Guilty

Whenever I have to boot into Windows, I feel like I've done something wrong. Something bad.

At first, I thought that feeling was strange. But, I've found many others who feel the same. We share a common bond. We're all working to overcome it. We have a powerful tool. Something that can withstand the viral infestation that is Windows, or the spys that come with Windows, or the 'enemy as gifts' that come in Windows.

Unfortunately, because of school I have to occasionally boot into Windows. The other night, Nancy caught me:
"Oh my G-d, Danny! You promised," she said.
"But, but....it's for school," I replied.
"Don't give me that. You don't need that trash for school. I've seen you do your projects on Linux. You could use VMWare, or Xen virtualization."
"But, this is our assignment."
"I thought I could believe you. You promised you wouldn't do this again. All that educational porn you could access through Linux. All the gambling sites, all the hacking. But instead, you spend your time looking at THIS smut!" she yelled.
"It's just the Microsoft Managment Console," I admitted. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. It won't happen again."
She shook her head at me. "You filthy pig," she said, then spat on the ground. "You're too disgusting to even spit on. Microsoft Management Console. What next? Windows Vista?"
Then, she stormed off. I had to sleep outside. On the porch. In the cold.

Well, maybe it didn't go quite like that. Here's what really happened:
"Watcha working on?" she asked, looking over my shoulder.
"Microsoft Management Console. It's for my A+ class," I replied.
"Oh. Okay," she strugged, then went back to looking at houses. On her Ubuntu Linux computer.

The shame.

* * *

We went to Epcot the other day. It was the last day of our passes, or close enough that it would be the last chance we'd get to go for awhile. We got to ride the new updated, "The Seas with Nemo and Friends". It's the update to "The Living Seas".
No, that's not us. But you do get to ride in a turtle shell. Or clam shell. Or, whatever-the-hell-shell-they-tried-to-sell. I liked the change, but didn't like it. The update is cute, very well done, uses new technology, and is great for kids.
But, it 'unEpcoted' the whole experience. They made an impressive experience with the ocean to a cutesy Disney movie ride. Fine for Magic Kindom, or maybe MGM/Disney/PIXAR Studios, but out of place at Epcot. But, then so is the Princess Dining Experience, which ruined my enjoyment of the restaurant at Norway.
Take the kids out of the restaurant, keep the grown-up Disney princesses -maybe with different clothing/more skin, more alcohol, and a pole in the center of the room, and you'd have a nice change to a Disney experience. Maybe Steven Jobs might go for it?

Nancy did make some new friends

She told them how cute they were, and 'what wonderful and different markings'. When we walked away, she said, "How rude. They didn't say anything. Didn't even look at me. Maybe they're foreign. Where do you think they're from?"

"They're lego," I replied.
"Oooohhhh. I feel so bad. That explains it." She turned to look at them. "That's near Turkey, right?"
"No. Denmark,"I replied.

* * *

Parkour is an excellent activity. Uses all parts of fitness: Strength, Endurance, Flexibility. If you live through it, that is. Here's a good example: (notice the use of all part of fitness)

Blushing Bride

Little Miss Amy got married this weekend. She's now Mrs. Amy Khoury, wife of Elias John Khoury. The wedding was great. I liked the rehearsal dinner best; the food, I mean. Alex Khoury rented out Aladdin's Cafe in Casselberry. I was apprehensive about the food, but was more than impressed. Rates in the top five meals of my life now.

Here I am, in my Network (LAN) class. There's Professor Hennel teaching us how to hack into your computer. Thanks for those interesting files. Don't worry; I can't get any of your files from you logging onto my blog. If you log off; that's a different story. Keep away from the X in the upper right (Red dot in the upper left on Mac, or some versions of Linux).

I shaved the beard off for Amy's wedding. I might try the Goatee in the future, but I don't I'll be growing a beard anytime soon, unless I intend on visiting someplace really cold.

My prostate treatment is going good. I guess. Can't really tell much difference yet. I'm still going to the bathroom often, but not as often as before. I hope this clears up soon. Or, at the very least, gets a little better. It's frustrating. Especially not being able to really workout.

I've spent most of my time lately working on school projects. That, and helping Nancy prepare the house for sale (buy it, PLEASE!). Time for downsizing, and getting out of overconsumerland Winter Park.

The Dems won much of the election nationally. Republicans cleaned up locally -in Florida. Bill Nelson is still Senator. In my opinion, that's a good thing. I would have voted for the cigarette filled sand in Daytona over Katherine Harris. She may be competent, but I don't like her stance on issues. The selection of polititians was piss-poor. No one from The Emperial Party for Emperor Danny ran! What a waste. And those electronic voting machines? Insist on paper! Those eVoting machines are a joke. The only way I'd trust them is if a paper receipt was produced after the voting of each person.

Congradulations, Amy and Elias. Now, get to work on insuring my social security check!

Performance

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Roger Waters -formerly of Pink Floyd- performed THE WALL right where the Berlin Wall stood. It was musical performance that represent more than just a rock groups music. It was a change to a new time. In the 90's, it was for the better. Search youtube.com with Roger Waters Berlin as the subject. You'll find links to the complete perfomance.

If you were awake and aware during that time, it was a very moving experience. Here's my favorite part of the performance:

Static

The whole video blog thing is a good idea, but I should probably wait till I have better equipment. In the meantime, I'll stick with pictures, like this one:

As you can tell, I'm trying to grow a beard. I've never grown one, so I thought I'd see what it was like.

This pic was taken at the doctors office. That's right; Doctor. After many years, I finally relenquished, and was dragged kicking and screaming to the doctor. I'd prefer to go in unconscious.

I've been having middle-aged man problems. Not of the performance type. Not yet, at least. My prostate has been giving me problems for a few years, and in the last three months, it's been much worse. After having to get up and go pee twice during a timed test, I knew I had to do something. I got an ultrasound on a testicle -it was really swelling, and not for good reasons- and they found a cyst, causing a varicocele. It's not very comfortable, but it's not dangerous.

I avoided going to the doctor, mostly because I knew what was going to happen; I'd go through some test, be poked and prodded -or rather probed, then the doctor would say, "Yep, you're getting old. Sorry. That'll be $3000.

The first round of antibiotics they gave me knocked me on my ass. I haven't taken antibiotics in probably fifteen years. Maybe even longer. Within an hour of taking them, the level of fatigue was surprising. The weirdest thing is a bilateral 'neuralgia' pain. My left side aches, everywhere. The skin is so sensative, it feels like a sunburn. My muscles hurt, and the joints ache like crazy, but ONLY on the left side. Just the left. That's weird. They also gave me something for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. My health insurance is 911, so they gave me a good discount for paying cash.

I can't stand going to a doctor. It's like admitting defeat. Giving in. Giving up. Maybe not so much that, as the healthcare industry in USA is way out-of-wack. When someone I know who can afford the absolute best health insurance available, but still has to wait in the Emergency room overnight for a hospital bed to open, somethings wrong. Then again, that person was afforded no prejudice because he was wealthy. Still, it needs fixed. If I could afford insurace, I'd have gone to a doctor months, if not years ago. Specifically for this problem.

Maybe I watched the movie, John Q. too many times?

Because of this, I haven't been able to workout lately. That's frustrating too. I feel weak, tight, low energy. My waist is actually getting pudgy. In short, I'm becoming American. Maybe in a few months, I'll fit in.

Maybe not.

During all this, Nancy has been really supportive. And, very understanding. I haven't felt like 'me' lately, and those of you who know me will know what I mean. At least, now we know why; I'm gettin older. Five short years ago, I looked and felt much younger. People at my high school reunion recognized me easily, even when I couldn't recognize them. Now, I barely recognize myself.

* * * *

School is going well, even with the up and down during my tests. I've actually been writing more too. Next semester, I should be able to take more classes. And, these classes, except for the Linux Administration class, are ones I've not encountered.

Video Trials

I'm trying to make Video Blogs. So far, it's not all that great, but I'm working on it. I'm using the video capture feature on my iPAQ Pocket PC. It's not the best quality. By far. I'm also having to use Microsoft Movie Maker to put the pieces together. I haven't learned Kino in Linux yet. I already know Movie Maker. I'll work on it.

Here we go:

ACD

Australian Cattle Dog. That's what they're called. Queensland Blue Heeler is the fancy yuppy name. ACD. That's what they really are. If you've looked on my Flickr page, you've probably seen pictures of Chili. If not, shame on you.
Chili dog is a decendant of the Norse myth, Loki, a mythical being of mischief. At the very least, she's decended from his dogs. She's a handful, but an incredible joy.

Here's a video of another ACD. Enjoy:

Bossman Project

Not much has happened since my latest 'update' type post. Well, a few medical issues are getting taken care of, but other than that, no new issues. House hasn't sold yet - it's only been on the market for two weeks. I guess that's good, since we haven't found a house to move into yet. I'd be fine with a doublewide in Bithlo, but I think Nancy wants something a bit more 'comfortable'.

I've thought about expanding my Bossman Project. Besides giving away Ubuntu Linux based computers, I could actually have a business where I install Ubuntu on people's computer they thought were too outdated. I could help them have machines that are still quite capable or working, and working well. I'm not sure the details, but I could charge for installation, and any hardware improvements made; memory, larger and faster hard drive, etc. It would have to be a much more competative installation price than Windows. And, I could provide support. Just a thought.

Back to studying.

74% Geek

Maybe, by the end of my schooling, I'll score higher:

Digital Rights

The EFF (Electronic Frontier Foundation) has a website specific to the legal issues affecting Bloggers - like me. I don't have any cases filed against me. Not yet at least. But, I do think other bloggers need to be aware of legal issues regarding Blogging. Oh, and I highly hope you'll choose to support Digital Freedom. In the future, it might be the only place liberty is left.

Also, I hope you'll take the time to listen to at least some of Cory Doctorow's speech:

Cory Doctorow's Speech on Netscape Video

Online Storage

I'm glad to see things like MediaMax and Xdrive. Things like this give the average user ways to save or backup their files. It even gives small business tools to store information, and with what appears a decent level of security. If you have an AOL or AIM screenname, you can use that for your Xdrive signin.

Xdrive.com

MediaMax.com

I know; You don't want to bother with it right now. You'll do it later. You just want to finish reading my blog, then surf to whatever next page you're going. So......

Don't do that! Setup your accounts right NOW! At the very least, set up with just one.

Evacuation Procedures

This is very important information. By the early thirties, most men have already learned these important lessons. But, some have not. So I'll help out:



If you've watch the above video, you'll see how important mens restroom rules are. Indeed, modern civilization depends on them. If you're an employee, or even a student, this video instruction will help:



For men, todays lesson simply provided you with some reminders. For young men, you may have gained some insight as to why you get the crap beat out of you in the boys room in school. For children, you shouldn't be looking at my blog anyway. I've logged your IP address, and I'm going to tell your parental unit!

For women, the above videos may have seemed like humor. The humor is there, but the reality of the mens room is true to form.

White & Nerdy

"Weird Al" Yankovic's music video from his new album "Straight Outta Lynwood" (in stores Sept. 26). I'm not this far gone, but getting close!

Brain Dump

That's my nephew, Ben. We've just done a Putt-Putt course. He whooped me. Just look. That's probably what I look like as a corpse. Still holding my pocket computer.

This is one of those times when I open up a blog window, and have no idea what to write about. So, I'm just going to type what comes to my head.

My last post was on Steve Irwin's memorial service. I'm not sure why his death hit me as hard as it did. Maybe, I admire someone who lived life to the fullest. Maybe, I admire someone who lived a humble life, yet changed the world. Maybe, Steve was someone who showed us that living wealthy wasn't near as much fun as one would think. Steve really had fun, but did other things with money besides spend it on himself.

Why is it the richest people in the United States of America, the ones who espouse meritocracy, are the most liberal democrats. Not that I have a problem with it. Just makes you go, 'hmm'.

Why is it that when you ask for help, you don't always get the help you want, but you get the help you need. Oh, wait - Sorry Mick.

In my classes, I'm doing well. But, I feel lost. Not as lost as some other people in the classes. I can tell by their questions. I know the answers to some of their questions. I feel lost in the class. I can only imagine how they feel. Maybe things will come together in my head next week. Unless I have a brain aneurysm, or something like that.

I'm sure you've seen some of those 'prostate' commercials? Lately, I feel like a commercial. Scuse me, while I run to the bathroom. And, I'm just about ready to compute standing up. Until I get a handle on this, working out isn't an option. Anyone with any non-medical tricks, post a comment.

The Linux Link Tech Show is my favorite podcast. TWIT would probably be next, then Security Now. Linux Link would be incredibly boring to anyone not really techy, and into learning about Linux. TWIT would be someone interesting and informative to those at least mildly techy. Security Now should be listen to by anyone who is connected to the internet.

I've used Windows more this last week than in the last three months. Most of my homework is Windows based. Being on Windows so much makes me paranoid. I'm pretty good with security, but I don't feel well lately. I think I caught a virus from my computer.

Even though he's only a character in a comic strip, Wally will probably be seen as a prophet in the future. For those in cubicle work environments, he's probably seen as a prophet now.

Even though everyone knew she wasn't real, that that truth has come out, Lonelygirl15 -aka 'Bree'- is still entertaining. I hope they keep the show and drama going.

Ubuntu is still my Linux distro of choice. If I'm a good student, eat my veggies (except spinich, of course), say my prayers, I might get to work for a company like Red Hat or Canonical from home when I'm done with school. It could happen.

Jerk a tear, Mate

Intro at Steve's Memorial Service:



Steve's daughter, Bindi Sue, speaks:



The way a real adventurer would leave:




To my friends Down Under; Thank you, for giving the world such person as Steve Irwin. While it's a hugh loss for Australia, it's a loss for the entire planet. Not just for humanity, but all living creatures. We can be thankful that he truly lived life while he was here. Hopefully, we are all better for it.

Portable Virtual Computer

You could actually have your own computer, with absolute minimum of hardware. Here's how:

1. Acquire a copy of Ubuntu LiveCD
2. Get a 1-2 gig jumpdrive
3. Signup for Yahoo - and setup your Briefcase
4. Signup for Streamload.com and setup your folders
5. Signup for xdrive.com and setup your folders.
6. Startup any computer using the Ubuntu LiveCD
7. Setup your LiveCD and jumpdrive to work in Persistent Mode

Okay, so it's a little complicated. But, it can be done, and you can have your own 'computer' seperate from any other computer. If you're able to access the internet with your Persistent Computer, you can use Xdrive and Streamload to store large files. You can add programs to your jumpdrive. You won't need a regular hard drive. You can use any computer with a CD tray, and a USB port to have your own virtual computer. Use your friends computer. Work computer. While this is a very techy, it give you an option, just in case.

For instance, let's say a hurricane hits you, and you're completely wiped out. Even if you lose your CD and Jumpdrive, you'd still have your files online. You could burn another CD, acquire another jumpdrive, if you really needed those things. Or, maybe, you want to surf at work, without anything ever touching your work computer. It can be done. All this is very much a What would Wally Do? type of thing.

School is going good for me. I'm ahead in my classes. Today, we learned about looking up techy jobs. Maybe Disney will still be hiring when I'm done.

Purpose

During my first twenty years in the fitness game, I had a purpose. I went into fitness, mostly out of a natural evolution from my years as a competitive gymnast. My sport gave me an advantage in the fitness field. I liked fitness, but liking what you do isn't enough to push you. You need a reason much stronger than "I like it." Liking what you do is important. Very important, but it's just not enough. Not enough to get you through difficult times. Not enough to be worth low pay, or the difficulties that can come with high pay. Liking what you do is motivating, but motivation is just an emotion. It comes and goes.

A few years into the fitness business -about the time I started personal training- I decided I wanted to make an accomplishment. I was inspired by my fitness hero Jack LaLanne. I wanted to help 10,000 people improve their life by improving their fitness. My goal gave me more than just motivation. It provided me with determination. I was determined to make it happen. I was determined to work through the frustrations, the financially difficult summers and holidays that's part of being a trainer. I went through some interesting experiences, realizations, and even revolutions (not the political kind, of course). In twenty years in the fitness business, I learned as much about myself as I did about fitness.

I didn't change. The industry changed. And, the public changed. When I first started, much of the public was excited about fitness. Athletics, bodybuilding, running, biking, anything physical seem to be popular. Now, fit and athletic looking people get stares of distain in public. So many people want to be trainer that a new market has opened; training and marketing to trainers. The money to be made in the fitness and personal training industry doesn't come from clients. It comes from selling products and services to people who want to be trainers. That is not something I want part of. It just doesn't fit my purpose. Some of the products and services are very helpful. Most are not. Most are not needed.

I'm very close to the 8,000 mark on my goal. I'm making approximates there, based on my time as a floor instructor in different jobs, helping people online, and direct contact as a trainer. But, I'm close. And I'll keep working on it.

But, I have a new purpose. A purpose just as important; Information.

Over the last few months, I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do with a career in computers. I wasn't sure why I wanted to bother. Other than liking computers, I didn't know where to go with it. I knew it would probably provide me with a better living than personal training (at least, in a era when everyone and his brother, sister, cousin, aunt and uncle want to be a trainer).

If your reason for doing something isn't strong, anything will stop you. If you reason -your 'why'- is strong enough NOTHING can stop you.

I'm not sure who said that, but it sticks with me.

A few days ago, my draw to computers and technology became apparent. The why came to me:

It's about the information!

Information is power. It's a commodity. It's more important than money. It can provide liberty, or at least the knowledge of how to achieve it. Information, especially when openly shared, levels the playing field in an opportunity society. Just like education, the information itself is neutral. What is done with information, the action, is what makes the difference.

I want to be a part of something that helps provide people as much open access to information as possible. I want to help enable people with information. I want them to have the tools, or at least the access to the tools, to acquire whatever information they need or want. I want to help hundreds, thousands, maybe even millions have access to information.

I also want to help make sure information is open and shared. Only in a police state, an oppressive and controlling society, is information held back. It's controlled. The only control information should have is by the reciever, not the deliverer or the middleman. If the goverment can have access to it, everyone should have access to it!

That is why technology is so important to me. A tool to acquire and maintain liberty.

School Update

I'm taking A+Software, and Networking. Maybe a better student could do a full load. Maybe a better student could do a full load, work full time, sleep four hours or less. Maybe a better student could do a full load, work full time, start a boot-strap business, sleep four hours or less, and have a girlfriend. Then again, maybe those overachiever types just have no real life, and only find that out later, after they've wasted it in pursuit of ...what? I bet they don't even have a real girlfriend.

I really enjoy the subject I'm majoring in. Studying doesn't feel like studying. It feels like 'playing on the computer'. Yeah, I'll be able to get a reliable job, or my own reliable company in the future, but really I get to play with 3-D puzzles all day.

I'm not one of those 'better students'. I have learned to overcome some organized education difficulties (I have no problem with organized religion...it's organized education I can't stand). I know that I learn different. I know how I learn, and how to make it work for me. Ideally, I'd do an independent study program. Unfortunately, that's not how things are done. At least, not yet.

I'm not able to sit down, and study for hours. I study in bit and pieces. Usually, no more than 12-20 minutes at a time. Twenty minutes is as long as I can hold. I am able to go into hyperfocus, but only to the exclusion of anything else around. Including meals, and even work. The only thing that breaks my hyperfocus spells in a trip to the bathroom. My hyperfocus spells can last hours, sometimes even days. Most of the Russian I learned actually came from just one weekend, followed by bits and pieces here and there. The problem is; I don't get to choose when to hyperfocus. It's not something I've ever been able to control.

I've decided to cut back on some work, namely work at Sports Authority. I need the time to study, and open time for another client. Two more clients will bring in more than I was making, and reduce my time-load. Basically, this shows me that Personal Training will always be part of my life, my career, and especially my income. I'm glad of that.

Nudity

The only real nudity here is the experiment to get my ranking higher in google.

Here's my current Ubuntu Linux Screenshot:

Some of my friends and family ask, "Why are you on such an Ubuntu kick?" To answer truthfully;

I'm not on an Ubuntu kick. I'm on a FREE, Virus Free, Adware Free, easy-t0-use, keep old computers working operating system kick.

If Windows did it, I'd be on a Windows kick. If Mac OS X did it....you get the idea.

As far as Ubuntu goes, it's just the current easiest to install and use. It's not without it's problems. This week, in fact, Ubuntu has a serious bug in an update which caused thousands, if not millions, of users to not be able to get their computer working. Some computer complusive/obsessive types, like me, worked for hours to get it working again. Ubuntu had a fix up in a few hours, but not before many people reformatted their system, and possibly lost data. Luckily, I had to visit with family, so I wasn't at home to obsess over a fix. I got home in time for the official fix to work.

No operating system is without it's bugs, Linux included. But, try to get OS X working on an old iMac G3, 333 Mhz, or Windows XP on a Compaq 400 Mhz computer. It might get on there, but go eat dinner while your programs boot up. With Xubuntu (the XFCE version of Ubuntu) the work, faster than the did with Windows98, or Mac OS 8-9.

Soon enough, another Linux distribution will out-do Ubuntu. I'll probably use that one. Right now, Mark Shuttleworth has Ubuntu on top of the world. It comes on one CD. That's a big reason its so popular.

Tomorrow, I'll have some family pics up. Maybe ya'll will tell me which you like better; family pics or tech talk.

Scripture

"I don't like organized religion."

How many times have you heard that statement? I've heard too many times. Obviously, the people who say such nonsense didn't listen up in English class. Is there a religion that isn't organized? What would a disorganized religion be like? My guess; it would probably resemble something like a corporation.

I'm sure many of my readers are religious, and others had religion class in college. Some of you might even be part of an organized religion. Personally, I've got no problem with organized religion. What I have a problem with is; scripture.

To the non-religious type, that may seem obvious. "It's all stupid anyway," is something you'd hear them say. To be accurate, I actually never get to the part of distrusting scripture.

I distrust anyone who tells me any writing is the word of God. How do they know this? Because they heard if from another man? Who did that man hear it from? How far back of a chain of trust do we go on that? How many people have to be trusted when I'm told, this is Gods words.

People of various faiths are true believers. We see that, and how it can create problem in todays world. Not much different that 1000 years ago. (Thank again, Pope Urban!).

Why should I believe the words of man, when he tells me, "This is the word of God!"? Why should I believe man when he tells others what God wants, or what God says, or God's plan. When he tells me these things, why should I believe him? Which of these men would God have me trust? And why would he have me trust them?

Some people treat scientist as a religion. Interestingly enough, most scientist don't treat it like that. But for some, science is their religion. It seems that the people who understand the least about a particular science -physics, for instance- place complete trust in it's principles, or Laws. They give it absolution -and some even give absolution itself religious respect. It's interesting to watch these people as their own priests -scientists- prove the laws wrong. The scientist merely take note of it on their way to discovery, while the followers argue the findings.

In the United States of American, we have our own organized religion. It's called The Law. We have our High Priests and Priestesses -Supreme Court Justices. We have lower Priests- District Courts, Federal Courts, State and County Court Judges. We have our local Priests, and thousands of monks. Just like all the religions that came before the, they speak the language of the ruling class; Legalese. We have to have them translate legalese for us. We must give offering to The Law for the priviledge of tranlation. And, just like in all old religions, the wealth hobnobbed with the and most renouned monks and priests. Not much has changed. It just looks and sounds different. Sure, the rules are different, but the format rarely changes much.

I'm not against religion -organized or disorganized. And I don't really distrust scripture, no matter what book it comes from.

I distrust MAN! Somehow, I don't think God would have a problem with that.

Swimming Chili

Watch the dog swim.
Swim, dog. Swim!

Good Dog, Chili.

Managing Management

Today, I rested. I've needed it for some reason. I think I'm not getting enough sleep in general, and it built up today.

This is what I worked on today:

Not the computer, but the sticker on it. I saw some on the Ubuntuforums site, and decided to make my own. It came out better than I thought it would. I need some practice at cutting them out, but it's good enough.

I started with this image:
Then I:

1. Printed out a sheet of them on photo paper. I printed lines of ten, three different versions, just in case.
2. Covered the image on the paper with clear packing tape.
3. Cut out the image with scissors (need to get better at that, or get better glasses)
   
4. Use the XYRON Create-a-sticker maker, and that put the sticky backing on to make it a sticker.

It came out okay. Nancy's came out better, but the flash was so bright on the picture, it drowned it out. I know this wasn't anything technical, but it was craft-like, and it was fun. I could have sent a return envelop to System76 and asked for the free stickers, but I decided to try it myself.

Nevermind that the computer in the picture is actually using Xubuntu, the XFCE version of Ubuntu. The computer is a 400 Mhz, 360 Meg memory, 8 gig harddrive I bought in 1998. It was super fast back then. It's old enough that Compaq doesn't keep specific information about it on it's website. It's super fast again. Xubuntu gave it new life, and hopefully, someone will get use from it.

In Other News
I've done pretty well at managing management. I should; I've studied Dilbert long enough. I use three main principles I learned from Wally:

1. Strategic Incompetence
2. Procedural Insistence
3. And do avoid actual work, random OCD focus

With Strategic Incompetence, you randomly portray yourself as incompetent at specific activities. Some of these may actually be honest incompetencies, but consider this: Is management ever actually honest with you?? For instance, I don't see colors well, especially in florescent light. In sunlight, I'm fine. The strategic incompentence part here is that I'm not able to do some work because of the handcap. I could never really work well in the clothing department. A customer comes up to me and asked, "Does this come in red?" My reply is, "You mean, does it come in darker grey?" After the strange look they give me I say, "What color is that? I can't see colors well." The hyperfocused customer usually says, "Nevermind", and walks away. To be completely honest, it seems that my color problem applies mostly to dies in clothing, and some cheap dies on cardboard. I can see most colors on plastics and metals. I have no idea why is works like that. It does seem to get worse as I get older.

I also have a condition called "Dysnomia". It's kind of like dyslexia, except it's specific to numbers. When I try to write a 6, I might write a six or a nine. I struggle greatly to tell the difference, but only when I'm writing it by hand. The transfer of the image from my eyes to my brain works fine. I know the difference from 6 and 9 when I see it. But, when I try to write it, the motorskill gets confused somehow. This is how it was explained to me at the learning center at University of Georgia. It's caused by anxiety.

Now, can you get how to turn this honest condition into a strategic incompetence?

That's right; Anything to do with numbers. Nevermind that I do just fine on a keyboard, or a tenkey pad. The positions of 6 and 9 are easy to remember (hope I got it right that time). But, after pricing things at $66.66, when they should have been $99.99, do you think they make you do any more tedious pricing of merchandise? Especially when you insist it actually is $99.99, and they are being mean by making fun of you!

The key to Strategic Incompetence is that is has to be based somewhat on an honest problem. But, since management tends to overemphasis the importance of things, you can too.

Procedural Insistence can only be applied for specific jobs, or low paying jobs. The basic idea here is that You're getting paid to follow procedure, not to think. You may have actually been told that at one time. Or, if you're like me, you arrange for them to say that at one time, and continously remind them of that.

The key to making procedural insistence pay off is; If you do something wrong, it's management's fault, not yours! THEY didn't teach you the correct procedure, or their procedural teaching methods where faulty or incomplete.
Chain and/or franchise stores depend on systems and procedures. As a worker, USE THAT FACT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE! Be careful, though. They might decide to make you part of management.

Anonther way to use procedural insistence is when a boss, foreman, or the like says something like, "What are/were you thinking?"

You should reply: "Hold on there! My payrate is for following procedures, not to think. If you want me to think, we can negotiate my payrate. If I've done something wrong here, it's because YOU didn't teach me the correct procedure."

Actually, it's not a good idea to blame the boss for the problem. It's always better to blame the procedure. Its an inanimate thing. It has no feelings. When the procedure is wrong, no one is to blame -except the person who designed the procedure, and they probably don't work there anymore. If anyone at present is to blame, it's the person who was suppose to teach you the procedure. In that case, use the government-speak, passive voice version: I wasn't taught the correct procedure. Blame is never placed.

Random OCD Focus is a difficult one, and can sometimes take more work than actual work. The payoff is that it's much more fun that real work.
The strategy here is to randomly focus on something pecular to the exclusion of anything else, even being able to hear your boss. For instance, if you work in clothing merchandise, you would obsess on making sure items were folded correctly. To make it really effective, focus on the same item, over and over. If the management attempts to get you to do something else, you insist on getting it right. At some point, they may actually ask you what wrong. You could simply say that your stressed, or you could say nothings wrong.

This strategy has to be one very infrequently. Once every three months is even a risk. The risk? Being marked by the management for 'encouragement to quit'. If your normally a hard worker, they'll overlook it a few times.

It amazes me how people actually let management manage them. The best employees know how to manage management.

Haunted Mansion

This is a full ride throught Disneyland's Haunted Mansion. It's a really well done video:

iPod, Music, and Podcasts

Take the iPod:

This little-one obviously likes it

iPods are incredibly popular devices. The dominate the market so much that you might hear monopoly applied to it. It's become the Kleenex, or the Xerox of digital media players. It doesn't matter that there are other manufacturers out there; everything's an iPod to the public. iPods are everywhere, so much so that most acccesories are manufactured only for the iPod. Many of the accessories will work with other players, but some won't.

The iPod is nice. The top model will hold more songs than most people will listen to in their lifetime. It will hold more audiobooks than you'll see on the shelves at any bookstore. The new ones will display pictures and play videos.

The only thing I don't like about iPods is the control Apple holds over them. You pretty much have to use iTunes to load them. Apple likes to have everything in their acc format. You can't use wma (Windows Media Audio), wmv (Windows Media Video), or ogg (Ogg Vorbis) formats. In my opinion, ogg is a superior sound quality, but the iPod won't play it.

There are other options. A new one is the Clix:

This little bugger will play more types of files than an iPod. It was announced today, so I'd wait to see what problems arise. iRiver has other players, but this one looks promising.

Creative has the Zen, and they have lots of different kinds:
I hear good things about the Zen. I'm not sure if it supports ogg format.

If you use, or want, and iPod, you'll have to use iTunes on Windows or Mac with it. You can use gtkpod for it on any Linux distribution. I'm not sure how the others link up, but I understand the Zen hooks up with Linux easily.

I get no ad money for these links. If I had an affiliation with any of them, I would. Mostly, I wanted you to know there are options for portable music.

I don't listen to music that much. Rarely in fact. I listen to audiobooks and podcasts.

What is a podcast?
A good explaination is on the podcast.yahoo.com page:

"Think of a podcast as a radio show. Each show consists of a series of individual episodes that you can listen to how you want — on your PC, using your MP3 player, or with just a web browser.

If you've never listened to podcasts, you're in for a treat. Sports, comedy, movies, food, politics, music, books, speeches, walking tours, whatever — you name the topic and you'll find podcasts about it. Not only do you have incredible choice, you can listen whenever and wherever you want.

You can listen to these episodes one at a time (say using your web browser) or you can 'subscribe' to the entire podcast series using software on your PC. When you subscribe to a podcast, all new shows will be automatically downloaded to your computer as they are published. And if you have an MP3 player, the next time you sync your device, your podcasts will be downloaded for listening on the go.

When you enter the world of podcasting, you're stepping into a realm where anyone and everyone can have a voice and broadcast their opinions and imagination to the world. Have fun exploring, and perhaps you too may feel the urge to become a podcaster. If you do, it's easy."

Apple's Garageband program comes with support for creating podcasts. I use iPodder.org's Juice to download all my podcasts. Most of them are tech based. You can use the Yahoo site too.

Okay, enough iPod stuff.

I register for classes yesterday. I'm taking A+ Software and Local Area Networks. Last semester, my class was only one day a week. I had to do something on the class website almost everyday, but we only did lab one day a week. This semester, I'll be in class four days a week. It'll be like real school. Almost.

Too Techy

I've probably lost some readers because my blog is getting too techy. It's getting too techy because I'm getting more techy. I think readers seem to be more interested in my personal life. Thing is, the technology part is my personal life, at least at the moment. Since I'm in school for technology, it comsumes a large part of my day, and my attention. I can't apologize for this. It's what it is. If my focus on technology turns you off, and makes you not want to read, all I can say is; "Go ahead. Be a fool and carelessly use Windows."

Opps. There I go again.

We had an Epson Printer go down on me, recently. No, not that kind of 'go down'. It's stopped working. It gave me a message say, "Go get this hulking machine serviced, you stupid idiot." Those weren't the exact words, but I'm sure that's what it was thinking. I emailed the Epson people, and they sent back a reply telling me to switch off and on a specific locking mechanism five times, then dance in a circle. I did, and it worked! I used the Highland Fling, just to be extra sure. Besides, it was the only dance I knew that actually went in a circle. Who knew the Epson guys were Scottish?

If Wal Mart opens in Norway, I'm not going there! It will simply become, USA, Part II. I don't dislike Wal Mart. I dislike the effect it has on the landscape of our country. And the effect it has on our country. Much like Sports Authority, much of the merchandise comes for China. They make the stuff, we sell it, and on occasion, service it. Everywhere we go looks like everywhere else, but with different weather. McDonalds, Wal Mart, KMart, etc. All the chain and franchise stores have little except help us part with more money. They have made less expenive merchandise, but at what costs?

It truly happened; We've become a consumer/service society. The United States of America actually DEPENDS on it's citizens overspending themselves. It depends on our hunger for stuff. It depends on us spending more than we have, or could ever actually make. It depends on our lack of self-discipline, and encourages over-consumption.

Conservative though says, "The rest of the world is jealous." Liberal though says, "The rest of the world despises us." Both extremes are wrong, and neither actually helps our image Worldwide. The rest of the world isn't jealous of us. They see us as self-important, over-consuming, close-minded, single languaged idiots. On that, they'd be right. What they see, and say, is that American's are nice, wonderful, and loving people, who have no clue of the gift and advantage we have by being born US citizens. They'd be right.

So, with that in mind, I'm for a new deportation program. Not the illegal aliens coming to the United States. They appreciate what we have. While they got here illegally, they follow the laws once they're here -generally. They don't want to be deported, especially back to their homelands.

We need to deport some of our own! We'll start with the hardened criminals. They're mostly mental cases anyway. Next, the sex offenders. People who mess with children should be offered the option of honorable suicide; the only current treatment plan available for them.

When we deport people, we'll put them on 'prison ships' and let them go where they are taken by the ship owners. As long as it's not the United States, it don't matter.

So, who should be deported? Instead of starting at the top of the list, lets make the list upside down. That way, we get rid of potential problems too.

1. Traffic violators - This would cut auto insurance rates way down, or possibly even do away with the need for them at all.
2. Shoplifters- They make prices go up on us all.
3. Insurance Fraud gangs - The real reason insurance prices are high. Quit blaming the Lawyers. Put the blame where it really goes.
4. Domestic Violence offenders - become safe, in your own home.
5. Petty, repeat criminals - where most crime actually takes place on a daily basis
6. Hardened Criminals - instead of deporting these people, they are inducted into the military, or FBI.
   
7. Talented Criminals - Serial Killers, etc. These people have employable skills. Probably as subcontractors, of course. The United States would never actually hire a known serial killer as an employee.
8. Women who wear too much makeup. Because, I don't like it! Thats why.

Enough commentary for tonight.

Vista vs Linux

I just listen to a Security Now podcast by Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte about Microsoft Vista. I highly suggest listening to it before getting excited about Windows VISTA .

Download the podcast by clicking here, then go back and download all the Security Now Podcasts.

While I appreciate the hard work Microsoft employees put into Vista, it's just not ready, and not going to be read. One thing I didn't know until after I listen to the podcast; WindowsXP is just Windows2000 Professional with eye candy. I recommend waiting at least a year, if not two, before upgrading your Windows machine to Vista. I'd recommend getting a Mac way before I'd recommend getting Windows, but I'd recommend getting a cheap desktop from Wal Mart, erase Windows, and put Linux on, especially Ubuntu Linux. At the very least, set up a dual boot system.

Speaking of dual boot, I set up my stepkids with dual boot machines. I recommend using Windows only for games to them. I futher recommend using XBox for games, and using Windows rarely. Hopefully, they'll post their experiences with dual boot machines here, and you'll get to hear the cheers or jeers for Linux.

In my opinion, Microsoft's not a fault here. Malicious users are (bad hackers). I know a lot of people out there don't like Microsoft's business tatics, and I'd have to agree with that, but they have worked hard for what they've built.

In other news: My dry period (exercise wise) is over, now that my class is complete. I do have another class coming up, but I feel much more prepared for it. Could be wrong, but I plan to keep training through it anyway. I don't have enough money to NOT exercise.

Portable Applications

Do you have one of those USB jumpdrives? You know; you can keep your files on it, and plug it into any computer. If you do, you might want to consider keeping some Portable Applications on it.

Portable Applications like:

• OpenOffice
• Firefox
• ClamWin - a portabable antivirus program
• or even a whole Suite of Applications, if you have at least a 512meg jumpdrive

Having portable Applications on a jumpdrive is like having a computer, without the computer.

These applications currently run on Windows. There's not yet a Mac version, and I doubt they'll ever be developed for Mac. They're just not needed on Mac systems. Most Linux systems come with these applications.

At the very least, you'll impress even techy friends with portable applications.

Oh, and they're FREE.

House of Thompson

The supreme and kinda-sorta-powerful House of Thompson has posterity. This is Ben Thompson. He will soon be three. A wise and confident sort, he is. Good Scottish/Irish/Celtic stock there. When he's older, I'm sure that smile of his will insure the continuation of The House of Thompson. Ben's father, Mark Thompson, gave me permission to post Ben's picture. I need to get some pictures of Andy, my brother Brian's son. I'll see if I can get that in this week.

Get this: I'm the Patriarch of the House of Thompson! I'm the current oldest surviving HOT male (I just love writing it that way -HOT male). Me. My granddad and Dad had to pass on, and leave ME in charge! I'm just too lazy to control our familia secret society. Opps. Not suppose to talk about that. Nevermind.

Speaking of laziness, what if the Anti-Christ is already here, but he's too lazy to do the job? Or he's a meth-head, just looking for his next dose. The zealots assume he'll know better. They also assume he's a he. I think he's going to be a she. Maybe, the anti-christ is a crack-ho.

While the discussions of Global Warming are debated, at the very least, we need to figure what to do, just in case it might actually be real. Since global warming has occured before humans were around, and even when we wore animal skins, I could buy the argument that we're not the cause of it. That it's a natural phenomenon. But, that doesn't help with WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO? How are we going to respond to it. Survive? I think the weather is going to get pretty wacky over the next few years. Maybe even quicker.

Just in case, I'm going to buy a couple of inflatable Kayaks. A House of Thompson Ark.

Sometimes, Computer are like this

Things of beauty at the start, crumble to pieces. How you handle it makes all the difference

Home Made Tank

This brings back some code enforcement memories:

Hardware Success

I took my A+Hardware class final tonight. I got a perfect score; 660 out of 660. 66 questions, 10 points each. I studied enough, I guess. My average in the class was 94.24. I missed a few assignments, but I guess it was good enough to keep an A.

I have to take the CompTIA test to get the certification, but I'll probably do that in a few weeks. I'll have to take the A+Software class to get the full certification. I'm not sure what other classes I'll take next semester.

I set Nancy up with a Ubuntu Linux desktop. I'm jealous of her flat panel display. I put together the computer I was using when I tried out Fedora Core, and then Ubuntu. She got a cheap harddrive, and I loaded Ubuntu on it, and put only the software she really needs. I copied files from her Mac to her Ubuntu computer, so at the very least, she'll have a backup computer. I think she'll like the new computer, once she gets use to a few differences. Knowing how to use Linux, she'll be ahead of the game.

Here's a pic of Norway. It's just a snapshot someone posted on Flickr.com. Looks good, don't it. No McDonald's, no Wal Mart, no Best Buy, not even a Subway. I hope America can keep a few places like this. The only ones I know of are the National Parks. Thank You, Teddy Roosevelt!

16 Hours

Yesterday, I spent 16 Hours at the computer. Studying. Actually I was finishing the last assignments, reviews, and tests of the semester. I was a bit behind, but didn't realize it. Not too far, but it was really good that I didn't have to work yesterday.

My Personal Training business is picking up. I haven't even been trying to get more clients. I knew it would pick up eventually. Funny how things happen all at once. One client is going to be training on his own in a few weeks. Cool guy too. I'll miss seeing him, but that's part of the business. Making personal connectings with your clients is necessary, to really understand how to help them best. It also makes it harder when it's time for them to move on, because it feels like losing a friend. Like I said, it's part of the business. For whatever reason, when it's time for someone to move on, you have to let them, and encourage them to continue training. Some trainers panick at it, but mostly because of the hit in income. But, I've always believe that if I do my job, the clients will come. And they do. Good thing too.

Tomorrow, I'm giving away a computer. I hope there's a wireless access point nearby. In a neighborhood, there usually is. Many of them. The Belkin Wireless USB Network Adapter that works with Ubuntu Linux doesn't have a place for an external antenna. I've cracked open a different model, and didn't find anything resembling antenna. Just a chip. Maybe, somewhere on the net is a 'hacking a USB adapter' to put an antenna on it. If there is, comment for me, or email me the link.

My pattern of training is off. Really off. That's all I'm gonna say on that subject (buring head in fitness shame). No excuses - though I have some good ones.

Sorry no pics today. No Google or YouTube videos either. Couldn't find any good ones.

Mini

I use to think the Mac Mini was one of the best deals for a new computer. I still think it's an excellent option, but now, it's another option. From a System76, comes the Koala Mini:

It does look very close to a Mac Mini:

It's not that Koala copied Apple. They used the Mini ITX motherboard form factor, like Apple did for the Mac Mini. The differece is that Koala uses Ubuntu for their operating system. The price is cheaper too. Not much, but cheap enough.

I like seeing things like this; computer prices dropping, and getting smaller. Desktops will get cheaper too, especially when they use Linux.

It's my prediction that by next year, Christmas 07 probably, we'll see computers drop below the $150 mark. You'll see Linux on more computers, even in places like Best Buy, or CompUSA. You'll especially see them in Wal Mart. Microsoft Vista will be a nice operating system, but I don't think most people will forgo their current hardware when another operating system will work better.

If you have a computer now, chances are Vista won't work on it. At least, not very well. If you have an older computer, it won't work at all.

But Linux will. It will work just fine.

Mac OS is a good operating system. Probably a wee bit more secure than Linux. It also has nice eye-candy -something important for comsumers. The Mac Mini is a great computer. If money's not a problem, get a mac mini. If money's tight -get a used computer, and load Ubuntu on it.

Swimming in 1632

Last week, we worked on the dogs swimming skills. It was so hot after the walks, we thought they'd enjoy a dip in the pool. They did, especially Chili. Ginny has tendency of trying to put her hind legs down to stand up in the water. She hasn't quite got the idea of keeping her back end up. Chili, however, loves doing laps with us. She tends to gulp too much water though.

So far, the Belkin Wireless G USB Network Adapter is working on Ubuntu Linux. Now, I can focus more brain cells on school. What little cells I have left.

Don't forget to read Nancy's Blog: http://www.wayworm.com.
She's hard at work putting together her short story book. When's she's done, I'll format it, we'll get it edited, and sent to the publisher. We'll do Cory Doctorow style marketing, except for the worldwide speeches. Unless Nancy's up for the travel.

In between all the studying and working, I'm reading the book, 1632, by Eric Flint. If you're into adventure, scifi, and history, this series of books is just for you. I highly recommend them.

Ubuntu Bossman Wireless Success

At least, so far.

I've been a busy boy the last few days. On Monday, my laptop crapped out. It wouldn't start past the ATI (video card) driver. That has been a problem in the past, but it may have been even more of a problem than I though. Seems after checking my hard drive, it was a sick little thing. Lots of errors. I ran a few utilities, and fixed the errors on the disk, as far as I could tell. I reinstalled Windows, and I was able to install Ubuntu on it. I'm still setting up all the programs on both partitions. Every time I have to do this -and if you use Windows, you will- I get better at it. My system gets leaner, and I use fewer programs.

Hopefully, I've finally found the wireless option for Linux: the Belkin Wireless G USB Network Adapter.

It didn't work, at first, only to find out I hadn't actually plugged it in. Then it didn't work quite right, till I realized that using the USB harddrive on the front USB connectors interfers with the connectors in the back. After unplugging the hard drive from the back, restarting the computer, Ubuntu recognized the adapter and network right away. I restarted the computer a few times, just to make sure it wouldn't lock up. No problems. So far, this is the wireless solution I've been looking for.

Back to studying.

Queen

This has to be, the best rock video I've ever seen in my life:



Thank you, British Royal Navy.

Change

Technology is becoming harder to explain, and even more difficult to understand. The new Intel Core2 Duo, for instance, may run at a slower speed, it's much faster. The clock speed of a chip is no longer the strong selling point. A Core2 Duo running at 2 Ghz would be somewhat comparable to a 7 Ghz chip. But, the Core2 Duo would use less power, and generate less heat. Supposedly.

Now, if you're not a techy, the previous paragraph probably made little sense. More likely, after the second sentence, you skipped to this one. So did everyone else.

What the techy world misses is that the average person just wants their equipment to work, and work well. They want it to be fast. They don't care if it's in gigahertz, megahertz, or hertz rent-a-car.

The ads might as well say, "This computer has more torque than any other computer in it's class." It would make as much sense to the average user.

My point?
We've got millions of pounds of older equipment around that work just fine. The computer I'm using right now is probably three to four years old, but with Linux, it's fast. I also have WindowsXP Professional on this computer, and it's more than fast enough, but Linux is way faster.

Contrary to popular belief, I'm not preaching the gospel of Linux. I am pointing out that most people don't need to upgrade their hardware, they need to convert their Operation System to a more efficent one.

I do appreciate good hardware, and am looking forward to hearing more about systems like the Dell XPS 700, or the Alienware Aurora ALX.

Personally, I'd go for the Aurora ALX. But, I don't need it. I have no use for four water-cooled graphics cards. Four hard drives. I'm not a gamer. Not an engineer. Not even good at math. Maybe conceptual math, but not good at numbers. The more I use older, lower-end equipment, the more in learn that it's still more than good enough.

I highly encourage you to keep your old equipment, and find ways to keep it in use. If you have a 600 Mhz computer, or anything Pentium II, load Xubuntu on it. Keep it, or give it away, but don't throw it away. We don't need to trash up things more, especially with something that still works just fine.

My Prediction

In the next few years, a cottage industry will arise with the purpose of keeping old equipment in use. Services will come forth that will provide support for those systems, for only a few dollars. We use to have the friendly neighborhood shade-tree mechanic. Now, we'll have the friendly neighborhood shade-tree geek.

Maybe, it could be me?

russian climbing

Brings Back Memories.

Behind the Times

I thought I was up-to-date on technology, but I can see now I'm behind the times. Here are some guys playing around at the Area51 Campus:




I think invisible Inline Skates would look silly on me, though.

2nd Hiccup

Two steps forward, one step back.

When I tried to restart the computer (without disabling the wireless connection), Ubuntu hung at "configuring network interfaces". Took the wireless card out, restarted the computer, and it worked, but it will not go past 'configuring...." with the card in now.

I'm up too late with this again. At the very least, I know the Belkin card will work. It just has to be disabled everytime before the computer is shut down. I think.

Ubuntu Wireless Success!

I'm writing this post from on a wireless connection through Ubuntu Linux. It seems the updated kernel enhancements enabled the driver for the Belkin PCI Wireless G card. This is a huge jump in capability for my project. Now, I can offer people a wireless enabled computer. The next part of my project will envolve building a few Pringles Can antennas. I've even seen some built with a handgrip for wardriving. When The Bossman Project has some laptops to give out, I might consider making a few of those, or just some simple antenna extensions.

I was off work today, and spent all day doing homework and lab work. Our 'lab work' is mostly using a simulation program. While the simulation is a great tool, it doesn't complete the kinetic learning necessary with technical labor (did I make any sense at all there?). Having all these computer to work on during this class was a big help. I would do a simulation, then actually try it with real equipment. If I could find the right parts, that is.

I'm really glad I took a friends advice, and didn't take any other classes this semester. While A+ Hardware might not be that difficult for some, and even with the hardware experience I've had, it hasn't been easy. But, it has been loads of fun. How sick is that?

Now, even with my wireless success on Ubuntu Linux, the real success remains to be seen. I haven't restarted this computer. In the past, when I've restarted with the wirless card activated, Linux wouldn't boot up all the way. It would stick on 'configuring network'. My coach used to say, "Once is luck. Twice is coincidence. Three times, it's a skill."

I'll need to get it to work on restart, and two other computers to make wireless on Ubuntu Linux a skill.

The Bossman Project has an email address: bossmanproject@hotmail.com

I'm in need of:

• Monitors
• Belkin Wireless cards (I know they work, now)
• 60-80 gig hard drives, preferable 7200rpm

The hard drives that came with the computers are on their last leg. Three of them are giving me; imminent failure warnings, so they can't be depended on much longer.

Eventually, I'll set up a website. Maybe I can use that to learn and practice Nvu.

Bossman Hiccup

I'm having to change my Bossman strategy. Instead of using Linux only as an OS, (particularly Ubuntu), I've decide to add a Windows partition. My 'acquired' a copy of Windows 2000 Professional, and I can put that on almost any machine. The biggest problem is I still haven't figured out wireless. I'll probably get it figured out soon enough, but I want to get some computers in peoples hands. I can set up a dual boot system, so my donations can get use to Linux. Even when I use Windows, I'm loading it with Free and/or Open Source Software (FOSS). I'd prefer to be all Free and Open Source, but I just don't have the expertise. Not yet. I'm not happy with this situation, but it will do for now.

Dead Man's Chest (Pirates of the Carribean) is really good. Long, but really good. It keeps moving. I highly suggest going and seeing it. It didn't knock off Spiderman as the top opening movie for nothing. Even though there are more people in the ending credits than in Orlando, stay through them, and watch the rest of the movie.

ALERT!

It's now uncovered that Presidents Washington and Lincoln used electronic surveilance:



I feel much safer with intelligent people like The Attorney General of the United States Alberto Gonzales in charge.

Mic and Wireless

My technical progress is picking up. I conquered the mic problem with Ubuntu Linux. It was actually a simple one. For some weird reason, the mic installs muted. I guess there is a good reason for that, and I'll understand it later, but not right now. I'm closer to getting the wireless to work. I know it does. I see many people on the message boards getting it to work. It seems to be a bit complicated, but it does work.

I'm beginning to think that the REAL purpose of the retail industry is not to make money, but to get more Americans to not like America or Americans. If that's the case, it's working. Perfectly. I was shocked to realize how many retail companies were open on INDEPENDENCE DAY!! Not even the wonder Mexican Restaurant we like -El Potro- was open. At least THEY understand the value, or at least the illusion of, FREEDOM. But not the over consuming, self important, fat-ass owners and board members of retail companies. I can understand some being open (Home Depot -for minor home emergencies- and even Wal Mart), but most don't need to be. Restaurants are generally okay to be open, but not freakin retail companies.

Maybe I'm more patriotic than I thought, even though I'd like to move to Norway.

Pack Leader

I might have introduced the newest member of our pack, Ginny, but I couldn't remember, and was too lazy to look back through my blog entries. I don't keep a database of them in my head.

Ginny Loo Who is what Nancy calls her. Ginny is a wonderful, full blooded, Lousianna Catahoula Leopard Dog. A bit like a Blue Tick Coonhound, but with smaller ears. These dogs are bread to heard pigs, goats, and sometimes cattle. Mostly pigs. Big ones. Really big ones. Catahoula is a parish in Lousianna. The breed is named for the parish. Leopard describes their appearance. Spotted. Ginny's coloring is described as 'patchwork'. These are good dogs to have if you have children, but you have to get them to learn not to jump up on the kids. Other than that, they are wonderful with kids.

Nancy and I have been watching the Dog Whisperer - Cesar Millan.

We've learned we've made some mistakes training the dog. Mostly, we treated them like little children. They're not. They dogs, and their natural thinking is pack behavior. Cesar trains dogs in a pack leader position. Nancy and I have bought and watch the first season of Dog Whisperer, and have already learned a lot. Nancy's a bit reluctant to position herself as pack leader, so I'm taking to position (Danny beating his chest). It works. It works really well. I HIGHLY recommend getting those DVD's, and learning how he is with dogs.

I used the pack leader position today to get the dogs to swim. They did just fine. They were not happy with it at first, and it will take them awhile to get through the panic. If you have a dog, become the pack leader. I think anyone who has to manage people should learn how to be a calm, assertive pack leader.

Nevermind that. Most people aren't as smart as dogs.