Categories
classic debates Life

Kirk Vs Piccard | Classic Debates

Estimated Reading Time: 5min

In the vast universe of Star Trek, two legendary captains have captured the hearts and minds of fans around the world – Captain James T. Kirk and Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Their distinct leadership styles, ideologies, and charismatic personalities have sparked endless debates among Trekkies. Today, we venture into this cosmic clash of captains to explore the charms and virtues of each commander.

The Charismatic Maverick: Captain James T. Kirk

When we think of Captain Kirk, we envision a bold and risk-taking leader. Kirk’s fearlessness in the face of danger and his unwavering confidence have become emblematic of his character. He possesses an undying sense of adventure, exploring the farthest reaches of the galaxy with both charm and audacity.

The Sensible Diplomat: Captain Jean-Luc Picard

On the other side of the spectrum is Captain Picard, the epitome of intellect, diplomacy, and tact. Picard leads his crew with a calm demeanor and a wise, measured approach. A man of immense integrity, his commitment to upholding the principles of the Federation and respecting different cultures sets him apart as a born diplomat.

The Battle of Ideologies

While Kirk is often seen as more impulsive and quick to act, Picard is known for his thoughtful consideration and reliance on reason. Kirk’s emphasis on instinct and personal connections sometimes conflicts with Picard’s commitment to diplomacy and adherence to the Prime Directive. Yet, both captains have proven time and again that their methods achieve success in their own unique ways.

In the ultimate showdown between Captain Kirk and Captain Picard, the verdict remains subjective. The choice between these two remarkable leaders is a matter of personal preference, and fans will continue to debate their merits for generations to come. Regardless of allegiance, we can all agree that both captains have left an indelible mark on the universe of Star Trek and have inspired countless fans to boldly go where no one has gone before.


See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
classic debates Life

cats v dogs | classic debates

Estimated Reading Time: 5min

There has always been a heated debate among pet lovers – cats or dogs? Both furry companions have their unique qualities that attract devoted followers. So let’s delve into the age-old rivalry between cats and dogs, exploring their contrasting characteristics and attempting to find common ground in the feline and canine battle!

Cats – Independent and Mysterious?

Cats, with their regal demeanor and independent nature, have enthralled humans for centuries. There is an allure of these enigmatic creatures, as humans attempt to unravel their self-sufficient personalities, graceful movements, and mysterious behavior. There are joys and challenges of raising a cat, and some people swear by the unique bond they share with their feline friends.

Dogs – Loyal and Energetic?

On the opposing side of the debate, we have man’s best friend – dogs. Known for their unwavering loyalty, playful nature, and boundless energy, these four-legged companions have captured the hearts of millions. There are many reasons why a dog’s boundless enthusiasm can bring immeasurable joy to a household, while the responsibility and training involved in being a responsible dog owner can create great foundational lessons for children and adults alike.

Can We See Some Common Ground?

While the cats versus dogs debate often divides pet lovers, there are areas where both sides find common ground. Through shared experiences, we discover that all pet owners have one thing in common: love and devotion to their furry companions. There are heartwarming stories on both sides of this debate that defy the traditional rivalry and show that, ultimately, it’s the bond between humans and their pets that truly matters.


Whether you lean towards the feline or canine side, the cats versus dogs debate boils down to personal preference. Each species brings its own unique qualities and delights. So, whether you’re a dedicated “cat person” or a die-hard “dog lover,” let’s appreciate the diversity and joy that pets bring into our lives and celebrate the wonderful world of animals. After all, it’s not about cats versus dogs; it’s about the love and companionship they offer unconditionally. Though, I will admit that I am a dog person through and through! Which are you?


See You in the Adventures
Christy Grace

Categories
Book Reviews Books Movie/Pop Culture

First Time Reading Lord of the Rings

Estimated Reading Time: 4min

First time looking at a Tolkien book… I know, don’t shoot the messenger. Especially considering that I finally did sit down and read the giant book that was The Fellowship of the Ring.

I honestly went into reading this thinking that I wouldn’t like it. The bits and pieces of ads that I’ve seen for the movies made me really unsure about it all. However, I am glad that I finally took the plunge, because it was actually pretty good.

The story is actually broken in two sections, in my view. An unknown journey in the first part with just the hobbits as they head off into the unknown, and then a purposed quest with lots of new companions that are all very different and have a much higher level of understanding. This was somewhat annoying, because we shift quite drastically. However, I will say that the first half was a little less action packed and a little more info provided. When we get to the second half, we also got more action, but a few more characters to try and keep track of which was a challenge at times. Those aren’t Mary or John names, and it was difficult for me to recall who everyone was.

There was actually loads of info dumping in this book, but Tolkien made it work for me. Especially in the beginning of the version that I listened to in audiobook form, which gave some insight into the Hobbit stuff. I had not read that “prequel book (if you will), so this was a great way to get the relevant (and some not) information that I missed out on.

I will say the themes of good verses evil, and power corrupting were very well inserted and woven throughout. There were some interesting moments, and definitely a consensus that evil is bad… fancy that! In a lot of the books (particularly fantasy) that we are given right now, we seem to focus more on the villains and trying to give them an “understandable” reason for being the bad guy. To me, this is silly and I would much rather leave them in the villains for villains sake category. Sometimes it’s good to have a redeemable villain, but if the goal is not to have them realise what they did was wrong, let’s leave them firmly in the bad guy camp and move on with our lives. Very obvious lines were drawn in this book, which is something I think we need to take hold of and continue writing.

Good beats evil in the books. It may not win every battle, every day in real life – but that’s the point of a story. Good GETS to win, and evil has to loose. We need to draw the lines really easily and obviously so we can distinguish who we should be rooting for. I LOVE that Tolkien does this, and I was happy to read a book that even though the good guys are flawed (like us all), we ultimately know what the goal is and where we are going.

Bravo.


See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
classic debates Life

Apple Vs Android | Classic Debate

Estimated Reading Time: 7min

If you ask people this question, it can sometimes elicit some very serious reactions.

People on the side of Android will swear black and blue that the operating systems, hardware and tech in general are better on all fronts. Apple people will have pretty much all the products, have them all able to link together and point out the good features of theirs while pointing out that more people have apple chargers hanging around their homes rather than android… So, who’s right?

Well, when it comes to things like this it’s always going to be personal preference, but let’s look at some of the reasons why this is such a highly debated idea…

Android

My very first phone was android – though it wasn’t called that at the time. The debate over which was better was still in infancy as flip phones had become the major players (boy, I’m old). But as the iPhone 3 came out and we all decided if it was worth paying the money for an iPhone, that’s what I started with.

People who have android phones, LOVE android phones. I have heard people (and people very close to me, let me tell you!) who will absolutely to their dying breath claim that android is better. The main reasons I hear is the camera is much better quality, the operating system is better, more intuitive and easier to use, and that the phone’s themselves actually change and have more variety (opposed to Apple and their tendency to release an almost exactly the same phone every year).

While I can see the reasoning behind these claims, I have yet to really see that much of a difference in terms of how easy an operating system is to use. This is something that is always going to be a challenge to learn when you first switch between (even going from Apple to Android requires learning a new system). I could believe the camera part and even agree the range is definitely better for Android. But is that worth swapping everything you own so that your phone will no longer link with your other devices?

Apple

Apple was the first phone I ever got that was a plan, rather than Pre-Paid. It was a heck of a lot of money, and it was only when I got my first real, full time job that I could afford it. But man, I loved it at first setup. I have no shame admitting that I am an Apple person. I have computers, phones, tablets, watches and TV devices…. yeah, I’m one of those.

Some Android people have told me to come over to their side, trying to convince me it’s better over there, but I just don’t want to make the leap. Let me be clear, I’m not one of those people who has to have the newest model the day it comes out – actually I’m usually quite a few models behind (right now I am about 4 models behind the new release and very happy with the phone I have). But, I do like my Apple products.

Some of the main reasons people claim Apple is better, include the ability to link all your devices and having access to the same chargers for multiple products. Yes, you can do that in some form with Android, but Apple seems to do it really well. Apple is sleek, has a certain look about it that I just like. It is just as pricey as Android these days (sorry guys, but have you seen the prices on some of those Samsung and other Android models!?) and I am willing to forego as good of a camera, for the familiar operating system and sleek synchronicity. It also does actually have a great and easy to use operating system, hardware and overall look that I think is what you want from a phone!

Outcome

Until one or both of these go out of business (unlikely on both fronts really), I think we’ll be having this debate until the end of technology…. whatever side of the fence you’re on, I’m sure you have your own reasons that each is good (or bad!).


So, to keep the debate rolling, share in the comments which side you’re on – Apple or Android… Make your case!

See You in the Adventures
Christy Grace

Categories
classic debates Life

Gale Vs Peeta (Hunger Games) | Classic Debates

Estimated Reading Time: 3min

A girl on fire, a mocking jay, and a world that is just bat crap crazy upside down bananas! 

How to Draw the Hunger Games Logo aka The Mockingjay Pin - How to Draw Step  by Step Drawing Tutorials

Hunger games was a corker when it came out, and even more so when the movies graced our screen in the YA movie era of fame and acclaim. So, when I went back to read the books for the first time in 2021, the craze was well and truly passed.

But, something that people have been debating since the book, and subsequently the movie, came out, is whether Katniss should have ended up with Peeta or Gale, and now that I’ve seen the movie AND read the book, I’m weighing in on this classic debate!

Hunger Games' Fans, Let's Settle This Once and For All: Team Peeta or Team  Gale? | Entertainment Tonight

I haven’t looked into what ANYONE has said on this topic, I’m just going off my own observations, so here we go:

GALE

Pros – Katniss has known Gale for a long time, and in a personal way (not just from afar and once when he threw some food scraps her way). They’ve been hunting partners a while, know each other well and already have some sizzle from the start of where we pick up the books/movies. Gale would protect Katniss no matter what – he’d go down swinging and never hesitate. He’s a warrior who is all in.

Cons – Gale can be very one minded/focussed. He hates the world they live in, and is so desperate to change it, that he rushes into alliances which might actually not be positive, or provide good results. If he thinks something is the right way to go, he doesn’t support anyone else (ie Katniss), and thinks he’s got things sorted out. Gale loves Katniss, but in a way that seems to be conditional.

PEETA

Pros – Peeta and Katniss bond over the horrors of the games, and this is a strong bond. Peeta has cared for Katniss in some way or another for a long while (from afar), and showed compassion to her in a low moment by providing her with bread when she needed it (at personal risk mind you). He has a caring heart, and is compassionate while also being strong of heart. He can also throw some heavy stuff around, which would come in really handy around the house (ladies, am I right?!).

Cons – Peeta is a bit of a weenie. Let’s not shy away from it. He gets more courageous as the story moves forward, but he’s still a bit of a sooky la la. Bonds from trials and chaos don’t always last when it all dies down and normal life sets in. You can’t base a real relationship on something as fleeting as danger – especially when that won’t be a constant – something about Peeta and Katniss feels like this. When the wars are over, and things are “normal” and they do life like everyone else, they (particularly Katniss) will be bored with their lives, and eventually each other. Peeta is also a secret manipulator. In the first Hunger Games, we see him using their relationship to stay alive, and hide things from not only Katniss, but the viewers. It wouldn’t be too hard for him to translate this into a home situation when he really wanted something.


Okay, that’s my brief pros and cons of each guy, so what’s the verdict?

I think Katniss should have ended up with Peeta. I think Gale was a little too set on overthrowing the regime, and righting all the wrongs (either real, or imagined by him) at any cost. Peeta seemed to have Katniss in mind when he faces whatever it is that he’s got in front of him. His compassionate and kind nature gives him an edge for me, because that’s what allows a person (particularly a man) to be a good leader, and a good partner. It allows strength, because you have the ability, and aren’t afraid to show these important qualities.

So, do you agree with my decision? Share in the comments if you do, or don’t and why! I’d love to hear your thoughts.

See You in The Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
Life

Clueless, Gatsby and Chocolat | Classic Movies I’ve Never Seen

There are SO MANY movies out there, and here are just a few that I had never seen…. until now!

What did I think of these “Classics” and how many popcorns out of five did I give each one? Find out here…

>>>Get a copy of my ebook KIDNAPPED Entanglement >>>here

I hope you enjoyed the video. Did I watch any of your favs? Let me know if you agree or disagree with my findings!


See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
classic debates Life

We Were On A Break! | Classic Debates

“We were on a break!!” is probably one of the most infamous running gags that F.R.I.E.N.D.S ever did – so let’s decide if they were, or not…

Estimated Reading Time: 3min

If you’ve seen Friends, you don’t really need a rundown but here it is anyway:

Six friends who live in NYC navigate their twenties together. Love interests and drama (of course), careers, and of course coffee and Central Perk. 

Friends Matthew Perry GIF - Friends Matthew Perry Chandler Bing - Discover & Share GIFs

Okay, now that we have that out of the way, the debate of ‘we were on a break’ comes from the romance between Ross and Rachel.

They were dating, and when they started arguing about Ross’ jealousy and insecurity in their relationship regarding Mark (a work colleague of Rachel’s), and her new job taking a lot of her time…. they took a break?

The One Where Ross And Rachel Take A Break GIFs - Get the best GIF on GIPHY

>>>Get a copy of my ebook KIDNAPPED Entanglement >>>here

Okay, so technically Rachel yelled at Ross that ‘maybe’ they should take a break from “us”. Instead of staying and discussing what she meant about that and why she thought so, Ross just leaves without a word. Immaturity aside, it would have been a pretty hurtful thing to hear, so we’ll give him that.

Ross Hi GIFs | Tenor

Distraught at having thought he lost his girlfriend, Ross heads out to a bar and starts drinking with Joey and Chandler (a horrible idea really) and ends up sleeping with a girl from the copy place. When Rachel calls the next morning to apologise for her side of the fight, and confirm she doesn’t want to take a break (just a heat of the moment comment really), he panics and tries to keep the dalliance from her.

When she finds out though, his only defence was that he thought they had broken up. Unfortunately for Rachel though, it was enough of a betrayal that she couldn’t see their relationship the same way, and they break up (for the first time… these guys DEFINED on again-off again).

Okay, so all exposition aside, WERE THEY ON A BREAK?

We Were On A Break GIFs - Get the best GIF on GIPHY

As far as I’m concerned – No. They weren’t.

Ross didn’t even confirm what ‘MAYBE we should take a break from us’ meant. He just left the room and assumed the worst. He 1 million percent should have confirmed that was what she thought. There was absolutely no clarification of what that was.

Second, even if it was a break – it doesn’t mean jump into the sack with someone a few hours later. That’s just a stupid reaction which (obviously) won’t end well. If someone really does want to take a break, it should be a time for you both to reflect on the relationship and what you want out of it – NOT A HALL PASS.

Thirdly, neither of them officially agreed that they should ‘take a break’ – it was just a SUGGESTION. Rachel said ‘maybe’ which is clearly a potential that she is raising. When Ross didn’t continue with the conversation and ask any numerous questions like:

  • Do you WANT to take a break?
  • Why do you want to take a break?
  • Why do you think we should take a break?
  • What does ‘take a break’ mean for us?
Omg Friends GIFs - Get the best GIF on GIPHY

Well, do you agree with me? Maybe not… share why below!


If you want to read my book, head to the link >>>here for the KIDNAPPED Entanglement eBook

See You in The Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
classic debates Life

Dawson Vs Pacey | Classic Debates

Dawson’s Creek entertained us 90s babies for 6 seasons, and we got the DRAMA! There were numerous hook ups, but none so infamous as ‘Dawson’ vs ‘Pacey’.

Estimated Reading Time: 3min

Okay, quick rundown if you didn’t get into Dawson’s Creek before:

Bunch of teens live in a small town at a creek. Done.

Dawson's Creek Quiz | Tell-Tale TV | Dawsons creek, Dawson's creek, Dawsons creek quotes

Okay, there’s a little more to it than that. Love, life, and of course, dating each other in a triangle/circle/square. Like all teen dramas, we see the four main characters (Dawson, Pacey, Joey and Jen) all navigating how to grow up.

Joey and Dawson have been ‘besties’ for their whole lives and there’s obvious tension there…. then comes Pacey. The ‘Enemies to Lovers’ trope is hard with this one. Originally starting out disliking each other, they end up with feelings for the other instead.

Pacey And Joey GIF - PaceyAndJoey - Discover & Share GIFs in 2021 | Dawson's creek, Dawsons creek quotes, Dawsons creek

There was a lot of back and forth, on and off again, drama drama drama with all the characters and how they all jumped into each others pants (okay, maybe just ‘beds’ for inappropriately aged sleepovers). The BIGGEST of course, being Joey and choosing between Dawson and Pacey.

>>>Get a copy of my ebook KIDNAPPED Entanglement >>>here

Reasons To Pick Dawson:

  • They’ve known each other their whole lives;
  • They have obvious chemistry;
  • They’ve experienced practically everything together;
  • They clearly care about each other (and have for a really long time);
Dawson's Creek gif 2 | Tell-Tale TV

Reasons To Pick Pacey

  • They also have known each other basically their whole lives;
  • They also have obvious chemistry;
  • They balance out each others personalities and compliment the other well;
  • They understand each other’s home/life situations well
Dawson Creek GIFs | Tenor

Okay, here come the spoilers… who Joey picks in the very end:

I know that was a very short rundown of the basic points as to why each guy should be the pick for Joey to end up with, but that’s what you get. So, who does Joey pick in the end? Well, she has highs and lows with both guys, and there’s a lot of ‘finding herself’ while being with neither of them… in the end though, Joey picks

PACEY WITTER

Dawson Creek GIFs | Tenor

Who do YOU think Joey should have picked in the end? I agree with her choice (Team Pacey all the way!!), but how do you see it?


See You in The Adventures!
Christy Grace