Monday, April 1, 2013

A to Z Challenge – Avengers, Captain America, and As I Am - Plus Ninja News and Special Thanks

My theme for the A to Z Challenge is Favorite Movies, Bloggers, and Music! I’ll name a favorite movie that corresponds with the letter, and then select a character from the film. I will then name a favorite blogger who reminds me of that character, and then dedicate a song to him. (Also corresponding with the alphabet.) I’ll wrap it all up with trivia and/or fun facts about the movie, the blogger, or the music!

In addition, two lucky commenters this month will receive a review copy of CassaStorm!.One comment per day and each is worth one entry except – the first and one hundredth comments on each day will receive ten entries!

The Avengers

One of the greatest superhero films ever. It really captures the feel of the comic book. It was amazing to see all the heroes come to life on the big screen. Whedon did a great job creating a cohesive, engaging story.

Captain America is a gentle, innocent soul with a heart of gold. He’s truly unselfish, placing the concerns of others above himself.

Who is Captain America?

Father Dragon, Al Diaz!
Blogging at Father Dragon Writes, Al is a very genuine person. He stands ready to champion those in need. He came into this community curious and eager to learn. Al possesses great wisdom and is willing to share with anyone who will listen. It’s been an honor to get to know him better and call Al my friend. He’s a Dragon Captain now, but one day he’ll be the Dragon General!

Al is a translator, artist, writer, and dwarf wrangler.

To you Al, I dedicate As I Am, by Dream Theater

“To those who understand, I extend my hand, to the doubtful I demand, take me as I am”

You are your own Dragon – stay that way!

Facts and Trivia –

This Ninja may have clones, but did you know Al employs dwarves to assist him? Although this month, they are part of my Ninja Minions team!

Joe Johnston directed Captain America. What other superhero/adventure type movie did he direct twenty years ago?


Ninja News

Want another chance to win CassaStorm? The Goodreads giveaway opens today!!

Goodreads Book Giveaway

CassaStorm by Alex J. Cavanaugh

CassaStorm

by Alex J. Cavanaugh

Giveaway ends April 21, 2013.

See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win


Susan Gourley’s latest book, Marine’s Queen, was released by New Concepts Publishing last week. Congratulations, Susan!

Yolanda Renee at Defending the Pen signed a deal for two books with Curiosity Quills Press. Congratulations, Yolanda!!

RaShelle Workman’s latest book, Cindy Witch, is available now. You rock, RaShelle!

Juliana Haygert’s book, Destiny Gift, is really available today! I know I posted about it on Friday, but in the A to Z Challenge confusion, I got the date wrong.

Special Thanks – This is For You, Lee!

Three years ago, a fellow blogger announced a challenge to blog the letters of the alphabet in April. I waited until the last moment to commit, and joined a hundred other bloggers attempting the same challenge. I winged it, coming up with brilliant topics such as Q*Bert and Q (yes, the awful 80’s flim) for “Q.”

By the end of the month, my blog was changed forever. I went from thirty followers to over eighty and made so many amazing friends, such as Ella, Yvonne, and Jamie. I’d connected with the community in an amazing way and found my groove as a blogger.

And I owe all of that to Arlee Bird at Tossing it Out. Lee, had you not thrown out that Challenge, I don’t know where I’d be today, because I’d floundered here online for five months without any real success at that point. It’s been an honor to serve as a co-host for the past three Challenges. Lee, you can count on my support and friendship forever! Thank you.

Fan of the Avengers or Captain America? (Melissa, don’t answer that!) Following the awesome Father Dragon? Know the movie Joe Johnston directed? Excited about the new book releases? And Challenge veterans, what has the Challenge meant to you?

262 comments:

1 – 200 of 262   Newer›   Newest»
Cynthia said...

Hello from A to Z! I've heard a lot of good things about The Avengers, though I still haven't seen it yet. I do like a good superhero film, so it's on my to-see-someday list.

Jennie Bennett said...

Amazing theme Alex! You're so awesome to always think of everyone else. I've been impressed with Al from day 1 :)

Pearson Report said...

Here, here...what a lovely tribute to Lee - much deserved. He is a true inspiration!

And so it starts...another awesome A-Z April! (and that's my addition to the letter A) :)


Jenny @ PEARSON REPORT

L.G. Keltner said...

Your theme is awesome! I'm excited that A-Z is underway!

Mark Means said...

Awesome theme and almost as awesome as The Avengers :) Great film and great pick.

I would have to agree that Al is very Captain America-ish :)

RaveAir said...

The Avengers and Captain America are both great movies! I just checked the answer the question about which film was directed by Joe Johnston... The Rocketeer was also a great movie!

I wanted to sign up the Goodreads giveaway, but I saw it's US an CA only. :(

Empty Nest Insider said...

What a lovely tribute to Lee, and Al is an excellent choice for "A." You've proven once and again why you're the Ninja Captain!

Julie

rae-ann said...

Hi from the A-Z; I love your creative theme. Watching films is a way my husband and I switch off from work so I will be enjoying your recommendations throughout the month. Low the story of how this challenge changed your blog. I'm all set up to join in, though think I will be in the minority as I'm business blogging over at gloucestershirewebdesigns.co.uk

Enjoy the rest of the month!

Warm wishes from a sunny uk,
Rae

Unknown said...

I've been following Al's blog from the very start and, from the first time I read it, I fell in love with Father Dragon. You couldn't have picked anyone better to honor. Great job.

And The Avengers is an AWESOME movie!! :) Thanks for stopping by my blog and being my second follower. You are awesome, Alex. As always!!

Anonymous said...

What a great theme. Looking forward to tomorrow already :) Have a great April AtoZ!

Mary Kirkland said...

I love the Avengers.

Dee @ A Deecoded Life said...

What an amazing theme! I am a huge fan of the avengers and the cap. First time to join a blogging challenge. I do hope I win many blogger friends this way too. :)

Anonymous said...

I love the Avengers and Iron Man is my favourite. I just love his dry sense of humour. That and, oh, erm, he's gorgeous! :-)

Have a great A to Z month Alex!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex .. so pleased you've acknowledged Lee - he deserves much praise in his creation of the A-Z ..

Thanks too to all the co-hosts and minions thereunder ..

Loved the Avengers tv programmes - haven't seen the film ...

Cheers Hilary

Duncan D. Horne - the Kuantan blogger said...

Nice quote there, and The Avengers is a cool movie!

Keep Calm and A-Z
An A-Z of learning English
Round the world from A to Z

Sarah Williams said...

The Avengers was such a good film - can't wait to see it again soon! :0)

Mark Koopmans said...

Hey,

Great theme, Alex, very unique and a wonderful start :)

PS: Good luck to everyone doing A-Z, I'm looking forward to reading some awesome posts :)

M.J. Fifield said...

This is a very cool, very unique theme, Alex. I'm really looking forward to reading what you come up with this month. Everyone's being so creative, and I love it!

Clay said...

Alex! Your theme is awesome! Avengers is a good flick. I grew up listening to some Dream Theatre too - excellent taste! Cheers

Dave said...

The Avengers was fantastic, now I need to go back and watch the Thors, Captain Americas and the rest.

Dave
Dave Wrote This

Misha Gerrick said...

Loved the Avengers, but still need to watch Captain America.

And yes, I do follow Father Dragon. He's a great dragon to know. :-)

I'm hoping this will be the third year in a row that I'll win. Last year I won twice. Hoping to repeat that feat with even more blog visits. The A to Z Challenge really brought me closer to the writing community and also exposed me to blogs I wouldn't have found otherwise.

Michelle Wallace said...

A great tribute to Arlee, Mr. A to Z himself...
Father Dragon is awesome! Great pick!
This is my 3rd challenge. I'm just as excited as if it were my first... and I always say that every blogger should do at least one challenge...
Alex, your theme ROCKS!

Melody said...

I noticed "The Avengers" on several of the "Top 10 Movie Countdown" posts, but can you believe I haven't seen it yet?! I am now persuaded that I must.

Ray Rousell said...

A great start Alex, Like Melody above I've sadly still not seen the Avengers. As a kid I used to love Capt America, I had stacks of comics and even had a action man of him!

Su-sieee! Mac said...

I definitely enjoyed watching "The Avengers". Captain American finally grew on me in this movie. The Hulk is my favorite. I hope Ruffalo continues to play him in future films.

This is my time participating in AtoZ. You've got me hooked. I'll be back to see what other movies you'll be writing about.

mooderino said...

And we're off! Big thanks to Lee for starting this monster.

I wonder if DC will ever get a Justice League movie together?

mood
Moody Writing

Laura said...

Yup - the Avengers is fab - and I need to go and meet Al!
Happy A day
Lx

Rachna Chhabria said...

Al Diaz is one of my newest blog buddies. He is indeed a sweet person.

J.L. Murphey said...

I'm counting the days until CassaSrtorm.

Old Kitty said...

Is that Captain Sisko in the Avengers poster!!?!?

Yay!! Happy A-day to you, Capn Ninja!! Hooorah for Al Diaz and his minions of dwarves (now on loan to you! Lucky things!!!).

Superman? Take care
x

Rhonda Albom said...

Shall I admit that I don't know captain America? I do love your theme idea, and it certainly meets the word "challenge" head on.

Rhonda @Laugh-Quotes.com
AtoZ #42

Brinda said...

I enjoyed the Avengers. It's nice to meet Al; he sounds great. The challenge is a great way to push yourself and know that discipline is possible. You CAN blog through that many letters. :)

Ciara said...

Yep, Arlee changed my blog, too. I haven't seen Avengers.

Anonymous said...

One awesome theme indeed!
All the interesting facts in one small package!
Liking it already!

Regards.

Gossip_Grl said...

What a nice post to start off the A-Z and yours was the first one in my email inbox this bright and early morning! Very nice post and piece about Arlee to start the month off on a good note! Def can't wait to read the rest of your movie postings this month!

Chemist Ken said...

One day I'll join the A to Z challenge, but only after I finish my first book. Otherwise the time I spend on the challenge will feel like time I'm stealing from my WIP.

Suzanne Furness said...

Father Dragon is a great place to kick off your A-Z post. Have fun!

VikLit said...

Amazing theme! Father Dragon is awesome (as are you).

Barbara White Daille said...

Alex - wow, you've certainly challenged yourself with that theme!

And I think it's so cool your name starts with "A." ;) Thanks for the kickoff at the main blog, and have a great month.

Best,
Barbara

Catherine Noble said...

Lovely tribute to Arlee :) I really am grateful to him for kicking off the A to Z Challenge. Like your IWSG, it really does make blogging more enjoyable!

Laura Clipson said...

I loved The Avengers when I watched it, even though I hadn't seen any of the character's other films.

Nick Wilford said...

Great theme! Father Dragon is definitely deserving. I've been touched by his kindness too.

Unknown said...

I simply can't picture your blog as anything other than what it is today. Much of your success is due to your kindness to others.

This is a lovely theme for you A-Z Challenge.

S.A. Larsenッ said...

This is such a fabulous theme, Alex! Way to go!

Manzanita said...

Off to another April of fun and learning new things. It's like a classroom. I love all the varied themes. Thank you for all the grease you put into the wheels that make this go.

kjmckendry said...

I love Avengers!
My first A-Z Challenge, 3 years ago, is what really got me blogging consistently. Without it, I'd still be wandering in the wilderness of the blogosphere! Thanks Lee!

Kimberly Gabriel said...

What a great theme Alex. I loved the Avengers movie! ;)

Anonymous said...

Great post for the letter A. I participated last year and had lots of fun. Met lots of great bloggers. Planning to stop by and visit all those who are participating this year. : )

Cassie Mae said...

Dwarfs, clones, and ninjas! What an awesome team you have ;)

Love Avengers. I haven't seen it since the theater and I think I need to see it again. There's this one shot of Captain America when he's hitting that punching bag and it zooms in right on his butt. I remember really liking that scene ;)

Donna K. Weaver said...

What? I have to choose between Captain America and the Avengers? I'll take both, thank you very much.
The Cap is my fav of the group shown in the movie.

It was through A to Z that I met so many awesome online friends. I hope to be able to participate again next year. Love breaking it up like you've done this year.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Congrats to all writers who have books out recently and today. The Avengers is one one of the best superhero movies ever, period. Arlee I give you a bow. Cool start Alex and glad A-Z helped make your blog the juggernaut it is today.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Zoltan, you are correct! And sorry you can't sign up for the giveaway.

Karen, welcome to the blogging world!

Dee, you will make many new friends.

Clay, you rock!!

Misha, it makes a huge difference, which is why I'll always champion the Challenge.

Ray, you need to correct that!

Moody, I hope so!!

Ken, maybe next year.

Anne, we all started small...

Kathy, that's how I feel as well.

Thanks, everyone! Off to visit more participants...

Laura Eno said...

Al is a fairly new friend of mine, meeting him through you, Alex! I love his avatar. :)

Many thanks to Lee, as I love the A to Z. I first heard of it AFTER that first Challenge and was so bummed I'd missed it.

Laura Eno – A Shift in Dimensions

Karen Lange said...

What a great theme! Looks like you are off to a good start. Happy A to Z! :)

Ella said...

I love your theme! You always rock ;D
Nicely done~
I am thankful I met you during the challenge, You, Lee and Yvonne are a huge part of my blogging family~
Thank you Alex!

Oh, I'm off to visit the Dragon he sounds amazing ;D

<3 the Avengers! Oh, so cool about a chance to win your new book!
Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Love your theme and I well remember the Avengers here in the UK on TV many years ago. Love also your message to Lee. Great post,

Yvonne.

Jeff Hargett said...

That loud cheering in the audience is coming from me. Great choice for movie, character and blogger. So right.

farawayeyes said...

Way to go Al! Nice tribute to Lee also.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

This is my second year doing the A-Z Challenge - I had such a great time last year, and I met so many great people and gained followers and learned so much.

Looking forward to your theme and this year's Challenge! :)

Miranda Hardy said...

You have a great theme, Alex. I look forward to reading each one.

Donna L Martin said...

Nice post and I love the NINJA NEWS part! Good luck with the challenge...

Donna L Martin
www.donasdays.blogspot.com

Natalie Aguirre said...

Great theme, Alex. Loved how the A-Z challenge changed your blog.

Anonymous said...

Amazing that it's April again! My how time flies.

Jo said...

I too loved the Avengers on TV, not seen the movie.

Love your tribute to Lee

JO ON FOOD, MY TRAVELS AND A SCENT OF CHOCOLATE

Annalisa Crawford said...

I haven't seen Avengers yet, but my kids have it on DVD. Whenever I ask to watch it with them, they find other things to do. I think I'm going to have to watch it all by myself. That's not sad, is it?

Ian Anderson said...

Haven't seen The Avengers movie yet, but my boys like to be Captain America!

The A-Z Challenge means lots of early morning and late night writing...but it also means getting back into a grove. So thank you, Alex, and thank you Arlee!

Gregg Metcalf said...

I have not seen the movie as of yet, but I enjoyed the original series of long ago. Great start!

Unknown said...

Great theme, Alex and good choice starting with Airlee! I bet his name is splashed everywhere today.

I really enjoyed watching the Avengers!

Anonymous said...

oops the avengers was a tv prog over here which I loved... I don't know this film version.
My blog was less than 3 months old when i did the challenge last year yet it was easier than this year's been so far.. I had a bit of a melt down last night but am now looking forward to a fun month of reading great blogs and meeting new people.

Charity Bradford said...

Woot! I entered the goodreads giveaway already.

The Avengers was a fun movie. Congratulations to Al for being chosen as Captain America.

J.L. Campbell said...

Thanks go to Arlee indeed. Haven't been by Father Dragon more than a handful of times, if that often. Good to know another blogger. Congrats to all with new releases.

Liesel K. Hill said...

Totally agree! Loved Avengers! Captain America definitely doesn't have the edgiest personality of the bunch, but he's still one of my faves! Happy April Fools Day! :D

Denise Covey said...

I am so excited for Yolanda and her contract. Great things are always happening in blogger world.

Anonymous said...

Loved the Avengers too. Great choice!

Unknown said...

Such a beautiful tribute to Arlee. You have an awesome theme that will be fun to follow.

Cindy said...

Great choice for the letter "A". Captain America is one of my favorites.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

I will most defiitely partake in A to Z next year. The only reason I'm not this year is that I didn't begin preparing in time :)

I LOVED The Avengers. The only thing I was hesitant about is that I hadn't seen all the Marvel movies and I feared I may be lost on some parts but that wasn't the case!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi, Alex,

Terrific post! AL Diaz is a sweetheart. I try to get to his blog as often as I can.

Well, you managed to pull it off beautifully ... HAPPY A-Z! Hopefully we will get through this month as gently as the breezes rustle through the swaying palms....

Al Diaz said...

Whoa! My jaw just hit the floor and I needed help to put it back. I'm looking fluorescent red now. Thank you very much for your words, it is really really kind of you. I'm humbled and highly honored. Didn't expect I would be in this list. Thank you, Alex!

And I do love that movie!

jaybird said...

Avengers rocked. Huge fan (even if Wolverine was not a part of it, lol) And I also follow Al (Father Dragon) he's a great blogger to highlight! Looking forward to seeing what movies you pick and who reminds you of what character! Fingers crossed I can manage to cowgirl up on this A-Z challenge, and finish strong a month from now.

Heather M. Gardner said...

Great post! I love this format. Mixing your three favorite things is a great idea.

I enjoy this challenge because we see so many different takes on the same idea. All the talents, all the sharing...it's pretty much awesome.

You know I LOVE The Avengers.

HMG

A Beer for the Shower said...

This is the perfect start for A-Z! I love The Avengers. It restored my faith in the superhero film, proving that it can be fun, clever, AND well written, not just 2 hours of 'splosions (I'm looking at you, Michael Bay).

Bish Denham said...

I must live on another planet. Of course I've heard of these movies, but I've never seen them!

Charles Gramlich said...

I liked the Avengers pretty well, but not as good as the Toby McGuire Spiderman.

Michael Abayomi said...

I am also one of those who loved Captain America in Avengers, or more precisely Chris Evans, since I was never a fan of the character prior to the recent films.

randi lee said...

The Avengers, in my opinion, is hands down the best super hero movie ever made. Love it! And I also love Al Diaz's blog. He has a great outlook on life!

mshatch said...

Love The Avengers and Arlee Bird rocks for coming up with A-Z. It might be a lot of work but I love the challenge :)

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I like your theme. I haven't seen the Avengers. I really need too.

Lee's A-Z idea is phenomenal. I hope he knows it.

Shell Flower said...

LOL. Dwarf wrangler. I need some dwarves for my blogging, too. Still haven't seen the Avengers, but it's on my list! Yay Arlee!

S. L. Hennessy said...

AVENGERS! Such an awesome movie. I definitely want to check out anyone who possesses Captain America-esque qualities.

Julia Phillips Smith said...

Happy Day 1 of A to Z! I'm also a big Avengers fan, though my two favorite members of that team are Iron Man and Thor.

Have a wonderful month A-to-Z-ing!

Yolanda Renée said...

Al, Father Dragon, awesome shout out!
So deserving.

Avengers, great movie!

And Thank You for the shout out -- so awesome to find your own name in an Alex J Cavanaugh blog!

Happy A to Z challenge day! No fools here.

Luanne G. Smith said...

Geesh, you're going to have a hundred comments before I finish my coffee this morning. Go A to Z!

And Al's got a great attitude. Very friendly. :)

Susan Oloier said...

Alex,
Your theme this year is both awesome and challenging! I take my hat off to you.
The Challenge is such an amazing thing. I have met so many wonderful people through it. I wouldn't trade that for the world.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Cassie, I've blocked out that scene.

Donna, we met two years ago through the Challenge!

Ella, we've come a long way!

Annalisa, just watch it!

Carolyn, so far it is!

Lynn, you can do it.

Thanks, Charity!

Optimistic - next year!

Al, you are most welcome my friend.

Brandon and Bryan, exactly!

Thanks, guys!!

Unknown said...

What a fabulous idea! You seem to really have your pulse on the blog community. How lovely to honor your fellow bloggers by associating them with fabulous fictional characters. I may have to steal your idea for next year by using book characters :) Please visit us at http://citymusecountrymuse2012.blogspot.com/

Juliana Haygert said...

I love the Avengers and Captain America ;)

Thanks for the shout-out!

Unknown said...

Great theme! I can't wait to see the bloggers and the songs you dedicate to them.

The A to Z Challenge has connected me to the blogger world and all the wonderful friends that come with it!
Jenn @Scribbles From Jenn

Anonymous said...

Big fan of Father Dragon Al, Arlee, A - Z and you, Alex! Great post! :)

Unknown said...

This will be my third A to Z, I had no idea I was there at the beginning! It has been hectic and wonderful and something I hope to do every year

Tina said...

Like you said, the A-Z changed my blog forever. The community out there is amazing. Co-hosting furthered my journey. Last year I went from 89 followers to 350+ followers! Amazing. But more than the followers are the friends I've made.
I love your theme. Al has commented on my blog several times, but I can't get to his blog because his avatar connects to his google+ of which I'm not a member..so I'll try your link.

Tina @ Life is Good
Co-host, April 2013 A-Z Challenge Blog
@TinaLifeisGood, #atozchallenge

Carol Kilgore said...

I love your A-Z theme! Lee is amazing :)

Congrats to all with new books!

Clare said...

Excellent theme Alex, and great posts to start off with.

I loved the avengers movie, it was one of the best films of last year.

Al Diaz sounds like a super guy, I'm checking out his blog now. :D

Isis Rushdan said...

Great post and fantastic idea for the A-Z.

I need to go meet Father Dragon :).

PK HREZO said...

Yay for Father Dragon and Arlee! And congrats to all those with good book news!

Happy A-Z kickoff, and A is for Alex!

Summer Ross said...

I really enjoyed the Avengers. I never read any of the comics or anything- but the movie was neat.
Have a great day!

Bossy Betty said...

Great subject for the A-Z challenge!!! YOU rock, Alex!

Birgit said...

I still have to see The Avengers but I heard it is great and lots of fun. I like how you did the A to Z challenge and great tribute to your friend and fellow blogger. I have no clue of the other film he directed.

ilima said...

My daughter has a major crush on Captain America, and I can't complain about that. :) Al and Arlee are awesome.

Wanda said...

Alex your A-listers are great. All the best to you in the challenge.

Ink in the Book said...

So much greatness going on! This month is going to awesome. Thanks for inviting me to join!

And, Captain America is my favorite avenger:)

Lynn Proctor said...

i must admit, i am pretty lost when it comes to this subject--although when my oldest son was home--i could have been right in there--enjoy the challenge!

Gwen Gardner said...

I've never seen the Avengers and, well, I've heard of Captain America, but...

On the other hand, yay for Al! Such a nice tribute.

Elise Fallson said...

Big fan of Avengers, Captain America, Al, Arlee and A-Z. Looks like I'm a big fan of your A post too! Great way to kick off A-Z Alex. (:

Robin said...

Loved the Avengers. Great theme, Alex. I'll be looking forward to your posts this month!

Dana said...

What a great theme! I'll be back to read more!

Jeremy [Retro] said...

You know my thoughts on the Avengers.. saw Joe movie over the weekend... good time!

Great post and start to the challenge!

Jeremy [Retro]
AtoZ Challenge Co-Host
Oh No, Let's Go... Crazy

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Al is a really nice guy.

Special thanks to Lee for starting the A to Z.

Anonymous said...

Great post Alex. I'm with you on thanking Arlee for the challenge. It is something I look forward to every year.

Michelle Gregory said...

Avengers is our favorite superhero movie, followed closely by Ironman 1 and Captain America. and the captain is my favorite hero in the movie, although, i like the journey Tony Stark makes, and the way Bruce Banner decides that being Hulk may not be such a bad thing. i love the scene where Bruce and Tony drive away in Tony's sports car. makes me wonder what kind of trouble the 2 geniuses are going to get into.

Laura S. said...

The Avengers rock!!!

Happy A to Z-ing! from Laura Marcella @ Wavy Lines

Hart Johnson said...

Al is fabulous--love that 'you are your own dragon'... Lee is fabulous, too. And you're doing a great job of all of it, Alex!!!

Anonymous said...

I saw Avengers and loved it, but still haven't seen Captain America, woops! Great challenge theme, excited to see what is next. :)

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Can't wait to see how this works out for A-Z, Alex. It's going to be interesting, for sure. Plus all the other stuff you share. I'm not sure that I have a favourite avenger. Spider Man, maybe.

cleemckenzie said...

Loved the Avengers! Father Dragon rocks in his cave!

Anonymous said...

Love the Avengers! Fun post.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Yolanda, you are welcome!

LG, I hit a hundred comments in seven hours - whoa!

Juliet, feel free to steal!

Tina, hope you can get to him, because Al is awesome.

Jeremy, it was good then? Reviews scared me off...

Michelle, we'll find out soon...

Joylene, you do need to keep watching...

Charlie Warren said...

Great theme! I look forward to reading the entries.

Charlie @ The Semi-Retired Gamer

E. M. Prokop said...

Hey Alex! I'm not really into super hero or comic book movies, but I've heard from people who love them that the Avengers is great! And I love the quote you posted, it's awesome! I will check out Father Dragon's blog. I totally agree with you that Lee is such an amazing blogger and encouraging to so many who are new at this. He's a wealth of information, as are you. Have a great day!

Roland D. Yeomans said...

Thanks to Joe Johnson we got not only the right looking uniform for Captain America but the look for Boba Fett, the bounty hunter supreme from THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. Cap is my favorite of THE AVENGERS. Undaunted by gods, metal titans, or the past of a haunted scientist, he is a dinosaur in a savage land of tech. Have a great time with this challenge!

Unknown said...

The Avengers are epic. I'm finding Arrow, on TV, harder to love: despite the regular displays of Abs ;)

Tyrean Martinson said...

Avengers is an awesome movie, and Al is the best dragon ever!
Guessing on the movie completely - Superman?

Congrats to all the authors, and yes, I'm excited about new books!

And Many Thanks to Lee - I forgot to write a tribute - will have to add that onto the end of my post.

A Daft Scots Lass said...

Welcome to the challenge and the letter A.

Rock it, Ninjalex

A Daft Scots Lass said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

Not a big fan of the Avengers, but love Al-- he's an awesome choice to highlight.

DL Hammons said...

The Avengers ROCKED!!! Joss Whedon is KING...just ahead of Arlee! :)

Sue McPeak said...

Wow!!! So many great comments...so many Captains for The Letter A. As always a fascinating theme with encouraging words and actions for AtoZingers! Great tribute to Arlee!!!
Sue~AtoZ LoneStar Quilting Bee
collectintexasgal.blogspot.com

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Thanks for the mention, Alex.
I loved Avengers and like Captain America.
Yahoo to Arlee, a generous and kind man.

Julie Flanders said...

I am also totally indebted to Lee. Without my A-Z I really doubt I would have kept blogging. And Father Dragon is totally awesome, I love visiting is dragon cave.

Kathe W. said...

wowee a very complex mem Alex! Yours will be big fun to read each day! Love the Avengers!
Cheers! See you in the movies.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Roland, I didn't know that!

Elaine, I haven't been able to get into it either.

Tyrean, sorry! You'll find out tomorrow.

Susan, you're welcome.

Julie, that's how I feel.

Nancy Thompson said...

I love your theme! How brilliant! I can't wait to see who've you picked for each day. So many of my friends have been culled from your ranks, but I love meeting new ones, too. Congrats to Al!! Haven't seen Avegers yet but I will as soon as HBO adds it to their lineup. I'm on the west coast so I'll never be up in time to make the 100th comment but I did enter your GR giveaway. I want that book!!!!

Julie Dao said...

Lots of great "A"s you picked here! I've never seen the Avengers but I've heard it's one of the better superhero movies out there in recent years!

Livia Peterson said...

I love your theme, Alex! You're so giving to others. Making them feel SPECIAL in the blogosphere. It's gonna be very exciting to see what bloggers you highlight! You're an awesome friend Alex and thanks for being there and continuing to be there for me (and the many writers in the blogosphere).

Lee is definitely an inspiration to me. I think I keep on admiring him more and more each day because of this challenge, but he's so much more than that. He's been a genuine friend to have.

Jan Morrison said...

What a crazy good theme, Alex!!! Have fun and I'll see you round the drinks table.

Unknown said...

Well done Alex, you've picked a great theme. I really must see the Avengers - everyone says it's great. Lovely tribute to Arlee Bird.

Ruth said...

I love The Avengers.
This is my 3rd stab at the A-Z.
What I learned was how creative I really could be. Over-thinking it makes it work.

Donna Smith said...

Great start to a great challenge! And a wonderful tribute to Lee!
Wow...got comments?

Anonymous said...

To be honest I don't think I have seen the Avengers...I may need to watch that soon! As usual you started off the Challenge with A bang!

Arlee Bird said...

Thanks Alex for those kind words. You're the kind of guy I'll always want on my team whatever that team may be. You're the guy to know!

I like the way you're doing the Challenge this year. Good approach!

Lee
Wrote By Rote
An A to Z Co-host blog

klahanie said...

Greetings Alex,

I've just discovered that the challenge starts with the letter "A". What was I thinking!

Your three-pronged theme is excellent. All hail, The Avengers, Al Diaz, Arlee Bird, and "A" is also for Alex.

All the best and have fun with the A to Z, you and all those who are involved.

In kindness and goodwill,

Gary

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

You started off with a bang, and we expected no less. Great post, Alex. I'm going to hop around while my nephew's at school, to visit others.

xoRobyn

Marta Szemik said...

I see Lee is a popular guy today! I wish I could participate in the challenge, but I have to skip it. I'm looking forward to visiting the other participants though. And you're right. The Avengers rocked!

Powdered Toast Man said...

awesome movie to start off with. Can't wait for the sequel. Joe Johnston also directed the horrible Jurassic Park 3. Does that count?

Anonymous said...

I must see the Avengers. Am taking a screen writing class and your offerings will prob give me a good idea of films to see

Patricia Stoltey said...

I am so happy Arlee had this great idea because the challenge has brought me many new friends I would never have found on my own.

Andrew Leon said...

But did you know that Johnston was the primary designer of... Boba Fett and that he's been trying to get the go ahead for a solo Fett movie for years?

And just how exactly does one wrangle dwarves?

Sherry Ellis said...

I love the Avengers! Arlee rocks for coming up with the A-Z challenge. It's a great way to bring bloggers together!

Vidya Sury said...

Love your theme, Alex! I had thought of favorite bloggers too, but felt guilty about leaving some out!

May the Force be with you! :-)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Nancy, good luck then! And you will definitely have to check out those I feature.

Thank you, Livia!

Ruth, I think I over-thought it this year...

Donna, who needs milk?!

Lee, and I always want you on my team.

Gary, someone else just started with Z, so maybe the rest of us are wrong?

Robyn, good to see you!

PTM, I forgot about that one!

Andrew, I did after someone else pointed it out. And dwarf-wrangling - you'll have to ask Al.

Susan Kane said...

Oh, The Avengers, for sure. Not the awful Ralph Feinnes movie, but the one with Samuel L. Jackson and very hunky super-heroes.

Sand Castles and Snow Forts said...

Agreed about Avengers. Nice shout out to Arlee. :)

Unknown said...

Great post Alex. It has been great reading all the tributes to Lee also. I imagine he must be feeling all the love. And who can disagree that either the Avengers or Captain America are great movies!? God bless, Maria from Delight Directed Living

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I'm glad I was able to change my "A" post to say thank you to Arlee. I got that email from someone who suggested doing it and thought, "sounds fun."

Nicole said...

Avengers is already a classic!

SC Author said...

Avengers fan! And good luck with the challenge!

Helena said...

I don's see a lot of the superhero movies, but I did catch both Captain America and The Avengers and I really enjoyed them.

Mel Kinnel (@TizMellyMel) said...

I really like how you're connecting your theme with a fellow blogger! Can't wait for tomorrow!

Alexandra Heep said...

I know only one thing by Dream Theater and that is a cover of a Deep Purple song (Perfect Strangers), but I liked it

LD Masterson said...

Alex, you out themed everyone. I don't know the trivia but I'm a fan/follower of Captain A and Father Dragon.

Pat said...

Wow! You are certainly thorough with this challenge! I thought it was hard just coming up with 26 ideas! :)

Thanks for being one of the hosts for this challenge.

Tony Laplume said...

Captain America, to answer your question, is the United States of America many years in the future, when several of the countries have banded together in order to form a massive army (to fight goats, or something). Each country is designated a rank. America has gotten to the rank of captain. Hence, Captain America!

Willa Blair said...

As an author, I appreciated the storytelling that went into the Avengers. Whedon did a superb job giving us backstory and motivation along with kick-ass action and adventure. One of my all-time favorite movies!

John Wiswell said...

I actually enjoyed the Captain America movie much more than The Avengers. Thought transitioning to Father Dragon was very funny - my brain tried to reconcile it as a possible answer to who Cap was.

This is my first year with the challenge, though I've blogged daily for several years. Hoping to stretch new mental muscles with a singular theme.

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

I love the Avengers, and Captain America as well.

Your blog rocks and I shall be sure to come back and check out what you have to say during our journey this year, from A-Z!

Carrie Butler said...

I'm loving this theme already, Alex! :)

Samantha May said...

Love The Avengers and Captain America is my favorite. I'm already planning the female version of CA for my Halloween costume :)

Great theme Mr. Ninja!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Vidya, this is my third year with this theme and I always feel bad leaving out friends...

Susan, no, not that one!

Michael, glad you were able to include it!

Alexandra, they did a good job with that cover.

LD, I out-themed myself!

Tony, goats? Didn't know that!

John, welcome to the Challenge!

David T List said...

That's one of my favorite Dream Theater songs of all. And I've seen them perform it twice. (with Portnoy!)
Good choice for A, Alex.

Melissa Sugar said...

What a nice tribute to Lee. I wonder if he ever envisioned his little blogging challenge turning into such a world wide web event? I love your theme. You put so much time into everything you do. I love how you always find a way to make others stand out and feel special.

Christine Rains said...

Excellent start with Father Dragon and the Avengers! And a lovely tribute to Lee. I've already popped on over and thanked him. :)

Jason "J-Ryze" Fonceca said...

Wow, I'm stunned at the coolness of your theme, Alex. :)

It's great to list your favorites, but much more impressive to link them all.

I'm pretty new to A-Z, and I'm already meeting all sorts of bloggers.

Keep ryzin'!

Unknown said...

Cool theme! I look forward to seeing the upcoming posts.

Kathy
http://gigglingtruckerswife.blogspot.com

Li said...

Maybe it should be renamed the Arlee to Z Challenge :-) Sadly, I've opted out of A to Z this year - I won't have the time to respond to comments or visit blogs like I did in past years - but I'm going to try and visit as many bloggers as I can! And I hope you and yours had a great Easter too!

DiscConnected said...

Alex-

I like your theme, although I must be the only person on the planet who was underwhelmed by "The Avengers."

For me, it fell apart at the end-the final battle just seemed to be a rehash of the final battles of the last several similar movies (Iron Man 2, Transformers 2, Thor)

That said, some of the lines were great ("we have a hulk," "Hulk-smash")

-The other Cavanaugh

Debra Gray-Elliott said...

looking forward to this month!

Chancelet said...

I love all of your representations for the letter A in this post. The Avengers is THE BEST superhero movie! Al is one of the greatest, and I've entered your giveaway! Will hopefully grab my copy and will look forward to giving my review!

Maurice Mitchell said...

You have an awesome theme Alex and the challenge has come a long way!

Mel Chesley said...

I love the Avengers! Great movie. Great tribute to Arlee, as well. Changed my little blog too! Great post, Alex!

Southpaw said...

Very cool, Alex.

Leovi said...

Excellent A with Captain America of hero.

Intangible Hearts said...

Yeah to Arlee! Good luck with CassaStorm Alex!

Donna Shields said...

I love The Avengers :)

Kathryn Thornton said...

Alex,

I had the pleasure to meet Lee when he spoke for CWBLA on Saturday and have excitedly jumped right into the A to Z Challenge. I am amazed that you are tying together 3 items. What a challenging and interesting undertaking.

I can't wait to read all 26 of them and hear more new (to me) music.

Kate
http://Katloveswriting.blogspot.com

Jack said...

This is a really clever idea. Doing a movie theme is fun enough, but picking a character from said movie and then a blogger is brilliant. I shall have fun reading your posts!

I should know which movie Joe Johnston did. I recognize his name but I am drawing a blank.

M Pax said...

Father Al has been a great addition to the community. great choice! Yes, many thanks to, Arlee.

Melissa said...

I absolutely agree about Al. The blogoshpere wouldn't be the same without him.

Kudos, Arlee!

Unknown said...

Loved "The Avengers"

you're right, Arlee really deserved thanks for coming up with this wonderful idea that helps bloggers connect!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

David, I've only seen them once with Portnoy. You have good taste in music!

Ryze, glad you are enjoying yourself!

Lisa, we will miss you.

Nancy, thank you!

Kate, glad you got to meet The Man! And welcome to blogging and the Challenge.

Suzy, The Grey Brunette said...

I've never seen The Avengers movie! I know, I know... that makes me sad ;)

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