Random Thursdays- Fan Boy Here

The Day After

Music Monday-WoW!

Just Listen;

Post removed by owner...depressing.

Revisiting the Shire

Well, we made it through the supposed Mayan Apocalypse.  Hope they weren't a day or two early, like Hoppa said maybe just ran out of stone tablets?

Going to see the movie this afternoon.  It's family time and we have had such great times in the past seeing films we all enjoy.  Yes, we are a big ole flock of geeks

Opinions? Please Use Comment Section

Have been reviewing Windows 8 and different opinions about it.  It is definitely off to a lackluster start.  Several folks don't like what's on top, but love the content that is buried under the tiled desktop.  Search is supposed to be awesome.  Check out Seth's article at CNet.

Inca Coming?

According to the ancient Mayan calendar the world should end sometime Friday.  Anybody know any Mayans?  Has anyone seen a Mayan in the last 59 years?  Better yet, think the news media is working overtime?  The fiscal cliff is minor to the planet exploding.  Just a beach observation.   Anti-anxiety drugs are not needed for a while..........lol.

Larry Bear

Daddy didn't lasso the moon. She was so very young. I can't remember everything, but Kristi's first question was, "Moon?" Then Mom said, "Yes!" Late at night and this small innocent baby girl was pointing towards the sky. She spoke again. Three words came forth, "Daddy, get Moon?"

Yes, my miserable goofy life had purpose beyond my own selfish needs. No choice. God intervened. I changed somewhat. No negatives about Mom, she was the UBER Mother. She was a good wife and I was horrible.

Yet, God let me live. He gave me precious gifts. Granted I took them, oh yes. Why didn't I lasso? As the look back makes me realize how my selfish drive made me foolish; it scours me today.

"Quit aggrabating me, Larry E!" She'd say this with a smile so big. Larry is a friend that knew her from early on and she loved the attention. He gave her a bear she held onto until the end. Larrybear. I remember Mom saying "Good Lord, how many times am I gonna' sew this arm back on?" Trust me Larry, Kristi probably sewed it back the last time.

She went on to make straight A's throughout school. She went to Ole Miss and graduated Summa in 5 years, carrying away a Masters. Pretty good huh?

Legacy. So Great! She spent her life becoming this wonderful, rare person that had a heart bigger than life. She was and still is so very good. Her husband loves her, her sister still adores her, she got "Moon" for her two girls. Mom and Dad are so lost without her as are others.

I know it takes some folks to labor concerning this adoration. It shall never cease, but it will become the second stage to pushing forward. She would kick all our asses if we don't embrace this life and become better.

Aggrabated, she'd be...

Thanks to those that have called my daughter, Kristi, friend.

"Daddy get Moon?"

I've changed somewhat.

Music Monday - Holidays = Home

Huge thanks out to JackieC for this seasonal delight.

Advertisers should emulate T-Mobile's exceptional effort.

Check Out the Names of the Cab Driver and Policeman

My sleep pattern has been gradually falling apart for a few months now.  It's hard to sleep on a damaged shoulder, even harder to sleep with a damaged spirit.  No doubt this has been the worst year of my life. So, sleep malady comes as no surprise.  Even remember bouts of insomnia when i was in grade school.

Anyway, as many of you know I do not have cable TV.  So it has been really kewl to find streaming video on the internet. Last night I visited a classic movie via YouTube - It's a Wonderful Life.

If you are cynical, don't believe in the possible goodness of humanity, find old movies tedious, then please tune in to 'Mo De Fatt's Prime Time Hip Hop' celebration. This film is not for you. If you like tremendous acting, seeing beautiful cinematography and direction, this movie from 1946 is made for you.

No money, no work, nights filled with grief and an aching heart on spiritual, emotional and physical levels, it seems that God touched me for a few hours and let there be joy in my life for a brief time.

Wish for those iPads, new cars, flat screen tvs, diamonds or whatever suits your fancy. I hope you get them. Please, take a moment and pray for me to find work, fill prescriptions, pay bills, and overcome the evil gnomes, elves and orcs that work for the VA Administration.

Ravskau, the Mighty Kudzu Dragon Charr Warrior

An Ash Legion Charr Warrior wielding dual Fiery Dragon Swords. Note the Crest emblazoned on his armor. Pretty spectacular dude if I do say so myself. Folks, Guild Wars 2 ROCKS! Ain't he just slap-dab knock down gorgeous?

Stop Children, What's That Sound

Christmas is magic.  Uber Magic.  Christians celebrate the birth of the Messiah.  The world gets happy. K, there are a few hatefuls.  I find it inspiring that almost every night I see a Mormon commercial on TV that professes celebration of Christmas, the birth of our Savior. And FAMILY!

I also like that Saltillo, MS.,  has a nice Manger display in front of city hall.  Screw the liberals, screw the federalists.  Celebrate anything you want, but understand Christians are grateful for Christ. No weeping for your soul. Not our call.  It's your personal connection with the Lord.

I celebrate it!  God understands.  He loves us...

(Let me qualify, I am a member of the United Methodist Church and don't agree with everything LDS, but it's so cool they have the big ones to run those really kewl tv spots.=!)

Agree?  Disagree?  Please comment.  Radical Muslims are not welcome here.

FYI for Beach Housers

My friend, Jim Couch, passed away a few months ago. Trying to compose a decent reflection of his awesome spirit and quirky, comical, caring attitude. He embraced life and loved it. Gosh he could laugh out loud. Will publish when through.

 Posting here is sporadic, I know. Lot of stuff on the beach house plate. Life has changed and adjusting is hard. Please comment. Please call. Please email. Will do my best not to turn into a pool of wimpiness. Kristi and Jim would not approve.

Music Monday - Classic

Wow! Be sure and listen to the end. This is exceptional. Nat King Cole really "owns" this song and I bet he's listening from Heaven with great approval. Tremendous rendition.

iGoogle Alternative

           Anyone have recommendations for an iGoogle homepage replacement?

Return of the Beast

I'm back!!

Re-connect

Tomorrow the internet will be online.  May sit on the porch and play GW2.  Since I don't have cable tv service, it'll be fun to catch up on my fav shows over the internet.

FYI, for Family

Almost made it through yesterday.  One emotional break when a friend offered condolences.  Sorry Benny.  Thanks for the concern and thanks for being a friend. Last night after being alone for a while, a good cry was needed.  So, grief is still toying with me.  Should a father mourn the loss of a daughter less than two weeks after the funeral?  I don't know.  I do know that no one has the right to make such a judgement.  It hurts so much.

She was a very bright light of hope. Still is.  She constantly shored me up.  She also busted my chops at times, lol.  And I can write a vast multitude of pages about how wonderful this daughter was on so many levels.  Instead, here's a link to an old blog of Kristi's - she became so busy she stopped posting:  Beanstalks and Lilypads.

I am trying to let go and meet acceptance.  Please pray for my family and me.

Tuesday's Music Monday - Dads and Daughters

For Mimi, M, Bean & Ry Ry

 

Days Have Slowly Passed

It's been a hard, rough week. My ability to rise above conflict is not as strong as in the past. It's still hard to talk about the loss of Kristi without breaking down. This quagmire of despair is unrelenting. My weaknesses apparent, even those denied, flail at me constantly. The long road of time acting as a healer has no end so far. I don't think it ever will...Please continue praying for my family. Please God, give us all strength.

Brief Journey's End

God knows she will be missed in this life.  If only I could be an
Elrond to match her Arwen...

Soft Launch

Just steps Kristi and you know them...



I love you

Observation

i hate cell phones. Texting? Why?  Gimme a spiral cord that kinks up....

Obituary

Kristin West Walker, 40, of Collierville, passed away November 19, 2012. She was a member of Collierville United Methodist Church. Kristi will be remembered for her infectious smile which lit up a room, and her loving, giving spirit which will continue on through all of the lives she touched. Her daughters Mallory and Riley were her greatest joys in life. 

Kristi is survived by her husband, James "Jay" Walker; daughters, Mallory Elaine Walker and Riley Jane Walker; mother, Janice Huffman West; father, Michael Carlton West; sister, Emily West Morris (Charlie) and niece, Maddie; mother-in-law and father-in-law, James Edward Walker and Diane Towns Walker. 

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 23, from 5-8 pm at Collierville Funeral Home, 534 W Poplar Avenue. Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, November 24, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Magnolia Cemetery. Online condolences and floral tributes may be expressed at www.colliervillefuneral.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kristi's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Below is a link of reflections about Kristi:

Guest List - Collierville Funeral Home

Honoring Our Angel

Arrangements for Kristi are:

Visitation from 5 until 8 Friday night at Collierville Funeral Home, 534 Poplar, Collierville, TN

Funeral will be Saturday 10:00am,  at the Magnolia Cemetery which is close to the square in
downtown Colliervile, TN

My thanks to all the heartfelt responses and assistance during this emotional, dark time.  Kristi would be embarrassed by all the attention.  Needless to say,  it's well deserved.  No doubt I will keep posting as time permits.  Please understand if I don't respond to your phone calls immediately.

In the meantime, if you are in conflict with a loved one, stop it. Immediately.  Hug them and say I love you.  Never, never be shy about showing love, concern and compassion to those close to you.  I had a brief, positive and cheerful conversation with Kristi the day before all this happened and we ended it by telling each other 'love ya' - thank God.

Longest Day of My Life

The world has changed, forever and ever. There is a huge hole in my heart that will never heal. My oldest daughter Kristi has gone to her well deserved reward in Heaven. This child of mine shall not be forgotten. She was so full of life and joy. I cannot begin to describe the overwhelming responses to this loss.

She touched so many hearts and it is awesome to see and hear all the wonderful, positive input from folks. As we said our farewells it was (and still is) very tough to keep from losing it. I stood at the foot of the bed holding Emily, my youngest daughter. Her heart is huge and just before we left the room for the last time she said, "Goodbye big sister, I love you." God help us all.

At first I was mad at God. Why didn't he take me? It was hard to accept such a loss. She was a superb Mother;  two daughters 3 and 5 years old that adored her. Kristi has been blessed with a loving, dedicated, understanding husband. This is a great family devoted to a lifestyle of goodness and joy. Why has God taken one of my girls?

My undue anger has subsided. Kristi lived a tremendous happy life and was such a sweet caring soul. God blessed her. She lived and loved far more than most. Everyone has positive things to say about this wonderful, wonderful daughter. Still, the loss is overwhelming.

I am extremely selfish. She was such a beacon of light and hope in this often stormy life. I gave her my word several weeks ago that Cybersouth would become an active blog again.  More will follow.  Forgive me. This is so very hard.

As information becomes available about the funeral and visitation it will be posted here.

Okay Now

My Aunt Judy gently slipped into the everlasting good night. I am very sad. Oh, Lord help me. Life has been so hard the past few years, but the deaths of friends are such a tremendous loss. Overwhelming loss. Please pray for the family, Judy is okay now.

Not Especially Liking Peter Parker

Reading back through this year's ramblings, my belief in my own posting has jarred me. This horrible streak of bad luck is, well, just get ready for a short turbo whine in the next paragraph. Being destitute and hungry are not fun either, lol. Please vote against NObama by voting for Romney in November.

Now, the latest adventures: Thought I was having a heart attack this past week. Turned out to be anxiety. Was bitten by a brown recluse spider and folks, avoid this nasty evil critter. If you have the stomach for it, check it out on the web. Talked to a friend of mine whose father was bitten a year ago and it's still not healed. Separated my left shoulder and of course I am left handed. Then tonight my oven caught on fire. Being a snakebit...oops... spiderbit person I did have enough sense to put a fire extinguisher on the wall years ago. Anyway, it was contained in the oven and should be repairable after a thorough clean up. Just glad I was home!!!

Enough. Next thing you know a meteor will hit the house. Just another "stellar" event in this spiderbit life.

Prayer Request

Have a sick aunt and am concerned. I remember her always being kind, laughing, and the first convertible I ever rode in was her 1958 Thunderbird. Yep, fun times. Now she's sick. My cousins Pat (RIP) and Deb were important when growing up. My brother and I liked them a lot. Still do. Pat passed on and for many years Deb was in touch. Need to re-establish that family relationship. Pray for Aunt Judy, please.

Oops again

JK; nothing left out on purpose. You know, see u next week with a handfull o de paperwork. not worthy... David and Michelle, tyvm for support down through the years. Thanks for being an anchor when Jimmy died. Chris and Tina, what can I say? Your support and prayers are awesome. And all of you, we must group and play GW2 when possible. Install it. You will be amazed.

TY MJ

MJ; was reading the past few posts and thought it behooved me to profess gratitude for all you do. Too numerous to list. Just wanted you to know my feelings and will see or talk over this holiday weekend.

New Cell Phone is Here/Hear

Mudslingr acquired a new cell phone for me to use. It's a Samsung Rugby II and so far it's a kewl, basic phone. Built to military specs, it's tough, simple to use, easy to read and I can hear it! No data plan needed here. iPad takes care of all that (TY Jeff, Chris, etc). It's a relief to know phone calls shouldn't be a problem now.

Thank you Mud for a most practical and durable phone!!!

Fringe of Insanity?

Home and in overdrive to catch up. Had to roadtrip and pushing the clutch with my wounded left foot was not happy time. After a visit to the clinic, my wound is healing. Also found out the bite on my arm was probably a brown recluse spider, not a red wasp. Anyway it is sore and healing. If you don't believe all this stuff has happened over the past few months, I understand. Sounds like the ravings of a mad man. And no, they didn't prescribe any pain medicine. "Just tape an aspirin on it."

Music MondaY - a Request, for rob n jay Go GW2

Random Thursday - Quotes Compiled

This is a great tune. The words are melodic. I think Byron, Keats, Wordsworth, Blake, Sandburg, Frost, etc., would all be proud that such great flow of words have been poured together this day and time. It's passion, from the heart. Sadly, some won't understand:

2nd Quote

"Not how many times you've been knocked down,
it's how many times you get back up."

~The Strange Familiar

Music Monday - Not for Wimpy Ears

Throw those overrated Bose headphones down. Get AKG, big bad Sennheisers, Turtle Beach or Sony PS3 7.1 ear muffs. This is for rock and rollers that want to hear it loud. One of the great rnr songs done the right way. BTW, this was recorded in the 70s. Wanna rock? Go Zep!!!!

Quote

"Take all my pieces of doubt,
and let me be what's underneath."

~The Strange Familiar)

Volunteers do good work!

Tupelo Lee County Humane Society is an excellent organization that places many pets all across this great nation. They shuttle animals back and forth to locations distant from our corner of NE Mississippi. They have a great website, Tupelo Lee Humane Society. There are pictures and info about adoptable animals.

WTVA Channel 9, NBC affiliate, did a nice story on these good folks which can be found at their site, WTVA. Be sure and watch the short video on this page. It features a very pretty young lady who is pictured above. BTW she is the youngest of my two daughters and they are both animal crazy! Yes, God has blessed me.

Radom Thursday - To be Posted

check August 23rd post...

Era's End

It looks as if online gaming at the beach house is over. Forever. After reading the latest blurb from the Guild Wars 2 site, I am somewhat disheartened. In order to retain your character's name you have to be involved in the initial pre-launch 3 day special. If that name is lost it just won't be the same. I built a mythology around it in anticipation of GW2. Many of the last things done in Guild Wars 1 revolved around playing GW2. To fellow players - Hall of Monuments is full.

The financial crisis that started in 2009 when I lost everything in a shop fire that was fanned by later gov admin economic FUBARs, has taken a bite out of beach house happiness. My reluctance to pursue VA benefits into hell called VA Hospital Memphis hasn't helped either. That's a blog unto itself!

This concern for Guild Wars may seem childish and petty to some folks. But, I never eat out, don't go to bars, don't go on dates, don't take trips, don't pursue any hobbies (golf, tennis, etc.) and I don't even have cable TV for entertainment. I drive a 20 year old truck that I spent a ton of money on this year and wear the same clothes I had back when God created dirt. Literally, homebody homeboy. So that 6-10 hours per week seemed a great investment for a one time fee of $70.00.

KK, am venting. As you can see warp whine can be reached at the beach house. I am truly blessed with a great family and super friends. Gettin' bizzy holding up my responsibilities to maintaining independence. The bitterness is actually repressed grief over failure. It surfaces on occasion. Wish this GW2 thing could be my largest problem, lol!

Do Not Lift Over 10 Pounds, LOLOLOLOL

Moving the shop and finishing some basic "spring" cleaning. Posts will be short and intermittent. Such as this one...

Music Monday - Which Version Melts in Your Ear?

Love this song. And adore the three performers.

This first video is about as close to an "official" video that could be found. Enya, and friend Roma Ryan, should be given credit for writing this beautiful, melancholy piece that haunts my memories of loves past. She is a prime pioneer in the rebirth of Celtic Music and this song was recorded in Dublin, Ireland:



Hayley Westenra comes from one of the lands down under. A native of Christchurch, New Zealand, Hayley has had an extensive career including one tour as a member of Celtic Woman. Very much a philanthropist, her Christian faith shines through in her charitable activites throughout the world:



If you want to know what it's like to hear angels sing, listen to Lisa Kelly. She also toured with Celtic Woman from the beginning until this last tour. She is on maternal leave and I think rejoining the CW lasses will happen. This is a performance from a Celtic Woman concert circa 2005:




Which one is your favorite? My choice is apparent. Just click on comments below.

Just a Note

Busy organizing equipment, tools, etc. My shop is moving in order to become more productive. I have fought the hard fight with life, the universe and everything for a while now and am going to become a fish back in the water or die trying. Posting here is not quite as simple as one would think. So I do write several at a time and am sometimes late in uploading. Finishing the 3 servers I have worked on for months is a priority. Please forgive my sporadic attempts. Certainly it will get better. Especially after November.

Will remain at the beach house residence. After the shop literally went up in smoke it's been a constant struggle to organize. Not enough room either. Will keep you posted.

Random Thursday - Paul Rodgers Sings the Blues

Amazing. My zodiac sign is Taurus. Wonder what that bull was doing when I was born? Decorating a field? And I don't mean Ferdinand the Disney bull that loved flowers. The one in attendance the fateful day I showed up was probably wet, hungry, extremely cold or sweltering hot, lookin' at the lady cows over the fence, had probably eaten bitterweed and just feeling the primary reactions to a rabid wolf bite experienced 7 days prior to May 10th. No. No flowers used here. Only BS. Still get a whiff of it almost every day.

More Music Tomorrow

Random Thursday Post tomorrow. It will be the assigned theme song of my life. Something has to give. Amazes me the consistency of a downhill slide on an almost daily basis has not let up since mid 2009. Sheesh! K, must quit whining.

I am going to ask one thing of my clients that require over a 5 mile drive. Please be ready to pay a small drive cost. I did a service call that was 28 miles round trip. After working a little over 2 hours solid, I left without pay (my choice) and ran out of gas. This will stop today.

Poverty sucks and it's hacking a severe wound into my jolly personality. If you vote for that mule's rear end, NObama, this fall, take me off your friends list. Don't want to associate with people that dumbass. My IQ can't stand the hit if it's contagious. And yes, that includes all the government snoops nosing around.

Tuesday with Decisions

My online gaming days are being put on the back burner until I can find the gumption and where-with-all to overcome certain shortcomings. It's not possible to reward myself with a few hours of fun and howling in Guild Wars or SWTOR. So, I am going to take a needed sabbatical and try to reconstruct my priorities. Accomplishing closure on the damned VA problems because I am tired of being co-dependent and hungry, literally, has to reach fruition. No this is not a curb of addiction. I reached that point back in 2005, LOL.

So the advent of Guild Wars 2 is enticing, but it has to be delayed in my life. This is not a spur of the moment decision. Getting a grip on my abuse of people and returning to a self sustaining life is tantamount. Therefore, don't expect me the end of this month in the regions of Ascalon, Divinity Coast or Lion's Arch. Maybe later, who knows? BTW, might be a good idea not to jack with me regarding my few weekly hours of fun. This has been a very hard choice.

Do we have to give up all that is fun in order to die? Hope not.

Music Monday - Carlos n Eric

Feline or Canine?

Hmmmmmm. Cats and dogs. Or should I say Dogs and cats? Interesting individuals. I've known several examples of both species. Traits exist in them that reflect human aspirations and negative qualities. With this in mind, they still seem to be noble. Now, ask yourself, r u a cat or dog person? I happen to be both.

Dogs. They come from feral creatures that used to be feared and still are frightening. "Who's afraid of the big bad wolf?" Today junk yard dogs empower this belief. Can you even wrap your mind around a time when 200 pound dire wolves roamed the earth? There is a certain nobility in such animals...wait, creatures, yes, a better word. Domesticated dogs evolved from the dire wolf. Pack animals, with hunting strategies that involved each individual working together to take down prey. Raw and admirable in the same instance. Efficient.

Cats. I do know lions hunt together, but they are not happy about it. Cats are loners. Where dogs become part of our human pack, cats barely tolerate homo sapiens. Hell, they have trouble tolerating each other. Where a dog exudes strength and power cats are graceful and have finesse. Dogs have alpha, beta etc. hierarchy while cats are, for the most part, alphas. Dogs remember things. Cats don't give a fat rat's ass 15 minutes later. They return to immediate survival tendencies. Dogs are happy until they get hungry. Cats seem to endorse the 'stock up n put it in the freezer' thangy.

Why all this jibber jabber? Are you catlike or doglike? Or have you found a conscience and discovered you are human? Be human and cast a vote in November for Romney. Think of it as being a good homo sapiens and voting AGAINST Obama (not much a Romney fan here). This is Cat Daddy signing out and I am doggone. Hmmmmm.

RIP

Online Again

Usually my ISP, Metrocast, has been diligent about connectivity. It did return Wednesday for a short time. It has been out again until now. There has been severe weather and I know trees were down as well as lines.

My phone is intermittent and battery life is only a few minutes. Hopefully the internet is back online so email is still the best bet to get in touch. The email addy is cybersouth@gmail.com.

A good friend of mine lost his mother early yesterday. Joe, if there is anything I can do please contact me. Please keep the Rackley family in your prayers.

Online

Internet came back online this morning around 2:00AM. Will answer emails as the day continues. Head is still hurting so may try to rest some more.

I'll be back

Out of the loop for a bit until Metrocast brings us back online. Major outage, this should be repaired later tonight, early morning. Posting from a remote location. Taking meds that make me sleep and should finish the regimen tomorrow.

Bookends, Just Half Here

We left the memorial service Saturday and regrouped at Starbucks. My daughters, my sis in life, Felecia, son in law Charlie who has become one of my best friends, Maddie my purple princess of a GRAND daughter, and my exwife, Jan. Sitting there laughing and talking about Jim, we remembered good times. We all loved him, still do. Then out of the clear blue over the intercom, this song played:



Thank you God...

Music Monday - Turn It Up!!!!!!!

Pretty, happy, into her career, and admired by peers. When the folks ran a talent test, the meter blew up. Her Australian accent is so dad gum hot! Don't bother telling me old information. I do realize this video has been posted before today. I like her so much it may be posted again next week! BTW, the voice overlay at the beginning is Dick Cavett interviewing Carlos Santana. Listen to Orianthi Panagris perform a classic Jimi Hendrix tune:

GW2

Last weekend there was fun around Sis's house. Jim Couch showed up. He was in good spirits as was Felecia. Heck, I was happy too. Why all the joy? All three of us were participating in an online beta test of Guild Wars 2. Haven't heard of Guild Wars? Well, hang on, it is about to knock the MMO, online gaming community right out of their virtual socks and shoes...or elf boots if you happen to be wearing them.

Simple way to embrace online gaming. Go down to the Walmart, purchase Guild Wars 2 (available August 28, 2012) install it and start playing. It's that simple. You don't have to be a Guild Wars 1 player or need any gaming strategy. Just start playing. The game will teach you. If you don't like fun, have a sh-ty attitude towards life, or rejoice in the pain and agony of others please don't play. Spend that money on badly needed therapy.

I hope my assessment is clear and easy to understand. With clothes on, this game is the most fun a human can have period, end of statement. It's gorgeous beyond all expectations, the sound is awesome, ease of play is good for gamers and non-gamers and there is NO monthly fee. Unless you are hopelessly stuck in Muggle land you'll like GW2. Several million people experienced the beta test last weekend and it's 99.9999% assured to be the next evolution in online gaming.

The folks at Arena Net have delivered. If you have never played an online game, start now...or on August 28th.

More

Brother Couch had a beautiful memorial service. Please, the loss is hitting me hard now. Get your thoughts together because it's important that everyone make a comment or send an email reflecting on your thoughts concerning Jim. I will assemble everything and pass it on to Aley (Jim's daughter) and his parents in hard copy. Thanks to everyone that has responded. Steve, thanks for being a better person than me. Rest assured he was honored by a room FULL of family and friends. Stay tuned...

Saturday Services for Jim

Here is information about visitation and the memorial service for Jim Couch:

Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the Jefferson Street Chapel, W.E. Pegues Funeral Home. Reverend Chad Grayson will be officiating. Burial will be in Tupelo Memorial Park.

Visitation will be from noon until service time Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Salvation Army Womens’ Auxiliary, P.O .Box 7240, Tupelo, MS 38802.

My Friend

Jim Couch had a stroke late Monday or early Tuesday. He is in NMMC and I have room info etc. I just talked to his Dad. He is presently comatose and the family has not been able to learn more at this time. Jim has been my friend for over 30 years and my prayers for him and his family are accompanied by many others. Jim is a super human being and has touched a lot of lives. Folks, this is a friend that I talk to almost daily. We have helped each other through ups and downs, with Jim being the better friend. He attends church and has a tremendous amount of faith. Join us in prayer for Jim, his daughter, and parents.

EDIT: Jim passed away around 11:00-11:30AM this morning. As details transpire about arrangements, I'll post info here. Jim is fine. He's crossed the bar to take his place in heaven. Let us support his family in this time of grief.

I love you, brother. Sing with the angels.

Music Monday - Mannheim Steamroller

Sometime a picture is worth wayyyyyy more than a thousand words.

Thanks out to JimC for this great pix!

Just in Case

A friend sent this to me. Rather poignant.



One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't "anymore".

No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute."

Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I love you."

So while we have it, it's best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick.

This is true for marriage.....And old cars... And children with bad report cards, and dogs with bad hips, and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a sister-in-law after divorce. There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.

Life is important, like people we know who are special.. And so, we keep them close!
Suppose one morning you never wake up, do all your friends know you love them?

Important thing is to let every one of your friends know you love them, even if you think they don't love you back.

And just in case I'm gone tomorrow, please vote against Obama!



Thanks out to EdC for a great email!!

Chris Butler

He will be missed. My heart goes out to the family and friends. Chris was one of the good guys. So many times he helped me out of computer jams. A super friend. His attitude towards life, work, family, friends was "can do." An inspiration and positive person, he will be missed.

Thanks "Elvis the Butler" and peace.

Intimations of Mortality

As you gather to enjoy an evening meal, saying Grace might help. If you are fortunate enough to look at family or friends while at this table, rejoice in them. If you are inside, comfortable and secure when you close your eyes, please remember you are blessed.

Music Monday - Dream Voices

Self Explanatory

Thanks Ashy for a great link!

Hey Dude, You Are Still the Man

Yes. I really miss my Dad. Life can be tough, so naturally his guidance still helps me love our God...even in despair.

Gone? Me thinks not.

Duality

Here at the beach house there was a love hate relationship concerning Apple in the early years of this blog. Then Apple changed in a positive fashion to their latest operating system based on FreeBSD. Shortly thereafter they switched to Intel processors. Their market share has more than doubled since making these wise changes. It's really not about the hardware though. They have always manufactured great products. Jobs finally decided to enter the mainstream of computerism.

The very first job I had in the industry was a salesman/tech for Apple. My disdain with things orchard started years ago when Steve Jobs made the claim that Apple was faster than PCs. Absurd and very undignified. This was during the Power PC chipset incarnation and hyper threading or dual core were not terms familiar to fanboys. Shucks, multi-tasking plumb evaded them. Now this is not to say that Apple computers weren't nice products. They were and are to this day. But fast as a PC?

Today the market has changed. No doubt a business can run on Apple networks, but it is far more cost effective to use the PC format. Heck, the cost of software alone is a huge savings. So, as technology evolves it'll be fun to watch this healthy competition. In the meantime, something new is learned every day about the iPad. An iPhone is a dream. Hope it comes true one day. But trade my Toshiba Qosmio laptop for a MacBook? That won't happen. I leave every morning armed with a PC and an iPad. You don't have to pick sides in this age old debate. It's okay to like both!

Random Thursday, 12th of July

Guess that makes tomorrow the 13th.

Yet to Come Part 2

Anyone can make predictions. The internet is informative and that's with a huge wow factor. But beware, not all info is correct. That said, let's look at some of the hubbub around the web;

TABLETS
Tablets are here to stay. For a while. The variety grows, hence competition boosts the quality and power factors through the roof.

No doubt Apple led the the way with the iPad. I own one. It was a gift last Christmas that rarely leaves my eyesight. Kudos to Apple marketing and their manufacturers. Nice delivery on the retail side and an excellent product. At Christmas Flash based media was a slight problem with Apple. Today, a shift has occurred and playing media problems are virtually history.

Apple has a few minor drawbacks. Why won't they let us replace the batteries? Price is somewhat a factor. Their proprietary interface cable could use some upgrading, like maybe a standard USB 3.0 which blows everything, including Firewire, away. I do like the current trend that the orchard seems to be moving away from Big Brother type control. A few days ago Apple made Chrome available for iPad. Haven't used Safari since, lol.

Android based tablets are on fire. A huge part of the cause is the Kindle Fire. This is a great tablet. At 200 bucks it's a steal. They will offer some new models before year's end hopefully reflecting their decent price marketing strategy. I know several techies that use the Toshiba tablets and hear nothing but praises of these devices. And Windows is busy taking things off the back burner of their tablet stove. Just wait, they won't be left out of this market.

SSDs

Solid State Drive. Say it with me and remember it, "Solid State Drive." They are not coming...they are here. There are two in this laptop. More about that later. One advantage to these drives really stands out. Can we say, "Screaming yellow zonkers fast?"

The next evolution in hard drive technology has many positive features. They have no moving parts so the heat factor is all but negated. You don't defragment SSDs. Very quiet devices that take up minimal space in a case. The market has grown competitive so prices are becoming more realistic. Many more features exist. Here is an idea of size difference.

That's a standard hard drive on the left and the SSD on the right. Quite a difference, huh? Also, the SSDs will fit most laptops that use SATA interfaces.

Why 2 SSDs in my laptop? One is a boot drive that runs Windows 7 Pro and essential software. The other is for downloads and MMO files. Also there is a 500GB 7200rpm external drive for data. The primary drive is a Plextor 128gb. The secondary is an Intel 120gb. The Intel drive was a gift several years ago and has performed perfectly. But, the Plextor was brought online a few months ago. Wow, fast? Please click on the Plextor link above.

The software that cloned the drive (Acronis) was easy to use and transferred everything is less than 15 minutes. That's right in 15 minutes, operating system and data! After fine tuning a few days, this laptop actually booted in 7-9 seconds! Since then I've changed the MBR and it boots in 20 seconds. Hey, toys? lol.

Just look at the specs in the two above links and it will help clear up doubts about speed and reliability. Here are some more links concerning SSDs:

Oops. No care about a deep gash in my leg? Oh well, more links tomorrow, stay casual. (Am I milking this or what?) Comments please.

Yet to Come Part 1

Several major changes will happen during the next 300-400 days. Well, this is all possible if the Mayans are/were wrong about December 21, 2012.

Windows 8 will be available at retailers in October.

The highly anticipated (for years now) Guild Wars 2 will crank up late August.

For some goofy reason beyond my power of understanding, Google will pull the plug on the iGoogle homepage November 1, 2013.

Flash will be out of the mobile business in a few months.

There will be 3 new models of the Kindle Fire arriving before the holiday sales.

A 7" iPad is now being developed in Brazil for some reason. It should be available before the end of year. Hey Tim Cook! Give those jobs to the legal citizens of the USA!

Mozilla has announced no further support of Thunderbird, a great email client. Simple solution - use GMail.

Hopefully, we will once again become a nation united. Sad that the socialist leaning incumbent is uniting the country under a banner of hate and disappointment - for him.

Tomorrow's Post: A few personal predictions about hardware trending in the near future. Be sure and catch my take on SSDs. Don't know about SSDs? Links will be there for your enjoyment and pleasure.

Music Monday - One of the Top 5

There are several live versions of this song on YouTube. Sometimes it's better to listen to the original and enjoy the wells of quality that always exist around some performers. Mr. Hall and Mr. Oates possess such talent. This is an all time favorite. Pretty, well recorded, beautiful lyrics, important message and really over the top. Take a few minutes and hear a classic:

Fallen and Almost Didn't Get Up

After a round of back problems and making a decision that I WOULD NOT have back surgery without a second opinion (that probably won't make any difference) several weeks have passed in a muscle relaxer stupor. After staying off the meds for a few days I was busy moving equipment around and tripped over an open computer case. If not squeamish the picture below shows the results. It starts at the bottom of my kneecap and continues down for about 9-10 inches. Pretty huh? Eat your heart out Gwyneth Paltrow, Mila Kunis, Naomi Watts and Kate Beckinsale! After tearing it open at the top again on Saturday, I am off my feet for a few days to let this knit back together.

Most of my life I've been a blessed man and not suffered a great deal physically. Of course some that know me seem to think the same is not true when applied to the mental aspect. On occasion I am bothered by an old wound that hinders walking a bit, but other than the blood pressure/stroke problems down through the years that have been controlled by meds most of the time, it hasn't been that bad. That said, the last few years have been hell.

One malady after another. Yes I am familiar with whine mode, turbo whine mode, and warp whine mode. Ladies and gentlemen, brothers and sisters, let me tell ya that warp whine can be found at the beach house most any time of the day or night. If you drive by don't think those horrible sounds you hear are the neighborhood possum, Sid, whuppin' up on a cat or dog. Just might be me trying to stand up, roll over in bed or tie my shoes.

K, dropping out of warp back to normal. Hey, it's not all bad. I have lost over 50 pounds! You know, sometimes you just have to accentuate the positive...

TS, n Hey it's Good News

Ashy has put up a K Dragons server for TS. Please do a search on the server list and you can sign in with no problem. It's awesome. TY for the help!

Teamspeak Trauma

K, the mobo, video card, another NIC plus the 2nd SCSI card are toast. Working on bringing the back up server online. It'll be assembled and brought online AFTER bills are paid. Also, it's time someone else spent money for high speed broadband and do the maintenance. I don't want it at the beach house anymore.

Maybe I'm Amazed

He's 70 years old today.

Up

The Teamspeak Server is online. Parts arrived late from Memphis and cured the problem.

TS Parts are Ordered

Parts have been shipped and should arrive tomorrow. Will keep you posted. My cry yesterday for relief from the anxiety revolving around this crisis has been ignored. Fighting to overcome a bad case of food poisoning stacked on top of broken lawn mowers, a severe case of lackodefundsitis, the damned VA Administration, two servers that are benched and not cooperating, a cell phone that is still not quite up to par, plus phone calls about Teamspeak are all combining to send my blood pressure through the roof. Will take an additional dose of Clonidine midday and if my sight does not improve, it's time for hospital.

Yes, I am grouchy. I don't feel good. Again, I truly think prayer helps. Hope everyone has "a better than expected day" (one of my favorite quotes from EdC).

Your Attention is Noted

Believe me, I am sooooo aware the TS server is down. I have been working on it since the lightning strike/power outage yesterday. Running out of replacement parts and really, really frustrated. Please quit calling me!!!!!!!! I am disgusted with myself, my life, the weather, etc. Don't call and don't come here. Let me rest for a while then regroup. Your good intentions are noted, but it's my problem and I am just before blowing a fuse. Remember all the BP and stroke problems I've experienced in the past 18 months? Don't add to it. Instead, pray for me.

Disappearing Numeric Keypad

Need some help folks. Using a Dell keyboard (KB212B) with Vostros 230s and 260s. Intermittently, the numeric keypad fails. Then, just as mysteriously it starts working. This is on multiple machines. All these PCs are under a year old. I have literally spent hours scouring Google and Dell. All I get is positive reviews about this keyboard. No one even mentions this problem. Well, I haven't found it referenced, yet. Any insight will be most welcome. May end up having to contact Dell directly. C'mon, help my hair stylist or barber if you prefer. At this rate she won't see me show up because I am busy pulling all my hair out.

Music Monday - Love it

Bear with it. The music is awesome. You'll be glad you tuned in...

If it's Not Too Dear

Made it. Actually got up at 7:30AM and mowed about 2/3 an acre with push mower. LOL, chest pains were anxiety stuff. Thanks for concern. Phone is working, but battery life short. Gmail (aka email), Google Talk, TS, etc.

It is GREAT to be alive and in Mississippi!!! Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes n stuff.

Phone Stuff

K, phone is working. Sorta', kinda'. It's a V5 (maybe even V3) Razr that had the dust blown off it. Have jiggled the iPad charge cord enough to get about half a charge. So some things are better. I think.

Just to mention in passing, chest pains are bothering me. Hope it's anxiety from all the recent frustration. Really want to make it alive until at least 4:40AM tomorrow. That way Music Monday has meaning, lol.

Phone and iPad

Latest cell phone has been a Samsung. I really like it. It was a gift and had some really nice features, accessories, etc. Well, yesterday as equipment was being carried in from the truck I dropped it. Didn't realize this had happened until a few hours later. It was in a case, but moisture does strange things to electronics. Wiped off, shaken and put back together it worked until late last night. It quit suddenly. Makes me sick. Blackberry style phone that was pristine. No scratches, all buttons worked and the range was great. Now I am desperately trying to find an old phone to replace it.

Anyway, please contact me by email and I will update here when phone connectivity is back in working order. Sheesh! When does it stop? Just found out the charging cord for my iPad is kinked and it won't charge. Guess saying 'when it rains it pours' is redundant at this time. Hope the Walmart sells replacements...

EDIT: Folks, I have around 4% charge on my iPad and am having a hard time finding that Apple charge cable at a decent price. If it's a TRUE emergency I can use the iPad to talk briefly. Every time I receive a call that app is a pig. Please email, am trying to check it every hour.

EDIT2: Teamspeak is online.

Monday Music - Relevant the 10th

Concerning Antivirus and PDF

Are you aware that McAfee was arrested? No, not for writing the most overated antivirus program. Seems the local political machine in Belize, where he now resides and works, was mad because he wouldn't give up the cash to their henchmen. It's all vague at this time. One nice thing about this article is that it not only explains the McAfee antivirus history; it also will relieve you to know that Intel bought the company several years ago. Maybe it will go back to being a worthwhile investment. John McAfee opted out it several years ago after selling the company to Network General in 1997.

IMHO, McAfee and Reader (Acrobat), written by Adobe, are the most overated software offerings in history. Drop Reader and go Nitro PDF. Yes it's a freebie and no I am not responsible if you download it and trash your machine. Adobe Reader seems to be gradually pulling back their funtionality which indicates it may end up off the freeware lists. We shall see...

Random Thursday - Utility Tablet

She: Papa, I meant to ask you .. how are you getting along with the new iPad we gave you for your birthday?
He: Good!
She: And you're clear about all the apps?
He: Excuse me ...
He: ... What's wrong?



ROFL!

Hope to start back with a Random Thursday post. We shall see...

Slowhand? LOL

Sith Academy of Medicine

Welcome is a lie!

Sorry about the temporary disappearance. I should resume normal ramblings next week. A new feature will be a daily update about Veterans Administration health care. Problems seem never ending. At this point in time I am ready to believe they are trying to kill me. Their ongoing policy of hatefulness, lies, deceit and general ineptitude is enough to frustrate the most laid back individuals on this planet. I loathe and abhor VA Memphis. They are the rudest, crudest non-professionals ever encountered. Hitler and his henchmen may still be alive and doing well with their headquarters at VA Hospital Memphis.

This has been an ongoing battle for years. For the 4th time I got up and walked out. Well, there won't be a 5th time. Rudeness shall be dealt with appropriately and I am going to return insult for insult. Don't you find it amazing that veterans are treated so shabbily? God help the returning veterans that have to endure this bunch of fools. VA Memphis should be closed and everyone re-routed to other facilities. They are the despot of health care.

My last week of posts were prescheduled to launch so you can imagine the time spent trying to obtain decent health care. It's a crying damn shame my life is at the edge of psychotic breakdown because I served in the military. This included 2 years in Vietnam. It sucked. It still sucks. And I have had enough!!

The Lion Awakes

Finally a movie about C.S. Lewis that gets it right.

Random Thursday - For Lily

Today's video is rather unique. It was written for the actress that is Snow White in the soon to be released movie Mirror, Mirror. It is performed and penned by her father. This tune was part of the feature animated Disney film, Tarzan. It's possibly my favorite Phil Collins offering. Fathers and Mothers everywhere give a listen:



"Come stop your crying
It will be all right
Just take my hand
Hold it tight

I will protect you
From all around you
I will be here
Don't you cry

For one so small,
You seem so strong
My arms will hold you
Keep you safe and warm
This bond between us
Can't be broken
I will be here
Don't you cry

[Chorus]
'Cause you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more

You'll be in my heart
No matter what they say
You'll be here in my heart, always

Why can't they understand
The way we feel?
They just don't trust
What they can't explain
I know we're different but,
Deep inside us
We're not that different at all

[Repeat Chorus]

Don't listen to them
'Cause what do they know?
We need each other
To have, to hold
They'll see in time
I know

When destiny calls you
You must be strong
I may not be with you
But you've got to hold on
They'll see in time
I know
We'll show them together

[Repeat Chorus]

Oh, you'll be in my heart (You'll be here in my heart)
No matter what they say (I'll be with you)
You'll be here in my heart,
I'll be there always
Always

I'll be with you
I'll be there for you always
Always and always
Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
I'll be there always"
~Phil Collins

Rurik's Sword

Good news for Guild Wars fans. The long awaited Guild Wars 2 is near. Check out this offer on the official Guild Wars 2 site: Collector's Edition. This will be made available on April 10th and is a pre-order. Still, the official site is showing us pictures of game media and containers. Here's more info about the latest offering - GuildWars2PC. Fingers crossed.



"The only nice thing about being imperfect is the joy it brings to others."
Doug Larson

It's Spring!

Vernal equinox. The daylight equals the same amount of hours as the nightime. Flowers bloom, weather warms and you might hear the crack of a bat at the local baseball diamond. Enjoy the mild temperatures. Summer is just around the corner.

"A little Madness in the Spring
Is wholesome even for the King."
~Emily Dickinson

Music Monday - Phil and Company

Up tempo, makes you wanna boogie.



Soft, complex and so soulful.



“Music has the power to move a person between different realities: from a broken body into a soaring spirit, from a broken heart into the connection of shared love, from death into the memory and movement of life. Music has the power to touch the heart of a child with God."
~Lane

Beach House Update

I am a whiner. Health issues turn me into a complete nuisance and utter bore. After several weeks of misery and anxiety attacks it looks like life may be returning to its sub-normal state. One issue that has bothered me is eyesight. It's hard to be happy plagued with multiple problems, but there is light at the end of the tunnel presently and I can see it.

Thanks out to everyone for their prayers and well wishes. Thanks to all for their patience with me. My major goal is finishing several projects in the coming week. Diligence is in play. No matter the obstacles, 2012 has to be a better year. God help me with health and age issues. Voters please help me with stress issues by voting NObama out of office come November.

"I asked my doctors if I'd be able to play singles tennis and they said I could. That made me very happy since I haven't played in five years."
~Walter Cronkite

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

"I think it frets the saints in heaven to see
How many desolate creatures on the earth
Have learnt the simple dues of fellowship
And social comfort, in a hospital."
~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Random Thursday - Cowboys...Still Kewl

My Dad loved westerns. He could talk to you about Shakespeare and loved the Histories. The tragic and comedic were okay. But, he loved the factual. I remember he laughed at me because I liked Star Trek. Card board sets and all. The question from me was, "Dad, is the story really that different?"



"But each day brings its petty dust our soon-choked souls to fill, and we forget because we must, and not because we will."
~Matthew Arnold

It has been an interesting week. Health issues, life, the universe and everything have taken a small toll. Things are better and I hope to resume my standard anything but normal approach. Bear with me folks, I haven't given up hope. In the meantime, stay casual. Oh yes, please vote today. NObama must go in November.

Music Monday - Shekinah Glory

Rock! Love! Listen! Celebrate!

GW2 Warior

Looked at Your Desktop Lately?

Owning a computer has many benefits. It helps you organize. It informs you. It creates structure that helps accomplish goals. It remembers things. This list can continue extensively. Healthy computers do a better job. Got your attention? Okay, huge secret about to be revealed -> Healthy computing is mandatory. Yes mandatory. Nothing about this is optional.

You are using your computer to help organize vital work. Don't do it sloppily. Put things in order. A cluttered desktop is chaotic and somewhat disturbing. Well, to me, anyway. Don't put executable (.exe) files on your desktop. Instead make a shortcut to the file and let it do its job from the "home" file.

Don't save to the desktop. Let me repeat. Don't save to the desktop. Create a download file or shortcut to the resident Windows download file and save downloaded stuff there. If working on a project create a work folder and then put a shortcut on the desktop, NOT the folder.

Using massive amounts of documents? Save them in your documents folder. I will include a documents folder inside a project sometimes. A name like 'Mike's PDF' helps me remember where info is stored. This not only unclutters a desktop, but prevents accidental deletions.

Try the Quick Launch taskbar for standard functions used often like web browsers, VOIP, web cams, etc. The included screen shot is my Qosmio laptop. This machine is a constant companion and must stay organized. Many times network problems need quick resolution. Can't afford time to sit and wonder, "Where did I put that voodoo network thangy I downloaded?" I know where it is located.

Even though multitasking is entirely possible I try to keep the amount of Windows opened at one time to a minimum. If you want to check email often use a gadget that tells you when you have mail. Don't leave the Window open. It's eating resources. Memory is tasked and this slows down a machine in a huge way. So get in the habit of opening and closing items as you need them. Trust me, this will make you and your computer happy.

Desktops have been touched briefly here today. It's your machine. If you choose to live in a chaotic world so be it. Just remember that with the advent of Vista and Windows 7 computer problems have been easier to control and not that prevalent anymore. Yes, I know there are times when you want to pull your hair out and blame the machine or Windows. Calm down, look at your desktop chaos storm and remember you are in charge. The machine has no AI capability...yet. Oh yes, please restart your machine at least once a day. More on that later.

This is so brief and barely skims the surface. If anyone has input please click on the word comments below and let us know. This is what works for me and many people I know. You may have another way or a better way to organize a desktop. Inquiring minds n all that!

"Every man has a right to be wrong in his opinions. But no man has a right to be wrong in his facts."
~Baruch

Music Monday - Billy Shears

Selfish post today. Take a moment and listen to part of an album that changed music. This is awesome on sooooo many levels!!



"It was twenty years ago today,
Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play
They've been going in and out of style
But they're guaranteed to raise a smile.
So may I introduce to you
The act you've known for all these years,
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
We're Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band,
We hope you will enjoy the show,
We're Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band,
Sit back and let the evening go.
Sgt. Pepper's lonely, Sgt. Pepper's lonely,
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
It's wonderful to be here,
It's certainly a thrill.
You're such a lovely audience,
We'd like to take you home with us,
We'd love to take you home.
I don't really want to stop the show,
But I thought that you might like to know,
That the singer's going to sing a song,
And he wants you all to sing along.
So let me introduce to you
The one and only Billy Shears
And Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"
~The Beatles

GW2 Chatter

Since this was made available for embedding, you'll be able to watch it unless the owner wants it taken down. This is very well done and, believe me, I have spent some time reviewing Guild Wars 2 related YouTube videos. No doubt there will be a Mesmer character at the beach house. One will be created immediately after my Necromancer. It is a bit lengthy, but so much info!!! Really kewl work. Awesome stuff all the way to the end. Check it out:



Will give more info and subscription data after I obtain a real permission (and if one is secured). Okay, I am excited and think it will go retail soon.

"Quality is not expensive, it's priceless."
~Billy Wobblynife

Random Thursday - Shekinah

Last month the Hard Rock Cafe in Memphis stepped out of the norm and featured a Christian Rock group. This is the first song of the set titled 'Til Then. Shall we play a game? My brother Dan is in this video. Can you find him? Comments can be made by clicking on the word comments just below this post.



"The Christian is not one who has gone all the way with Christ. None of us has. The Christian is one who has found the right road."
~Charles L. Allen

Happy Leap Day!

"Never underestimate your problem or your ability to deal with it."
~Robert H. Schuller

iPad 2 Update

Apple iPad 2 is a favorite trade item online. Seems everyone is getting ready for the iPad 3 release next week. Not me. Sticking with the iPad 2 at the beach house. Received this nice tablet for Christmas and have spent two months exploring the world of computer tablets.

This is a wonderful device. It has many apps and more become available daily. I can monitor networks, make free phone calls, surf the web, watch videos, securely store passwords, listen to music, check GMail, even post here. This list goes on and on. There's even a dB meter that will test the surrounding noise levels. The reminder app has helped me regain a hold on tasks and accomplishments.

It feels good in your hands. It's light, thin and proving to be durable. After learning the basics of iPad usage the navigation is a snap. The virtual keyboard is still a slight problem, but it's apparent my clumsiness has a chance of disappearing. Besides, it's much larger than any cell phone keyboard.

Once again all my PC friends can make 'fanboy' jokes. Let me be the first to say that having a tablet of any kind is a bonus. Folks that use Kindle and Android report positive experiences. Thank goodness my friends chose to bless me with an iPad 2. I've learned more than how to use a tablet.

"Fast is fine, but accuracy is everything."
~Wyatt Earp