All Things Tolkien: Five Ways to Await the Release of “The Hobbit”

If you are counting the days until the December 14, 2012 release date of The Hobbit (Part I) chances are you do not have a girlfriend and therefore need to find ways to pass the time. (I kid the geeks… I kid. Some of them do not have boyfriends.)

Not to worry. Since its original publication in 1937, and the Lord of the Rings trilogy that followed (between 1938 and 1949) Tolkein’s world of Hobbits, Ringwraiths, elves, and wizards has enthralled generations, inspiring countless songs, studies, puzzles, tributes, and cosplays. Here are just a few ways you can count down the next 35 days… or however they measure time in Middle Earth.

1.  Listen to Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On” on Auto-repeat

(Sing along now!)

Mine’s a tale that can’t be told, my freedom I hold dear.
How years ago in days of old, when magic filled the air.
T’was in the darkest depths of Mordor, I met a girl so fair.
But Gollum, and the evil one crept up and slipped away with her, her, her….yeah.

2. Trace Middle Earth’s Family Tree

Ever wonder how, exactly, Fingoflin is related to Maeglin? Well, you can be prepared for that next panel discussion at the 2013  Comicon by memorizing all 817 characters and their relationships to one another. There’s even an app for that! And you can keep up with all the other people interested in the complex genealogy of the works by staying in touch on Facebook.

3.  Start Getting Prepared Now for Comic-Con

Every summer the San Diego Convention Center is host to the world’s largest gathering of fantasy….enthusiasts… many who dress up in elaborate costumes as homage to their favorite characters. Once only a venue for comic books, Comic-Con now caters to multiple genres including horror, anime, toys, and more. So extend No-Shave November through July and you’ve likely grown yourself some fine Hobbit feet!

4. Whip up Second Breakfasts and Elevenses

Nothing passes the time quite like eating so why not try to make your own delicious Seedcakes, courtesy of  The Lord of the Rings Cookbook.  Whether you need some comfort food for breakfast, second breakfast, elevenses, luncheon, tea, dinner and/or supper, Ms. Kittle has you covered.

5.  How About a  Hobbit Jigsaw Puzzle?

Get a pizza, the LOTR trilogy on DVD, shove the cat(s) off the table and get busy with this vintage two-sided puzzle. Done? Great! Only 4 and a half more weeks to go!