Baby is bitchy as hell today. Liz and I are both frazzled.
NORAD Tracks Santa
Just a reminder that Santa has already began his voyage. Here's a link to the NORAD site:
http://www.noradsanta.org/en/index.html
http://www.noradsanta.org/en/index.html
More Santa tech
How Santa executes landings in bad weather at the North Pole:
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/12/thanks-to-instrument-approach-santa-can-land-in-bad-weather/
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/12/thanks-to-instrument-approach-santa-can-land-in-bad-weather/
How & Why NORAD tracks Santa
It all began with a call on the "red phone" from a little kid. Amazing article:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13772_3-10418101-52.html
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13772_3-10418101-52.html
See Norway by Train. From Your Laptop.
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/12/bergensnanen-free-download/
The Norwegian broadcasting company does it again! I love these people and their embrace of the future.
The Norwegian broadcasting company does it again! I love these people and their embrace of the future.
Last night was actually a lot of fun. Kat and her boyfriend visited, Elizabeth made pizza, and we played some Rock Band. Been quite a while since I had a full 4 piece band together. Even Chloe throttled back on her 4 day streak of teething terror.
I think that hour nap in the afternoon helped me out too.
I think that hour nap in the afternoon helped me out too.
VZ Media Manager Update
This might be what's new. Still have not found official readme.
Also coming up with version 1.7 is bidirectional side-loading of devices. What the frak is that? Verizon FiOS already lets you browse media (videos, music and photos) from computers on your home network; now you'll be able to browse media on devices attached to those computers via USB ? portable media players, cameras, phones or whatever. There's no software to install, no delay; just plug them in and they'll show up in your FiOS Media Manager menu.
Also coming up with version 1.7 is bidirectional side-loading of devices. What the frak is that? Verizon FiOS already lets you browse media (videos, music and photos) from computers on your home network; now you'll be able to browse media on devices attached to those computers via USB ? portable media players, cameras, phones or whatever. There's no software to install, no delay; just plug them in and they'll show up in your FiOS Media Manager menu.
Babies should not watch TV
American Acadamy of Pediatrics recommends no TV for children under the age of 2 and only 1/2 hour for kids over 2. Period. Anything else is an excuse. I'm sick of debating this point. There are mountains of research on this topic; More than most other things I look into. Am I gonna follow this? Nope, but I'm sick of arguing the point. Its not okay to watch together. Its not okay to watch a little. NO TV. Get it? Do I need to print out the studies?
eBook on sale this morning
Newegg has the Jetbook lite on sale for $117 for AM Shell Shocker. Linky.
Too Much Drama
I'm not up to being social right now. Between the hollidays, court case, and latest kid drama, I'm kinda... socialed out.
Hot Deal Today Only
Photoworks is offering their mugs with personalized photos for $5 with free shipping after applying coupon code 5DOLLARMUG
Slappy the Clue-by-4
Repost from 11/4. Don't make me keep posting it:
Ya know, its kinda funny to have to explain myself when its just Mom, Liz, and Brandon here, but... whatever.
Just like how most of what I say should be taken with a wink and a smile, so it is with my writing as well.
Ya know, its kinda funny to have to explain myself when its just Mom, Liz, and Brandon here, but... whatever.
Just like how most of what I say should be taken with a wink and a smile, so it is with my writing as well.
Verizon Response re: DMCA notices
Not official, but the best summary I've seen so far:
"Dont forget. For Verizon, this is really not a change. Verizon is not monitoring your usage. They are not tracking anything. All that is happening is that the RIAA notifies Verizon that there is a violator using a Verizon IP address. The RIAA will send a warning letter to Verizon and then Verizon will forward that letter to the offender. BUT will NOT share the offenders information with the RIAA. They have been doing this for years. The only change is in the test market, is that they are sending a more strongly worded letter. And all the threats of cancelation and other "penalties" that the RIAA wants included have been removed because Verizon does not want to play the roll of "Internet Monitor". It is too expensive to monitor and manage this type of system and none of the ISP's want to fork out the money to do so. The RIAA wants ISP's to start booting customers off the networks for infringements and Verizon and the other ISP's are not willing to do this, so Verizon offered the compromise to send a more "strongly worded" letter. Nothing is changing. This has already been happening since the demise of the original Napster."
"Dont forget. For Verizon, this is really not a change. Verizon is not monitoring your usage. They are not tracking anything. All that is happening is that the RIAA notifies Verizon that there is a violator using a Verizon IP address. The RIAA will send a warning letter to Verizon and then Verizon will forward that letter to the offender. BUT will NOT share the offenders information with the RIAA. They have been doing this for years. The only change is in the test market, is that they are sending a more strongly worded letter. And all the threats of cancelation and other "penalties" that the RIAA wants included have been removed because Verizon does not want to play the roll of "Internet Monitor". It is too expensive to monitor and manage this type of system and none of the ISP's want to fork out the money to do so. The RIAA wants ISP's to start booting customers off the networks for infringements and Verizon and the other ISP's are not willing to do this, so Verizon offered the compromise to send a more "strongly worded" letter. Nothing is changing. This has already been happening since the demise of the original Napster."
Another thing to consider: Most people have 9 months to come to terms with having a baby. I had 1 day notice and have been a parent for less than 5 months. And not just a normal parent, but the full-tilt stay at home kind. I also have to live with the fact that she's being taken away. I think about a lot of stuff, but this is one scenario that has never even crossed my mind. It certainly calls for a lot of soul searching. When your closest point of reference is '3 Men and a Baby' your some deep shit.
Maybe I should be on the lookout for gangsters...
Maybe I should be on the lookout for gangsters...
Thanksgiving Epilogue
So let's touch on the Thanksgiving rant-a-thon briefly while I listen to the baby snoring on the monitor.
We run a full service blog here at Da Toad's Pad. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll roll your eyes. Who am I addressing? No one, usually [or perhaps everyone]. I usually keep and internal monologue going. This is simply an extension of that. I've never really cared about my public image, and certainly don't give a flying fig now. Sometimes I'm deep, sometimes I'm funny, usually I'm just a tech obsessed geek. This is just me, take it or leave it. At least you know where I stand. The only concession I've made has been to cut out the swearing because of Brandon.
Do I want to talk about it? Meh, not really. I feel like I already have. Your free to ask tho. I think I responded to Mom's direct query on The new Prisoner series with "I think I've said everything I need to say". I don't mean offense. It just takes while to put these blog posts down [especially with the little knee bouncer] that it can feel like I've already discussed something ad nauseum.
Seems like a good time to point out a feature you may not be aware of: At the bottom of both the blog entries as well as the news, there is a link that will take you to older posts.
We run a full service blog here at Da Toad's Pad. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll roll your eyes. Who am I addressing? No one, usually [or perhaps everyone]. I usually keep and internal monologue going. This is simply an extension of that. I've never really cared about my public image, and certainly don't give a flying fig now. Sometimes I'm deep, sometimes I'm funny, usually I'm just a tech obsessed geek. This is just me, take it or leave it. At least you know where I stand. The only concession I've made has been to cut out the swearing because of Brandon.
Do I want to talk about it? Meh, not really. I feel like I already have. Your free to ask tho. I think I responded to Mom's direct query on The new Prisoner series with "I think I've said everything I need to say". I don't mean offense. It just takes while to put these blog posts down [especially with the little knee bouncer] that it can feel like I've already discussed something ad nauseum.
Seems like a good time to point out a feature you may not be aware of: At the bottom of both the blog entries as well as the news, there is a link that will take you to older posts.
Dog Tired
Don't expect much here today. BG was up 2:30-4:30 AM.
Don't understand the expression "dog tired". "Cat tired" seems more appropriate.
Don't understand the expression "dog tired". "Cat tired" seems more appropriate.
Chloe Level Up
Its the 30th. Chloe is 5 months old today. Time to level up.
Chloe has learned to sit up and earned 650XP. She has is now a level 5 Newborn and gains 3 skill points. She has allocated 2 points to Speech [she's loud now!] and 1 point to Locomotion. Chloe gets to choose 1 perk @ lvl5 and chooses "Toe Sucker".
Chloe has learned to sit up and earned 650XP. She has is now a level 5 Newborn and gains 3 skill points. She has allocated 2 points to Speech [she's loud now!] and 1 point to Locomotion. Chloe gets to choose 1 perk @ lvl5 and chooses "Toe Sucker".
Confessions of a Small, Petty ManChild
Yeah, I know how petty is sounds. I try not to lie to myself [or anyone] that I'm some super guy. I try to do the right thing, even while bitching about it; but come on! I chose not to go down this road. I was happy living my pointless, little petty life. Yeah, sure, sometimes I get a little down that I'll be left alone and forgotten on my death bed but that's just the end of the life I wanted to lead. I didn't want to give up everything to further the next generation. I liked what I did. It was nothing great [or even good], but I was happy.
I even tried to give back in my own way. I used to go Black Friday shopping at ToysR Us and pick up all the cheap stuff just to dump it in the Toys4Tots bin. I'd give money to pan handlers. I'm not a bad guy. I just don't want to give up my life for... I don't even really know what parents think. I don't care. I just wanna fix PCs and piss away the money on video games. I know most people would spit on this; Call me a waste of O2. That's okay. I make no apologies, no excuses. It was my choice.
was
...and at the end, I knew I'd have to lie in that bed I'd made. No excuses. But at least I would know how I got there. Regrets? Maybe. I can't say. Probably.
The Grateful Dead sand "I may be goin' to hell in a bucket, but at least I'm enjoying the ride"
I might not be a good guy, but I'm sure as hell not a bad guy either. Just not productive to society. Whatever that means. Whatever that's worth.
Totally just rambling now. Don't even know what the point was when I started writing this. Gonna go play a video game.
I even tried to give back in my own way. I used to go Black Friday shopping at ToysR Us and pick up all the cheap stuff just to dump it in the Toys4Tots bin. I'd give money to pan handlers. I'm not a bad guy. I just don't want to give up my life for... I don't even really know what parents think. I don't care. I just wanna fix PCs and piss away the money on video games. I know most people would spit on this; Call me a waste of O2. That's okay. I make no apologies, no excuses. It was my choice.
was
...and at the end, I knew I'd have to lie in that bed I'd made. No excuses. But at least I would know how I got there. Regrets? Maybe. I can't say. Probably.
The Grateful Dead sand "I may be goin' to hell in a bucket, but at least I'm enjoying the ride"
I might not be a good guy, but I'm sure as hell not a bad guy either. Just not productive to society. Whatever that means. Whatever that's worth.
Totally just rambling now. Don't even know what the point was when I started writing this. Gonna go play a video game.
So baby1 is asleep in the back room and baby3 is in the Florida room. The kids are gone [surprise]. We're left with another fine mess [tm]. The last baby that spent the night here never left. I'm blowing a gasket.
Elizabeth asked what it takes for a mother to disown a child. I told her I didn't know and never thought about it because I never expected to be in this kind of position. Told her to call my mom and ask.
John overheard Sarah talking to a girl at work and saying she wants to have more kids. I'm ready to stroke out just typing that.
Elizabeth asked what it takes for a mother to disown a child. I told her I didn't know and never thought about it because I never expected to be in this kind of position. Told her to call my mom and ask.
John overheard Sarah talking to a girl at work and saying she wants to have more kids. I'm ready to stroke out just typing that.
So I'm watching the video game lightning deals because they have Brutal Legend coming up [was $35 BTW. Passed. Was in if under $30] and I noticed they also have a DS game deal going live @ the same time. The DS game turns out the be 'the littlest pet shop'. Guess which one sold out first. Yep. Littlest Pet Shop :} Sold out almost instantly. Brutal Legend is still available.
Happyish Thanksgiving
Baby's been screaming bloody murder since 5am. Who the hell expects the people with a newborn baby to be making the dinner anyway...
The Black Turkey
I haven't seen this for a couple years. This this the legendary Black Turkey recipe that circulated newsgroups looong before the internet, back when we all dialed into BBSs:
http://www.europeancuisines.com/Christmas-Thanksgiving-The-Famous-Black-Turkey-Recipe-Of-Morton-Thompson
This is still a fantastic read as even the stuff you get drunk on while cooking is horribly complicated :}
An oldie, but a goody from before it was hip to be square.
http://www.europeancuisines.com/Christmas-Thanksgiving-The-Famous-Black-Turkey-Recipe-Of-Morton-Thompson
This is still a fantastic read as even the stuff you get drunk on while cooking is horribly complicated :}
An oldie, but a goody from before it was hip to be square.
All 4 episodes of Wallace and Gromit's Grand Adventures for only $9.95. That's apparently a $25 savings. Don't know when it ends, but its for a limited time.
http://www.telltalegames.com/store/wallaceandgromitsgrandadventures/2
http://www.telltalegames.com/store/wallaceandgromitsgrandadventures/2
Yeah, I know you're reading this upsidedown...
but, even that metaphorical music videos are full of FAIL. Shouldn't #2 have poured out the water in front of 6 AFTER he put the grenade in 6's mouth?
What's even the point anymore? Ooo, 6 saw [mystery something] working for a CCTV company and was snatched away...just like in 100 other movies. The original has 6 as a former secret agent who resigns and asks "What would happen to James Bond if he quit". Ironically, that's not even one of the comments on society the original series made; Its just the setup.
Oh, and I've only seen 2 out of the 6 episodes. I'm just gonna watch the last one and call it quits. Lets face facts, the ending of the original show, while artsy, sucked ass anyway.
What's even the point anymore? Ooo, 6 saw [mystery something] working for a CCTV company and was snatched away...just like in 100 other movies. The original has 6 as a former secret agent who resigns and asks "What would happen to James Bond if he quit". Ironically, that's not even one of the comments on society the original series made; Its just the setup.
Oh, and I've only seen 2 out of the 6 episodes. I'm just gonna watch the last one and call it quits. Lets face facts, the ending of the original show, while artsy, sucked ass anyway.
The Prisoner Remake Review
Let's get this done. The new version of the Prisoner SUCKS. It fails on nearly every level. Do we really need to spend 10 minutes of every episode watching sand blow around while #6's interview with a Village shrink reduced to 2 lines. Why is #6 even paranoid that every one in The Village is an agent when he hasn't been betrayed yet? What is up with all the dialog being whispered? Worst of all, who let monkeys edit this thing together? The Prisoner was sometimes confusing because the plot demanded it. The new Prisoner is confusing because reality, flashbacks, and metaphorical music videos are randomly edited together.
This is a sham. They've taken a thoughtful, FUN, scifi [syfi?] series that is MORE relevant that when it was created and turned it into an amateur rip off of Twin Peaks with no soul. And edited by monkeys.
This is a sham. They've taken a thoughtful, FUN, scifi [syfi?] series that is MORE relevant that when it was created and turned it into an amateur rip off of Twin Peaks with no soul. And edited by monkeys.
OK, I've posted about this before, but mom brought it up so:
BG's not a big fan of music. We only play recorded music once a week or so and try all the genre's I can think of [internet radio rules all!]. In the car she loves Bob Marley and Dire Straights. She is also a fan of punk rock oddly enough. Other than that, its just me singing made up songs about what we're doing [I actually have 2 ditties about burping]. The real songs I sing to her include:
three little birds: bob marley
here comes the sun: the beatles
the rock show: blink 182
pick me up before u go go: george michael
She's also pretty good about putting up with whatever I play in guitar hero/rock band because she likes the rhythmic clack-clack of the controller.
BG's not a big fan of music. We only play recorded music once a week or so and try all the genre's I can think of [internet radio rules all!]. In the car she loves Bob Marley and Dire Straights. She is also a fan of punk rock oddly enough. Other than that, its just me singing made up songs about what we're doing [I actually have 2 ditties about burping]. The real songs I sing to her include:
three little birds: bob marley
here comes the sun: the beatles
the rock show: blink 182
pick me up before u go go: george michael
She's also pretty good about putting up with whatever I play in guitar hero/rock band because she likes the rhythmic clack-clack of the controller.
Anyone Need Plates?
16-piece Corelle Dinnerware Set $18
http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/26570/16-piece-Corelle-Dinnerware-Set-18
http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/26570/16-piece-Corelle-Dinnerware-Set-18
There is another big clearance at Gamefly. No PS3 stuff, so I'm out:
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=243211
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=243211
Coming out of the closet
Let me let you in on one of my darker gaming secrets. There is a type of crappy Wii games I just can't get enough of. Hint: Its "better than mama".
Yup. Cooking games. Love 'em. Shame I haven't seen a new one for a while other than Cooking Mama 3 (ironically, my least favorite series]
Yup. Cooking games. Love 'em. Shame I haven't seen a new one for a while other than Cooking Mama 3 (ironically, my least favorite series]
PS3 in 3D!
Turns out that all PS3s will be getting a firmware upgrade that will allow the system to display games in 3d with the use of shutter glasses! All you need is a 3d capable TV!
Wait... What?
Wait... What?
Elizabeth is PISSED. Seems that the kids want to move back in with her brother Carl "because he misses them and seems sad". Oh, and to save money for a lawyer in spite of the fact that a verdict has been rendered and they don't know what it means.
BTW, DCF Pinellas has nothing entered into their record keeping system re:this mysterious verdict. Sarah still has not forwarded anyone this enigmatic email that states there was a verdict.
BTW, DCF Pinellas has nothing entered into their record keeping system re:this mysterious verdict. Sarah still has not forwarded anyone this enigmatic email that states there was a verdict.
Scribblenauts!
Look, buy, borrow, or steal a Nintendo DS and play Scribblenauts! I'm only gonna go over this a few dozen more times.
Here's an interview for Elizabeth: Its Baiyon [composer/art:Pixeljunk Eden] talking with Takahashi [Katamari/Noby Noby].
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/26033/InDepth_PixelJunks_Baiyon_Vs_Katamaris_Takahashi.php
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/26033/InDepth_PixelJunks_Baiyon_Vs_Katamaris_Takahashi.php
Visualize This!
Turns out Elvis was a HUGE fan of Month Python's Holly Grail. He would regularly act out the fight w/the Black Knight.
Pop culture implosion!
Pop culture implosion!
I loved this line of minis when it was introduced several years ago, but I never dared to dream of the cavalry they've just released. Click the link to find out what the heck I'm talking about:
http://theminiaturespage.com/news/570279
http://theminiaturespage.com/news/570279
New Baby Pics
5 new pictures added to Chloe @ 3months album on Picasa. Like the last batch, Elizabeth snapped them from the Blackberry and sent them to be to be emailed to Mom. Its easier to send 'em to Picasa, so... there ya go. Link in the sidebar
80s Sitcom Moment
I picked up Chloe and put her on my lap facing me. "Are we having a babyriffic morning? You 'talking' and playing with your toys. You happy today?"
She smiled and emptied her stomach all over the both of us.
She smiled and emptied her stomach all over the both of us.
Deal Alert
Deepdiscount.com is doing a "mega sale". All BluRay & DVDs are 40% off. Books & CDs are 30% off.
I've used 'em several times. They're a great company to deal with.
I've used 'em several times. They're a great company to deal with.
IMPORTANT: VERIZON SENDING RIAA NOTICES
Verizon will begin sending RIAA "copyright infringement" notices to alleged file sharers. If Verizon is now in the pocket of the RIAA, you can bet they'll also be selling out to the MPAA. Fortunately, I am a fan of software and the ESA can't afford to purchase politicians [at least not yet]. In the meanwhile, I'll be staying away from high profile "acquisitions" until we see where this goes. I'm also going to look into a private VPN service.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-10396787-93.html
http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-10396787-93.html
3 Liter Root Beer for $1?
Have you seen soda prices lately? They are asinine! I haven't had time to make soda like I used to. Imagine my interest when I found a 3 liter bottle of root beer in the $1 store. What does such cheap soda taste like? A lot like diet cream soda actually...
I love free Google stuff!
I was reading an article on Google new programming language and it occured to me that people don't know about one of my favorite Google services. This one doesn't even need a computer: 1-800-goog411!
Its just like calling information only smarter and free! You don't even have to pay if you let it connect you! Hit the link for details:
http://www.google.com/goog411/
I was reading an article on Google new programming language and it occured to me that people don't know about one of my favorite Google services. This one doesn't even need a computer: 1-800-goog411!
Its just like calling information only smarter and free! You don't even have to pay if you let it connect you! Hit the link for details:
http://www.google.com/goog411/
I think I'm about ready to apply for custody. Granted, this is the first baby supply run Sarah & John have missed, but its not like they've been spending much time with her anyway. So, here's the story:
Er, I mean the truth:
Chloe ran away. These things happen Que sera sera. But I have good news! Elizabeth & I secretly had a baby! I'd like everyone to meet Toffee Krutzler! She's a 15.5lb 4mo. old baby girl. Send presents! Sorry for the secrecy, just didn't want it to interfere with the DCF stuff.
And if anyone knows where I can pick up a social security number on the cheap, let me know. Its not related, of course.
Er, I mean the truth:
Chloe ran away. These things happen Que sera sera. But I have good news! Elizabeth & I secretly had a baby! I'd like everyone to meet Toffee Krutzler! She's a 15.5lb 4mo. old baby girl. Send presents! Sorry for the secrecy, just didn't want it to interfere with the DCF stuff.
And if anyone knows where I can pick up a social security number on the cheap, let me know. Its not related, of course.
Lego Rock Band
What a friggin' rip off! 45 songs?! No online multiplayer?! Granted its not Beatles Rock Band level of rip off, but still! The icing on the cake? Harmonix half-assed the Wii version. Again! You'd thing that the Wii would be the primary platform for this! If you don't own a Xbox, stay far, far away from all Rock Band games. They still haven't even patched the PS3 version of Rock Band 2. Play Guitar Hero instead.
Guilt Trip Post
BTW, since I'm working on this Beatles project for Mom, let me just take a quick moment out of baby nap time to lay down some guilt.
I'm truely heartbroken that no one could take 1hr. out the of the past month to help me troubleshoot the web server. I emailed 9 people and received 0 email responses. Elizabeth got a text from Katherine saying "It doesn't work" and John gave it a shot from his iPod touch once I pestered him. I mean...damn. Its not like I haven't fixed everyone's PCs for years.
Baby's up. You're off the hook.
I'm truely heartbroken that no one could take 1hr. out the of the past month to help me troubleshoot the web server. I emailed 9 people and received 0 email responses. Elizabeth got a text from Katherine saying "It doesn't work" and John gave it a shot from his iPod touch once I pestered him. I mean...damn. Its not like I haven't fixed everyone's PCs for years.
Baby's up. You're off the hook.
This is the week Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 comes out for PC, PS3, & Xbox. It is expected to shatter all current video game sales records.
Me? I don't actually care that much. I know, shocking. I loved Modern Warfare 1, but... I just downloaded the latest batch of guitar games (seems like I just did that with Guitar Hero 5 & Beatles Rock Band but whatever]. There are very few things I find more satisfying that sitting on the couch strumming my little plastic guitar. Even if its playing music only a tween girl could like (Band Hero & Lego Rock Band].
I honestly have no idea how they expect to sell so many band games this Xmas. With at least 5 new games this year while last years band games being less than half. What would you rather get: Band Hero kit (drums,guitar,mic] with 65 songs for $200 or last years Guitar Hero World Tour (or Rock Band 2] kit w/85 songs for $80-90?
Me? I don't actually care that much. I know, shocking. I loved Modern Warfare 1, but... I just downloaded the latest batch of guitar games (seems like I just did that with Guitar Hero 5 & Beatles Rock Band but whatever]. There are very few things I find more satisfying that sitting on the couch strumming my little plastic guitar. Even if its playing music only a tween girl could like (Band Hero & Lego Rock Band].
I honestly have no idea how they expect to sell so many band games this Xmas. With at least 5 new games this year while last years band games being less than half. What would you rather get: Band Hero kit (drums,guitar,mic] with 65 songs for $200 or last years Guitar Hero World Tour (or Rock Band 2] kit w/85 songs for $80-90?
Now seems a good time to link y'all out to Microsoft's free Anti Virus. Just on case ya didn't know:
http://www.microsoft.com/Security_Essentials/
http://www.microsoft.com/Security_Essentials/
Breakin News
BlueBeat, whom I just linked too, is being sued by EMI for selling the Beatles MP3s.
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2009/11/emi-sues-bluebeat-for-infringing-beatles-copyrights/
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2009/11/emi-sues-bluebeat-for-infringing-beatles-copyrights/
The Spoiling of Baby Chloe
Looks like I've got a lot of stuff to say today. Oh, well. You're free to click elsewhere...
I've heard a few times this week about Chloe getting 'spoiled'. I don't really care much. Let me lay out a few reasons why:
- She's 4 months old. 4 months just 4 days ago.
- She's alone. Have you ever seen a 3 week old baby taken away from its mom? They don't react well.
- The government. With DCF checking in on the baby, I'm paranoid at the slightest scratch. If any kind of accident happens do you realize exactly how fast the unemployed long hair guy gets sent up the river?
- Her future. As soon as she goes home that poor kid is gonna end up sitting in a baby chair in front of the TV until she can walk away to find something else to do. I guess the exception would be the time she'll spend in day care...
- She's my first. Temp or not, she's my first baby. She's cuter when she smiles than when she screams. As far as I'm concerned she can have anything she wants :] She's also good. Elizabeth has said that Chloe is the most well behaved baby ever.
So, how do I get full custody again ;]
Oh, and a name change form. Baby Toffee Krutzler needs a better name ;]
I've heard a few times this week about Chloe getting 'spoiled'. I don't really care much. Let me lay out a few reasons why:
- She's 4 months old. 4 months just 4 days ago.
- She's alone. Have you ever seen a 3 week old baby taken away from its mom? They don't react well.
- The government. With DCF checking in on the baby, I'm paranoid at the slightest scratch. If any kind of accident happens do you realize exactly how fast the unemployed long hair guy gets sent up the river?
- Her future. As soon as she goes home that poor kid is gonna end up sitting in a baby chair in front of the TV until she can walk away to find something else to do. I guess the exception would be the time she'll spend in day care...
- She's my first. Temp or not, she's my first baby. She's cuter when she smiles than when she screams. As far as I'm concerned she can have anything she wants :] She's also good. Elizabeth has said that Chloe is the most well behaved baby ever.
So, how do I get full custody again ;]
Oh, and a name change form. Baby Toffee Krutzler needs a better name ;]
As I am such a hi-tech guy, it may surprise you to know that I use very few devices in taking care of the baby.
Chloe gets .5hrs of TV in the afternoon and .5hrs of music every couple of days. That's about it. Elizabeth cranks up all the cool stuff at night, but during the day its just me singing, giggling & playing baby games with some rattle toys. Sure she sits at my computer desk a lot, but that is just text with a very few Youtube videos thrown in. Might just as well be a glowing encyclopedia on a book stand as far as she's concerned. We've recently started short trips out back to look at the flowers.
Chloe gets .5hrs of TV in the afternoon and .5hrs of music every couple of days. That's about it. Elizabeth cranks up all the cool stuff at night, but during the day its just me singing, giggling & playing baby games with some rattle toys. Sure she sits at my computer desk a lot, but that is just text with a very few Youtube videos thrown in. Might just as well be a glowing encyclopedia on a book stand as far as she's concerned. We've recently started short trips out back to look at the flowers.
Beatles Remastered 4 Free
In case you missed the news story, hit this link to stream all the new remastered Beatles albums for free. Optionally MP3s are a steal [for those that don't steal music, anyway]. Legality of this is still kinda hazy. Here's the original Wired article:
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2009/10/beatles-finally-for-sale-online-on-bluebeat/
You can really hear the quality difference in the new tracks, even when compressed and streamed. +Stereo!
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2009/10/beatles-finally-for-sale-online-on-bluebeat/
You can really hear the quality difference in the new tracks, even when compressed and streamed. +Stereo!
Deal Rumor: Walmart
Walmart secret sale on Saturday rumor:
http://kotaku.com/5395950/xbox-360-with-100-card-for-200-this-weekend
Lots of stuff I wouldn't mind having. Rumored specs on laptop:
HP G60-519WM Notebook: Intel Celeron 900 (2.2GHz, 1MB cache, 800MHz FSB) 15.6" HD, 3072MB DDR2, 250GB(5400rpm) HDD, Windows 7 Home Premium $298
http://kotaku.com/5395950/xbox-360-with-100-card-for-200-this-weekend
Lots of stuff I wouldn't mind having. Rumored specs on laptop:
HP G60-519WM Notebook: Intel Celeron 900 (2.2GHz, 1MB cache, 800MHz FSB) 15.6" HD, 3072MB DDR2, 250GB(5400rpm) HDD, Windows 7 Home Premium $298
Have I mentioned Scibblenauts recently? Have you played Scribblenauts yet? Play Scribblenauts! Play it with someone too. Play it with someone in replay mode [solve the puzzle 3 times without reusing any words].
I really wish this game was on PC or the Wii. Being tied to the DS really kinda limits it. This is a gem for party play. Everyone shouts out whatever they think can solve the puzzle. Since I'm running it under an emulator on the PC, I can tell you first hand exactly how great this game is with a few friends.
Mom, seriously, get this thing for Brandon and play it with him. Also, with 200 puzzles to solve [+replay mode], he's not gonna blow through it in 6 hrs.
I really wish this game was on PC or the Wii. Being tied to the DS really kinda limits it. This is a gem for party play. Everyone shouts out whatever they think can solve the puzzle. Since I'm running it under an emulator on the PC, I can tell you first hand exactly how great this game is with a few friends.
Mom, seriously, get this thing for Brandon and play it with him. Also, with 200 puzzles to solve [+replay mode], he's not gonna blow through it in 6 hrs.
Speaking of gadgets, here's a review of the new WD TV, one of my dream gizmos:
http://www.legitreviews.com/article/1118/1/
http://www.legitreviews.com/article/1118/1/
Okay, everyone knows I love funky peripherals but even I don't know about this one. Well, yeah
I do: its awesome!
http://kotaku.com/5394621/latest-wiimote-attachment-baby
I do: its awesome!
http://kotaku.com/5394621/latest-wiimote-attachment-baby
got my mitts on guitar hero: van halen. you're not gonna believe this: its the world tour engine not hero5!
I mean *censored*! What *censored* *censored* *censored* the *censored* *censored*!!!! Couldn't *censored* *censored* the *censored**censored**censored* game for *censored* sake. *censored* *censored* *censored*!
*censored*...
*censored* *censored*
pfft
I mean *censored*! What *censored* *censored* *censored* the *censored* *censored*!!!! Couldn't *censored* *censored* the *censored**censored**censored* game for *censored* sake. *censored* *censored* *censored*!
*censored*...
*censored* *censored*
pfft
New Music
Let me turn ya'll on to some new tunes.
Sometimes you just get lucky. Mininova had a featured torrent from a band called Kalabi. It was labeled as electronica/trip hop. Normally I'd pass on this, but the baby digs this stuff. Good thing! This is a fantastic album. I'd class it more as world music bordering on atmospheric. Really beautiful stuff and perfect for playing in the background. The icing on the cake is that the band released it for free via Bittorrent.
I should have this streaming on my Unite web server by the time you read this. They also seem to have a bunch of their stuff on Youtube.
Sometimes you just get lucky. Mininova had a featured torrent from a band called Kalabi. It was labeled as electronica/trip hop. Normally I'd pass on this, but the baby digs this stuff. Good thing! This is a fantastic album. I'd class it more as world music bordering on atmospheric. Really beautiful stuff and perfect for playing in the background. The icing on the cake is that the band released it for free via Bittorrent.
I should have this streaming on my Unite web server by the time you read this. They also seem to have a bunch of their stuff on Youtube.
Deal Update
Still no word on when/if Gamestop's b2g1 will be live. Did some rough math using trade ins vs. Brutal Legend + Katamari. Should be about $30. If gift card comes, $5. LoL! Love to walk out of there with 3 newish games for $5!
Gamestop seems to have their used games marked $5 lower online now. Bastards... Edge will make up difference, but still makes me mad. This also hinges on CAG's trade in value list being accurate. You'd thinks GS would post their own trade values already. Really kinda hate GS...
Gamestop seems to have their used games marked $5 lower online now. Bastards... Edge will make up difference, but still makes me mad. This also hinges on CAG's trade in value list being accurate. You'd thinks GS would post their own trade values already. Really kinda hate GS...
Deal Alert Level Orange!
Okay, rumor has it that Gamestop will FINALLY be doing a b2g1 on used stuff "next week". I'm showing Brutal Legend in stock all over Clearwater. Also, due to Best Buy, Amazon, and Toys R Us having done b2g1 on new stuff this month, pickin's should be fantastic. I'm also expecting my GS gift card from epinions any second now. Be ready for the call to arms!
Okay, no one is gonna choose to read this if I just link it in the news section so:
Be sure to check out this interview on a new Disney game being made by Warren Spector (Deus Ex, System Shock, Ultima Underwold: Linky
Lots of interesting about the history of Disney cartoons. Here's a cool excerpt:
"There’s that early phase where he was a rat. There’s just no two ways about it. He was a guy who smoked and drank and shot guns and skewered people with swords and threw Minnie Mouse out of a plane when she wouldn’t kiss him and abused farm animals. He was a badly behaved little guy. As he became more popular, I think Walt started saying, “Let’s make this guy more realistic. Oh, we don’t want to do things with this guy that the world isn’t going to like,” so they started taming him and taking different parts of his personality."
I NEVER identified with Mickey. I mean, what is there to identify with. Donald was always much more entertaining and intriguing. He had emotions, desires, and failings. He was a character. Mickey has always just been a corporate logo.
Be sure to check out this interview on a new Disney game being made by Warren Spector (Deus Ex, System Shock, Ultima Underwold: Linky
Lots of interesting about the history of Disney cartoons. Here's a cool excerpt:
"There’s that early phase where he was a rat. There’s just no two ways about it. He was a guy who smoked and drank and shot guns and skewered people with swords and threw Minnie Mouse out of a plane when she wouldn’t kiss him and abused farm animals. He was a badly behaved little guy. As he became more popular, I think Walt started saying, “Let’s make this guy more realistic. Oh, we don’t want to do things with this guy that the world isn’t going to like,” so they started taming him and taking different parts of his personality."
I NEVER identified with Mickey. I mean, what is there to identify with. Donald was always much more entertaining and intriguing. He had emotions, desires, and failings. He was a character. Mickey has always just been a corporate logo.
Goecities will be decommissioned and deleted tomorrow-along with a huge chunk of the "old internet". It is truely the end of the beginning of the internet. My very first web site is, shockingly, still there. Well, for tonight at least. The date of my last site update is 3/10/1998. Its kinda misty-eyed type for an old tech hound like me.
Farewell Geocities. Thanks for giving everyone a chance to own their own corner of the net for free for so long.
Farewell Geocities. Thanks for giving everyone a chance to own their own corner of the net for free for so long.
Only had 2 bits of activity on the Unitie server, and no feedback at all. Well, Liz said the Fridge didn't work when she was at Jabil. Guess I'm trying to fill a need that doesn't exist.
Still, you'd think someone would have played around with it for kicks by now... No idea about system resources yet.
Still, you'd think someone would have played around with it for kicks by now... No idea about system resources yet.
SQUEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAL!!
Okay, I know this won't mean anything to anyone except Lou and myself, but ARMADA 2526!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Who knew that nearly 20 years later, Armada 2525 would get a sequel. Released in 1991, Armada 2525 was my very favorite 4x space game, tying Master of Orion 2 in my heart. I was still playing this game once in a while even while working for IBM. Hey! The night shift was long and boring...
When do they take preorders!
Okay, I know this won't mean anything to anyone except Lou and myself, but ARMADA 2526!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Who knew that nearly 20 years later, Armada 2525 would get a sequel. Released in 1991, Armada 2525 was my very favorite 4x space game, tying Master of Orion 2 in my heart. I was still playing this game once in a while even while working for IBM. Hey! The night shift was long and boring...
When do they take preorders!
Think I found my tree topper!
http://foolishgadgets.com/200910/light-up-yoda-tree-topper-is-the-best-way-to-top-your-tree/
http://foolishgadgets.com/200910/light-up-yoda-tree-topper-is-the-best-way-to-top-your-tree/
Had a good day with Baby Girl after 3 of the past 4 days were a total scream-a-thon. I think I found the problem. Too many rules. I've been so wrapped up in what is supposed to happen when and what skills a 3 month old should be practicing. It was too much. And wrong, if only slightly. It created a lot of stress and misery to the both of us. Today...Well, I just didn't care much. I went back to taking it as it came, working from the gut, and going on instict and my little bit of knowledge. Guess what? Good day!
So dear everyone-including myself-,StFU. Keep your lists and schedules to yourselves. There is no science. Everyone is different.
So dear everyone-including myself-,StFU. Keep your lists and schedules to yourselves. There is no science. Everyone is different.
The twitter effect is a strange thing. You'll just pick up random followers. Some are spammers or virus-check out my crazy profile @get.a.virus.com. Other's just seem to join by keyword. I mention how much I hate to grill and GrillMaster starts following. A mention of SciFi -or is it SyFi?- and I get SciFiFan2001.
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