Betamax!! I see I have your attention. Anyone from the 80s knows this dead format as previously being the sole competitor to the VHS format. Anyone familiar with the format knows that it was much better than VHS. So why did it lose the fight? Sony would not license the format in a way that vendors could truly benefit from it; JVC, the VHS creator, did. Sony made the format restricted to five and a half hours maximum; JVC started at six and eventually went to eight hour tapes. Sony's machines were bulky and expensive; JVC, and its licensees, made slightly less bulky but far less expensive machines available to the masses. Sony screwed up; JVC thrived and made money hand over fist.
So, did Sony learn its lesson after this fiasco? Nope. Since then we had the Walkman (arguably, its only open-format success), the Minidisc (only recently licensed out, but pretty much dead), the Trinitron monitor (someone made an almost as sharp, less expensive rival technology), and my personal distasteful favourite, the Memory Stick (also recently licenses to the likes of Lexan and Sandisk, amongst others, but still essentially only for Sony products). That last one, the Memory Stick, is particulary offensive because it shows Sony's continued insistence to a) not listen to its customers, b) not think about lowering the cost for the customer and c) not use accepted industry standards that are proven, available and cheap. For example, the Compact Flash format is already at 8GB and growing; Memory Stick is rumoured to have a 4GB model but all you can readily buy currently are 2GB units. Compact Flash (CFI and CFII)and Secure Digital (SD), plus to a lesser extent xD, are used in almost every digital camera, expandable MP3 player and PDA on the planet; the Memory Stick is used in basically Sony products and not a whole lot much of anything else.
Which brings us to the PSP. As much as my LB loves his unit (no pun intended), even he would have to admit that it would have been a whole lot more useful if he were able to write his own discs and it used industry standard memory. In fact, Sony was warned that they were doing themselves a disservice by insisting on hoisting proprietary formats on the buying public; AGAIN. Hiding behind DRM (Digital Rights Management) is just a smokescreen for wanting to hold it all close to the vest. And that is okay as they have a right to protect their property but there has to be a balance. I'll talk more to that in a moment. For the PSP to have the longevity it deserves it should have adhered to current industry standards to lower its price, allow people to use hardware (i.e. flash memory) they already own in this new toy they bought and they should have made it possible for people to record their own UMDs (allowing the annoying viewing and display of home movies wherever they went).
Instead, Sony closed their UMD format so that a consumer could not record his/her own information for displaying on the wonderful PSP screen; there are no blank UMD discs available, no recorders or adapters to write your own UMD. Then, they decide to use ONLY their own memory format instead of allowing the consumer to utilize memory that they probably already owned for their PDA, MP3 player or digital camera. And finally, a really dumb move on their part, they do not make it possible for the PSP to natively display output onto another device like a TV or monitor. Why would I want to buy a movie for the PSP and then have to buy another copy (for the same price or less) to be able to watch it on the TV at home? It just doesn't make sense. So, what you end up with is a very capable game machine that has some multimedia capabilities instead of the must have multimedia unit that the PSP should have been, could have been.
Added to their woes is the constant slapping they receive from the Archos and Apple players in the market. Sure both of these units are different, more expensive and larger or smaller than the PSP; and not as much of a game machine as the PSP is. So, why consider them instead? Both the Archos and the Apple units are hard drive based so there is ample room to store content. Both units allow you to sync content from your computer (DRM and non-DRM) to the built-in hard drive. The Apple iPod video is simply the must have MP3 player on the planet. Rivals have come and gone and come again and no one has been able to knock it off its pedestal. The iPod has now added the ability to download (or compress with a utility) video from iTunes; the one service that really works the way it is advertised. There is a dock adapter that allows the iPod to show video on the TV. The reason that the iPod is rock solid is that it has always and continues to be drop dead simple to use and operate. The interface has yet to be bettered by ANY other competitor. Is it the most-featured unit available? No. Is it the best buy for the money? No. But this is the year 2006 and people do not have a lot of time. When someone buys something, they simply want it to work and the Apple series of products do exactly that. When Apple's rivals figure that out, maybe I will take a look at them; right now, it is iPod all the way for me.
The Archos unit is a different breed of animal. I will ask BT of MTL to give me a review, once she finishes reading her manual and actually uses the AV700 for a while. This unit is a 7" viewing monster (2.5" for the iPod video and 3.5" for the PSP). The iPod video has 30GB and 60GB models; the Archos AV700 unit can has a 40GB and a huge 100GB model. There are attachments that allow your USB-enabled digitsal camera to dump its pictures onto the internal hard drive of the Archos, a mini-camera that strapped onto a helmet or your arm for video recordings of your whereabouts (or other activities) and even the ability to add yet more external USB storage to feed content to the unit. It has the ability to record from TV and satellite and obviously the ability to display on the TV; it also plays about fourteen games, compared to the three on the iPod and the several gazillion on the PSP. It also plays for four hours on video, more than the PSP or the iPod Video (only about 2.5hrs a piece); you can also buy additional batteries, like the PSP but not the iPod series.
And all of this brings us to the next fight that Sony has on its hands: HD content. There are two formats battling it out and it brings up the nightmares of the DVD format wars (you remember DVD-R against DVD+R against DVD-RAM). In Sony's camp is the Blu-ray and in Toshiba's camp is HD-DVD. Besides a serious hate on for the way Sony does business, I like the HD-DVD version because it means machines that can be made backward compatible to current DVD formats since it uses the same basic components. What this means for avid DVD collectors like myself is no immediate need to scrap the thousand-plus library that they have amassed; a daunting prospect with the rival Blu-ray. Everything I have read says that if the two sides really got their heads out of their asses, they could combine the formats, lower the entry price on the first machines and make a ton of money right off the start. Instead, most of us will sit back and wait for the movie theatres to choose sides and either buy a machine that offers most of the movies we want or, and this is my route, tell them all to go f**k themselves until they catch a clue and deliver a single, unified format. Until that time, my money will continue to amass boxed sets for the library (as DW allows).
Ciao.
Universal Media Disc 'another Sony bomb' | Tech News on ZDNet
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Print Story: Muslim man asked to separate from wife after uttering word 'divorce' in sleep: report on Yahoo! Canada News
I read this story and two things popped into my twisted little head.
The first was, "Really? Is that all it takes to be free?" (Not for me of course because I absolutely love and adore my DW).
The second was, "Yet another example of when a woman cannot keep her mouth shut and just how much trouble it causes." Hey, don't hate the messenger. If I was her, and we had a good marriage of eleven years, and no better prospects were on the horizon, why the hell would I tell anyone what he said in his sleep?
Print Story: Muslim man asked to separate from wife after uttering word 'divorce' in sleep: report on Yahoo! Canada News
The first was, "Really? Is that all it takes to be free?" (Not for me of course because I absolutely love and adore my DW).
The second was, "Yet another example of when a woman cannot keep her mouth shut and just how much trouble it causes." Hey, don't hate the messenger. If I was her, and we had a good marriage of eleven years, and no better prospects were on the horizon, why the hell would I tell anyone what he said in his sleep?
Print Story: Muslim man asked to separate from wife after uttering word 'divorce' in sleep: report on Yahoo! Canada News
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
The Scorpion and the Frog
Most of us should know this old fable. And as the saying goes, those of us who ignore history are doomed to repeat it. I actually do believe that one can change one's nature over time. The thing is, sometimes it makes a situation worse, not better, when one is not true to one's self. It's not a matter of putting up masks but rather in belief. If you not not believe in your change, then it is worse than not changing at all. Just a little something to think about.
Peace.
The Scorpion and the Frog
Peace.
The Scorpion and the Frog
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
LED Rims :: Display Photos on Your Car Rims!
Given to me by MsMittens who knows me well enough to know I will SOOOOOO want them for TR, but knows DW well enough that she will SOOOOOOO block the purchase of them!!
LED Rims :: Display Photos on Your Car Rims!
LED Rims :: Display Photos on Your Car Rims!
Monday, March 27, 2006
Just one of those things.
So, DW, sweet sick soul that she is today (home from work due to a nasty thing she contracted and happily passed on to me in a less devastating form) comes down to the dungeon (basement computer hideaway) and asks which I would like, "Strogganoff or Lasagna."
"Excuse me?"
"Strogganoff or Lasagna", she repeats in this raspy voice that is sort of sounding like Katherine Hepburn in her heydey (which I dig).
I smiled and ask her to say it again, obviously playing with the slight double entendre. DW, knowing me so well, refuses to play along. So, I choose lasagna in the hopes of some strogganoff later on when she feels better. :)
And that would be the good part of the day, besides seeing Rabbit (who broguth timbits and a hot chocolate for me) for the first time in months, eating sushi for lunch at Syogun on Woodbine and generally having a nice day at work.
The bad part of the day is doing my job, which was going swimingly today as I am on secondary, until a P1 ticket that I started dealing with yesterday hit the fan today when a video conference died int he middle at a site, the site started going bonkers about it and our wonderful vendors, the dipshit dipwads that they can be, waste a whole lotta time when clearly told the site is down and needs immediate fixing.
It was so bad that at one point that after telling what is supposed to be a highly intelligent engineer "do whatever the hell you have to in order to fix it", he had the audacity to continue with "So, can we do an intrusive test? If so, we need a release." At which point, it was obvious that I was starting to lose it so I replied, emphatically to Mr. Asshat, "Yes, yes you have a release to take the circuit down now!" Even the other vendor dude was puzzled at which part of my original statement was confusing in its intent. For f**k sakes I hate stupid people.
Anyhow, I am hoep with the wife now. The nephew is popping in this evening and we will watch Deal or No Deal with yet another Canadian export to Hollywood's game show host ranks, Mr. Howie Mandel. Yes, THAT Howie Mandel; most recently seen in a bunch of East Side Mario commercials. He is actually perfectly suited in the role and rumour has it he initally rejected the offer completely but got hooked ont he simply premise and the fact that all ages could play along at home and enjoy it. Good for Howie!
OK, well that is it for today. Maybe I will post a weekend review. Maybe I will get a useful update from the land of the Asshats. We'll see which one comes first.
Ciao.
"Excuse me?"
"Strogganoff or Lasagna", she repeats in this raspy voice that is sort of sounding like Katherine Hepburn in her heydey (which I dig).
I smiled and ask her to say it again, obviously playing with the slight double entendre. DW, knowing me so well, refuses to play along. So, I choose lasagna in the hopes of some strogganoff later on when she feels better. :)
And that would be the good part of the day, besides seeing Rabbit (who broguth timbits and a hot chocolate for me) for the first time in months, eating sushi for lunch at Syogun on Woodbine and generally having a nice day at work.
The bad part of the day is doing my job, which was going swimingly today as I am on secondary, until a P1 ticket that I started dealing with yesterday hit the fan today when a video conference died int he middle at a site, the site started going bonkers about it and our wonderful vendors, the dipshit dipwads that they can be, waste a whole lotta time when clearly told the site is down and needs immediate fixing.
It was so bad that at one point that after telling what is supposed to be a highly intelligent engineer "do whatever the hell you have to in order to fix it", he had the audacity to continue with "So, can we do an intrusive test? If so, we need a release." At which point, it was obvious that I was starting to lose it so I replied, emphatically to Mr. Asshat, "Yes, yes you have a release to take the circuit down now!" Even the other vendor dude was puzzled at which part of my original statement was confusing in its intent. For f**k sakes I hate stupid people.
Anyhow, I am hoep with the wife now. The nephew is popping in this evening and we will watch Deal or No Deal with yet another Canadian export to Hollywood's game show host ranks, Mr. Howie Mandel. Yes, THAT Howie Mandel; most recently seen in a bunch of East Side Mario commercials. He is actually perfectly suited in the role and rumour has it he initally rejected the offer completely but got hooked ont he simply premise and the fact that all ages could play along at home and enjoy it. Good for Howie!
OK, well that is it for today. Maybe I will post a weekend review. Maybe I will get a useful update from the land of the Asshats. We'll see which one comes first.
Ciao.
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Mom accused of abducting kids, posing as dad
I bet she gets away with a slap on the wrist compared to if it were a man that did that!
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Mom accused of abducting kids, posing as dad
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Mom accused of abducting kids, posing as dad
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Saturday funnies
Now some may question why I would put this joke up. My answer would be that I am an equal opportunity person when it comes to slamming stereotypes and poking a nerve at a sore spot. The fact that I am a youngish, black male does not mean I would shy away from the fact that some of my dumber brethren are not so on the up and up. Enjoy this submission from BT of MTL.
______________________________________________
Subject: Fw: THE DIVORCEE
-------------------------
A divorcee in her early forties was sitting at a bar one night when she noticed a young, attractive black man just a few stools away. She'd never seen for herself if the stories about black men were true (ED note: they are), so she took the opportunity to buy the young stud a drink.
One drink led to another, and those led to the couple going back to the divorcee's apartment. Once there, the woman stripped naked, climbed into her bed, struck a sexy, come-hither look, and whispered, "OK, you gorgeous piece of chocolate. Show me what young black boys do best."
So he beat her up and stole her stereo.
______________________________________________
Submitted by AL
---------------
Subject: The War on Terrorism ... the Canadian Way
Now here is a great idea to hit the Taliban and Al Qaeda where it really hurts.
Darned clever, these Canadians?
America should consider changing their currency too!
Due to the global war on terrorism, many terrorist organizations have had their finances frozen. Consequently, they have resorted to counterfeiting.
The Canadians have decided to redesign their currency to prevent the radical Islamists from even touching it!? It is also hoped that this will have a positive effect on tourism:
That ought to do it!!!
______________________________________________
Subject: Fw: THE DIVORCEE
-------------------------
A divorcee in her early forties was sitting at a bar one night when she noticed a young, attractive black man just a few stools away. She'd never seen for herself if the stories about black men were true (ED note: they are), so she took the opportunity to buy the young stud a drink.
One drink led to another, and those led to the couple going back to the divorcee's apartment. Once there, the woman stripped naked, climbed into her bed, struck a sexy, come-hither look, and whispered, "OK, you gorgeous piece of chocolate. Show me what young black boys do best."
So he beat her up and stole her stereo.
______________________________________________
Submitted by AL
---------------
Subject: The War on Terrorism ... the Canadian Way
Now here is a great idea to hit the Taliban and Al Qaeda where it really hurts.
Darned clever, these Canadians?
America should consider changing their currency too!
Due to the global war on terrorism, many terrorist organizations have had their finances frozen. Consequently, they have resorted to counterfeiting.
The Canadians have decided to redesign their currency to prevent the radical Islamists from even touching it!? It is also hoped that this will have a positive effect on tourism:
That ought to do it!!!
Friday, March 24, 2006
OK, Last funnies for the day, honest
Subject: FW: Jesus is watching you
Jesus is watching you
A burglar broke into a house one night. He shined his flashlight around looking for valuables When he picked up a CD player to place in his sack, a strange, disembodied voice echoed from the dark, saying:
"Jesus is watching you."
He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his flashlight off and froze. When he heard nothing more after a bit, he shook his head, promised himself a vacation after the next big score, then clicked the light on and began searching for more valuables.
Just as he pulled the stereo out so he could disconnect the wires, clear as a bell he heard, "Jesus is watching you." Freaked out, he shined his light around frantically, looking for the source of the voice. Finally, in the corner of the room, his
flashlight beam came to rest on a parrot.
"Did you say that?" he hissed at the parrot. "Yep," the parrot confessed, then squawked, "I'm just trying to warn you."
The burglar relaxed. "Warn me, huh? Who in the world are you?"
"Moses," replied the bird.
"Moses?" the burglar laughed. "What kind of people would name a bird Moses?"
"The kind of people that would name a rottweiler Jesus".
______________________________________________
Subject: When Graphic Artists Get Bored....
Jesus is watching you
A burglar broke into a house one night. He shined his flashlight around looking for valuables When he picked up a CD player to place in his sack, a strange, disembodied voice echoed from the dark, saying:
"Jesus is watching you."
He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his flashlight off and froze. When he heard nothing more after a bit, he shook his head, promised himself a vacation after the next big score, then clicked the light on and began searching for more valuables.
Just as he pulled the stereo out so he could disconnect the wires, clear as a bell he heard, "Jesus is watching you." Freaked out, he shined his light around frantically, looking for the source of the voice. Finally, in the corner of the room, his
flashlight beam came to rest on a parrot.
"Did you say that?" he hissed at the parrot. "Yep," the parrot confessed, then squawked, "I'm just trying to warn you."
The burglar relaxed. "Warn me, huh? Who in the world are you?"
"Moses," replied the bird.
"Moses?" the burglar laughed. "What kind of people would name a bird Moses?"
"The kind of people that would name a rottweiler Jesus".
______________________________________________
Subject: When Graphic Artists Get Bored....
More Friday Funnies
Submitted by AL and one that Skibum will love
----------------------------------------
President Bush recently went to a primary school in Macon, Georgia, to talk about the world. After his talk, he asked if the children had any questions. One little boy put up his hand, and the president asked him his name.
"Kenneth."
"And what is your question, Kenneth?"
"I have three questions:
1 ... Whatever happened to the weapons of mass destruction?
2 ... Why did you give a tax break to the super wealthy?
3 ... Did you steal votes to win both elections?"
Just then the bell rang for recess. President Bush informed the kiddies that they would continue after recess.
When they resumed, the President said "OK, where were we? Oh, that's right, question time. Who has a question?"
A different little boy put his hand up.
Bush pointed him out and asked him his name.
"Larry."
"And what is your question, Larry?"
"I have five questions:
1 ...Whatever happened to the weapons of mass destruction?
2 ..Why did you give a tax break to the super wealthy?
3 ...Did you steal votes to win both elections?
4 ...Why did the recess bell go off 20 minutes early?
5 ...What's happened to Kenneth?"
_____________________________________________________
Also submitted by AL
------------------------------------------
Subject: Those Born 1930-1979!
Sometimes I am sorry for the Kids now. We really had it great. However could it be that too much knowledge isn't all that much fun.
Those Born 1930-1979!
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's !!
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.
They took aspirin, valium, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.
As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.
We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank kool aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because... WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!
We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.
No one was able to reach us all day.
And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet or chat rooms... WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!
Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of.
They actually sided with the law ( not to mention the teachers with the yardsticks)!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of them . . . CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.
And while you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.
Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!!
_______________________________________________
Last AL contribution for today.
-------------------------------
Picture taken of an equal rights demonstration at the Oshawa Golf & Country Club in 1993, rumor has it the man in the background was the greens keeper......
----------------------------------------
President Bush recently went to a primary school in Macon, Georgia, to talk about the world. After his talk, he asked if the children had any questions. One little boy put up his hand, and the president asked him his name.
"Kenneth."
"And what is your question, Kenneth?"
"I have three questions:
1 ... Whatever happened to the weapons of mass destruction?
2 ... Why did you give a tax break to the super wealthy?
3 ... Did you steal votes to win both elections?"
Just then the bell rang for recess. President Bush informed the kiddies that they would continue after recess.
When they resumed, the President said "OK, where were we? Oh, that's right, question time. Who has a question?"
A different little boy put his hand up.
Bush pointed him out and asked him his name.
"Larry."
"And what is your question, Larry?"
"I have five questions:
1 ...Whatever happened to the weapons of mass destruction?
2 ..Why did you give a tax break to the super wealthy?
3 ...Did you steal votes to win both elections?
4 ...Why did the recess bell go off 20 minutes early?
5 ...What's happened to Kenneth?"
_____________________________________________________
Also submitted by AL
------------------------------------------
Subject: Those Born 1930-1979!
Sometimes I am sorry for the Kids now. We really had it great. However could it be that too much knowledge isn't all that much fun.
Those Born 1930-1979!
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's !!
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.
They took aspirin, valium, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.
As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.
We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank kool aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because... WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!
We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.
No one was able to reach us all day.
And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet or chat rooms... WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!
Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of.
They actually sided with the law ( not to mention the teachers with the yardsticks)!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of them . . . CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.
And while you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.
Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!!
_______________________________________________
Last AL contribution for today.
-------------------------------
Picture taken of an equal rights demonstration at the Oshawa Golf & Country Club in 1993, rumor has it the man in the background was the greens keeper......
Friday Funnies
Submitted by BT in MTL
----------------------------------
Subject: TAROT CARDS
In the dark and gloomy room, gazing at the Tarot cards laid out before
her, the Tarot reader delivered the bad news; "There is no easy way to tell you this so I'll just be blunt. Prepare yourself to be a widow. Your husband will die a quick,violent and horrible death this year."
Visibly shaken, the woman stared at the Tarot cards, the psychic's lined face, then at the single flickering candle, then down at her trembling hands. She took a few deep breaths to try to compose herself. She simply had to know.
She met the Tarot reader's gaze, steadied her voice, and asked: "Will I get away with it?
_________________________________________________
Seen on Two and a Half Men on CBS (sortof)
---------------------------------
Two muffins are in a tin in the oven. One muffin turns to the other and says, "Geez, it's getting really hot in here."
The other muffin, startled, yells out, "Holy shit! A talking muffin!"
__________________________________________________
And finally, submitted by AL, possibly a true email, possibly a tall tale/urban legend. You be the judge. Enjoy your weekend either way. Peace.
----------------------------------
The following is an e-mail going around NYC. The first part is a girl's apology email for cheating. The second portion is his hilarious reply which was forwarded to HIS entire address book and is now circulating everywhere:
Brad,
It would be difficult for me to be any more miserable right now, I feel like the worst person ever. First, let me start by saying that I am truly truly sorry, and I hate myself for hurting you. Of all the people in the whole entire world, you were honestly the last person that I would ever want to wrong in any way. There is no excuse at all or anything that happened, so I won't even try other than to say all of us had WAY too much to drink, and I did a stupid thing. I can handle you being pissed at me, I absolutely deserve it, I can even handle the ugly words that were exchanged between us, what I can't handle is thinking that you see me as a different person.
It is weird, I feel like I just went through a horrible break up or something. The world looked funny yesterday, I couldn't crack a smile if you paid me, there are songs I can't listen to, and I just feel beyond crushed. I don't know if you meant everything you said to me, and I am hoping that you didn't. I know that I was wrong on many levels, but I am also hoping that this is something that we can deal with. I know it sounds totally crazy and stupid, but you have come to play such a significant role in my life, I can't imagine my days without you. It is totally strange and weird to say that, and you could say that my behavior didn't reflect that, and you would be correct. I hate feeling like you hate me, and I hate feeling like all of your friends think I am a terrible person, because I am not.
I know there is nothing I can say or do to take back what happened, but I just want you to know that fighting with you was just about the worst thing I could have ever imagined. It was right up there with one of the ugliest nights of my life, and I would give anything in the world to rewind and fix it. I am not sure if you will respond to this, part of me thinks that you won't. If not today, then maybe some other time. Also, thanks for getting my stuff together, although I think my sunglasses are still at your house, if you could keep your eyes peeled for them that would be great. I can't even focus or work today, I can't eat, I seriously feel like it was an ugly break up, and I am hoping against hopes that it was not that and you are not done with me. Please don't cut me off, I really don't think I can handle that. I am so sorry.
Elizabeth
Now his reply...
Dear Elizabeth,
Thank you for your concern. I'll be sure to file it away under "L" for "Long-winded diatribes from drunken whores I couldn't care less about". You did a stupid thing huh? No...doing long division and forgetting to carry the one is "a stupid thing"; Mixing in a red sock with a load of whites is "a stupid thing"; Blowing some guy in a bathroom for 45 minutes while I sit at the bar wondering if you're taking so long because you ate too much bran that morning isn't as much a "Stupid thing" as it is grounds for permanent removal from my social calendar.
To be honest, I'm not sure if it was more amusing that you went and degraded yourself in a public toilet not once but twice in a 2 hour span, or that you seemed to think that by saying "Well, I didn't F**k him" somehow gave you a clean slate. So forgive me if I couldn't care less if the world "looked funny" to you yesterday.
Since your world revolves around blow dryers, golden retrievers, Prada Bags and Jelly Beans, I'm sure it must have been most unsettling to actually have to consider someone else's feelings for 24 hours straight. The good news for you is that my friends don't think you're a terrible person, they just think you're the average run of the mill cum-guzzling blond who commands about as much respect as your average child porn collector.
I could be wrong but, it's pretty hard to respect some B&T chick who comes out to spend the night at my place even though she's seeing someone else in New Jersey and winds up tongue-bathing the taint of anyone who decides 30 minutes of droning commentary on Colin Farrell's new haircut is worth putting up with for a hand job in the men's room. The good thing about being a guy is that when I eventually bump into the young lad who finger-blasted you on top of a towel dispenser last Saturday, we'll have a shot and laugh our heads off about the time it happened.
By the way, for the amount of time you claim to spend in spin class you really must be doing something wrong to sport the thunder thighs you do. Watching you parade around my bedroom in a thong was a little like watching sea lions mate. Thought you might like to know.
PS. I forwarded about 100 people on this email.
Talk to you never,
Brad
----------------------------------
Subject: TAROT CARDS
In the dark and gloomy room, gazing at the Tarot cards laid out before
her, the Tarot reader delivered the bad news; "There is no easy way to tell you this so I'll just be blunt. Prepare yourself to be a widow. Your husband will die a quick,violent and horrible death this year."
Visibly shaken, the woman stared at the Tarot cards, the psychic's lined face, then at the single flickering candle, then down at her trembling hands. She took a few deep breaths to try to compose herself. She simply had to know.
She met the Tarot reader's gaze, steadied her voice, and asked: "Will I get away with it?
_________________________________________________
Seen on Two and a Half Men on CBS (sortof)
---------------------------------
Two muffins are in a tin in the oven. One muffin turns to the other and says, "Geez, it's getting really hot in here."
The other muffin, startled, yells out, "Holy shit! A talking muffin!"
__________________________________________________
And finally, submitted by AL, possibly a true email, possibly a tall tale/urban legend. You be the judge. Enjoy your weekend either way. Peace.
----------------------------------
The following is an e-mail going around NYC. The first part is a girl's apology email for cheating. The second portion is his hilarious reply which was forwarded to HIS entire address book and is now circulating everywhere:
Brad,
It would be difficult for me to be any more miserable right now, I feel like the worst person ever. First, let me start by saying that I am truly truly sorry, and I hate myself for hurting you. Of all the people in the whole entire world, you were honestly the last person that I would ever want to wrong in any way. There is no excuse at all or anything that happened, so I won't even try other than to say all of us had WAY too much to drink, and I did a stupid thing. I can handle you being pissed at me, I absolutely deserve it, I can even handle the ugly words that were exchanged between us, what I can't handle is thinking that you see me as a different person.
It is weird, I feel like I just went through a horrible break up or something. The world looked funny yesterday, I couldn't crack a smile if you paid me, there are songs I can't listen to, and I just feel beyond crushed. I don't know if you meant everything you said to me, and I am hoping that you didn't. I know that I was wrong on many levels, but I am also hoping that this is something that we can deal with. I know it sounds totally crazy and stupid, but you have come to play such a significant role in my life, I can't imagine my days without you. It is totally strange and weird to say that, and you could say that my behavior didn't reflect that, and you would be correct. I hate feeling like you hate me, and I hate feeling like all of your friends think I am a terrible person, because I am not.
I know there is nothing I can say or do to take back what happened, but I just want you to know that fighting with you was just about the worst thing I could have ever imagined. It was right up there with one of the ugliest nights of my life, and I would give anything in the world to rewind and fix it. I am not sure if you will respond to this, part of me thinks that you won't. If not today, then maybe some other time. Also, thanks for getting my stuff together, although I think my sunglasses are still at your house, if you could keep your eyes peeled for them that would be great. I can't even focus or work today, I can't eat, I seriously feel like it was an ugly break up, and I am hoping against hopes that it was not that and you are not done with me. Please don't cut me off, I really don't think I can handle that. I am so sorry.
Elizabeth
Now his reply...
Dear Elizabeth,
Thank you for your concern. I'll be sure to file it away under "L" for "Long-winded diatribes from drunken whores I couldn't care less about". You did a stupid thing huh? No...doing long division and forgetting to carry the one is "a stupid thing"; Mixing in a red sock with a load of whites is "a stupid thing"; Blowing some guy in a bathroom for 45 minutes while I sit at the bar wondering if you're taking so long because you ate too much bran that morning isn't as much a "Stupid thing" as it is grounds for permanent removal from my social calendar.
To be honest, I'm not sure if it was more amusing that you went and degraded yourself in a public toilet not once but twice in a 2 hour span, or that you seemed to think that by saying "Well, I didn't F**k him" somehow gave you a clean slate. So forgive me if I couldn't care less if the world "looked funny" to you yesterday.
Since your world revolves around blow dryers, golden retrievers, Prada Bags and Jelly Beans, I'm sure it must have been most unsettling to actually have to consider someone else's feelings for 24 hours straight. The good news for you is that my friends don't think you're a terrible person, they just think you're the average run of the mill cum-guzzling blond who commands about as much respect as your average child porn collector.
I could be wrong but, it's pretty hard to respect some B&T chick who comes out to spend the night at my place even though she's seeing someone else in New Jersey and winds up tongue-bathing the taint of anyone who decides 30 minutes of droning commentary on Colin Farrell's new haircut is worth putting up with for a hand job in the men's room. The good thing about being a guy is that when I eventually bump into the young lad who finger-blasted you on top of a towel dispenser last Saturday, we'll have a shot and laugh our heads off about the time it happened.
By the way, for the amount of time you claim to spend in spin class you really must be doing something wrong to sport the thunder thighs you do. Watching you parade around my bedroom in a thong was a little like watching sea lions mate. Thought you might like to know.
PS. I forwarded about 100 people on this email.
Talk to you never,
Brad
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Still have t do my March Break summary but..
had to report on this bugger of a day.
So, I go to sleep this morning around 4:30AM, typical for me, and apparently had a restless sleep. I only remember not being near DW as I seemingly hurled myself to the other side of the bed. Well, it turns out I was shoved/kicked/pursuaded to go there by DW because I was whacking her in the head (a new hobby it seems). So, less than four hours of sleep later, I was up doing some work and getting ready to head to the dentist's office.
This is our new family dentist, Dr. Goren, since my old family dentist is a big a-hole, nancy-ass, girly-man of a gossiping shit; but I digress. Dr. Goren's office is not the ultramodern suites popping up but it is nicely laid out with a very cool staff who remembers my name after only two visits. They make one feel comfortable even when you know you are about to have strange hands running through your mouth. Today was my routine teeth cleaning, an arduous chore of trying to remove over a decade of neglect and build-up. I had always prided myself on the condition of my teeth despite not seeing a dentist. Now, I need to have my wisdom teeth removed to help stop my grinding (nervous habit), wearing of adjacent teeth and to help prevent future complications. I have to get my front tooth refilled because the cheap-ass silver my last dentist used discoloured it (as apparently all dentists know and have made sure their patients have changed it to the new white filling). I have had to have the cleaning done to reduce the bleeding of the gums (much better now). And now, today, I got a new x-ray which revealed the horror of horrors in a front area: I developed a cavity!!
I know you all think this is no big deal as you wear you multiple fillings and crowns and train tracks and everything else as proud badges. For me though this is a major blow to the ego and another clear indication that I stopped taking proper care of myself. I have NEVER EVER had a cavity in my life and this is with my penchant for eating the sweetest of sweet stuff. A &^%*& CAVITY?!?!??! I'm almost forty for goodness sake. This is not supposed to happen now. Sigh. Fine. Filling happens Tuesday.
So, I decide I may head into work directly and I made my way up the DVP. it was nearly lunch time and I had nothing in my system so as to be clean-mouthed for the dentist so I was starving. I popped into Quiznos on Woodbine when I was approached by two white guys in a large white SUV or Pick-up with cab. I mention that they were white because some crazy shit has been happening in the T-dot these days so you cannot be too careful when someone yells out at you (never know when mistaken identity gets your ass capped). Anyhow, these two yahoos are riding around with, supposedly, two full home stereos that they want to get rid of. Again, lots of stuff going on and I aint getting caught in stuff I am not sure about so I politely declined stating that I was covered (which they acknowledged as they commented on TR as I walked away from her) and they drove off. Hell, it is not even summertime yet and the rolling selling wagons are out and about.
I thought it was a strange enough day so I took my regular-sized, toasted, prime-rib sub and chocolate milk back home and continued to work from there. Day is not over yet so let's see what else it has for me. :)
Ciao.
So, I go to sleep this morning around 4:30AM, typical for me, and apparently had a restless sleep. I only remember not being near DW as I seemingly hurled myself to the other side of the bed. Well, it turns out I was shoved/kicked/pursuaded to go there by DW because I was whacking her in the head (a new hobby it seems). So, less than four hours of sleep later, I was up doing some work and getting ready to head to the dentist's office.
This is our new family dentist, Dr. Goren, since my old family dentist is a big a-hole, nancy-ass, girly-man of a gossiping shit; but I digress. Dr. Goren's office is not the ultramodern suites popping up but it is nicely laid out with a very cool staff who remembers my name after only two visits. They make one feel comfortable even when you know you are about to have strange hands running through your mouth. Today was my routine teeth cleaning, an arduous chore of trying to remove over a decade of neglect and build-up. I had always prided myself on the condition of my teeth despite not seeing a dentist. Now, I need to have my wisdom teeth removed to help stop my grinding (nervous habit), wearing of adjacent teeth and to help prevent future complications. I have to get my front tooth refilled because the cheap-ass silver my last dentist used discoloured it (as apparently all dentists know and have made sure their patients have changed it to the new white filling). I have had to have the cleaning done to reduce the bleeding of the gums (much better now). And now, today, I got a new x-ray which revealed the horror of horrors in a front area: I developed a cavity!!
I know you all think this is no big deal as you wear you multiple fillings and crowns and train tracks and everything else as proud badges. For me though this is a major blow to the ego and another clear indication that I stopped taking proper care of myself. I have NEVER EVER had a cavity in my life and this is with my penchant for eating the sweetest of sweet stuff. A &^%*& CAVITY?!?!??! I'm almost forty for goodness sake. This is not supposed to happen now. Sigh. Fine. Filling happens Tuesday.
So, I decide I may head into work directly and I made my way up the DVP. it was nearly lunch time and I had nothing in my system so as to be clean-mouthed for the dentist so I was starving. I popped into Quiznos on Woodbine when I was approached by two white guys in a large white SUV or Pick-up with cab. I mention that they were white because some crazy shit has been happening in the T-dot these days so you cannot be too careful when someone yells out at you (never know when mistaken identity gets your ass capped). Anyhow, these two yahoos are riding around with, supposedly, two full home stereos that they want to get rid of. Again, lots of stuff going on and I aint getting caught in stuff I am not sure about so I politely declined stating that I was covered (which they acknowledged as they commented on TR as I walked away from her) and they drove off. Hell, it is not even summertime yet and the rolling selling wagons are out and about.
I thought it was a strange enough day so I took my regular-sized, toasted, prime-rib sub and chocolate milk back home and continued to work from there. Day is not over yet so let's see what else it has for me. :)
Ciao.
Monday, March 20, 2006
CBC Manitoba - Police issue warning after GM vehicles stolen
As if the poor Roo did not have enough concerns.
CBC Manitoba - Police issue warning after GM vehicles stolen
CBC Manitoba - Police issue warning after GM vehicles stolen
Saturday, March 18, 2006
BBC NEWS | Americas | Seven killed in Uruguay TV stunt
Submitted by Famine
-------------------
This is what happens when low budgets for ratings is allowed. And three thousand children saw this too? Very sad. You can check Canoe.ca as well for this story.
BBC NEWS | Americas | Seven killed in Uruguay TV stunt
-------------------
This is what happens when low budgets for ratings is allowed. And three thousand children saw this too? Very sad. You can check Canoe.ca as well for this story.
BBC NEWS | Americas | Seven killed in Uruguay TV stunt
Friday, March 17, 2006
CANOE -- JAM! - 'South Park'-Scientology battle rages
At least it is in the open now; the supposedly forward thinking Scientologists are hypocritical as much as the other religious groups.
This week, Isaac Hayes, the voice of Chef since the start of South Park, has quit the show saying he can no longer tolerate the show and its treatment of religion. Really? Seriously? Hmm, let's examine this a bit.
The very first show had Cartman riffing on Kyle about him being Jewish. Then, they had Santa fighting Jesus Christ for control of Christmas. Nope, all is good here. Several more shows with Cartman seriously going after his Jewish "friend", with the worst/best of the lot in the episode with Kyle and Kyle II. It is one so bad that it actually makes DW cringe but I laugh my fool head off because I am so beyond the trappings of religion as a lay observer.
Oh, let us not forget the way they have nailed the Mormons, the Buddhists, the Protestants, the Blacks, the Rich, the Poor, the Homosexuals and yes, even the Muslims (funny as hell show aimed at finding Osama). Almost all of which good old Chef had a direct hand, or was a part of in some way.
NINE YEARS later, this hypocrite is now crying foul because one of his wacko fellow members (a MR. Chair-bouncing-cradle-robbing Cruise) brought the only-for-the-rich religion into the spotlight again and the South Park crew, true to form, nails them to the wall? Unreal. I like his music, I loved him as chef, but if he wants to cop out like this, he can kiss my ass and I hope Stone and Parker nails his ass to the wall in an appropriate episode.
I think they should do an episode in which Chef cannot actually speak because his own chocolate, salty balls have been stuffed firmly in his mouth while all the women he took advantage of over the years pleasures him right to death. A fitting end for an important character and a message filled scene for the former voice of said character.
We'll miss you Chef, but long live South Park without you.
CANOE -- JAM! - 'South Park'-Scientology battle rages
This week, Isaac Hayes, the voice of Chef since the start of South Park, has quit the show saying he can no longer tolerate the show and its treatment of religion. Really? Seriously? Hmm, let's examine this a bit.
The very first show had Cartman riffing on Kyle about him being Jewish. Then, they had Santa fighting Jesus Christ for control of Christmas. Nope, all is good here. Several more shows with Cartman seriously going after his Jewish "friend", with the worst/best of the lot in the episode with Kyle and Kyle II. It is one so bad that it actually makes DW cringe but I laugh my fool head off because I am so beyond the trappings of religion as a lay observer.
Oh, let us not forget the way they have nailed the Mormons, the Buddhists, the Protestants, the Blacks, the Rich, the Poor, the Homosexuals and yes, even the Muslims (funny as hell show aimed at finding Osama). Almost all of which good old Chef had a direct hand, or was a part of in some way.
NINE YEARS later, this hypocrite is now crying foul because one of his wacko fellow members (a MR. Chair-bouncing-cradle-robbing Cruise) brought the only-for-the-rich religion into the spotlight again and the South Park crew, true to form, nails them to the wall? Unreal. I like his music, I loved him as chef, but if he wants to cop out like this, he can kiss my ass and I hope Stone and Parker nails his ass to the wall in an appropriate episode.
I think they should do an episode in which Chef cannot actually speak because his own chocolate, salty balls have been stuffed firmly in his mouth while all the women he took advantage of over the years pleasures him right to death. A fitting end for an important character and a message filled scene for the former voice of said character.
We'll miss you Chef, but long live South Park without you.
CANOE -- JAM! - 'South Park'-Scientology battle rages
Reuters AlertNet - Hot pepper kills prostate cancer cells in study
So men, if you want to reduce the finger exams and you want to keep everything intact, then learn to eat hot foods regularly.
Reuters AlertNet - Hot pepper kills prostate cancer cells in study
Reuters AlertNet - Hot pepper kills prostate cancer cells in study
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
A good-natured rebuttal
Recently, Penny Shagwell posted about her disdain for Pamela Anderson, her hosting of the Junos (the Canadian Grammies) and the various PETA causes she triumphs. While some of all that bugs me too, I cannot say that I quite agree with PS. I will explain why.
The whole deal in Hollywood is that fame is fleeting and you better get what you can while you can. Where is Ally Sheedy? What happened to Jo from 'Facts of Life'? Who is Jasmine Bleeth and what is she doing now? Who and where are the other people from V.I.P? Chances are, you may be able to answer one of those questions; chances are you will not be able to answer a single one without Googling for it. And that is my exact point.
From being discovered at a CFL football game (Argooooooooooooooos), to being cast in a beer commercial, to getting on the cover of Playboy, to co-starring in Baywatch, to being on the cover of Playboy again, to doing Playboy videos, Playboy specials and hanging out at the mansion, to being one of the most downloaded images on the planet, to launching her own TV vehicle (the aforementioned V.I.P.), to appearing on the cover again, to starring in her own movie, to starring in her own animated TV show, to launching her own sitcom (which is actually pretty funny at times), to being the face of PETA, to be a Playboy cover again (she has appeared 11 times on the cover of Playboy magazine (1989-2004)), to whatever else she is going to do in the future... one cannot deny that Pamela Anderson has staying power. No scandal (come on now, the porn scenes were not that bad and she did have a heck of a "part" to deal with) has diminished her, no critics review has halted her, no amount of naysayers saying once she grows old her boobs won't matter has deterred her. How many stars from her era can claim that? (Note: for some more career info, check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pamela_Anderson)
While I agree that the whole "super boobs" thing is a bit played out, that her looks are getting more and more manufactured as time rolls on (unlike Sela Ward whom I has asked DW to allow me a trist with) and that her pushing her PETA views everywhere and on to everyone is a big turn off, no one can call her dim, or vapid or stupid. She is where she is in the foodchain of Hollywood because she has made some very smart moves over the years and she continues to do so. The fact that we are discussing her now and not "Laura Ingle" speaks volumes.
I think the obsession with stars in general is fairly stupid. I love seeing their work, but they are human like the rest and the pedestals need to be broken down. That said, like highly paid athletes, you never know when the train is going to stop or end abruptly so ride it while you can and get what you can as long as someone is willing to give it to you. For this, you simply cannot fault Ms. Anderson, or that annoying Paul Schaffer or that Jim Carrey dude, or Mr. Shatner and his Priceline ads or the best ambassador of the entire lot, Mr. Canadian, Mike Myers.
Oh, and simply to help my fellow blogger out, I found the pictures that PS could not get posted. I have posted them below for you, and a couple of others, to enjoy. :)
----------------------------------
Here are the beer ads she appeared in:
-----------------------------------
Here is proof that Pamela is not as "dirty" as some people think (see? not afraid of water):
-----------------------------------
Pamela showing her patriotic side by wearing red and white:
(NOTE: for some more posters check out http://www.thewallpapers.org/celebrities/pamela_anderson.php and http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/3142/pamela.htm)
The whole deal in Hollywood is that fame is fleeting and you better get what you can while you can. Where is Ally Sheedy? What happened to Jo from 'Facts of Life'? Who is Jasmine Bleeth and what is she doing now? Who and where are the other people from V.I.P? Chances are, you may be able to answer one of those questions; chances are you will not be able to answer a single one without Googling for it. And that is my exact point.
From being discovered at a CFL football game (Argooooooooooooooos), to being cast in a beer commercial, to getting on the cover of Playboy, to co-starring in Baywatch, to being on the cover of Playboy again, to doing Playboy videos, Playboy specials and hanging out at the mansion, to being one of the most downloaded images on the planet, to launching her own TV vehicle (the aforementioned V.I.P.), to appearing on the cover again, to starring in her own movie, to starring in her own animated TV show, to launching her own sitcom (which is actually pretty funny at times), to being the face of PETA, to be a Playboy cover again (she has appeared 11 times on the cover of Playboy magazine (1989-2004)), to whatever else she is going to do in the future... one cannot deny that Pamela Anderson has staying power. No scandal (come on now, the porn scenes were not that bad and she did have a heck of a "part" to deal with) has diminished her, no critics review has halted her, no amount of naysayers saying once she grows old her boobs won't matter has deterred her. How many stars from her era can claim that? (Note: for some more career info, check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pamela_Anderson)
While I agree that the whole "super boobs" thing is a bit played out, that her looks are getting more and more manufactured as time rolls on (unlike Sela Ward whom I has asked DW to allow me a trist with) and that her pushing her PETA views everywhere and on to everyone is a big turn off, no one can call her dim, or vapid or stupid. She is where she is in the foodchain of Hollywood because she has made some very smart moves over the years and she continues to do so. The fact that we are discussing her now and not "Laura Ingle" speaks volumes.
I think the obsession with stars in general is fairly stupid. I love seeing their work, but they are human like the rest and the pedestals need to be broken down. That said, like highly paid athletes, you never know when the train is going to stop or end abruptly so ride it while you can and get what you can as long as someone is willing to give it to you. For this, you simply cannot fault Ms. Anderson, or that annoying Paul Schaffer or that Jim Carrey dude, or Mr. Shatner and his Priceline ads or the best ambassador of the entire lot, Mr. Canadian, Mike Myers.
Oh, and simply to help my fellow blogger out, I found the pictures that PS could not get posted. I have posted them below for you, and a couple of others, to enjoy. :)
----------------------------------
Here are the beer ads she appeared in:
-----------------------------------
Here is proof that Pamela is not as "dirty" as some people think (see? not afraid of water):
-----------------------------------
Pamela showing her patriotic side by wearing red and white:
(NOTE: for some more posters check out http://www.thewallpapers.org/celebrities/pamela_anderson.php and http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/3142/pamela.htm)
Mac Guides: Gallery of Video iPod Mockups
Rumour has it that I will have to wait until NEXT April before a Video iPod (not to be confused with the iPod Video currently on sale) will be made available to the public. That said, it is nice to dream sometimes and this site is making me salivate for what woul dbe the next purchase from the Apple family for my family.
Enjoy.
Mac Guides: Gallery of Video iPod Mockups
Enjoy.
Mac Guides: Gallery of Video iPod Mockups
Mac Rumors: French Law to Open iTunes?
Leave it to the French to screw up the works. There are better ways to make changes to a business model than to try and force that model in your little area via a new law. I did not need to read anything to know that it attempting this, the response from Apple will predictably be to shutdown the service in that area. This is only going to hurt the French consumers, not force Apple to do anything.
Once again, the focus is on the wrong people. Apple's response will not be against the consumers, but for it's relationship with the music and movie industry. In order to ensure that Apple continues to receive their support, Apple must ensure that the way they secure those files remains intact. This proposed law would change that and until a true fair use law comes into play in the US (yeah right) Apple will have no choice but to walk away from France.
Simply a bone-headed move on France's part.
Ciao.
Mac Rumors: French Law to Open iTunes?
Once again, the focus is on the wrong people. Apple's response will not be against the consumers, but for it's relationship with the music and movie industry. In order to ensure that Apple continues to receive their support, Apple must ensure that the way they secure those files remains intact. This proposed law would change that and until a true fair use law comes into play in the US (yeah right) Apple will have no choice but to walk away from France.
Simply a bone-headed move on France's part.
Ciao.
Mac Rumors: French Law to Open iTunes?
March Break - Part One - Snow, glorious snow.
This is just a placeholder for the moment. I keep forgetting to post the info and I do not want it to go so far that the info is useless. So, let me formulate the thoughts and pick a couple of shots to share with the masses. BIAB.
Windows genuine validation is dimmed ?!!! - Bink.nu Forums
Well, it seems that Microsoft now sees the horizon with Vista coming to be clear enough for them to make the move to block the updates to any Windows system that does not pass genuine validation. Now, while I am all for the company trying to protect its works, it may really want to think about this plan of attack on piracy.
There are lots of genuine users out there, who paid good money for the OD or paid to have it bundled with the new system, that want nothing to do with anything that they cannot control on their system put forth by Microsoft; in short, they simply do not trust them. I would be one of these people and for them to take away my choice not to validate my store bought OS (just like I refuse to register any of my MS programs) is just one more reason for me to tell them to go f**k themselves.
Oh, I'll get to use Vista as my job will inevitably suck some more on that golf-inspired teat offered by Microsoft salespeople, but I will not pay for the new OS and will make more permanent my change over to alternate means to enjoy my favourite hobby.
Bill and crew can buy yachts and such on someone else's coin. My coin will remain in my pocket until someone can deliver the goods that I want; a stable, featured, reasonably priced operating system.
Right now, Steve Jobs and his crew are tempting me something fierce with Tiger and the upcoming release of OS X 10.5 Leopard. In using Tiger now with the Mac mini I have from work, I can tell you that I could essentially walk away from Microsoft and be able to continue working as I do and pretty much do anything that I need to do now. And therein lies the rub: I can do what I need to do not what I want to do. What do I want to do?
I want to be able to run a gameserver and play networked games with Famine, MsMittens, KingQ and others. Games like Duke Nukem in 3D, Starcraft, Quake and Unreal Tournament. Sure, most if not all games are eventually released in Mac form, and sure, you can use new high-end graphic cards on current Mac machines, but the versatility and ability to "roll your own" is not present in Jobs' world.
See, I can take my low-end crappy PC box and buy various upgrades to make it viable for gaming. Motherboard, cpu, memory, hard drive, optical drive, cooling, case, graphics, sound. I can pick and choose the components I want and can afford. I can hobble the system together and make it all work to the level that I am comfortable with. And I can do it all cheaper than what it costs to get a comparable Mac machine with a very strict upgrade path (typically, buy the next model up). Macs moving to the Intel platform may help this a little bit but not much until I can walk into a store and buy the OS to install on the equipment of my choosing. I can do this with Windows. I can do this with Linux. I can do this with various forms of UNIX (including Sun OS and BSD, the foundation of Mac OS X). So, it is possible for Apple to do this; maybe not to the extent of Microsoft so as to limit the incompatibility problems, but definitely better than the option we have now.
Time will tell where the computing world is headed. Personally, I will be standing on the banks watching the wave roll in to hit those poor saps who did not see it coming.
Ciao.
Windows genuine validation is dimmed ?!!! - Bink.nu Forums
There are lots of genuine users out there, who paid good money for the OD or paid to have it bundled with the new system, that want nothing to do with anything that they cannot control on their system put forth by Microsoft; in short, they simply do not trust them. I would be one of these people and for them to take away my choice not to validate my store bought OS (just like I refuse to register any of my MS programs) is just one more reason for me to tell them to go f**k themselves.
Oh, I'll get to use Vista as my job will inevitably suck some more on that golf-inspired teat offered by Microsoft salespeople, but I will not pay for the new OS and will make more permanent my change over to alternate means to enjoy my favourite hobby.
Bill and crew can buy yachts and such on someone else's coin. My coin will remain in my pocket until someone can deliver the goods that I want; a stable, featured, reasonably priced operating system.
Right now, Steve Jobs and his crew are tempting me something fierce with Tiger and the upcoming release of OS X 10.5 Leopard. In using Tiger now with the Mac mini I have from work, I can tell you that I could essentially walk away from Microsoft and be able to continue working as I do and pretty much do anything that I need to do now. And therein lies the rub: I can do what I need to do not what I want to do. What do I want to do?
I want to be able to run a gameserver and play networked games with Famine, MsMittens, KingQ and others. Games like Duke Nukem in 3D, Starcraft, Quake and Unreal Tournament. Sure, most if not all games are eventually released in Mac form, and sure, you can use new high-end graphic cards on current Mac machines, but the versatility and ability to "roll your own" is not present in Jobs' world.
See, I can take my low-end crappy PC box and buy various upgrades to make it viable for gaming. Motherboard, cpu, memory, hard drive, optical drive, cooling, case, graphics, sound. I can pick and choose the components I want and can afford. I can hobble the system together and make it all work to the level that I am comfortable with. And I can do it all cheaper than what it costs to get a comparable Mac machine with a very strict upgrade path (typically, buy the next model up). Macs moving to the Intel platform may help this a little bit but not much until I can walk into a store and buy the OS to install on the equipment of my choosing. I can do this with Windows. I can do this with Linux. I can do this with various forms of UNIX (including Sun OS and BSD, the foundation of Mac OS X). So, it is possible for Apple to do this; maybe not to the extent of Microsoft so as to limit the incompatibility problems, but definitely better than the option we have now.
Time will tell where the computing world is headed. Personally, I will be standing on the banks watching the wave roll in to hit those poor saps who did not see it coming.
Ciao.
Windows genuine validation is dimmed ?!!! - Bink.nu Forums
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Villa Bleumarine - St. Martin
Uhm, okay, maybe a ten year plan so we can enjoy a week away here (oh mama!):
Villa Bleumarine - St. Martin
Villa Bleumarine - St. Martin
Cayman Island > Villa Cayman XX - Unusual Villa Rentals
OK, this is a five (or so) year plan to join three fun, adventerous (not THAT adventerous) couples to share the cost, the week, and the memories of going to this place. Any takers? Sorry, it cannot be just anybody; safety first.
Cayman Island > Villa Cayman XX - Unusual Villa Rentals
Cayman Island > Villa Cayman XX - Unusual Villa Rentals
CANOE -- JAM! - Madonna explains Spears kiss tor daughter
More "Brokeback" fallout? Don't know and I don't really care what her daughter thinks. Really though, Lourdes, with a screwed up name, and a mother who cannot tongue a girl properly, I think you would have better things to do.
CANOE -- JAM! - Madonna explains Spears kiss tor daughter
CANOE -- JAM! - Madonna explains Spears kiss tor daughter
CANOE -- JAM! - 'Crash' backlash erupts after Oscar win
I bring you this simply as a matter of fact. I cannot comment yet because I have only seen one of the two movies in the conflict. When DW and I watch the Oscar Winner, Crash, we will let you know what we think.
That said, if anyone thinks that the fact it was a gay cowboy movie that was being voted on did NOT have a hand in it not winning, you simply are not paying attention to how things work in North America. As an example, without judgment, we have several Catholic friends who refuse to view the movie simply on the premise that our teachings suggest it is wrong to be homosexual (at least that is what I am told, the good book is so long it is a difficult read).
Anyhow, I am never one for convention so I will make up my own mind. Check later for the result.
Ciao.
CANOE -- JAM! - 'Crash' backlash erupts after Oscar win
That said, if anyone thinks that the fact it was a gay cowboy movie that was being voted on did NOT have a hand in it not winning, you simply are not paying attention to how things work in North America. As an example, without judgment, we have several Catholic friends who refuse to view the movie simply on the premise that our teachings suggest it is wrong to be homosexual (at least that is what I am told, the good book is so long it is a difficult read).
Anyhow, I am never one for convention so I will make up my own mind. Check later for the result.
Ciao.
CANOE -- JAM! - 'Crash' backlash erupts after Oscar win
CANOE -- JAM! - Trump jokes about dating daughter
I told DW that I bet the press picks up on the comments of Trump during the first episode of Apprentice because they just love jumping on things to make stories. Well, instead, they did it when he was on The View. You just cannot make jokes about anything anymore. Please Dave (Chappelle), get your ass back on TV.
CANOE -- JAM! - Trump jokes about dating daughter
CANOE -- JAM! - Trump jokes about dating daughter
CANOE -- JAM! - Teri Hatcher reveals sex abuse
You just never know who it has happened to and it has happened far too often. Sometimes it is something innocent that went too far, and is still wrong. Sometimes it is something twisted and sick and premeditated. Thankfully, Ms. Hatcher stepped forward and the pervert was sent to jail. Too late for the little girl but hopefully in time for soem jailhouse justice.
CANOE -- JAM! - Teri Hatcher reveals sex abuse
CANOE -- JAM! - Teri Hatcher reveals sex abuse
CANOE -- JAM! - Christopher Reeve's widow dies
While comic book fans wait in anticipation of the return (finally) of Superman, arguably the greatest comic book hero ever created, to the theatres, reality forces us to take some time to mourn a tragic passing.
Dana Reeve, the real life "Lois Lane" to her late husband Christopher Reeve's Superman, lost her battle with lung Cancer at the young age of 44. Never having smoked a cigarette in her life, she contracted a more rare form of lung cancer that is hard to detect and even harder to treat once symptoms start showing; eseentially a sign that it is too late. Still, with all of that, Mrs. Reeve never wavered in her husband's mission for more research into spinal injuries (Mr. Reeve was felled with such an injury after an innocent looking horse riding accident).
Mrs. Reeve leaves a 13-year old son that is now fully in the spotlight as he lays orphaned by two incredible parents. Already the "Extras" and "ETs" of the world are shifting their spotlight to him in the common goal of showing how he is doing and how he is coping with all of this. As a child of famous parents, he has had some exposure to the media crush and has done the interviews. But, let us all remember that he is a young teenage child who just lost the second parent before he had a chance to grow up or finish dealing with the death of the first one.
How is he doing? None of our business. Leave him alone and let him grieve.
Peace.
CANOE -- JAM! - Christopher Reeve's widow dies
Dana Reeve, the real life "Lois Lane" to her late husband Christopher Reeve's Superman, lost her battle with lung Cancer at the young age of 44. Never having smoked a cigarette in her life, she contracted a more rare form of lung cancer that is hard to detect and even harder to treat once symptoms start showing; eseentially a sign that it is too late. Still, with all of that, Mrs. Reeve never wavered in her husband's mission for more research into spinal injuries (Mr. Reeve was felled with such an injury after an innocent looking horse riding accident).
Mrs. Reeve leaves a 13-year old son that is now fully in the spotlight as he lays orphaned by two incredible parents. Already the "Extras" and "ETs" of the world are shifting their spotlight to him in the common goal of showing how he is doing and how he is coping with all of this. As a child of famous parents, he has had some exposure to the media crush and has done the interviews. But, let us all remember that he is a young teenage child who just lost the second parent before he had a chance to grow up or finish dealing with the death of the first one.
How is he doing? None of our business. Leave him alone and let him grieve.
Peace.
CANOE -- JAM! - Christopher Reeve's widow dies
TheStar.com - Students left in limbo
When have you ever known an employee to say, "Raise in my salary? No thanks." and really mean it? Well, we have that situation now with the union of teachers that have gone on strike and shut down the colleges. Having been both a teacher and a student, I understand the both sides and it really sucks for everyone involved. The teachers want to teach and the students (most of them) want to get their education.
The system has been broken for a very long time, and while I don't like disruptive strikes and I am not fond of unions (for many reasons), I do support the issues that the teachers are fighting for this time. I just wish it did not have to come at the expense of some students semesters.
The big problem I have with these situations is that everyone waits until its too late to come up with suitable compromises on both sides that they BOTH were willing to table in case this happens. Why bloody wait until the shit hits the fan to clean up the mess? Hopefully common sense will prevail and this will be a short strike.
Then again, this is Toronto. See you in a couple ofd months.
Ciao.
TheStar.com - Students left in limbo
The system has been broken for a very long time, and while I don't like disruptive strikes and I am not fond of unions (for many reasons), I do support the issues that the teachers are fighting for this time. I just wish it did not have to come at the expense of some students semesters.
The big problem I have with these situations is that everyone waits until its too late to come up with suitable compromises on both sides that they BOTH were willing to table in case this happens. Why bloody wait until the shit hits the fan to clean up the mess? Hopefully common sense will prevail and this will be a short strike.
Then again, this is Toronto. See you in a couple ofd months.
Ciao.
TheStar.com - Students left in limbo
Mourning for Puckett continues in Minnesota, around baseball - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
Another true sports "hero" cut down way too short. Goodbye, Kirby. Truly, rest in peace.
Mourning for Puckett continues in Minnesota, around baseball - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
Mourning for Puckett continues in Minnesota, around baseball - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
CNN.com - Teacher's Bush remarks investigated - Mar 3, 2006
So much for free speech. Still think it is the greatest country on the planet? When you cannot criticize the very establishment that purports to be fighting for your freedom to do just that, then something is seriously wrong with the system. You would not stay in a relationship that was so hypocrtival and flawed. You would not council anyone to stay in an abusive situation. So, why do our American family continue to do this?
CNN.com - Teacher's Bush remarks investigated - Mar 3, 2006
CNN.com - Teacher's Bush remarks investigated - Mar 3, 2006
BarDrinks Home Page!
Do I really need to explain this? I didn't think so!
BarDrinks Home Page! - http://www.bardrinks.com/
BarDrinks Home Page! - http://www.bardrinks.com/
Today's Funny
Submitted by a fellow Calabrese.
-------------------------------
If Women Controlled The World:
-------------------------------
If Women Controlled The World:
Another senseless death due to an idiot drunk driver. When will people learn?
Editor's Note: Especially scary is the increase in female drivers stupid enough to drive drunk. Also, you fellow SUV drivers need to release that a large, gas-guzzling vehicle does not make you invincible and immune to death.
Traffic Fatality #13/2006, Alcohol-related collision takes life of 17-year-old boy
Tuesday, March 7, 2006 - 9:26 AM
Traffic Services
416-808-1900
On Monday, March 6, 2006, at about 10:22 p.m. it is alleged that a Ford SUV, being driven by a 37-year-old woman, was travelling westbound on the Fred Gardiner Expressway, east of Parklawn Road, when she lost control of the vehicle.
It is further alleged that the SUV struck another westbound vehicle and then spun out of control and came to rest against the jersey wall. A third vehicle sustained minor damage in trying to avoid the SUV.
The only rear-seat passenger in the SUV, a 17-year-old boy from Mississauga, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver and front seat passenger received minor injuries.
The driver of one of the other vehicles also sustained a minor injury and did not require medical attention.
The driver of the Ford SUV was placed under arrest and charged with two criminal offences.
Dawn Marie Cox, 37, of Mississauga, is charged with:
1) Impaired Driving Causing Death
2) Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Causing Death
She is scheduled to appear in courtroom 501 at College Park Courts, 444 Yonge Street, Tuesday, March 7, 2006, at 10 a.m.
Traffic Fatality #13/2006, Alcohol-related collision takes life of 17-year-old boy
Tuesday, March 7, 2006 - 9:26 AM
Traffic Services
416-808-1900
On Monday, March 6, 2006, at about 10:22 p.m. it is alleged that a Ford SUV, being driven by a 37-year-old woman, was travelling westbound on the Fred Gardiner Expressway, east of Parklawn Road, when she lost control of the vehicle.
It is further alleged that the SUV struck another westbound vehicle and then spun out of control and came to rest against the jersey wall. A third vehicle sustained minor damage in trying to avoid the SUV.
The only rear-seat passenger in the SUV, a 17-year-old boy from Mississauga, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver and front seat passenger received minor injuries.
The driver of one of the other vehicles also sustained a minor injury and did not require medical attention.
The driver of the Ford SUV was placed under arrest and charged with two criminal offences.
Dawn Marie Cox, 37, of Mississauga, is charged with:
1) Impaired Driving Causing Death
2) Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Causing Death
She is scheduled to appear in courtroom 501 at College Park Courts, 444 Yonge Street, Tuesday, March 7, 2006, at 10 a.m.
Meetings, Bloody Meetings.
When I went to The Institute for Computer Studies (now a defunct arm of CDI Computer College ebcause they killed it with incompetence, but I digress) back in 1995 for my programming course, one of the things we did was watch a video that starred John Cleese. Essentially, "Meetings, Bloody Meetings!", was a hilariously instructional series on just how to and NOT to run meetings. The one I remember the most is the meeting that had everyone attend and no one knew who called the meeting or why it was called. The other one that stands out is the meeting to discuss what woudl be discussed in the next scheduled meeting. Basically, it showed why most meetings were unnecessary and simply called to help someone feel important. The follow Dilbert illustrates this brilliantly.
Mac OS X hacked? Perish the thought.
Mac OS X 30 minute hack "woefully misleading" by ZDNet's Jason D. O'Grady -- There have been a number of salacious reports around the Web to the effect of "Mac OS X hacked in 30 minutes" based on the results of a University of Wisconsin competition in which hackers were challenged to hack into a Mac mini connected to the Internet.
An Ottawa Senator fan's worst joke of the week
Submitted by Phil, an Ottawa Senators fan
----------------------------
There are two Quebecois hunters who have been lost in the woods for weeks and they're at death's door.
As they stumble on, hoping for some form of salvation or something similar, they suddenly spot, through the brush, a peculiar looking tree off in the distance.
As they get closer they can see that the tree is draped with rasher upon rasher of bacon. There's smoked bacon, crispy bacon, life giving juicy nearly- raw bacon, all sorts.
"Hey, Jacques" says the first hunter "Dat's a bacon tree!!! We're saved!!!"
"You're right, mon ami!" says Henri.
So Jacques goes on ahead and runs up to the tree salivating at the prospect of food. But as he gets to within five metres of the tree, there's the sound of machine gun fire, and he is shot down in a hail of bullets.
His friend quickly drops down on the forest floor and calls across to the wounded Jacques. "Jacques!! Jacques!! Qu'est-ce qui se passe?"
With his dying breath Jacques calls out... "Ugh, run, mon ami, run!!
Dat's not a Bacon Tree!"
"Dat's......"
"Dat's......"
"Dat's......... a.... Ham bush!!
----------------------------
There are two Quebecois hunters who have been lost in the woods for weeks and they're at death's door.
As they stumble on, hoping for some form of salvation or something similar, they suddenly spot, through the brush, a peculiar looking tree off in the distance.
As they get closer they can see that the tree is draped with rasher upon rasher of bacon. There's smoked bacon, crispy bacon, life giving juicy nearly- raw bacon, all sorts.
"Hey, Jacques" says the first hunter "Dat's a bacon tree!!! We're saved!!!"
"You're right, mon ami!" says Henri.
So Jacques goes on ahead and runs up to the tree salivating at the prospect of food. But as he gets to within five metres of the tree, there's the sound of machine gun fire, and he is shot down in a hail of bullets.
His friend quickly drops down on the forest floor and calls across to the wounded Jacques. "Jacques!! Jacques!! Qu'est-ce qui se passe?"
With his dying breath Jacques calls out... "Ugh, run, mon ami, run!!
Dat's not a Bacon Tree!"
"Dat's......"
"Dat's......"
"Dat's......... a.... Ham bush!!
Monday, March 06, 2006
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Psychiatrist duped in Internet scam
Just shows even the smart are stupid.
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Psychiatrist duped in Internet scam
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Psychiatrist duped in Internet scam
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Boy sticks gum on museum painting
And as long as they continue allowing the bullshit excuses, it will keep on happening.
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Boy sticks gum on museum painting
CANOE -- CNEWS - Weird News: Boy sticks gum on museum painting
Invasion from the pond
Well, it has been a nice weekend. My Goddaughter's siblings and mother, plus BT and her son, all came down on Friday night to spend the weekend with us. They arrived at ten, thanks to BT's driving, and we sat up much longer than that before we sent the kiddies off to bed. Then the adults did some catching up, finished of a 12 plus two, before retiring ourselves around 3 or 4.
On Saturday, we lazily got up and eventually got ourselves together to head out to Wasabi, a local all you can eat sushi joint. While I will never say that it is the best sushi in town (that honor goes to Hama Sushi in Markham and The Mikado in Leaside), it is a great value. The cost ($12 adult, $8 under nine, $2 under four, plus $2 weekend and holiday premium, lunch prices) includes lots of all you can eat menu items, unlimited soft drinks, and desert (fried banana, red bean or green tea ice cream or rice pudding). I will never say they have the best service, but if you go in knowing this, yu will leave quite full for little cost. The visitors were not as up on the raw fish as DW and I, so we were stuffed ensuring there were not too many table scraps (they charge if you order and waste too much food). All in all, still quite enjoyable.
From there we headed north to visit Double D's family in Newmarket. A L eventually popped up as well to join us. Their poor oldest was really under the weather so could not enjoy our visit but the twins had a blast. A view well mixed drinks later and so was I. Tempered all that "fun" with some Taco Bell and KFC and then it was back to Scarborough for us. A nice, and successful, visit all around. Once home, folks were pretty tired so most retired fairly early for some rest.
On Sunday, we were supposed to go to Golden Griddle but we were all too stuffed and tired from the day before to really do anything. The visitors went out after lunch for a lunchtime meeting with my Goddaughter's Godmother. DW and I stayed back and tried, unsuccessfully, to get some much needed stuff done. When they returned, I had hooked up the second Dreamcast we had kicking about (we gave it to the kids to take home) for them to play. We then decided to watch a movie first, at which point we kicked the kiddies downstairs so that we could watch it on the big screen. We then had a taco feast, thanks to DW, where it was nice to have nine people around the table for some good food and fun times. A L had joined us but left before we started the second movie. When it was done, the crew went to bed and I tried, and failed miserably, to get some work finished.
This morning, I woke up feeling like total crap. I really hate coughing and this one is starting to go deep in the chest. I need to get rid of it before the weekend as we will be snowboarding, skiiing and skidooing somewhere in Quebec for the first weekend of the March break, courtesy of BT's family. If not, I will sure as hell try to kill it there with tons of alcohol (for medicinal purposes only, naturally).
Peace.
On Saturday, we lazily got up and eventually got ourselves together to head out to Wasabi, a local all you can eat sushi joint. While I will never say that it is the best sushi in town (that honor goes to Hama Sushi in Markham and The Mikado in Leaside), it is a great value. The cost ($12 adult, $8 under nine, $2 under four, plus $2 weekend and holiday premium, lunch prices) includes lots of all you can eat menu items, unlimited soft drinks, and desert (fried banana, red bean or green tea ice cream or rice pudding). I will never say they have the best service, but if you go in knowing this, yu will leave quite full for little cost. The visitors were not as up on the raw fish as DW and I, so we were stuffed ensuring there were not too many table scraps (they charge if you order and waste too much food). All in all, still quite enjoyable.
From there we headed north to visit Double D's family in Newmarket. A L eventually popped up as well to join us. Their poor oldest was really under the weather so could not enjoy our visit but the twins had a blast. A view well mixed drinks later and so was I. Tempered all that "fun" with some Taco Bell and KFC and then it was back to Scarborough for us. A nice, and successful, visit all around. Once home, folks were pretty tired so most retired fairly early for some rest.
On Sunday, we were supposed to go to Golden Griddle but we were all too stuffed and tired from the day before to really do anything. The visitors went out after lunch for a lunchtime meeting with my Goddaughter's Godmother. DW and I stayed back and tried, unsuccessfully, to get some much needed stuff done. When they returned, I had hooked up the second Dreamcast we had kicking about (we gave it to the kids to take home) for them to play. We then decided to watch a movie first, at which point we kicked the kiddies downstairs so that we could watch it on the big screen. We then had a taco feast, thanks to DW, where it was nice to have nine people around the table for some good food and fun times. A L had joined us but left before we started the second movie. When it was done, the crew went to bed and I tried, and failed miserably, to get some work finished.
This morning, I woke up feeling like total crap. I really hate coughing and this one is starting to go deep in the chest. I need to get rid of it before the weekend as we will be snowboarding, skiiing and skidooing somewhere in Quebec for the first weekend of the March break, courtesy of BT's family. If not, I will sure as hell try to kill it there with tons of alcohol (for medicinal purposes only, naturally).
Peace.
SPAM, getting more inventive
I'm cleaning out the mailbox at work and come across the normal selection of SPAM in the junk mail folder. As long as the title is wonky, out it goes, but because I get lots of people reply to other emails that I do not know, I have to check to ensure real mail does not get trashed. This morning I spy one that has a subject of "ticket escalation", which I open since I deal with trouble tickets in my job. Well, much to my surprise, the only thing they wanted to elevate was my penis. Thanks, but that position is already taken. Next mail.
Ciao.
Ciao.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
A BINGO game submitted by rutty Ottawanian, Philibuster
HOW TO STAY AWAKE IN MEETINGS: OFFERED AS A PUBLIC SERVICE...
Do you keep falling asleep in meetings and seminars? What about those long and boring conference calls? Here's a way to change all of that.
1. Before (or during) your next meeting, seminar, or conference call, prepare yourself by drawing a square. I find that 5" x 5" is a good size. Divide the card into columns-five across and five down. That will give you 25 one-inch blocks.
2. Write one of the following words/phrases in each block:
* synergy
* strategic fit
* core competencies
* best practice
* bottom line
* revisit
* expeditious
* to tell you the truth (or "the truth is")
* 24/7
* out of the loop
* benchmark
* value-added
* proactive
* win-win
* think outside the box
* fast track
* result-driven
* empower (or empowerment)
* knowledge base
* at the end of the day
* touch base
* mindset
* client focus(ed)
* paradigm
* game plan
* leverage
3. Check off the appropriate block when you hear one of those words/phrases.
4. When you get five blocks horizontally, vertically, or diagonally stand up and shout "BULLSHIT!"
TESTIMONIALS from satisfied "Bullshit Bingo" players:
-- "I had been in the meeting for only five minutes when I won.." - Adam W., Atlanta
-- "My attention span at meetings has improved dramatically." - David T., Orlando
-- "What a gas! Meetings will never be the same for me after my first win." - Dan J., New York City
-- "The atmosphere was tense in the last process meeting as 14 of us waited for the fifth box." - Ben G., Denver
-- "The speaker was stunned as eight of us screamed 'BULLSHIT!' for the third time in two hours. The Bullshit Bingo Championship will be played at the next meeting." - Rod H.,
Do you keep falling asleep in meetings and seminars? What about those long and boring conference calls? Here's a way to change all of that.
1. Before (or during) your next meeting, seminar, or conference call, prepare yourself by drawing a square. I find that 5" x 5" is a good size. Divide the card into columns-five across and five down. That will give you 25 one-inch blocks.
2. Write one of the following words/phrases in each block:
* synergy
* strategic fit
* core competencies
* best practice
* bottom line
* revisit
* expeditious
* to tell you the truth (or "the truth is")
* 24/7
* out of the loop
* benchmark
* value-added
* proactive
* win-win
* think outside the box
* fast track
* result-driven
* empower (or empowerment)
* knowledge base
* at the end of the day
* touch base
* mindset
* client focus(ed)
* paradigm
* game plan
* leverage
3. Check off the appropriate block when you hear one of those words/phrases.
4. When you get five blocks horizontally, vertically, or diagonally stand up and shout "BULLSHIT!"
TESTIMONIALS from satisfied "Bullshit Bingo" players:
-- "I had been in the meeting for only five minutes when I won.." - Adam W., Atlanta
-- "My attention span at meetings has improved dramatically." - David T., Orlando
-- "What a gas! Meetings will never be the same for me after my first win." - Dan J., New York City
-- "The atmosphere was tense in the last process meeting as 14 of us waited for the fifth box." - Ben G., Denver
-- "The speaker was stunned as eight of us screamed 'BULLSHIT!' for the third time in two hours. The Bullshit Bingo Championship will be played at the next meeting." - Rod H.,
A wood joke submitted by MR
Subject: woodpecker humour
(from John Derringer)
Canadian woodpecker flies to Hawaii and is pecking at a tree. Hawaiian woodpecker comes over and says, “You can’t peck a hole in that tree, it is the hardest tree we have and it is woodpecker proof.” Canadian woodpecker pecks a hole, no problems. So the two become friends, and the Canadian woodpecker invites the Hawaiian woodpecker back up to Canada for the summer.
In Canada, the Hawaiian woodpecker starts pecking at a tree. Canadian woodpecker comes over and says, “You can’t peck a hole in that tree, it is the hardest tree we have and it is woodpecker proof.” Hawaiian woodpecker pecks a hole, no problems.
So the two sit down and have a long discussion, and finally come to the realization that your pecker is always harder away from home.
(from John Derringer)
Canadian woodpecker flies to Hawaii and is pecking at a tree. Hawaiian woodpecker comes over and says, “You can’t peck a hole in that tree, it is the hardest tree we have and it is woodpecker proof.” Canadian woodpecker pecks a hole, no problems. So the two become friends, and the Canadian woodpecker invites the Hawaiian woodpecker back up to Canada for the summer.
In Canada, the Hawaiian woodpecker starts pecking at a tree. Canadian woodpecker comes over and says, “You can’t peck a hole in that tree, it is the hardest tree we have and it is woodpecker proof.” Hawaiian woodpecker pecks a hole, no problems.
So the two sit down and have a long discussion, and finally come to the realization that your pecker is always harder away from home.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Why Windows Vista will suck
Hey, don't blame me. I did not write the article. And from the article, I can see why I will eb taking my time with the next windows upgrade the same way I did with the last one.
I think I prefer the Apple of way of doing things. They allowed a certain percentage of pissed off people when they swapped from OS 9 to OS X; two very different foundations. They allowed for some backward compatibility while being upfront that it won't last forever. They then kept improving the OS so that thos who made the upgrade would continue to want the next one (currently at 10.4.x Tiger) and included enough items (i.e. iLife suite) to ensure the holdouts would be envious enough to finally let go of the past, and their pursestrings, and join the rest of the Apple clan.
Windows, Intel and AMD all still cling to the past far too much and for far too long. We would have much more innovation if they would simply have the stones to force the industry to move forward. ISA should have died a fast painful death ages ago. Memory should have been faster ages ago. All itmes that slow the system down in any way should have been banished long ago.
So, why are we still dealing with the holes of yesterday in what is supposed to be the OS of the nea future? Because of laziness, because of the rush to deliver a promise that should never have been made (remember Windows ME?). What ever it is, it ends up costing the consumer time and money. And quite frankly, I am a bit tired of being treated like a beta tester without any of the fringe benefits.
Vista. The few is already good from where I sit. Wake me when you're really done.
Ciao.
Why Windows Vista will suck
I think I prefer the Apple of way of doing things. They allowed a certain percentage of pissed off people when they swapped from OS 9 to OS X; two very different foundations. They allowed for some backward compatibility while being upfront that it won't last forever. They then kept improving the OS so that thos who made the upgrade would continue to want the next one (currently at 10.4.x Tiger) and included enough items (i.e. iLife suite) to ensure the holdouts would be envious enough to finally let go of the past, and their pursestrings, and join the rest of the Apple clan.
Windows, Intel and AMD all still cling to the past far too much and for far too long. We would have much more innovation if they would simply have the stones to force the industry to move forward. ISA should have died a fast painful death ages ago. Memory should have been faster ages ago. All itmes that slow the system down in any way should have been banished long ago.
So, why are we still dealing with the holes of yesterday in what is supposed to be the OS of the nea future? Because of laziness, because of the rush to deliver a promise that should never have been made (remember Windows ME?). What ever it is, it ends up costing the consumer time and money. And quite frankly, I am a bit tired of being treated like a beta tester without any of the fringe benefits.
Vista. The few is already good from where I sit. Wake me when you're really done.
Ciao.
Why Windows Vista will suck
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Nikon Forum: No Words - Empty Space
Submitted by DW
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Note who makes it into this photo list.
Nikon Forum: No Words - Empty Space
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Note who makes it into this photo list.
Nikon Forum: No Words - Empty Space
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