A lil' bit about me. 

Just who the heck am I?

Well, I'm bat. There's a start. I'm a twenty-something internet junkie who discovered Squidoo through a good friend of mine (*cough*blondeheroine*cough*) and got hooked. I actually went to college for Web Design, but Squidoo is so dang easy it's a dream!

I grew up and still live in the fantastic bit of land known as the state of Oregon. Luckily I've gotten to do some traveling; the continental 48, Canada, Alaska, and England. I'm still pretty much a West Coaster at heart and spend some of my time in Washington and California as well when I get the chance.

Currently I've returned to get my certification in Medical Insurance Coding & Billing. Even though it eats up most of my time, I still spare a few minutes to keep my lenses fresh and plot out some new ones.

Why these topics? 

Explaining my lens topics.

As you can guess, I have a bit of the eclectic taste going on. Entertainment is a big part of my life; books, music, movies, television, theater... the more the better.

Reading has been one of my greatest passions since early childhood. My parents got me interested in music and while my taste in music vastly differs from theirs, we all appreciate a good tune. Movies became huge during my junior/high school years, and I even dabbled in making my own short films for a while. I never seem to do things by halves, and my condo is crammed with books, DVDs, and CDs.

Another collection I maintain is my Hallowe'en and bat collectibles. Most people are pretty surprised that I keep Hallowe'en items out year round. I figure if you enjoy it keep it out to enjoy all the time! I especially love bats (if it's not obvious!) and have well over one hundred various figurines, plush, and other types of bats through-out my condo.

So that's how I've chosen what topics to make lenses on. All things I love and think others would like.

I'm also a Giant Squid! 

On July 2nd, 2008, I reached the pinnacle of success here on Squidoo by achieving Giant Squid status! 52 lenses already published and many more to make!

More About Me 

If you're that curious!

Bat

The lens you're reading right now!

Bat's Photography

I don't claim to be a great photographer, but I do like taking pictures! The subject can be anything as long as you hand me a camera. Here's some of my favorites!

bat's tattoos

As a fan of body art in general, even from a young age I knew I would get tattooed. At 18 I got my first ink. Six tattoos later, I intend to add more!

Miss bat's Tumblr 

My Tumblr blog keeps track of recently published lenses, updates and changes to my lens collection, and other random bits of info.

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Bat's Library 

Books I'm currently reading.

The Thirteenth Tale: A Novel

by Diane Setterfield

A mysterious letter arrives asking for the truth to be revealed at last.

Amazon Price: $10.20 (as of 07/26/2008)

Half Life: A Novel

by Shelley Jackson

Shelley Jackson's, of the SKIN Project fame, first novel.

Amazon Price: $18.96 (as of 07/26/2008)

Sundays with Vlad: From Pennsylvania to Transylvania, One Man's Quest to Live in the World of the Undead

by Paul Bibeau

One's man journey to find the reason the vampire legend of Vlad the Impaler is so powerful.

Amazon Price: $11.86 (as of 07/26/2008)

Hollywood & Vine 

Silver Screen Lenses

Alex Winter

At home behind the camera as well as in front of it, Alex Winter is best known for his role as Bill S. Preston, Esq. in Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. He's gained fans through the cult classics The Lost Boys and Freaked.

Angus Sutherland

Youngest son of Donald Sutherland, Angus Sutherland is following his father and brothers to the silver screen. Soon to be seen in Lost Boys: The Tribe and Familiar Strangers.

Billy Wirth

Model-turned actor Billy Wirth has carved out a career in Hollywood over the last two decades. With roles in The Lost Boys, Red Shoe Diaries, as well as guest spots on popular television series, Billy has also found himself behind the camera, writing and directing MacArthur Park.

Brooke McCarter

Mainly known for his character Paul in The Lost Boys, Brooke McCarter was a model and a racquetball player before turning to acting in the 1980's.

Coraline

Based on Neil Gaiman's novella, Coraline tells the story of a young girl who takes an adventure in a parallel reality. The stop-motion animated film is set for release on February 6th, 2009.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's story, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is set to open December 19th, 2008 in theaters. An all-star cast includes Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, and Tilda Swinton.

David

David, the young, sexy leader of The Lost Boys, has become one of the most beloved vampires in the history of horror movies. From his trademark smirk and black trench coat, who doesn't love David?

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett reprises her role as Queen Elizabeth I of England in Elizabeth: The Golden Age. Now that she has risen to power and taken the thrown Elizabeth must keep control, protect herself, her country and her people.

Kiefer Sutherland

Having made over seventy films in a distinguished 20-plus years career, Kiefer Sutherland continues to cast a spell over audiences with his acting abilities. A man of many characters, his most famous to date is that of Federal Agent Jack Bauer on FOX's hit "real time" series 24.

Kiefer Sutherland Video Clips

With more then 20 years in the entertainment industry Kiefer Sutherland has not only given us memorable film moments and characters, but also given us great interviews and television moments.

Lost Boys: The Tribe

The sequel to the cult classic The Lost Boys is set to be released in July 2008. Set 20 years after the events of the original movie, Chris and Nicole Emerson find more than they bargain for when they move to Luna Bay and meet Shane and his friends.

The Lost Boys Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Released in July 1987, the soundtrack to The Lost Boys has become one of the most popular motion picture soundtracks in history. Featuring INXS & Jimmy Barnes, Echo and the Bunnymen, Lou Gramm, Gerard McMann, and more, it includes the hit song Cry Little Sister (Theme From The Lost Boys).

The Lost Boys

One of the cult classic films of the 1980s, The Lost Boys took vampires to a new level in cinema history and paved the way for Buffy the Vampire Slayer and countless others. With an all-star cast including Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Feldman, Corey Haim, and Jason Patric.

The Lost Boys vs The Tribe

The Lost Boys vs The Tribe Twenty years after the original Warner Bros decides to release a sequel to The Lost Boys. Entitled Lost Boys: The Tribe, it continues the story from the first movie. But why make a sequel now? Why after all these years?

The Lost Boys: Reign of Frogs

What happens twenty years between The Lost Boys and Lost Boys: The Tribe? Fans of the cult classic are set to find out via the four-part comic series The Lost Boys: Reign of Frogs!

Some of my favorites: Movies 

The Lost Boys (Two-Disc Special Edition)

The vampire cult classic that gave me a life-long crush on Kiefer Sutherland. These hip vampires paved the way for the likes of Buffy and Angel.

Amazon Price: $21.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Star Wars Episode IV - A New Hope (1977 & 2004 Versions, 2-Disc Widescreen Edition)

I am a self-admitted Star Wars junkie. And you can do no better then the cinema classic Episode IV, the movie that started the whole saga!

Amazon Price: $14.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Robin Hood (Most Wanted Edition)

My favorite version of Robin Hood!

Amazon Price: $19.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

The Worst Witch (The Movie)

One of my favorite Halloween kiddie classics. Long before Harry Potter there was Mildred Hubble!

Amazon Price: $12.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (Widescreen Special Edition)

I drove my mom nuts by singing along to this classic childrens book come to life via Gene Wilder fantastic performace.

Amazon Price: $12.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Rock 'n' Roll! 

Music & Musician Lenses

The Exotic Birds

Formed in 1983 in Cleveland, OH, The Exotic Birds were a popular New Wave/Pop band who hit the music scene and played to a strong following at local clubs. Members included the likes of Andy Kubiszewski, Trent Reznor, and Chris Vrenna.

Apartment 31: Goon Moon Videos

Formed in 2005 by Jeordie White and Chris Goss, Goon Moon is an eclectic side project. With their first album Licker's Last Leg released in 2007, fans are eagerly anticipating what will come next from this duo.

Our Videos To Admire: Interpol Videos

Formed in 1998 in New York City, Interpol hit the big time with their critically acclaimed first album Turn On the Bright Lights. Oft compared to Joy Division, their sound is full of throbbing base and sparse guitar.

Jeordie White

The bassist known as 'Twiggy Ramirez' in the shock-rock group Marilyn Manson has done more then just drool and wear a dress on stage. With time served in the likes of A Perfect Circle and Nine Inch Nails, Jeordie has started his own band called Goon Moon with some help from Chris Goss.

Josh Homme

Regularly referred to as the undisputed "King of Desert Rock", in his nearly-20 year career, Josh Homme has left a lasting musical imprint on the world at large.

NIN Video Vault

Since 1989, Nine Inch Nails have changed the perceptions and creation of rock music. Headed by Trent Reznor, with sonic sound-scapes and driving guitars NIN's music has impacted generations.

Nine Inch Nails

Formed in 1988 by Trent Reznor, Nine Inch Nails (or NIN) has become a world-famous industrial act. In 1994 NIN became a house-hold name with a performance at the 1994 Woodstock Festival and the release of the critically-acclaimed album The Downward Spiral.

Option 30 Video-o-Rama

Long before the days when he was a rock star heading Nine Inch Nails, Trent Reznor performed in a Cleveland-based band known as Option 30. Performing mostly covers of popular tunes at the time, they proved you can make it big after you break up.

QOTSA Video-A-Go-Go

Forged in Palm Desert, CA, Josh Homme has helmed the 'revolving door' roster of musicians that make up Queens of the Stone Age since 1997. Constantly changing the perceptions of 'rock 'n' roll' not to mention made several memorable music videos to boot.

Trent Reznor

Gifted with an ear for music and a talent for breaking boundaries, Trent Reznor is one of the most influential artists in the world. The genius behind Nine Inch Nails has changed the face of music and left a lasting impact on generations.

Capital T: Trent Reznor Video Clips

The man behind Nine Inch Nails has given his fans many music videos, done multiple entertaining and insightful interviews, and even given the band its own YouTube channel. Here's a collection of just a fraction of what you can find.

Twiggy Ramirez

Twiggy Ramirez was the dreadlocked and drooling bass player for the shock rock band Marilyn Manson. In 2002, Jeordie White dropped the persona and left the band to tour with the likes of A Perfect Circle and Nine Inch Nails. In 2007, after a five year break, Jeordie once again became Twiggy Ramirez

Some of my favorites: Music 

Pretty Hate Machine

Nine Inch Nails' debut album is a must-own for any music collection. Continuing to prove almost twenty years later why Trent Reznor is a genius.

Amazon Price: $21.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Superunknown

One of the first albums I bought with my own money at 13, the album that made Soundgarden a household name through-out the world is still dark, hard, and quintisentally grunge rock.

Amazon Price: $9.97 (as of 07/26/2008)

Mechanical Animals

Marilyn Manson's third album holds a special place in my heart and reminds me of a lot of good times. Which is probably really strange to associate with the shock rock group, but I was a huge fan back in the day.

Amazon Price: $12.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Cabin Fever

Rasputina's third album is full of some of my most favorite songs. I've had the honour of seeing Melora & Co live seven times. The only band that could ever be worthy of the title 'cello rock'!

Amazon Price: $14.98 (as of 07/26/2008)

Era Vulgaris

The lastest album from Queens of the Stone Age, it's proven itself irresistable to my stereo and I can't stop listening to it. I'm strangely addicted to all things Josh Homme records.

Amazon Price: $12.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Lense Grab Bag 

Stand Alone Lenses

Charles Addams

Charles Samuel Addams (January 7, 1912-September 29, 1988) was the master of black humor and macabre characters. At the age of 21, his first cartoon was published in The New Yorker. With a body of work that spans nearly 60 years and thousands of drawings, Addams is part of pop culture history.

Diseases You Can Catch From Your Towels

The next time you use a towel improperly, you might fall victim to one of the following contagions that's lurking on your towel!

Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Holiday

What do you get when you cross Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas and the Haunted Mansion? The Haunted Mansion Holiday of course! From October to December since 2001, the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland has been transformed into this magical holiday wonderland.

Joshua Tree National Park

Created a national park only thirteen years ago, this pristine wilderness has been a US National Monument since 1936. Home to loads of flora and fauna, the park derives its name from the tree-like Joshua Tree plants that load the landscape.

Mardi Gras Party

Who says you can't have your own home-made Mardi Gras party? I say you can and here's how!

Piper Halliwell

Originally the middle of three sisters, Piper Halliwell took on the role of the eldest of the Charmed Ones. Blessed with the power of temporal stasis, Piper is most happy in the kitchen cooking. Married to Leo Wyatt, the couple are proud parents of Wyatt, Chris, and Melinda.

Shirley Jackson

The magical spell woven in words by authoress Shirley Jackson has captivated, frightened, and awed readers for decades. Her rise to literary fame came in 1948 when The Lottery was published.

The Simpson's Edition Of...

Everyone loves playing games, especially the classics like Sorry!, Uno, Life, and Clue! Why not play the Simpson editions of your favorites, combing two favorites into one! Check out the Simpson editions of these family favorites!

Thanksgiving Costumes

Dressing up in costumes isn't just for Halloween anymore! Celebrate Thanksgiving with a traditional Pilgrim costume! Part of a school play about the first Thanksgiving? Find your costume here!

Some of my favorites: Television 

24 - Season Four

One of my favorite action shows, the fourth season of 24 was its best.

Amazon Price: $53.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

C.S.I. Crime Scene Investigation - The Complete Fifth Season

CSI brought forensic investigation to the forefront of the public mind. I just love the gore and science! Season 5 was the best of the best!

Amazon Price: $34.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

Hex - The Complete First Season

This British import is a supernatural series about a girl who's best friend is a ghost. And the man in love with her is head of the Nephilim. Talk about awkward.

Amazon Price: $38.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

House, M.D. - Season One

House is the exact kind of doctor I'd want. Brilliant mind with full-on sarcastic delivery. Genius!

Amazon Price: $44.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

The Simpsons - The Complete Seventh Season

My favorite animated family! Season 7 contains my favorite episode of all time, 'Bart Sells His Soul'.

Amazon Price: $37.99 (as of 07/26/2008)

This is Halloween! 

My favorite holiday, after my birthday of course.

Addams Family Halloween Costumes

Originally dreamed up by cartoonist Charles Addams, Gomez, Morticia and their family were brought to the masses in the by the 1960s classic television show The Addams Family.

Batty Costumes

Bats are an iconic image associated with the most haunted holiday of the year. So why not dress up as one for Halloween! Find loads of bat costumes and accessories to give you a bat-tastic night!

Darth Vader Halloween Costume

That sinister breathing, that gigantic form clad in black, that mask... Darth Vader is the original villain! And who better then to dress up as for Halloween?!

Hairspray Halloween Costumes

Love the 2007 film Hairspray? Looking for a Halloween costume? Check this lens out for costumes inspired by all your favorite Hairspray characters!

Halloween Tarot

Tarot is a tradtional form of divination, that roughly dates back to the late 16th ceuntry. For those that love both Tarot cards and Halloween, there is now a deck devoted to Halloween imagery.

Harry Potter Halloween Costumes

JK Rowling's beloved series about the boy wizard Harry Potter has captivated children and adults alike. Now you can dress up and be your favorite wizard! Don't forget your wand!

Iron Man Costume

From the comic pages to one of the hottest summer blockbusters of 2008, Iron Man is one of Marvel Comic's legendary superheroes. Now you can be Iron Man for Halloween! Unleash your inner Tony Stark and save the world!

Jack Skellington and Sally Halloween Costumes

Since the 1993 release of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas, Jack Skellington and Sally have become fan favorites. Now you can dress up as the Pumpkin King and his lovely rag doll for Halloween!

Princess Leia Halloween Costume

Who is the original warrior princess? Princess Leia, of course! From her 'cinnamon bun' hairdo and white gown to the infamous slave girl metal bikini, Leia is one of the hottest women in the known galaxy! Now you can dress up as her for Halloween!

Robin Hood Costumes

The original outlaw, Robin Hood is the everyman hero. With his bravado, cocky attitude, and sharp wit, what could make a better Halloween costume? Don't forget your bow and arrows!

The Simpsons Halloween Costumes

For over 20 years The Simpsons have made us laugh with their antics. 19 episodes of Simpson Halloween specials, called "Treehouse of Horror", have aired, proving Halloween is the Simpson family's favorite holiday.

Star Wars Costumes

Since the 1977 release of Star Wars, millions of fans around the world have been captivated by the story of the Skywalker family. Now you too can dress as your favorite Star Wars character!

Wolf in Sheep's Clothing Halloween Costume

I tend to pick some really strange Hallowe'en costumes. Sometimes the more obscure the better! Last year I recreated a 'wolf in sheep's clothing' take from Queens of the Stone Age's Someone's In the Wolf music video. Here's how you can do create it as well.

Some of my favorites: Halloween! 

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

The utmost Halloween cartoon classic!

Amazon Price: (as of 07/26/2008)

Simpsons Tree House of Horrors Monopoly

Favorite boardgame + favorite holiday + favorite animated family? WIN! (And I always use The Collector token; I swear the writers stole that title from NIN's song!)

Amazon Price: $35.98 (as of 07/26/2008)

The Nightmare Before Christmas: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

A movie that could combine two favorite holidays with music and fantastic creatures? It instantly became one of my favorites!

Amazon Price: (as of 07/26/2008)

The Halloween Tarot Deck and Book Set

by Karin Lee, Kipling West

My favorite Tarot deck, packed with Halloween imagery!

Amazon Price: $19.14 (as of 07/26/2008)

Last.FM 

What I've been listening to today.

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Drop me a line! 

Wanna say hi? Like my lenses? Feel the need to comment? Do so here!

EelKat great job! nice list of lenses here Posted April 07, 2008

riff999 Great lens. I have to agree Halloween is great. I love everything about it. ~Jane Posted April 06, 2008

Susan52 Lenrolling yours to mine. Love it! Posted April 05, 2008

GypsyPirate What a great lensography - super job! Posted October 09, 2007