Poor Carl. He’s been burned by our chocolate practical jokes so many times that he now views the most innocuous-looking squares with the utmost suspicion. There was the time I failed to tell him that the dark chocolate bar he was about to taste concealed pieces of sinus-blasting peppercorns. And the time I suggested he sample a bag of dark chocolate dusted cocoa beans, correctly predicting his panicky, grimaced reaction. And the time Lawren switched out a bar of sweet 60% dark for a mouth-puckering 100% cocoa. And, every time Carl’s eyes would roll back in their sockets, everyone in the writers’ room would celebrate: whooping and hollering and exchanging high-fives on yet another mission accomplished, another job well done. So, sure, we have steered him wrong one or maybe six times, but is that any reason to doubt us? We’re his co-workers after all. His friends. And his obvious distrust is, well, hurtful. Today, he picked up the bar of 62% dark I’d set down on the table and studied the wrapper intently before carefully unwrapping it and breaking off a piece. He warily eyed the square, brought it up to his mouth, then froze and threw me an uncertain look. “It’s fine,”I assured him. Clearly not convinced, he gave the chocolate another long, hard look and then, following a final quick glance in my direction, popped the piece into his mouth and chewed. Beat. He nodded, satisfied and very much relieved. Until – “I dropped it in the toilet!”I revealed. Whoops. Hollers. High-fives. Unfortunately, he wasn‘t buying it. Damn. So much for psychological warfare. I’ll have to come up with an bigger and better gag for next time. Hey, do they still make chocolate-covered Ex-Lax? Just wondering.

We watched the Prod cuts of Midway and Harmony this morning. Fantastic episodes both. Then, this afternoon, we had an extra special guest drop by for a visit. Bob Picardo had swung by for his costume fitting AND to drop off a gift for the pugs, compliments of him and his lovely wife Linda (Check out Bony Barney – the perfect Halloween accessory for those nervous dogs!) Bob is, of course, in town to shoot his scenes for the big season finale, The Last Man, and came up with a fun idea regarding the outfit Woolsey should be wearing in this episode. It won’t be his standard suit.

Today’s blog is dedicated to Lady Conure who will be going in for heart surgery later this month.

Today’s pics are compliments of Lawren Bancroft-Wilson: a photo diary of Lulu’s day at the office which includes a terrific snap of Carl discovering just how sharp her little teeth are.

Today’s video: Click on the date for a video of Lulu enjoying(?) her new gift.

Let’s wade through the various angry posts and find some questions or comments to field –

Elizabeth writes: “ 1) Is Cassie or Jack mentioned in S4 of Atlantis? 2) Why isn’t Carter getting the ATA gene? Is the fact that Carter was a Tokra host going to addressed in S4 of Atlantis? 3) Any alternate reality/time travel/people from the future stories coming up?”

Answers: 1) No comment. 2) Given that we’ve had the gene therapy since season one of Atlantis, and given that SG-1 has come across Ancient tech in the Milky Way galaxy, then it stands to reason that Carter would have already underwent the gene therapy. If that’s the case, and she doesn’t have the active gene, then clearly the therapy failed. In answer to the second question – no. 3) No comment.

Danielle writes: “Will any other characters from SG-1 besides Teal’c and Sam will be seen on Atlantis? Vala perhaps? Maybe Daniel? Cameron even?”

Answer: Not in season four. Although if we do get a fifth season pick up, it would make a lot of sense to have Daniel Jackson drop by for a visit. And, if Ben’s not too busy, it would be nice to have Cam drop by at some point as well.

Vern writes: “1) Is Lulu enjoying her stay with you at the office? 2) How many days/weeks to hiatus and three (or four?) months of no production headaches?” 3) Can I leave my e-mail addy for you so I can send Lulu a get well e-card (or vice versa)?

Answers: 1) Yes. She’s loving the attention. 2) That depends entirely on when we hear about next season. 3) Sure.

Zabadoo writes: “ 1.)Will there be any three-parters in the same vein as Reckoning/Threads, The Siege, or Avalon/Origin this season? 2.)Will Martin Gero be writing any McKay-centric episodes this season? 3.)Any chance of getting O’Neill in the fifth season of Atlantis? 4.)Any chance of getting Daniel and O’Neill coming to Atlantis in the same episode next season? 5.)Any Ford ideas as of late?”

Answers: 1) This Mortal Coil, Be All My Sins Remember’d, and Spoils of War are tenuously-linked three-parters. 2) Miller’s Crossing. 3) I don’t know. 4) If we get the pick-up, getting Daniel on Atlantis will be a priority. 5) None.

Lady Conure writes: “I will be at home for the actual airing of the new SGA episode then will in the hospital for a while.”

Answer: Good luck on your surgery. And did you receive the email I sent you a couple of days ago? I haven’t heard back.

Mel writes: “So, what are you going to do during the season hiatus?”

Answer: Read. A lot. Maybe do some writing. Hopefully.

Allison writes: “Have you ever thought about coming down and talking at SXSW in Austin?”

Answer: What’s SXSW? I’d love to visit Texas. Could you recommend any good steakhouses?

Anonymous #1 a ecrit: “Est-ce que t’es fache avec moi?”

Reponse: Er…non.

Anonymous #2 writes: “1-)Who is your nemesis and what super powers does he/she/it has? 2-)And what super power does The Baron Has?”

Baron Destructo answers: 1) Fool. My arch-nemesis is, of course, Captain Spectacular and his Confederacy of Justice. The cast of Rules of Engagement comes in a close second. 2) Besides my army of neural-linked battle-droids, my ultra-reinforced servo bitch-slap gauntlets, my Vidralian undergarments, and my all-proof micro-mesh purple velvet cape, my greatest weapon is, if course, my thoroughly engaging personality. What can I say? People love me. Thank you for asking, human scum.

Anonymous #3 writes: “Toe socks yay or nay?”

Baron Destructo answers: Oh. And my bio-luminescent toe socks. Dolt.

Anonymous #4 writes: “You’re blog is very popular. What do you attribute its success to?”

Answer: 12-15 extremely loyal fans constantly hitting their refresh buttons.

Dream-of-Skies writes: “What the devil ARE Tuxedo bars? You didn’t tell us!!!!”

Answer: To be honest, I don’t know. If I had to hazard a guess, I’d say they’re sticks of butter rolled in crushed oreos and corn syrup, then deep-fried after which they are dipped in chocolate and glazed with caramel.

Emily writes: “Will the fact that Sheppard obviously has an Elf gene ever come in to play this season?”

Answer: We’re saving this revelation for the big stick-fighting three-parter.

117 thoughts on “September 19, 2007

  1. Ah! Just a little over a week! I can’t wait!! I’m sooooo excited!! 🙂

    Can I have a blog dedication due to the fact that I got my license today despite being sick?

    And, of course, what query should I ask of you? I’m not sure…hmmmm…oh! What is the funniest thing any of your dogs have ever done?

  2. LOL stick fights…… LOL

    While at it. Shep needs his bottle too and his diaper change. You can do a two parter on that as well.

  3. Are those post-its on Lulu’s ‘cone’? Production notes? Requests? Love Notes?

  4. Hey Joe

    I was wondering the same thing today.. whether chocolate x-lax still is out there. My sister and I ate a whole bar when were little, wondering the whole time why my parents had chosen the bathroom as their latest secret hiding place for the good chocolate.
    Some mistakes you only make once in your life.
    Will Shepherd be at all unhappy or pleased about reliquishing command to Carter? Col. Ellis had said that he should be in command last year so will Shepherd resent someone new coming in and taking his command away?

    When does Lulu get her lovely cone fashion accessory off?
    Get well soon Lulu.

  5. Joe, that is the cutest video. Just had to let you know.

    Thanks for all the videos, pics, tid-bits, hilarity and schemes. Keep on truckin’.

  6. WHEN we get a 5th season the idea of both Cam and Shep in some action episode where they could show off a bit, would be a fun time I think.

    Come on two airforce pilots? Whats not to love about that 😛

  7. Joe-

    Exlax does indeed still make chocolate laxatives. But be warned. A friend of mine -a high ranking (GS-15) US federal government official in the Dept of Justice – used to make coffee and brownies with them and bring them in on meeting days to keep meetings brief. One day he over did it and a co-worker ended up in the hospital for weeks and no one had any idea why. You would think that would have discouraged him from doing it again (besides fear of being fired, losing a pension, lawsuit, etc.), but he did it until he retired. So please be careful with our dear Carl!!!

  8. OMG!! That picture is tooo funny – All hail Queen Lulu, long may she live!!!

    The vid was adorable, her bark sounds kinda hoarse, always like that? or cuz of collar?

    Could only pick up HogFather, as they only had 3 Ian Banks books in the store. Hogfather sounds funny.

    and a just BTW – don’t you ever get tired of the same old questions and the people asking questions the “beating a dead horse” questions; ie, Elizabeth and the impact on the other characters to Sam coming to Atlantis. It’s a TV show, it’s gonna change. I think ER (which I stopped watching about 3 years ago)only has a few recurring characters/nurses who have been on since it began. Also I loved Vala, I think she brought out a spark in Daniel, that hadn’t been there in awhile. I love Ben Browder, and grew to like the character of Cam, but did feel not enough development there – (I’m a Farscape fan and he was brilliant as Crichton)

    Well finally got some of that out.

  9. Joe: Another reader mentioned Austin… I live here and I can heartily recommend Austin Land & Cattle on 12th & Lamar (NOT Texas Land & Cattle) if you’re looking for a fierce steak.

    SXSW is a huge festival: film, interactive media and music. I suspect the film part could be interesting for the Stargate crew in terms of talking shop about the straight-to-DVD market of the movies or simply being on a making-television panel.

    You and Paul and company have done a great job of getting a guy curious about the coming season. I can’t wait to see “Adrift” and “Lifeline.”

  10. Hi Joe,
    Just picked up the season 3 DVD set and am going through them marathon style to prepare for the season 4 premiere.
    So, I have this question….. What is it with the Stargate universe and underwear? In SG1’s “Ripple Effect” we were treated to Ben Browder’s white boxer-briefs[thank you!]. And now on one of the special features we can all put to rest the boxer or brief question when thinking of Mr.Flanigan. But, seriously, did Joe F. even know he was flashing everyone his striped boxers or was this another fashion statement[black wrist band]?

    Enjoying the blog, and to answer one of your questions, you can actually make chocolate Ex-Lax. Take your favorite chocolate, melt it, add the Ex-Lax, let it cool and Blam! Bob’s your uncle. Though I’ll tell you, chocolate mousse a la Ex-Lax works much better.

  11. LOL–Big stick fighting 3 parter? Hopefully this episode will also include Shepprd singing a Johnny Cash tune 😉

    You’ve been getting alot of quesitons about whether or not Daniel or O’Neill will be coming to Atlantis, so I’m sorry to add to the growing pile, but here goes. I had two questions:

    1) If either were to appear would it be ocurring on a post-Contiuum timeline or are you treating that as a seperate entity right now?

    2) You mentioned some time ago (sorry been away for a while) that you and RDA were chatting about the Simpsons movie–what did you and, or he think of it?

    Thanks a million,

    Royal

  12. Hey Joe,
    Lulu is hilarious and has a wonderful…er, speaking voice. I have a papillion who is dumb as a bag of hammers, apparently pets do take after there owners, but thank god she’s cute. If you would like I could email a picture. Let me know.

  13. Yay!! Daniel on Atlantis!!!! I can’t wait. Oh, and I hope it’s like O’neill in The Return, where Daniel IS the episode. Some huge archeologic discovery is right up his ally, and just what THE CITY OF THE FRIGGIN’ ANCIENTS needs.

  14. Your blog continues to be an awesome read. As for the chocolate laxatives, I’m pretty sure they’re still around, though it’s pretty easy to make your own.

  15. Anonymous #3 writes: “Toe socks yay or nay?”

    I had to do a double take as I first thought this read “Toe sucks yay or nay?”

    Then I laughed my butt off when I realized my mistake! 😀
    LOLOLOL

  16. Do you come back to Montreal on a routine basis?
    I am also determined to win the prized vile of sand.

  17. Hi, Joe. Thanks for answering our questions.

    On GateWorld, the episode Trio is listed as 416 and Harmony is 417. Is this the correct order? Trio seems to be a 3 person show (duh!) and Harmony seems to be that way also. Since the common person in each trio is McKay, do you think people will be grumbling yet again about too much McKay? Personally, I think you can never have too much Rodney, but I just want to know if I have to be ready to defend him (again!).

  18. Elizabeth writes: “ 1) Is Cassie or Jack mentioned in S4 of Atlantis?

    Answers: 1) No comment.

    ~~~

    ah oh, wily joe’s done it again. :p
    so is it cassie or jack that’s mentioned (but of course you’re making no comment on)?

    ~that sly joe~

    my question: is replicarter dead for sure? she was a great villain played *wonderfully* by amanda. 🙂

    sally 🙂

  19. “Anonymous said…
    WHEN we get a 5th season the idea of both Cam and Shep in some action episode where they could show off a bit, would be a fun time I think.

    Come on two airforce pilots? Whats not to love about that :-P”

    OOhh we can now settle who’s the pissing contest champ once and for all. Can’t wait.

  20. Is that camera/gaff tape on Lulu’s cone? The crew’s way of making their mark or has the pup managed to break the thing enough to warrant tape???

    And I love how she waits a beat after Barney stops barking. It’s like she’s been hanging around a lot of actors picking up tips. Hmmm…

  21. 1)Would you classify any of the episodes as being “scary”?

    2)Is there a long guest list for The Last Man?

  22. Everyone seems to be getting along today!

    Happy now!

    Have you ever considered not allowing the anonymous posts? I’m not suggesting you do that, but I could see you thinking along those lines as some of them seem to be the people who argue with each other a lot and those who drop in only once in a while to ask the same questions that have been asked a million times.

    Although, I guess you would have a lot less comments/questions and would be stuck with the same people that have signed up here, asking you the same things we always do. 😉

  23. What kind of name is Lawren for a man? He should sue his parents. It’s a girls name, just with a different spelling.

    It’s interesting also to read that the Carter fans have been at war with the Jackson fans for years. What’s that about? I don’t understand it.

    I only heard about it when the Carter fans started gloating and bragging with their sigs all over GW that Carter’s the new leader and Weir’s gone. That’s when I looked deeper and realised that the Carter fans have been giving everyone grief.

  24. Getting really excited for season four now! And I imagine you’re looking forward to the break.
    Now a slightly random question – what kind of temprament do french bulldogs have? I have a bull mastiff and she’s placid as anything, but in my experience smaller dogs tend to more exitable and a bit rougher.

  25. Hi Joe, just trawled through 2 days of entries to discover my questions from yesterday were not answered, but hey, I guess it must be boring, being asked the same questions all the time. Guess I’ll have to go back to the beginning to read.

    As always, thanks for the pictures and videos.

  26. Yay! You answered my questions! Thank you!

    No comment? Oh man.

    Cute dog pics!

    The tuxedo bars don’t sound very good any more.

    Please, please, please answer my questions. 1) Are Sheppard and Teyla ever going to hook up? 2) When you get renewed for season five are you going to be keeping Sam around or bringing back Weir? 3) Why is the episode Trio called Trio? And why are all the pics from that episode either showing people in mid-air or twenty feet off the ground on wooden beams? Are they in a barn?

    Thank you. Really cool blog.

  27. Love the Elizabethan Lulu portrait. Very royal.

    I went to my local public library to get the book club selections…one was all checked out and one they didn’t have. 🙁 I’m gonna check out our local used book stores for them tomorrow…otherwise I may be forced to buy them new. God, I’m cheap.

    What are your thoughts on dystopias? Got a favorite?

  28. Bonjour Joe !

    Alors tout d’abord, je vais m’adresser aux fans francophones, par pitié, quand vous ecrivez en francais, ayez au moins la decence d’ecrire correctement, deja moi j’ai du mal a vous comprendre alors pour un non francophone, pitié! Joe fait l’effort de nous lire en francais et de repondre, ce n’est pas si dur que ca d’ecrire correctement. Et le vouvoiement reste avant tout une marque de respect, les “tu” et par exemple hier “tu me fais la tete ?” … ??? pitié !!! On écrit pas a notre meilleur ami la, un peu de reflexion ne ferait pas de mal je crois !

    Bref moi ca m’insupporte, apres il ne faut pas s’etonner de ne pas avoir de reponse, je ne suis pas bilingue non plus mais j’ai la possibilité d’ecrire un minimum en anglais donc je le fais. Apres si on ne peut pas, ecrire en francais reste une bonne idée puisque Joe comprend, mais faites un effort ! De meme qu’un bonjour n’a jamais tué personne !

    So, joe, it’s your turn now …

    First of all, all my best sent to Lulu the 4th (in the Mallozzi Kingdom), and some questions to you :

    1) What kind of music do you like ?
    2) Did you see “a dog’s breakfast” ? If no, do you plan to see it ? If yes, what did you think of it ?
    3) Who decide what behind the scene will be in the DVD ?
    4) Where is Peter DeLuise ? we don’t hear about him. Is he working on something else than Stargate ?
    5 )If we suceed to organise a french convention (as we try to) about Stargate and Sanctuary, would you think of coming ? (and maybe, try to convince for us, more people from Stargate to come ?)

    Have a nice day !

    PS : Sorry for my mistakes, as you might have understood, i’m French 😀

    Marinanoo

  29. 1)So far all the wraiths given names on the shows are male, will any females get the joy of receiving human names in S4? 2)If you were to write a novel, What would it be about? 3) Do you like Peanut butter, or do you stick mostly with Natella?

  30. Stick fighting three parter? That’s not to be the premise of the entire seasons five through seven? I feel robbed.

  31. What do you think is a realistic expectation for the ratings for the premiere? 1.7 or 1.8? Or are those days over for Stargate?

  32. I want one! Whenever I see dogs or babies I tell everyone that I want one. But as a baby dog, Lulu is the cutest…

    How heavy is she now? Is she starting to get solidly wombat-like?

  33. Emily writes: “Will the fact that Sheppard obviously has an Elf gene ever come in to play this season?”

    Answer: We’re saving this revelation for the big stick-fighting three-parter.

    Forgive me for being so forward, but I love you. In a completely non-stalker-y way, of course.

  34. Well Lulu doesn’t appear to be suffering too much – given the tape on her collar (I originally thought it was a couple post-its – good place for reminders: pick up milk, story ideas for season 5, plots for taking over the world – all in a fairly handy and secure place).

  35. As for chocolate gags, there is the time we took a big, round sponge and covered it in chocolate frosting and put candles on it. Just a thought.

  36. You do realise the diverse chocolate prank karma police are probably writing out your warrant as you plan your next episode of torment on poor Carl….right? 😉

  37. Thanks for the funny story, it’s good to know that everyone has a good sense of humor. You’d better watch out though, it sounds like Carl will eventually take his revenge. Do you think he’ll try for something simple like chocolate EX-LAX or something loud, like a giant mock up of you doing something embarrassing?
    Good luck in avoiding retribution. You might just keep Lulu with you, he can’t do anything to you while your holding your puppy.

  38. “12-15 extremely loyal fans constantly hitting their refresh buttons.”
    I admit to visiting your page several times on some days. I have it bookmarked and hit that accidentally, or check a bit too often. I’m glad blogger doesn’t have a bandwidth limit…er I hope.

    Lulu has amazing ears, it makes her expression pop. Has she managed to get the collar off yet? My dog did it several times when he had it on. See his embarrassment here: http://tinyurl.com/2jn8se

    I hope you guys are coping well with Lulu’s recovery. She seems to be doing well…

    Could I have the blog dedicated to my friend mshopalong? She found two six week old puppies on the street infested with worms and brought them home. She’s an angel.

  39. Given that it seems like actors are always on diets or watching their weight, are there any cast members who you would call a fellow foodie?

  40. First of all, please excuse my english,it`s not my mother lenguage. Lulu is soo cute, poor thing,it´s imposible to keep those damn collars clean. Hey, can we have more drama in this season?, like Grace (7×13) kind of drama?

  41. SXSW is the music/film/etc festival in March. I think you’d have a blast. Here’s the link: http://2008.sxsw.com/film/
    Do you think you’ll every attend?

    And sorry, ironically Austin’s not big in the way of steaks. But if you’re looking for ribs, gah! Check out County Line and get the wheat loaf of bread as an app. It’s also really good if you bring it home and pop a few slices in the toaster. But the butter there makes all be difference. Just slip a few packs in your doggie bag on the way out and none’s-the-wiser.

    Lulu…so very cute!!! ;D

  42. SXSW = South by South West Film, Music and Interactive Festival. It’s very, very big. I went last year to the Film and Music portions and had a blast. http://sxsw.com/ Check it out!
    And I’d recommend Austin steakhouses, but I don’t eat beef. Maybe I should ask my parents…

  43. So. Now you dedicate your posts? funny.

    I am more of a cat person but your Lulu is quite a cute dog and she looks funny in her cone…can she pick up cable signals with it?

    Lame Joke, I know.

    Cata

  44. What happens to the pot that John gave Elizabeth in Before I Sleep? The last few seasons it has been nicely placed on her desk, but with the changes I was wondering what is done with it?

  45. TUXEDO BROWNIE BARS

    Yield: 18 servings

    1 1/2 cups flour 1 Teaspoon baking powder 1/4 cup butter, salted 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 4 tablespoons hot water 4 Large eggs 1 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

    Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 13 x 9- inch baking pan.

    In a medium bowl combine flour and baking soda with a wire whisk. Set aside.

    In a glass bowl, add a stick of salted butter covered by 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips. Microwave on DEFROST for 2 minutes. Stir. Microwave on DEFROST for 2 more minutes. Stir well.

    Beat with a mixer the chocolate mixture and sugar until smooth, about 5 minutes. Slowly add the vanilla then the water, a tablespoon at a time. Scrape down sides of bowl. Then add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add the flour mixture, blending at low speed. Add remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips. Add white chips and stir with a spoon until well distributed.

    Spread batter into prepared baking pan. Pour 1/2 cup additional white chips on top to decorate. Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out just slightly moist. Cool to room temperature. Cover well and refrigerate until cold. Cut into bars and serve.

    Patricia

  46. Okay, so in the big stick fighting three-parter, will we FINALLY get to see Chuck unleash his masterful combat skills? I think it’s a little ridiculous how you’re reducing his role to make room for new characters like Carter and Keller. When is he going to get his due?! Honestly, what could be better than Chuck and Sheppard beating up an army of wraith with their sticks? Hmmm…that could have multiple meanings.

  47. Human Scum said:

    Please don’t be so modest dear Baron it doesn’t suit you.

    You are forgetting your ability to see through variety stuffed chocolates to know which to avoid (white chocolate been the only once you can’t see through)

    And you talent to talk yourself out of ticket (of course using the help of your ultra-reinforced servo bitch-slap gauntlets.)

    Question:

    You know the show who wants to be a super-hero?
    Ever thought of hosting for a show called: “who wants to be a super-villain?

    What’s your kryptonite?

    Mac or PC?

  48. Today’s blog is dedicated to Lady Conure who will be going in for heart surgery later this month.

    The very BEST of luck to Lady Conure, I hope all goes well.

    Shame on you Joe for toying with a man’s love for all things chocolate, how about chocolate dipped jalapenos?

    I don’t know when we’re getting S4 in the UK but I can’t wait, you’ve given us JUST enough to whet our appetites and I can feel a real sizzler coming on. Thanks to you and all the team both in front of and behind the cameras for Atlantis, *raises glass* Here’s to season Ten.

  49. Lulu cracks me up. 🙂

    I was wondering… When Weir was first intrroduced back on SG-1, she was brought in to replace Hammond, a leader who was well-liked and respected by those under his command. There was a fair amount of resentment from the members of SG-1, and Carter even gave Weir some grief over her decision-making while she was there. Now the shoe will be on the other foot for Carter; she will be the one replacing a well-liked and respected leader (though, obviously, the circumstances for the Weir-to-Carter transition are wildly different). And of all the people that Carter could be replacing… it’s Elizabeth Weir herself.

    Will we be seeing any moments this season where Carter (or any of the other characters) reflects on this ironic parallel between her and Weir? Perhaps a sort of ‘what goes around comes around’ kind of moment?

  50. If a person is going to Austin, I’d recommend dining at Fonda San Miguel over any steakhouse down there. They prepare and serve authentic Mexican food (as opposed to Tex-Mex), importing their ingredients from Mexico. Their cookbook is beautiful…I have it right here as I type.

    Oh god I love ceviche, tortilla soup, guacamole, hot peppers, enchiladas, etc. etc. etc., everything except tamales. I just don’t like tamales. Shame on me.

  51. Have you seen the film “A dog’s breakfast” yet? I believe that it stars the handsome Mars Hewlett and some human supporting actors.

    Has Lulu met cousin Mars yet?

  52. Answers: If we get the pick-up, getting Daniel on Atlantis will be a priority.

    Would Daniel be taking Vala with him??

  53. Ah, still love reading the blog. But two things (I think) actually.

    One-hope the gift I sent you actually made it this time.

    And two-I know everyone there in the office (including you of course) is super busy right now but am I ever going to get that autograph from you? Or is the surprise still yet to come? Hope I’m not coming off as a pest with asking-again. 🙂

    gla92@hotmail.com

  54. There’s “good eatin'” in Austin, but I haven’t been there in years. And they’re more known for BBQ. However, if you take a 60-minute jaunt into San Antonio, the classic steak house is The Little Red Barn.

    And if you drive many hours out to El Paso (or jump on Southwest Airlines) you have to go to the ranch out there for your steak.

    I adored the video of Lulu. She is full of adorableness.

  55. How totally adorable is Lulu? Your video of her is so sweet! I bet if she didn’t have to wear her collar, that she’d have attacked Boney Barney, and had him for breakfast!

    Just a simple question today, for a change! I was wondering when Outcast is going to start shooting, this week, next week?

    Thanks! 🙂

  56. Hi!
    I am also a big fan of John Scalzi. Have you read “The Last Colony” yet?

    I was wondering if we would ever be treated to Shepard playing some guitar for us on screen? Would be cool to hear Joe play some.

  57. Oh my god, that photoshop picture of Lulu is hilarious and the video, so cute! They made my morning!

    Sabina 🙂

  58. Joe, I’ve decided that you must have the cutest dog in the whole world. The pictures of her are so cute.

    I’m thrilled that Dr. Jackson will be guesting in season 5. Thanks for caring about the good doctor making it to Atlantis for a few episodes.

    It won’t be long now until the season premiere. Friday night will once again be pizza, beer and friends parked in front of the T.V. Can’t wait.

  59. My goodness I thought I was going crazy because I did not see my post and then found I had put it in on the wrong day:

    dreams-of-skies said a few days ago “I happened to LIKE Cam Mitchell. I LIKE Vala Mal Doran. I LIKE that Daniel seemed to take over, student following the master, from O’Neill in the snark awards. Yes it was different. Yes I was worried. But at the heart of the show, nothing had changed and I was happy to accept that there were little changes having to be made. You can’t force someone, whether cast or crew, to stay when their lives are moving on. It’s not right. And no amount of griping can change that.”

    You ARE kidding right? You liked the show so that means anyone who didn’t should stop watching or keep watching but shut-up about their opinion on how wrong the show went in seasons 9-10? Please tell me you ARE kidding.

    (BTW – you must have been watching a completely different show than I was because after 8 years of watching every episode and then trying to get through season 9’s dreck I gave up so to each his own and if I want to say I hated it and why (Mitchell, Vala and Action Jackson being a major part of it) than I darn well will)).

    There now I can step off of MY soap-box, thank you very much!.

  60. If you had to use one episode to describe the overall tone of sesason 4, which would you use? “Echoes” or “Vengeance”?

  61. AnonyNo1million – “I only heard about it when the Carter fans started gloating and bragging with their sigs all over GW that Carter’s the new leader and Weir’s gone. That’s when I looked deeper and realised that the Carter fans have been giving everyone grief.”

    Oh I get it now, the Carter fans who celebrate the success of THEIR favorite character is different and considered rude and obnoxious and in-your-face while the the Daniel/Action Jacskon fans plastering their new sigs of Vala the whorlette all over the place and outright hoping for the death of Carter several years ago was what, acceptable and just their way of showing support for THEIR favorite character? For God’s sake grow the hell up would you.

    Anony7of9

  62. Hey Joe *waves*

    Oh bless…Lulu looks soooo cute! Bet Carl didn’t think so after his fingers got nibbled tho!! *giggle*

    *sigh* I’m really looking forward to seeing Season 4…shame I won’t be getting to it until it comes out on DVD and I get it for Xmas 2008! (Yes…I know…pathetic – no Sky dish) It’s just all these little tidbits and peeks and behind-the-scenes niblets…*pines*

    I feel very sorry for Carl – the evil chocolate tricks are so mean!!! You should get something to say sorry, at least once…like get a chocolate fountain for the Wrap Party! I have a mini one you can borrow! (I’ll even come over and be hostess if you can get me a plane ticket and a couch *grin*) Do some little kebabs of mixed fruit and marshmallows…give Carl the one that has the strawberries and the raspberries and maybe physalis and those cute little Scottish Bell peppers on it…*tries to look innocent*

    Least you day sounded better! Oh! And can I add myself as one of those loyal fans? I seem to pop by here a minimum of five times a day! See! You’ve turned me into a blogger-stalker! *giggle* Be proud!

    Dreams

    P.S. Artic Goddess…you saint! Thank you very much for posting the recipe!

  63. “I only heard about it when the Carter fans started gloating and bragging with their sigs all over GW that Carter’s the new leader and Weir’s gone. That’s when I looked deeper and realised that the Carter fans have been giving everyone grief.”

    For the record GW is Drama Central, everyone giving every one grief on that forum.

  64. “What happens to the pot that John gave Elizabeth in Before I Sleep? The last few seasons it has been nicely placed on her desk, but with the changes I was wondering what is done with it?”

    Like Weir, I think it too has been reduced to a reoccurring character.

    You do realize that this is an inanimate object, and as such is probably sitting on a shelf where all unused props go to retire.

  65. EEEE! Such a cute puppy! David Hawlett has talked about Mars, of course, but do many others bring their dogs to work?

  66. Joe,

    For a school project I am choosing careers and what-not, and being a producer is what I’m going after. We all need to do an interview and I was wondering if you would be willing to do an interview over the phone?

    I would appreciate it, immensely. I mean how cool would that be, Executive Producer and Showrunner of Stargate: Atlantis!

    Thanks for your time!

  67. Will we be seeing the mainland of the new planet Atlantis ups up on in season 4?

  68. “…it would make a lot of sense to have Daniel Jackson drop by for a visit.”

    In this season 5 episode in which Daniel will appear, can you tell us if there will be any Daniel whumping? Preferably him getting whumped by Sheppard via his stick fighting skills?

    Aren’t you worried that all the fans will be in uproar over you guys having Daniel take over all the eps in season 5? First Carter, then Daniel. Plus, I heard on GW that you plan on having Walter come to Atlantis for seasons 5.5-8, replacing Chuck who’ll quit after being bossed around too much by Carter. Is this true?!? But since Chuck only quits and doesn’t die, is there a chance we may see him appear again in season 9?????

  69. edward4th asked when will we be getting S4 of SGA in the UK.
    According to Sky One, it will start on 8th of October.
    Till then we will just have to put up with only having six episodes a day damn those people.
    Have just watched The Real World, really enjoyed it, or is this all just a dream?
    Poor Carl what a painful Pug Hug with teeth!

    Pauline

    I second the good wishes to Lady Conure on her forth comming op

  70. Great blog and pics.
    That picture of Robert Picardo is sooo funny.

    I’m hoping to visiting Vancouver in the next few weeks for the Vancouver International Film Festival and I was wondering if you could recommend anywhere to visit.

  71. Hello Joe.

    I’am a french fan.

    You says that in “the Last man” Woosley appear with a new suit, your spoiler is obvious, woosley will wear the atlantis suit.
    -The CIS has decided to send him on Atlantis?

    -In the season 3, the Ancients gave up the Tria near the midway, because the hyperdrive is damaged.
    Will we see again this ship?
    McKay can repair them with the Asgard core on Odyssey.

  72. That is one ugly-ass, scary robot Bob P gave Lulu. Are you sure he’s a dog lover? Poor girl is going to doggie therapy to deal!

  73. I am so grateful to arctic goddess for posting the recipe for Tuxedo bars… I was getting very concerned about the health of the cast and crew from your description!

    Lulu is a delight 🙂

    Love to the Baron – he’s my new hero.

  74. Joe,

    I’m honestly shocked to hear that you want to get Ben on SGA. I always got the impression that you didn’t like the character of Cameron Mitchell, and impression I got from the way he was ignored for half of Season 9, and how he received almost no character development in Season 10.

  75. Loved today’s pics and vid – Lulu is so cute, even with her Cone of Shame!

    Speaking of Lulu, it’s a good thing you went with a Frenchie, instead of a new Pug, as the 2007 Pug model has been recalled. 😉

    I’m currently snacking on a Theo Chocolates “Bread and Chocolate” bar… can’t remember if you said you tried it or wanted to try it, but it’s delish!

  76. Oh Lulu is so adorable! She is such a tiny little thing! How big will she eventually get? Will she be bigger than your pugs?

  77. Bonjour Joseph!

    La dernière fois je n’ai pas eut de chance je suis tombée sur le jour où vous avez laissé votre ami répondre, donc je retente ma chance au cas où, on ne sait jamais lol!

    J’aimerais savoir ce que vous préférez écrire dans les scripts, les scènes d’actions, les scènes avec du vocabulaire scientifique, les scènes sentimentales…?

    Et j’aimerais savoir si vous êtes un shipper ou pas du tout?

    Merci beaucoup!

  78. MITCHELL IGNORED IN SEASON 9!?!?
    You have got to be kidding. Hell I’m surprised he hasn’t taken over Atlantis the way he did SG1. Season 9 was nothing more than Cambo to the rescue and those other 3. What were their names again? The ones that have been there since the beginning. Oh yea Sam, Daniel and Teal’c. THE BIG 3

    The idea that Mitchell was ignored in season 9 is one of the most insulting things to the actors Amanda, Michael and Chris that I have ever read. Stargate is an ensemble show not the Ben Browder show. And if it wasn’t for Rick, Amanda, Michael and Chris and their great chemistry together since the pilot episode, there would have never been a season 9 for Mitchell to take over in the first place.

  79. Hi Joe,

    a little bit of advertising if you don’t mind 🙂 Claudia Black is one of the narrators of George R. R. Martin’s “Selections from Dreamsongs 1: Fan Fiction and Sci-Fi from Martin’s Early Years: Unabridged Selections” – to be released October 30th – Amazon.com (the link is too long to post it here)

  80. Nan!!! vous n’avais pas re�u mon commentaire! snif!!

    Je vous dissez simplement que je n est pas arr�te de penssez a vous aujoud hui!!

    Vous pouvez pas imaginer a quel point je vous aime!!!

    Mes questions:
    1)Vous irez a des conventions avant la fin de l’ann�e?
    2)Vous aimez les complimants?
    3) on verra beaucoup les Athosiens dans la saison 4?

    Voila je vous adore Fort mon super Joseph!! Gros Bisouu!!!! a demain!!

    J – 26 / D- 26

    Et oui!! je compte les jours =)!

  81. To the anonymous who has posted the same comment twice on two separate days:

    Please go back and re-read what I originally said. If you do, you will find that what you are suggesting I said and what I actually said are two different things.

    I would also like to point out that my original comment was concerning the animosity that was being brought onto Joe’s blog and how it shouldn’t be here.

    I would like to apologise once again to Joe for this sentiment having taken root on his blog.

    Anonymous…if you wish to continue this discussion, you are welcome to look for me elsewhere. I merely ask that this NOT continued here.

    Thank you.

    Right…Joe? Are you listening? Got some cotton wool handy? Good…

    *takes deep breath and squeals*

    LULU IS ADORABLE!!!!!!

    Finally saw the vid with sound…if you EVER want someone to come over there and dog-sit, just let me know! *grin* That little puppy-bark is so cute!!! You must get such a laugh when she starts up like that!

    Dreams

  82. ah oui j’ai oublier de vius dire!!

    merci pour les superbes photos de Lulu^^! Vraiment so cute^^!! C est une star^^!!
    La video me fait trop rire^^!!!

    Merci, Merci^^!!

    GROS BISOU envoyer de FRance à Vancouver!

    Go!! C est partie!!

    Vous receverez mes bisous dans…

    3.
    2.
    1.
    0.

    MOuaMouaMoua^^!!!

  83. Hi Joe,

    Considering how stressful everything is for us right now, it is always nice to be able to come to your blog and leave with a smile. Lulu is simply adorable. She sure was getting a lot of attention. Nice to see Mr. Picardo again too.

    It really cheered me up to read that you want to have Daniel in season 5. Although I love all of the characters, Daniel will always be my favorite. He’s a very complex character and I’ve always been impressed with the way Michael has portrayed him. It won’t be long now until the season premiere. I hope the ratings are really good.

    Take care
    Jill

  84. *waves*

    That vid had me in hysterics. Lulu is spoiled rotten. 😀 So are the pugs treating her any different now that she’s daddy’s girl?

    Oooh and who won? Lulu or Boney Barney?

    *Squeeeee* Only 8 more sleeps! woohoo

  85. A question on everyone’s mind (even if they won’t admit it)…

    Does Sam wear the black leather ‘biker’ outfit in the actual show (or was it just for the photo shoots)?

  86. You should definitely get Mitchel, Vala, Jackson, Carter & Teal’c in a 5 episode arc for season 5 and titled it Part of Five, part 1 through 5.

    Bye

  87. Hi Joe!

    Quick question – Will there be any heartache or angst for McKay this season?

  88. dreams of skies – Please go back and re-read what I originally said. If you do, you will find that what you are suggesting I said and what I actually said are two different things.

    Anonymous…if you wish to continue this discussion, you are welcome to look for me elsewhere. I merely ask that this NOT continued here.

    Sorry on 2 counts Dreams – no time to go looking for you elsewhere so here is my rpely:

    sorry I re-read it twice now and still see you saying hey it’s a TV show, things change, if you don’t like it stop watching or at least stop talking about how much you don’t like it. You then go on to say how much you LIKE it. I leave the interpretation to others to see it for what it is either way – to me you are clearly saying get over it, stop watching or shut-up and oh BTW I LIKED it so what could you possibly have to complain about.

  89. ” Anonymous said…

    MITCHELL IGNORED IN SEASON 9!?!?
    You have got to be kidding. Hell I’m surprised he hasn’t taken over Atlantis the way he did SG1. Season 9 was nothing more than Cambo to the rescue and those other 3. What were their names again? The ones that have been there since the beginning. Oh yea Sam, Daniel and Teal’c. THE BIG 3

    The idea that Mitchell was ignored in season 9 is one of the most insulting things to the actors Amanda, Michael and Chris that I have ever read. Stargate is an ensemble show not the Ben Browder show. And if it wasn’t for Rick, Amanda, Michael and Chris and their great chemistry together since the pilot episode, there would have never been a season 9 for Mitchell to take over in the first place.”

    Yeah, but when you’re introducing completely new character as the team leader especially it’s FAIR to let him be developed a little bit, don’t you think? Your “Big3” mantra is actually extremely insulting to Ben, Beau and Claudia.

  90. I love SGA, don’t get me wrong. I adore the characters, the actors, the plot lines. The intensity and drama that makes it very different from SG1. And sometimes I get worried that the cast from SG1 will, not necessarily take over from SGA, but will have an impact. It has me concerned. I’ve always been a supporter of both shows, each of them great in their own ways, but two very different shows. I hope you can read between the lines with this. But hearing the news of several SG1 characters coming over has me concerned. Can you reasure a stressed out SGA fan that those coming over are vital to plot lines, please? I’m probably overreacting, but need some reasurrance from you.

    Thanks

    A stressed out SGA fan

  91. just thought of another question… why had lulu got bits of tape on her cone?

    Have you thought of decorating it to make it more stylish…maybee some glitter or gold larmay?

  92. I know we don’t know if there will be a season 5 of Atlantis yet, but I have to say, I was concerned to hear that Daniel Jackson visiting will be a priority if there is.

    I’ve accepted Carter, Dr. Lee, Agent Barrett, Teal’c, Walter, Landry, Woolsey and O’Neill in the show without question.

    But, to hear that Daniel is a must and maybe Mitchell too makes me wonder if Atlantis will be turning into SGA-2.

    I love the show, and understand the need to shake things up, and have a ‘soft re-set’, but, please, please Joe, don’t make Atlantis into a playround for sundry SG1 characters. Please concentrate on the ones I love from Atlantis, and perhaps introduce new characters too.

    I can live with the odd guest appearance, but the thought of Daniel hopping over to possibly dominate chunks of storyline fills me with dread. I accepted Weir’s removal and Sam’s introduction easily, but there comes a time when enough is enough. Please say Daniel would be coming over for a guest spot only?

    It’s not that I particularly dislike Daniel even, it’s merely that I’m beginning to feel the show I loved is slipping away from me, and for the first time I’m scared that if there is a season 5 that I’ll be disappointed. 🙁

  93. Did Bob Picardo get Lulu’s affections in one of the photos? I’m not sure if it’s him, although he looks a little different if it is Bob. I loved Bob’s work on Star Trek: Voyager (yes, I’m a Trekkie, too.), and the eps he’s done for Stargate.

  94. Hmm. *assumes concerned expression* Sorry to see that so many fellow fans are stressed and distressed these last couple of days. Maybe we should ALL get puppies… and chocolate. Of course having all of us buy puppies on a whim isn’t too responsible. So, Joe, please give us lots of Lulu-puppy bytes and bits to keep everyone happy and calm over the next week as we wait for S4. Oh. And virtual chocolate never hurts. 😉 Can you send some Aero bars over the internet? We can’t get them over here…

  95. Anonymous said…
    AnonyNo1million – “I only heard about it when the Carter fans started gloating and bragging with their sigs all over GW that Carter’s the new leader and Weir’s gone. That’s when I looked deeper and realised that the Carter fans have been giving everyone grief.”

    Oh I get it now, the Carter fans who celebrate the success of THEIR favorite character is different and considered rude and obnoxious and in-your-face while the the Daniel/Action Jacskon fans plastering their new sigs of Vala the whorlette all over the place and outright hoping for the death of Carter several years ago was what, acceptable and just their way of showing support for THEIR favorite character? For God’s sake grow the hell up would you.

    Anony7of9

    Anyony7of9 — you should probably grow up. Go and look at all the attacks the Carter fans have made on EVERYONE over the years. EVERYONE.

    There’s a group that hate Daniel, Mitchell, Teal’c, Vala, Elizabeth.. you name it!

    They are some of the most appalling people in this fandom, and TPTB have given them another outlet by putting Carter undeservedly on SGA.

    Watch SGA fandom implode beyond repair now.

  96. Joe…

    I read this interesting bit on SyFyPortal:

    SciFi Channel Stockpiling For Writers Strike

    What kind of effect would a script writer strike have on SGA? Would it help guarantee a 5th season pickup or would it mean they’d consider doing to SGA what they’re considering doing to Battlestar Galactica, ie., is splitting 20 episodes over 2 years?

    Or does it not effect SGA in any way?

    Thanks,
    Mary Beth 🙂

  97. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Lulu is so cute! How big will she get?

  98. So you’re planning to have not just Carter, but also Mitchell, Daniel, Teal’c, Walter and .. whoever else on SGA in season five, should there be one?

    Which show was cancelled again? Can you remind me, because I was sure it was SG1. Maybe I’m mistaken.

    I can’t wait to see the number of anti people swell on the Anti Season 4 thread at GW. The numbers are growing by the day.

    You’re going to alienate a huge number of Atlantis fans, in a bid to hang onto the SG1 people. At best you can hope to break even.

    I loved Atlantis. I loved it like I loved no other show, but I won’t watch it with Carter at the helm and a cast of thousands of SG1 characters getting guest spots for no apparent reason (I mean, come on, Teal’c in the Pegasus galaxy? What’s the point of that?? So he and Ronon can compare muscles?)

    You’ve made a big mistake by getting rid of Beckett and Weir. It’ll come back to bite you. And when it does, don’t say we didn’t tell you so!

  99. *LOL* at the mint_jar reference.
    Someone just explained to me the whole mint jar thing and how it evolved. You guys are kinda nutty but I love it! Its the humor of some of the fans that reassures me when you can see so much vitriol between other sections of fandom (as is sometimes seen on this blog)

    Anyways, I’m nearly killing myself waiting for S4 of SGA Joe!! Can’t wait. I’m losing fingernails given the delay between First Strike and next week.

  100. All this debate on the back of a comment made as to whether or not Daniel could, and I emphasise could be written into a potential Season 5.
    Baron Destructo would be proud of your innate ability to put the proverbial cat amongst the flocking pigeons.
    Well done Grasshopper “Use anger to throw them into disarray” (Sun Tzu).
    Well I brought the book at least let me get my monies worth!
    Nice one Joe.
    Pauline

  101. What did you do to the whumpers? Aren’t they the favored child anymore? Even with talk of stick fighting they haven’t reared their ugly heads. Did you tick them off, Joe?

  102. Love the video of Lulu. I laughed till I peed then I laughed some more. My three year-old keep on saying again, again. We watched it a few times.
    Any episodes with Colonel Caldwell this season?

  103. I see the Austinites have clarified SXSW. Gee, when is it in 2008? Hmmm…March 7–16.

    Just so happens ChimaeraCon 2008, our San Antonio fan event, is 14–16 March. And SA is only 1.5 hours’ drive from Austin.

    Let me know if we can work something out. Last time I mentioned Chimaera, you told me the dates fell smack-dab in the middle of shooting season.

    Animal-shelter orientation this Sat.; wish me luck!

  104. PS–Please tell Bob Picardo that, should I get to Trek Expo next month, I’m harmless. *grin*

    Have heard much good over the years about the skits he does with Ethan Phillips.

    G.

  105. Hey Joe, love the vid of Lulu!
    I got another scam letter yesterday, something about a man having died in a plane crash, no next of kin, please help me release the funds yadda, etc, et al. This was my reponse, hope you like it!

    Dear Mr Charles,
    Wonderful your offer seems and very useful the money would be. New temple on Coruscant would it fund, therefore excited the Council is. Peed his pants in joy Ki-Adi-Mundi did. Impress Mace Windu it did not. A mess on Council Chamber floor it made.
    A tragedy loss of Foreign man is, however money I will make so Hakuna Matata.
    Honoured I was that reliable you think I am. Tears to my eyes it brought, and runny nose it caused. Irked Mace Windu was because borrow his hanky I did. Washing it will require.
    Thrilled I was that legitimate this offer is. Caught out Kit Fisto was when spare lightsaber parts did he buy from eBay. Box of Lego did he receive instead. Pleased he was not, stamp his feet he did. Yell Mace Windu did when his toes Kit Fisto trod on. Prozac does Mace Windu need.
    Reply soon you must, eager for funds I am.

    Sincerely yours I am,
    Yoda A. Jedi

    P.S. With you may the Force be.

  106. concerned atlantis fan said…

    I’m not going to quote your post. I am, however, trying to understand why you posted it. Why are you concerned about Daniel doing a guest spot in season 5? Besides the regular cast, Daniel, Sam and Jack are the only three that should be involved in Atlantis. It would be easy to come up with a reason for Daniel to be there since he discovered Atlantis and has always wanted to go. Daniel should have done a guest spot in season 4. What reason could Teal’c have for being there, Dr. Lee. Landry, Walter etc..

    This mindset that everybody and his cousin can visit Atlantis EXCEPT Daniel is ridiculous. If there had not been a season nine of SG1, I can almost guarantee you that Amanda and Michael both would have been moved to Atlantis. Michael Greenberg said as much at a convention right after season eight had wrapped. He knew that both Michael and Amanda were important to the franchise and basically stated as much. He was considering them on Atlantis or branching them off onto another spinoff. He knew how popular both of their characters are. I would hope that Joe realizes it too.

  107. “Yeah, but when you’re introducing completely new character as the team leader especially it’s FAIR to let him be developed a little bit, don’t you think? Your “Big3″ mantra is actually extremely insulting to Ben, Beau and Claudia.”

    Team leader what?? Mitchell was the team leader in season nine?? Joe is this right??

  108. Oh Lulu, you’re just too damn cute!

    Have you tried lavender chocolate? People who aren’t used to the lavender flavor are really thrown by it.

    Is there any chance that Woolsey could sing in the ep beings that Bob Picardo has such a good voice? Just wondering.

  109. Love the chocolate tricks! I haven’t tried this one yet, but it might bring on some hilarity regarding Carl: the Bacon Exotic Candy Bar by Vosges Chocolate based here in the states (www.vosgeschocolate.com) They have a variety of exotic mixings with chocolate. Though, you probably know about it already. 🙂 What happened to Lulu’s collar thingy – what’s with all the tape?! Poor thing, hope Lulu gets free of it very soon!

    chokolaj

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