Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Braver Than Their Dad: Fan Expo Dallas 2026

(Guest Post by Luis)

Cons are my happy place: the costumes, the energy, the culture, the panels, the geekery, the creativity, the celebrities. Even though this was my 10th con, I still get a giddy thrill walking onto the floor. But I must confess, talking to celebrities makes me super nervous. What would I say? Could I be clever or quippy? Or would I crash and burn in a blaze of awkwardness? (Spoiler alert: crash and burn.)

That was confirmed on Friday. I was exploring the floor solo in my Red Power Ranger t-shirt when someone called out from a booth:

"Oh, hey, man." He was staring at my shirt. Before I registered it, I was talking to Steve Cardenas (Rocky) from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.

"Hey there!" I said, with no idea what to say next. "How're you doing? How was Power Morphicon?"

He gave a quick, one-sentence answer that didn't give me much to work with. He was sharing the booth with David Fielding (Zordon) and Karan Ashley (Aisha). My brain ran out of words. So when he gestured to his prints for sale, and didn't want to get guilted into buying any of it, I made up some excuse and said I'd definitely be back.

I did not go back.

Saturday was a completely different con.

Put me in a panel audience, though, and I'm right at home. Panels are my favorite part of any con: the stories behind the shows, the panelists playing off each other, and those one or two cringey audience questions that never quite land.

This year I caught Larry Houston, one of the key players behind the original X-Men: The Animated Series and now a consultant on X-Men '97. He talked about what an uphill battle it was to get the show made. Fox Kids had little faith in it, but Margaret Loesch put her career on the line for it, just as she did for another little show called Power Rangers. (So apparently I owe her most of my childhood.)

I'm a sucker for theme songs and opening sequences, and we all know the X-Men intro is one of the all-time greats. When I first heard the revival's new intro, I was 10 years old all over again.

So I asked Larry what role he played in creating the original. His answer: he had one weekend to draw the whole thing out. One of my childhood's most iconic openings came together in a matter of days!

I offered to take my two older girls, and each of them got to bring a friend. I wanted them to experience what I love about cons, all the fandoms and vendors and costumes and everything.

My 15-year-old and her friend peeled off pretty quickly. But, my 11-year-old and her friend dragged me all over the vendor floor and Artist Alley. They found the VR station and played for a solid half hour, went to a Sailor Moon panel, then went straight back for more VR. I was basically their chauffeur for the day, and honestly, I loved it.

My 11-year-old is also braver than her dad. She really wanted a signed poster from Stephanie Sheh, the English voice of Sailor Moon in Sailor Moon Crystal. It was $70, so she offered to pay half up front and earn the other half. If she wanted it that much and was willing to work for it, that was that. She went home with her poster.

I, for the record, still don't have a Steve Cardenas-signed print.

All day she kept spotting cosplayers from Undertale and Deltarune, and she'd walk right up to tell them she loved their cosplay. She never once stopped to worry about being clever. She just told them what she felt.

Watching her, I thought about Friday and how much I worry about saying the right thing. Sometimes the right thing to say is just the thing you feel.

I've taken each of my older girls to a con before, separately. This was the first time I got to share one with both of them, fandoms, friends and all. There's no other place I'd rather be.


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Friday, September 25, 2026

Edmund Pevensie: What is Past


I started listening to The Chronicles of Narnia again on my drives (usually when I've picked up my kids, since Harry Potter and Percy Jackson might be a little mature for a six-year-old or a three-year-old. Every other time I've read or listened to the series, I did it chronologically (my brain likes it that way). This time I'm going in release order and my plan is to highlight one character per book along the way. First up: Edmund.

“You have a traitor there, Aslan. … You know that every traitor belongs to me as my lawful prey and that for every treachery I have a right to a kill.” — Jadis ("The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe")

After Edmund betrayed his family and allied himself with the White Witch, things went downhill for him very fast. He was abused and beaten down, physically and mentally. It was miraculous that Aslan's forces were able to find him and rescue him from the clutches of death, at the hand of Jadis. As the Witch said, he was a traitor and she could rightfully condemn him to death. Why she had that authority? Not sure, but the fact is that she could.


Every Narnia fan knows that Aslan's sacrifice for Edmund represents the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Aslan died on the stone table to save someone fated for death, just as the Savior allowed himself to be killed on the cross to save humanity, doomed for eternal damnation. But even before the physical sacrifice, Aslan changed Edmund's heart.

“There is no need to talk to your brother about what is past.” — Aslan ("The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe")

Aslan didn't simply absolve Edmund of his treachery; he changed the nature of the future king. And his brother and sisters were instructed to not talk any further about his mistake. Edmund was a "new creature" (2 Corinthians 5:17) and deserved to be treated as such. 

“When we repent, when we confess and forsake our sins, the Lord says He remembers them no more. It is not that He forgets; rather, in a remarkable way, it seems He chooses not to remember them, nor need we.” — Elder Gong (“Trust Again”)


I'm sure we've all heard the question countless times about why we remember our past sins so clearly, even though God has forgotten them. Alma the Younger explains this idea clearly when he said he could "remember [his] pains no more." (Alma 36:19) Yes, Alma could remember his sins. But he was able to use his past to teach and testify of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, making him and his friends some of the most powerful missionaries in The Book of Mormon. After "a mighty change of heart" (Alma 5:14) I'm not the same man anymore. Every time we repent we continue to grow and change through the Atonement. I like to think I was pretty mature for a freshman at BYU, but I'm not the same person sixteen years later. Yet there are lessons from my past that I can use to bless others.

“Even a traitor may mend. I have known one that did.” —King Edmund (“The Horse and His Boy”)

As a grown man and king, Edmund testified of his change and his family continued to tell the story of the wardrobe. He used that story and testimony to feel compassion for Prince Rabadash. The prince of Calormen didn't accept that mercy, but it still says something about Edmund that he offered the forgiveness. 


I hope each of us can use Edmund's example to quit dwelling on mistakes of the past. I know I could do better at replaying the shame of past sins. As Aslan told the Pevensies, “There is no need to talk...about what is past.” Yes, we can use those experiences to bear testimony, but that's different from "harrowing up" ourselves when God has already moved on. Easier said than done, but that's my prayer for myself and for all of us.

PS: I will reserve judgment of the upcoming adaptation of The Magician's Nephew until I see it.


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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Something For Everyone: Fan Expo Dallas


(Guest Post by Ryan)

Another year and another Con down. Fan Expo Dallas 2026 has come and gone and it once again has not failed to disappoint. While it isn’t the biggest convention I’ve been to, it still hits that pivotal urge to be around people who have similar interests as you. It really is the geeky equivalent to a tailgate party for a sports event. Except with people in costumes and sweaty people packed together...wait. I guess they are the same. Just replace sports outfits for Batman and anime characters. And like sports you see people of all walks of life come together to show off their fandoms in full blast.

Each Con has its aspects that really scratch the itch of its goers. Do you want to meet one of your favorite actors from a tv show or anime? Well Fan Expo Dallas has that for you. Some of the stand outs were Nicholas Cage, Karl Urban and most of the Fellowship from Lord of the Rings. I personally got Sam Witwer, the voice of Darth Maul from Star Wars, autograph during my visit. It was a long wait but it was worth it. I did feel bad for Sam Witwer because he was under the weather but still showed up for the fans.

It is also interesting to see which actors are popular even years later after their roles have ended. Many of the English voice cast from the Death Note anime had long lines. I love to see the old shows get the love they deserve. But unless you have VIP status expect to be in line for a couple hours for quite a few of the actors. Or get to the con early to be one of the first in line. But just remember you might have to sacrifice other events at the con to wait in the line.

Speaking of other events, there are panels and activities galore for all ages. From actor panels to Pokemon Trivia, there is something for everyone of all ages and fandoms. Just have to plan around other activities you might want to attend. There are great photoshoots and games for kids and the kid in you. My nephews particularly love Star Wars so my brother took some pictures with members of the 501st Stormtrooper group and the Mandalorian legion. These were absolutely free and the craftsmanship of their armor is amazing. I wish I had the talent and the money to pull it off myself.

With that we can’t forget to mention the cosplays. While I have always loved geeky things, cosplay is what got me into going to cons. Seeing the hard work and dedication so many put into their costumes is an inspiration. I’ve cosplayed in the past myself and it was quite expensive and not as amazing as many you see walking around the convention floor. Though be aware there can be quite revealing costumes worn at conventions like these. So keep that in mind when bringing young children to these events. Also be respectful and ask for a picture when possible.

Lastly, there is the food and the collectables. From geeky named fudge to unlimited soda with purchase of a mug, there is something to satisfy your sweet tooth but punish your wallet. You can find all sorts of art and toys as well. So take a stroll down artists alley or visit one of the many vendor booths to drain your wallet but bring home something memorable. Keep in mind, some products can only be found at conventions like Dallas Expo so choose wisely. We picked up some custom Star Wars minifigs for my nephews and in the past I’ve bought some amazing artwork.

All in all I had a great time at this year's Fan Expo Dallas and am excited to attend next year. Hope to see you there.


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Monday, September 21, 2026

LDS Geeks Podcast #74: Crossover Again on the Apricot Tree


Liz (from Pop Culture on the Apricot Tree) contacted me about a new project she's involved with. So we took the opportunity to follow-up my conversation with her co-host Carl with an interview about her and her history as a geek. Enjoy!

--Spencer


Listen to Episode 74 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

Check out Spencer's recent content: click here


Show Notes:
00:12 - Introduction
        LDS Geeks Podcast #37: Crossover Popping on the Apricot Tree
        Show Notes: click here
        Spotify: click here
        Apple Podcasts: click here
        YouTube: click here
00:48 - Spencer's Recommendation: The Avengers
        Available for streaming on Disney Plus
02:30 - Liz's Recommendation: "Shroud" by Adrian Tchaikovsky and "Level-Five Transporter Accident" (Strange New Worlds)
05:38 - Liz's Backstory
09:45 - Backstory of Pop Culture on the Apricot Tree
13:51 - Further Light
        Check it out here
25:44 - Favorite scripture: Isaiah 58:13-14
        "The Mountain of Aslan's Country" by Spencer
30:05 - Top three fandoms: Brandon Sanderson, Harry Potter, CS Lewis
34:15 - Favorite super hero: Quicksilver
35:52 - Preferred super power: Time manipulation


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Friday, September 18, 2026

Shopping for My Kids at Fan Expo Dallas

I had hoped to finally bring my daughter with me to Fan Expo last week for her first Con. However, when I picked her up from first grade with an ear infection, it was obvious she wasn't coming with me. So while I was wandering around the vendor floor, I had my children in mind. I told my wife I wanted to bring them back a surprise after being away all day Saturday at the Con. I had to keep it cheap (and ended up getting them cards of their favorite Pokemon) but I had some other fun ideas along the way.


Ever since my brother got my daughters Squishmallows of Clefairy and Teddiursa, they've been the girls' favorites. So my choice of TCG merch was obvious. Just wish I couldn't gotten the full evolution lines, but I couldn't find Ursaring. It was fun to look through the cards (and I got myself a Blastoise EX to finish off my Squirtle line).

Funko Pops are always a good choice for Con souvenir, but they can get pricey. Plus there are so many Pop vendors that I didn't dare search through them all for the right ones. Some might be cheap, but I didn't feel like navigating the vendor floor for the best deals.


Our baby boy is coming in October (just in time for Halloween) so I was severely tempted to get him a onesie or two. I mean, look at that "Halfling" onesie--I'm not even a big Lord of the Rings fan and it was tempting. Really the biggest reason I didn't come back for one of these was because I was tapped out physically before making my decision and just wanted to leave. I'll get him something geeky off our Amazon registry.


Artist Alley would have been a good place to go shopping for the kids' playroom. Let's be honest though, this purchase would have been for me, not them. Plus I would've probably only gotten one, instead of getting them both something.


Plush is a solid choice for any child and these crocheted snugglables would have been so loved. However, if you've seen my girls' closet, you know they don't need more toys to cuddle. 


My girls have seen bits and pieces of Harry Potter, so anything here would have been purely for me... I wish I'd gone back to get that Hufflepuff wallet. Puffs gonna puff.


Next year I'll have three kids to shop for at Fan Expo (and hopefully a second grader to bring with me). Any merch you like to get your kids? (PS: Ten points to your Hogwarts house if you recognize my cosplay)


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Friday, September 11, 2026

Pokemon Nicknames: Disney (6)

Working my way through replaying Pokemon Yellow and catching more on Pokemon Go (thank you, Explorer Gadget), I have Pokemon on my mind (when don’t I?) so I have another round of fun Disney nicknames for your Pokemon (fun for me at least). Here we go with another handful:

Dedenne as Gus Gus

Nickit as Nick Wilde

Tepig as Pua

Purugly as Machiavelli

Tirtouga as Squirt

Quaxly as Donald

Diglett as Mole

Mantine as Tala

Raboot as Judy Hopps

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Monday, September 7, 2026

LDS Geeks Podcast #73: Animorphs Re-Read (15)


We've come to the end! It's been a fun ride but we had to finish eventually. This time the reading included the Animorphs' last stand, the backstory of the all-powerful Ellimist, and the finale/epilogue. It's insane! (Please forgive the background noise from my family getting ready the morning of recording)
--Spencer

Listen to Episode 73 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

Check out Spencer's recent blog posts: click here

Check out Russell's recent blog posts: click here



Show notes:

00:00:12 - Introductions
        "Riordanverse Reading Schedule" by Spencer
00:02:35 - Spencer's Recommendation: Hercules
        Available for streaming on Disney Plus
00:07:18 - Russell's Recommendation: The Sandlot
        Available for streaming on Disney Plus
        "Benny 'The Jet' Rodriguez and Lessons in Friendship" by Russell
00:12:51 - Reflecting on reading Animorphs
00:16:20 - #53 - The Answer
00:31:29 - Ellimist Chronicles
00:48:27 - #54 - The Beginning
01:13:58 - The End


Animorphs Re-Read Podcast Series:

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Friday, September 4, 2026

Fifth Doctor Revisited: "The Five Doctors"


Working through Doctor Who had to include spotlighting every multi-Doctor story. Especially anniversary episodes. As I said regarding "The Three Doctors", the laws of time may have said you couldn't cross your own timeline, but apparently the Doctor is repeatedly an exception to that. While reports say this story would have been very different if Tom Baker had joined the fun, this was still an amazing crossover. Perhaps not cinematic like "The Day of the Doctor" but still epic. So here are some of my thoughts and ramblings about "The Five Doctors".


Let's start with the First Doctor and Susan. Recasted due to the passing of William Hartnell, the original Doctor appeared in this story, portrayed by Richard Hurndall. He was dragged into the Death Zone first and his capture was the most mundane. He was never companionless throughout his tenure, but his companions were nowhere to be seen. Speaking of companions, his granddaughter Susan was pulled from her time (presumably out of the 22nd Century where he'd left her) to be his companion in the Death Zone. My biggest question about him is why, despite his original assertion to return for Susan, he apparently left her behind again after this story. Also kind of bugged me how little the other Doctors acknowledged their granddaughter Susan.


Next up: The Second Doctor and the Brigadier. At this point, the Second Doctor has already been apprehended in "The War Games". The theory is that the Second Doctor was sent on various missions prior to forced regeneration. That would explain how he knew the fates of Jamie and Zoe. At this point in his timeline, like the Tenth Doctor, he was doing a farewell tour. While visiting the Brigadier of the Fifth Doctor's time, the two were captured and brought into the Death Zone.


The Third Doctor obviously came from the time period he spent with Sarah Jane. However, she came from the time after the Fourth Doctor had left her behind (and left her a K9 as a gift). Why she didn't get after him for leaving her at the opposite end of the United Kingdom? Especially since she treated the Tenth Doctor like she hadn't seen him since Aberdeen. Also take note that the Third Doctor took Seal of the High Council, which would later appear in "The Time of the Doctor". 


Since Tom Baker opted to skip this anniversary story, the Fourth Doctor was addressed as being stuck in a time eddy. This happened to the First Doctor, in "The Three Doctors", but the Fourth Doctor was unable to assist the others. The actual scenes of the Doctor and Romana came from the previously unfinished story "Shada". A clever way to include for the Fourth Doctor in the story.


Despite being the oldest Doctor, Peterson Davison was the youngest actor to play the Doctor for decades (finally relinquishing that title to Matt Smith). It was interesting to see the oldest of the Doctors mentored at times and helped by his younger selves. Perhaps there's a metaphor there about learning from your past. I might be more mature than I was as a college freshman, but there are still things to learn from that 18-year-old. Also, as a side note, I loved seeing Tegan adventuring across the Death Zone with the First Doctor.


Even though many claim that Doctor Who has been cancelled (it's on hiatus), epic stories like this remind me of the potential of the series. This story taught lessons about fear, immortality, and progression (and being careful what you wish for). It's definitely one of those stories I love to rewatch (even bought it on DVD back in the day). Even if the show is cancelled, the show is always keen to regenerate. There's always more to come.


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