Morrie Turner at the San Diego Comic-Con

Meeting Mr. Morrie Turner at the Comic-Con was the highlight of the whole event....and not because he's an old Oakland native. Best known for creating the long-running comic strip Wee Pals, Morrie Turner had the first nationally syndicated strip to not only be written and drawn by an African American Artist, but also to feature an integrated cast of characters from diverse backgrounds. It was Turner's intention to portray a world without prejudice, a world in which people's differences - race, religion, gender, and physical and mental ability - are cherished, not scorned.

Back in 1982, when I landed on Plymouth Rock, the comic strip scene was pretty weak. Family Circle, Garfield, Dennis the Menace, B.C. and other comic strips in the Oakland Tribune had nothing exciting to offer. I got so bored that after a while, I could predict what Heatcliff or Dennis the Menace might to do next.

However, in the sea of comic strips, only Wee Pals stood out. It was not only educational but also entertaining.

I was lucky enough buy one of his original comic strips as a birthday gift for my brother-in-law, Ray. At 83 years young, Turner still draws Wee Pals from his home and continues to work with children in small cartooning programs in the inner city.

San Diego Comic-Con

I missed the Comic-Con, last year, so I had no choice but to go this year. For the first time, all four days of the Comic-Con were sold out. I didn't feel like bartering or paying an arm and a leg to the vultures in front of the Convention center. Lucky for me I found a guy on Craig's list who sold me his day pass fo $50. It was well worth it. I must've spent close $300 inside but I was more excitied to meet all the artist. Here are some pictures of the artist I met:
One of my favorite asian artists, Dez Einswell

The guy who started the whole billboard liberation movement, Mr. Ron English

Orlando Jones promoting his new animated show "Bufu" for the BET network

Tara McPherson - One of the BEST artists of our generation! LOVE this woman!

Riverside representin' - Mr. Jeff Soto

Asha turns 2...part 2

So here comes Tuesday, July 17th - the official birthday of Asha. We already had the party on Sunday but we still wanted to have a little something for Asha and my dad. We went to Miguel's, a local famous Mexican restaurant. Had a great dinner with some birthday ice cream for dessert. Here are some pictures from that evening.
Our little princess is two...time flies.

Enough of this birthday stuff, time to open the presents.

I wouldn't put that "Potty time Elmo" DVD in my mouth if I were you.

Sassy just like her mommy.

My dad, me and Asha...good shot, Mona.

Asha turns 2!

...technically, her birthday wasn't till July 17th but we decided to celebrate on Sunday, July 15th since my family was visiting. My oldest brother and his family along with my dad were visiting us. The little party was at Asha's old playground at the Gymboree. All her little friends came to wish her happy birthday. Here are some photos...
Asha on top of the world with Mommy.

Esha and her mommy.

Daddy with Asha and Esha.

Girls only club. Asha with all her old friends from the Gymbroee.

...mmm nothing beats a cupcake cake!