Thursday, July 31, 2003
post://105968406324043927/I added a few things just for fun, playing with the idea - see if you can find the secret... and the horribly outdated, unmaintained webpages! Yay!
Geeks finally publish a study to justify their existance.
I found a photoblog with some really nice pictures from Japan. I only wish they were background sized.
To answer the question you've been asking yourself since the beginning:
"What is Phenylalanine?"
Taj Mahal is playing at the Iron Horse in NoHo Aug 4th and 5th.
posted @ 16:41
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post://105967056718426794/
blogger 2
poor little rich man
There is nothing more angering then someone violating your trust. I know who took my xbox game at the party back in March as now more are missing. I just don't know what route to take.
My instinct says beat him up... find him and get my money back (as he's already sold them).
That would then create turmoil. He's got nothing to lose, and he'd certainly retaliate.
I'm worried about him breaking into the house, my car, or doing some sort of damage. I wouldn't put any of it past the little weasel.
I could call the police, he was in the house without permission -- I've had experiences with police in the past, they're never any help.
I think I'll put in a police report though, at least have it on record in case anything else should happen in the future. At $50 a pop for 5 games from me, that's $250 + $200 in PS2 games that were taken from Phil. I think that'll up it to trespassing and grand larceny... not sure exactly, but we'll try doing this the civilized way. That is, unless I see him first >=]
Another proven assumption, only after the fact, after the damage has been done. I didn't trust the guy, never liked the guy... should have gone with my instincts previously.
Why is it never possible to circumvent these things... grrrrrrrrr... so mad.
posted @ 15:59
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Tuesday, July 29, 2003
post://105948836405977967/Heads up on some low-priced top-notch footwear:
Doc Martin's are $35! Check out this and other Daily Deals!
Also, I just posted some of my favorite XBox games.
(sponsors page)
posted @ 18:08
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post://105951380779052725/
If you have yet to catch it, make sure you see Bonzai! on Fox, it's... interesting.
Step 1: add living rat brain cells to a microchip
Step 2: grow more cells
Step 3: hook up to a robotic drawing arm
Step 4: teach said rat brain cell cyborg hybrid thing to draw
Step 5: stop skynet.
NVidia's new pixel pushing pixie.
Linkin Park was ok, but Limp Bizkit got booed? Where's your priorities, Chicago? (and good going Durst on chastizing a song that got you where you were)
If you haven't read Britney Spears guide to Semiconductor Physics... you're missing out. It's also been re-done, doesn't have that Netscape 3.0 feel to it anymore.
This is an interesting item, beware the flashing stuff and dayglow color scheme.
posted @ 17:23
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Monday, July 28, 2003
post://105937261965018993/Last entry got me thinking about the pictures page. It hasn't moved since the digi-cam broke, attempted to look at a cell phone w/ photo today -- 2 more months to get a discount.
*humph* just as well, don't really need it.
I'll borrow mum's. =]
posted @ 02:09
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post://105937146108851754/
If anyone has a WAP/Web enabled cellphone, give the mobile page a shot -- not sure how WAP friendly it is, last I knew the only 'requirement' was XML... so maybe I need a direct link to the XML. I don't know right now... eyes drooping, itch infallible.
posted @ 01:44
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post://105936891920652811/
its getting to my brain, drip drip drip, boing.
drip. boing. auorlglglglglgl....
.:sigh:.
Can't sleep -- maybe I should have sprung for the $7.50 bottle of calahist lotion, name brand vs current $4.29 Walgreens which does not seem to help. I'm awash in itch.
posted @ 00:06
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Saturday, July 26, 2003
post://105925207539192435/I was just reading a story about a giant catfish in Germany. They say at the bottom that Bremen will stuff the dead fish and put it in a museum. I made a little joke about "The Bremen Musicians" - the fairy tale... where they'll probably put it atop a donkey along with a cat... blah blah blah.
No one had heard of it that I asked, so I looked it up. Not only did they have info 'about' the story: The Bremen Town Musicians, they had an animated story book in Flash!
That then led me to classicfairytales.com which has all sorts of stories, along with fun games, ECards, and an interactive Fairy!
This guy's got big plans for his new ear.
I believe I've made my opinion of SPAM clear in the past... (as if it differs from anyone else) so here's a handy Field Guide to SPAM to help fight the good fight.
A new spin - MoBlogs with a good example of what can be done.
...and you'll never forgive me: Hip Hop blog entry ::
Missy Eliot - Gossip Folks
I am a blogging mach-INE!
AOL lies... imagine that. Was this before the whole merger thing? They might not have looked as attractive without these 830,000 subscribers. Did those accounts possibly put them over the 20 million subscriber barrier at the time? Wow - here's another from The Washington Post that's along the same lines.
It's not often that I find a blog that I enjoy - jesusshaves.com is one such blog. Check out the "Bake Sale" link, mainly the conversations.
posted @ 17:10
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post://105924132152359882/
I'm not sure where the "...of death" moniker originated, but I tend to use it a lot as well.
It sure sounds like these guys thought they had it all down pat. Turns out that wasn't quite the case.
If you are looking for some fun, and have a research grant to spend, try this:
Visit an American university, bump into random students in the corridor and loudly call each one ‘asshole’. Then measure their reactions. This is what a team of psychologists did in a controlled experiment at the University of Michigan.
It's time to re-calibrate.
Too much partying, not enough sleep... maybe not quite a bender but it still leads to a detached reality. A week or so after you realize it everything starts to come back into focus -- and you also realize that there's a ways more to go.
I got a call back from GAP, I hope to work there part time, fold clothes, help customers... and enjoy my very low responsibility job. I have my interview tomorrow morning. I chose 10:30 on a Sunday to show dependability -- I can only hope it doesn't backfire, but with partying on the DL - it shouldn't be an issue. I remember the days of working at Walmart in the Electronics Dept, living at home -- it was a breeze (except the 'living at home' part), and I didn't have so much stress.
posted @ 14:10
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Friday, July 25, 2003
post://105915407484002941/My buddy Jay just uploaded the pictures to my iDisk from the Mazda RevItUp driving thingy. They're large, but there's a preview that might be helpful in finding the cooler ones ;)
(camera was new Sony 4-5mp w/ 10X zoom, memory stick v2.0)
Going to Boston any time soon? There are still a few places to smoke.
I haven't tried this yet, but here's a 20 questions game/script.
Check out babyink.com!
posted @ 13:27
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Thursday, July 24, 2003
post://105907074395961144/Sadaam's Sons photos released of bodies
Well, they say they've got proof - hardly recognizable, and the xray doesn't look like anything... and what's this about 90% matchup on the dental records for one of them... is it 70% on the other guy and thats where they get the 80%???
Still -- it'll probably help, maybe quiet things down a little - give the soldiers a break. Worse case scenario would be that it's not them, and this would probably make them come out of hiding to prove otherwise if it isn't.
"Mountain Dew saved my god-damned life!" - A story of struggle and recovery. It's rather difficult to read in places.
Here's the article with pictures.
You've been good: kitty pictures.
You've been very very bad: just click it.
You've been right out nasty: just click it.
...and when in doubt: you're probably lost.
I recently wrote to Whitney Matheson of USA today with a few recommendations for hipclicks, her weekly column with various fun links.
I'm not sure if mine will be picked, but keep your eyes peeled!
Ahh... it's the little things in life -- Synthetic-X is mentioned in Blog Beat: a weblog for MassLive.com by Scott Brodeur.
(entry for July 22nd)
posted @ 14:19
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Wednesday, July 23, 2003
post://105898930485839904/Got a favorite Indy Band? Give them this link to possibly get their music published via iTunes!
posted @ 15:41
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post://105898841970399468/
Birthday Time!
The Blue Man Group Adventure!
To come:
A Humid Day Off
and some other perfectly good wastes of time.
I'm normally a couple months behind on the latest hiphop - one for the record since the hiphop blog isn't really in existence yet:
Wayne Wonder - No Letting Go
I finally saw The Hulk - alas, did not give my $8.75 - but have a much better opinion of it now. I can at least appreciate it for the story line (which was what the comic was all about), and the direction/camera work.
Here's 101 Cool Earth Facts that I found rather interesting. Reading through it I noticed the "worlds largest waterfall" which led me to search for more info about: Angels Falls of Venezuela (w/ pics)
and in searching for that I also found this Waterfalls of the Pacific NW site.
Oh! And check out this link to read about the guy who held his head on and drove himself to the hospital after being nearly decapitated.
posted @ 15:26
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Tuesday, July 22, 2003
post://105900680026473641/Wow. Everything I could have hoped for, was exceeded by 10 times with other cool stuff thrown in as a bonus. To say I was impressed would be to say that the pope goes to church.
It wasn't all sprinkles and pop tarts, but it all worked out in the end.
We wanted to be on our way by 3 or so, got off to a late start but left about 3:30 with the show at 6. We piled in the limo, a bit of a tight squeeze, but after some adjustments to the seating placement -- I was comphy. We partied up on the way, we'd brought beer and whatnot... a little something to pass the time with. It didn't take all that long, time passed pretty quickly -- I'm assuming he was going about 80 or so... but mainly it was just that no one had to drive that it flew by.
We stopped for a pitstop about halfway there, were doin OK with time, got a little something to eat... and we were off again.
About 30 min from Boston we heard a funny whine... then a *flopa*flopa*flopp*flopp*flopppppp* -- flat tire, no spare.
They'd have to send a car from Springfield - at least 45 min to an hour. AAA doesn't cover livery vehicles in case you were wondering.
As we were looking at the time, we had an hour and a half to get a tire 45 min, fix the flat, and drive another 30 min to the Charles Playhouse in Boston.
We weren't going to make it.
I figured it was their fault... they didn't equip their vehicle properly... so they ought to take responsibility. If they sent us 2 cabs for all the people, we could probably get there in time. At first it wasn't received well -- no one wanted to pay for the cab. I insisted that it would be covered by the limo company as they'd have special cases where someone would miss their flight or whatnot. Finally they asked the driver and he called to get some cabs out to pick us up off the highway. They came, got directions and brought us into Boston. We got there about 5 minutes before the show was starting (oh yeaaaaaah). It's a good thing we didn't get there late too... because they have a little something special planned for 'those people'.
The show was amazing. The first little bit was the audience entertaining themselves. They had a scrolling sign that did a little intro... congratulated people in the audience who weren't really in the audience citing exciting accomplishments. They caught on quickly and a few stood up when prompted to receive applause. They had a trick in store though, after the 3rd person -- it essentially told them to sit down right after saying their name =] That person got a little embarrassed.
We had great seats, front center - directly behind the poncho section (it can get a little messy up front). We got a few beers, pulled a trick on the waitress after someone didn't have their ID... (We asked for a certain number of Buds, Bud lights... changed the number once or twice, confirmed, but when she returned they pretended she got the number wrong - asked for another Bud light - paid for the others and the additional ahead. She came back with the other beer, a request for an additional beer went unheard, but Doug at least now had his beer.) and we were ready for the show.
It was performance art, it was musical, it was philosophical, the lighting was magnificent, the sound perfect, the entertainers excellent as much of it appeared impropetu. They'd feed off of the audience, work with it, had volunteers, walked across the seats using the audience as a steady base to keep themselves up (one of them walked right past me, using Laura as a base).
There was a lot of well written techno that they'd perform on drums, slide tubes (PVC), and even a PVC organ of sorts, with a little station of each of the 3 of the Blue Men.
The 'special plan' for the late people was that the show stopped abruptly - alarms went off, the lights flashed, and the late-comers appeared on the screen up front. A large lit sign up front flashed "Late Arrivals!" and the camera zoomed to the couple and fixed upon them until they sat. Even then it remained for a bit... and then the show resumed exactly where they had left off - without a hitch.
After some intriguing dialogue about digital duplication and copyright such as artists allowing their work to be modified without additional compensation and giving up the rights for the new work to be claimed by the new artist or more preferably -- given away free to be enjoyed by all -- it was the climax of the show:: The Rave.
The black lights came on, there were rolls of toilet paper all around the theater, up above on the balconies, and more on the lower level around the outside. They ran up to the top level and began rolling the paper and throwing it down on the audience. They were instructed to then pass it forward, when it got to me I realized it was slightly oversized for toilet paper - it was in fact crepe paper, much wider and heftier then toilet paper... like streamers.
Giant Tubes on the ceiling spun, catching some of the paper... it was a melee, the strobe lights were going, everyone was fervorously passing it to the front, piles and piles of the paper built up and rolled forward. At one point I was completely covered and could feel the weight of about a 5 foot ball of paper on my head, I couldn't see anyone around me and the music was just blaring with the lights flashing through the paper... it was amazing -- they successfully made everyone alone, in a crowd. This was a theme they touched on earlier - how everyone lived so close to other humans... but yet most of us were still alone.
I was just in awe with my face stuck in a permanent grin. I bought the DVD Audio disc on my way out, had been hoping to get the album(s) on vinyl for a few friends of mine, but alas they don't offer it.
We met back up after the trek outside and went to dinner at "California Pizza House" which ended up being a high priced tourist trap where they couldn't even make salad correctly and where it seemed that none of the waitresses or help spoke english as a native language - they didn't often understand what we were asking, or what we wanted.
After too long, and disappointing food, we got out of there with some free dessert for the trouble. We called the limo driver to pick us up, and we were off for home.
It seemed longer on the way back, the driver told us they had come out with the other limo - that spare had been flat... but they had a donut in addition. They put a good tire from the other limo on ours and the donut on the limo that was heading back to Springfield. I was amazed that a limo company could be so unprepared. If it's one thing you bring - it's a spare, it ought to be part of the equipment check before you head out to a customer.
I was groggy on the way back - snuggled against the corner, just reveling in the experience I had had. It was wonderful. It was an awesome experience that I'd recommend to all!
posted @ 13:03
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Sunday, July 20, 2003
post://105900258706936388/I just got back from my friend Justin's birthday party. I got there a little late due to my work schedule, but got there in enough time to get some burgers and beer. His girlfriend Tracy had set it up as a surprise, it was at her house in New Braintree -- so I went even further into the woods then per usual.
She had a keg, and further back in the woods was the campsite where we set up the tent and had a fire.
One of his friends drove her new (2000) Eclipse down into the woods which we used for light and music. We had a picnic table for beer pong, and played that for quite some time, and otherwise just sat around the fire and caught up with one-another.
Eric was in the marines and just got back from Iraq, he was in the dust storm as they marched in there. He seemed more quiet then usual, apparently his girl had been up to some hijinks while he was away. I knew her from high school - so I'm not really surprised, but she just went from bad to worse after highschool. He had a shirt with a sand covered soldier's face, and the words: "Got Sand?" I wanted to ask him all sorts of questions, ask him if he talked to any people there, find out exactly what he did.
That may be something for a future article - an interview with Eric the Marine.
Others passed out sooner then I - they had quite a bit more to drink then myself... Courvoisier had been passed around (and depleted) prior to my arrival. However I was still hampered to the point where I had to stay... so I curled up in the tent with a blanket on the tent floor and had a very uncomfortable nights sleep. I woke early expecting to go out for breakfast, but no one else was up... I grabbed some coffee and was on my way.
I had to make sure I got home in time so as not to miss the show this evening. I'm off to Blue Man Group - but with an early morning cancellation - I am out someone to go with. I've called a few people, but so far they're either working, or not answering -- so we'll see what happens.
We're catching a limo from here out to Boston, it's at the Charles Theater. I can't imagine there'd be anyone who wouldn't want to go =]
posted @ 14:03
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Saturday, July 19, 2003
post://105865414770821028/You know "the guy from Blue's Clues"? - see what he's up to now.
posted @ 18:35
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Friday, July 18, 2003
post://105854865179935789/Those damn Frenchies are at it again...
...although courriel is kinda catchy.
~~ \\ ~~
I'm on hold:
You can't hurry love
No, you'll just have to wait
She said love don't come easy
But it's a game of give and take
~~ // ~~
Add a new breed of man to your vocab:
Metrosexuals
...poor Ben, always gets his picture at the top of these things.
Check out these cool lightning pics!
Got iPod? Get iSkin!
Random snippet from NYPost Online:
Mariann Simms of Wetumpka, Ala., won $250 in a writing contest — for the worst opening line of a novel.
Simms' topper for the San Jose State University contest began: "They had but one last remaining night together, so they embraced each other as tightly as that two-flavor entwined string cheese that is orange and yellowish-white, the orange probably being a bland cheddar and the white mozzarella, although it could possibly be provolone or just plain American."
These are kinda cool, very futuristic.
Bad Boys II -- It gets more badder!
Unless this is a hoax could very well explain the Loch Ness Monster. Apparently there was a plesiosaur amongst us.
posted @ 13:17
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Thursday, July 17, 2003
post://105847020130086237/Today's Link of the day: www.k12.nf.ca/stgeorgeshigh/Dildo/DildoDays.htm
The link itself is half the fun!
I helped my mom set up her new camera the other night:
Olympus C-4000Z
It takes such amazing pictures! She had 3x5" prints done @ CVS straight off her memory card from the camera and the pictures came out better then I've ever seen film look!
posted @ 15:30
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post://105847505363155459/
We're taking a limo... but I can't post this yet.
I've asked Danielle to go with me, she was rather excited.
However -- the usual difficulties apply.
I don't know why my relationships always involve intrigue. It's never been quite this sneaky before, but it's such a care-free time when we're together. Danielle seems at peace, and I know I am.
We both run all over the place, a good example is at home: cleaning and picking up. I've witnessed her as though I'm gazing into a mirror -- darting here and there, jumping from item to item, and doing it just to get it done.
We've exchanged a few notes thus far, seems the only time when we can have words between us. When we actually do get to spend time, it's hurried and/or just nice to snuggle together. I don't always have everything on my mind when I'm with her either -- and certainly don't tend to have the clearest of consciousness, so a delayed response via text seems suiting.
She has many worries as to where life is going, and I did too -- I don't want to seem like I'm the older one who's figured things out, but I think I can help her out with a few techniques. She's spoken of "changing boys" to how she likes them, like modifying the behavior and/or bad habits. That doesn't worry me, however. I can't be changed as a person, and I know I have bad habits that no one else notices, even myself - sometimes, so having someone conscious of such things wouldn't be a bad thing. However -- I think that was mainly with the individuals whom she had been around previously. She's done a lot to bring herself above that - she's a better person and deserves better.
I wish I could tell our friend somehow. She is afraid of the two friends pairing off and leaving her alone... being out of the loop, and that makes sense - but I think the main reason we're being so careful is that neither of us is sure at this point. We know we like being around each other - that it's a happy time when we're able to hang out, and that it's not quite the same when we're around other people because it can't be -- we can't let on. We don't want to cause a big commotion and have it fall back down on us if things don't work out.
I like it, it's thrilling sometimes, leaving a shirt behind... or something out of place, or having to delete the caller id. If this ends up being as good of a thing as it seems at this point, it won't be an issue to tell her later on. We'll be happy, and be able to tell her...
I hope that day comes, it's tough, and makes me feel bad. At the same time, however - to let her know without knowing ourselves is unneeded hardship. Until we know this really is something that's "worth the trouble". Otherwise we'll just go our separate ways and no one will be the wiser... yeah... that's it.
posted @ 10:48
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Wednesday, July 16, 2003
post://105840209163907980/I did a few updates to the music page, it's no longer the "Temporary Music Page" and now matches the theme. I had an odd thing between IE & Mozilla - they seem to handle the pixels in CSS differently. I just have to check Safari when I get home, but otherwise I've compromised the positioning to look good on both.
I think the archives page is the next on the list. Don't look at it now, I'm embarrassed ;)
posted @ 20:34
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post://105839357864256642/
Electric razor is worse... ingrown hairs is my main issue with them. The other choice is the standard Mach III - which was literally issued to every man in America at the age of 18 (I received a package in the mail for my 18th birthday with a free Mach III, 3 blades, and Gillette aftershave). I was a loyal customer from then on, though I only used it once in a while to take on the fuzz... it hasn't been an every day battle up until recently.
I'm sure for every guy complaining about razor burn out there - there's plenty of ladies cursing their own regiment. I just needed to say this though: appreciate the clean-shaven, though some might not have such an issue with it... it's for the ladies -- otherwise everyone would be running around looking like pro-hockey players. ;)
One man's proposal for circumventing the Shaving Industry Conspiracy
posted @ 18:12
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post://105838104402926417/
posted @ 14:44
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Tuesday, July 15, 2003
post://105829958525669867/Katita Wind-up Toys
Terror Has Another Name
My scheme has failed. I was hoping to "get back" at the theweblogreview.com for their horrible review of my site a while back. Granted, it was "hidden" but I expected them to be at least somewhat tech savvy and have a fast internet connection. They didn't find the bubbles, got in the back door (the old windows that pop up) and it just was all bad. They chided my web-authoring skills, design, and content "I think when people talk about moving, it's boring" yeah... when you only read the first entry!!! (but I'm not bitter)
My plan was to reserve the domain for when it fell out of the 45-day reservation period. Their provider had cancelled his domain, he said he paid but didn't have proof, they said he didn't. If he wanted it during that 45 day waiting period -- he'd have to pay an extra $100, which is what I think he did. I had a reserve on it, but just was refunded back my money. .:sigh:. I would have loved to put a pointer page to my site to start... then I'd have started my own web log review... as I think some shouldn't even be considered unless they're somewhat reasonable quality, well authored, etc... which miffed me more about the whole thing.
My site's totally different now, so it could do for another review, but they're not doing submissions right now. I just want the rating I deserve, dammit. I don't want a 1 from some putz who didn't even know how to navigate the damn thing.
Oh well... maybe some day another evil plan will be able to be realized and I'll feel like I've had my day. >=]
posted @ 16:06
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post://105829899998624050/
Classes will have already started as of September 5th, I am working up until that point. I can't claim benefits before that point. I can't be enrolled before I'm "approved" for re-training and accompanying extension on my unemployment benefits or I risk losing all benefits (this happened to me before, so I know they'll do it).
I can't go to school this semester, but I can apply at any time after receiving benefits to go back to school. This will extend my benefits by an additional 18 weeks at that point, past the usual 6 month allowance. Hopefully with this extension I will be able to complete the required classes and obtain my Associates in Computer programming. If all else fails (they don't offer the right classes in that semester) I can do the "adult retraining" which is basic retraining in math, English, and various other academic classes. I'd be fine with that, not exactly happy as I'd still have to go back the next semester to get classes not offered in Spring.
This gives me the time in-between to find a basic job (clothing, video games, and music stores at the mall so far) that doesn't pay much, and has flexible hours.
I can earn up to 1/3rd of my unemployment benefits without it changing my check. If I earn more, they start adjusting it. I'm planning on 15 to 20 hours depending on how much it pays. Worse case scenario I can always apply back at Walmart, though I'd rather not.
So I have about a month and a half to find a very low responsibility job to make a little extra money for fun, and emergencies while using my unemployment to barely pay all my bills.
I had hoped to go back to school sooner, but the timing of this is impeccable, and though I may lose out on some positions in the area because I'm not looking for full time right now... it's better because I will have the chance to do what I've been going to school for: programming.
So that's the plan. In the meanwhile I'll enjoy my semester off, try not to spend too much money, and make the best of what fate has handed me. =]
posted @ 15:56
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post://105828341530448452/
I have my plan. I haven't gone into it yet, but I'll divulge it shortly. It's not overly impressive, but it's a milestone. Here at this point in my life I need to re-establish my short term goals. My long term goals have remained about where they were, and though I've gotten marginally closer to them -- must say that I haven't done as well as I'd hoped thus far (done it as quickly as I'd planned, in other words).
I have so much that is floating around in my head... so much that I have to find a place for, a reason for, and try and bring some resolution.
"it won't give up... it wants me dead..."
"god damn this voice inside my head"
I need the first line to retain continuity... just wouldn't sound right without it.
=]
posted @ 11:31
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Monday, July 14, 2003
post://105838197509736399/I went to the local hospital the other day, the administrative building, to see if I might find a job. There was a waiting room of sorts, a whole "recruitment department" which had computers to be able to sign up for positions online.
When I arrived, I was seccond to another woman who said she had filed an application before, that she had an interview... the recruitment worker was confused, what the woman was telling her didn't pan out -- that wasn't how they did things. The woman eventually confirmed (as in-directly, and with as little responsibility as possible) that she needed to fill out an application. She was trying to lie her way into it (say she submitted the application, that they lost it, and might give her preference for some better jobs maybe?) because she was "computer illiterate" as she put it.
I had just turned the computer on - thinking I could just pop on it while she was dealing with this woman. She hit the button, turned it off, and left the room.
It was quite funny to me, she didn't notice the button and I knew it wouldn't do squat until she returned. Once she did -- she was confused, hit the button again and turned it on sucessfully, again leaving the room.
She came back once it was back up, but the woman was still helpless, couldn't follow the step by step instructions as to how to get to the web site (with pictures) so apparently she had never used one, or probably it was just the 'internet' aspect of it.
posted @ 21:59
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Saturday, July 12, 2003
post://105805641691671986/Hung out last night with people from work -- when I got out we played the "Officespace Drinking Game" (see link from a few days ago).
We played with beer sips... and it was so well thought out... worked perfectly. Right where the movie would normally get dull -- many many drinks take place shortly before (the "yeah.... hi" repeatedly from Lumburg during the answering machine scene is a killer). Gotta hand it to the guy @ Berkeley =]
Hard alcohol is a no no for this one -- wouldn't make it through the movie :] We had a hard enough time as it was - "He's in a cooobliclal! DREINK!" =] I certainly recommended it, I had a blast. We had 5 or 6 people from work which was a good number, just enough beer to go around.
Tomorrow is the big day! It's the Mazda Rev-It-Up Competition and I'm competing! You spend the first half of the day getting driving tips, safety instruction, then try and beat a pro-driver's course time while avoiding obstacles in a tricked out Mazda 6. I'm going with a few friends, they're just watching, but there's a lot more to do there like the XBox tent and the go-kart racing -- should be a lot of fun, and hopefully it'll be nice out =]
posted @ 20:33
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post://105797073816999852/
I was with my good friend Jamie, her boyfriend Carlos (who's a sweetheart). They're both super athletic and star performers. Cheerleading and soccer, respectively.
We hung out for a while, went for a drive - and I was able to visit the person I most wanted to see. We did some more driving - then back to my place where we hung out till almost morning just talking.
It was simple, it was relaxed, it was theraputic. We talked for a long time - I tried not to dwell on the whole upcoming D-day, but said enough to make myself feel better. I think the more people I tell my plan to - the better the chance it will work.
We even brought up and confirmed the whole "mental/physical fit theory".
(07/15/03 - added link to cited post)
posted @ 00:43
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Friday, July 11, 2003
post://105797059921066563/I think the more people I tell my plan to - the better the chance it will work.
I am not so sure about the time frames, however -- school starts before I can collect, I can't file the "education extension" until after I'm already registered for bennefits. I can't start classes before I file the "education extension" or they take all bennefits away (I found this out first hand in late 2001). I was in school, getting unemployment, hadn't cleared it with them... wasn't started yet when I received my first 2 checks. On the 3rd "check up" mailer that I had to send back, I noted I was going to school -- they hadn't OK'd it (I didn't know I had to clear it with them first) so they revoked my payments. I went 2 months w/o money before finding my current job, racked up a lot of credit card bills (mainly for gas) and did as much freelance computer work as I could find.
I made it... but only after finding this job. I don't want to do it again... so I really need to check with both the MA D.E.T. and STCC to see if I can pull off the timing thing, otherwise it's cutting it close with going to STCC next semester. .:sigh:. A semester off is what I was looking forward to - but would much rather be secure.
posted @ 20:43
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Wednesday, July 09, 2003
post://105779773957570322/A few months ago I had issues with my kitty.
I brought her to the hospital, had her stay there a few days. They ran many a test and still they were unable to tell me what was wrong. I finally took her home, to live in piece as I knew the end was near.
When she was in so much pain and weak that she was unable to walk I had to bring her in to be put to sleep. They wanted to charge me an extra $75 to be there with her (because it required a doctor). I thought that was horrible, and I was unable to afford it, though I wish I had just done it... but with the current news I've received regarding my employment future and having just received the related bills... I am asking for only a $1 in Memory of Franna.
I can't promise a plaque, at least not phyiscally - but you will be honored forever in the Franna Gallery and you will have my gratitude.
posted @ 20:42
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post://105779022502422189/
The waiting is the hardest part
every day get one more yard
you take it in faith, you take it to heart
don't let it kill ya baby
don't let it get to ya
don't let it kill ya baby
don't let it get to ya
___________________
That could apply to a few things in my life right now, the 60 days looming over me... the seemingly endless beginning to school - for several reasons, people will go back to their "regular" routines for the most part, and I'll probably be starting classes then as well. I now have to get my shit together and register.
What it most triggered in my mind is the final destination I have in my mind. The anticipation of reaching that point, that goal -- the waiting.
posted @ 18:37
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post://105777888324311390/
MA D.E.T. - File a Claim
MA D.E.T. - Training Application
List of Major Employers of Springfield
Bachelor Prank: Sweden Style
The Officespace Drinking Game
Tidy Up(mpeg)
I've noticed everyone's nicer, more personable. They know that everyone's stressed, everyone's having a hard time... and it's not uncommon to hear "You OK?" or "How you holding up?" as it's a valid question for virtually everyone.
People are making arrangements, preparing to move out - find another place, possibly sell their car.
It's somewhat depressing, but it doesn't feel like you're alone -- like I'm not blaming myself like I would if say-- I got fired. Everyone's in the same boat... except the few people who managed to hop on a lifeboat... and that's only cause they're the only ones who know how to row.
posted @ 15:28
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Tuesday, July 08, 2003
post://105770461063880950/Draft copy:: not to be published until after "D-Day"
My separation from RCN today was a bit of a milestone. I've never said where I worked before, for fear of repercussions and separation of employment... but don't have to worry about that now, though this won't be published/available until after all is said and done.
I don't feel like my time's wasted. I'm almost thankful that it's happened now. I have 2 years+ experience in telecommunications under my belt, and am almost finished with my programming degree.
I have always said that I wish I got layed off - could go back to school, maybe work a part time job... and now here's my chance.
My only worry is that unemployment won't be enough for emergencies that come up.
Only time will tell.
posted @ 18:51
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post://105770326223806534/
He could never keep things straight, meetings, events... and sometimes having troubles recalling events.
I've collected media since, text, pictures, video... as much as I can collect.
This way when I want to go back and remember a certain thing that happened, I'll have something to refresh and retrieve the memory from my head =]
I got some news today that might put a damper on my phone purchase... probably going to be watching my expenditures rather closely for the next 2 months.
I'd love to elaborate -- but it might put my "everance-say" at risk.
Check this entry in September and I'll publish the draft.
posted @ 18:27
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post://105768567632715027/
I made a great fruit platter last night! I had a hankerin' so I bought a bunch of fruit while at the grocery store, came home and cut it all up!
It was amazing, and wish I had pictures cause I made it all pretty... and about 8 inches tall, piled with fruit in interesting patterns =]
I've so been wanting to buy a camera phone - would be perfect for moments like that. I still have yet to buy a digital camera, so would kill 2 birds with one stone, and could swap my SIM card from my new phone to the old phone if I think there's potential smashage/drippage/dropage/water-logage to the phone. =]
posted @ 13:34
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post://106295165726664368/
I don't feel like my time's wasted. I'm almost thankful that it's happened now. I have 2 years+ experience in telecommunications under my belt, and am almost finished with my programming degree.
I have always said that I wish I got layed off - could go back to school, maybe work a part time job... and now here's my chance.
My only worry is that unemployment won't be enough for emergencies that come up.
Only time will tell.
posted @ 12:20
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Monday, July 07, 2003
post://105768496417169349/I hate to be a one note horse here, but what do you do when all of a sudden you don't feel welcome?
--
I asked my friend who was going with another friend to go out to eat if they would mind if I tagged along. I was greeted with silence : OK, I can take a hint, that's fine, but then she said "well, you comin?" when she was ready to leave, without really saying anything in-between, like "Yeah! Come on!" or even a "sure". I said OK -- we were taking separate cars, but I had issues due to my electrical problem, didn't look like I was going to be able to start the car. I sent her a text message to cancel... received a call shortly after getting the car started after some fiddling and said "well I thought I was having issues -- but I got it". I asked if I should come because I didn't want it to be all uncomfortable if she really didn't want me there... I'd just rather not go. Again -- silence as a reply. Just freakin say something! yes? no? .:sigh:. Silence = no by default because it's the more difficult answer.
--
I was flustered and perturbed, went for a drive, got it out... and eventually spoke with a few other friends. I had the feeling I was being pushy, but under normal circumstances I would have been given the replies above... or at least some form of acknowledgement that didn't convey annoyance.
"Nuh!" =]~
posted @ 20:22
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post://105760884455231582/
When it's so egotistical, foolish, unthinking, and inconsiderate that it makes one cringe... I caught the meaning, but try to formulate the words so as to not insinuate an insult, a dig, or a gloat. Sheesh.
(...or maybe I'm just jealous)
posted @ 13:40
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Sunday, July 06, 2003
post://105768530017121855/I went to the Springfield Quadrangle today with Jon, Heather, Scott, & Laura.
Check out the link for some really cool pictures of our day out (and me with Dr Suess, or Stan Lee as I like to call him).
There was many an interesting thing, with a few uninteresting things inbetween. I'm always one for the history of the local area, and was particularly taken by the maps of old Springfield. Shortly after it's being founded, it was divided up into rectangles on the map. Each rectangle had the owners name on it, and you could see many people that streets and areas are now named after.
posted @ 23:23
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Saturday, July 05, 2003
post://105744306151979837/I was playing with the search engine thingy -- it has text ads, at least it's not in your face flashing .gifs everywhere. It has a few "recommended links" to the right as well, depending what they want to sell and what you were searching for.
In the process of indexing: look what I found!
I'm about to write something similar the last entry yet again -- but I'll get more into that in a bit.
The Real Hussein (flash)
posted @ 20:11
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post://105743653850335504/
Any domains that I come across that are featured will be added to the links page for easy retrieval at a later date. I'm also well on my way to adding a search function to scour the past entries... will be adding that soon (and should be ad free if I can finangle the .cgi).
Check out this keyboard for pirates (posted July 3rd).
Check out this movie of "The Honda Commercial Americans wouldn't get". (flash 6 required)
A naughty film (QT) with thumbs?
WOW! That is all I have to say.
A British biotech firm says they've created a vaccine for cocaine addiction. It stops it from working, dissassociates the good feelings from usage... and thereby should stop the desire to use it.
Norwegians encouraged to "get out more often" with new Safe Summer Sex campaign.
A friend had this author as a customer the other day. It looks like a good book.
Animation: Cows With Guns (flash)
Nose picking: Just don't get carried away with it.
Today just isn't a day for dial-up users: What is your tongue up to when you're asleep? (mpeg)
posted @ 16:22
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Friday, July 04, 2003
post://105735921369152842/(for when you come home drunk this evening and still don't quite want to go to bed)
Virtual Mac OSX 10.3 (Panther) - walk-through
Some bands haave decided to shun the per track iTunes sales model
Just can't seem to manually ping Weblogs.com for your site correctly? That's because the link to it's broken, but a little investigation finds improper capitalization at fault... that's why lowercase is so great!
Apparently there's a bit of a hacker contest going on this weekend. I suppose it's a good time to do it, considering limited admins available due to the holiday.
Hey look! It's Avril's butt!
Some of the Hubble's best pics.
One of the only scientific studies I've heard in regards to Playboy: How the centerfolds change with the economic climate.
Meet "The Man on the Street.
Liberty University Dress Code: Female | Male
A rather amusing traffic accident.
MILF?
Possible reason to buy a Hummer?
What would you do with all your drug money?
You can tell that this article was written by a male - he's shocked, because he knows that most lap dances are a little bit more then that... as long as you go to the right establishment.
Who needs 14,000 worth of booze?
posted @ 18:53
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post://105735309022441682/
~ Blogger is advocating the "free Google toolbar"
~ The free Google toolbar is infamous for it's information collecting and privacy concerns. Yes -- millions of people everywhere trust you not to throw a sneaky little thing like that onto blogger.com... and there it is.
I feel productive, made the most of my limited break time here @ work --
CSS is a wonderful thing. In other words the links page looks fairly normal -- now just to fill in the empty spaces. I'm still partial to the white. I'm going to play around with the planet background, maybe do a little contrast/brightness adjustment, but making sure it's still readable. I'd hate to ruin the readability and simplicity, but desire color in the links window.
What to do... what to do...
I'm hopefully jettin outta here right from work to Worcester this evening.
The "Grand Nationals" are going on this weekend... and all the cars come out to play. I believe the burnout competitions are going on tonight -- kinda interesting to watch, but you can never find a spot close enough... and if you do the smoke is enough to kill ya ;)
Otherwise the best thing to do is just hang out in the car - make sure you've got enough gas, some blacklights, strobes, and/or neons, loud music... and a few chicas (where available). It's a fun evening, usually run into people I know -- a sort of motor-festival ^-^
I'm looking forward to not getting in trouble this evening, but right now it looks like I might be the only one -- everyone's busy with 4th of July and whatnot, haven't been able to get ahold of anyone.
I'm meeting my buddy Jay from highschool out there -- haven't seen him in forever. He just got one of those new Sunfires. They look sleek with the new front end. He's got the Circuit City hookup for the stereo -- haven't seen either the car or stereo, and he's yet to see mine. I'm looking forward to seeing him, mainly -- used to chill all the time, now I'm lucky if I see him a couple times a year.
posted @ 17:11
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Thursday, July 03, 2003
post://105728025325251993/So I had to bring my car in for an electrical issue (yeah, the one I just bought... with 5000 miles on it). From what the service guy said they're having similar issues with all the Mazdaspeed models due to the extra complicated alarm (shock sensor). I don't give a hoot about the sophisticated stock alarm... active word here being stock -- no. I need to have it working correctly first - however, as that is what the warranty is all about and also that way they won't be able to blame it on the aftermarket alarm if anything should happen further down the road.
First: the dealership -
A man arguing at the parts counter, perturbed and just wanting someone to listen to him. I can understand - 2000 626 with 30,000 miles -- 2 months past warranty, and it's broken down on the side of the road with a coolant issue. Overheating can't be good for the engine as a whole. He says: "I bought a Mazda so I wouldn't have to worry about things like this! Everyone says: buy a Japanese car!" the guy behind the counter says: "Well you should have bought a Toyota, that's what I have."
~ I couldn't believe it, what gall.
2nd: the ride home -
They have a 'shuttle service' so I got a ride from them - idle chit chat here and there with the guy after making a cell call or two... he's from the area, knows the roads as I can tell from his shortcut through the traffic-free areas of the city. He is about to take a turn down a one way street (the wrong way, of course) but catches himself.
Not meaning for it to be related to his snafu I asked: "So do you do most of the driving, or do you guys trade off?"
"Oh, I do all the driving." {pause} "I don't normally do that... head's really busy" {pause} "I just recently broke up with my girlfriend, was living with her and her kid. Well, she met someone on the internet... was talking to him for about 3 weeks (it was most likely a lot longer then that, but I wasn't about to tell him otherwise) then flew off to Jordan.
Now your question might be: "middle east -- Jordan?" as mine was.
"Yeah, middle east Jordan... then she comes back Mrs Baghdad"
I figured he was joking, chuckled a little... but her name really was Mrs Baghdad. Apparently they married just for the green card, so he says... but I wouldn't put it past him. "Aha, I've finally found a naive American woman who will marry me into America!"
The biggest issue was custody. He had been living with them for a while, and since she just took off -- no provisions for her child (he's 14/15) he filed for guardianship. She then comes home about 11 o'clock and gets into a giant argument - yelling and fighting... man, just a bad scene.
I wished him luck.
So other people really do have it a bit more rough, keep that in mind.
After a second drive with the guy I learned he used to work for MediaOne... running cable for my building, then when AT&T went to Charter they cut back on the contractors. He was one of them, so now he's a driver for a Mazda dealership.
I can't imagine working in an entirely different field, with telecommunications booming like it was... feeling all confident about the future, then *BLAM* you get cut and you're no where near telecommunications.
He seemed like a happy guy, had some jokes between us... all in all a very pleasant guy. Probably the only one worth any salt at that dealership.
Oh... and I called Mazda customer service with all my complaints against this particular dealership. There's just so much that shouldn't be at this place, stuff that was perfect at the Shrewsburry dealership... and is probably the only reason why I noticed and have an issue with it.
posted @ 20:57
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Tuesday, July 01, 2003
post://105710551105214638/Well I recently added a new mini-section.
You may have noticed the new links page. This was to give back to all those that have linked in the past... as I know my past page was pretty pathetic after only about a month. ;)
I've also gone through the past 2 months of posts, pulled out any major domain and/or major link that I might refer to.
The newest addition, boasas.com is a rather amusing comic. You'll find that under "B"... it ought to be fairly self explanatory. I've stuck to alphabetizing by the domain name, though I'll use the proper title where available.
Forgive the "floating white box" effect, I'm looking to fix that with a little fiddling with Adobe when I get a minute. This is mainly just to test out the theory that's been floating around in my head.
Being unable to add a search box to my blog... and always wanting to find those particular links that are burred within hundreds of entries - sorting alphabetically seemed the best way to go. I figured anything past 2 months would be more likely to be defunct, but if you've got a favorite that was featured further back and it still works -- GIMME!
Most of the letters don't have any links, I'll deactivate the ones w/o anything when I get to it, activate them as I get qualifying links.
posted @ 20:25
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(Almost) Daily Links for your perusal:
Links Updated at 11:38 AM
I had to put all the links here so they could still be robot'd since I was having issues with the whole dual click nature of the modern browsers.
music recommendations
links
discuss (no longer in service)
...mysterious
pictures
mobile
archive
music recommendations
links
discuss (no longer in service)
...mysterious
pictures
mobile
archive