens, as I mentioned, I'm not thinking of the religious or social mores for why I'm doing the right thing... no. I'm thinking about the comic book role models that seem to lead me by example.

My two primary comic-book role models? Not those you may think. Mine are...

The eternally put-upon:

Peter Parker

(not Spider-Man - as those are two different entities. I've always preferred P.P. to S-M.)

and

Richard Rory

(Born loser, good-natured guy, and friend of the Man-Thing. More on Rory [HERE].)

These guys also appeal to me, not just because of their do-goodery in the face of whatever shit-storm they are beset with, but also because of the fact that they practically live in a perpetual shit-storm.
A wind-tunnel of fate's fecal flack.
It's easy to be nice when things are going well, but to keep a smile when you're covered in crap... that takes a whole different set of muscles.

I flex those muscles on a daily basis.

Once again, it's not to say that I believe that these fictional characters are in any way "real" people.
They are, however, the implied reality of writers who, while striving to accurately portray someone of such a mild-mannered, fair-play, do-what's-right-no-matter-the-consequence archetype, that in so doing, present that template as a "real" person.

But before I delve too far into the comic-book roots of my psyche, I should continue my tale.

---

Setting out on my day's journey, I had a few things on my "to-do" list:

• Get a physical exam.
  (required for a new job for which I am vying)
  
  
• Get my car looked at by a mechanic.
  (because of a weird wobble that had recently started)
  
  
• Bring a lot of old electronics - 5 giant CRT monitors - to the salvage yard for recycling.
  (so they wouldn't end up in a land-fill to bespoil mother Earth)
   
• Go to the office supply store to recycle 25 industrial printer cartridges
  (again, to avoid aforementioned Earthly bespoiling).
  
  
• ...and some house-work that required my attentions.

Well, I did the housework first, since I thought it best to get out of the way, then showered and went to my physical exam.

Since my professional downsizing, I no longer have proper health-care coverage, so I had to go to a local clinic that's based inside a pharmacy. Weird, but it's not like I was getting surgery or anything.

I arrived with about 40 minutes remaining in their short office-hours, with a patient already inside the office with the health-care professional.
Not knowing how long that person was in the office, I was worried that I may not be seen that day and would have to come back another day.
Luckily, the Doctor poked her head out and said; "You're next - you'll be my last patient for the day."
Relieved, I waited a few more minutes for the person she was seeing to come out so I could walk in.
Unfortunately, just then, two elderly women slowly walked up to the clinic - obviously wishing to be seen by the doctor.

Knowing what I was going to do next, I screamed inside my brain!

Even though this was really the only day that I had open to make this appointment, I knew that I would have to abide by my own code and let them go ahead of me. All I could hope for was that I might be able to squeak into an appointment and not be forced to try for another day.
This was really the only available time I had to fit in for the physical, but I was trying to juggle days and times in my mind to see when I could return.

My mind immediately likening the situation to just about any (or every) Peter Parker dilemma.

When the doctor opened her door, she was obviously in no mood for my chivalrous suggestion of allowing the two elders to cut in line. "No. You were waiting. You are next."
Looking at the two septuagenarians to my side, I tried to repeat my suggestion that they be seen in my stead. The Doctor was having none of it. She was irritated, and wanted to cut out of there as soon as possible. No way was she having this debate.
Luckily, the ladies stated that it was alright, and that I should go on ahead.
Perhaps, they too hoped that they might squeak in after me to be seen that day.

As soon as I was in the door, still offering to let them go ahead of me, the Doctor poked her head out and told them that they'd have to come back tomorrow.
I felt horrible.
(I STILL feel horrible about it.)
Short of my walking away from the appointment all-together, I don't know how I could have let the women be seen.
I knew by her tone and demeanor that this doctor was not going to reward my gallantry with a last minute appointment. Her attitude was more prison-guard than medical practitioner.

Still, as is my usual manner, I succeeded in winning her over and getting her to smile and respond favorably to my good-natured humor during the course of my physical exam.
She had obviously had a bad day, and I was at least able to favorably alter her mind-set before she headed for home.

Passing with a clean bill of health, I debated which of my other tasks I should get to first; car or recycling.
I opted for the recycling, since it would be better to get all those old, giant CRT monitors out of the car.
As I started driving, there was that car wobble again. But, the recycle center closed soon, so I still opted for that first.Driving along the interstate a few exits to my destination, suddenly it sounded like someone shot a rifle in my back seat.
The car started to pull to the side, and I knew that my tire had just blown out - obviously that was what the wobble was all about.

Normally, this would be a minor set-back, as I usually keep a spare and a jack in the trunk.
However, two things prevented this;

1. I had recently obtained this car after a prior good deed had led to my having my previous vehicle totaled (I had my van involved in an accident while driving to have artwork scanned, which I had drawn for a charity auction - recounted HERE - the entire process of the artwork at this link HERE)... and I had not acquired a full-sized spare as of yet.
   
   
2. While I had a "donut" spare in the trunk, I was without my hefty jack, only having the dinky P.O.S. that comes with the "donut". Unfortunately, due to the heavy rains and melted snow from weeks gone by, the ground upon which I was stopped was far too soft for that little jack to do anything but sink into the ground and potentially get me crushed for my troubles.

OK. Not a problem, I belong to AAA. It was a nice day, so I'd sit and wait for the tow-truck guy to come and help me out.

The guy from AAA arrived within 60 minutes (he was given wrong coordinates for my location) and he helped me swap the exploded tire for my ersatz spare. He did point out that I was lucky that it was a rear tire that had the blow out, as if it were a front tire, there would be a good chance that I'd be seriously injured - or dead, as that would have torn the steering wheel from me and flipped the car.

Well... I'll put that in the glass-half-full column.

Now, by this time, the recycle center had closed, so I wasn't able to make that.
The mechanic's shoppe that I frequent was also about to wrap up for the day - and since it was a Saturday, it meant that I was screwed until at least Monday.
So, it's all I can do to just hobble home and, if I can manage, drop off the printer cartridges at the office supply store, provided that I can drive my donut-wheeled vehicle in rush-hour traffic through the main thoroughfare passed several towns on my way.

Luckily, this I was able to do, veering (slowly) around potholes and other road hazards, while other cars sped past me.

Now. This would have brought my day to a close, but, alas, there remained one more surprise, and test of my "Mr. Nice-Guy" title.

After being stopped by a policeman, because he wondered why I was driving with my hazard flashers on (he wasn't the most observant cop), I was allowed to continue on my way, and he followed me to the end of the intersection, where I bore to the right and he stopped to park in a local lot.
Within mere yards of my turn, I witnessed a small girl hitch-hiking, alongside a larger person, a woman, it seemed - one whom, for reasons not totally certain, was having a hard time walking in a straight line.

Now, I wasn't eager to jump to any conclusions about the pair. The older person could be handicapped (or challenged, or "differently-abled", as the PC labels go), but to me, it just seemed that she was drunk.

A car a hundred yards ahead of me passed them by, and the young girl expressed her dissatisfaction (and youth) by spinning around to mime a "darnit" action with her arms. It was obvious that she was trying to hitch every car that passed, with no selection process in place.

Thus, faced with a small girl in danger of several alternative fates:

• Having to walk along an uphill stretch of road - for an unknown distance.
  
• Her older "caregiver" stumbling into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
  
• Possibly being picked up by some deviant mutant to dangerous results.

I knew that I had to pick them up and drive them, with my car filled with giant monitors and a donut-wheel, an unknown distance for their safety. Yay me.

Pulling over, I quickly rearranged all the cargo to make room for my two passengers, but there was now only room in the front seat, and they both squeezed in for the ride.
Well... more accurately, the grown woman sort of spilled in to the car - and practically spilled out of her top.

I had only a moment's worry for my own safety, as I wondered if the woman would try to take control of the car, as she entered before I returned from the rear of the car, where I had stashed another monitor in the trunk.

Also of concern was that I wasn't sure if the goo-goo eyes that the woman was giving me was a drunken attempt at hitting on me, or that due to her state of being just couldn't keep her eyes looking in one place.

It turns out that the woman was the girl's mother, and that they were walking home from a birthday party which was held at the local bowling alley. Finding out where they lived, I was startled that, had they not been picked up for a ride, that they would have to walk over 5 miles - predominantly uphill the entire way (and a steep hill, as we live atop a mountain ridge). Drinking at a party with young children around, and with no viable means of getting home? Excellent parenting at work.

What made matters worse, was that they lived at the far end of a rustic, dirt road, that had no level areas whatsoever and was absolute murder on my suspension. I hoped that the donut could handle it without my needing to call AAA again - this time, for a tow home.

The road, muddy and nearly overgrown with creeping weeds, was almost swamp-like, so I couldn't help but think of Richard Rory in a Man-Thing story, picking up a runaway girl - and getting arrested for his trouble.

But, I managed to get the girl and her inebriated mother home safely, and then drive the length of their "road" (which was more like a muddy gash in the woods than a road) back to the main road and then up the remainder of the hilltop to get home.

(It would take me a few days to get replacement tires [and it turned out, I needed all four tires, since the used car dealer sold me a car with wheel rot on the unseen side of all the tires] and several weeks to be able to make it to the recycle center to drop off the monitors - which I did on Earth Day - as written about [HERE].)

This sort of day always happens to me, and I'm no longer even surprised when such events occur.
Instead, I think of the eternally good-intentioned, yet ill-fated hapless heroes of my comics and know that I'll keep their example in mind.

Dr. Wertham didn't take into account that some young readers would be eternally marked - for good, rather than for ill, by reading the lurid comic books that he saw as a menace.

There is a quote that I also keep in mind. One that has resonated with me, because of its tie-in to my comic-book roots.
Written by the famed poet; May Sarton, in a book that I have; "Journal of a Solitude"...

"One must think like a hero to behave like a merely decent human being."
- May Sarton

So. Has a lifetime of reading comics made me a hero?
Or merely a decent human being?

---