Monday, July 28, 2008
Please Standby....
I'm clearly in the process of getting this thing migrated, I apologize for the mess. I'll have this thing up and running soon, thanks for the patience.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Camping Trip - Day 4
The final full day of our trip was spent in Duluth. Images will be up, not until we get back.
The morning started with an ambitous plan for pancakes on the camp stove, those plans were foiled by the nefarious rain of doom. Instead we had some cheerios and rice krispie treats in the tent, then we packed up and headed north.
The rain was oppressive. We got to the Duluth area and stopped at the tourism center, and took some shots from above the city, then went in search of things to do, to find some umbrellas. It was about 12:30 before we had driven around, taking in the soggy sights and finding a few things that looked like fun, when I finally found a Walgreens. My hunch proved correct in that as soon as I'd purchased the umbrellas, the rain stopped, and against all weather forecasts, stayed stopped the rest of the day.
We found a cute little park along the shore of superior, and barring the soaking wet benches, had a lovely little picnic lunch, in the car.
Our stomachs filled, but our sense of adventure, we went off in search of something to do. I had been prepared to drop a few dollars in the tourist trap that is Duluth, but we had voted to go to the Great Lakes Aquarium, and I found that it was rather pricey for what it was. I was silly in thinking that it would logically be worth the price. That isn't to say that it wasn't fun, but my decision to go was based first on seeing it was there, and the on reading about the many exhibits inside on a flyer in the entry. Sadly, much of the interactive exhibits were broken, and by all appearances, had been for some time. I would have expected a few things, but we're talking about a vast majority. Given the cost of entry, you would expect the maintainance to be a bit better. Overall, though, it wasn't a terrible experience, and we had fun looking at all the critters.
After the aquarium, we walked a few blocks to the Willliam A. Irvin(g?), an old, decommisioned Great Lakes freighter, which used to carry iron ore. This was a much cheaper attraction, and turned out to be more interesting, in many ways it was a guided tour, given by an old guy who used to actually work on a similar vessel in younger days, which meant he was full of interesting side stories and colorful tidbits. The only dissapointment came in finding that admission to this also got us onto the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, the Sundew, which closed about 45 minutes before our first tour ended. While a smaller ship, and shorter tour, it would have been fun to check it out as well.
By the time we got back to the car, it was almost 6:30, but there was still a little driving to do before leaving, and we out to Superior Point Park, across the lift bridge, and finally got a good look at the lake.
By the time we were heading back to the site, it was obvious that dinner would be pretty late, and when I presented the final night's dinner option, it was met with extreme contempt. Decided that going back and setting up to cook a meal that wouldn't be ready until nearly 8, and wouldn't be eaten by my younger daughter, who has little interest in eating to begin with, I caved in and agreed to eat out. However, we had to stop at some place that we couldn't eat at when back home.
We wound up at a little place in Cloquet called Family Traditions Restaurant. The name sounded pleasant enough, although the cover of the menu featured a photo of a woman that had to have been taken in the late 1800's, which would have meant that the woman in the image would have to have been born in the mid-1700's. The food turned out to be pretty decent and the service pleasant. One thing I love about taking trips is finding the little joints in the middle of nowhere with the best food around. For example, the best Hot Roast Beef Sandwhiches in the world can be had at a little restaurant in Ivanhoe, MN.
Anyway. We're now mostly packed and ready to go. We will try the pancake thing in the morning and head home. We'll likely take a more scenic route back than we did coming up, at least swinging through Hinkley to show the kids where Daddy used to visit their late Great-Great-Great-Aunt Bernice.
Goodnight world.
The morning started with an ambitous plan for pancakes on the camp stove, those plans were foiled by the nefarious rain of doom. Instead we had some cheerios and rice krispie treats in the tent, then we packed up and headed north.
The rain was oppressive. We got to the Duluth area and stopped at the tourism center, and took some shots from above the city, then went in search of things to do, to find some umbrellas. It was about 12:30 before we had driven around, taking in the soggy sights and finding a few things that looked like fun, when I finally found a Walgreens. My hunch proved correct in that as soon as I'd purchased the umbrellas, the rain stopped, and against all weather forecasts, stayed stopped the rest of the day.
We found a cute little park along the shore of superior, and barring the soaking wet benches, had a lovely little picnic lunch, in the car.
Our stomachs filled, but our sense of adventure, we went off in search of something to do. I had been prepared to drop a few dollars in the tourist trap that is Duluth, but we had voted to go to the Great Lakes Aquarium, and I found that it was rather pricey for what it was. I was silly in thinking that it would logically be worth the price. That isn't to say that it wasn't fun, but my decision to go was based first on seeing it was there, and the on reading about the many exhibits inside on a flyer in the entry. Sadly, much of the interactive exhibits were broken, and by all appearances, had been for some time. I would have expected a few things, but we're talking about a vast majority. Given the cost of entry, you would expect the maintainance to be a bit better. Overall, though, it wasn't a terrible experience, and we had fun looking at all the critters.
After the aquarium, we walked a few blocks to the Willliam A. Irvin(g?), an old, decommisioned Great Lakes freighter, which used to carry iron ore. This was a much cheaper attraction, and turned out to be more interesting, in many ways it was a guided tour, given by an old guy who used to actually work on a similar vessel in younger days, which meant he was full of interesting side stories and colorful tidbits. The only dissapointment came in finding that admission to this also got us onto the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, the Sundew, which closed about 45 minutes before our first tour ended. While a smaller ship, and shorter tour, it would have been fun to check it out as well.
By the time we got back to the car, it was almost 6:30, but there was still a little driving to do before leaving, and we out to Superior Point Park, across the lift bridge, and finally got a good look at the lake.
By the time we were heading back to the site, it was obvious that dinner would be pretty late, and when I presented the final night's dinner option, it was met with extreme contempt. Decided that going back and setting up to cook a meal that wouldn't be ready until nearly 8, and wouldn't be eaten by my younger daughter, who has little interest in eating to begin with, I caved in and agreed to eat out. However, we had to stop at some place that we couldn't eat at when back home.
We wound up at a little place in Cloquet called Family Traditions Restaurant. The name sounded pleasant enough, although the cover of the menu featured a photo of a woman that had to have been taken in the late 1800's, which would have meant that the woman in the image would have to have been born in the mid-1700's. The food turned out to be pretty decent and the service pleasant. One thing I love about taking trips is finding the little joints in the middle of nowhere with the best food around. For example, the best Hot Roast Beef Sandwhiches in the world can be had at a little restaurant in Ivanhoe, MN.
Anyway. We're now mostly packed and ready to go. We will try the pancake thing in the morning and head home. We'll likely take a more scenic route back than we did coming up, at least swinging through Hinkley to show the kids where Daddy used to visit their late Great-Great-Great-Aunt Bernice.
Goodnight world.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Camping Trip - Day 3
After watching the girls fish for a while, we rowed back in and went swimming. After swimming we hung out at the campsite for a little while before deciding that we wanted to wuss out on cooking and go to Subway, the only actual fast food I've found in the area.
The rest of the night will be spent relaxing and taking it easy.
Tomorrow we head to Duluth.
Day 2 - Addendum...
Day 2, yesterday, it was a full day. We woke up at about 6:30, cold. I decided we needed more blankets, and a trip to McDonald's for breakfast. We ran up to Cloquet to accomplish both. It's eerie being somewhere that doesn't have a McDonald's every three blocks.
We got back to camp and decided for a nice, morning swim. The water is clear, so you can see the little panfish and whatnot as try mistake your toes for food. After which we went north again toward Jay Cook State Park. On the way we stopped at a little truck stop called The Oasis Junction across 35 from an enormous Casino just outside of Carlton. It's a big, modern, eye-sore that makes no sense in its location. The food at the truck was decent, but nothing to write home about, although, to a degree I just did.
We spent a couple hours at Jay Cook, snapping photos and walking around. We saw the rapids on the St. Louis River, and crossed it on the Swinging Bridge.
After that, the girls hadn't had enough swimming yet, so we went again, and then I made dinner, we roasted marshmallows, showered (where there was a cool frog just hamgimg out) and hit the hay.
That's it. More details to come.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Camping Trip - Day 2
Day two on the trip has come to a close... And it's been VERY long. An update of the days events is forthcoming, but will have to wait until tomorrow... I'm going to bed.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Daddy Daughter Camping Trip 2008 - Day 1
The trip up was uneventful, and we made it in good time, arriving at the camp site around 12:30. We're staying at Moose Lake State Park, which is two hours north of the cities.
After having a quick lunch, I got the tent set up and we visited the Agate and Geological Interpretive Center, which was interesting. Then we went down to check out the swimming beach here, which is honestly a little a lackluster.
Then we went to check out the city of Moose Lake, there's a Fire Museum from a tragic fire in 1918, which is housed in an old train station on the former Soo Line. I tried to get to the Soo Line trail, but got stuck in the loose sand with my little car, luckily, a good Samaritan passing by was able to give me a hand getting out.
After the fire museum we had to get back to the site as it was raining and I'd left a few things out. After hanging out in the tent playing Go Fish, we made hot dogs, followed by s'mores. With the damp, and a severe lack of kindling, we had trouble keeping the fire going, but it worked out alright in the end.
We wrapped up the night with showers in the always exciting camp ground public showers.
Interesting side note: if you read and saw a post from last fall, when Melissa and I went to see the fall colors and wound driving north for hours. We stopped at a little café in called Art's Café... It turns out that was in the city of Moose Falls as I discovered driving past it today. Just an interesting happenstance.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog!
Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog is the most amazing thing on the internet right now, and it will be going away midnight Sunday, go watch it now. Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion and Felicia Day in a Super-Villian Musical by Joss Whedon! All those names are great!!! And it's GREAT!!! GO WATCH IT NOW, QUICKLY, GO!!!!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
My Deepest Apologies....
I have to apologize because I haven't had a lot of time of late to do post anything. There's been plenty to post about, but I've got a lot of things going on right now, and they've been taking up my time.
First, there's some personal things happening in my world that I don't really want to expand on. Also, I've finally gotten around to registering a domain and getting some hosting, so I've been building a new site, and you'll likely see some changes around here sooner or later as I migrate this blog to my new host. Obviously, I'll be posting more information as it becomes necessary.
I'm also planning the 'Daddy / Daughter Camping Trip 2008' where my daughters and I are heading out camping for a week. We leave Monday, July 21st, and come back Friday, July 25th. This means that I've been doing a lot of planning, and checking my gear and all those fun things that go along with a trip like this. I'll tell you more about the plans soon, I promise, and I will likely be able to do some blogging on the trip as well, so you can keep up with me in nature. (Camping now isn't like it was in the 40's, is it?)
Today, after much begging, and a little planning, I took my girls with Melissa and her Dad to go fishing on Linwood Lake in East Bethel, MN. It was a lot of fun. My youngest, Moira, came out the winner with the most fish, although Tristan wasn't too far behind her. Nothing was worth keeping, but it was still fun to reel them in. I have pictures that I will hopefully have time to post soon.
In the interim, I will just blindly post some things that I probably would have been blogging about. I'm sure it won't be as fun without the usual commentary, which I'm sure is the main reason you come here, but you should be alright.
thisissand.com
Exterminus
and finally,
There's plenty more, and I may take the time to expand on these when things settle, but for the time being it will have to do.
Until next time...
First, there's some personal things happening in my world that I don't really want to expand on. Also, I've finally gotten around to registering a domain and getting some hosting, so I've been building a new site, and you'll likely see some changes around here sooner or later as I migrate this blog to my new host. Obviously, I'll be posting more information as it becomes necessary.
I'm also planning the 'Daddy / Daughter Camping Trip 2008' where my daughters and I are heading out camping for a week. We leave Monday, July 21st, and come back Friday, July 25th. This means that I've been doing a lot of planning, and checking my gear and all those fun things that go along with a trip like this. I'll tell you more about the plans soon, I promise, and I will likely be able to do some blogging on the trip as well, so you can keep up with me in nature. (Camping now isn't like it was in the 40's, is it?)
Today, after much begging, and a little planning, I took my girls with Melissa and her Dad to go fishing on Linwood Lake in East Bethel, MN. It was a lot of fun. My youngest, Moira, came out the winner with the most fish, although Tristan wasn't too far behind her. Nothing was worth keeping, but it was still fun to reel them in. I have pictures that I will hopefully have time to post soon.
In the interim, I will just blindly post some things that I probably would have been blogging about. I'm sure it won't be as fun without the usual commentary, which I'm sure is the main reason you come here, but you should be alright.
thisissand.com
Exterminus
and finally,
There's plenty more, and I may take the time to expand on these when things settle, but for the time being it will have to do.
Until next time...
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
I have to laugh...
Sometimes you hear something that's so funny, it's hard not to chuckle. A recent soundbite on NPR had a Cuban American woman being asked about 2 candidates she had to choose between, for congress I believe.
Her response was: "I'm torn. Can I vote for both?"
The simple answer is a resounding: Yes! It's simple to vote for more than one candidate.
Just don't vote.
Her response was: "I'm torn. Can I vote for both?"
The simple answer is a resounding: Yes! It's simple to vote for more than one candidate.
Just don't vote.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Packard Bell Still Exists!?!
I recall, so many years ago, making fun of friends that had 'package hells'. I don't remember when it happened, exactly, but one day there was no more Packard Bell machines on the market. I thought they were just gone, faded into obscurity, as though plucked from the earth by a merciful god.
As it turns out, though, they're not only still around, but apparently thriving in Europe. They're even about to release a pretty amazing looking new gaming rig:
Clearly this isn't the 486/DX2 with 16MB of RAM Mike and I used to use to troll CompuServe chat rooms in the early 90's (incidentally, I'm equally amazed to find that they're still around too, if only a shadow of their former self).
Their press release can be found here, which is pretty wordy, so you could just read the summation here.
The only thing I don't understand is why the 'i' in iPower is italicized. If the name of your product requires modifying your font face mid-word, you're doing it wrong. I assume they're just trying to disassociate their brand from Apple's iProducts. Either way, the iPower 2.0 rig will feature Core 2 Quad and Core 2 Extreme options, and apparently water cooling.
Obviously we won't see these things in the U.S., but it is just amazing to read that Packard Bell was still alive and kicking. It's like finding out your dead uncle isn't actually dead, but has actually moved to Sweden and amassed a small fortune and now lives in a modest mansion with a reasonably attractive model of a wife.
As it turns out, though, they're not only still around, but apparently thriving in Europe. They're even about to release a pretty amazing looking new gaming rig:
Clearly this isn't the 486/DX2 with 16MB of RAM Mike and I used to use to troll CompuServe chat rooms in the early 90's (incidentally, I'm equally amazed to find that they're still around too, if only a shadow of their former self).
Their press release can be found here, which is pretty wordy, so you could just read the summation here.
The only thing I don't understand is why the 'i' in iPower is italicized. If the name of your product requires modifying your font face mid-word, you're doing it wrong. I assume they're just trying to disassociate their brand from Apple's iProducts. Either way, the iPower 2.0 rig will feature Core 2 Quad and Core 2 Extreme options, and apparently water cooling.
Obviously we won't see these things in the U.S., but it is just amazing to read that Packard Bell was still alive and kicking. It's like finding out your dead uncle isn't actually dead, but has actually moved to Sweden and amassed a small fortune and now lives in a modest mansion with a reasonably attractive model of a wife.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Picjuice.com - Another one?
Alright, I understand that coming up with a unique idea these days is tough. I accept that there's plenty of reason to offer people choices for everything they do. However, when it comes to picjuice.com, I have to wonder about the motivation.
Still, I gave it a try. It works well, it does exactly what it says it will do. It is quick, and works well. It has a clean and simple interface that looks good and is quite functional.
The main problem I have with this is that the internet has already seen its share of image editing applications. I'm not saying that this is a bad endeavor, but I have to wonder how someone with this kind of app writing capability could look at the plethora of web apps out there and think, "You know, the internet needs another image editing app! I know there are many out there, and this will be one more!"
I've said before that I'm a big fan of web applications. I love the concept of not having to install software, and I certainly appreciate the fact that you don't need to register to use this. At the same time, I can't imagine how anyone could do this and feel their bringing something new to the table.
I'm also getting tired of the constant use of the term 'beta'. I see the word beta so much now that I've completely forgotten what it is supposed to indicate. I know I'm not the only one suffering from this. I've been using Gmail for years now, and it's still considered beta. All a beta label is used for now is something for the developers to hide behind when something goes wrong. When I see beta on a such a basic application as this, and I think about the fact that the cute little Web 2.0 star logo will likely be there as long as this site exists, I'm forced to just shake my head and laugh to myself.
Perhaps I'm wrong about this, maybe this is just one of those exercises in "because I could" mentality. It runs on the Google App Engine, and without having any information on the page, we could just assume that this beta is simply a test of what the app engine can do. Still, I can't really think of a reason to use this instead of the tons of other options one has.
Of course, if you've ever trolled around sourceforge.net, you've likely seen the plethora of similar projects you can get for free there as well. It's not a new thing to release software that does the same thing as other software, and I suppose that as it becomes easier and easier to create robust web apps, we'll just keep seeing more of the same.
Of course, it's not like I have the only blog on the block, either.
Still, I gave it a try. It works well, it does exactly what it says it will do. It is quick, and works well. It has a clean and simple interface that looks good and is quite functional.
The main problem I have with this is that the internet has already seen its share of image editing applications. I'm not saying that this is a bad endeavor, but I have to wonder how someone with this kind of app writing capability could look at the plethora of web apps out there and think, "You know, the internet needs another image editing app! I know there are many out there, and this will be one more!"
I've said before that I'm a big fan of web applications. I love the concept of not having to install software, and I certainly appreciate the fact that you don't need to register to use this. At the same time, I can't imagine how anyone could do this and feel their bringing something new to the table.
I'm also getting tired of the constant use of the term 'beta'. I see the word beta so much now that I've completely forgotten what it is supposed to indicate. I know I'm not the only one suffering from this. I've been using Gmail for years now, and it's still considered beta. All a beta label is used for now is something for the developers to hide behind when something goes wrong. When I see beta on a such a basic application as this, and I think about the fact that the cute little Web 2.0 star logo will likely be there as long as this site exists, I'm forced to just shake my head and laugh to myself. Perhaps I'm wrong about this, maybe this is just one of those exercises in "because I could" mentality. It runs on the Google App Engine, and without having any information on the page, we could just assume that this beta is simply a test of what the app engine can do. Still, I can't really think of a reason to use this instead of the tons of other options one has.
Of course, if you've ever trolled around sourceforge.net, you've likely seen the plethora of similar projects you can get for free there as well. It's not a new thing to release software that does the same thing as other software, and I suppose that as it becomes easier and easier to create robust web apps, we'll just keep seeing more of the same.
Of course, it's not like I have the only blog on the block, either.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Toilet Paper: Over-hang or Under-hang
I've had this argument for years with various people. Which direction should one put the toilet paper. I've always been a firm believer of the over-hang method for so many reasons. Generally, I think that the people that don't do this are just a victim of laziness, because if you think it through, it only makes sense.
Thankfully, Current Configuration, someplace I'd never heard of before stumbling over it in one of my many feeds, has actually taken the time to explain things, with graphics. I'm not sure what spawned bringing this post up from the depths of the internet (it was posted on 2005), but I for one, am glad!
It's pretty brilliantly written. Hopefully now we'll see the word spread.
Also, that first graphic? It's gotta go to cafepress.com. I want that t-shirt! Hell, I'd take most of the accompanying graphics from this post and wear them.
Thankfully, Current Configuration, someplace I'd never heard of before stumbling over it in one of my many feeds, has actually taken the time to explain things, with graphics. I'm not sure what spawned bringing this post up from the depths of the internet (it was posted on 2005), but I for one, am glad!
It's pretty brilliantly written. Hopefully now we'll see the word spread.
Also, that first graphic? It's gotta go to cafepress.com. I want that t-shirt! Hell, I'd take most of the accompanying graphics from this post and wear them.
SimplyNoise.com
There are plenty of sites that I visit where, upon arrival, all I can do is marvel at the reasoning behind putting up the site in the first place. Especially when you factor in the expense of hosting and traffic, since most of the time I've found out after it's been hit by Digg or Slashdot traffic. Then you consider the cost and time of development, and in many cases, marketing and advertising.
Then I arrive at a site like SimplyNoise.com and all I can think is, "Why?" I just don't see it's purpose, apart from just giving people noise.
Now, if you open up the source and look near the bottom, there's AdSense code, but it doesn't seem to actually appear on the site. I'm not sure if they've hidden the ads to trying and make money on the impressions, or what, but even that doesn't really make sense to me.
Perhaps I'm just being cynical, perhaps I'm just always looking for the angle. Perhaps it's just a great little site that wants to provide white noise for the masses.
Of course, I don't need the internet to make white noise for me... I run a fan all night.
Then I arrive at a site like SimplyNoise.com and all I can think is, "Why?" I just don't see it's purpose, apart from just giving people noise.
Now, if you open up the source and look near the bottom, there's AdSense code, but it doesn't seem to actually appear on the site. I'm not sure if they've hidden the ads to trying and make money on the impressions, or what, but even that doesn't really make sense to me.
Perhaps I'm just being cynical, perhaps I'm just always looking for the angle. Perhaps it's just a great little site that wants to provide white noise for the masses.
Of course, I don't need the internet to make white noise for me... I run a fan all night.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Push Button Receive Bacon
I can't exactly recall when I took this picture, but I think it was at a Target Store.
This is one of those little things I see that always makes me chuckle.
Perhaps one day bacon will actually come out of one of these things, and then I might not find it so funny anymore...
Or perhaps I'll find it funnier still.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Hancock
Hancock was a blast.I know that's not the strongest opening sentence, nor does it leave much to determine my overall opinion, which is usually reserved more for the end of a review, but I really want to be upfront. I've seen a lot of mixed reviews for Hancock, and there's been more than a few low brow jokes about the title, but I think this is a movie that really deserves a chance.
My thoughts on this movie are pretty simple. This isn't your average superhero movie, it's not your basic, run-of-the-mill, action flick. This movie doesn't push the limits, it isn't wall to wall laughs, nor does it have non-stop action. It's never gets too funny, it never goes too deep, and it never pushes too far.
What this movie does have is a smart story. The idea that a superhero is automatically really good at being a superhero is something that's fun to be challenged. Of course, it's not a completely new concept, but it's something that we've not seen tackled in a movie in a while. The idea of a superhero who spends his life as bumbling, drunken, homeless guy, who cares enough to save the day, but seems completely unconcerned with collateral damage, unconcerned with his image, is really fun to watch.
This movie also has a strong cast of actors that pull of their roles very well. Will Smith is brilliant as always, his delivery is the solid, even if we're not seeing anything new from him. The supporting cast, Charlize Theron and Jason Bateman, even Jae Head, the son of Bateman and Theron in the film, all pull off their roles well.
All said and done this movie has a lot going for it. It isn't Iron Man, it isn't Wanted, but it has laughs, it has action, it has great effects, and even has several touching moments. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Let's Go Jungle
This game stands out because of it's full force silliness. It's a rail-shooter, but you're given weapons ranging from guns to boat oars. Best of all, though is that it is a two-player game that focuses heavily on the romantic compatibility of the dating couple that are our heroes. The premise of them sharing a safari vacation that results in fight huge spiders and enormous frogs is hilarious, and the terrible Japanese translation adds to the fun.
We all agreed that we couldn't wait for this game to show up on the Wii.
(posted from my phone, I'll try and add links later)
Thursday, July 3, 2008
X O - Tic Tac Toe
Yesterday, I wrote about a brilliantly designed chess board, today I'll be talking about a brilliantly designed tic-tac-toe board. I present XO:
It is designed by Shahar Peleg of Peleg Design. It is the sort of simple elegance that makes you wonder why you didn't think of it.
While I can't think of what, I know that I've seen other mirror designs like this, but this is the first game board like this.
Of course, the problem is that even if I had one of these, I probably still wouldn't play. Although, with the Chromatic Break, the story might be different:
Specially designed cups and a specially designed play mat means you can have a strategic coffee break. Perhaps it's even less practical than the mirrored surface of XO, but it is certainly more unique.
It is designed by Shahar Peleg of Peleg Design. It is the sort of simple elegance that makes you wonder why you didn't think of it.
While I can't think of what, I know that I've seen other mirror designs like this, but this is the first game board like this.
Of course, the problem is that even if I had one of these, I probably still wouldn't play. Although, with the Chromatic Break, the story might be different:
Specially designed cups and a specially designed play mat means you can have a strategic coffee break. Perhaps it's even less practical than the mirrored surface of XO, but it is certainly more unique.
Nike Hyperdunks: Why?
Nike Hyperdunks?
I grew up with Back to the Future, and of course Back to the Future II (although I've still only seen that piece of garbage they called Back to the Future III once). It's one of the most iconic franchises of my generation.
Now, with that said, I have to admit how cool it was the first time I saw Marty McFly put on his futuristic sneakers:
But personally, it was less amazing to me than the idea of a hover board:
Now, Nike has released a small number of new McFly Hyperdunks, modeled after the shoes featured in Back to the Future II. The small number we're talking about is 350, which is a very small number in way of Nike shoes. I am personally aware of two people who are avid Nike collectors, one of which I'm sure will find a way to own a pair of these. I have to admit that I think both them are insane.
Even with the insight that I have into shoe collecting, I still have a hard time understanding the fact that these are going for $600-$2000. I understand that they are limited edition, I even understand, to some degree, the collectible nature of these things. I do not, however, understand what could really make them worth that much money.
The laces aren't even automatic.
It's clear that there are people out there that have wanted these things or a while now. However, I really don't understand all the fanfare.
I'm sure that I sound hypocritical, I've certainly spent large amounts of money on other collectible items. But none of those were shoes, shoes I would never wear. There are of course toys I'll never play with, but still, they aren't shoes, and they look infinitely more interesting sitting on a shelf than a shoe ever could.
Even when it comes to seeing the Wii and PS3 going for thousands of dollars on eBay, I understand. I wouldn't pay that much myself, but I can understand it. But paying this much for shoes just baffles me.
Now, maybe if they were the original Reebok pumps we might be talking...
I grew up with Back to the Future, and of course Back to the Future II (although I've still only seen that piece of garbage they called Back to the Future III once). It's one of the most iconic franchises of my generation.
Now, with that said, I have to admit how cool it was the first time I saw Marty McFly put on his futuristic sneakers:
But personally, it was less amazing to me than the idea of a hover board:
Now, Nike has released a small number of new McFly Hyperdunks, modeled after the shoes featured in Back to the Future II. The small number we're talking about is 350, which is a very small number in way of Nike shoes. I am personally aware of two people who are avid Nike collectors, one of which I'm sure will find a way to own a pair of these. I have to admit that I think both them are insane.
Even with the insight that I have into shoe collecting, I still have a hard time understanding the fact that these are going for $600-$2000. I understand that they are limited edition, I even understand, to some degree, the collectible nature of these things. I do not, however, understand what could really make them worth that much money.
The laces aren't even automatic.
It's clear that there are people out there that have wanted these things or a while now. However, I really don't understand all the fanfare.
I'm sure that I sound hypocritical, I've certainly spent large amounts of money on other collectible items. But none of those were shoes, shoes I would never wear. There are of course toys I'll never play with, but still, they aren't shoes, and they look infinitely more interesting sitting on a shelf than a shoe ever could.
Even when it comes to seeing the Wii and PS3 going for thousands of dollars on eBay, I understand. I wouldn't pay that much myself, but I can understand it. But paying this much for shoes just baffles me.
Now, maybe if they were the original Reebok pumps we might be talking...
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Of design and chess
I have seen, in my many years on this planet, a great many chess board designs. Some are silly, some are fun, some are downright stupid. Others are elegant, and still others are just plain beautiful.
None of them has the stunning qualities of this design from Yasmin Sethi. It's a fantastic concept that seems well implemented and, best of all, the wow factor has a purpose.
I'll quote the site:
A Chess Set inspired by the novel 'Alice through the Looking Glass' where the pieces magically turn transparent when they touch the board.
In ‘Alice through the Looking Glass’ by Lewis Carroll, Alice falls through a mirror and on the other side of the mirror, she becomes a piece in a game of chess. Inspired by this, the chess pieces have an opaque mirror finish, when they touch the surface of the board they magically turn transparent and reveal the identity of the piece contained inside them. When removed from the board they revert to being opaque, hiding the identity of the piece.
This is a comment on how a chess piece has no value unless it is in play on the board. If removed from the board, a pawn and a queen are equal, in that neither have any value.
Chess Sets are one of the many things I wish I had the money (and space) to collect, and this would definitely be on my want list. Actually, it is on my want list anyway...
Dear Blizzard
Dear Blizzard,
How are you? I'm good. I know it's been a while, you've been pretty busy with your World of Warcraft career. Try as I might, I just can't do the MMORPG thing, money not withstanding, I just can't fit it into my schedule, and personally I think it speaks to my growth as a person to admit that my addictive personality couldn't handle it. I'm sure you understand, even if we've never really talked about it.
I've still been there for you though. When you announced Starcraft 2, I was right there with everyone else, cheering. Even if it has been over a year now, I still wait anxiously. You know I didn't play Starcraft as much as I did Warcraft 2, but it was still a welcomed change. I know you don't hold it against me that I started spending so much time with Interplay and the Descent series, and Fallout. We both know how many hours I logged in Warcraft and then Warcraft 2, and we know how much Diablo I played, and even when I finally became disenfranchised with Diablo 2, I was still able to make someone happy when I sold my account on eBay.
So, I've heard about Diablo 3. I'm really thrilled, it should be a big deal, and I know you'll certainly make it huge, as you always do. There is, however, a small tinge of hesitation on my part. I'm not as upset as some people about the graphics, although I see their point about it having a real Warcraft / WoW look. Personally, though, I think the look really speaks to the my real point, because it looks so much like your other franchises look now.
My real problem? It was said best by a good friend of mine, you're becoming the Nintendo of PC gaming. Certainly, that isn't a terrible thing, per se. You've got three solid franchises, and to some degree or another, I've really enjoyed them, but maybe it's time to expand your horizons.
I noticed something when I was browsing your site today, and when I did, it hit me, full in the face. I've got the perfect idea!
I realized that you have Warcraft, you've got Starcraft, and you've got Diablo. It's time for you to invest in a new franchise, and if you play your cards right, you'll have the perfect campaign that will incorporate your existing campaigns.
You need a first person shooter, and it has to start with the letter 'A'.
I know this seems simple, but it's perfect, you'll then have four franchises starting with the same letters that you use to play a good FPS on a PC: WASD. I can see the flash video playing, the titles of your current franchises appear and then all the but first letters disappear, leaving 'W S D'. Then, with a fanfare, the new title appears, the letter 'A' burns brightly, and the remaining letters fall into place, becoming a keyboard, eager fingers press the keys quickly, and we see gameplay footage of the new, ultra-amazing FPS by Blizzard.
Actually, since I know almost nothing about marketing, I'm sure you'll come up with something better, but I still think I have a valid idea. I strongly urge you to consider it.
I also strongly encourage you release something for Christ's sake.
I still think you're wonderful. These are merely suggestions, and I hope it won't ruin our relationship, which I know has been tenuous at best for a while now. I really hope I hear back from you soon, perhaps we could even get together again soon, just like old times.
Sincerely,
Stephen
How are you? I'm good. I know it's been a while, you've been pretty busy with your World of Warcraft career. Try as I might, I just can't do the MMORPG thing, money not withstanding, I just can't fit it into my schedule, and personally I think it speaks to my growth as a person to admit that my addictive personality couldn't handle it. I'm sure you understand, even if we've never really talked about it.
I've still been there for you though. When you announced Starcraft 2, I was right there with everyone else, cheering. Even if it has been over a year now, I still wait anxiously. You know I didn't play Starcraft as much as I did Warcraft 2, but it was still a welcomed change. I know you don't hold it against me that I started spending so much time with Interplay and the Descent series, and Fallout. We both know how many hours I logged in Warcraft and then Warcraft 2, and we know how much Diablo I played, and even when I finally became disenfranchised with Diablo 2, I was still able to make someone happy when I sold my account on eBay.
So, I've heard about Diablo 3. I'm really thrilled, it should be a big deal, and I know you'll certainly make it huge, as you always do. There is, however, a small tinge of hesitation on my part. I'm not as upset as some people about the graphics, although I see their point about it having a real Warcraft / WoW look. Personally, though, I think the look really speaks to the my real point, because it looks so much like your other franchises look now.
My real problem? It was said best by a good friend of mine, you're becoming the Nintendo of PC gaming. Certainly, that isn't a terrible thing, per se. You've got three solid franchises, and to some degree or another, I've really enjoyed them, but maybe it's time to expand your horizons.
I noticed something when I was browsing your site today, and when I did, it hit me, full in the face. I've got the perfect idea!
I realized that you have Warcraft, you've got Starcraft, and you've got Diablo. It's time for you to invest in a new franchise, and if you play your cards right, you'll have the perfect campaign that will incorporate your existing campaigns.
You need a first person shooter, and it has to start with the letter 'A'.
I know this seems simple, but it's perfect, you'll then have four franchises starting with the same letters that you use to play a good FPS on a PC: WASD. I can see the flash video playing, the titles of your current franchises appear and then all the but first letters disappear, leaving 'W S D'. Then, with a fanfare, the new title appears, the letter 'A' burns brightly, and the remaining letters fall into place, becoming a keyboard, eager fingers press the keys quickly, and we see gameplay footage of the new, ultra-amazing FPS by Blizzard.
Actually, since I know almost nothing about marketing, I'm sure you'll come up with something better, but I still think I have a valid idea. I strongly urge you to consider it.
I also strongly encourage you release something for Christ's sake.
I still think you're wonderful. These are merely suggestions, and I hope it won't ruin our relationship, which I know has been tenuous at best for a while now. I really hope I hear back from you soon, perhaps we could even get together again soon, just like old times.
Sincerely,
Stephen
Milestone?
77,777 miles. Five years with nearly zero problems and still around 35 miles to the gallon.
I'm not going to complain.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
PlasTrolTech Inc.
Welcome Google users!
There is no website for PlasTrolTech Inc. I have, in the last few days, considered just registering the domain just to see how many people would show up. It's been interesting enough watching how many people have watched "The Website is Down" and googled the name and wound up looking at my "review".
I imagine that we're only talking about a percentage of people who watch the video actually checking out Google to see if the web site in the video is real. I know that I didn't when I watched, which is why I didn't know it would yield no results.
Who says the internet is only for pr0n? For me, anyway, it's also for interweb people watching.
There is no website for PlasTrolTech Inc. I have, in the last few days, considered just registering the domain just to see how many people would show up. It's been interesting enough watching how many people have watched "The Website is Down" and googled the name and wound up looking at my "review".
I imagine that we're only talking about a percentage of people who watch the video actually checking out Google to see if the web site in the video is real. I know that I didn't when I watched, which is why I didn't know it would yield no results.
Who says the internet is only for pr0n? For me, anyway, it's also for interweb people watching.
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