Two figures today! Way I see it, why wait to post the last turtle? I've already waited a year and a half, I think it's long overdue. Here he is, my favorite member of the fearsome foursome, the best turtle of all, Raphael!

The TMNT were a MAJOR influence on my life, and in many ways, my own personality is very much reflective of - and likely developed as a result of - the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. You could say, psychologically, I am the four heroes combined into a single whole. Anyone who knows me can tell you, I have a strong sense of justice, fairness, and a dedication to doing what's right, and a desire to lead, strongly reminiscent of Leonardo. I'm very smart, and a TREMENDOUS geek, and as you all know full well, I'm exceedingly verbose and articulate . . . Donatello much? I'm also generally laid-back and easy going, and so long as there's nothing important to worry about, I just don't care, I want to kick back and have a good time, behavior that fits Michelangelo to a T.

But above all else, I'm a major smart-@$$. I'm kinda hot-tempered, passionate about my beliefs, and if you do harsh my mellow, or worse, openly attack me or those I care about, then woe unto you! For I will come out with claws and fangs bared, and I will eviscerate you verbally, and if need be, pummel you physically. I don't suffer fools, I mock stupidity, and I tend to react quickly, not always rationally, and often with disastrous results to EVERYONE (including me). Not necessarily traits to be proud of, but I've always felt you should own your gifts AND your flaws. Be honest with yourself and accept who you are, and I am definitely, hands down, no question, Raphael. He may be a jerk . . . but you won't find a fiercer, stronger, more steadfast and loyal friend
ANYWHERE.

Raphael was made using the same process as the other three turtles; base is an '07 CGI movie figure, parts from a '03 cartoon figure, added joints, sculpted muscles, full paint job, and finished. I did the other three first, so that my process would be fully refined and perfected when I got to my favorite, and I think it shows.

Well, now that I've bared my soul for all you strangers, I think I'll be off for the night!

Turtle Power!