Watch TV? The crawls and 'bugs' (logo in corner) are creeping into more and more of a program. The animations are getting larger, too. You're really into a drama, and now Mike and Molly come dancing in at 1/5 size along with text to tout their show. It's visual pollution! It seems to be on the increase too, in size, duration, and frequency.
On the internet, yes, sometimes you have to pay a penalty and are forced to watch a commercial before what you tried to see. But I just endured one where the commercial was seemingly as long as the feature I was after! On TV I believe you are forced to watch 8 minutes of commercials per 30 minute show. Most radio stations run between 14 to 16 minutes of commercials an hour.
We use TiVo. Record most everything, and speed through the commercials. Want to get rich? Invent the same for web-based ads! And to be fair: I will stop and watch a commercial more than once if I really like it.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
POLITICS
What's the latest approval rating down to? And isn't that very question a statement in itself? I think it was 17% for Congress. Uh, no, Gallup says I'm wrong:
"Congressional job approval is now 15%, up slightly from the record-tying low of 13% recorded in August, while disapproval is 82%, compared with 84% last month."
Obama was at 43%.
What I can't figure is how members of congress must not think it applies to THEM; they point at the other side and hurl invective at them. Hey, it's ALL OF YOU. You aren't getting the job done.
I say start over. Throw everyone out. Set term limits. Ban lobbyists altogether. I guess that a complete clean sweep would allow some boobs in, for sure, but the bonds with special interests would (hopefully) be broken, the influence-peddlers having to also start over, and in the time that took, maybe common sense from non-professional politicians would cause more good than bad. More action than inaction. More consensus than partisanship.
You all are embarrassing.
And for those candidates that stand there in debates and lie, who make things up, I'd like to have them all wired to a truth meter and cattle prod. Each mis-truth gets a shot. Each successive mis-truth gets more voltage. This idea isn't an electric chair type thing - the amperage would be low. Maybe after ONE outing, truth would prevail.
"Congressional job approval is now 15%, up slightly from the record-tying low of 13% recorded in August, while disapproval is 82%, compared with 84% last month."
Obama was at 43%.
What I can't figure is how members of congress must not think it applies to THEM; they point at the other side and hurl invective at them. Hey, it's ALL OF YOU. You aren't getting the job done.
I say start over. Throw everyone out. Set term limits. Ban lobbyists altogether. I guess that a complete clean sweep would allow some boobs in, for sure, but the bonds with special interests would (hopefully) be broken, the influence-peddlers having to also start over, and in the time that took, maybe common sense from non-professional politicians would cause more good than bad. More action than inaction. More consensus than partisanship.
You all are embarrassing.
And for those candidates that stand there in debates and lie, who make things up, I'd like to have them all wired to a truth meter and cattle prod. Each mis-truth gets a shot. Each successive mis-truth gets more voltage. This idea isn't an electric chair type thing - the amperage would be low. Maybe after ONE outing, truth would prevail.
Friday, September 09, 2011
ADVERTISING...
To get ready for a voiceover session I printed out the script a day early. I could rehearse and be well prepared.
Unfortunately the fan was on high because we are in the worst heat and drought, and it blew the script onto the floor.
The dog decided, "If it's paper and on the floor, I can take a dump on it." So she did.
By the time I discovered the smell and the target, it was starting to dry. I tried to scrape it off, was only semi-successful, but the inkjet ink isn't permanent so some words were blurry or obscured.
The printer stopped working, because when it is out of ONE ink color, it stops altogether to force you to the store to buy more.
I can't read off the screen because the microphone is in another room, and I lost the email and there isn't time to find it.
The producer calls and we begin.
In mid-spot I stumble over words I can't really see, and mumble something about "this crap." The producer hears this and launches in on me as being a spoiled, overpaid, prima-donna who is lucky to get ANY work, let alone this spot, and how dare I attack what has been put together by some of the finest minds in advertising?
Then I wake up.
Unfortunately the fan was on high because we are in the worst heat and drought, and it blew the script onto the floor.
The dog decided, "If it's paper and on the floor, I can take a dump on it." So she did.
By the time I discovered the smell and the target, it was starting to dry. I tried to scrape it off, was only semi-successful, but the inkjet ink isn't permanent so some words were blurry or obscured.
The printer stopped working, because when it is out of ONE ink color, it stops altogether to force you to the store to buy more.
I can't read off the screen because the microphone is in another room, and I lost the email and there isn't time to find it.
The producer calls and we begin.
In mid-spot I stumble over words I can't really see, and mumble something about "this crap." The producer hears this and launches in on me as being a spoiled, overpaid, prima-donna who is lucky to get ANY work, let alone this spot, and how dare I attack what has been put together by some of the finest minds in advertising?
Then I wake up.
Saturday, September 03, 2011
DEAR DIARY
That's what blogs are - today's diaries. I wonder if kids still keep them locked from their parents or open online for all to see.
I must admit, I understand, but don't 'get' twitter. I guess my social needs aren't on a par with those who tweet everything they do or think. And there are some adults who treat Facebook the same way... one guy I know posts "Good Night All" regularly. Way too nothing, there, though he's a nice guy in real life.
I stare at the top line in Facebook and think I should say/write something, but rarely does it meet my "Who'd give a darn?" filter. But then I am not the type of guy who enjoys multitasking. I tend to go straight to the goal. Watching TV? I watch. I don't want to converse by any means with the world online at the same time. If online I don't wish distraction via radio. Don't get me started on today's radio!
I am addicted to my IPad, and find many ways to entertain myself on it, but linearly, i.e.: one thing at a time, thank you. Skype on IPad works well and I enjoy it with or without the video! After a while staring at myself staring at them, though, I become self-conscious.
Imagine the instant communication taps which will change the way today's youth will interact with each other and the world as they grow! Will it DEpersonalize or Amplify a sense of belonging? Will it make those on the fringe feel special or left out? Remember the High Tech /High Touch theory? Are we now at the intersection of both? Or is high touch - human real time, real life interaction even more important?
Seems to me that one thing all this connectedness has brought on is an ease of hostility and polarity. Note the political parties playing the media with rancor and drum beats. Either there's a lot less civility and cooperation or the partisanship was always there but invisible.
I must admit, I understand, but don't 'get' twitter. I guess my social needs aren't on a par with those who tweet everything they do or think. And there are some adults who treat Facebook the same way... one guy I know posts "Good Night All" regularly. Way too nothing, there, though he's a nice guy in real life.
I stare at the top line in Facebook and think I should say/write something, but rarely does it meet my "Who'd give a darn?" filter. But then I am not the type of guy who enjoys multitasking. I tend to go straight to the goal. Watching TV? I watch. I don't want to converse by any means with the world online at the same time. If online I don't wish distraction via radio. Don't get me started on today's radio!
I am addicted to my IPad, and find many ways to entertain myself on it, but linearly, i.e.: one thing at a time, thank you. Skype on IPad works well and I enjoy it with or without the video! After a while staring at myself staring at them, though, I become self-conscious.
Imagine the instant communication taps which will change the way today's youth will interact with each other and the world as they grow! Will it DEpersonalize or Amplify a sense of belonging? Will it make those on the fringe feel special or left out? Remember the High Tech /High Touch theory? Are we now at the intersection of both? Or is high touch - human real time, real life interaction even more important?
Seems to me that one thing all this connectedness has brought on is an ease of hostility and polarity. Note the political parties playing the media with rancor and drum beats. Either there's a lot less civility and cooperation or the partisanship was always there but invisible.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
FACEBOOK ISN'T TWITTER
...and a blog isn't FACEBOOK. I have less to write that I used to - mellow due to the unusual heat here? We are over 5 TIMES normal for the number of 100+ degree days this spring and summer.
Some people I follow post things on FB like, "Good Night!" Uh.
I put a new profile picture up on FB and got several nice comments from some friends I miss, but don't have a lot of back-and-forth with. That felt good. Thank you. The picture was taken for a voicework site, as I formerly had a golden microphone instead of my bald head, and I figured if they'd like the voice, they'd idealize the face to their own preference. But I was talked out of that, as "it's a people business." I'll put it here too.
Some people I follow post things on FB like, "Good Night!" Uh.
I put a new profile picture up on FB and got several nice comments from some friends I miss, but don't have a lot of back-and-forth with. That felt good. Thank you. The picture was taken for a voicework site, as I formerly had a golden microphone instead of my bald head, and I figured if they'd like the voice, they'd idealize the face to their own preference. But I was talked out of that, as "it's a people business." I'll put it here too.
Friday, July 22, 2011
WAITING
I am waiting for a script revision so that I can record it. My client DID say "in the morning" but his morning and mine may be different. I am grateful for the work, whenever it comes.
Recently I found out that one of the games I have done a character for has 20,000,000 players (online, not all at once.) I get a real kick out of doing these things which have some kind of wide play. You never know WHO will hear you.
While thinking about business, I think it's almost time to redo my demos (strings of short samples of different approaches to similar work.) Why redo them? Maybe it's the belief that new stuff is always better. The urge to tinker. Freshen. Show-off.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
ROADRUNNER OR ROADKILL?
The story takes place with a 'live chat.'
User Bob_ has entered room
Analyst has entered room
Analyst Mattew has entered room
Analyst has left room
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:12:54 CDT 2011)>
Hello! Thank you for choosing Road Runner Internet Technical Chat Support. My name is Mattew, how may I assist you?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:13:18 CDT 2011)>
Hello. My friend in Tennessee has tried numerous times to send me emails and they never make it nor do they bounce back to him.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:13:34 CDT 2011)>
Could it be the isp is blocked? dtccom.net
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:13:56 CDT 2011)>
Can you be more specific with the issue?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:14:03 CDT 2011)>
I don't receive emails he sends me.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:14:23 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:14:30 CDT 2011)>
I can help you with that.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:15:17 CDT 2011)>
Are you using Web mail or Email client(outlook)
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:15:35 CDT 2011)>
I use Windows Live Mail.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:15:53 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:16:32 CDT 2011)>
Are you able to send a mail?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:16:40 CDT 2011)>
Yes. He gets mine.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:16:59 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:17:00 CDT 2011)>
This is only from this fellow.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:17:25 CDT 2011)>
And it seems rather recent, as in several days to a week now.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:17:31 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:18:23 CDT 2011)>
Please send a test mail to your self and check it once.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:15 CDT 2011)>
Works fine. This is only from that one person.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:19:34 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:46 CDT 2011)>
I get many emails all day - but his have stopped when he uses dtccom.net
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:57 CDT 2011)>
When he uses webmail I get them.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:20:44 CDT 2011)>
Can you please login to the webmail.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:21:01 CDT 2011)>
I don't know how and don't really want to, either.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:21:47 CDT 2011)>
It may be blocked in your junk mails in your web mail.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:22:46 CDT 2011)>
You aren't quite following me. I use Windows Live Mail. When HE sends emails to me, I haven't been receiving them UNLESS he uses webmail as his source. When he doesn't, I don't receive them (but I used to.)
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:23:11 CDT 2011)>
They are not in Junk mail. I receive emails on three devices, so it's not 'my computer.'
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:23:50 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:24:01 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:24:13 CDT 2011)>
I keep emailing him (which he receives) saying I don't see your answers to my questions - he responds that he's repeatedly sent them.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:26:59 CDT 2011)>
Please mark the "leave a copy on the server".
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:27:20 CDT 2011)>
Let me know the results once you have done with that.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:27:28 CDT 2011)>
And WHERE would I do that?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:28:10 CDT 2011)>
I will help you with that.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:28:25 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:32:46 CDT 2011)>
Please give me some more time to resolve this issue.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:32:56 CDT 2011)>
isps sometimes block other isps. Can you check if his is blocked and if so can you unblock for me?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:36:50 CDT 2011)>
Please open accounts tab-> Properties-> Advanced tab.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:37:17 CDT 2011)>
You can find the "leave a copy on the server".
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:38:19 CDT 2011)>
It IS AND HAS BEEN SET THAT WAY
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:38:39 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:41:24 CDT 2011)>
Let me know whether you can receive the mails from the person in webmail?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:41:31 CDT 2011)>
yes
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:42:40 CDT 2011)>
He has two computers. His BUSINESS computer is the one from which emails have stopped coming TO ME. As far as I kinow, only to me. His laptop uses webmail and I get them, just like always.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:43:43 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:44:33 CDT 2011)>
He does not receive 'undeliverable' notifications.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:45:32 CDT 2011)>
... which leads me to wonder if TW has blocked his ISP?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:46:55 CDT 2011)>
Can I access your computer remotely?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:47:05 CDT 2011)>
Why?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:47:16 CDT 2011)>
To do what?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:09 CDT 2011)>
So that I can check were the problem is?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:48:07 CDT 2011)>
It isn't my computer. It's my Blackberry and my IPad also... all of which used to get his messages.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:48:24 CDT 2011)>
I am uncomfortable allowing you access.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:42 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:49 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:56:01 CDT 2011)> (Almost 8 minutes later)
Thank you for your patience.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:56:53 CDT 2011)>
TWC does not block any isp.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:58:38 CDT 2011)>
How ever there would be a problem in the settings of your friends please ask him to delete his junk mails.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:58:56 CDT 2011)>
I will. What else?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:59:51 CDT 2011)>
That's it. it works if you delete the junk mail blocks.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:00:25 CDT 2011)>
Is there anything else I can help you with?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 15:00:40 CDT 2011)>
No. Thank you.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:01:26 CDT 2011)>
My pleasure chatting with you.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 15:01:30 CDT 2011)>
So you are saying HIS junk mail settings blocks HIM sending ME an email? (The answer was Yes.)
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:01:35 CDT 2011)>
For more information about the products and services offered by Road Runner, you can visit this link anytime to get more help and knowledge : http://help.rr.com and check for online tutorials, FAQs and more details about Road Runner features.
And our story ends with no resolution. Have a nice day!
User Bob_ has entered room
Analyst has entered room
Analyst Mattew has entered room
Analyst has left room
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:12:54 CDT 2011)>
Hello! Thank you for choosing Road Runner Internet Technical Chat Support. My name is Mattew, how may I assist you?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:13:18 CDT 2011)>
Hello. My friend in Tennessee has tried numerous times to send me emails and they never make it nor do they bounce back to him.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:13:34 CDT 2011)>
Could it be the isp is blocked? dtccom.net
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:13:56 CDT 2011)>
Can you be more specific with the issue?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:14:03 CDT 2011)>
I don't receive emails he sends me.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:14:23 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:14:30 CDT 2011)>
I can help you with that.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:15:17 CDT 2011)>
Are you using Web mail or Email client(outlook)
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:15:35 CDT 2011)>
I use Windows Live Mail.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:15:53 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:16:32 CDT 2011)>
Are you able to send a mail?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:16:40 CDT 2011)>
Yes. He gets mine.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:16:59 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:17:00 CDT 2011)>
This is only from this fellow.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:17:25 CDT 2011)>
And it seems rather recent, as in several days to a week now.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:17:31 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:18:23 CDT 2011)>
Please send a test mail to your self and check it once.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:15 CDT 2011)>
Works fine. This is only from that one person.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:19:34 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:46 CDT 2011)>
I get many emails all day - but his have stopped when he uses dtccom.net
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:19:57 CDT 2011)>
When he uses webmail I get them.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:20:44 CDT 2011)>
Can you please login to the webmail.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:21:01 CDT 2011)>
I don't know how and don't really want to, either.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:21:47 CDT 2011)>
It may be blocked in your junk mails in your web mail.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:22:46 CDT 2011)>
You aren't quite following me. I use Windows Live Mail. When HE sends emails to me, I haven't been receiving them UNLESS he uses webmail as his source. When he doesn't, I don't receive them (but I used to.)
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:23:11 CDT 2011)>
They are not in Junk mail. I receive emails on three devices, so it's not 'my computer.'
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:23:50 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:24:01 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:24:13 CDT 2011)>
I keep emailing him (which he receives) saying I don't see your answers to my questions - he responds that he's repeatedly sent them.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:26:59 CDT 2011)>
Please mark the "leave a copy on the server".
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:27:20 CDT 2011)>
Let me know the results once you have done with that.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:27:28 CDT 2011)>
And WHERE would I do that?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:28:10 CDT 2011)>
I will help you with that.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:28:25 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:32:46 CDT 2011)>
Please give me some more time to resolve this issue.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:32:56 CDT 2011)>
isps sometimes block other isps. Can you check if his is blocked and if so can you unblock for me?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:36:50 CDT 2011)>
Please open accounts tab-> Properties-> Advanced tab.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:37:17 CDT 2011)>
You can find the "leave a copy on the server".
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:38:19 CDT 2011)>
It IS AND HAS BEEN SET THAT WAY
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:38:39 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:41:24 CDT 2011)>
Let me know whether you can receive the mails from the person in webmail?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:41:31 CDT 2011)>
yes
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:42:40 CDT 2011)>
He has two computers. His BUSINESS computer is the one from which emails have stopped coming TO ME. As far as I kinow, only to me. His laptop uses webmail and I get them, just like always.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:43:43 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:44:33 CDT 2011)>
He does not receive 'undeliverable' notifications.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:45:32 CDT 2011)>
... which leads me to wonder if TW has blocked his ISP?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:46:55 CDT 2011)>
Can I access your computer remotely?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:47:05 CDT 2011)>
Why?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:47:16 CDT 2011)>
To do what?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:09 CDT 2011)>
So that I can check were the problem is?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:48:07 CDT 2011)>
It isn't my computer. It's my Blackberry and my IPad also... all of which used to get his messages.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:48:24 CDT 2011)>
I am uncomfortable allowing you access.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:42 CDT 2011)>
Okay.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:48:49 CDT 2011)>
Please give me a moment.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:56:01 CDT 2011)> (Almost 8 minutes later)
Thank you for your patience.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:56:53 CDT 2011)>
TWC does not block any isp.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:58:38 CDT 2011)>
How ever there would be a problem in the settings of your friends please ask him to delete his junk mails.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 14:58:56 CDT 2011)>
I will. What else?
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 15:59:51 CDT 2011)>
That's it. it works if you delete the junk mail blocks.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:00:25 CDT 2011)>
Is there anything else I can help you with?
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 15:00:40 CDT 2011)>
No. Thank you.
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:01:26 CDT 2011)>
My pleasure chatting with you.
Bob_(Wed Jul 13 15:01:30 CDT 2011)>
So you are saying HIS junk mail settings blocks HIM sending ME an email? (The answer was Yes.)
Mattew(Wed Jul 13 16:01:35 CDT 2011)>
For more information about the products and services offered by Road Runner, you can visit this link anytime to get more help and knowledge : http://help.rr.com and check for online tutorials, FAQs and more details about Road Runner features.
And our story ends with no resolution. Have a nice day!
Thursday, July 07, 2011
HYPE FEVER
I may have contracted HYPE FEVER while doing voicework demos. This is a condition whereby the voice rises and you shout things like "BUT WAIT!" And swallow then regurgitate words like AMAZING, CALL NOW, LIMITED TIME OFFER and you gurgle up exclamation points like a babe on strained peas.
I am unsure what the cure is. Deep breathing, maybe. I'll try that. Pray for me.
I am unsure what the cure is. Deep breathing, maybe. I'll try that. Pray for me.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
THERE'S A KIND OF A HUSH ALL OVER THE WORLD
Actually, it's me. I get a big kick out of the nature of voicework. If I am right about the timing of the schedule, my voice is now on some stations in Houston, Austin, Jacksonville, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Salt Lake City, Atlanta, Columbus, Portland, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Denver, and on Satellite radio. More! I want more!
IPAD AND ME
Or maybe it should read IPAD 2 and Me Too.
After months of backorder, it arrived, this sleek little screen and not much else. True to Apple's form and function, setting it up was a little Disney-magical. Somehow it all comes together, though I didn't see Tinkerbell in the box.
The included instructions are three sentences. More on line if you need it.
CLEVER CLEVER CLEVER. They've been around long enough that you either have one, have seen one, or are waiting for one.
Here's Apple's store at 2PM on a Sunday, and this doesn't show enough of the store which was packed - PACKED! Clearly, they know what they are doing.
And now I find myself an Angry Birds semi-addict, loving the "heh heh heh... nice" undercurrent audio while I try to figure out where to shoot the birds. Kudos to the developers.
I have also loaded apps like the free audio analysis app for which I once paid about $800 to get such functionality in an IPAQ (remember those?)
Somehow Skype works, even though it's not really an IPad version. THAT is said to be coming. The sessions I've had came with remarks about the great audio quality. I'd have to agree from THIS side of the conversation. Apple worked it out.
I'm almost at the video recording and editing stage. I say almost because my mind is running with how do I want this to look... what neat things can I do. Maybe I am too lazy or busy to mount a full-scale production, but with this gadget, you CAN.
After months of backorder, it arrived, this sleek little screen and not much else. True to Apple's form and function, setting it up was a little Disney-magical. Somehow it all comes together, though I didn't see Tinkerbell in the box.
The included instructions are three sentences. More on line if you need it.
CLEVER CLEVER CLEVER. They've been around long enough that you either have one, have seen one, or are waiting for one.
Here's Apple's store at 2PM on a Sunday, and this doesn't show enough of the store which was packed - PACKED! Clearly, they know what they are doing.
And now I find myself an Angry Birds semi-addict, loving the "heh heh heh... nice" undercurrent audio while I try to figure out where to shoot the birds. Kudos to the developers.
I have also loaded apps like the free audio analysis app for which I once paid about $800 to get such functionality in an IPAQ (remember those?)
Somehow Skype works, even though it's not really an IPad version. THAT is said to be coming. The sessions I've had came with remarks about the great audio quality. I'd have to agree from THIS side of the conversation. Apple worked it out.
I'm almost at the video recording and editing stage. I say almost because my mind is running with how do I want this to look... what neat things can I do. Maybe I am too lazy or busy to mount a full-scale production, but with this gadget, you CAN.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
THE ATOMIC GNAT
There is an atomic gnat in our TV room. Or several. It's hard to tell. Physicists have determined that certain very very small particles may be able to be in two locations at once. And these gnats are very very small. So when that speck is walking across my glasses, it might also be buzzing the couch. I'm not sure.
Perhaps they arrived in the late winter when we had the deck door wide open - after all, there were no bugs we could see, and it was unseasonably warm. Or maybe they camped out in a new plant which now sits beside the tv. Or rode bareback in on the dog. Actually, the atomic gnat is small enough to pass through a screen.
And so I have begun the ritual of ridding ourselves of this pesky insect which is apparently attracted to my nostril like Bubba to a strip bar on a Friday after work.
I went to LOWES and bought the meanest, and apparently most toxic, pest strip known to man. The instructions say it kills flying things. They say don't be in the room with this horrible chemical for more than 4 hours. Disposal calls for a hazmat team. After more than a week, no gnat deaths have been recorded, though our own lifetimes may have been shortened.
I then resorted to the tried and true... the glue-y thing which hangs as a beacon of stickiness from the pull chain on the ceiling fan. 50s diners and truckstops of that era would sport these traps like stalactites, usually peppered with flies. But for me, no luck. I have avoided walking into it.
I read on the web how to build a trap... using cider vinegar and a soda bottle. But so far, it hasn't worked.
The atomic gnat is winning the war. I am pretty sure it's too small to be a predator drone and don't think I am being surveiled.
Prayer hasn't worked.
Bad tv hasn't worked.
I am unsure of my next move. For now, I am a swat team of one.
Perhaps they arrived in the late winter when we had the deck door wide open - after all, there were no bugs we could see, and it was unseasonably warm. Or maybe they camped out in a new plant which now sits beside the tv. Or rode bareback in on the dog. Actually, the atomic gnat is small enough to pass through a screen.
And so I have begun the ritual of ridding ourselves of this pesky insect which is apparently attracted to my nostril like Bubba to a strip bar on a Friday after work.
I went to LOWES and bought the meanest, and apparently most toxic, pest strip known to man. The instructions say it kills flying things. They say don't be in the room with this horrible chemical for more than 4 hours. Disposal calls for a hazmat team. After more than a week, no gnat deaths have been recorded, though our own lifetimes may have been shortened.
I then resorted to the tried and true... the glue-y thing which hangs as a beacon of stickiness from the pull chain on the ceiling fan. 50s diners and truckstops of that era would sport these traps like stalactites, usually peppered with flies. But for me, no luck. I have avoided walking into it.
I read on the web how to build a trap... using cider vinegar and a soda bottle. But so far, it hasn't worked.
The atomic gnat is winning the war. I am pretty sure it's too small to be a predator drone and don't think I am being surveiled.
Prayer hasn't worked.
Bad tv hasn't worked.
I am unsure of my next move. For now, I am a swat team of one.
Friday, May 27, 2011
A BETTER MOUSETRAP?
It has happened twice now.
After washing some windows, I left the bucket with some solution in it in the garage for the next round.
It's a big bucket and it had maybe four inches of soapy water in it.
Both times I later found a dead mouse floating in what had become a very stinky soup.
Mickey and Minnie's last bath is a sad memory.
After washing some windows, I left the bucket with some solution in it in the garage for the next round.
It's a big bucket and it had maybe four inches of soapy water in it.
Both times I later found a dead mouse floating in what had become a very stinky soup.
Mickey and Minnie's last bath is a sad memory.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
THE VOICE OF...
Over the past little while my voiceover business has brought a real wide variety of jobs:
narrating the celebration of a man's life; and intros and outros for a weekly church podcast. I played a proud, tall, Norse BEAR in a videogame, voiced a local pharmacy advocacy project, a tire safety piece for the Texas DOT, a narration about lessons learned from the Deepwater Horizon disaster, and a pitch for a security company trying to sell its system in Argentina. Small world.
I love doing voice work.
narrating the celebration of a man's life; and intros and outros for a weekly church podcast. I played a proud, tall, Norse BEAR in a videogame, voiced a local pharmacy advocacy project, a tire safety piece for the Texas DOT, a narration about lessons learned from the Deepwater Horizon disaster, and a pitch for a security company trying to sell its system in Argentina. Small world.
I love doing voice work.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
THE CARPET CLEANER
Is overdue but we'll cut slack for it's only 7 minutes. So far.
We didn't realize it, but our carpeted areas have self-dirtifying carpet of a light color which shows off that feature really, really well. The carpet stretcher man said the only recourse to clean carpets is clean white socks. But I won't go shoeless full time. I am not turning Japanese.
The guys come in with a water heater and Tim-Allen modified sucker in a truck. They spray hot water with special sauce into the rug then wait a few seconds and suck it back out. This is a lot like a salary and taxes.
I think the world that created the Zamboni can do a better job. There should be whirling brushes, though come to think of it, I have never seen a street sweeper work well, even with its wire brushes spinning.
But we need more than squirt and suck.
By the time all dries completely, they are gone, and at that time you get to see how those special places will remain shrines to where the doggie rubbed the medicine we put into the her ear, or the spilled tea episode.
Oh - and the upsell is "Want Scotchguard with that?" No. We have posted a no-bagpipe warning at the door!
We didn't realize it, but our carpeted areas have self-dirtifying carpet of a light color which shows off that feature really, really well. The carpet stretcher man said the only recourse to clean carpets is clean white socks. But I won't go shoeless full time. I am not turning Japanese.
The guys come in with a water heater and Tim-Allen modified sucker in a truck. They spray hot water with special sauce into the rug then wait a few seconds and suck it back out. This is a lot like a salary and taxes.
I think the world that created the Zamboni can do a better job. There should be whirling brushes, though come to think of it, I have never seen a street sweeper work well, even with its wire brushes spinning.
But we need more than squirt and suck.
By the time all dries completely, they are gone, and at that time you get to see how those special places will remain shrines to where the doggie rubbed the medicine we put into the her ear, or the spilled tea episode.
Oh - and the upsell is "Want Scotchguard with that?" No. We have posted a no-bagpipe warning at the door!
BY NOW
I had hoped to have my new IPad 2 and even IPhone 5, though that one was more a silent prayer while using my hated Blackberry.
The IPad 2 is supposed to arrive at the reseller this Friday. They said that about last Friday too.
The IPhone 5 is delayed, says Apple pundits.
Meanwhile I must have mellowed some, as I am not so frantic to get the new toys as I might have been once upon a time. Hard to believe, but the Patience Institute has lowered my world ranking to 1,225,068.
The IPad 2 is supposed to arrive at the reseller this Friday. They said that about last Friday too.
The IPhone 5 is delayed, says Apple pundits.
Meanwhile I must have mellowed some, as I am not so frantic to get the new toys as I might have been once upon a time. Hard to believe, but the Patience Institute has lowered my world ranking to 1,225,068.
Friday, April 15, 2011
THAT MICROPHONE IS LIVE
The 'rule' is - if you are in the public perception, and are in a room with a microphone, assume it is LIVE.
Obama just broke the rule. He said some things which were a little more human than what you'd term Presidential. The message wasn't managed. Other presidents have also been caught.
I know of some guys who were fired for speaking on what they thought was a 'secure' line to a tech at their radio station. Too bad they were on the air over the music on one of the sister stations. Profane and detailed, too.
Obama just broke the rule. He said some things which were a little more human than what you'd term Presidential. The message wasn't managed. Other presidents have also been caught.
I know of some guys who were fired for speaking on what they thought was a 'secure' line to a tech at their radio station. Too bad they were on the air over the music on one of the sister stations. Profane and detailed, too.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A BITE OF THE APPLE
I am once again BLOWN away by APPLE. Specifically, the Apple Store, which today was crowded. I've ordered an IPAD 2 from another seller (soon to arrive) and thought I'd go the the company store for a cover and adapter. I was greeted and handed off to an associate who took me to their accessories and took what I needed from the display, then whipped out a device (maybe an Iphone with attachment? - It wasn't much bigger than that but it had a slot for card swiping, which he did. He then sent me the receipt by email and I was on my way, amazed at the ease of the transaction.
I then went up the road to another retailer of electronics - the one with 80+ check outs, lines, etc. where I paged through an IPAD for Beginners magazine... holy smoke, this device really IS a game changer in so many ways. I am excited.
I then went up the road to another retailer of electronics - the one with 80+ check outs, lines, etc. where I paged through an IPAD for Beginners magazine... holy smoke, this device really IS a game changer in so many ways. I am excited.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
MORE ADVENTURES IN THE COMPUTER
Recall the Andy Griffith Show/ Mayberry jingle..."
Why is it this always seems to happen? You have to fix something or update something on your computer. You haunt the blogs and forums and find what seems to be good advice, It goes like this for me - you too?
Open Desktop.
Desktop, right. Got it. Easy.
Do to Control Panel
Got it. I am humming!
Open Accessories.
Yeah. No - wait. Is that here? I know where it was on my old computer.
Okay, maybe here. Yes. Of course. No wait, it's under programs, isn't it?
Then simply snarl the berg.dll
The WHAT? WHAT? How do you SNARL? That's NOT THERE. THERE'S NO CHOICE.
By this time I am lost. I am lost a lot.
Recall the Gilligan's Island theme now.
Why is it this always seems to happen? You have to fix something or update something on your computer. You haunt the blogs and forums and find what seems to be good advice, It goes like this for me - you too?
Open Desktop.
Desktop, right. Got it. Easy.
Do to Control Panel
Got it. I am humming!
Open Accessories.
Yeah. No - wait. Is that here? I know where it was on my old computer.
Okay, maybe here. Yes. Of course. No wait, it's under programs, isn't it?
Then simply snarl the berg.dll
The WHAT? WHAT? How do you SNARL? That's NOT THERE. THERE'S NO CHOICE.
By this time I am lost. I am lost a lot.
Recall the Gilligan's Island theme now.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
PLEASANT VALLEY SUNDAY
I went to the plant department of Lowes today. What we need is a colorful plant for the shade. Oh sure, they can make a turtle bark and glow in the dark via DNA, so why not a shade flower?
People were swarming like flies.
There was a dead big fat porcupine on the road.
---
Yesterday we had lunch at the Four Seasons for Terri's Birthday. It was the busiest we've seen. A good sign for the economy? Then we walked the Art Fair. Some great stuff, especially one piece which just cost too much. It was what appeared to be - and wasn't -a poster for KILLER BLONDE in comic book headline-styled fireworks package. Bang!
People were swarming like flies.
There was a dead big fat porcupine on the road.
---
Yesterday we had lunch at the Four Seasons for Terri's Birthday. It was the busiest we've seen. A good sign for the economy? Then we walked the Art Fair. Some great stuff, especially one piece which just cost too much. It was what appeared to be - and wasn't -a poster for KILLER BLONDE in comic book headline-styled fireworks package. Bang!
Monday, March 28, 2011
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