As part of the "Little Damn Heroes" line of maquettes, QMx has produced the 10th crewmember, Serenity. And she's pretty!

OK, not as mind-blowingly cool as their massive, $2500 replica Serenity. But a very cool thing indeed. It's a hair under 8" long, 5" across, and comes with its own black stand, suitable for autographs if that's your thing and a Big Damn Hero with a pen happens to be nearby. (Some of the pics below can be embiggened by clicking)

First thing you notice, aside from how generally cool it is and that it comes with two tiny, loose shuttles you shouldn't lose, is that it's made from lots of little pieces, not cast as one statue. The panels, the cables, the various doodads that hang off our girl are stuck right on, giving it a much more realistic look and feel. It's made of polystone, whatever that is.

Next is the paint job. She's been hand-painted, and not perfectly. There's weathering on the prow, rusted areas by the engines. Different panels are different colors, possibly from different ships entirely. It looks lived in. Flown. Used. Knocked around a bit.

And it's got some heft to it. Where the ornament from Dark Horse (roughly 2/3 the size of this) feels light, this girl can be swooped in a thoroughly satisfying manner.

It's also as accurate as a model can be. Crafted in 1:400 scale, it was created from the actual CG files used to make the ship fly on the show (yes, this is the TV Serenity, not the movie one).

Even the underside has been painted with the same care. And the socket the stand slots into offers a secure and snug fit.

The shuttles come loose, one parked, one in flight. The parked one slides snugly into its bay, while the flying one rests on an included wire stand that sits on the engine arm.

Now the bad, or at least the not-as-good. Because it includes many bits that have been glued on, it must be handled like a display model and not a toy. One of the solar panels popped off mine while I was handling it for the photos, but it went back in with no problem and some glue will keep it there. The engines look like they can be adjusted; they can't. Nothing turns, so don't try. The loose shuttles also could be easy to misplace. I'm planning on some discreet tape or maybe a trace amount of poster putty to keep mine in place.

The price is a bit high for a casual buy — but not, in my opinion, for a Browncoat who wants this lady on her shelf. $99.95 plus shipping. However…

It's now available from QMx but, if you don't mind waiting and you order before January 25, you can get it for $79.95 from TFAW.com, plus shipping. (All TFAW's presale items are 20% off).

And that's it. The Little Damn Heroes Serenity is a nice addition to my Serenity collection, and I'm getting pickier about what I buy these days.

Pretty straightforward, really. QMx, the talented and obsessive artisans who somehow reach into my brain and make the things I want, made a great big Serenity. Which I want, don't get me wrong, but can't quite justify buying (and I've tried).

They also made an ittle one, which I own and hangs from my car mirror where people try to steal it constantly. And for awhile there was a Serenity ornament, which berths comfortably on my desk at work.

But I wanted a nice display model that fit in my budget, and lo, they have answered me. As part of their Serenity Little Damn Heroes Maquettes series, they've released a 1:400 scale version of our girl, priced at an affordable $99.95, due to ship in December.

Roughly 8" long, it's hand-painted, made of dozens of polystone pieces, with an insane attention to detail for this price point. You can remove it from its stand and zoom it around the room — and I will — and the shuttles are removable. One of them is in a flight position and can be fixed on a wire stand to appear to be launching off the wing (as shown). It doesn't light up (that's the bigger, pricier model) but the solar panels are chromed to provide a nice effect. And, like the larger model, it was made from the original CG files from the show, so it's as screen-accurate as can be. The black base is attractive and solid and would show off silver-penned autographs nicely, should someone happen to bring theirs to a convention, hint hint.

While the other LDH maquettes were released as limited editions, this one is not. However, I'd expect the first run of 2,000 to go fast and they take some time to make, so if you want one soon best get on the preorder list now.

Behind me, of course.

Adam Levermore has done a lot of amazing things. He's made stuff for the Can't Stop the Serenity campaign, the Serenity Travel Posters, Battlestar Galactica Propaganda Posters, funky packaging, the GUI for the popular Super 8 iPhone app, tons of logos and maquettes and websites and more. And he was my cocreator on our Save Hiatus webcomic.

But now, for the first time, he's illustrated something that wasn't someone else's idea.

Over a year ago, he told me he was thinking about robots. This is just something you know you're going to hear from a friend at some point in your relationship. We talked about a new webcomic and schedules and whatnot, and then we went off and did other things. One of the things he did was quit his job and move to become a full-time illustrator, a daring leap that still impresses me. Since then he has created more wonderful things for other people, and then he went and made a robot print. Which you can now buy.

There is one major reason I like "At the Roburbia Cafe." Not the quality, I expected that. Not the old-fashioned look or the pulp sci-fi robot style, or the subliminally comforting,  pre-aged textures, that's just Adam. No, what I like is that this is telling a story, and it suggests a future that contains many more Roburbia prints. I want to know more about this world that looks like concept art for "The Iron Giant" or a retro Pixar short. I want to see a small 1950s town where working-class robots go about their business. I want more.

For now, I'll settle for this. 18"x24" on acid-free paper, limited to 250 signed and numbered copies, they go on sale Oct. 17 but you can save 20% off the $30 price by pre-ordering them here.

Next up in my dehoarding efforts: Autographs!

I love collecting autographs. I love the connection you get with a personal hero. Sure, it's a fleeting one, one they'll undoubtedly forget almost immediately. But you'll still have that memento, that proof that you once met this person and got to talk to him or her about the effect they may have had on your life.

I don't sell autographs I've gotten in person, for that reason and because I don't want celebrities to stop having those moments with fans for fear that their generosity of time will end up… well, on eBay, frankly. They give a lot of their time to fans and we appreciate it, we shouldn't run off and make a buck.

That said, occasionally I'll buy one myself, from a reputable source, to fill a hole in a collection. And if I later get the fortunate opportunity to get another directly from the actor or writer or musician in question, it leaves me with an extra. I figure the celebrity was compensated for the bought one (usually from a convention or arranged signing) so I don't feel as weird selling it myself.  So here's what's up so far:

Nathan Fillion and Gina Torres preprints: I can't stand auctions that aren't clear regarding autographs and preprints so let me say it outright. These are copies of original autographed photos, but they were not themselves signed. There's no indication that either actor ever personally touched these prints. That said, they're pretty cool and would nicely decorate a Browncoat's wall. 8"x10", one of each.

Morena Baccarin as Inara: Whereas this is an actual, signed-in-person, autographed photo. Authenticated by Creation Entertainment, with their certificate of authenticity on the back. 8"x10", glossy.

Amber Benson as Tara: This is a gorgeous photo. Signed by Amber at a Metro Entertainment signing (CofA included). 8"x10" glossy. Hard-to-see wear on the top from being in a frame.

Auctions for all three end next Tuesday night. Don't miss out!

Back in the misty days of the Writers Strike, plucky little Joss Whedon and his ragtag band of mates sidestepped around the studios and networks, and put together "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog,"  a 3-act, online-only musical superhero webshow that used fan -favorite actors, a whimsical attitude and catchy tunes in their insidious plot to take over the Internet. Or make money, it's not important. What is important is that it worked, and it spawned a top-40 CD, live productions, a DVD with a musical commentary that later got its own CD, and more. And now, it has a book.

By this point if Titan Books puts out anything about a show I even remotely like I'll buy it. Every one I've seen has been stuffed full of material, photos, interviews and factoids that even I, obsessive fan that I am, hadn't uncovered. And this one is no exception.

Granted, there's only 45 minutes of material to write about, so it's not quite like writing about a series. But you get the full shooting script, the sheet music to the songs, the sheet music to the Commentary! songs, and you get extras.

You get a hilarious intro by Captain Hammer. You get a roundtable discussion from Joss, Maurissa Tancharoen, Jed Whedon, and Zack Whedon on the creation and making of "Dr. Horrible." You get essays from Neil Patrick Harris, Felicia Day, Nathan Fillion and Simon Helberg. You get behind-the-scenes photos, pics of Joss' original lyric sheets (with different lyrics), articles about the costuming and the awards and the fans and the ComicCon panel.

You get a lot.

You can get a sneak peek at Titan Books, and you can buy it at Amazon, or wherever you prefer to buy your books.

OR you can win one here. Just post a comment below to be automatically entered into a drawing for a copy of the book. Doesn't matter what you post, the drawing will be random, but it would be nice if you could post something about the book or "Dr. Horrible," just to make 'em more fun to read. Rules: one entry per person. U.S. and Canada only. Nobody in my family is eligible. Drawing will be one week from tonight, at 10 p.m. EST Wednesday, April 20, 2011. You must include a valid e-mail address so I can contact you. Good luck!

It shows. The decor for most of my house is "Early Heaps." But I'd like to reclaim some of my house again, and I could use the bank account boost. So my momentary madness is your gain!

Up in this round, already at eBay, is:

Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles Promo Glow Stick. I have no idea why FOX thought this was appropriate, but then I'm not sure what would have been. Maybe some twisted, bullet-ridden bits of sheet metal with the premiere date on them? (Actually, that would have been pretty cool.) Instead we got a glow stick, although it is evil-Terminator-eye red. Never used, still ready to glow when needed.

Mal and Zoe dog tags from QMx: QMx had some dog tags made for Sgt. Malcolm Reynolds and Cpl. Zoe Alleyne, 57th Overlanders, Hera, to give out as promos at events and conventions. Brand new, made of high-quality metal plate with enamel, they measure approximately 5 cm x 2.5 cm. A black rubber silencer and chain is included with each.

Serenity Collectors Edition DVD (with bonus Serenity comic from Best Buy): This is the Collector's Edition 2-disc set from Universal. Cool enough on its own, but then Best Buy released their own version with a DVD-sized comic book included. It's a reprint of the first issue of "Those Left Behind," the 3-issue Serenity mini-series from Dark Horse, with a cover by Sean Phillips. If you're a Browncoat collector, you want this.

More stuff coming till I run out (ha!), so check back.

Mostly because I've been tweeting more, and it's a little startling to discover that most of the things I felt worth saying could fit in 140 characters.  But sometimes they can't, and so here I am.

The first lengthy thing to say in 2011 is: A Browncoat needs help, and by doing so you might get amazingly cool stuff.

Jean Bauhaus' mother-in-law, Gina, died unexpectedly in December without a will or insurance to cover the burial, and her father-in law needs long-term medical care (diabetes, emphysema, schizophrenia). In addition to the funeral and medical bills, Jean and her husband Matt also have to clean up Gina & Rob's old apartment, moving furniture and making it ready for new tenants. There are also legal matters to attend to and creditors to satisfy. Frankly, she can use some cash.

And, in one of the things that I love about fandom, people are stepping up to help. Marian Call donated her copy of her CD "Bootleg," signed and smooched, and proceeds from that handled the burial. Now we have a Seriously Cool Thing on auction and it ends Monday night.

It's a set of the Fruit Oaty Girls bobblehead maquettes from by Quantum Mechanix. These maquettes are limited to 1500 numbered sets, but only THIS set has been signed by its creator Geoff Mandel — the graphic designer behind Serenity (as well as many other movies and TV shows).

Bidding started at list price and will go on till 10 pm EST Monday night. 100% of the proceeds go to Jean. Don't miss out on a great collectible and a worthy cause.

More details about Jean and any other auctions can be found at Erin Palette's blog, Lurking Rhythmically.

I loved the book for years before the movie and I love the movie just as much, as did many others, but until very recently there has been little to no Princess Bride merchandise available, possibly because the movie didn't really hit cult status until it came out on video. Then we got re-releases, plush characters, action figures, T-shirts, games, another re-release, and even the hint of a sequel book. But no replica swords. Until now.

The Sword of Inigo Montoya replica has been copied from the only known existing prop version and is exacting in its detail with precise measurements, heft and balance. Featuring a swept-basket style hilt in gold over brass with gemstones and tableau-engraved decoration, the Renaissance-style rapier includes a mock-ivory handle and gold pommel, which has been lengthened slightly to accommodate a, ahem, somewhat unusual grip.

If you prefer a simpler style (or possess only the five fingers), there is also the Dread Pirate Roberts sword replica. Perfect for left- or right-handed swordsmen, the sword blade measures 32-inches long and is made of high-carbon sprung steel. The reproduction includes a leather-wrapped grip with chrome-plated steel hand guard and pommel, and the leather scabbard features chromed accents.

Each replica also includes a wall mounted display shield and numbered plaque, a certificate of authenticity and a prop story booklet, featuring a special introduction by Director Rob Reiner. Limited to 750 pieces each.

The swords are coming out in October but sources are already starting to sell out their preorders, so if you're interested you should act fast. You can preorder (and see more photos)  at the Factory Entertainment website but you can get them both a bit cheaper at Entertainment Earth (Inigo sword, Dread Pirate Roberts sword).

Now I want to go watch the movie again…

More goodies up for bid in my ongoing "I Need Money and Want to Be Able to Walk Through My House Without Turning Sideways" auction. This time we have:

Strangers in Paradise "Abbey Road" T-shirt: This is the limited edition Wrap Party version of this shirt, only available by buying tickets to the Strangers in Paradise Wrap Party and Comic Book Legal Defense Fund event in NYC in 2007. It has the Abbey Road image of the SiP cast on the front and the wrap party tour dates on the back. There were 100 made; this is #2 (marked thusly, under the tour dates). Black, Adult XL, Hanes Heavyweight. Never worn.

Mal and Zoe dog tags from QMx: QMx had some dog tags made for Sgt. Malcolm Reynolds and Cpl. Zoe Alleyne, 57th Overlanders, Hera, to give out as promos at events and conventions. Brand new, made of high-quality metal plate with enamel, they measure approximately 5 cm x 2.5 cm. A black rubber silencer and chain is included with each.

Vertigo Tarot: This is a beautiful thing. Released when people couldn't get enough Sandman and Vertigo Comics, this stunningly illustrated tarot set uses characters from Sandman, The Books of Magic, Swamp Thing, and Hellblazer for the Major Arcana. Illustrations are by the amazing Dave McKean. Also includes a 128-page hardback guide to the Tarot by Rachel Pollack with introduction by Neil Gaiman. This is not the reissue or the 20th Anniversary set, this is the original 1995 box set.

Much more to come, and don't forget the items from the first load that are about to run out. Good luck!

Time to purge the shelves and closets and earn some much needed cash, I'm thinking, so I'm throwing some stuff onto eBay. Weird stuff tends to accumulate at the Old Bridges Place, and I suspect it breeds because I know I never bought half this stuff. Here's what's up for auction so far:

Primeval Seasons 1 and 2: DVD sets, 4- and 3-disc sets respectively, that include the first two seasons of the hit BBC show Primeval  Dinosaurs are popping up in modern day Britain and a team is quickly assembled to deal with it. Does this team, perchance, have a competent leader, a brave and trustworthy 2nd in command, and quirky but good-hearted team members? Why, yes! Yes, it does. Lots of fun, decent effects, and plenty of twists.

A Serenity Alliance Currency Money Pack: You've been here before, you know what it is (a pack of Alliance money prop duplicates, made from the digital images used for the movie on rag paper, including a map of Miranda). Sealed in the box.

"That '70s Show" Viewmaster: Yeah? I'll bet you don't have one… A Viewmaster with the logo from the show and the dates it was on the air imprinted on the outside, plus a Viewmaster disc with 7 images from the show's history.

More stuff to come as I clean out my deeper recesses and dust everything off.