Phil's Slice

Scanning

2012-01-27T05:06:00.001-08:00

In my previous job, I did a lot of computer troubleshooting and cleanup. It was tedious work, and the ultimate out was that we would simply back up user data and re-image the system. Often that was a lot less time consuming and cleaner the answer than trying to simply patch and make the system work. Many times we would run in to systems that were old, needing replacement, and we had the ability to request a replacement. It was a relatively easy process compared to others we had to deal with. User happy, job done, move on.

Those were the easy answers for work based systems.... however with my home system, re-imaging is a VERY much last resort and simply ordering a new system isn't feasible right now. So I am up to my own wits to keep the system bug free and working nicely.

For the first time, as it turns out, in a year I ran some of my favorite scanning software on my system. Here is a run down of what I like:

Sybot SD

Ad-Aware

MalWare Bytes

Microsoft Defender (always running, and monthly quick scans)

And if you feel you are tech enough, Ultimate Boot CD for Windows.

In any event, these things help me feel better about my system at home... though I don't use it nearly as much as I used to, so it is off quiet a bit.

I highly recommend all of these to help tame problems with your own Windows system. Now if you use a Mac, don't thing you are any safer folks. Security by obscurity is only a false sense of security.

And if you want to sponser this blog for a small fee, I am listening!

Things I think:

- I think Stephen Colbert rocks and or rolls.

- I think just when you thought North Korea couldn't get any crazier, they do.

- I think I am going to cry the first time my daughter asks for some sort of on-line account for herself.

- I think I am super excited to go to Fogo this week...

Free, free, free

2012-01-26T05:02:00.000-08:00

Yup- thats right- free, free, free.

I am not a coffee junkie, never had a cup of joe. I prefer tea. However, I do go to Starbucks. How? Well, for their Chai of course.

The wife and I also primarily use one credit card which allows rewards. One of which is Starbucks gift cards, so free there. (we pay the card off every month)

Now for the second layer of free- I stopped at a Starbucks this weekend to get some drinks. The lady working asked if I had coffee brewed at home, I said yes and she handed me a free sample of some coffee. Free!

Then when I paid, she handed me the receipt saying there was a survey to take, and it turned out to be a free drink reward! Free #3!

I almost got free #4 on that same stop, but the hot chocolate samples were cold.... well, it was almost a perfect 4 for 4. But I will take free, free, free just about any day.

Things I think:

- I think that I was frustrated when I would get lost playing Bard's Tale, but this story takes it to a new level.

- I think this might be a good idea for Google Maps. Maybe.

- I think it is difficult to drive when someone has extremely BRIGHT headlights behind you. Dude!

- I think the Ravens loss of Pagano is huge... and extremely unexpected. He should have been around another year before he got elevated to a head coach. Good luck dude, and lets hope the next d-coordinator for the Ravens continues the swagger.

- I think oh no... first it was the discovery of the Yellowstone caldera, now this.

- I think U2 might consider getting together to start recording at the end of 2012... rumors will kick around, but they won't really start until 2013, and if we are lucky they will have something new in 2014. Thats my best guess at their current album timeline. I doubt any of the three rumored albums will ever see the light of day.

School'n

2012-01-25T05:05:00.001-08:00

So daughter #1 is attending a new program... school to her. Two days a week for a couple hours. A chance to get out, learn new things, interact with other kids, catch new colds, etc. Should be great for her.

Annoying point of the day regarding her new program- there is a fixed price on the program. It is a very good price. No problem with that. It is that there are "additional fees" tacked on top that were not spelled out until we joined. We have an option to either pay an additional $25, or sell $150 worth of Joe Corbi products.

Really? Seriously?

Two points on that:

#1 Why not just add the $25 and be done with it?

#2 For every $150 worth of product you get $25? Is that worth the hassle?! Ugh.

I believe this is a trend I will see for the next 20 some years. I recall seeing this sort of thing at the college I worked for. There was tuition, then there were services, fees, additional costs all tacked on top which were to support certain aspects of the school. I sort of understand, but it is utterly frustrating to think there is one price you are paying then realize you need another lump sum tacked on.

Welcome to "education" buddy. Pricey, ain't it?

Things I think:

- I think there needs to be some sort of educational offering for parents of different interest levels. Say classes to be effective parents based on styles or interest, etc.

- I think this is a great site, one day I might be able to use it for more than just a link. Maybe information to travel to National Parks with the family!

- I think XKCD just nails it.

- I think I just LOVE Wegman's meatballs. There, I said it.

- I think Sir Arthur Conan Doyle should have let Sherlock die... it was fitting, and right... but he bowed to public pressure to bring him back- a shame.

- I think the actor who played Jim Moriarty was perfect.

- I think the new series Alcatraz feels like a darker Fringe, in terms of human capital.

- I think The Office jumped the shark with Robert California. Sorry, but the show should have ended when Michael Scott left.

Toys

2012-01-24T04:50:00.001-08:00

We had some friends over for brunch this past week... they had two girls, about 8. One was pretty girly, the other very much not girly.... So it was interesting to see what possible toys I would be looking at playing with in about 6 yeas from now.

There was hope that Legos and building stuff would very much be interesting to them. Though from the current path of my daughters, we are likely be surrounded by baby dolls and crafty pink stuff. Not saying it is bad, but how it will be. I think we need to find more games in the upcoming years to play "like a family." (as daughter #1 says all the time)

Hopefully I can buy some more legos at yard sales and keep them in a large bin so we can offer them up when they want to play. Legos ain't cheap... I'll tell you that. So used ones will be welcome at a large discount.

In the mean time, toys are diverse... though the one big theme is food. Both wife and I love to cook and eat good food. So the girls are very much in tow with that theme. I think both of them before the age of 3 will have had more diverse food choices than I did by the time I was 18. Thats how life goes! The best part is, they are willing to try most of what we offer them. Who knows what happens in 5 years, but for now- we got little foodies.

Things I think:

- I think it is always amazing when daughter #1 wakes up early, and manages to go back to sleep.

- I think falling asleep while watching a TV show is somewhat amusing as I get older.

- I think all this smart phone progressions/updates is somehow following how desktop/laptop updates occur. I am wondering if we will ever go back to non-connected versions.

- I think 4K isn't what it used to be.

- I think this image is a model... not from Switzerland.

- I think hidden mothers in old photos is creepy and interesting at the same time.

- I think my Spam folder is unusably full, wonder whats being launched recently... maybe a crack down on some bot-nets is needed so I don't have as much. Danke.

- I think I am getting rather excited for a trip to Fogo this weekend. Woot! Here come the meat sweats!

- I think one of these days I need to update my Philmont webpage. It still gets regular traffic, but I haven't touched it in ages.

- I think I need to see The Hobbit in IMAX 48 fps if I want to REALLY enjoy it.

A case of the Mondays

2012-01-23T04:45:00.001-08:00

I just spent a little bit of time cleaning out my "most visited" sites to remove all the sports based ones.

In about 30 minutes a bunch of co-workers will likely start to chat me up about the game... I think I will give my line of "the NFL is dead to me." Will make them laugh, and get me out of talking about it anymore.

I have various books on tapes, and other subject matter to keep me distracted for the next few weeks.

Time to re-double some efforts at work...

Gotta get the backdrop out and take some new photos of my girls, missing out on some recent new photos to share out.

Now, if I can just get through a couple days without having to process, think, or talk about the football thing- I might be able to regain my sanity in terms of sports. Until such time, I am going to have an epic case of the Mondays.

Things I think:

- I think I am very disappointed in the selected tracks for U22. Funny thing is, I dropped from the U2 fanclub a few years ago and haven't cared since. If they go back to arenas next tour, I will rejoin for tickets, but thats the only reason.

- I think seaweed is indeed the 'next big thing' in terms of biomass.

- I think I still would like to build my own ring flash for photography, but just haven't found the winner design yet.

- I think, still, we might get one decent snow storm of 6+ inches this winter. When, I have no clue... but likely it will be only one for this winter.

- I think the BBC series of Sherlock is a-frick'n amazing.

- I think if you are going put out a social coupon for services, you should at least be one of the ten results if someone searches for your services/website which is easily identified.

- I think being human means things are relative.

The NFL is dead to me: A Ravens recap

2012-01-22T18:43:00.000-08:00

This is my last comments about the Ravens for a good long time...

I will likely be back and ready for the NFL come draft time. I know that this summer will be a little more painful because of this loss, and the loss of being able to head to training camp during the summer. It is a double whammy that still really hurts.

Just a few bullet points about the game:

The Pats defense wasn't as good as it was for those first three series, no chance.
Brandon Spikes- you, sir, are a dirty player. I do not like you.
I do not like the Ravens offensive line for the 2012 season. They were exploited too many times. Loved Yanda and Grubbs... Birk is likely gone... Oher is overmatched half the time... McKinney- not sure if he has another season in the tank.
Joe Flacco, I had my doubts about you this season... but I believe the true greatness of your career has yet to come.
What amazing feats of interception by Webb and Jimmy Smith. The secondary for the Ravens looks amazing for the next couple years.
Suggs was completely blown over by Gronkowski one play... I mean LEVELED...
Loved the steadiness of the Defense, no fretting, no confusion- just plays.
Ngata, what happened? You got really quiet the last few games.
Cam, I am very happy you adjusted and showed some guts in the plays... however, I wouldn't be surprised if you weren't around next season.

Lastly, Billy Cundiff- you are going to be the butt of so many jokes in the next few months/years... Sorry dude.

Thats my last Ravens reference for a very long time. I will not be able to even listen to sports talk, or the news, or any social type media for the next week at least. It was crushing... not as utterly as the Pittsburgh loss last year, but WAY up there.

Bathtime bubbles

2012-01-20T05:35:00.001-08:00

One of the gifts recently received by the girls was a package for bath time bubbles. And daughter #1 LOVES to blow bubbles, even if it is freezing outside, she would ask to go outside and blow bubbles... so the very thought of indoor bubbles is an amazing thought/idea/concept.

The key to this process is that is super excited about getting a bath. To the point of distraction... she doesn't care if her hair is getting cleaned or that she is hanging out. I just wish her distraction would carry over to drying her hair. That is something I would rather have her distracted on... the bath part is easy compared to that. (assuming, of course, that she isn't super tired) The downside of this bath time bubble set, it doesn't work too well... at least the floaty foam bubble maker parts. It was very hard for either of us to make the bubbles... there was an insert in the bottle of bubble-goo that did a good job, but you need the bottle to dunk it. Not the point of the system...

So the moral of the story is- distractions during night time routines can be a good thing- even if they are indoor bubbles.

Things I think:

- I think that is one HECK of a mirror being made. The process is amazing.

- I think I haven't paid one bit of attention to any of the primaries for any reason other than when I hit up a news site to find something else.

- I think if I had to learn a new language, my commute would allow me to do a "Rosetta stone" learning... an hour a day? Could be a good thing.... too bad I am not traveling any time soon.

- I think the number of jerseys at work is pretty darn cool... though I wonder where half of them were earlier in the year.

- I think I might be just hanging at home with the girls for the game on Sunday.

- I think I entirely agree that the Ravens play to the level of their opponent this year. Which is another reason I believe the Ravens should pull this out and go the Super Bowl. (which is a super silly name if you think about it)

- I think the score for Sunday will be: Ravens 33, Pats 30. Being a complete homer, but the Ravens have a better than punchers chance at winning.

1am wake up call

2012-01-19T04:58:00.001-08:00

So daughter #1 woke up at 1am crying and ~~talking~~ sobbing. We waited for a little bit to see if she would calm down and go back to sleep- no dice.

Turns out, after I went in to her room, that her babu (what she calls her pacifier) was on the floor and couldn't get herself settled. From what she was saying, she had a bad dream She also said, and this is not the first time I have heard her say it, that the "Silly Gilly Gumball" can't get her. I know about the silly gilly gumball, and it is from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. (A show she really doesn't watch anymore.) It is a phrase used by Goofey several times... but is meant to be silly, not invoke any horrors or scare kids. So why she uses that phrase, I am not entirely sure but suspect it is the best method for her to relate how she is feeling.

From previous experiences of waking up in the middle of the night, I knew it would take her a VERY long time to go back to sleep... I think last night's timing clocked in at over an hour and a half. Mostly rolling around getting her finger in my face, getting in my wife's eye at one point... and several conversations with her on how she would go back to her bed if she did not work on sleeping. No fun, not at all.

And yes, I woke up at my normal time... and yes, I am made it to work with little worry/trouble. Lets see how I am functioning around dinner tonight.

Things I think:

- I think this is a great list of first time photographer points. And to point at #10, just hitting hi-speed on your camera and letting it rip through 10,000 photos doesn't count.

- I think the information reveled in this contract for U2 and Live Nation is telling. Yozzers.

- I think my friends out in the Northwest are dealing with a bucket load of snow- be safe folks.

- I think weather around these parts is screwy, and I am surprised I haven't heard of more people being sick.

- I think I have been checking boston.com too much to see about the Patriots. Interesting that they have not mentioned anything about all of the Pats wins against teams with 500 or worse records, and all their loses against teams with winning records. Huh. Funny how that happens.

- I think this "phishing your employees" kit would be a hoot at my old job. Then again, I don't work there anymore.

Quick

2012-01-18T04:35:00.001-08:00

Gotta run for the day.. so a super short posting this morning.

Things I think:

- I think while Ed Reed is right, he provided the sports talking heads enough content for the rest of the week.

- I think there is nothing cuter than daughter #1 trying to help daughter #2 to walk.

- I think this Sunday at 3pm, Baltimore will come to a near complete hault.

- I think I forgot to bring in my case of Coke with me this morning.

- I think anyone who puts out recycling without a lid durning a windy night should be forced to pick up every last piece of it that has blown all over the neighborhood. Grrrrrr...

- I think I am not looking forward to doing taxes this year, no clue why, and there is no basis for it.

Smells

2012-01-17T04:38:00.001-08:00

When I was growing up, I would walk in to certain bathrooms and could tell it was associated with certain people. I didn't know what the smell was... it wasn't baby powder. It wasn't medication, or certain rubs... I had no idea what it was.

Well, daughter #2 has some really sensitive skin. We have had to adjust bath-time, get some stuff for her skin, etc. The thing is, the soap we are using is Dove. And as it turns out, it is exactly the smell I knew from my youth.

I had no idea that was what I was smelling growing up... I just associated it with certain people because no one else used it.

Now I know better.... not sure if it is for the better, but just smidgen of information and association in my brain.

Things I think:

- I think the term "things will get worse worse before they get better" is a no lose term.

- I think it is amazing the Ravens never got penalized Sunday.

- I think Suggs/Ngata needs to step up their game this weekend, (aka get some serious pressure) or Brady will have his way with the pass coverage.

- I think I was 'close' to the final score I posted on Friday- 27-15. (real score, 20-13) Most important part, Ravens win. Now they are underdogs by 7.5 points.

- I think the iPod Nano is pretty fancy for the size, then again I wish it wasn't so darn small. I feel like I am going to loose it!

- I think the further digitization of the world is going to take a leap forward if this is true.

- I think new Sherlock is back, how did I miss it?!

Ravens Playoff game

2012-01-16T10:44:00.000-08:00

Yup, I got to go to the Ravens playoff game yesterday. Sec 532. F'ing freezing. We were in the shade. Slight breeze... it did not matter. Had three layers on my legs and six on my upper body... two pairs of gloves... fleece hat with hoodie over it.
Did not matter, I was at the first playoff game in Baltimore since 2006, and our first WIN at home in the playoffs since, ummm 2002? Its been forever.

The crowd was super fired up... Got to my section in plenty of time... had a nice little lunch in the warm sun.

The lines to get in to the stadium were insanely long. They were using metal detectors in 32 degree temps. Folks were using huge puffy coats, lots of layers, etc. Of course it would take forever.
Then there were the lines to the bathrooms, holy crow.

On the game: It felt mostly like 2000-01. Offense did enough to get the win, the Defense did everything else.

I will say this- the Texans are going to be a VERY good team for the next couple years. Wow, they are good.

Now for a bit of video, the introductions for the Pro-Bowl players.

Off to rest and relax on this super nice MLK day.

TGIF- things I think edition

2012-01-13T04:57:00.001-08:00

Things I think:

- I think it is sort of surprising that one cannot order Subway subs on-line.

- I think we got our replacement 1st generation iPod Nano yesterday. The entire box contained the player and a piece of paper- no accessories. I suspect refurbished.

- I think there is a lot of purple lights in Baltimore. Though at work it is not purple fridays, rather jersey Fridays... we got a lot of other fans mixed in.

- I think this list of "Loudest NFL Stadiums" is a bunch of crap. Really? It seams every stadium believes it is the loudest, other than Cinci.

- I think Canon should work on a 4/3rds format (or a mirrorless system) more instead of this.

- I think while money does not buy elections directly, it sure does give people a "popular opinion" poll of the candidates.

- I think I need to follow this site for pre-schooler APPs, etc. (direct to the blog)

- I think daughter #2 is ready to start the walking process... look out.

- I think The Hobbit trailer also creeps me out due to the Gandalf / Galadriel interaction... *willies*

- I think I need to be in my seat by 12:42 this Sunday... just not sure why. Ravens reported to do so- still wondering why.

- I think I saw a poll that most NFL fans believe the Texans have a better defense than the Ravens. I've also seen many national talking heads say the Ravens secondary is weak. Huh.

- I think I will be extremely horse on Monday.

- I think I will take my camera to the game, capture some fans, and hopefully some kick butt video.

- I think the outcome of Sunday- Ravens 27, Texans 15.

Dreams

2012-01-12T04:43:00.001-08:00

Quick write up here:

Who believes that dreams are trying to tell you something?

Me? Not so much...

A previous boss, he would base business decisions off them... along with phases of the moon... any if Mars was in retro-grade. (I wish that wasn't true, but it was)

I very very rarely wake up remembering dreams... it just isn't something I do. I believe it is all parts of waking up mid cycle in the resting of the body/brain cycle. For me last night, I dreamt about a flood, and trying to drive around/through it. Turned out, I had to go to the bathroom when I woke up. Thats what I think it meant.

Anyone else believe otherwise?

Things I think:

- I think Marshall Yanda is lucky to be alive, forget playing football at a high level.

- I think it is also amazing that Dick LeBeau is still alive, forget still coaching. (sorry, had to get that one in)

- I think daughter #1 has found her new favorite toy for the next couple days.

- I think it might snow on the Ravens playoff game, high of 36... I'd better bundle up very well.

- I think my world view has shrunk A LOT with the Ravens playoff run.

Looking back to 2000

2012-01-11T05:06:00.001-08:00

Yeah, I am stretching a bit on this one.

Things to remember, in 2000, the Ravens had only been in Baltimore for a couple years. We weren't sure if we liked them that much. The old Colts, like Unitas, were in their corner. So that made old Colts fans more likely to support. The NFL had snubbed Baltimore big time. And we had stolen Cleveland's team, much like Indy had ours. So we were feeling guilty. Very. We had the Colts marching band quickly become the Marching Ravens. (great piece on them)

But as the season went, something was happening. Baltimore was liking this team. I recall actually going to folks houses to watch the games for the first time ever. It was great to talk about the team. The offensive woes, the all galaxy defense. It was something different than anything I recall growing up with. (which was next to nothing)

Then they made the playoffs. I really didn't know what to expect. None.

Each week that went by, more and more people in Baltimore got excited. More and more cars had flags on them. It was like a ground swell of support that took over the town. Everyone had something to point to in Baltimore and say that was their team. That was representing a slice of them. And it got SO many people excited. It was becoming THE event to talk about.

Then the Super Bowl happened and the town exploded. Baltimore became a football town again. The Orioles were still talked about, but as they just finished season 14 of losing baseball in 2011- the Ravens have completely blown them out of minds. (I believe many people want to root for the beloved Orioles, but when you suck that much for that long... )

So now, we are in the fourth straight season of playoffs... and while the 2000 season was 11 years ago, shocking surprises have been replaced with expectations. Will this weekend bring the second home playoff win ever? (thats right, ever) The fans of the Ravens expect it. Is winning too much a bad thing for a team? Ask a Redskins fan right now. (sorry to friends who root for the Redskins)

Things I think:

- I think I need new jeans, I have two pairs with holes, and likely two more nearly there. Ugh.

- I think anyone over 30 should not have a garter belt hanging from their review mirror. Like the dude I saw this morning who looked to be 50+ with one. Seriously?!

- I think Facebook has reached the Internet maturity of about 5-10 years ago. People believe crap, spam/scams, without checking... oh wait, people are still doing that.

- I think this is very true and scary. Sports and concussions, whats next?

- I think I missed this article on new Eneloop batteries.

- I think the lack of a price tag is interesting but not surprising. The surprising fact is that the 60 inch TV looks tiny next to the 84 inch one. 84!!!

- I think if someone from Gizmodo things about stealing a TV because it looks so good, I ought to pay more attention.

Hanging with Mickey Gilley

2012-01-10T04:59:00.001-08:00

My dad's uncle was at the birthday party this past weekend. He and his wife were going out later to celebrate their 66th wedding anniversary. (66th!!!) He will be 90 very soon. He was a POW in WWII after the invasion of Italy. He used to go and sing regularly to various groups, and he is a person I would love to emulate if I can make it to that age bracket.

Recently he took a trip to Branson MO. He love it. LOVED IT.

He went to go see Mickey Gilley perform. (HUGE in country music, even featured on American Pickers) Dude owned the bar that was the basis of Urban Cowboy. Anyhow, the show went on, and my uncle went to hang out afterwards. He saw a guitar up on the wall, and asked if he could play it. Mikey Gilley happened to be there, and said sure.

For the next hour, they played songs, sang, and my great uncle had the time of his life.

My great uncle, at 90, was hanging out Mickey Gilley and singing with him for an hour... thats what you do.

Nice.

Things I think:

- I think after hearing how Alabama throttled LSU, yeah- they deserved it.

- I think having the "National Championship" only on ESPN was sucky.

- I think I am trying to get back on the horse to work out a tad, even if it means working out after the girls go to sleep. Slowly I go back to it... though I am finding I am quiet awake for an hour afterwards.

- I think Kinnect for kids could be interesting.

- I think Microsoft is gonna get in to ALL sorts of new hot water with their "avoid ghetto" GPS app.

- I think Houston is getting a lot more press than Baltimore for this weekend's playoff game, I attribute it to Texas playing and Baltimore resting. Everywhere is saying Baltimore should win. They better kick some butt.

- I think I need to find some sort of KICK BUTT stadium food to take in for the playoff game Sunday. Anyone have suggestions for portable a fest?

The big 01!

2012-01-09T05:06:00.001-08:00

A belated blog birthday to my daughter... she is the big 01!

Yup, unbelievable. Sigh.

It was a great party... way too much food, and I think we didn't even put out a couple things. Ha. Looks like I will have food for happy hour all this week. Will also need to to take some to game night!

It was a great time... lots of happy people attending. We spent a couple days cleaning, preping, and just getting everything in to place. My wife had a master plan, knew all the details, etc. The theme was snowman, because last year when she was born it snowed. However it was about 55 degrees on Saturday. Ha.

(on a side note, Sierra was on a little vacation with my parents for the weekend. She spent the best two days of the winter outside the ENTIRE time... )

The craft table was a huge hit, we had a couple kids sit there the entire time between trips to food. Gotta do that again.

Just enough presents, thank goodness.

All in all, just a great weekend. The easy highlight was the birthday bash.

Now we can focus on the next birthday for a 3 year old. *gasp!*

Things I think:

- I think, bahahahahahahahahaahahaaaaahahahaha! *tear*

- I think I am going to the Ravens/Texans game this Sunday! WOOT!!!!

- I think if my father in law went to Branson, he would setup residency here.

- I think the TSA is a bunch of idiots.

- I think Zombie runs are the latest craze, one that would keep the adrenaline flowing.

- I think I made the mistake of trying to watch Decode's 2012 episode. What a bunch of crap.

Prospective

2012-01-06T04:36:00.000-08:00

The amazing opportunity I thought I had about two months ago is officially dead. It is a shame, I am miffed, upset, confused, etc etc. However, in the back of my mind, I knew there would be other chances. I would allow myself to be upset, ticked, miffed, etc for about a week if need be. However, I think I got over it in record time.

Prospective is a wonderful thing, and allowing new opportunities to replace the one I had been hanging on to is a decent way of operating. Not a bad set of conditions to walk in to. Literally, one door closed, then another one opened. Nice.

Things I think:

- I think we might have one decent snow this year of over 6 inches. Maybe...

- I think xkcd is just funny stuff. Congratz on 1000, and keeping in their geek mode, can't wait for 1024.

- I think I still don't care about Instagram, but I am not sure why... likely out of ignorance and the lack of a data plan on a decent mobile.

- I think I am already overwhelmed by news regarding Nikon's D4.

- I think that is interesting.

- I think these geek shirts are damn cool.

- I think the iPad is just frick'n nice. Just the combination of everything we could want for a young family.

- I think my lunch today is going to be epic.

Mythbusting

2012-01-05T04:49:00.001-08:00

A co-worker said to me yesterday: "My brother, who lived in Montana for the past couple years, said our weather is too nice... he also said Montana set the US record for highest and lowest temperatures in the country."

To which I said, "that can't be true... no way. I'd take Death Valley for highest any time. No way Montana."

Then I fired up Google, typed in some search, and found the correct answers. Montana, while very hot (117) and very very cold (-70), was not either in terms of extremes. (134 in Death Valley and -80 in Alaska)

I also realize, I do this a lot. I do not like not knowing, or having someone throw out claims that seem somewhat believable on the surface, but annoy me that it could be wrong. Call it doubt or skepticism.

I do the same thing with emails via Snopes, and love watching Mythbusters. Been busting email chains for years with simple reply-to-all with a "this is false, and here is why" sort of replies. Gotten to a point where folks I know send me stuff asking if this is real or not. Nice that they think of me in such times, but I wish they would do a little investigation themselves.

So the question is, where do you stop the skepticism? Do you believe a website that seems credible? Do you believe they could have been hacked to plant fake information? Do you believe that what you learned as a kid could be wrong?

Healthy doubt is a relative term. Unless you need to learn everything first hand, self re-discovery of EVERYTHING, there needs to be a point of trust established. It is up to each person to decide what that level is.

For me, I am not wearing a tin foil hat yet, but I am keeping a weary eye/ear out for things that don't seems logical to me.

Things I think:

- I think this is the best advice for U2.

- I think I am going to try and do the Code Academy, its free. I can't get any worse at programming than I am now. Who knows, I might learn stuff.

- I think I don't mind cold weather, it is the wild swings in temps that throw me off. Ease me in to it!

- I think the morning sports talk in Baltimore must be slow because they were trying to find stories about in-laws this morning.

- I think the Ravens are very much in danger of losing their #2 GM. They've promoted him as much as they can, and until Ozzie leaves, he will always be 'only' #2.

- I think I am still smarting from a lost opportunity recently, will take a bit for me to completely get over it.

Hoodie

2012-01-04T05:09:00.001-08:00

I like sweatshirts, go figure. However, I have never had a hood on a sweat shirt until Christmas. I am not entire sure why not, but it is what it is. They aren't the best things in terms of fashion, nor always clean, and the warmth factor could be kicked up a notch... but in terms of just comfy and feeling like you don't want to do anything better- they are the best at that.

I never got a hood on a sweat sweat because I felt it would be in the way... I didn't like the function of the hood. I think a nice warm hat would be much better served. The hand warmer front pocket also was not that effective. Basically it was a poor designed thing that I wanted more from.

Then I got a Ravens hoodie for Christmas, and well- I am willing to deal with certain things to show off my purple. Thank you to my daughters for a wonderful present and one I have worn WAY too much already!

Things I think:

- I think the house just got a little more crazy, daughter #2 can get up on the couch on her own.

- I think I am glad I got Sierra micro-chipped years ago, but I don't know how frequent these stories are.

- I think I got to finish watching three movies over the past few days. Amazing, I know.

- Rear Window- took me at least 4 sittings to finish. Long movie, like the photography tie in, not quiet what I was expecting.

- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo- As always, the book was better. Didn't like Daniel Craig in it, felt too.... British. Decent job putting it all together.

- Hangover Part 2- Don't watch it. Just get the first one and watch that one again. Why did I even bother?

- I think the Ultrabook series is more what I am looking for in a "couch" computer.

Almost one year old

2012-01-03T04:52:00.001-08:00

So Daughter #2's birthday is almost here... she will be the big ONE. Oh my... and I realized over the past 2-3 days that she is no longer a baby and is nearly a toddler in a lot of her actions.

She so desperately wants to be a big girl, does many things that you wouldn't think she should be doing... Here are some of the things I noticed:

- Reaching for the door handle to open doors

- Trying to take something from her sister which was in daughter #1's pocket

- Waving bye as people go out the door

- Talking up a storm

- Loving to grab her jacket because she knows there is a trip someplace fun she is going

- Using Sierra as a pillow/pet/friend/fun

- Recognition of things around her, and curiosity in general

- Knows exactly the toys she likes best

- A very different child when she is by herself without her sister

It will be even more interesting to see how she develops over the next year. Can't wait.

Things I think:

- I think it is official- Sierra has lost a step. Just a combination of several things, but she isn't the same dog she was 6 years ago. *sigh*

- I think it is J.R.R. Tolkien's Eleventy-Tenth birthday!

- I think Bart Scott is a bag of wind- hows the playoffs Bart? How are all those Ravens players just begging to leave to join your team?

- I think every time I see Terrell Suggs in an after game locker room image, he looks like he just got done running a marathon. Just completely spent.

- I think I was overly looking for Terry O'Quinn at Wegmans on Sunday, anyone seemed to have a bald head got a second look.

- I think America's Test Kitchen is a great show- thank you so much for the minestrone soup recipe! Too bad the recipe is hidden behind a semi-paywall.

- I think I am extremely happy there is no Ravens game this weekend, and the first playoff game is on a Sunday at 1pm. Woot. (party anyone?)

- I think it is still amazing to see an image of Sierra on the back cover of Dog World magazine.

Not hard to find...

2012-01-01T17:20:00.000-08:00

Just a quick blog post about a small happening with daughter #1.

She likes to play hide and seek, which is fun with a two year old. I count to ten, and she tries to hide various places. One of the more recent attempts has been to crawl partly under a play table with most of her body sticking out. Ok, not that hard... but still you play along to say you can't find her. "Where could she be?!" Looking everywhere but where she really is.

Recently she had gotten a red balloon from Chick'fil'a. She was carrying it everywhere... including during hide and seek. Well, between her body sticking out from under the table and the balloon above her, she might as well had a Google Maps marker on her indicating thats where she was.

Happy New Year to all!

Always interesting

2011-12-30T04:42:00.001-08:00

So I have a little something in the code of my blog that tracks visits... how people find it, etc. It is nice to see how and why people get to my blog. Most often it is repeat visits from people I know. *big friendly wave*

Then there are times I have no clue whats going on, how people got here... Other times it is something as simple as the All-Clad sale information I put out a while ago. Then All-Clad's official blog linked to it, along with an interview I gave to the Pittsburgh newspaper. So I suppose, somehow I became the 'defacto' source for that lack of information out there.

I just think it is interesting to see what the heck is going on... I have no real target audience, I am not trying to be the tops of anything. This is a source for my musings and if people find it interesting- so be it!

Things I think:

- I think my heart goes out BIG time for my buddy and family in England.

- I think winter is showing up in full cold blasting effect next week. High of 31 is a sure sign the worst part of winter is here. The only positive is that we might get snow out of this cold stuff.

- I think the closing list for K-Marts needs more locations. They have some prime realistate they could sell off for other stores to do MUCH better in. I still have no clue how they remain in business, none.

- I think this morning's bit on 98 Rock with Keith Mills and the morning crew doing their best "Bawlmer" accidents had me in stiches.

- I think I will never get in to skiing. Sorry, just a fact.

- I think if the Ravens loose this weekend, a massive bridge and ledge watch should ensue.

- I think the score of the Bengals/Ravens will be: Bengals 20, Ravens 17. Yep, I went there. I think there are too many injuries for the Ravens to over come. Here is hoping the Steelers fall on their collective face. (so yes, see above comment)

please move along...

2011-12-29T05:00:00.001-08:00

Nothing pithy to post, so straight on to things I think.

Things I think:

- I think dry skin during the winter is just one of those things I have to deal with. *sigh*

- I think I am officially worried about the Ravens offensive line this Sunday. Cinci's Geno Atkins has me extremely worried.

- I think the 4:15 game day slot is painful for a fan with young kids- totally runs through dinner.

- I think any website that makes me feel smarter after I leave it is worth a big thumbs up in my book.

- I think this waterproof boot idea is a neat trick, and I somehow think there is a Scout out there who wants to give it a go at Philmont.

- I think if my household wants solar, sooner than later is the time to do it.

- I think this sort of thing makes me wonder what else you can do with a snack bag.

- I think the photo alone is freaky.

- I think Costco's cashew clusters are addictive.

- I think I need someone to sponsor me for a few pricey items:

computer

reciever

laptop

I am sure there is more big ticket items, but that should be a nice start for now.

On Netipots

2011-12-28T05:53:00.001-08:00

Double post day!

I am a fan of nasal irrigation (aka the Neti Pot)... and an even bigger fan of the squeeze bottle version of it. The combination of a shower then nasal flush has been amazing. Can't wait to tackle the spring allergy season with these. I've noticed a minor headache from my sinus area now that I haven't been able to flush them out this week. The only down sides to using the product so far have been:

- A little time it takes to use it

- When properly working, random leaking 5-10 minutes after wards from upper sinuses.

- Having to use individual solution/salt packets,

Thus I ran in to this problem this week- running out of packets of solution. Can't run this thing without the solution... Off to the Amazon machine to find a decent deal! I ran in to two options:

Two squeeze bottles, and 250 salt packs for $24; thus $0.096 per pack- not including the bottles.

200 salt packs for $22; thus $0.11 per pack

Let me get this straight- I get 50 more packs and two bottles for $2?!?!?!!?

Or- 250 salt packs for $0.096 per pack PLUS two free bottles, or 200 salt packs for $0.011 per pack.

That seems to be a no brainer to me. Oh, and if you have Amazon Prime Mom like me, its free shipping and second day delivery.

Paperboy...

2011-12-28T04:48:00.001-08:00

I recall back in the day when I was a paperboy. Actually, as it turns out- I was one of the last paperboys employed by the Baltimore Sun. I even got a severance package- one additional paycheck for nadda. Pretty sweet for a teenager who didn't want the job any how.

The thing about being a paperboy though, was the holiday collection. (I really REALLY hated doing the monthly money collection) It was done in person, you handed out tickets indicating you had paid... it kept track of who paid, who was ahead/behind in payments. It was painful for me.

The most postive thing about it was that I learned I could get a Christmas tip from time to time. I never even thought that would be possible to be honest. When I got my first tip, I was on cloud nine. However, that was short lived as that money was swept up to cover my costs for people who I could not get to pay... it eventually got caught up in a month or two, but for that short time I was on cloud nine.

Just one of those memories about doing a job for some money as a kid. Along with cutting grass, working at Scout Camp, and for about two months making pizza at Little Ceasers. (may I NEVER work in the food industry again)

Things I think:

- I think the price of gas went up 10 cents in a day. (I saw it at at least one gas station on my morning commute)

- I think the pile of recyclying I put out this morning took 5 trips to the curb. Yikes. Thats after spending 15 minutes compacting and bagging it all.

- I think the Ravens' loss of Yanda is MUCH more significant than most people know.

- I think Freakonomics always has the most interesting information.

- I think Pawn Stars is starting to slip a bit, the material is getting thinner and products are slowing down on the interesting scale. Not their fault, they have made a literal mint off this.

- I think the closing of the Sears Outlet on Bel Air rd would not be missed- the customer service there was HORRIBLE. HORRIBLE!

- I think Sierra is finally showing her age. On a recent trip to the vets, they stated she is getting arthritis in her rear legs. *sigh* She is 8.5 years old.

Holiday cheer

2011-12-27T04:45:00.001-08:00

A run down of my holiday impressions:

- Hearing daughter #1 say, "Thats exactly what I always wanted!" to a present is amazing, even better when it was family who gave it to her.

- Watching daughter #2 play with wrapping paper more than the actual toy is heart warming in odd ways.

- Having two days of "parties" was extra fun for the girls.

- Firing up the memory machine, aka videos, from the previous Christmas was amazing- on so many levels.

- Watching daughter #1 be an angel in a Christmas pageant was nice, but to watch her do her own thing for the entirety of it was funny and slightly embarrassing the entire time. Even the lead, aka older, angel couldn't get her to stay with the other angels.

- I believe my daughters got almost or more presents in this one Christmas than I recall receiving for my entire childhood.

- I also recall receiving a larger amount of clothing than I care to remember.

- I ate WAY too much GREAT food. Even brought some snacks in to work.

- When done well, sauerkraut is amazing. (ok ok, a little gasy too)

- Only two full trash cans put out today, one more than normal.

- I pity the trash men this week.

- The amount of recycling I am going to put out is, well, daunting.

- The couple well thought out gifts I got are already well used.

- I did not think I took too many photos at all... actually I was too darn busy playing host to be an effective photographer, and I was plenty ok with that.

- I didn't see too many kids outside on Christmas day which means outside toys were not too popular this year.

- Next year I need to put out more lights around the front of the house.

Not much

2011-12-23T05:03:00.001-08:00

Not a lot going on other than prep for the "hap-happiest time of year."

I honestly have no clue if we have any more space in our house for more toys. Seriously... we are an official kid run house. I think the only room without some toy might be the attic which we don't have easy access to. Yikes.

Things I think:

- I think I like to say what my grandmother would say at this time of year, "at least the days are getting longer..." I believe she meant the daylight. Though I think this is the first year I didn't really notice too badly the shrinking daylight.

- I think we will be lucky to get one decent snow this winter.

- I think I just saw a tumbleweed roll through the office.

- I think it is a sad day for the Philmont family. Rest in peace Virginia Phillips, wife of Chope Phillips.

- I think it is about time we figured this out. Though I really don't care.

- I think this would be amazing to photographic. However, there are too many OTHER places in China that would make me pee my pants to photograph. (thats right, I went there)

- I think the outcome of tomorrow's Ravens vs Browns game will be: Ravens 24, Browns 10.

Things...

2011-12-22T05:05:00.001-08:00

Things I think:

- I think I had never heard of Chewpons until yesterday.

- I think a backpack that crinkles would drive me bonkers.

- I think it was only a matter of time that your butt would be involved in security.

- I think I need to figure out my Christmas morning camera lighting for present opening...

- I think it is amusing to have my older daughter think Costco samples as a fine restaurant. Though she was disappointed that there were no avocados for sampling.

- I think it is very interesting to see how daughter #2 plays and interacts when her older sister isn't around.

- I think watching the Ravens play on Christmas Eve is gonna be nice. Gonna be weird fo a 1pm start on a Saturday though.

- I think Michael Oher is NOT a Pro-Bowler- sorry, but thats what I think. (take away the movie and most folks would have not known of him)

- I think my work place is a wash with cookies and treats, however not enough people to eat it all.

Lost and found

2011-12-21T04:50:00.001-08:00

So about three or four weeks ago I had a mishap involving a water bottle semi-full of water and my work bag. Basically the lid wasn't tight, and flooding occurred. Ugh... Nothing like thinking it is odd that water is dripping from your bag, but not investigating.

My set of keys were in the bag, and I moved them. I don't recall where to... I was in an all day meeting, so my normal path of stuff was interrupted and things were embarrassing enough. (I keep my key to my car separate from the rest of my keys) I had to grab a bunch of paper towels to soak up water during the meeting and breaks.

Well, I thought I had lost my keys. I called back to the place of the meeting and no one turned in the keys. I looked high and low for them. I turned my bag inside out... I looked in the car, every possible jacket, pants, shirt, etc to check. I looked in silly places like the draws of my work desk. I even concluded that I must have accidentally thrown away my keys during the drying process.

Nadda. I had given up... I started to research what it would take to replace some of the keys on that ring but only half heartily.

Then last night, my wife was looking for the loose key to the other car- and she found my keys in, of all places, my work bag. HOLY MOLY!

How....

Where....

Really?!!?

It turns out I put the keys in a space I NEVER use on my bag after the accident to keep them 'safe' from everything including myself.

Whew....

Things I think:

- I think my geek senses are on full alert.

- I think this burning is awful.

- I think watching my daughters play together, then giggle and pretend to tickle each other is one of the cutest things I have ever seen.

- I think I need to get our 1st generation iPod Nano to UPS faster. (I have it in the Apple supplied envelope for goodness sake!)

- I think end of the world fanatics love ANY little slice of possible they can get their hands on, however the Mayan one is WAY misguided.

- I think today marks the 5th anniversary of the first date with my future wife. Amazing on every level.

Nathan Myhrvold

2011-12-20T09:40:00.001-08:00

Just as a note: if I could buy stock in Nathan Myhrvold, I would.

However, I can't. And I can't invest in Intellectual Ventures which is privately owned company he heads and co-founded. Oh, and he was also the CIO for Microsoft at a strech- bummer. And he is a prize winning photographer.

About the closest I can get to him is the OVERLY expensive Modernist Cuisine book series. ($450)

That is all.

Taxing

2011-12-20T05:35:00.001-08:00

So I have been kicking around the idea of a new method of taxation with some sort of direct representation. Sorta... more like- an opt-in system to make sure you fund the things you want to fund. Let me explain some of the prerequisites for the system.

Assumptions:

- People would like to directly fund things they like/use with their tax dollars

- Other people don't care, or like how the system works currently

- Most publicly funded things like Police, Fire, schools, and garbage collection need an annual base funding no matter what

- The resulting system likely will be gamed somehow... I know it, and it will always happen. (special services for extra moneys, departments begging for money publicly... )

With that in mind, I think a method for individuals to opt-in to directing their tax money distribution might be an interesting idea. It can't happen for say cooperate taxes, or businesses, or sales taxes... but for individuals who want to, it might be interesting to see the results. Say an individual in neighborhood X doesn't care about the school system, they don't have kids, and just don't care to funding that part of their community. That's fine and good. They would opt-in to the individual tax system, and direct how their taxes would be put in to other buckets. Perhaps show big buckets like their money all goes to Police, or show a tax tree/menu where you can drill down to individual funding efforts like Boys and Girls clubs run by the Police. People feel vested when they have a rooting or financial interest in specific things.

The system can't be too complicated obviously... but showing all the different things that ARE funded may also give them a chance to reconsider. I don't know... but making things vast and a tad complicated tends to scare people away. Over simplifying to a catch phrase or a couple percentages also endangers the breadth of and longevity of how things evolved. Hopefully people realize their collective funds go to A LOT of different things.

So the individual chooses to throw their tax money over to funding the Policy, Fire, and Library system because thats what they believe in. While their next door neighbor, who has 4 kids, throws their money in to the Library, education, and roads. So while the various branches of the system will always get a base tax level, it is entirely possible for every individual who opts in, they could get a boat load of extra money, or no extra money at all. Would be a very interesting result to say the least.

This might cause chaos on public efforts, but then again, it would allow the people a "vote" in what they believe in. Otherwise, the money that can be spread out is up to those voted in to office- which apparently is scary as heck. (or so I have heard)

Things I think:

- I think the 49ers just gave the Ravens a huge early Christmas gift, now it is time for the Ravens NOT to screw it up. Win out and they get the #2 seed and a first round bye.

- I think Red Drawf returning for a six part mini-series is gonna get my geek/college self all sorts of ramped up.

- I think North Korea is messed up. (really messed up)

- I think I do love The Big Picture

- I think this is a very interesting method of dealing with an upset child on a flight.

- I think waffles are one of those magical breakfast/brunch things that most people like.

Random

2011-12-19T04:54:00.001-08:00

After the Ravens got crushed, I am just posting some random stuffy about: Things I think:

- I think my dog just doesn't recover from an hour long walk along the Gunpowder like she used to.

- I think toddlers who don't want to nap are no fun.

- Bonus from above, I think I need to read more of this.

- I think my Fantasy Football season is done. Was a good run, just too many injuries.

- I think I need to read the sports pages less, no seriously. Stop laughing.

- I think the amount of energy spent this weekend all over the country devoted to cookie making has got to be astronomical.

Big blue bus

2011-12-16T05:03:00.001-08:00

Back in the day, I lived to go camping with my Scout troop. I loved it. It was a semi-magical experience. Plan for the trip, get food, etc. Friday night would roll along and we would all hop on the big blue bus (yes, my scout troop had a big blue bus), and be taken away to the camp of the month. It was a fantastic journey to be all thrown together for that trip.

One trip in particular was up to camp Horseshoe in PA. Why was it so memorable? We drove up in a raging near blizzard, something I couldn't imagine doing today. However, we did it. It was complete with snow-thunder. When we finally woke up in the morning, we had who knows how much snow on the ground. Thankfully we didn't have to be anywhere for another day, so snow adventures abounded. It was perfect.

The cabin was also the perfect combination of bunk house and dormitory for my world needs. I had half a bunk-bed, I believe the bottom which suited me fine. We had a great potbelly stove to help heat the space, and a HUGE set of windows to see in to the woods. I believe there might have been 20 or so total people there, but it was the perfect amount to do stuff and have some isolation to do what you needed to. It was also the first trip someone REALLY tried to teach/guide/try to role-play the Marvel universe. I never was a fanatic, but I tried it out because I was a bit of a geek at the time.

And the game of capture the flag was epic in the snow that night.

When I think of perfect camping trips, that one nearly always comes out on top. Not to mention that's also where I feel in love with the very simple camp version of French Toast. Even if it was just a shadow of what it really ought to be... it was perfect then.

Then again, as time passes, and memories get jumbled- I might be just throwing together some of the best moments from different trips. But I think this one is still right. And I want to believe it is.

Things I think:

- I think this information amazes me, but I it is logical if pondered.

- I think my evening is getting earlier and earlier... at least three times this week I found myself nodding off at about 9pm on the couch, waking up about 20 minutes later so I can drag myself to bed. Damn.

- I think Christmas is nearly here! Amazing.

- I think work is gonna have even more tumble weeds rolling through over the next two weeks than ever before. And yes, I plan to work the days between holidays. Super low key days, get stuff done, and much less stress.

- I think if I had to pick another Ravens jersey to get, it would be a Suggs.

- I think it is hard to believe that nearly 5 years ago I had my first date with my future wife.

- I think the score for Sunday night for the Ravens vs the Chargers in SD will be: Ravens 19, Chargers 17. (I honestly am VERY nervous about the winablitly of the game.)

Quick post

2011-12-15T04:43:00.000-08:00

Off and running around today, so a quick blog post before my work day makes me disappear.

Things I think:

- I think watching my daughter yesterday run to me saying "I did it! I did it!" Is one of those things I will remember forever.

- I think alarm clocks are for wusses.

- I think while the military is done in Iraq, the amount of money being spent to support the country is now just going to flow to the State Department instead.

- I think the lack of Ravens chatter on the morning sports talk station is disturbing. Instead they were attempting to make some talking-head crap about Jeter. Really?

- I think my FF team made it to the semi-finals of my league, but is about to end it's run- it is up against the #1 team of the league which averages about 24 points more than me. (with one less game played!)

- I think getting some sort of basic communication rolling with daughter #2 is a major milestone. She doesn't do as much sign language as daughter #1 did, but a key action or two has made a world of difference the past couple days. Most notable her sign for "more." (the proper one) Her's is a pointer to the other hand's palm.

Live, from home!

2011-12-13T10:46:00.000-08:00

Its my turn to watch the girls for the day. Nothing is wrong, just being a solo dad for today. Kinda interesting so far!

Thankfully it was nice in the sun, so we got to spend some time outside. Daughter #1 is still learning the basics of a bike, well a trike actually, but she is getting the hang of it. Come spring/summer next year- look out!

Daughter #2 thinks she is as old as everyone else. Makes for some interesting times.

Off to relax a bit while they are both sleeping at the same time.

Things I think:

- I think this is, indeed, the dumbest camera ban ever.

- I think this is a great list of debunked brain myths!

- I think it is hard to believe it has been TEN years since the the first Fellowship of the Ring was put on the big screen. To honor it, I will attempt to watch it in parts over the next few nights. Who am I kidding, I doubt I will get through 2/3 of it in a week.

- I think people need to watch themselves.

- I think I made it to round two of my FF playoffs. No clue who I am playing yet- but my team is being held together with duct tape.

Nicely done, but ...

2011-12-12T04:56:00.001-08:00

Well, the Ravens beat up on the hapless Colts. Normally I would have felt great about beating the Colts- Baltimore history and all. But this season without Manning, it isn't the same. It felt more like a scrimmage. Just beating down on a bad team...

Sure the announcers tried to push it as a "doesn't matter!" and "any given Sunday" sort of spin on it... but the Ravens pulled several key starters in the fourth quarter to give that pre-season feel to the game. (at least I noticed Ngata on the sidelines for a defensive series)

Heck, I did not even break out a jersey to wear. I didn't even see the Colts score. (my Friday prediction for the game: Ravens vs Colts: 16-7 . Real result: 24-10)

Next weekend is a different story however- Sunday Night football vs the Chargers. Seems they have found new life, but they haven't faced a Defense like the Ravens recently. I hope the Ravens have figured out how to travel to the West Coast smartly so they can't blame the travel.

Things I think:

- I think What the Duck hits home again.

- I think Freakonomics makes me feel smarter on a semi-regular basis.

- I think I am a geek, when I heard a commercial about a movie that comes with "cloud" storage of your movie "safely and securely," I thought- what about the other Information Assurance points? (Confidentiality, Availability, Authentication, Non-repudiation, and Authenticity.) These other points are a lot more than just "secure." Yeah, Geek Life!

- I think I need to throw another body on my FF trail of destruction- Mr. Murray, it was nice knowing you. Next RB please!

- I think unless Brandon Lloyd scores 16 points, I move on to the next round of the playoffs. (his best game this SEASON was 16 points)

- I think I am glad I don't do children's photography for a living. (toddler and baby in particular)

Gummi

2011-12-09T04:48:00.001-08:00

I am not much of a sugar food person, I would rather have a bag of chips than a chocolate bar. However there is something about all things Gummi that makes me weak in the knees.

In high school I would go to the grocery store when "Bulk Food" meant open containers of various food and a scoop to put it in to bags of your choosing. You would pay by weight... well, I would always always always get a least a small bag of gummi worms. Yum.

Maybe it was when I was in Germany back in 1990. I am sure that had a part to play in this adventure. It was a treat to get them, and I suspect I had more than one bag while in the homeland of all things Gummi.

Even somewhat recently my wife bought some discounted Halloween gummy worms, and I couldn't stop eating them.

I honestly have no clue what spell it has over me, but thankfully I won't go out seeking them. If they happen to be around I will grab some. Otherwise, they are a treat only remembered.

Things I think:

- I think this is just horrible. No other way to put it.

- I think I actually got a spam email that encourages me to, "Pimp my FB page." Really?

- I think Charlie Wies doesn't look like he had gastic bypass surgery a few years ago.

- I think if you told me the Ravens would go 9-6 before the season started, I might have bulked a bit but not been utterly shocked. But if you told me they would go 13-3, sweep the Steelers, and still tie them for over all record for the AFC North- that would have shocked me.

- I think the final score for the Ravens vs Colts: 16-7 (won't feel that close as the Ravens go up and down the field, but fail to convert Red Zone to TDs) I hope I am wrong on the converting to TDs thing.

When did this happen?!

2011-12-08T04:56:00.001-08:00

December is here, full tilt. Holiday music is playing, I come home to very happy children... cookies were baked last night. I expect our weekends to be booked solid, holiday getogethers, fun, things to do!

Well, turns out this weekend is pretty much empty.

*cue record scratch*

When. How..... what the heck happened?! Not that there is anything wrong with having an open weekend date this close to Christmas... if anything it is refreshing and a nice pause before the madness.

I suspect it will wind up being the day we clean way too many things.

Alas, I think this is actually a pleasent surprise.

Things I think:

Sugar cookies

- I think I have never seen nor heard my older daughter so happy last night while making sugar cookies last night.

- I think seeing a car covered in snow while I saw none is a tad odd. (PA plates, makes for a heck of a commute)

- I think this photo series on Pearl Harbor is fantastic.

- I think the idea of a personal home based beer tap is interesting, but is it as price effective, easy, or tastes better than a bottle version? The $100 just for the system could buy a bunch of beer just to start with, so the price difference between bottles and the inserts better be worth it. Though I just did see it handles only three beers, one of which is a personal favorite- Newcastle!

- I think starting to unload baby gear is an interesting problem- how, when, where? Anyone want a Chicco baby car seat, stroller, and three bases? =)

Things I think

2011-12-07T05:03:00.001-08:00

Just stuff I think for today:

- I think I really dislike these holiday car kits.

- I think I need to buy these Clark's shoes next. Why? They have Gore-Tex liners. Perfect for days like today... I hate wet socks. The price is daunting however.

- I think this is sneaky.

- I think this app is pretty darn interesting.

- I think I really like this.

- I think this is not shocking really, considering this. (ps. I love freakonomics)

- I think I hadn't seen so much spam as I received in one day on Black Friday of this year. The volume was at an all time high.

- I think today, December 7th, is indeed losing it's impact to many today. Relevance is a mighty thing. Not saying it is good or bad, but it is what it is. My dad's uncle served in WWII, and was a POW in Europe after the invasion of Italy. He lives an amazing life, traveling, playing music, being social and active. He is the type of person I hope I am. Yet, he only recently has spoken of his experiences in WWII. I can only imagine what his life was like on December 6th vs December 7th 1941.

Correction

2011-12-06T09:46:00.001-08:00

For some reason I thought the Ravens were playing San Diego this weekend. I really did.

Looks like they are actually playing the Colts. While I would rather play, and win, against Peyton... a win against the old Horseshoe would be sweet nonetheless.

Video games

2011-12-06T05:14:00.001-08:00

I used to love to play video games. I think I liked them because I couldn't play them... By which I mean, my time that I could have played them was restricted by both time and access. I would yearn for some time on my friend's Commodore to play Caveman Ughlymics. When I did get a game for my Apple II plus, it was something I played whenever I could- The Bard's Tale. When I finally got a used Nintendo, I played Zelda and Mario too much. (about two years after it came out)Even though I wasn't that good or got that far. I made the most of that 13 inch black and white screen.

Then in college I played MUDs. Spent way too much time on those... waking up early in college just to get some of the better items while they were known to be there? Insanity!

Now, here I am with the world at my fingertips, iPad speaking, and all I have on said iPad are two free versions of Angry Birds. Whats wrong with me?! Why am I not taking the dragon by the horns, or shooting stuff, or loading up Ticket to Ride and conquering that? I own a Wii, one of the simplest yet fun game systems known to man... and I haven't even plugged it back in after loaning it out about 4-5 months ago.

It comes down to all the other things I could be doing- choices. I could spend time gaming, playing, averting my attention. I could even be out snapping photos all the time... or I could be involved in Boy Scouts more like I used to, or the Philmont Staff Association... etc. But I have made a decision to be a better dad and spend time having pretend cooking fun, or being used as a human jungle gym. Despite what Freakonomics says, I hope providing more direct interation and support to my kids early on and throughout their lives will be helpful. I refuse to be a helicopter parent. (that would drive me nutty) But I refuse to be hands off and simply nudge the child out of harms way.

Lets see how things turn out in about 12 years. So far they are pretty darn fantastic kids, and if the wife and I keep at it- hopefully will be pretty darn fantastic young adults. My ideal results would be that they would want to equally want to go camping with me, traveling as a family, or go singing with mom. Lets see how this goes. Loving being a dad.

Things I think:

- I think the TicketMaster settlement is a bit crap. I don't see myself buying more than 2-3 sets of concert tickets in the next five years even to come close to reaching my settlement limit of 17 transactions. Between 1999 and 2010, I know I ordered a bunch of U2 tickets alone. I don't even want to think about them... from ones I used, or sold, or traded, *sigh*

- I think this top 10 alternative Christmas songs list is solid.

- I think this doesn't bode well for my kids. ack.

- I think it was too soon to assume Brett Favre was done I guess. When will the rumors of a return stop? I am starting to think he is part zombie.

- I think, for the most part, I don't care what happens to the Postal Service. If they deliver it 2-3 times a week, I am down with that.

- I think the Ravens defense is looking good with the younger players. Liking the draft results so far. Shame about Foxworth and Carr, but their time is gone- SOOOO glad the team got right with Webb and Williams, but Jimmy Smith is looking like a homerun. Then there is the linebackers. Lets see how they start re-stocking the O-line.

- I think I am a little worried about the game vs the Chargers. Cross country trip against a desperate team with a manic offense/defense. It should be a win, but it is going to be a nail-bitter. If the Ravens play a clean solid game, with the defense imposing their will- life will be good. I see Rivers with that "what the hell was that" look all night.

Kid play

2011-12-05T05:04:00.001-08:00

Amazing things kids... in particular my nearly 11 month old. She woke up a smidgen early this morning.... I got her after my wife tried to settle her and get to back to sleep. I let her play while I did my morning thing, keeping an eye on her. She went from a Leap Pad laptop pressing buttons, playing with it, and talking to a piece of pink colored cardboard with equal interest.

If a kid from 50 years ago had seen the laptop thing, they might have thought it was something from the space program. Seriously. 100+ years ago? Might as well have been witch craft.

My daughter however has these neat toys all around her. She has learned the power of the index finger to make things make sounds, lights to come on, and get reactions from others. She has a large range of various toys like that. What does she spend equal amount of time with? A piece of cardboard. Thats right! I am not bashing, I am just amazed. To have that curiosity and interest in something that bland to me, is amazing and brings a smile to my face.

I hope they keep that curiosity throughout their life.

Things I think-

- I think I don't eat Indian food nearly enough. Specifically go to Mt. Everest on Bel Air road- what a FANTASTIC buffet they have for $9.99. *sigh* The Tikka is so good I wish they would bottle it so I could eat it more often at home.

- I think I have no idea why Tim Tebow keeps winning, but I am on the Tebow express for my FF team. *whoo-whooo!*

- I think I don't care who plays the halftime of the Super Bowl unless U2 plays it again, or the Ravens are in it. Ok ok ok... scratch the second point.

- I think it is interesting to hear from two different family/friend combos recently that they are interested in moving and are looking at my area to move to. Nice.

- I think I need to figure how both play with my kids and work out at the same time. So far my answers have been locking them in a playpen, putting them on the handle bars of a bike, or continuing to lay on the floor and let them jump on me. None of the answers have created a path to healthy answers for all involved.

- I think I got darn close to the real score again, on Friday I predicted a 21-10 victory- real score for the Ravens was 23-10. I feel a little smarter today, better yet though I feel good about the win for the playoffs.

- I think I am still upset about moving training camp away from Westminster. Thankfully I haven't listened to sports talk to get myself riled up again.

- I think it is finally flannel sheets time of year.

- I think I am a horrible Christmas shopper. (thats all)

The Ravens have made a big mistake

2011-12-02T12:00:00.001-08:00

Just saw the announcement to hold training camp at their full time faclitlies instead of McDaniel.

That is NOT cool, not at all.

The years of creating good will and buying in to the community have come to a hault with this move. It makes me VERY sad and upset that they would decide to do this. No matter how they couch it, expenses, moving, control, facilitlies, the change in the CBA, the changes in how much/many practices.... they have removed the easy wonderful way of connecting with their fan base. No open practices at M&T Bank downtown will ever come close to the training camps at McDaniel.

ESPN's AFC Blog post about it

Baltimore Sun article about it

update: The Ravens sure are circling the wagons on getting "the right decision" information brief out to all who will listen. I say again, no matter how they couch it- it is still the wrong decision.

A warm fuzzy

2011-12-02T04:57:00.001-08:00

Over the past couple days my brain has been getting warm fuzzies from a memory... in this case it is from my mother's mother's kitchen. It was always warm, welcoming, just so, and just about ALWAYS smelled like a kitchen should. From the familiar flooring, to the small table that my grandparents ate at. My grandparents built the house themselves. (actually, they built the barn first) They knew every little bit about it, from the steep stairs to the basement, to any possible leaky window. But I still believe the place they spent the most time in that house was the kitchen.

I can recall the rare occasions when they would can tomatoes, and other summer vegetables. While I was too young to learn about it, I can recall it being a VERY hot and not without risks. However, having summer fresh grandparents veggies in the winter was kinda neat.

Every holiday I can recall, they would have warm dinner rolls. Somehow, they were usually forgotten and my grandmother would go back to the kitchen and bring them back to the dinning room. I believe my grandmother really loved that space. It was the heart of the house.

I don't ever believe I ever saw the front door of their house open. Everyone knew the only real entrance was the back door, which lead almost directly in to the kitchen. To get to the rest of the house proper, you had to walk through the kitchen. It felt perfect to me.

Things I think:

- I think that I haven't moved forward with my invitation to Diaspora because I just don't care THAT much about social media.

- I think that Coke's branding was too strong, so much they over reached on the holiday design crossing over to another well known layout. Whoops. And I agree, several times I thought I was reaching for a Diet can. But if they want to ditch the unused drink, feel free to ship my way.

- I think my fantasty team still has an outside chance at making the playoffs. I need two other teams to loose and a win for me. I play one of those teams, so 2/3 of my goal is in my team's hands.

- I think this morning is the first day of the All-Clad seconds sale. Good luck to all those attending.

- I think I LOVE the fact that major map sites include current traffic speeds on major roads.

- I think I just noticed that Google Maps included weather as an option of information- about time!

- I think my Twitter account/use is dieing a very slow death.

- I think I want to believe in Joe Flacco as a solid, bordering on great, QB. But I am just not getting a warm fuzzy week in and week out. Yet, he is better than Kyle Boller, Troy Smith, Anthony Wright, Jeff Blake, Chris Redman, Tony Banks, Stoney Case, and Scott Mitchell. (just to name a few other starting Ravens QBs)

- I think the score for the Ravens game Sunday at 4pm: Ravens 21, Browns 10. (then again, I did have a dream where the Ravens broke the 100 point mark... freaky)

Santa visit recap

2011-12-01T05:08:00.001-08:00

So we went up to Harford Mall last night to get our photo with Santa. I packed my camera gear, as in the previous two tries at White Marsh I could snap happy. We had heard good things about the Harford Mall Santa and it wasn't even December yet so we expected smaller lines.

We get there, and one other family was there. One. After they were done, no one else showed up even as we were walking away.

However, there was a big sign that said no personal photos allowed. I was miffed, beyond miffed. I was ticked off really... I was going to have PAY for a photo from someone else. A mall photo. An unedited, crap laid out, untrained, single strobe dead on, photo. One I had to pay $10 extra for the privilege of getting. You can see I was miffed I suppose. I didn't even want to look at the photo being taken, it was a personal afront.

Daughter #1 was not too happy about actually seeing Santa, daughter #2 didn't care as long as mom held her. In the mean time getting everyone to look the same direction was not working. Then Santa asked dad, me, to join. Who can say no to Santa? I was still miffed, but at least we got a family photo with Santa and no one cried. (well, I did a little on the inside)

When I got home to pull the image off the CD, there was some surprises on the disc- it wanted to install a program?! Seriously? Are we in 2001 again when things were neat and cute? Come on people, this is a single Christmas photo. The security wonk in me shuttered at this prospect.

At least they gave us a free $20 credit to Snapfish, which is exactly where we were planning to get our cards made this year anyhow.

Kudos to the Santa who had been doing the gig for 25 years.

Things I think:

- I think Famous Dave's BBQ has too much darn sauce. If you have to cover every meat in sauce, I believe they are trying to hide something in the meat. (btw, my burger ordered med-well was charred on the outside, not the way I expected in a negative way) Also, their liberal use of jalapenos was surprising and annoying.

- I think I need to do this to help with our squeaky floors. Thankfully Home Depot sells it, but oddly not Lowes.

- I think this is one of the DUMBEST things I have heard in a long while. The advent of CNN's iReport has shown that the masses of people are more than willing to give away their material for free. (spot on my arse) Why pay full time trained photographers when cell phone pictures are all people want to see? Edgy, timely, and free. (did I mention Free?)

- I think it is amazing how much we talk about things slowing down in December, but from my perch it is going full steam ahead. If not more.

- I think it was very cool to have Barry Sanders driving the Lions bus for the NFL's Play 60 commerical.

- I think ESPN's AFC North blog is WAY more active than I expected, which is a good thing.

On suburbia

2011-11-30T04:55:00.001-08:00

The wife and I use a video monitor for the wee ones. It is a layer of comfort to know what exactly is going on in the crib. At first it was analog because we only had to worry about one kid, but after the second showed up- we moved to a digital system for both. It can support up to four cameras, but there is a lot less interference however a loss of picture quality. It is a nice unit, rotating between the kids every 8 seconds or so.

There was a downside of the first one because of where we were located we could pick up at least three other houses monitors. Even though there were two channels to choose from, turning off our camera would allow pick up other stations several hundred feet away. A little disturbing for house monitoring and child watching. This is the worrisome part on how easy it is to find out who has children: Go to Toys'r'Us purchase popular monitor model, drive down suburban street getting information... pick dead of night to drive back and see if child is in crib. If not, house is empty and ripe for picking.

Please note, with the current digital solution we have, the camera and receiver need to be paired. I am sure it can be gotten around, but it is not something any idiot can get information on.

Those are some of the concerns with living in suburbia.

Things I think:

- I think my morning commute was a complete and utter breeze this morning, worth noting because it is normally not.

- I think having both my daughter sleep through the night is a wonderful thing. Even if daughter #2 woke up at 12:45, cried for about 15-20 minutes, and fell back to sleep.

- I think some of these items are cool new dad stuff.

- I think getting the Think Geek holiday 2011 catalog in the mail is about as fun as getting the Toys'r'Us catalog as a kid. (come on, thats funny!)

- I think and I wish Think Geek had the banner from page 4 on the catalogue for sale. *sigh*

- I think I know only one person who cares that the NBA still having a season is even remotely important. (clue: it isn't me)

- I think it is very funny and cute to walk in to the bathroom where daughter #1 is going potty, and see her arms full of toilet paper.

- I think the loss of Ravens training camp at McDaniel College is awful. I absolutely adore going once a summer if I can. The inner football kid in me me love it. The photographer geek in me loves it. The fun, the fellow fans, the freedom to see who you want. I have a signed photo from Ngata that I took at training camp. I was one of three people watching the defensive line. I had my camera snapping happily, when Ngata took off his helmet, looked around, and gave me the "hang loose" sign. (see it here) If they take that chance away, Despite the summer heat and humidity, despite the possible rain and thunder, despite the cost, despite the pack and unpacking, it is utterly worth it as a Ravens fan to do this. I will be VERY disappointed if this happens. Come on Steve, leave it alone.

Morning commute fun

2011-11-29T05:22:00.001-08:00

So, my morning commute should have been regular. However it wasn't. These are the types of days that make normal days seem fine and sane. Its all relative.

Thankfully I was caffeinated, and had a new audio book to start. From one whew, to crap, to whew, to DOH!, to oh fudge on a stick. The one redeming factor of the entire morning was that I located a sweet parking spot. Thank you overly large truck hiding a spot from the normal flow of traffic!

Things I think:

- I think a baby that won't go back to sleep is no fun for anyone.

- I think my older daughter is darn funny, from my wife this morning: "... walks into the bedroom that has clothes everywhere and says, "how do you expect me to watch Curious George in this mess?""

- I think I found my answer for the Zombie-pocalypse.

- I think I need a haircut.

- I think my team might have a sliver of hope for the Fanasty football playoff hunt, but is still impressive when it produces like it ought to.

- I think an iPad with wi-fi access on vacation is perfect for checking in.

- I think coming back to work after any time off is no fun.

Monday night update

2011-11-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

Back from our family vacation to the Chicago area. Woot.

It was much different for me as I have never been away from the Baltimore area for Thanksgiving. I think, and I am totally estimating on this, it will mark the first time in about 30 years I haven't been to the Thanksgiving day game between Calvert Hall and Loyola. My dad went to CHC, and I started going with him to the game when I was about 8 I think. Or when ever my mom thought I was old enough to head down to the old Memorial Stadium on 33rd street to watch.

It was weird not heading out to the game, but instead going to the airport on Thanksgiving morning. Interestingly enough though, for my older daughter it would be her 3rd and 4th airplane ride by the ripe old age of two and a half. For my younger daughter it would be her 1st and 2nd flight. They handled flying like old pros. It also helped that we talked up the flight, got daughter #1 her own back to take with stuff. She was so in to everything, that she had to take her shoes off at security even though she didn't have to. (what a trooper!)

On the flight home, I wish I could have easily taken a photo of daughter #1 in her seat. She had headphones on, the iPad rolling Curious George, her shoes off, sipping apple juice (a very much sometimes treat), and me handing her snacks like pretzels. She was happy, and hardly noticed what was going on. I believe this is the treatment people in First Class get, if Southwest had a First Class section.

Not going to recap the trip, but I will give some I thinks about what I did run in to:

I think:

- I think the general Baltimore area could do well with a Portillo's.

- I think the lunch special at Geno's East is darn worth it.

- I think I ate WAY too much food the entire trip.

- I think we will be eating a lot of chicken and veggies for the rest of this week.

- I think it is weird not to have some sort of notable hills.

- I think we part of our summer vacation planned for 2012.

- I think it is amazing that I can leave Chicago this morning at 8am with snow and 38 degrees, to arrive less than two hours later to Baltimore with sun and 70 degrees.

- I think it was gut wrenching not being able to watch the first half of the Ravens/49ers game, or even know the score.

- I think we need to get our Christmas cards ordered by this weekend, need one more key photo to complete it.

- I think, no wait, I know I miss my dog. Big thanks to my parents for watching her.

Pre-thanksgiving post

2011-11-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

No sure if I will have time to post tomorrow... but lets see how things go.

- I think if I am not able to watch the Ravens/49ers tomorrow, I am going to be slightly miffed at the NFL network.

- I think traffic last night was a complete mess. At one point I think all of the Baltimore area highways were either stopped or crawling along at about 25 mph. Sigh.

- I think the weather is going to be interesting early next week. (though no snow thankfully form this recent weather)

- I think iPad and devices like it are a modern marvel, but I can't wait to see what my daughters use technology wise when they get in to middle & high school then college.

- I think the Black Friday adverts from todays paper are nothing to make me gawk and want to go out. Sorry stores, but nothing wowed me.

- I think I have done a decent job of separating myself from the U2 world over recent time, but I am glad of the timing- everything is VERY quiet. Yet somehow I still know they recently upgraded their Hanover recording studio, and looked over it last week for two days.

Off to finish up pre-Thanksgiving fun.

BBQ style weekend

2011-11-21T05:03:00.001-08:00

Smoked ham & turkey one night, beef brisket the next.

Life is good.

Let me explain- for the past, I don't how many, years friends put together a pre-Thanksgiving food fest. The first life of said food fest was food and drinks, staying up to the wee hours, and doing post college silly things. Now we are on to phase two the fest, which is still good food, but more kid slanted. Mine last until about 7:30 when daughter #1 melted down. Thank goodness they were close to our house for quick ride home. Back to the BBQ food- while walking to the front of their house I note the sweet smell of wood smoke. Not a regular fire, but BBQ indeed. Turns out, one of the fathers of the people at the house had been smoking a ham AND a turkey for about 8 hours that day. YUM.

Yesterday we had a pre-Thanksgiving mini fest to put up the Christmas tree. Wait wait wait... before you yell at me, we will not have time to put up the tree like we normally do. So chill out. So instead we had family over to help put it up, and I finally did my first BBQ brisket. While decent and SUPER tender, the flavor wasn't what I was hoping it would be. Might need more smoke flavor or something... *ponder*

In any case, I was full to my ears with yummy BBQ last night... *sigh* I don't know when I will get that much again anytime soon!

Things I think:

- I think this is a DARN good stuffing recipe.

- I think my fantasy football team went from winning big time to waking up behind by 7 points in no time flat. Youch.

- I think we will only find out what happened to Lee Evans AFTER the season, because this half a season out for a shady ankle injury doesn't pass the smell test.

- I think CHC will have to put their frustrations out on Loyola on Thanksgiving morning. Good job guys, tough loss.

- I think my buddy is coming back. Going to be an interesting couple months for him and his family, more likely an interesting next year as they figure out whats next.

- I think the idea of ProFootballFocus is pretty darn cool- rate the players on how they execute.

My fantasy football draft revisited

2011-11-18T05:08:00.001-08:00

So back on 8/29 my fantasy football draft occurred. (Read my post about the results here) I was feeling darn good about things, I felt I had a solid team and was looking forward to the season. Please note I successfully didn't like J. Charles, and I was very fearful of the injury bug which got me AGAIN this year. The only wrinkle to the league is that we start two QBs. Still confusing to me but whatever, it is what it is. I went back and looked at Failed picked and why, Blechs which are so-so results, and Wins that have turned out fabulous.

First is the number, which indicates which pick I got that player with, the name of the player, and the comment/result. Lets see shall we?

Fails:

#2 jammal charles (blown knee)

#4 reggie wayne (Manninged)

#6 mark ingram (waived)

#9 nate kading (blown knee)

#10 lee evans (wavied)

#11 michael bush (waived)

#12 jason campbell (blown out shoulder)

#13 LT (waived)

blech

#1 philip rivers (inconsistent as the ravens)

#3 kevin kolb (blech and traded)

#8 jets def (inconsistent, replaced by bengals def, THE BENGALS!)

#14 dustin keller (been on the bench)

wins:

#5 wes welker (who saw that coming?)

#7 jimmy graham (see above comment)

There are 14 picks in the draft, 8 are fails, 4 are bleches, and I have a grand total of 2 wins. Yup, thats my team. Yet somehow I am still in contention for a playoff spot. Go figure.

Where I have been able to find an inkling of redemption is in the Waiver wire and two late season trades. Thats all I got for you... I can't figure FF out to save myself, but I think thats how it goes. Luck, entirely luck of the draft with a remote possibility that you get lucky again with the waiver wire. This is how it goes for me:

- Players get hurt early in the season

- scramble to find replacements on the wire

- Get lucky with a player or two because other people don't have to scramble like me

- More players get hurt or don't perform mid season

- scramble to find MORE replacements on the wire

- Get desperate for players, ponder trade after trade

Things I think:

- I think this is kinda freaky, but if it floats their boats.

- I think I am glad I don't have a sweet tooth and like sour sugar.

- I think this is about right for a Presidental Bid.

- I think CHC needs as much luck as they can get tonight.

- I think it is interesting to see how many people still use their phones with their hands in the car while driving. However, see someone use their right hand to keep the phone on their left ear while driving on to a highway merge area takes it to a new level.

- I think this sums up my level of interest to anything Hollywood relationship wise.

- I think this is a very interesting move by Amazon if it proves true.

- I think I am still looking for a sponsor to this blog. Come on, I am dirt cheap- I just want enough to get a new home system. Is $750 too much to ask?! =)

New shoes?

2011-11-17T04:59:00.001-08:00

Last night was the big test- could we let daughter #2 "cry it out?" As it turns out, yes, yes we can. 'Only' took an hour. There was plenty of prep work- getting a music player in the room with a repeating CD of lullaby type via ROCKABYE BABY! At least we would have some decent recognizable music as we listened to her cry. This morning the adults of the house, more notably my wife, was much more rested than in the previous weeks due to being up for anywhere between 1-5 hours with baby.

I was thinking positive things this morning... baby slept. I was able to get ready without needing to keep an eye on baby. However, daughter #1 woke up at her normal time. I was really hoping she would oversleep her 'sheepie clock.' No such luck, no big thing. I can't be too disappointed, she is oh so cute and wonderful in the morning. I got to her room, said good morning, and as I got her out of bed, she said: "Daddy got new shoes."

I need to back peddle for a moment- I was wearing tennis shoes. It is a pair I had retired from active use when I got my new pair. However, I couldn't find that newer pair, and I wasn't hunting the house for them. So I got the old pair, and as they are still usable and aren't grass stained like others- off I went with my morning not thinking anything more of it.

However, to my daughter, they were new. She noticed, pointed it out, and made it sound extra cute. I am still shocked that she noticed.

So yes, this morning- daddy has 'new shoes.' Left me smiling for the rest of the day.

Things I think:

- I think I am almost out of the running for my fantasy football playoffs. Stupid rash of mass injuries. Most recently Matt Schaub, and I just got him in trade two weeks prior. *sigh*

- I think the brisket cut of meat I have found might be too lean for traditional BBQ. Considering adding some strips of bacon to keep the fat rolling along. (yes, everything is better with bacon, including BBQ'd brisket)

- I think I am in the worst physical shape of my adult life. (probably entire life)

- I think current on-line mapping sites with current traffic is a modern miracle at times.

- I think it is funny how 'fired up' the internet is about Facebook spam, really? Like we haven't been dealing with this since the dawn of email?

Shenanigans

2011-11-16T05:24:00.001-08:00

I am calling shenanigans on Parents magazine... or most "family" slanted magazines. I say that most advertisements are targets at women. If there is a man in the ad, it is almost by accident. Such as the Vicks advert with Drew Brees. Articles are slanted towards the moms and this is a magazine called "Parents."

I just looked over the December 2011 one, and while it does have men in the ads, none are targeted towards dads. There are plenty targeted towards moms, makeup, etc. I did notice an REI ad which made me smile... but over all, I am calling shenanigans. Why bother looking if the target audience is men? Why bother calling it "Parents" rather call it "Moms."

I just feel like it is misleading. Nicely placed, titled, but on follow through, not really representative of the name they portray. They know who generally picks up the magazines. They know who is buying it. (in our house, it was primarily for the coupons) They know who does the reading of the articles and by extension seeing the adverts.

Stop fooling yourself, and be sane about it.

That is all- shenanigans.

Things I think:

- I think Lego putting out sets like Fallingwater is an interesting move. Seems pointed towards the older crowd because 98% of the 7-14 year old crowd could care less about the importance of buildings in Lego. (unless it is something like a castle!)

- I think putting 8 cat stickers on your car is an official way of saying, "I am that crazy cat lady."

- I think my retro Os cap is not nearly as cool as it was two days ago.

- I think the CHC v. Gilman game for the MIAA championship is gonna be interesting. It is also going to be interesting to see how CHC responds either way playing less than a week later on the same field vs Loyola. Either they are champs and it doesn't matter 'as much' or they will be deflated from losing. I think it is a zero sum game for the Turkeyday game.

- I think most major retailers are avoiding the dieing White Marsh mall for some reason. A Kohls and a Maggiano's would be fabulous tenants to keep it from turning in to Golden Ring Mall.

- I think we will have a LOT more information and outcomes from the PSU scandal next year. For now, it is still too fresh and evolving day to day.

Going old school

2011-11-15T06:19:00.001-08:00

My home theater is down to just the TV sound. My trust, and relatively old, Sony receiver is dieing a very slow and painful death.

Now that I stop and realize it, I think I bought that back when I sold off my Magic collection. I had a very large and expensive collection. I also realize that the game is a pyramid scheme in terms of you must buy new to stay current to keep playing. This sell off had to be about 7-8 years ago now. Good grief. Considering how much I have used the system I think it served me VERY well. Through three houses, two TVs, and endless hours of crap/good programming.

I started to look in to replacement units. I figured, Sony has served me well in the past, lets see what they have now. I don't need anything super good, nor something super simple. (I think my current one is better than this) I think for about $200 or less, I can get more than I need now with a little wiggle room later. I like the idea of the receiver able to handle up to 3 HDMI inputs and channeling them to a single HDMI out. I like multiple inputs for my TiVo seriers 2, Wii, etc. And something that will power my old fashion 5.1 surround sound.

I am no movie snob, I don't take it too seriously. But I do like having that feeling that I am getting some good sound and video with my system. Something my family can enjoy for a few more years until the next revolution forces me to shell out more money. I am still feeling gun-shy after my TV purchase a couple years ago. Who knew the same TV could be had for a least a third the cost. *grumble*

For now though, I am going to watch TV in basic TV supported stereo sound. So old school, I know.

Things I think:

- I think daughter #2 is still struggling with sleep at night, however last night it was different... something HURT.

- I think I know some parents who will love this non-digital version of Angry Birds.

- I think All-Clad finally went out and is putting information out on the web about thier Factory Seconds sale. And they linked to my article regarding it. Kudos.

- I think I have no clue if Aldi is good or not, but in my mind they are between the Dollar Store and Safeway.

- I think if it snows next week, Mr. Foot's Forecast will look super-duper smart.

- I think having Nutella on toast is an easy and tasty breakfast.

- I think the Ravens are going to show if they deserve to be in the playoffs over the next two games or not.

- I think this is a little too close to the truth.

You can blame me

2011-11-14T04:54:00.001-08:00

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/peter_king/11/14/Week10/index.htmlI will admit it- I caused the Ravens to lose. Thats right, me. I didn't wear a Ravens jersey yesterday... instead, I sported my Johnny Unitas one. So if you want someone to blame for the bi-polar nature of the Ravens season, you can pin yesterday on me.

Thanks! (much easier than blaming the special teams in this case)

Then again, I didn't block, catch , run, coach, assist, tape an ankle, or otherwise directly or knowing indirectly affect anything Baltimore Raven. I suppose in some sort of metaphysical way I did, but reality is- all I did was wear a didn't certian style of clothing. In a community that is probably very slow to get going this morning, and very few are wearing purple unlike last Friday- I am the one you can throw rotten tomatoes at.

So, today is one of those days I am glad I can do my book on tape and not have to listen to sports talk. And there might be some sort of solace in that my fantasy team is winning big time. (as opposed to last week when they lost, but the Ravens won- I am always winning!)

Things I think:

- I think the drive in to work this morning was SUPER DOPER easy. Yippie!

- I think I would not survive a nuclear attack.

- I think heading out to the CHC football playoff game on a whim to shoot it turned out pretty well.

- I think the offer to off load the injured Andre Johnson has already paid off. Woot.

- I think it is funny to see some of the domains which hit on my blog for the All-Clad Seconds sale information. (I'm looking at you T-Fal and Ore-ida.)

- I think it will be interesting to see how Peter King comments on the Ravens. His Monday Morning QB should be posted in the next 15 minutes from this intial posting. (note, its already up before I finished writing my blog post.)

- I think I am so glad I don't have the 125 mile round trip to work like I heard one person takes every day.

- I think it is a great then when Daughter #2 sleeps through the night, whew!

- I think it was great to make cookie with Daughter #1 last night. =)

Morning travel mug

2011-11-10T05:40:00.001-08:00

During my morning commute, I see other motorists with travel mugs. I have one as well, it is a several year old Dunkin' Donut travel mug that my wife used. I look much like everyone else that is commuting to work and sipping their favorite beverage. However, I think I might be different than most folks out there. (go figure)

What percentage of the morning commuters are drinking coffee? I am guess 90% plus. Thats probably too low...

What percentage do you think are drinking a mug of tea? I am guessing 1%. I am that 1% (look at my political slant!)

So it makes me wonder, if I am doing it... maybe 1% might be too little. But still- I am a tea drinker, never been a coffee guy- ever. If I got through college, grad school, and two kids without drinking it, I am safe I think.

Top two favorite places to buy tea: Tea location #1 Tea location #2

I honestly would avoid this mall tea shop. VERY snooty, very expensive... heard some crap stories about employee reactions. Thats not what I think about tea.

Things I think:

- I think ouch, yet true. (also a famous Who lryic)

- I think I don't know what about the PSU crap. Seriously... I tried to read the grand jury report and nearly threw up. But at the same time, there are much bigger brighter minds working/thinking about this. (ok, a lot of dumber ones too) It is going to take PSU years and years to recover.

- I think seeing a three year (am assuming a boy) old at a grocery store at 8:30pm, very dirty, with a single ear ring has the odds stacked against him in life.

- I think thats good to know.

- I think it is about time to get some coverage for this Sunday's game. Still not much however.

Slowly getting there...

2011-11-09T05:08:00.001-08:00

Daughter #2 has decided this entire daylight savings is for the birds. Ok... problem being, mom or dad need to be with her during the WEE morning for several hours. This is no fun for mom or dad because OUR bedtimes are pushed forward to say- 8:30 because we are so darn tired from being up so darn early.

We have kept to the say schedule, same eating routines. Nothing else has changed from a schedule/time prospective, except that she doesn't want to sleep in.

There has been some slight progress however- Sunday she was up at 3:30, Monday at 3:35, Tuesday at 4, and today at 4:45. So there is hope yet that tomorrow that she will sleep in to say 5 or even 5:15. (knock on wood)

The fun part is when I tag in that I am trying to do both entertain her and get ready in the morning. I do stuff like unload the dishwasher, and get dressed... all the while making sure she isn't in trouble and smiling for the most part. I have noticed as she sleeps more, she is less likely to break down as the morning progresses.

So all things considered- this is again, one of those things I wouldn't have known/done unless I was a dad. Fun!

(Anyone want to fund an Au Pair for us?!)

Things I think:

- I think the AWF's Got Water? fundraiser auction is awesome. Check it out, and maybe bid on some stuff. Hopefully I can help out again next spring in some capacity for the Build a Well for Bono's Birthday fundraiser again.

- I think using EZ-pass is great, however when an elderly couple stops in the EZ-pass lane and don't move because they seem confused on why no one is in the toll booth... *ugh*

- I think it is a sign of interest when I am trying to get a grasp on the Seattle Seahawks vs the Ravens this weekend and coming up empty on the Seahawks. Best information is midseason awards.

- I think I am glad I don't live in Alaska right about now.

- I think this is about as stupid as I can think of. Really folks? If I was a parent of the 'losing' school, I would be complaining to the administration about how disgusted I was about the school's complaint and involvement. Blech.

- I think I underestimate the rumor mill.

Short one

2011-11-08T04:52:00.001-08:00

Don't have a lot of time this morning... so straight to the Things I think:

- I think daughter #2 is still on pre-daylight savings schedule. Doh.

- I think it is still crazy that applying an antacid to a canker sore will help heal it... but so glad it does.

- I think listening to sports talk on a Monday after a win should be banned for my vehicle because I don't even want to think about it on days after a loss.

- I think getting the Windsor knot was more complicated than reality.

- I think there are plenty of times I am both glad and sad that I don't have much of a yard to worry about.

- I think there are too many audio books and I'd rather not have to listen to them during my commute. What a vexing problem.

NFL and everything else

2011-11-07T05:07:00.001-08:00

Ravens thinking:

- I think even though my fantasy football team scored the third highest points in the league this weekend, and lost... I don't care. The Ravens beat the Steelers. =)

- I think my prediction last Friday actually was damn close to the real score. Go me... I won't mention times I was wrong. ;^)

- I think the schedule is funky this year- it is Nov 7th, and the Ravens are done with the Steelers but need to play the Bengals and Browns four times collectively in eight games. Half their remaining games? and no Steelers, feels very... ummm- weird.

- I think the Ravens have been solely built around beating the Steelers... now, can they actually play the rest of the NFL? Thats up for grabs.

- I think Lee Evans needs to get healthy like yesterday. Come on man!

- I think I need to keep reminding myself that Torey Smith is a rookie. WRs take 2-3 years before they are reliable and solid, not rookies.

- I think Ben Grubbs return was huge, much larger than anyone on the broadcast even hinted at. He allowed McKinnie to worry about himself and not the guard slot with a career center playing guard instead- it showed. While he did get beat now and then, he wasn't a rotating door.

- I think I could go for a Ravens fleece "sweat" shirt.

Non-football things I think:

- I think daughter #1 took an epic nap for her yesterday- nearly three hours. Then to the swings for one set, and she was ready to come home. I know she isn't feeling well when either of them happens, but both?!

- I think I need to give major props to "Sheepie clock" for helping daughter #1 adjust to the time change. Nicely done!

- I think my first floor still needs to be vacuumed. So much dog hair.

- I think, while the new Canon flagship camera body is made of gold, I would rather invest that $6,800 it would cost to get the money in lenses.

- I think the rumors of U2's demise are greatly exaggerated. They won't even consider re-forming for new material for the next two years if everything goes to plan... they might get together for a tribute or award of some sort but thats it.

- I think I don't need the re-release of Achtung Baby in any form. About the only material I am missing are the Baby songs and a handful of previously unreleased. Don't need the two CDs worth of remixes I already have.

- I think I was completely WHOOPED Friday night, was asleep by 9pm.

- I think daughter #2 is figuring out how to stay asleep at night, which is no fun for parents.

- I think these are just fantastic on a morning sandwich with an egg and cheese. Yum, and yum. (surpising side fact, they are own by Kellogs.)

- I think I need to find some super cheap source for the Neti Pot refills. Anyone have a recommendation other than the normal sources? (ebay, craigslist)

An extremely noteworthy week

2011-11-04T05:15:00.001-07:00

There are small things that might occur now-and-then that show progress. These are often noticed, but not really super commented on because they minor progress points. This week has been completely different. There have so many large step forwards in development of a kid in one week, just wowzers.

Here is a semi-bullet list:

- Sleeping on a 'big girl' bed, ok ok, it was an areobed at the Poconos over the weekend. (new place, and new sleeping arrangements)

- Being a flower girl at the wedding

- Dancing for about 2.5 hours

- Potty thing, see two posts ago.

(prepare yourself for this one if you know my child)

- And the most amazing thing of the entire week happened yesterday: she decided that she was done with her pacifiers. All done. She said good bye to them, and that was it. She fell asleep for the first time in, I don't think it had ever happened, without them. Sure she did some whining about needing them, but she did fall asleep and stayed asleep all night without them.

About a month or so ago, my wife came up with the idea of a place to put her pacifiers during the day. So she only got them during "naps" (afternoon and at night) Successful! But since she was a couple months old, she has ALWAYS needed her pacifiers to go to sleep and sooth herself. A safety net. But yesterday's nap was the cut off point.

Wife and I plan to continue to make a big deal out of her being such a big girl and giving her so much praise about it. She LOVES that... so we shall see how it all goes.

Since the break out of language use after the age of two, and finally being pretty much fully potty trained (it isn't like balloons and streams came down to mark the event), this is one of those weeks that progress was FIRMLY made and amazing to see it occur all at once.

Things I think:

- I think Canon is moving right along, but to move in to cinema recording allowing adapters of two different lenses (one or the other, not both) AND throwing in 4K video. Well done. However, I still don't care about video cameras like I do still ones.

- I think it was funny to see a Chevy Volt pulled over by the Police. Still not sure why though.

- I think forgetting my wallet and running extremely low on gas is not a peaceful combination.

- I think this will be discussed at unreasonable length for some time.

- I think the home team in the NFL is automatically a 3 pt favorite until skill and ability are applied to the teams playing. I have nothing to back this up with, but it seems fair and right to me.

- I think Ravens 25, Steelers 21. Though I am not very confident in that, my homer is totally showing.

Things I think

2011-11-03T05:05:00.001-07:00

No big thoughts today...

- I think I haven't touched my Philmont page in a long while. About three years... yikes.

- I think I missed a chance to party like a palindrome yesterday based on the date: 11022011.

- I think it is odd to consider that Avalon Hill is part of Hasbro, the same owners of Magic the Gathering.

- I think I just checked my care o' meter about the Orioles, and this is the result.

- I think the talk about the Ravens backup status have disappeared since the pre-season. Kinda surprised they haven't bubbled up at all since the recent struggles offensively, where is all the 'love' for Tyrod Taylor?

- I think if I were to get a new Ravens jersey, it would be for Terrel Suggs.

- I think there is something soothing about driving on a newly paved road.

2011-11-02T05:23:00.001-07:00

Never thought something as minor as going to the bathroom all by yourself would be such a huge deal... but for a two year old- it is.

Let me explain.

I was with both girls last night, daughter #1 was playing with sticky notes about 4 feet away and I was on the floor with daughter #2. I turn and hear the dauther #1 in the bathroom... I get up and ask her if she is ok and what is going on. I look in to the bathroom, a room she normally has her own little potty, and she had:

- pulled the step up to the 'big potty'

- successfully pulled pants and underwear down

- put the big potty cover up

- put the little seat on potty

- sat down

- was going potty

- announced as I saw her "I am going on the big girl potty!"

ALL BY HERSELF without help, and most importantly, she knew she had to go and wanted to do that.

I was shocked, just shocked and happy. I made such a big deal out of it, she did the same thing about 3-4 more times after she was done. I kept praising her and making a deal out of it. She was so happy and pleased that she wanted to keep doing it.

I've heard of different reward methods like stickers for pottying, or whatever... but for daughter #1 and last night, just having me excited and praise for her was more than enough for her. I couldn't have been more proud. Such a little thing like knowing she had to go potty, and going on the big potty all by herself is such a big thing for her... just wow.

Thats right, its one of those things I wouldn't have noticed/known unless I was a dad.

Things I think:

- I think I need to listen to myself in the morning commute realm- *sigh*

- I think over the next two weeks I will see a large influx of candy at work due to parents unloading the hordes of leftover sugar they don't want their kids to keep going back to.

- I think pointing out everything a house could possibly have done/wrong is a good thing, but paranormal activity?!

- I think I haven't played my Wii in a couple months, how do I know? It hasn't been in my house. I haven't missed it sadly. However, I might bring it back soon.

- I think I if I was in college now-a-days, I would be on Facebook a ton. Then again, I would also have have wi-fi in the basecamp of Philmont and be able to so easily communicate that life would have been different for me. A phone with GPS to track my hiking... *sigh* Has there not been a better time in the world's history for ease of communication?

- I think I still miss Lost. Wife and I are trying to latch on to Once A Upon A Time, so far a struggle.

- I think I am not missing out on anything by not having the re-release of U2's 20th anniversary package for Acthung Baby. I am a little shocked there was no promo material associated with it. (still confiriming)

Halloween

2011-11-01T05:14:00.001-07:00

So it was daughter #2's first Halloween, she was a super cute bumblebee. She didn't even care about the costume.

Daughter #1 however was Minney Mouse, which seems to be a VERY popular character. I saw two others last night and heard of two co-workers daughters who were Minney as well. No clue it was so popular. She loved going around, getting candy, seeing all the other kids, and having fun. Even more interesting was that she saw one of her old day care roommates. The funny thing was that they barely spoke but because of the enviroment and costumes it was odd for them. Still funny though.

Last night's fun felt very cool... it was twilight, geese were honking and flying, lots of kids running around getting candy... it felt like what Halloween should be like if I was in a movie.

There was a neighborhood party, which was fabulous... and I am very proud to point out that Daughter #1 snacked mostly on cucumbers and apples. I didn't care that she downed a hotdog and a juicebox. (sometime treats)

It was interesting to see how the age levels of kids responded to our treat- containers of Play-Doh. Younger kids were exicited... however one kid, 7-8 said, "I remember this stuff!" Ha.

One house was giving out FULL size Tastykake packages! Holymoly... guess who is gonna eat a three pack of Koffee Kakes for a snack today- THIS GUY!

Lastly, I was super jealous of one kid who had a huge sack SUPER full of candy- though I think he double dipped at some houses who put treats out on the honor system.

Things I think:

- I think I don't know if I like Google Reader's new style. *sigh*

- I think I have moved on from my previous job as I finally dropped User Friendly from my Reader list.

- I think the Ravens will be using the shotgun a lot more vs Steelers, but with most of their starting LB group on the DL for this weekend... I think the Steelers will be still making Flacco scramble.

- I think Sierra the dog was rather ticked at me yesterday after getting home, no walk, not much attention... but then again, I think she was recovering from a weekend of being outside the entire time. She doesn't get to do that much at our house.

- I think the new toll rates stink... commuter rates or not- *hrump*

- I think Dr. Caret will do some good stuff, good luck.

- I think Dr. Clements is already doing some good stuff.

- I think it was a very good time when I did work at Towson U, as both of the above were on the administration. Good luck to the next phase of the University.

- I think the weekend of parties and dancing caught up with Daughter #1, she took two naps yesterday for a total of 4 hours, and was still VERY tired this morning when I left for work.

- I think it will be interesting to see how today goes after snapping my shoelace this morning.

Life in a snowglobe

2011-10-31T05:25:00.001-07:00

Got back from a weekend wedding up in the Poconos yesterday. "Vhat a weekend!" We had been looking at the chance of snow up there most of the week, but until Friday night we had no idea how much to expect- 8-12 inches. YIKES. We were certain as of Saturday morning that the outdoor wedding was scratched and the indoor version was on. Which was good for our fingers and toes, but the site of an outdoor snow wedding would have looked cool...

First, the place we stayed was PERFECT. A cabin on the lake. It was like a hotel in the woods with tons of space, great views, and just fabulous. I wish we could rent that place for a week in the summer for vacation. Would be fabulous. (has AC too!)

Nothing like looking out the front windows and porch for a fabulous lake view. Only thing that would have sealed it for me completely- internet access. Say free wi-fi in the cabin. *sigh*

Wife and I were in a bit of a bind because of the little ones. We had hoped that daughter #1, also the flower girl!!!, would take a decent nap Saturday. I spent about an hour trying to convince her to nap, but had to to resort to putting her in the big bed with me so she would calm down enough to snooze. Daughter #2 was with my wife at the hair place getting things all done up. Daughter #1 turned in a nearly epic nap clocking in at over 2 hours. Amazing!

Wedding! The wedding itself was great, very short service as the bride and groom had officially been hitched a year ago due to military obligations. This was more of a celebration of them and their accomplishments, and well, an official celebration than the 'quickly' the previous August. It was great to see a group of folks having so much fun the entire time.

Due to the snow coming down, the location we were in made everything feel like a snow. Big windows, lots of snow, the facility was well maintained. Kudos all around.

Daughter #1 just danced, and danced, and danced. She LOVED IT. Had some streamers in her hand, watched others, and just kept at it. Well over an hour an a half. She loved it so much she didn't want to take he dress off when it was time to go to bed. =)

Drive back home was decent, and as it is with two wee-ones, a four hour drive took five hours. We did stop for a solid Mexican dinner in Harrisburg.

The only down side to the weekend, daughter #2 is having some issues sleeping at night. Not sure why. Last night my holding her caused her to scream bloody murder... only mommy would calm her. It took well over an hour and a half to snooze again. Same thing for the previous two nights. *ugh*

Things I think:

- I think the Ravens offensive line is in for a world of hurt if they don't right the ship. NFL defenses smell blood in the water.

- I think the Ravens/Steelers game this weekend will show two teams going in opposite directions, as opposed to the first match-up. *sigh*

- I think I tried so hard not to even smell the Ravens outcome before I could watch the recording and failed 45 minutes before I was going to watch it. Damnit, damnit, damnit.

- I think Kevin Kolb with a helmet on looks like British comedian Eddie Izzard.

- I think today is Larry Mullen Jr's birthday. Happy 50th, you act and look like a 33 year old.

- I think I will be taking MANY more photos of the kids tonight for Halloween. Hopefully it is a tad warmer so they can look extra cute outside.

- I think Steve Jobs was many things, but a saint wasn't one of them. He is quickly being enshrined in to something modern day holy.

- I think getting back up to speed on news and events is harder than it used to be after a weekend away.

Just the opporunity

2011-10-27T05:21:00.001-07:00

Right now I am staring down a chance, a sliver, of something I never thought possible. Something outside of what I could have dreamed about. Something, well... something I dare not mention in the chance it might not come true. (That way there was no real record of it happening.)

While I am too excited about it, I also know there is a good chance it may never come about. So I am reserving my mental outlook for the complete chance that it never happened.

But to expose myself to something extraordinary, just that sliver of "holy crap, I can do what?!" is something I am at least exploring for the moment. As I have read and agree with, "opportunity favors the prepared."

Can't say anything else about it, but know this- if it does come true, I will be covered in pinch marks to make sure I am not dreaming.

Things I think:

- I think it is amazing to hear an early release of U2's AB "kinder-garden" version of the album. Combine that with the AB Outtakes and the From the Sky Down movie, it is the closet any of us has been allowed to get to the complete recording process that U2 goes through.

- I think it is amazing to know that daughter #2 can fall asleep sitting up in her crib.

- I think getting rebates in the mail are a MAJOR pain.

- I think that is one of the coolest Halloween costumes ever.

- I think whom ever was the first person to cook an egg on a waffle iron was either in an extreme hurry or did it my accident.

- I think having the Big East look at either Boise St or Air Force is silly. The NCAA has a huge mess on its hands, and thats just conferences. Lets not even talk about players compensation, a true national championship, or prospects/recruiting.

we?

2011-10-25T05:16:00.001-07:00

So I was all ready to write up a depressing recap of the Ravens AWFUL game last night. How it was so depressing that Joe Flacco completed a pass to himself for negative yards... that Ray Rice was shown sitting on the bench by himself while the offense was playing... how the Ravens didn't even get a first down in the first half of play!

Then I read this.

It makes me glad that on days like this, I have audio books for the commute and I have a choice NOT to listen to sports talk. However, I know over the next five years or so, this GAWD awful game will haunt the Ravens fanbase and likely will crush the collective mental outlook for the rest of the season.

If the Jaguars can do that... ugh.

Just ugh.

Off to the rest of my life.

Things I think:

- I think the new Canon flashship body's top ISO of 204,000 is, well, crazy.

- I think I was never a fan of snowball fights as a kid, and this makes me less so as an adult.

- I think if I was ever to join Netflix, now might be a bad time. Lets see if they have any deals to entice new people.

- I think my opinion of Roku dropped a tad when I learned it isn't as easy to pull your own media from another computer as I thought it was. WD Live does.

- I think my delicious plans to make brisket has been sidelined by easy availablitly of said cut of beef and the pricing.

2011-10-24T04:49:00.001-07:00

I had no idea that Jerusalem Mill was such the photographers hangout... the family went up yesterday morning, a perfect fall day, to take some snaps. While there, my wife ran in to a friend who was waiting for her next set of subjects for her photography side business. I saw students taking photos, an egagement shoot, and a van full of people asked us where the falls were so they could photograph it. There were also two other families walking around having family shots taken. The one that took the cake though was a 10 month old, am guessing at that, for photos. It had a cape, A CAPE, for photos... and the family brought a complete set up of a bale of hay, mums, pumpkins, etc to set the scene. Seriously.

In the mean time, I am still shocked I haven't gotten much time to ever go out to this location for photos. Seriously- how have I NOT gone out there before? The vintage 1800s baseball alone should have gotten me out there! (events) They even have a covered bridge for goodness sake.

Will have to do more investigating for photos in the future. Good grief.

Things I think:

- I think when I went to bed at the Saints/Colts half time that my fantasy team was up by a meager 5 points. Woke up this morning to a 29 point lead. Thanks Saints!

- I think Yahoo's attempts to drum up new views of adverts after sending email is awful, just awful.

- I think I still don't care about professional baseball.

- I think I would want an ultra-light (both in weight and OS) net/note/lap book. Something that is super sturdy, has a very long lasting battery, full keyboard, and minimal functions. Sorta like the Chromebook, but I dunno... A Macbook Air with the pricing of Chromebook. Yeah, thats it.

- I think having daughter #2 wake up at 4:15 is no fun for anyone... but at least she didn't wake up in the middle of the night.

- I think I am still waiting for a blog sponser so I can get a new home computer. *cough* Doesn't even have to be that much... say $600. =) I can take my current system and make it a NAS.

- I think Halloween is still a holiday I have never really enjoyed.

- I think sneaking in a nap on a Saturday when totally unexpected in wonderful.

All-Clad seconds sale, Dec 2+3 2011

2011-10-21T06:40:00.001-07:00

They just posted the dates for the Seconds Sale:

http://www.washingtonfair.org/html/expo_events.html

December 2nd and 3rd. (yes, Friday and Saturday)

9am to 4pm.

Directions: http://www.washingtonfair.org/html/directions.html

My original post on this. (tips, information based on my two trips)

Good luck to everyone going!

On Occupy

2011-10-21T05:17:00.001-07:00

(warning, rant ahead)

One of the things that annoys me about people's impressions or ideas about this Occupy movement in the US is that it is democracy in action.

I say no sir, it is not.

The ability to peacefully gather, demonstrate, and speak your mind is a RESULT of democracy. What they are doing is exercising their rights to gather and freedom of speech. Democracy is ugly, slow, and is a lot of work. Democracy is not a catch phrase on a piece of cardboard.

Lets look at the relativity of this as well:

- Do most Americans have to spend most of their day worrying about where they are going to get clean water from?

- Do you think $10,000 a year is WAY too little?

- What first world problems are we thinking are the worst things ever?

- Do we need to fear a dictator that will squash rebellions? That we live in fear or flee to someplace, hopefully, better? (I am not counting the conspiracy theoriests)

Things in the US aren't THAT bad folks! We have a system in place that allows for change. That if you are willing to work for it, it has a chance. If you can convince a bunch of other people in the same system, then you can enact that change. Its an amazing place. Think about that, just the vehical for some sort of change is in place- even as daunting as the task is, it is THERE.

The problem is- people are hard wired to like the easy choice. Simple is much easier than complex to understand. Clicking Like on a page or posting a Tweet entry in "support" doesn't fix anything. It takes time, energy, drive, understanding, communication, convincing, and about 15 other things to get things to change.

I applaud those who have stuck out the current Occupy movement at Wall Street, even if it was an ad-campaign at first.

However- if they do nothing else, all is for naught. If revolution, and dare I say anarchy, are the true goals- then you have missed the entire idea of what the great American Experiment has setup to allow. We ain't perfect folks, however catch phrases and nifty little systems like the human microphone ain't solving anything. Simply raging against the machine might feel good in the short time, the real question is- whats next? Are these ideas going to be simply rolled in to a talking point by a politician or is the SLOW and PAINFUL process of working in the system to exact change the real next step?

Work is hard.... I don't pretend to know it all, but I know we have a system in place to allow it. Be thankful.

Be the change you want.

(end of rant)

Things I think:

- I think three cups of tea in the morning is one too many.

- I think the world isn't gonna end today. (again)

- I think this week's Modern Family wasn't that good. Its painful to say, but true.

- I think getting a book in the mail that you have the cover photo on is just still darn cool. And two months before it will be released. Hehe. However, the price of the book- YIKES.

Fast!

2011-10-18T05:04:00.001-07:00

Daughter #1 loves to go to the swings near our house. Loves it.

We have slowly progressed from a carry/walk... to complaining about walking, to enjoying the walk, to running, to now quickly running. To the point where i have to walk quickly to keep pace. Thats from an almost 2.5 year old!

And last night before dinner- she ran almost the entire way there! Not a long walk, but great for getting out and doing stuff.

I was even as impressed as she told this other little girl her name and then asked, "whats your name?" She was being outgoing and personable.

Then again, she also didn't want to leave the playground. Even after giving a little ground of "this is the last thing we are doing before going home for dinner." So thats the life of a 2 year old!

Things I think:

- I think I might have to make a batch of these. (I am now hungry for second breakfast)

- I think seeing the reslts of car vs. deer first thing in the morning is highly disturbing.

- I think I really don't care, not one bit, about the entire post game "handshake" between two NFL coaches. whatever.

- I think I am going to try out the tip of running "NoScript" at home to see if it stops the Sun's paywall. Sounds logical as the site allows the page to intially load then pulls up some code to 'block' viewing and returns you to the homepage. In theory it ought to work!

- I think I figured out an IE work around from above- add the website as an untrusted site and it seems to stop the extra code from loading. So far so good. May block video and extra goodies, but I don't ever use those functions from the site.

- I think Canon is up to releasing a new wave of camera bodies. The new flagship body is out. Next, the 5D MIII.

- I think at the rate we are going, we will all need some sort of anti-malicious code protection for our home appliances in no time.

DC Zoo

2011-10-17T05:16:00.001-07:00

So the family went downt to visit DC on Saturday. One of the focuses was the DC Zoo, which I don't know if I had ever been to before. Honestly, I can't recall. I very well could have gone as a child, but I have NO recollection of going ever before.

First my major complaint about the zoo- it is a huge one way path, either up hill the entire way or down hill the entire way. (depending on how you approach it) For families with youngings in it, painful. I don't even want to think about visiting said zoo in DC's July heat. YUCK.

And now my major props- it is a really nice zoo. They are upgrading the facilities big time. The animal pens are well laid out. There was plenty of space to walk around even with the numbers of people, and we had a double wide stroller. And you can't beat the price- free.

Highly recommend it if the weather is nice and you have some time, comforable shoes, and aren't affraid to walk.

Side note- I felt very common place with my Canon 7D with the 70-200mm lens on. There were several others sporting similar or better setups. I was a little surprised to be honest. There was even a trio at the tiger pen with 300mm-400mm lenses complete with tripods camped out looking for that perfect shot of the tiger. Here is hoping most folks there loved photography and weren't just sporting the gear because it was hip and pricey as a show piece.

Things I think:

- I think the NFL's 4pm east coast based games suck. Though when the kids get older, they might rock.

- I think my fantasty football team is snake bitten this year- damn. Oh well, it happens.

- I think the Thanksgiving Day game between the Ravens and 49ers is shaping up to be MUCH bigger than anyone expected. (feels a bit like a storm forming)

- I think thats just wrong.

- I think there is something just magical about a new set of socks. Thank you Costco for selling four pairs of merino wool socks for $12. Smartwool sells ONE pair for that price. (and yes, the Costco set wear VERY well) It is a seasonal thing.

- I think having a 9 month old with a second cold in 3 weeks is bad. My wife is a saint for getting up in the middle fo the night with the wee one. I've tried and the baby yells even worse when I hold her, hand her off to mom and quiets down. *sigh*

- I think I sleep through most everything- good and bad at times. (see above)

- I think I am visiting the Baltimore Sun less... I am hesitant to visit, pondering if the article I want is behind the paywall or not.

- I think Yahoo mail made some upgrades to their mailing system. There is an in-message reply box now- kinda cool. I think.

- I think I need to find a grocery store that sells brisket, cause Safeway near me didn't.

- I think the Roku LT is going on my Christmas list.

Photography

2011-10-14T04:58:00.001-07:00

Just a brief post here:

I realized yesterday that I have very little formal training with my photography. I took a grand total of ONE college class back in the days of film. I spent more time in the dark room than I ever did trying to find good photos to take. That annoyed me.

Since I got in to the digital age of photography, I have never paid for photography related classes, seminars, get-togethers, talks, workshops, etc. Everything I have learned is via experience, inspiration, listening and watching others, and generally gleaning off everyone else. I am usually ticked at work I produced a year prior. I have a hard time sometimes capturing the image I see in my mind's eye. Sometimes I can edit the photo to a respectable state, often not.

In any case, I'd rather learn by doing. I am a big fan of the "monkey see, monkey do" school rather than the book/class/pay method of photography. If someone has a case of why I should be shelling out bucks for learn' instead of doing, contact me.

Meanwhile, I gotta prep for hopefully a possible big day of photographic chances tomorrow.

Things I think:

- I think it is time to admit it- I wore a Dora band-aid last night. *sigh*

- I think Zits nailed it.

- I think it is time for a new tea-pot, my old trusty Bodum one met it's untimely end yesterday in a sink accident. Thankfully the glass was all contained in said sink.

- I think Amazon is muss'd up- I did a search for prices on Bodum tea press, selected popular, and the first page was all coffee presses. *wth?!*

- I think digital assets is a real issue for those considering wills.

- I think there is nothing better than having a child 'oversleep' at this stage in their life. When it happens to both of mine on the same day, WHOA-NELLY!

- I think Ravens 25 Texans 10.

Sick days

2011-10-13T05:02:00.001-07:00

I know I said I wouldn't talk about health stuff, and I am sticking to it. However, I am going on a slightly different slant here.

I needed to stay home yesterday due to other family members health. No details from me here.

It make me think- how many days have I taken off for my OWN personal, my body's, sickness? I honestly am not sure, probably not that many in total. I am also sure there are several days that I looked back and went, 'maybe I should have stayed home that day...'

In my previous job as a State employee... I worked professionally for about 11.5 years. When I departed the State's employement, I had over 100 sick days I left there. If I had planned better, I should have burned a bucket load for other things, but I didn't. What made me disappointed was that work would not allow me to transfer, give, cash in, or otherwise do something with said sick days. I even called and asked the State, "how long are those days good for if I would to come back to work for the State?" The answer was three years. I would have to go back within three years or they just *poof!* vanish.

That made me sick. There was a co-worker/cancear who was stricken with a very agressive cancer. He was a contract employee, then hired on full time. Great guy, but when he got sick, he was super short changed. No one could donate to his sick bank, no matter how hard we pleaded in trying to help him out.

That SUCKED.

So when I look at my sick leave now- which is a tiny total due to two little ones at home, I look at it as time to spend with them. To help them. Based on my previous performance levels, I rarely take time for myself to apply sick days. Hopefully I can get back up to a reasonable amount of sick leave again, but if I get up over 100 days again, I've been here too long.

Things I think:

- I think the dude doing the blender demo at Costco was full of it when he said strawberry stems had more vitiamin C than the berry. Thats right, he said it.

- I think Chilis has an awsome hamburger on their hands- the Hatch Chili cheeseburger. I can't stop thinking about it. (warning- it is messy)

- I think Clarks shoes need to work on waterproofing. They are great, just not in the elements which is no fun.

- I think the Baltimore Sun will see a lot less eyeballs on their website now that the paywall is up.

- I think I don't watch America's Test Kitchen enough. I found EXACTLY how I want to do my brisket.

- I think I spent a whole 5 seconds over this question- "Do I care about the Orioles?" Was a pretty easy answer- nope.

- I think the board game Gears of War was MUCH better than I expected. I really liked the idea of tieing your health to your hand size. Unique mechanic.

Reflections of a Monday

2011-10-11T07:02:00.001-07:00

So my wife went and visited a close friend yesterday, great!

Happy I could help out at home watching the girls. They are usually great to hang around and have fun with. Notice I put usually.

On a positive side note- the youngest is sleeping through the night again. Woot.

Back to the Monday. I was able to get a special lunch of Andy Nelsons yesterday, which is saying something because the round trip was 45 minutes even calling in the order ahead of time. (I still think they need to expand to my neck of the woods- come on! Someone open a good BBQ place near me!) They off went wife, and the fun began. Daughter #1 and I had "planned" to make some special cupcakes for my wife. It was something we looked forward to do together. However, daughter would not take a nap- at all.

I checked in on her, took care of some potty issues… back in the room… still no sleep. Another 30 minutes later I took her to the grocery store to get the missing items for our cupcakes. Explained to her what we were trying to do, and all the things she would miss out on if she didn't nap. I let her stay in her crib for at least an hour. She then managed to throw everything out, including a box of clothes within arm's reach.

I finally gave up, went up, cleaned up the mess, and brought her downstairs. We talked, and I got the cupcake making prepped. She was VERY excited to help make these. Her apron was on, the mixer was going, and daughter #2 started her "I'm tired!" crying. Fantastic. One kid won't go to sleep, the other needs to go to sleep in the middle of making cupcakes. That's the way it is. Older daughter is relocated to watching Curious George (her current favorite show) while I got other one down. Then back to cupcakes and baking…then older daughter's favorite part- icing the cupcakes. In our case, using Neutella. That's right, I know you are jealous now. We made Neutella cupcakes.

Dinner was made- daughters were in a good mood. One had a good nap, the other was surprisingly in a decent mood considering no nap. I got my laundry started, first load of two dishes started. We even went outside and played chalk when mom came home. She was very surprised at the treat waiting
for her.

Oh, and did I mention that my older daughter only had an hour nap on Sunday? And oh, I was home with her for that fun too? That's right, two days in a row I was home watching the girls and she had napped for a grand total of one hour. Thank goodness the baby sleeps at night again.

Thinks I think:

- I think I am really going to enjoy the new project for This Old House. I grew up with the show, and am always excited by a new full project to follow. I am a geek.

- I think looking back at a video of my older daughter from just under a year ago is mind melting a tad. Prospective is an amazing thing.

- I think going to the Gunpowder three days in a row for Sierra is overwhelming. Haven't seen her this wiped out in a long while.

- I think I have no idea why the Ravens are playing a 4:15 game at HOME this Sunday. Really? Stupid network tv.

- I think I need to barbeque up some brisket. Never done it before, but I love it when it is done well. (I am drooling just thinking about it) After reading this, I have no problems with the Texas crutch. (thanks Brian!)

- I think I have no idea when I will get a 'real' vacation again. One where I relax and not worry about something for a day. Might be after the kids are in college at this rate.

- I think if I had a spare $100, I would buy a Roku or WD Live box.

- I think it is time to buy U2's 360 Rose Bowl blu-ray. Figure on Amazon I can pick up a used one really cheap.

Monday

2011-10-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

Just a few things I think for today:

I think I am most comfortable when I have a backpack on my back for hiking. There is something very comforting with it on.
I think this is just amazing.
I think my oldest daughter doesn't like to nap for me.
I think Kevin Kolb is my fantasy football albatross. Not that I would have much of a chance without him, but two seasons in a row I have been hosed by him.
I think yesterday, a Sunday, in Baltimore was boring- what I think the area was like during the time between the Colts leaving and Ravens arriving.

pocket dictionary

2011-10-07T05:42:00.001-07:00

Back in my undergrad college days, I bought a pocket dictionary. Why? Because I am a horrible speller, and it might be helpful when I had to take written tests. I have kept it in my shoulder bag since then. I am on my second one, and it is still there.

The irony is, I can't remember ever using it. No seriously.

I have carried around this little book over who knows how many miles, and have no clue why I still do.

Let me put it this way, the copywrite on the book is 1989. I know I didn't buy it then, but when I got to college. Still- thats insane. I've had the darn thing for over 15 years and never used it. I think it is time to retire it. Little less weight, little more room... and lets face it, the only real writing I do is on this blog. Otherwise, just about everything I write except for handwritten notes has some form of spellcheck built in- THANK YOU TECHNOLOGY!

Things I think:

- I think this map of predictions for the winter is pretty much a "this is how it should be all the time." Seriously... When I think of winter in the US, thats how I envision it.

- I think Buddhism is a bit more complicated than I made it out to be.

- I think by the time I get home today, the Calvert Hall v. Gilman game will already be decided. Would have been an awsome game to see.

- I think the Ravens bye week gives me a nice opporunity to wear my Johnny Unitas throwback jersey.

- I think I still don't understand or get the "Occupy" movement. It is really starting to feel like a socialism sort of thing.

- I think I still need to cut my grass at home.

- I think in three weeks I will be in my last wedding party. This will be only be my third one, exluding my own, that I have been in.

hard to imagine

2011-10-06T05:05:00.001-07:00

Alright, I will admit it- I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for Steve Jobs. There- happy?

Let me explain- back in the day, way back, when I was in middle school, my family aquired an Apple II. Not my first exprience with a computer, but the first one we owned outright. It was my dad's way of showing us what we needed to succed I think. We even got a printer, huge dot-matrix thing. Then showed up a word processor program for writing school papers. Amazing! I didn't have to hand write?! I could save the paper and edit it later?!?!!?? *swoon!*

Then the single most amazing thing happened- I found out about spell checking. Even though I had to load a seperate 5.25 inch disc in, and there was no guarantee it would catch everything, the idea that I could pre-check spelling was beyond me.

I was probably the worst speller I knew. I was horrible. It was compounded by the fact that when I asked for help, my parents would reply with "look it up in the dictionary." The ensueing agruement went something like this- If I could look it up, that meant I knew how to spell it- hence my problem wouldn't be here. However, in my world at the time, I couldn't articulate that logical problem. Instead, much crying, nashing of teeth, and my general dislike for language and the written word ensued.

Then the spell check software showed up. I was hooked. Not only could I write a paper and have it somewhat close to the correct spelling checked, but I could play games on the computer. Ah-ha! My buddy Matt and I spent ENDLESS house playing The Bard's Tale. We even hacked the game without knowing we were hacking. How? We flipped the monitor on and off. That was it. Because of the circurity of the display was tied closely with the RAM of the game, sending rapid power surges fliped bits that were not supposed to be done. We wound up taking stats from one character and throwing them on to others. We though we were gods!

I took a high school computer class... then in college I did lab support... I didn't do it because I was good, I did it because it was easy. I knew more than most and liked to help. I didn't program, but I like to figure things out for myself and share what I found. I still work in computers because of spell check back in the mid-80s.

If it wasn't for Steve Jobs and Apple in my early life, I honestly don't know what career I would be in right now. Those early computer days were foggy, but I found a path that helped. I am no Apple fanboy, I've only ever owned one Apple product in my adult life and that was bought this year. That said, I am more than willing to admit- Steve Jobs was a genius, his passion & knowledge will be missed.

Things I think:

- I think an overly tired child is fun for no-one.

- I think I need a photography get-away. I haven't seriously snapped in a while.

- I think looking back to 2001 for U2's Slane Castle concert is an amusing flash back- why? The number of point and shoot film cameras in the audience. What a transition period in photography.

- I think I might give the Honor Harrington series a go. Never heard of it before this morning, but one review I heard made me pause the way they gushed over it.

- I think it is interesting that if you Google Image search for 'lots of people,' a photo I took is the second one up. It gets 40-50 hits a day. Wonder if I should submit that to a micro-stock site...

- I think the Calvert Hall v. Gilman fooball game this Friday is going to be ugly. Much like last year, Gilman should win without too much problem, and thats coming from a CHC alumni and football follower. My logic says Gilman is too loaded. My heart believes there is a way for a very very good CHC team to pull it out.

all-clad seconds

2011-10-05T17:58:00.000-07:00

So back in 2009 I gave an interview to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette about how All-Clad had a seconds sale twice a year.

I wish I could remember all that I posted back in previous version of my blog. I write this because I've had a few hits on my blog of people looking for the All-Clad information I used to have. (Dang search engine databases still think my old blog is up here!)

I haven't been to the seconds sale since 2004, and I still use those pots, pans, and tea kettle on a daily basis. They have worn just perfectly. They were worth every penny I spent.

What I can say- keep an eye on the Washington County fair grounds calendar. That is where they have held it over the past years, and that is probably the most public confirmation where you can find the date.

Here are a few tips I can recall:

Get there early if you HAVE to have something, and be prepared to wait.
Know what you want, just don't go to window shop.
Understand what the real price is, and what sort of value you are getting.
Prepare to be overwhelmed if you have never been there.
Know that these are seconds- something is going to be wrong. Some problems are obvious, others are not. Realize these pots and pans still cook wonderfully. I have a tested cookie pan with a scratch and burn mark on the bottom- I still use it with wonderful results.
The people who work this event are All-Clad employees, ask them for help. They are nice people.
Don't be a jerk.

Good luck to you if you go. I drove from Baltimore and back two different sales get whats in my cooking set.

being dad

2011-10-05T05:07:00.001-07:00

ok ok ... I lied about being away. I thought I was going to be busy doing things, turns out to be an almost non-event. It happens. So what.

There are some days that I think being a dad is disappointing. In particular, for this case, it is for babies. There have been several times, for both kids, that dad could do nothing to get them to sleep to calm. Screaming, just screaming at the top of their lungs, and there is nothing I can do to sooth them. I hand said child to mom and they are quiet and calming down like a switch was thrown.

It is a bit demoralizing. Not saying I am a failure, but for that time there was nothing I could as a parent to get them to calm down and maybe go back to sleep. They didn't want me, they only wanted mom.

There are rare times that the older daughter wants exclusive rights to dad, which is why I cherish and love it when it happens. And the younger one is at the seperation anxiety part of their life. (realizing that mom is not them as well) So my slices of exclusive "I want to be with dad" time is very limiting with young children. Though the older one was slightly different as a baby, she took to the bottle easier. I had some weekend mornings I could get her, warm a bottle, feed, and she would go back to sleep- and this was the best, on me. I would wrap a nice blanket over us and snooze a bit on the couch together. Now that was nice.

Lets see what happens in 4-5 years when they are both running around and playing, either together or seperatly. How much will they want mom or dad at that point? Who will be prefered?

Things I think:

- I think having three praying mantis around the house is both good and bad. Good for catching bugs, but bad because this means there are plenty to catch. For the record, I took zero photos of any of them. Will need to locate the mottle brown and white one for some closeups.

- I think having an HTML code book for babies is something that needs to be sold on Think Geek.

- I think after seeing it in person, the 60 inch TV from Samsung is probably too big for my house. Would be complete awsome to watch the Ravens on though.

- I think I would have completely swooned over having a Lego camperbus to build as a kid. I recall spending endless hours trying to create the perfect camper for my minifigures.

- I think one of the best feelings in the world is a greeting a happy child in the morning after they slept the night.

- I think getting Sprint getting the iPhone was neat and all, but you would think they would make it the biggest and best thing on their website.

- I think I am fine with checking Facebook once every 3-4 days and I am thinking of even cutting back even further.

Busy week

2011-10-03T17:29:00.000-07:00

I doubt I will have much time to post this week. So if you are looking for a regular update- look again next week I think. Sorry folks- just don't have time.

really, are you kidding me?

2011-09-30T05:15:00.001-07:00

Blantant Disregard.

Just throw it in my face with ingorance and the attitude of "someone else's problem." Or my favorite, its only one, who cares?

What am I talking about? People who think the road is thier personal trashcan. I know, I know... I could pick on other things, but this is my blog and I am going to bitch about what I want to.

I was driving home yesterday and the person in front of me empties their trash cup while we are going 50+ mph, then just lets go of the cup itself. Why on earth does this person think they are that special? Do they not care? (most likely answer)

I recall a story I would tell when I was working out at Philmont as a Ranger. I told the kids that while your one piece of trash might not mean much in the 214 square miles, it isn't JUST your one piece of trash. It is the other 20,000+ campers who came out to the camp every summer as well. Everyone follows the same trails, so the level of impact is magnified to those trails and camps. It is very easy to be ingorant, narrow sighted, and self focused. It is much harder to think about others, be kind, and help. Because you expand yourself, look outside of your own needs, and start thinking about the big picture. If every person left just that one piece of trash, after just 3 summers, there would be 60,000+ pieces of trash laying around. It is entirely understandable if you drop one without knowing, or forget. Thats where others come in to play, and one of my favorite sayings:

"Be the change you want to see in the world." (Gandhi)

It is such a simple thing, which is why I try to do things that I want to see done. I am not leading a revolution, but I am going to do simple things. Not asking for praise or cash reward, but people who toss thier trash out their car window makes me think about that quote. Does that mean they want to see trash in their world, and be ingorant? I guess they are without realizing it and not caring.

Things I think:

- I think, getting 5 hours of non-continuous sleep two nights in a row is no fun.

- I think I am going to have a VERY painful Monday. 'nuff said.

- I think the weather this weekend is going to be GLORIOUS.

- I think there is just something very funny and amazing about my 2 year old saying "Gesundheit" after my wife sneezes.

- I think this suggestion would solve many questions people pose to me about local hikes. Honestly folks, I have very little knowledge about them.

- I think Freakonomics nailed it again with this peice on common sense. Trying to take something utterly complex and applying a simple phrase to it is not doing anyone any good, Make me feel better about 'common sense' and trying to deal with those who do or do not have any.

- I think of about 3 more things after I post these things. Might as well just over it that I forget/remember. It happens.

thunderstorms

2011-09-29T05:09:00.001-07:00

I like thunderstorms. I just do.

When I was a kid I would run to the windows and watch for lightning. Just stare outside looking. The lightning, the thunder. It was cool stuff.

First of all, yes, I know these things are dangerous. Storms are not something that to be triffled with. I respect the power they represent.

However, I think they are amazing. One bolt of lightning is an insane amount of power- 5 million jules. (power a common house for a month) Thats just the physics of it all. Then there is the "wow" factor. Watching lightning light up a summer night sky, or across an open plane out west. It is just an amazing site.

One of my favorite things when I was working out in New Mexico was thunderstorms. An afternoon thunderstorm that allowed me to crawl in my tent, and take a nap. There is something just nice to hear the rain on the tent, and the boom of thunder... assuming of course it isn't an insane cell, hail isn't falling on you, and the wind is threatening to take everything you own and scatter it in the trees. It also sucks to be stuck in a thunderstorm as you are crossing a mountain pass on your way down at the end of a week long backpacking trip in the Grand Tetons. (also happened to me)

Backpacking tents hold a special magic for me... they are, literaly, a shelter in a storm. A place to rest, be cozy, and get WAY too much sleep. Seriously, I have gotten some of the longest streches of sleep in a tent. Mostly because the sun dicates my waking hours. Combine that homely sancuatary with a good storm, and I am good as I get.

Just a reminder though, camping in the backyard generally sucks. Though I think thats where I will be starting with my kids. Hopefully I can break them in properaly and get them to a park first.

Things I think:

- I think Edge already does something like this.

- I think this sort of grill is silly, give me low and slow any day. Heck, pull an Alton Brown and cook in a flower pot.

- I think hearing the word synergy makes me laugh.

- I think hearing the Orioles play the role of spoilers is crap. I hate hearing it. For the 10th season in a row, next year, I will be impressed if they finish above .500. That is all.

- I think my photography themed Twitter account might need to be scrapped. I have posted one thing in over a week. Nor have I read much of ANY posts by others.

- I think no one really reads this blog. =)

interwebz

2011-09-28T06:12:00.001-07:00

There are times that I get very annoyed, paranoid, and weary of the Internet in general. I want to unplug and fade away. Hacks, spam, crime, more spam, stolen material, even more spam, the seedy underbelly... my gosh, it is like the real world. Sorta. With more spam. Unless you live in Hawaii, then there is never enough Spam. But I digress.

Then there are times that I can't believe we ever lived without it. For instance, I got a carpet cleaner. However, there was no owners manual. Fire-up a browser via my uber-swift FiOS internet connect, type in the maker and model... and within 30 seconds, I got the manual. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. How on earth did we ever move forward without this amazing connect of tubes?!

Just musings from a guy who grew up with the internet booming in front of his eyes. Where Lynx was my first taste of Internet proper. Where a pulsating N was exiciting... well, you get the point. It was fun, amazing, mind boggling at the same time. Every year something new blew up on the scene and we figured out how to use it.

Now kids just know it all works.

Still, there are times I need to unplug and get away from it all. Send me to the woods and not worrying about email, CNN headline news, or what funny YouTube video just hit my funny bone.

Darn complicated life. Lets see what happens in the next 20 years.

Things I think:

- I think, and it is a little painful to admit it, the iPad has helped potty train my daughter. Not via a particular potty training app, but just having it to distract her in general.

- I think it is amazing that I haven't bit my tongue or cheek more considering how much chewing I do... however when it does happen, it is embarrassing that it did happen. (and painful)

- I think this is about time.

- I think next year's Ravens training camp is gonna be fun for me... not entirely sure why, just a hunch involving photography. I think a photographers meetup would be very cool.

- I think mid week sports talk is some of the worst kind during the NFL season.

- I think the end of the regular baseball season always comes too late. A 163 game season is just nuts.

- I think it is amazing to realize there are so few kids out riding bikes. I realized this yesterday driving home, when I did see some kids. I was shocked. When did this trend happen? I lived on my bike in middle school! Well, not lived... I delivered papers, I road all over the place. Now, I am amazed when I do see kids riding bikes.

its gonna be awesome

2011-09-27T05:54:00.001-07:00

Becoming a parent hasn't changed me internally from what I was before the kids TOO much... but it has changed me externally to what I was before kids.

I believe if anything, I have new things to think about... my free time, my time, has been replaced by Elmo, playing catch, and various trips to the park.

Before kids, I had a whole slew of different things I was involved in. Different groups, acitivities, personal efforts, etc. I considered myself active to say the least. I would travel, I would do things, I would help out, and most of all, I was content. I could rattle off all the different things I have done, things I was looking forward to, and various big trips I had cooking in the back of my mind. I had alumni stickers of various schools and activities I was involved in on my vehical.

Now?

I am still content- however I don't know when my next vacation will be. I don't know when I will get free time to just take photos for fun and learning. I don't know if I will walk the dog when I get home.

I still think a lot about all those things I want to be involved in. I think I would be doing my kids a disservice by just brushing thier early childhoods aside by me being selfish and keep doing what I was doing. I don't think I could do it all to be honest... I think the best merge point is to get them interested in the same things I like- hopefully.

For instance, I have got daughter #1 interested in taking Sierra to the Gunpowder for a walk. She loves it. Getting her out, getting her interested in walks, taking the dog... making it fun, etc. Making setting up my tent in the basement a fun event, so much so that she asks to do it once a week. So in a couple years, I will be able to combine the two for 'real' camping with her.

Not saying it is all going to work out- the odds of her liking everything I do. I don't know if they will like Philmont, or travel. I just don't know. But the wife and I have enough different expriences and likes that the support and interest for doing different things are there so that they have a wealth of selections to choose from. Heck, they might even introduce another thing or three that I had no clue about until they show ME!

Its gonna be awesome.

Things I think:

- I think hearing my daughter say, un-solicited, un-expected, and totally un-rehearsed- "you the best daddy ever" caused my brain to totally freeze, lock, and blank. I had nothing prepaired for something like this other than to continue to hold her before bed time.

- I think the Baltimore Sun putting up a paywall will vastly cut down eyeballs on their pages, and displayed adverts. I don't think the people paying for access will out weigh the money generated by displayed ads.

- I think beer can chicken still makes me drool.

- I think Stoney River rocks.

- I think virtual monkeys writing Shakespear is pretty much a gimmie.

- I think the Ravens/Jets game this Sunday night is gonna be a great one- just a hunch. Take it for whats it worth.

- I think I am just gonna get some replacement lenses for my sunglasses. And maybe a new bag, cause I lost my old one... again.

- I think a carpet cleaner will be very challeneged with the carpet in our family room.

my facebook life, or lack of

2011-09-23T05:31:00.001-07:00

I've been twiddling around with Facebook since, I dunno... it was required to have a .edu mailing address. I wasn't too keen on it to be honest, but curious because it was exclusive at the time. But then I stopped entirely, put it away because 90% of the users were students and I was a University employee. No sense in interacting with those I had only a shared bit of carpet with. (so to speak) I might have been more obessive if it bounced out while I was in college, to a degree. I am the last generation in front the social wave, I think.

Then they opened it up... allowed everyone to join, and I still sort of stayed away. I was using this blog, v1.0, to communicate. People flocked to FB. They loved it, checking out whatever one was doing. I poked about, pun intended, and still really didn't like being 'tied' to "checking in" all the time to find out what was going on. It was neat to check up on people I hadn't heard from in forever, seems there was a reason why I lost contact after all. I don't keep a huge list of friends, under 120. The most I do is post some information, and check out others material. Ok, my biggest contribution is posting photos of my girls. There I said it. I am a serial "check out my family photos" guy. You got me...

However, with security update after update... I am less likely to do that. I posted them there because I wanted my wife to be able to share those images out, somewhat protected. Turns out they aren't as protected. Stories rose that even after "deleting" images, they were still accessable. That images posted could be used in ads for other people in FB. And thats likely the tip of the iceberg in terms of issues.

I don't want to manage my social. I don't want to worry about being on 24/7 so I make sure I see posts from friends I haven't heard from in a while. I don't want to keep changing my security settings. I don't want to worry about my family images being sold, or traded, or re-used. I don't want to be told what is important in 'feeds.'

The final straw was this lastest update... I can't even use the site effectively to be honest. I liked the previous round of updates. The grouping of posts was nice. But now, I have no time, no clue, and frankely... don't even want to get on FB to find out what MIGHT be occuring.

As I posted yesterday, FB and Twitter have become virtual soap boxes on crowded streets... you get up, say something for 15 seconds, and hope that you are heard over the hundreds of others doing the same thing. And unless you are on ALL the time, manage social for a side business, or have a VERY targeted audience, the messages get lost. I don't want to be tied to social engines. I don't have time. I thought these sites were to help make connecting with friends easier, instead- they suck what little free time I had away.

So, the beatings will continue until morale improves... no wait, thats not right. I might jump on even less. Likely. I don't like Twitter... I haven't done much with Google Plus. Basically, I am reverting back to emails, blogs, and pre-social media intergration until someone shows me something better. *cough* Diasopra *cough*

Still people swarmed to it... How many of the 750 million accounts are one single real person? (my dog doesn't need an account, and I don't feel the need to hide in plain site with 20 other accounts tied to my same name)

Things I think:

- I think just because you own a Hummer.... doesn't mean you can drive up on the sidewalk to get around me at a stop light.

- I think I have a pile of shreddeable material that my shredder can't handle it all. Hopefully there will be some dry time this weekend so I can burn it all. *woot*

- I think I need to make sure it isn't April 1st before looking at these types of stories. How much further are we from the Matrix?

- I think with the Fall lineup of new TV shows, I am even more sad at the loss of Lost. *sigh*

- I think, as an extension from above statement, I am going to re-watch the Hitcherhicker's Guide to the Galaxy movie.

- I think my once love affair with baseball was effectively squelshed by the Orioles. Entirely. Utterly.

random bits

2011-09-22T08:26:00.001-07:00

- I think using Twitter or FB now is the equalivant to standing on a soap box, saying something for 15 seconds, and hoping someone else notices.

- I think I need to do some detective work on our new dryer- seems it is still taking too long to dry. Possible problem with the vent? Need to spend a little time investigating.

- I think I might be too senestive to this, but I really think the new washing machine is doing a bang up job.

- I think using website endorsement of products is telling of the times. (ref: TV manufacture throwing a Gizmodo review on their advert)

- I think child #2 needs to figure out how to sleep better. Might be ordering this real soon.

- I think child #1 is darn toot'n funny. But at the same time, she knows how to play my wife with 'tears.'

- I think I should be more sad about REM's demise- but I am not. Was just never cool enough to be a fan I guess.

- I think the best sour beef and dumpings in the area belongs to Silver Spring Mining Company.

- I think my grass still needs cutting.

wednesday nights are for...

2011-09-21T05:12:00.001-07:00

Game night!

I've been going to buddies' houses, usually the basement, to do game night since about 2004/5. It started small, often 3-4 guys playing board games that they liked. I was all for it, but I never bought any games. Food and drinks would always show up. Slowly the group has grown... and most nights there are at least three different games going on. From long terms games taking a couple weeks, to short 30 minute ones waiting for other games to end.

Some guys have stopped showing, but most keep showing up. Some early, some late. Some with a huge bag of games, some with food... others stay until 2am, whereas I leave at 10. (I am a pumkin gamer, destined to turn in to a pumkin if I stay too late)

We've had guys go to Germany for Speil. Most of the hard core to go the World Boardgaming Championships in PA. I've never thought of going to be honest.

Somewhere along the line I got the brillant idea to start taking photos of game night and posting them on Flickr. I've been doing it so long, the set is over 1,000 images! Those are well tweaked, edited down, and tagged for game-ness.

I am still not a hard core gamer, I think I have bought or obtained a handful of games. (the wife and I love carcassonne) I've had a game maker contact me for use of some images with their supporting game magazine. Nice, but not what I set out to do. Call it validation I suppose.

In the mean time, I consider game night to be one of my social outlets. It is always a good time... even if to hang out some guys shooting the crap for an hour. But most Wednesday nights, I am looking forward to game night at some level- photos, games, social, food/drink.

Things I think:

- I think I don't like FB much. I used to sorta like it... but now- blech.

- I think I shouldn't post too often about good daughter days because they seem to be quickly followed by bad daughter days. Well, bad in the sense it is utterly draining on the parents.

- I think I hit every possible red light on the way to work this morning.

- I think this is close to what I was thinking about for historical Google maps.

- I think the Ravens surprised me again- signing my favorite player for 5 years.

- I think offering professional services like photography for causes you believe in is a good thing for everyone.

- I think the house down the corner from us should read this and think again. The house has been "for sale" for almost three years now. They have gone through two different agents.. Listed intially July 2008, three price changes, delisted Dec 2009. Relisted March 2010, three more price changes. The end result so far? No sale.

that moment

2011-09-20T05:38:00.001-07:00

I don't know about the rest of the dads out there... but for me, there are not a lot times that daughter #1 wants just dad. She loves being "like a family." (her words all the time) This includes the dog Sierra many times. She understands that there are other families that she sees as well. Things like going to the Zoo as a family, or walks, or hanging out.

Well, last night must have been daddy/daughter evening- not that we set out that way. After dinner we went to the park, did the swings, did the sliding boards, etc. There is even a small climbing wall there that she scaled with no fear, and a assist from me. She was having a lot of fun. Then she saw the kids in the fields practicing "soccer time." She wanted to check it out... we walked over, as fast as a two year old could go... and I was explaining how she just couldn't join in. This confused her, I tried to explain teams, and practice. Very confusing subjects to someone getting used to sharing and borrowing.

Instead of watching, we walked back to the swings for a little more fun. Then, somehow- someway the moment happened. I picked her up, and carried her half way home. She was funny, and cuddly, and just my little girl. I can see myself, years from now, looking back to that 5 minute walk as something I will always recall with a smile. Those pig-tails sticking out, laughing and making me smile. I don't think I really saw the sidewalk during that time.

To me, it was a rare moment. Everything hit at the same time.

Oh, and when we got home, more daddy time. This time with some chalk play on the driveway.

Things I think:

- I think 4K HD is the next push in video. Think your 60 LED is sweet? Wait until 4k HD hits the streets...

- I think Freakonomics nailed it again- there is no negative side to predictions, only "positive."

- I think I am still waiting for Sprint to invite me to the October 5th launch of the iPhone 5. Come'n!

- I think the lack of a Ngata contract hosed other moves the Ravens could have done. Plus, how do you not sign your top player long term?

- I think the History channel is hitting some home runs. I hope who ever is in charge for the changes they made is getting some nice bonuses.

hard to find

2011-09-19T05:09:00.001-07:00

What happened? When I grew up there was a literal meat market down the street from my house. Pop in for some prime cuts of meat, check out whats on sale, etc.

When I was little, after church my dad would take us over to Pleasant Plains shopping center for Herman's bakery. The pastry's rocked. (THANK GOD, one location still exists)Loved going in, seeing all the good stuff, and walking out with a white box of goodies. I know they had good bread, but we never seemed to get any.

So what happened to these local yummie shops?

The evil supermarket! At least I think so.

Well, not evil- but I know traveling around was a major pain. Get all the same 'stuff' at one location. (I can still recall buying an encyclopedia set one volume at a time at Giant back in the day... )

Now that I want to cook better, nicer, stuff... these types of places cannot be found. Sure, places like Whole Foods, or Wegmans might get close... but they are a pain for me to get to. Ok ok, the Abingon Wegmans is a bit better. But it just opened yesterday.

And I honestly don't know if these types of places would surive if they popped back up to be honest. I think you would need the right setting, the right set of clients, and the right timing. The supermarkets are doing some things right, but personalization is not one of them.

I'm off to look at prepackaged meats in the hopes of finding what I need instead of asking someone I know, trust, and has the experience to back it up.

Things I think:

- I think WRNR is what WHFS should be. Sorry HFS, but you need to re-think your re-launch for a while.

- I think talk like a Pirate day is silly. Though my daughter #1 likes it sometimes, "I'm a pirate! Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr"

- I think U2 has one more world tour in them. I somehow expect Larry to say he is done, but the band will do what they have always done- circle the wagons and say it was a group decision. <cheeky>Though the lack of the U2 tower is ulitmately what drives Larry to hit the eject button. (crummy Hanover studios) </cheeky>

- I think it is amazing that I can get a full blown everything about U2's Dublin in a few short clicks. Just 10-15 years ago it was a very hush-hush, inner circle sort of knowledge.

- I think my grass still needs to be cut.

- I think the Ravens need to clean that pile of poo they left on the field yesterday and get healthy before scaring anyone else.

- I think I need to feel better about the Ravens game, time to fire up the Week 1 Steelers game.

- I think the Fanasty Football gods are after me... for the second straight season my #1 RB selection is out for the season with injury. And for the record, I never liked picking this year's RB. Was the logical choice, but still- ugh. Oh, and last week, my kicker blew his ACL. Whats next? A WR, maybe a QB?

- I think Andy Nelson's needs a White Marsh/Perry Hall store. Just say'n.

- I think a historical version of Google Maps might be kinda cool. What used to be there over time, how things changed, etc. *HINT HINT*

wonder/ful dog

2011-09-16T05:14:00.001-07:00

I was meeting my wife and child #1 at the playground after taking child #2 and Sierra for a walk. (It is pretty much the only exercise I get now-a-days.) First off, Sierra loves to go for a walk. You say the word walk, and she gets bouncy excited. Which is rare for her. She is focused; she wants nothing more than to keep going. If we ever stop and I talk to someone, she doesn't want to hang out- she wants to walk dangit.

By the time we got to the play ground, it was at the end of the normal walk we had. We got there, and two kids came up asking if they could pet her. Sure I say. Sierra could have cared less. Then more kids came up... and I think by the end, every kid but child #1 had petted Sierra at the playground. Even when I was walking home, one kid darted back, gave Sierra a last pet and a hug and went back playing.

The entire time, she didn't do anything. It was like the kids weren't there. No tail wagging, no signs of aggregation. Just a dog waiting to go home.

Top this off with her recent 'semi-celebrity' status as pitch dog for Eukenuba. A photo of her was used in a national ad campaign for the dog food, seen it in National Geographic, and heard of it in places like Goodhouse Keeping. Ha!

All from a dog who just wants to go for a walk, curl up in a nice safe warm place, and get a treat now and then.

Sierra is a wonder/ful dog. Now, if I could just do something about the occasional gas...

Things I think:

- I think daughter #1 is funny. Does things like saying she is brushing her nose with her toothbrush.... or my recent personal favorite. Middle of dinner, she looks at her fork of food and says, "Thats weird...." and we start laughing. For the next 30 minutes she attempts to throw the same line to see if we laugh again.

- I think sometimes I find a good recipe and never use it... then someone else makes it, and I wonder why I never did.

- I think newspaper vending machines will go the way of phone booths.

- I think people are shocked when I say I am not a fan of Berger cookies. (nope, sorry)

- I think I need a real vacation next year. Go somewhere and do next to nothing for about a week. I know thats not possible with kids, but at least not have to drive to work for a week. That'd be nice too.

- I think I am not ever sorry to see hot, sticky, Baltimore summer weather leave the area. Fall is always welcomed with open arms. (and a nice warm jacket)

- I think I am curious about Windows 8 app development. From what I have heard, it is dead simple- which makesme wonder about some future projects.

- I think my venture in to listening to the Hitchhikers Guide from the BBC has been a semi-failure. While the sound effects are dated, the biggest problem I have is that- appreantly, there are different versions for the book, radio, and TV. (and by extension, movie) Don't like the radio version too much, thankyouverymuch.

- I think I am a fan of the trend in the Baltimore area to offer $1 crab Tuesdays. Though the $2 crab Wednesdays are a strech. (by about a $1)

Girl Scout cookies!

2011-09-15T05:14:00.001-07:00

My first memories of Girl Scout Cookies are mountains of cookies. Just cases and cases of them in the basement of my family's house. Why?

My mom was the leader of the troop selling them with my sisters. They were the delivery point for the troop who sold them. I loved that time of year because I could pretend that all of those boxes of cookies were mine. Ultimately though, I was lucky enough to have one or two boxes to myself because that was all that I could afford. Thin mints for the record. Now-a-days, give me Samoas.

I grew up thinking it was a great fundraiser for the troop involved. After all, my Boy Scout fund rising went all to the troop who did the activity. Then I learned that the money for Girl Scouts is divided up differently. 70% of the money goes towards the local council, not directly back to the troop. The troop that sells them only receives about 10%-15% of the retail price. Thats a lot of work for very little direct help. I have no clue what sort of administrative costs the Girl Scout council have. To be honest, I have no clue how big it is. I do know most of the Girl Scout camps my sisters and mom went to back in the day are now gone- sold off because they were too expensive to keep up.

So what does this mean? I have often wondered if the girls who do all this selling understand the economics behind the cookie sales. I am very hopeful that that the money is being spent well, and help all the girls who sell them. However, I have my doubts. It is frustrating seeing all this effort and not knowing where the money might be going. If I am wrong, then someone please clue me in.

Things I think:

- I think seeing two car seats in the back of an early 90s Mustang is just plain silly.

- I think seeing tonight's low of 49 makes me giggle a tad. Just yesterday it was a high of about 88 or so. We go from AC to heating in less than 24 hours. Gonna be a wild winter I think.

- I think the move away from Flash driven sites is because of Apple. Full stop.

- I think having a free meal at Carrabba's, even if it is only appetizers, is pretty sweet.

- I think the email from Sprint to me about my free iPhone 5 got lost- feel free to resend Sprint. I am willing to be a schill on this blog for ya. =)

- I think it is getting close to time that I need to buy a new pair of sunglasses. My current pair, Oakley Half Jacket, has been with me for at least five years. I know it has been that long because I had them when I last played softball. I've had two sets of shades, but the frames just don't hold as well anymore... and the current pair of lenses are pretty beat up. Gotta say, these suckers have just done amazing.
Time to start surfing eBay for a deal.

- I think if the Titans are worrying about a playoff game 3 seasons ago to get pumped up for this week's game, they are stretching. A lot.

- I think Google Goggles is pretty damn cool. Can Disney please get a version for their parks, line info, reservations, etc?

- I think Google is in to everything, and this is why. And I can totally see them funding self driving cars, why? In vehicle advertising with captured audiences.

really?

2011-09-14T05:18:00.001-07:00

It was bound to happen, the Stillers fans have finally come up with a reaction to Sundays complete domance: "I was curious how the Steelers beat the Ravens in every game that matters and have been in three Super Bowls since 2006, but a week one win was revenge or got the monkey off the Ravens back? Call me when the Ravens and Flacco win one in January.'' (from SI)

Thats the best they got for a completely dominating game? The last time a team won by more than 7 was Nov 6, 2006. Ten games ago. Lets check back in the next game to see how things are going shall we? If we are going to compare previous seasons to this one, then we need to take all the angles. Not just "January games" that matter. If we are going to take 2011 season as a stand alone set, which is logical, then we need to admit domance.

If the Stillers crap the bed again this week against the Seahawks, I am going to be extremely happy. Then again, if the Ravens play a very close game against the Titans, I will be worried. (win or lose)

Still, if the Stillers need to go backwards to figure out some sort of "make myself feel better" story, they are in trouble this season.

Things I think:

- I think the backup singers in Adele's Rolling in the Deep sure do sound like they are singing "Rolling in the sheep." Just say'n.

- I think Vladimir Putin is bat-crap crazy. Though in a Zaphof Beeblebrox sort of way. (See his role as President of the Galaxy)

- I think XKCD nails it every, single, damn, time. I always say, finding gas for 10 cents, even 20 cents cheaper is not worth the effort unless it is across the street. Think about it folks.

- I think if Sprint gets the iPhone 5 like rumored, they ought to look up some long time customers- say my wife and I who have collectively been customers for about 20 years, and let us be test subjects. Let us keep our current phone plan, hook us up with UBER cheap data rates, and see what happens. Just a suggestion.

YOU HEAR ME SPRINT?!

- I think I also don't care too much about smart phones. I mean from the latest and greatest specs. I think.

- I think Facebook updating again is a pain. Do I need to adjust more privacy settings?

- I think this sort of missing weapons is very scary.

- I think the new Sikorsky helocopter is insane. Just nuts big and powerful.

- I think our new washer/dryer combo is going to save us some in the energy bill department. Everything I've heard is the amount of water is low, and the clothes come out of the washer dryer than anything else, that the dryer is used A LOT less. Could be sweet combo without even realizing it. Maybe the washer and dryer will get done at the same time. Novel approach.

cutting boards

2011-09-13T05:11:00.000-07:00

Odd topic right? Cutting boards. What gives?

Well, I'll tell you... I used to have one. For everything. Seemed like the easy logical thing. Centrally located next to my stove. Easy for cutting stuff, and popping it in to a pot/pan for cooking. I love to cook after all.

Then I realized, I never clean it. That can't be good right?

Well, I got married, have kids, and now we have about eight of them. Eight I said. Two biggies, and six smaller ones.

I think there hasn't been very many loads of dishes that don't have at least one cutting board in it. What does that mean though? It means we are cutting food! It means we are staying home, having some darn good, self made, yummie food. Fruit, veg, chicken, etc. Child #1 is getting yummie goodness, and #2 is getting there slowly. (pears and avocado recently)

We are slowly getting back to slightly more fun food... child #1 will eat just about anything we put in front of her. Which is fanastic as she loves things like home made tzatziki and salads.

Hopefully in a couple years, I can start venturing back out to slow cooked BBQ land. As that takes a lot of time to do, and the kids take more important time to be involved with... Slow cooked ribs will hopefully work their way back on to the sometimes menu of home made food.

In the mean time, I am very happy we have so many cutting boards to support the wonderful diverse food intake that we are currently enjoying. Life is good. Now for the cooler weather and some crock-pot slow cooked meals!

Things I think:

- I think FF is somewhat silly really, but the Wes Welker 99+ yard TD last night won me my game this week. Even with my kicker blowing his ACL and getting me no points. Ha!

- I think I have heard of this, and am curious if they have done some sort of double blind scientific study on this. Color me doubtful.

- I think injuries are awful for any professional althete, but adding this one to Sunday's game... like finding money in a pocket.

- I think the Calvert Hall football team has a very tough strech of games over the next three. Red Lion has the uber-freshman David Sills. Don't know much about Coolidge from DC, but could be a tough game. But the Gilman game will have all the markings of revenge and a beat down. Ick.

- I am not sure what to think about the massive effort to digitize books. Ultimately it should be a good thing, right? But the death of physical books is hard to wrap my tiny ape brain around.

- I think "randomly" plugging anything you don't know about in to your computer is silly.

- I think the tossing of Korilla from the Food Truck Race was mighty sketchy. Very edited, will be curious to see the reaction when the NDA's and such are lifted.

- I think I am having steamed crabs tonight. Woot.

sweet

2011-09-12T05:21:00.001-07:00

O-h, m-y g-o-o-d-n-e-s-s

Who saw that amazing game coming yesterday? Seriously? So glad I didn't try to predict anything about the season because I would have put down the first game as a loss vs. the Stillers. Seriously... no one in the NFL really saw this coming. Not the pundits, not the Stillers, not most Ravens fans drinking the purple coolaid. Seriously. Wow.

Never seen the Stillers D look so slow, and in-affective. Never seen 'Big' Ben look so lost and beaten. (other than when Ngata broke his nose)

It was a thing of beautity to see Ward on his butt. To see Leech and McKinney drive defenders in the ground and keep them there... to see well, the entire game. I could re-watch the entire game every night this week and not get tired of it.

Wow.

Reminder to self- the NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. But good golly that was nice.

Things I think:

- I think the Gunpowder must have been a very wild place to be last week with all that rain. I hiked it yesterday and it was really high, but the evidence left over made it 3-4 feet higher. Amazing amount of power and water running there.

- I think I might need to invest in a machete to cut my lawn if I ever do. Haven't cut it in two weeks... and every time I might have time, it has been either been raining or the grass is soaked.

- I think Steelers fans are grasping for something out of yesterdays game- I heard two guys 'bashing' Harbaugh. "I don't like either of them (the coaching brothers)... and the way he was trying to pump up the crowd before the fourth quarter... pathetic." Dude- seriously, scoreboard.

- I think I might send the inventors of this "alarm" clock for kids a small gift. I had my doubts, but it is working!

- I think the weekend needs to be extended a day so I can get everything done I need to.

- I think back to back events on a Saturday are fun for the kids, but the drive to Howard County is always longer out than back. No clue why.

- I think right after I post this, I will come up with 3-4 more things I forgot.

jersey friday

2011-09-09T05:00:00.001-07:00

I am not talking about New Jersey, I am talking about football (American football that is) jerseys.

When I got to my new job in the winter of 2009, I had only worn a jersey on game day for the Ravens. I had a freebie McNair, and a decent Ed Reed. Then the fall rolled around and someone declaired Fridays, "Jersey Friday!"

Wear your team's colors, assuming they were playing that Friday. (Thursday and Monday night games being adjusted timeframes)

It has been a lot of fun to do this at work... for the most part we are a Ravens influenced work zone, but there are a smattering of Redskins. (thats in my office area) There are plenty of other people who support other teams. Some teams shall not be named right now.

I know when I wore my jersey last season, daughter #1 would want to wear her little one. That put a huge smile on my face. I know she has no clue what all that means... she only wanted to be like everyone else. (wife wearing one as well, because she was pregent and could wear super comfy pants with the jersey)

She does this cute around the room of: "Daddy, you wear jersey? Mommy, you wear jersey?" This also happens at dinner, "Baby, you done dinner? Mommy, you done dinner? Daddy, you done dinner?"

So my motivation for wearing jerseys has been boltered by work and game day. I have since obtained a few more... even got a Johnny Unitas throwback jersey. (love it) Let the good times roll. Assuming the Ravens win of course.

Things I think:

- Just got an email from the wife- child #2 is crawling! Full tilt... no more doing the worm. Also no more plop down and know where she is.

- I think the rain should be just about done. It was buckets and buckets at the house when I left this morning. Record setting flooding.

- I think the key player for the Ravens will be their new fullback. Just a hunch, but as he goes, so will the Ravens early on.

- I think I don't pay attention to the stock market that much because it would drive me to drink if I did. My philosophy is- as long as it is above 10,000- eh, whatever.

- I think the two party system in America is screwed up. Yet, I have no good solution for it.

- I think Irish Breakfast tea is too touchy for regular drinking. Steeping it for slightly too long makes it undrinkable.

- I think this is ONE HECK of a revenge listing on Craig's List. Not as malicious as the fake sales listing for everything at someone else's house, but demented.

- I think I am still waiting for a sponsor to this blog so I can get a new computer at home. Anyone? Any takers?

Rain

2011-09-08T12:01:00.001-07:00

Its insane... just insane the amount of rain in Baltimore area the past week. In the pervious 36 hours though, some places have gotten over 6 inches of rain. Good lord.

I've seen friends' photos/videos of huge rivers of water where normally it is a quiet creek. Mailboxes are almost under water, playgrounds disappeared, just insane amounts of water.

Thankfully, so far, not much of those issues have affected my home or area around my home. I think the driest part of my house right now is my basement, thanks to my dehumidifier.

Most of these good things can be attributed to good planning and engineering. Keeping eyes on drainage, helping houses stay dry with sump pumps, etc. It is amazing to see how much better things are looked over due to regulations and engineering now than maybe just 20-30 years ago. Who worries about their house burning down now? No seriously- what are you more worried about now? Your house burning down or being robbed? Think about that.

Anyhow- Lets get the rain out of the area, and I am hoping for a nice crisp, cool, and dry fall.

Things I think:

- I think this is damn funny, and while it might not ever happen- it would be freaking funny.

- I think, well, more my wife than I, daughter #2 is teething horribly.

- I think I have no clue why daughter #1 is waking up at 2am.

- I think I will be enjoying the Ravens home opener with some good friends and some good food.

- I think I might be able to take the girls and dog for a walk after I get home... assuming the rain stays west like the reports say. The dog and I could use the exercise, the girls could use some fresh air, and my wife could use the break.

- I think there is some sort of cosmic joke happening- can Maria please stay away?

- I think walking along the Gunpowder this weekend might be silly.

things I think

2011-09-07T05:41:00.001-07:00

- I think I am not a big fan of the taste of real honey. Not sure why.

- I didn't think I could have too many Ricolas, but appreantly I could and did.

- I think when my kids go to high school, most of their text books will come via some sort of e-device.

- I think there are no simple answers to the big questions... only lots and lots of little answers.

- I think the concepts of 'doubt' and 'wonder' really define humans. (boy howdy, Phil is thinking deep this morning)

- I think the more than half of the outcome of Sunday's Ravens game rests on the Ravens offensive line.

- I think the Ravens run game has been 'overlooked' in the pre-season. Which is a good thing.

- I think U2's British GQ cover makes Bono look his age plus some.

- I think I like the concept of an all-in-one computer.

- I think the video from Colbert and Kimmel doing Friday is still one of the funniest things I have ever seen.

- I think I will get a free Chick-fil-A for breakfast tomorrow. (you can too)

- I think I will go at least once back to Philmont with each of my daughters. Either together or seperately. Hopefully for a trip in to the backcountry with them. If nothing else than to share with them a little slice of what makes their dad tick.