Saturday, April 5, 2014

Retro A to Z Challenge: E – Extreme 1990

Extreme – Pornograffiti – 1990
This was the band’s second album, but it’s the one that shot them to the top of the charts. Most people know More Than Words, but the album also featured Get The Funk Out (with guest vocalist Pat Travers) and the incredible guitar intro to He-Man Woman Hater called “Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee.” Nuno Bettencourt remains one of the most amazing guitarists of our time.

1990 fun facts –
*Saturn line of cars was launched
*Nelson Mandela was released from prison and became leader of the African National Congress party
*Baseball World Series was won by Cincinnati Reds
*East and West Germany reunited
*The SciFi Channel debuted
*The NFL playoffs were revised to include two more wildcard teams

Movies released –
Goodfellas
The Hunt for Red October
Total Recall
Tremors
Die Hard II

Music released –
Alice in Chains – Dirt
Queensryche - Empire

Games released –
Wing Commander
Final Fantasy III
Civilization

And why is 1990 special?
Because that year, Mark Koopmans journeyed to a foreign country and rented an apartment while flying solo. That adventure would eventually lead him to Hawaii and the life he now enjoys.

Mark (also known as The Madman and Lord Baldernot) is originally from Ireland. He now lives in Hawaii with his wife, a U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander, and stays home to wrangle three young boys. (God bless him!) Mark is a writer with an incredible sense of humor (ask him about Siggy) and he’s devoted to the Lord. He’s an awesome friend and you won’t find a more genuine soul anywhere. Find Mark’s blog HERE

Thanks for the Features!

Special thanks to the following for featuring me or my book this week:

Medeia Sharif reviewed and featured CassaFire HERE

Robin at Your Daily Dose featured me HERE and included a really old post of mine.

Pat posted a review and feature of CassaFire at Indie Writers Monthly HERE

Thanks, guys! I was really surprised and honored to be featured.

April Movie Preview – Part Two

Here is part two of the upcoming theatrical releases for April! (Part one was yesterday.) As always, descriptions courtesy of the IMDB. Snarky comments by me.

April 18 – 

Transcendence
A terminally ill scientist downloads his mind into a computer. This grants him power beyond his wildest dreams, and soon he becomes unstoppable.
Director: Wally Pfister
Stars: Johnny Depp, Rebecca Hall, Morgan Freeman, Cillian Murphy
Possible Johnny Depp boob shot. (Can you say Lawnmower Man III?)



April 25 –

The Quiet Ones
A University physics professor assembles a team to help create a poltergeist.
Director: John Pogue
Stars: Jared Harris, Sam Claflin, Olivia Cooke, Erin Richards
I'd create a poltergeist that looked like Kate Beckinsale...

Brick Mansions
An undercover cop tries to take down a ruthless crime lord with access to a neutron bomb by infiltrating his gang.
Director: Camille Delamarre
Stars: Paul Walker, David Belle, RZA, Robert Maillet
I hope it's good since it's one of Paul Walker's last films...



Challenge + IWSG = Overwhelmed

Have you enjoyed the first week of the Challenge? Hope you’ve enjoyed my theme. Yes, it was once again more work than I anticipated, but a lot of fun to put together. The week was a bit overwhelming though. Let me give you an snapshot of my week.

Tuesdays are usually quiet – maybe twenty new posts in my Blogger Buddy file on Feedly. This Tuesday, it began at sixty-five new posts before 6:00 am. No problem – I knew it would be busy. Got through it and had fun.

Wednesday came. IWSG post day. At 5:45 am before I left for work, there were eighty-three new posts for my Blogger Buddies alone. By 7:00 am, that number was one hundred and eighteen.

Crap. At that point, all of my clones quit.

After about thirty blogs, I decided to focus on IWSG posts first. There are three hundred members of the IWSG. You can see where this is going…

So my apologies if I did not visit you on Wednesday. I couldn’t even return all the comments. Will do my best to keep up for the remainder of the Challenge.

Next year, the Challenge will begin on IWSG day. I may not sleep at all that day. Do they still make Jolt Cola…?

Remember Extreme? Following Madman Mark? Seeing any of those movies this month? Were you overwhelmed this week? And what do you remember best about 1990…?

137 comments:

ilima said...

More than words...I remember that one! And another great year for movies...I LOVE Hunt for Red October, and I must have see Tremors like 83 times, haha.

ilima said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Andrew Leon said...

Ooh... Civ! I love Civ.

You know, I would never be able to keep with that. Good for your clones for knowing when enough is a enough.
heh

Sheena-kay Graham said...

The year I became 6 years old? Not much, of anything. But my brother was born in '89. I really hope Transcendence is good, such an awesome concept. Captain America 2 is in my sights. Sorry about being overwhelmed. I take time every early morning to borrow a laptop to catch up on the comments. During the day I don't have access to a computer with nearly enough time (only the library and that's half hour) to read posts and comment back. I nearly decided to quit after F but encouraging comments in my Carlisle post changed my mind. Hold in there Alex.

Elephant's Child said...

Mark is a gem.
1990 was the year that work threw me out (on disability grounds) and I started the lifelong process of re-inventing myself. Not happy at the time, but grateful now.

L.G. Keltner said...

How dare your clones quit on you like that? That simply isn't nice!

Between IWSG, A to Z, work, and everything else that life demands of you (like the pesky need to eat and sleep and all that), it's understandable that it was a little overwhelming. Most of the rest of us would have spontaneously combusted under all that pressure.

Rek Sesh said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rek Sesh said...

You need a newer version of your cloning machine - time to upgrade from Clone Tera to Clone Peta; better still - use clonecrowd.

I remember the fall of the Berlin wall and the release of Mandela. 1990 found me fascinated with Andre Agassi and his hair err wig. It was the year cable tv/foreign channels was allowed in India - would take another year to be beamed into Indian homes.

I have an album or two of Extreme on tape and disc. I loved all the movies except DH 3 - a bit too much of Bruce Willis aka Gary Stu.

Mark - I miss reading his blogs -along with Tim, Pat and Robyn.

Patsy said...

I wonder what the record is for blog visits - bet you're close.

Shan Jeniah Burton said...

In 1990, I turned 21. I celebrated the release of Mandela, and the fall of the wall.

I can still sing "More Than Words" better than passably. I am also Extremely partial to "Silent Lucidity" from Quennsryche's Empire.

I don't know what I would do with that many blogs to visit! I've been feeling little overwhelmed (ambitious flash-fiction theme that might evolve into something bigger, down the road, two homeschoolers, CampNaNO, and prepping for Round 2 of ROW80.

I've been finding it hard to get in my visits, other than to commenters, but, tonight, hooray, I am finally just a bit ahead, with an off day coming.

I keep meaning to join you IWSGers, then forgetting at the first Wednesday (Maybe because I already write 3 posts on Wednesdays, and it's my hubby's Monday?).

I need some people to lob soft objects at me next month! =)

Empty Nest Insider said...

I never tire of that photo of Mark! He must keep his kids in stitches all day long! I can't believe that Good Fellas came out 24 years ago. It's such a great movie. Hope you're able to get some rest tomorrow, Alex!

Julie

LuAnn @ BackPorchervations said...

I hear you on the busy part. While I always try to answer every comment, for the first time I'm finding it hard to do that, after visiting other blogs and being with the family (who still want to have some time with this old gal). Having a BLAST! :O)

1990? I turned 29. Congrats on the features! Well deserved.

Unknown said...

Extreme was a great band there for a while. I liked "Three Sides to Every Story" and Nuno's hair. What gorgeous hair....

Unknown said...

"...at that point, my clones quit." LOLOL. Alex, you're too much. Do what you can, then get some rest!

Huntress said...

Ah.
The image of Mark wearing coconuts is forever burned in my retinas.
Alex, your followers appreciate all your efforts. Really really.

Frankie Miller said...

1990 - good movies.
What would we do without Mark? He doesn't have much dress sense, bless, but he's a great guy.
I'm shattered already - the A-Z is overwhelming, but fun, too. Alex, you are superman getting to all those blogs. It's time for you to take a day off. Don't bother visiting my 'E' - echoing quilting is boring!

Karen Jones Gowen said...

1990 was a good year for movies!

SpacerGuy said...

Its tough keeping up but Blogland is so cool that way. Bloggers always return visits. Total Recall is a great 90's movie.

farawayeyes said...

You're a better man than most. Cut yourself some slack. Amazing you're still standing. Have fun with this the rest of the month.

Brian Miller said...

it was weird seeing the walken preview the other day....EMPIRE was such a good album that year as well...owned that extreme album as well...have a good weekend alex...

Anonymous said...

1990: my first year living in Germany. Beautiful!

I had no idea Mark was from Ireland or that his wife is serving our country. I thank her for her service.

That's why I didn't do IWSG…I just felt I'd never be able to do both hops. I'm not nearly as organized as you, Alex!

Elsie
AJ's wHooligan in the A-Z Challenge

Cathrina Constantine said...

I remember Get the Funk Out. Again, I did see all the movies you mentioned. It takes a brave soul to leave one's homeland to live in another, speaking of Mark. But Hawaii is supposed to be paradise.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Ilima, I've seen that one many times as well.

Sheena-kay, don't you dare quit!!

Elephant, I'm sorry!

LG, I don't want to see any of you explode.

Rekha, I'll be sure to upgrade.

Patsy, my personal record is just over three hundred in one day.

Shan, glad you're catching up. And please join us for the IWSG.

LuAnn, I'm going to catch up on comments this weekend.

Anne, even guys admired Nuno's hair.

Mike, doing what I can!

Carol, is that good or bad?

Fanny, now I'm curious.

Elsie, I don't blame you.

Mason Canyon said...

Sometimes it's hard to believe the SciFi Channel hasn't been around forever. A lot of interesting movies came out in 90. As for Johnny Depp's new movie, I don't think anything he plays surprises me anymore. He does like unique parts. I'm amazed at how you and all the other bloggers handle the A to Z Challenge. Y'all are awesome!

Christine Rains said...

I do remember Extreme. That was a good year. SciFi channel, Tremors, and Final Fantasy VIII! I went to college way up north in 1990. Seems like another lifetime ago.

Unknown said...

Some pretty cool stuff came out i '90! Congrats on the features and reviews for your books. Yay!

Transcendence and The Quiet Ones sound really fun! I can't wait!

I can barely keep up with 50 blogs a day - I'm stunned by how many you can do. I guess you better raise the pay to get the clones back though...

Kyra Lennon said...

More Than Words is the only song I know by Extreme, but I love it!

Al Diaz said...

Actually my friend, it is Lord Baldernot (reference to Lord Voldemort). The Sir comes from DPK's Cosmic Table knighthood. Not that it matters too much. He is still an awesome guy with many titles and one of my favorite bloggers.

randi lee said...

Alex! I always love and appreciate your comments, but I know you're quite the busy bee--so you never need to apologize for missing a post of mine, not ever!

90 was a year that slipped me by...probably because I was just a babe! Excellent year for one reason, though: FF III!

Liza said...

It's hard for me to believe 1990 was an entire generation ago. And Alex, I don't know how you keep up with any of this...but you do. Clearly it matters to you. I hope you know how much you are appreciated.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like fun, make sure you rest tomorrow.

Kim Van Sickler said...

My husband was stationed over in Germany when the Berlin Wall came down. He has such vivid memories. That experience made such an impact on him. My brother just visited Berlin and he believes East Berlin has the most amazing architecture and vibrancy right now.

SittieCates said...

Yes, I enjoyed the first week of the Challenge. Thank you so much!

I'd like to see "The Quiet Ones." Looks intriguing!

Trisha said...

I love TOTAL RECALL, and AIC's Dirt is one of my all-time fave albums. Was a staple in high school :)

Great pic of Mark. haha

I only know "More Than Words" from Extreme, I think. Actually, I may know one or two other songs. But I can't remember them right now. :P

Yolanda Renée said...

Hubby surprised me and came home early. We made it to the 1:00 Matinee for Winter Soldier! Awesome!
I might even write a review! LOL

Great day!

And yes the week's been a bit overwhelming but fun!

Ella said...

I love that song, "More Than Words"...off to find this one-thanks Captain Cool!

How was Captain America? How many stars do you rate this recent flick? What did the Mrs. think?

Jolt Cola? Pepsi Max jolts me-I stay away from that crazy brew-it is rocket fuel.

We must plan our Blogging Party in Hawaii-Madman Mark knows the lay of the land!

Captain Cool stay chill today-
Off to play some tunes!
Thank you!

Robin said...

Wow. Your week sounds insane.

I graduated college in 1990 and got a job at St. Martin's Press in NYC. Big year for me.

I do remember Extreme. I love More Than Words. I am one of those folks who didn't buy the record, so the B-list songs remain a mystery to me.

And Mark is great!!!

Birgit said...

I have to admit I do not know the band. I wonder if that Johnny Depp movie will be that good-wait and see I guess. 1990-I remember-another tumultuous time sad to say but sometimes that is how life works:)

Jo said...

I was pretty overwhelmed and I don't have nearly the following you do. I don't know how you manage anyway. You certainly need something to keep you awake 24/7.

The music you talk about means absolutely nothing to me I'm afraid. However, I did see Hunt for Red October and Die Hard II.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - I remember some of the things you mention - Mandela and East and West Germany .. and now Mark with his coconut cups! He's doing a good job with his kids .. three boys - tough call.

You're doing a great job and we're mighty grateful for your help and guidance .. you set the bar at a high height .. the rest of us are jumping the hoops below ..

The A-Z is always a fun frenzy .. Cheers just mighty grateful to Lee and you and the co-hosts - thanks so much - Hilary

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mason, I'm trying!

Lexa, I need to give the Kate clones...

Al, I will fix that.

Randi Lee, I still feel bad though.

Liza, all of you matter to me.

Kim, that's really cool.

Trisha, you probably know Hole-Hearted.

Yolanda - awesome!!

Ella, I give it a full five stars!

T. Powell Coltrin said...

The 90's was still about big hair especially big/tall bangs and shoulder pads.

I've seen most of the movies mentioned.

J.L. Campbell said...

I do remember Tremors. Mark's picture is a hoot. You have certainly been busy. Don't know how you do it.

Kathe W. said...

wow- I remember that epic moment when Germany became reunited.
Have a great weekend! and thanks for being a great co-host for A-Z!

Anonymous said...

This was an AWESOME post!!
I graduated high school in 1990, what a great blast from the past this was to read, thanks for this!! Most excellent :-))
Jennifer Redstreake Geary
redstreake.com

Leovi said...

Funny, Extreme has been among my candidates for E, but I finally decided on Eels!

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

I loved all the Die Hards and I loved Total Recall, which of course was a book, FIRST.
Yes I was totally overwhelmed this week but it was all family stuff, not the challenge, which was enjoyable, and I made a new friend whom I would like to introduce to you. His name is Philip Overby and he lives in Japan but is American. I hope people begin following him!!! I think he is exceptional!
http://philipoverbyfantasy.blogspot.com/2014/04/e-eye-of-argon-and-why-its-awesome.html

jean

mshatch said...

Tremors - one of my all-time faves. Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward are hilarious. And holy cow it isn't easy keeping up with the challenge! I know I'm not, but I'm trying and that's all I can do. Lots of interesting themes this year :)

Liz Blocker said...

I'm loving these lists of fun facts about each year. Some of them I never knew (Saturn is that young of a brand?) and some are nostalgic (ah, More Than Words...)

And no worries about the blog visits! This HAS been an overwhelming week, and I haven't gotten to everyone I want to, either. We'll catch up!

Charles Gramlich said...

I actually didn't like "get the funk out." I've heard other extreme since that I like quite a lot, but that may be why I didn't buy any of their albums/cds

Mark Means said...

I think the only song I know by Extreme is "Whole Hearted", but loved it :)

My first, brand new, car was a Saturn and it ran like a champ. Not sure why they discontinued the line.

Yes, Melvin Koopman's is a great guy and all around awesome blogger. Props to him :)

Tyrean Martinson said...

I remember Jolt Cola . . . aah, those were the days of all-night hyperness ... followed by all day sleep. :)
Definitely following Madman Mark - he rocks!

Don't burn out, Ninja Captain!

Anonymous said...

Wow... now that you mention them I do remember Extreme. I remember MTV played everything back then and I soaked it all up like a sponge. I have a lot of good (and bad) memories of 1990, really started getting into music and baseball and video games that year. Civilization came out in '90? I didn't know it's been around that long.

I remember Jolt cola but I never tried it. I loved Crystal Pepsi though. Was that out in 1990, or '91?

I'm feeling a little burned out by A to Z already so I can't imagine how you're feeling! :D

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Mark is so much fun. Tremors was my favorite movie on that list. I can't imagine keeping up with all the bloggers like you do.

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
David P. King said...

With a name like that, how could it not rise to the top of the charts. Good post. It's really bringing back my childhood. :)

Gossip_Grl said...

Looks like 1990 was a great year for music and movies! I drove a 93 Saturn until the motor went in it in 2009. Best car I ever owned.
I hear you on the first week! I am hoping next week is less stressful

SK Anthony said...

All your clones quit lol...err....sorry? o_o I never tried jolt Cola but I'm with you, we need some. NOW.



Roland D. Yeomans said...

I don't have any clones, but my wits have deserted me too many times!

TREMORS is the movie I watch when life has gotten too serious and down!

Pat Hatt said...

haha so weird to have so many posting on saturday, usually just me and 10 others in my list at most, easy day, not anymore. Know what you mean too, the usual amount is like doubled. Awesome movies released indeed that year.

Dean K Miller said...

Jolt Cola was a big hit for many of my co-workers in air traffic control. Keep that buzz alive!

Extreme...yeah not so much, although I love the song title He-Man Woman Hater.

And who hasn't seen, or read, or both The Hunt for Red October? I knew Sean Connery was a commie all along.

1990? I remember where I was, what was going on in general, but I'm lacking on specifics. Probably for the best.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Hilary, glad you are enjoying the Challenge.

Teresa, I remember mall hair...

Jennifer, glad you enjoyed.

Leovi, that made me chuckle.

Jean, I will go say hello this weekend.

Liz, and now Saturn is gone. Sad, huh?

Mark, I think GMAC ruined it when they took over the line.

Chris, not sure. Do you remember Pepsi Clear?

ZSK, it's powerful stuff.

Pat, everyone needs to take off tomorrow.

Bish Denham said...

I actually bought that album by Extreme because of that song... And personally I don't know how you've managed to visit so many of us and leave a comment!

I guess that's why YOU'RE the NINJA and not me. :)

Sherry Ellis said...

1990 was the last time the Reds won the World Series? I wondered when it was. (I used to live in Cincinnati). I wonder when the last time the Cleveland Indians won. Did they ever?

Unknown said...

No doubt you are a Ninja :)So far I have been enjoying the challenge and meeting some new bloggers. 1990 my daughter Maria was born! Great year.

Fe said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Fe said...

Hello, Alex

Thank you so much for your visits. You have no idea how much I appreciate them.

I've not heard of the band you've featured today. I shouldn't imagine I would ever listen to a band called Pornograffiti :)

As I promised, I've at last got some time this weekend to visit a whole bunch of people. I've started with you (because you're at the top of my 'follow' list) :). I'm also going to say 'hello' to all those you mentioned so I don't know how many people I'll be able to visit.

An interesting thing happened through A-Z. All the pictures I'm using are by myself or family members and I used one by my nephew and his wife. From there, I wrote a blog for their son who is autistic. Isn't it interesting how things go around and around?

This will be the longest comment I'll do - promise...

Anonymous said...

Whenever I think of More Than Words, I think of my friend Phil. He absolutely hated that song. One time it came on the radio and he just flipped out. He kicked the radio and broke it. I never hated a song that much.

Rachna Chhabria said...

How dare your clones quit in the first week of the challenge ;)

I was just thinking of how you manage to return all the comments as well as reply to the ones on your blog, I had such a hard time on IWSG day.

Transcendence is one movie I would like to watch.

Chrys Fey said...

1990 was a good year. :)

Faith said...

Sorry you had such a crazy week. I can relate to the stress. I had a ton of projects due for school this week and I found myself floundering. This is my first A-Z Challenge and it is much more work than I anticipated. But also a whole lot of fun.

S. L. Hennessy said...

Saturns and Sci Fi channel? That was a great year (former Saturn owner). And B plus IWSG was definitely and overwhelming day. I'm not sure I did it justice.

Tara Tyler said...

mark k is cray-cray!
(sorry about that, ha ha)

and i like the movies coming out
it's just so strange to see new movies with paul walker... sad. like when Heath Ledger died, also sad.

and YOU are overwhelmed? i thought you were unoverwhelmable!! (hee hee)

happy e day!

Anonymous said...

1990 WAS a great year for movies and
have re-watched The Hunt for Red October and Tremors innumerable times, and still entertained. As for Civ that has to be the game that got me hooked to gaming - playing latest version on Steam now. (But first game was probably Guns & Butter... back in DOS days.)

Just avoiding overload despite doing IWSG, re-writing A-Z posts, and using neighbour's wifi.

Kirsten said...

I had to laugh when I saw Mark Koopman's photo up there in his coconut finery!
Transcendence sounds like a fascinating movie, and with Johnny Depp on board it's a can't miss. :)
You're doing an amazing job keeping up with all the blogs. Your perseverance is impressive.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Even your clones get fatigued? Can Mini-Alex step in? Nah, he's enjoying a relaxing retirement, I'm guessing.

I LOVE that Mark's coconut bra photo is still circling the blogosphere. Let's keep it going! Laughs.

Get some reprieve on Sunday, Alex.
xoRobyn

Susan Kane said...

I remember the movies from the 90s! But Madman Mark? No...we were young parents, and we were lucky to see the movies.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sherry, they have, but I can't remember the year.

Fe, comment as long as you like! Thanks for visiting me first. Enjoy the Challenge and don't wear yourself out.

Lee, I don't think I've hated one that much either.

Rachna, IWSG day almost did me in...

Faith, just so long as you have fun!

Tara, it is sad. And there is a limit to me - really!

Robyn, let's!!

Cathy Olliffe-Webster said...

BE COOL, dude. You don't have to do it all. I totally appreciate you dropping by to see me, for example, but please, you don't have to, especially not during this nutty time of year.

Take it easy or everyone's favourite ninja will end up in the hospital.

Truedessa said...

Alex,

I always enjoy reading your posts and I think the a to z is a bit of
a challenge to keep up with but, I am
sure everyone knows you do your best. I hope you have a great weekend.

Brandon Ax said...

Alice and chains and Tremors...sounds like an awesome year to me.


Brandon Ax: Writer's Storm

Gail M Baugniet - Author said...

Thank you for staying on top of the world even with everything closing in on A-Z/IWSG Tuesday, Alex! Yes, I now follow Mark Koopmans. Who could resist a man in a coconut bra? I don't remember much about 1990 (or about yesterday.)

Mark Koopmans said...

Ohhh, where do I start? :)

That picture is the gift that keeps on giving, so thanks for using *that* one :)

But, seriously, *thanks* for the very kind words... whether I am a Sir or a Lord, you can count on me as a friend, Alex.

Continued success with A-Z to you and everyone else... and as the crowd says in every 26-mile marathon I've ran: "Keep going! You're looking great! You're nearly there!" :)

Cheers, Mate :)

[This ends the official written man-hug] :)

Michelle Wallace said...

I cheated and posted a re-post on IWSG day... ha!
1990 was historic for our nation, as you mentioned above!
You need to take a short break after the A to Z...
Mark is really funny!

J E Oneil said...

I remember kindergarten from the 1990's.

I don't think they make Jolt anymore, sorry. Get a six pack of Red Bull and you should be all set.

Anonymous said...

That's great music and I love total Recall. That was the year I started high school.

I am going to enjoy tomorrow's blog break.

Tony Laplume said...

Of course "More Than Words," but "Hole Hearted" also rocks.

Crystal Collier said...

Yikes! I hear you though. I'm only making the rounds to between 50 and 100 blogs a day, and commenting back has almost broken me. It's fun though...when I'm not laughing manically, guzzling sugar, and begging my eyes to stay in my head. ;)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Cathy, promise I won't kill myself.

Thank you, Truedessa.

Gail, I could resist, but glad you're following him now.

Mark, you're welcome, and just had to use that shot.

JE, you make me feel old...

Medeia, so will I!!!

Tony, yes it did.

cleemckenzie said...

1990. I think that was the year I took off for some country or I went fishing or I thought about both of those. I remember seeing Total Recall, so maybe I just went to the movies.

Bob Sanchez said...

Well, I did see Goodfellas and The Hunt for Red October. But otherwise I guess I was clueless that year.

Lynda Dietz said...

I'm so proud of myself. I knew the band, I saw the movies, and I remember the events. Why? Because I didn't have any children yet and still had working grey cells.

I just started following Mark Koopman and will probably never think of him without a grass skirt and coconut bra, thanks to his voodoo twin with the peanut-shell bra. I'd be completely dumbfounded if I ever met him and he was wearing pants like a normal person.

Anonymous said...

I enjoy Mark's blog a lot. And boy do I hear you about the crazy first week of the Challenge.

MJ, A to Z Challenge Co-Host
Writing Tips
Effectively Human
Lots of Crochet Stitches


Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Do you think maybe Pepsi MAX replaced Jolt Cola? I go through several cans a day. It replaced Diet Coke for me!

Enjoy Sunday off!

Mary Montague Sikes

Shell Flower said...

Yay for Mark. He is hilarious and deserves a shout-out for that photo. Definitely a good sport. 1990 is the year I graduated from high school and the year I first saw the Grateful Dead live. High times indeed. I can't wait to see Transcendence--what a great premise!

Anonymous said...

My little sister was born in the 90s and I was bumped from youngest child to middle child!

~Patricia Lynne~
Story Dam
Patricia Lynne, YA Author

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lynda, you're awesome! And that made me laugh.

Mary, still not strong enough...

Patricia, that's a bummer.

mooderino said...

Wait, there was a Lawnmower Man 2?

Carrie-Anne said...

I started 5th grade in 1990, with my first male teacher. His awesome reputation preceded him, but that was a really bad year for him, and he turned out one of the worst, if most memorable, teachers I've ever had.

Morgan said...

Alex, I'm sooooooooooo incredibly happy you did a spotlight on Mark!!! He's one of my favorite people and greatest motivators. Definitely worthy of a ninja shout out. This made my day :)

Rhonda Albom said...

Maybe next year you can suggest people post their IWSG post a night early. As for 1990, it sure was an important year for modern history. And interesting background on Mark, but not as interesting as that photo of him :)

Julie Flanders said...

Oh, I loved More Than Words. Forgot all about that song. It's a shock reading "Cincinnati Reds" and "World Series" in the same sentence. Glad I had fun watching that one as I know that will never happen again.

Hilarious pic of Mark.

TS Hendrik said...

I turned 7 in 1990. Good year, although I remember wishing I could stay 6. I knew what was good.

Loving your A to Z posts.

Bob/Sally said...

Queensryche's Empire and The Hunt for Red October - what a year! Harrison Ford was a better Jack Ryan, but the movies have never topped this.

My A to Z Challenge

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Never heard of that band either. No surprise!

Sci-fi has been entertaining my husband for years. One of the reasons he agreed to get the expanded cable package.

A poltergeist of Kate...better ask Mrs. Ninja Master about that ;)

Don't worry about getting to all the blogs. We all know you do your best. Don't want you to burn out!

Unknown said...

Mark sure knows how to rock those coconuts! Tremors = classic. I'd create a poltergeist that looks like Henry Cavill and sounds like Benedict Cumberbatch.
WriterlySam
A to Z #TeamDamyanti

Patricia Stoltey said...

Getting to all the blogs I want to visit is keeping me hopping. I don't know how on earth you do what you do, Alex.

Doesn't look like any of the April movies will get me to a theater.

Unknown said...

I don't see how you can make it to all the blogs you do!
Heck I missed coming here on Fri.

Cathy Keaton said...

1990 was the year I started high school! I remember Vanilla Ice and MC Hammer in there somewhere.

Stephen Tremp said...

Alex, your blog was going so well, what with Pat Traverse and all. The came Mark Koopman.

Can't unsee that hahahahaha!

Alice In Chains had so many good songs!



Stephen Tremp said...

Oh, I'm totally looking forward to Transcendence. But then again I said the same thing about Noah. But I have high hopes for the former. Depp, Freeman, and a cast of others hopefully will pull this one off.

Unknown said...

Great year for movies and of course anything in the Final Fantasy series...would have to be great! Transcendence looks interesting. I love Johnny Depp, but he hasn't been having much luck with box office hits of late. Hope this one changes this for him.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Moody, unfortunately yes.

Rhonda, that last line is an understatement...

Bob, the first one was perfect.

Elizabeth, as long as she doesn't haunt her, my wife will never know...

Stephen, it's now in your head forever.

Elise Fallson said...

Loved Extreme.
You couldn't have posted a better pic of Mark, just hilarious. :D

Vanessa Morgan said...

Going to watch The Quiet Ones on Tuesday. I don't expect too much though.

Laura Clipson said...

I was born in 1990, so it was a pretty good year for me :)
It's been a rough week, but so worth it! This is part of what the challenge is about for me.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Alex, I have no idea how you do it all! I was a little overwhelmed, and I don't have anything close to what you have to do….

Adding THE QUIET ONES to watch on DVD. I'm usually too chicken to see horror movies in the theater…. :)

Madeline @ The Shellshank Redemption
Minion, Capt. Alex's Ninja Minion Army
The 2014 Blogging from A-Z Challenge

Intangible Hearts said...

Thanks for introducing me to another humor writer and one that lives the dream in Hawaii, my favorite setting and blog topic.

Anonymous said...

How many more new Paul Walker movies will there be? Crazy to think he can still make money posthumously. Guess we'll need beneficiaries for our royalties at some point.

randi lee said...

Hi Alex! Just a quick thank you for heading over to Michelle's blog. You're the best!!

randi lee said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

1990 - the year I got married. It was a good year all around. :)

kjmckendry said...

I was graduating from high school in 1990. I love Mark, he is funny.

Alex, I don't know how you do it, even with your clones!

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

My Captain, I think you need more ninjas. Maybe if you had 5 do 30 each? I'm available for next month.

1990 was a good year for us. We still had a huge family. Too many have passed since then. I couldn't help noting that the movies had male leads, but too many exciting roles for women. Glad to see that's changing even tho I enjoyed all the movies.

We need more Bullock and McCarthy films.

klahanie said...

Hi human, Alex,

I have no idea how you do it. My human and I have been spending at least ten hours a day commenting on the A to Z. And you know how my human and I find the challenge rather alarming and potentially stress-inducing. That cannot be right.

Please do not apologise, my human friend. If anything, altruistic as you are, one can only do so much. Take Sunday out and please relax. Thank you.

I follow that human Mark, the guy who likes to wear a coconut bra and smokes a grass skirt. He seems to be missing in action. Oh wait, he's commenting on your site.

!990 and Brit Pop was in full swing in Britain.

Pawsitive wishes,

Penny, your friendly host of the Alphabark Challenge, 2014!

Leovi said...

Yes, I remember The Hunt for Red October!

James Garcia Jr said...

Hey, Alex! Sorry it's been forever.
I'm a big fan of Extreme, but it's Three Sides to Every Story that I keep coming back for. They could teach a class in college on that album! Love the Queensryche shout-out. Empire is a fantastic album. I still play the heck out of that one. God only knew what kind of drama that band was eventually going to go through, but they had a heck of a run.

-Jimmy

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Vanessa, not a lot to go on, so no idea what to expect either. Let us know.

Milo, something to think about. If they finish the next Fast and Furious film, that will be at least one more with Walker.

Randi Lee, of course! You're welcome.

Joylene, I'm going to take you up on that offer.

Penny, I did indeed take most of today off. And Mark smokes those grass skirts? That explains a lot...

Hey James! You rock.

Gail said...

Wishing you astronomical sales!

Jennifer Hawes said...

I graduated in '90:) I was thinking Dead Poets Society, but I think this movie debuted in '89. I can't wait to see Paul Walker's new movie. David Belle is one of the founders of parkour/free running. My son performs this awesome sport!

Bevimus said...

I also remember More then Words, but have no other knowledge of the band. I feel my musical education is lacking.

And mark is one of the absolute nicest people I've met in the blog-o-sphere. Just such an sweet, spiritual, giving man.

The Happy Whisk said...

Jolt, you are funny. Alex, I enjoyed reading about how reading all this went for you. It's not always easy to get to everyone.

Arlee Bird said...

1990 was the year my father died so that's what stands out most for me then.

I have that Extreme CD. It's a good one.

Lee
A Faraway View
An A to Z Co-host blog

G. B. Miller said...

Absolutely loved "Get The Funk Out", as it's one of my favorite songs and favorite videos. Even had it as a 45 until it melted in the sun during moving day when it was left on the turntable.

A-Z Challenge at Father Nature's Corner

Tina said...

Alex, no one expects you to do everything. Even Ninja Captains with armies of clones can't do it all. I had to make the conscious effort to tell myself that I couldn't do it all, so what was the most important? I've been focusing on getting those tasks done.
I also think that participants, buddies, and others understand, or at least have an inkling, of how much work it is being a co-host, and how many blogs we want to visit, and are patient. I'm still returning C post comments...one blog at a time. Just keep swimming...
Tina @ Life is Good
A to Z Team @ Blogging From A to Z April Challenge 2014

Deniz Bevan said...

Ha ha, I remember Extreme! I have that Alice in Chains tape, too :-)

Awesome photo of Mark!

Deniz Bevan said...

I wasn't overwhelmed at the start but I might be now.. Started my new job last week, so had less time for blogs and now I'm nine posts behind on replying to those who commented on mine! And have to write my advance posts for next week! And so on...