Hello, you are not signed on. |
|
![[ Blogs.starwars.com ]](/static/skin/default/img/title_banners/site_banner.jpg "[ Blogs.starwars.com ]")     
|
 | The CIV Ramblings of Mamadala... |
 Ok, so I have given in - I have written an entry about CIV!
I wasn't sure if I would, since I knew the blogs would be filled with similar entries, and I thought that mine would just be "one of those CIV blogs," but I've had so much fun reading everyone else's, and re-living the experience through everyone else's "eyes," that I just had to jump in and do the same!
The friendships: So, my experience began Thursday morning as I met Anakinside1 and PadmeSkywalker77 at the airport - we were lucky enough to fly out together, and were even more fortunate to find that we had others on the plane who were also traveling to CIV...one of which we ended up playing a game of Star Wars Trivia to pass the flight time!
Next we met up with many other gals (some of our Crew) at LAX - ViagoAngel2, Jedilily, JediMasterMina, Hansgirl3, and EwanandHaydenFan5. Let the squeeing begin! 
Then it was off to our cool hotel - The Westin Bonaventure! I was so excited to find out that it was used in the making of " True Lies" - another one of my favorite flicks!
Later, we met up with JediMelindaWolf and her lovely daughter, as well as amidalooine, and JediPrincess77. Everyone was so sweet!! We have all had a lot of contact with each other online, and many of us have had the chance to meet in person, but the sheer joy I felt in having us all together is so much more than I can possibly put into words!! I love my girls so much!! 
To make what could be a REALLY long story short, I'll just recap a few things that totally stick out in my mind:
The Meet-and-Greet: SO many of us have already said how wonderful it was to meet everyone and share some camaraderie. It gave me such a natural high that my hubby - who watched the web-cam broadcast - thought I was totally drunk (which I wasn't - I did not have one drop to drink other than water)!! THANKS AGAIN to DJ Maul, Michelle68 and GrannyWan for pulling it together, and to Nob01 for making the blogalot designs!
We also had another informal meet-and-greet on Saturday, when many of us had lunch together and snapped oodles of pictures: Anakinside1, PadmeSkywalker77, ViagoAngel2, Jedilily, JediMasterMina, Hansgirl3, Michelle68, EwanandHaydenFan5, amidalooine, JediMelindaWolf, JediPrincess77, greenandwhitejedi, Granny Wan, DJMaul, Rainbow Droideka, gencrs, and Nob01...I hope I didn't forget anyone!
The lines: Although long and at times arduous, while ami, AS1, EHF5 and I were in line waiting for Carrie Fisher's autograph, we met a very wise stormtrooper that said "It's not about what happens up there...it's about what happens here." Wow. That was such an epiphany! AS1 has promised to write a more detailed entry about this statement, so I won't steal her thunder. Just suffice it to say that he was right...my "line buddies" were so much fun!
The Talent Contest: JediPrincess77 was so amazing! Her singing honestly gave me the chills, and left me with such a feel-good emotion I'll never forget! She was bubbly, passionate, flamboyant and classy all at the same time...although she didn't win the contest, she'll always have first place in my heart!
The Vader Project: I wasn't sure what to expect walking in, but I was utterly awed by the depth and breadth of artistic talent that was on display in that room.
The costumes: I was so proud of JP77 and PS77, as well as Granny Wan and Grampy Wan - they poured their hearts and souls into their costumes!! I was just so incredibly impressed by all of the costuming talent I saw! I really loved Clone Wars Anakin.....!!!
The belly dancing: Athough to some, it may seem like just a seductive dance, I have so much respect for Amira and what she does. That type of dance is an art form and a discipline of the body. I got up on stage and tried to imitate the motions, but felt more like a bear with boxing gloves on! Amira herself was very gracious and down-to-earth. I had the opportunity to speak with her at some length during the meet-and-greet. She even has a degree in Physics!
The Signing Wall: How cool was it to be able to leave our mark on what was possibly the biggest birthday card ever?? Thank you again, Mr. Lucas.
The celebrities: Everyone was so gracious to their fans - signing autograph after autograph, and taking picture after picture. I really got the feeling that they really care about their fan base, and in many cases, they are fans just like we are! I was humbled when Amy Allen initiated a conversation with me (in the restroom of all places) after having met her at her autograph table the day before.
The kids: Although I didn't bring my two Padawans along, it brought tears to my eyes to see all of the Younglings who genuinely love Star Wars! Here it is, 30 years later, and the saga is still as strong as ever - perhaps even stronger!! THIS is what Star Wars is about - it is a legacy, not just a story. It is a way of life, not just a saga of movies. It is an heirloom that we are passing on to the next generation with pride.
I could go on forever, but I won't subject you to any more of my rambling!! Will I be attending Celebration V? I sure hope so - and I hope it's in Cleveland this time!! 
MTFBWY....always!!!!!
MO2YP
|
 |
http://blogs.starwars.com/MomOf2_SSW/29 |
 |
DJ Maul: Got Feet?
DJ Maul's Dancin' Cantina Party
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 8:18 AM
Im so glad you wroet your blog; I know its easy to think maybe we're OVER DOING it but C4 wasnt just a Con, it was a lifetime EVENT for all of us, so hell yeah, WRITE about it, remember it, savor it forever.
I honestly almost hit on you at the M&G
Good thing you didnt Sol, since her hubby was watching LOL...but I agree, maybe she needs to change her name to "HOTMomOf2YoungPadawan"...
|
| |
ketal13
HanAnWan
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 8:44 AM
Awesome. I'm glad that you shared--and after getting such complements for da' guys, you must be too!!!
Signing the B-Day Card must have bee exciting--it was like the fans giving the Star Wars family their autographs. Cool.
I'm hoping for a C5 because I'd love to meet all of you crazy SW nerds  . I must insist though that this time it is in Canada, mid-Jan--I don't know which you would remember more the weather or the Celebration!! 
Great Entry Mof2!
|
| |
ketal13
HanAnWan
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 8:46 AM
Ah, dang I messed up!! I meant to say, "after getting such compliments from 'da guys".
|
| |
Kenobi-fan
The Jundland Wastes Journal
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 9:12 AM
I wasn't sure if I would...
Please. It's your blog...beside, its great to hear things from everyones' perspective.
As I read these articles, I'll admit I'm hunting through all the good feelings for the things people found annoying about CIV. I know when I went to CIII I had a great time but there were definately things that were not so good or not well organized that impacted my overall enjoyment. Granted, large assemblies are tough to handle anyway but if you're going to do it up, you should do it as best you can. So far, it seems as though everyone feels the convention was a good one.
|
 |
Darth_Hiram
A Journey into The Force
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 9:25 AM
Sounds like a great time ... I'm happy to read your perspective as well!
And I agree with ketal13 ... let's rally to have it in Canada for C5!
|
 |
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 9:36 AM
 Wow - you guys are waaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too good for my ego!!
Thanks for walking as our "escort" for a little bit after the meet-and-greet, Sol 
I'm hoping for a C5 because I'd love to meet all of you crazy SW nerds *waves hand and says* : There will be a CV...and it will be in Cleveland. After all, the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame has to count for something!! I'd love to meet you, too!
You are such a happy, bubbly person Mamadala Must be all that soda I drank !! Seriously, I loved getting to meet you, hug you and share some fun times with you, Lily!! I treasure it forever!
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 9:36 AM
I'll have to get off my arse now and write one of my own I'll hold you to that one - you know I will Y'all shoulda seen AS1 get off her arse...she showed us some of her upside-down yoga moves...talk about a discipline of the body! Love you, AS1!
Size matters not LOL!! But the laws of physics usually do...
...the things people found annoying about CIV... Of course there were some annoying things, but I choose to focus on the positive. Someone wise once said "your focus determines your reality." Hmmmm....wonder who that was?!?
|
 |
ewanandhaydenfan5
I Have You Now!
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:09 AM
The Westin Bonaventure! I was so excited to find out that it was used in the making of "True Lies"
I found out this morning that it was also used in "Nick of Time" with Johnny Depp.
the sheer joy I felt in having us all together is so much more than I can possibly put into words!!
Same here. I couldn't believe that most of us were in one place together. But I missed those of us that weren't there.
|
|
ewanandhaydenfan5
I Have You Now!
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:09 AM
it brought tears to my eyes to see all of the Younglings who genuinely love Star Wars!I know what you mean. In the line for the opening ceremonies, I saw a dad huddled with his kid, engrossed in a game. That's what bonding is all about.
talk about a discipline of the body!
Uh-oh, now AS1 is gonna have guys hitting on her at the next con! 
|
 |
nob01
Oil Bath Bubbles
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:15 AM
It was great to meet you, mamadala!
Yes- I agree with the other boys how cute you are, but I have too much respect for women to be so shallow
God - how did I keep a straight face while I typed that?
Sorting out some photos for you right now
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:21 AM
missed those of us that weren't there. *sniff, sniff*...I know what you mean!  One day, we will all be together! Miss you already!
now AS1 is gonna have guys hitting on her at the next con! Lemme tells ya - I almost wanted to hit on her after watching that!! !! *Doh*!!
So long as you don't let your focus blind yourself to reality As stooge would say : " Zing!" Good comeback, F-fan!!
I have too much respect for women to be so shallow Oh, Nobby - I can totally "see" you saying that right now!! I look forward to the pics - yay!!!
|
 |
jkthunder
Seven Pieces
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:37 AM
Thanks for sharing. Really! To all of you who attended C4 - I am loving reading your blogs with your personal experiences and views about C4. I didn't go, so I am living vicariously through you all! Keep them coming. Don't hold back, and post pictures!!!!
but felt more like a bear with boxing gloves on!
LMAO! Great description!
|
| |
Sol Kassar
Ramblings from the Detention Center (Startled)
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 10:50 AM
Thanks for walking as our "escort" for a little bit after the meet-and-greet, Sol
Yeah, about that... I honestly ran out of my room to try and catch up to you guys... but y'all were already too far ahead of me... I guess I shouldn't have stayed in my room and watched the Simpsons... 
But the laws of physics usually do...
Since when did the law of physics apply to the use of the Force?
|
 |
padmeskywalker77
Padme's Legacy
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 11:07 AM
You know...I love how the three of us were able to fly out together...and to convince that lady to switch seats with you so that we were all in the same row!! The trivia game was soooo fun...especially when we were able to out-answer the guy we were playing with
I was so proud of JP77 and PS77, as well as Granny Wan and Grampy Wan - they poured their hearts and souls into their costumes!!
Awwww...shucks Even after my break-down early Saturday morning, I was still able to pull things off (that will be discussed in my blog). Thanks for the encouragement when things seemed so bleak
Thanks for sharing your experience!!!!
|
 |
The Stooge
Star Wars Joke-A-Day
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 11:14 AM
Was a lot of fun meeting you -- you were totally sweet and fun! And hey, Cleveland sounds fun. Got room for me on the farm?
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 12:10 PM
I shouldn't have stayed in my room and watched the Simpsons Hidsight is always 20/20 Since when did the law of physics apply to the use of the Force? Once again..." Zing!"
PS77 - I look forward to your blog entry! As far as the encouragement...hey, that's what friends are for, right?!
Got room for me on the farm? Sure, Stooge! ...as long as you don't try and pull out one of the cows' eyes!! LOL!!
|
 |
Michelle1968
M68- Star Wars Kid at Heart
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 12:15 PM
Hey sweetie! I'm so stoked that I finally got to meet you in person, in fact, how cool was it that YOU were the first to see me there just as I arrived? I'll never forget that moment and hearing your voice shout out... "Shelly!" and then getting hugs from you!
I'm still on cloud from it all really. So glad you had such a wonderful time.
Love you lots!
|
 |
amidalooine
The Emotional Galaxy
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 12:59 PM
Standing in that Carrie Fisher line with you and as1 and e&hf5 on the journey, was one of the highlights of the trip for me. Really.
Love you girl. No time now...more next time!
|
| |
zach starwalker
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 3:05 PM
i think i saw your outline at the meet and greet. it was hard to tell. well im glad you had a good time. and wasnt it just in indiana the time before. how about say upstate new york. i use upstate heavily. possibly ottowa in canada or montreal. its closer
|
 |
gencrs
Technical Manuals from The GFFA
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 6:16 PM
It was a blast meeting you, Mamadala. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Con. Now I'm is the same boat with as1, I need to get MY CIV blog posted, hopefully it will be done by Saturday.
Looking forward to CV.
|
 |
viagoangel2
Were Anakin and Padme' really one?
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 6:38 PM
THIS is what Star Wars is about - it is a legacy, not just a story. It is a way of life, not just a saga of movies. It is an heirloom that we are passing on to the next generation with pride.Dang! I LOVE you, Girl!!! You totally know how to get inside my head and put my thoughts into words. This is exactly the answer I wanted to give to that guy who waited in line with us, the line for the Conversation with Carrie Fisher. Remember? He wanted to know what was our favorite movie out of the saga, and I basically had no answer for him and he claimed I wasn't a True Fan ....well your statement above is my answer to him and all those who ask the Angel "which is your favorite."
CONT.
|
 |
jediprincess77
I Know...
|
date Posted: May 31, 2007 9:58 PM
Got nothin' but loads of LOVE for ya, Hot Mama!! You are just the sweetest person! And I had so much fun belly dancing with you!! But, yeah, I don't want to see any of that footage up on YouTube...haha!
It was so hard to say goodbye to you. These are memories my heart will hold onto forever!!
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: Jun 01, 2007 5:31 AM
I didn't go, so I'm living vicariously through you all! I can't begin to tell you how incredibly lucky I was to attend, jk - it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime thing for this little 'ol farmer's wife! Ami spoke very highly of you.I hope one day we can meet!
YOU were the first to see me there just as I arrived? I wish I could take credit for that one, Michelle! It was AS1:she spotted your sexy form in shades and just about ripped my arm out as she screamed out your name! I did cherish meeting you and your 2 handsome boys! Like I said before, it was you who inspired me to start blogging in the first place! I'll forever be grateful to you for that, b/c if I hadn't, I NEVER would've met everyone!
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: Jun 01, 2007 5:35 AM
Standing in that Carrie Fisher line with you and as1 and e&hf5 on the journey, was one of the highlights of the trip for me I hear ya, ami! Love you too!
You totally know how to get inside my head We've always been twins, girl...or perhaps we are two halves of a whole, I don't know...but it's just so eerie when we say, do or think the same things at the same time....down to having to eat relish on our hamburgers!!
he claimed I wasn't a True Fan Oh, I know...I wanted to Hutt-slap him! LOL!!
her heart is pure and her affections are genuine. Ok, now I need that box of Kleenex!! THANK YOU!!
|
 |
hansgirl3
Invoking the Squee
|
date Posted: Jun 01, 2007 1:29 PM
But, yeah, I don't want to see any of that footage up on YouTube...haha!
Oh no! Too late!
Mamadala, it was thrilling meeting you and hanging out!! I'm so glad you made it there! I wish it hadn't ended and we were still there all together...
I need to get my blog going, too (and send those pics to you; they'll be there this evening ~ I promise)!!
((((Hugs))))
|
 |
JediMelindaWolf
Try not. Do. Or do not. There is no try.
|
date Posted: Jun 01, 2007 9:55 PM
(((Hugs))) mo2yp
All I can say is that it was sheer pleasure meeting you and our blogging buddies over the weekend. What a treat!
For now, we'll have to meet on the blogs. Until next time . . .
MTFBWY
(time to tuck in the padawans . . . )
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: Jun 04, 2007 5:29 AM
I wish it hadn't ended and we were still there all together... Roger that, my friend!
Until next time . . . *waves hand* There WILL be a next time
Almost feel like I was there... almost..... Well, you just take care of yourself for now!! Wait 'till you get the DVD I send you!!
|
|
Qui-Tom Servo loves Padme
You Must Unlearn What You Have Learned
|
date Posted: Jun 04, 2007 1:02 PM
Glad to hear you had a good time. I wanted to share with you some ideas I had about framing and matting your print. First, Micheal's often has 50% off sales, which can help cut costs some. The other thing I've done is to mock up the matting in my computer program, so I have an idea of what I want and what looks best.
|
 |
Jedi Master Mina
Jedi blogging, go back to your drinks!
|
date Posted: Jun 07, 2007 12:25 PM
Wow - you guys are waaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too good for my ego!!
Ha...You know what I call you...Kelly Rippa (spelling???)
Thanks for walking as our "escort" for a little bit after the meet-and-greet, Sol
Sol...you dawg. I know why you really wanted to escort her.
It was great to finally get to meet you. In reality, I had hoped we could have spent more time together. But, alas, it did not work out that way. 
Hopefully, we will be able to spend more time together at CV or any other event we plan.
Hope you don't mind, but my CIV blog is going to include pics of you.
|
|
MomOf2YoungPadawan
Mamadala's Lair
|
date Posted: Jun 10, 2007 3:35 PM
Qui-Tom: I never thought of "playing" with the matting on the 'puter! I'll have to remember that for next time...I already took my print to have it professionally framed. Unfortunately, we don't have a Michaels within about 50 miles of here!
You know what I call you...Kelly Rippa Oh...if only I had her body....and her money....and her job....!! I'll keep my hubby, though - he's much more hunky
I had hoped we could have spent more time together I know, Mina dahling! It went by waaaaay too fast! You'll just have to fly out to Ohio this summer!
my CIV blog is going to include pics of you. That be jest fine!
|
- Please log in to post comments
|
|
 |
