Wednesday, October 29th, 2008
As you may have noticed, the last post I wrote about the 2008 BMW X5 was kind of vague. Also, I included photos of a car that was in the showroom. What I would like to introduce tonight is the car I actually bought.
It took a few days for the dealer to get their hands on what I wanted. They had to ship it down from Massachusetts. The biggest issue was that I didn’t want leather. BMW offers an interior in leatherette, so that’s what I asked for. As you might guess, they make fewer cars with leatherette than with leather.
It only took the sales guy a few hours to find a vehicle for me. The problem was getting it to Hartford. There was a weekend in between, so it took a few days.
The car they found was a 2008 BMW X5, V6, space gray metallic with black leatherette interior. The car came with the cold weather package (retractable headlight washers, ski bag, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, heated front seats), rear climate package (privacy glass, rear manual side window shades, 4-zone automatic climate control), running boards and dark bamboo trim. I also requested that the car have floor mats, a towing package and the roof rack base support system. There was a whole bunch of other stuff to choose from, but none of it really interested me. This car is one huge computer that is going to take a while to learn as it is.
Ok, who cares about all that stuff. Here are the pictures.
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Tuesday, September 30th, 2008
It has been a busy day. I have been working at the computer for hours, but found time to squeeze in a trip to the transfer station (next post) and time to mow the lawn. I wasn’t planning on mowing the lawn, I kind of just found myself sitting on the lawnmower riding around.
I found a great new way to make working at the computer a little better. I now listen to Sirius through the computer. Since we have a subscription for Sirius in one of the cars, we get online listening included.
I like listening to the 80s channel -”Classic Rewind, ‘70S & ‘80S Classic Rock.” I also like drinking beer when I work. It makes things just a bit better. I have to admit, there is something to be said for listening to 80s music. It never disappoints. What’s even nicer, is when I talk to someone of my generation about 80s music, we both appreciate what we are talking about. The beer doesn’t help me write blog posts though.
80s music seems to be a little deeper than the music of today. It isn’t necessarily deeper in a thoughtful way, it just seems that the artists of yester-year weren’t in it for the money as much as artists are today. It seems like they were more into their music because it was a way of life for them. Just my opinion, of course.
Seriously, find me one song that comes close to “Mr. Roboto” by the band, “Styx.” If you are wondering what I am talking about, just say the following very quielty to yourself…”Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto.”
I remember sitting on the school bus in 3rd grade listening to “Eye of the Tiger” by “Survivor.” Now, that’s a classic. Mr. Roboto and Eye of the Tiger are two of my more memorable songs of the 80s, followed closely by “You Might Think” by “The Cars.” I remember watching The Cars on Friday Night Videos with my brother. One time, we tried to stay up all night. It didn’t work. We thought that Friday Night Videos would help pass the time, but I was asleep less than a half-hour after the end of the show.
Ok, that’s it. Good bye.
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Saturday, September 20th, 2008
One of my favorite computer tools is Microsoft Outlook. I use the Contacts, Tasks and the Calendar quite a bit. I don’t use it for email though. Weird.
I have many tasks on my list, but there is one I put on there recently that is big and bold. “FIND BUSINESS PARTNER.”
It’s this year’s task. I have a big project in mind that can turn into something really huge. It’s all sorts of custom and need a whole lot of manpower. I am not talking about doing a little project here, I am talking about real money and real employees doing real stuff.
What the heck am I really talking about? Well, without giving anything away, I am looking for that special someone to partner with for the next best start-up. I have all the notes taken and all the business areas pretty much nailed down. All I need is someone who is smarter than me, who is in the industry and who has a zillion contacts. Oh yeah, you also need a lot of money. I will be forming a new corporation just for this project. I have already discussed the whole thing with the attorneys and accountants and everything looks good. I have the domain name and servers with the switch ready to be flicked. I have my share of financing, so all I need now is a really good team to get it done.
So, who am I looking for? Number one, I have to trust you. Also, again, you need to be better than me at this stuff. You need to bring a whole lot to the table that I don’t have, because if you can’t, I can just get this done myself. You also must have debt and responsibilities. A family would be good. Why? Because if you don’t, you might not take things as seriously as I will. I need you to be hungry and up for working 18 hours a day. You really need to be checking your email at 11PM and be extremely driven. If you are watching TV and eating ice cream, we probably shouldn’t talk.
I have a few firms in mind that I am going to approach this week. They are already in the market and might be looking to branch out into something new. I suppose I will see where that takes me.
Ahhh, business.
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Monday, September 15th, 2008
This article was written by Jay Gaulard on behalf of Biddew Online Auction , a popular online auction website.
Online auctions provide a wide variety of products at prices that can’t be beat. Look around at a few online auctions and see for yourself how low the prices are.
Find What You’re Looking For In An Online Auction
If you’re limited on cash but really need a vehicle, what are your options? Scouring the used car lots seems to turn up a lot of overpriced junk. You might find a pretty good deal, but when you take it home and it turns out to be a lemon, you’re stuck with four years worth of car payments for a useless heap. So what is a person to do in this stagnant economy? One of the best ways to find great deals on used cars and more is by perusing online auctions.
Online auctions provide a wide variety of products at prices that can’t be beat. Look around at a few online auctions and see for yourself how low the prices are. Buying a relatively new used car is affordable for anyone, as long as they know how to find the right auction.
Online auctions aren’t limited to automobiles, though. Perusing a few auctions shows you how many products are available. Are you a home recording enthusiast? You can beef up your home studio with microphones, digital audio workstations and top-of-the-line tube preamps for a fraction of the cost. Perhaps you have other hobbies that you want to invest in, but don’t have the money to buy everything new. Whether you’re a model train collector or a dog lover, online auctions have something that you’ll be interested in for a relatively inexpensive price.
Personally, I’m searching for a nice laptop computer so that I can work wherever I go, but I don’t want to pay for a new one. Since discovering the beauty of online auctions, I’ve been able to buy a high-quality computer that works great. It’s only two steps down from the current leader in processing speed, and it has a hard drive large enough to hold all of my business files, my entire music library and even a film or two. It’s great, and I bought it for a quarter of its original price.
Online auctions work similar to live auctions. A minimum price has to be met, and a deadline is set for the auction to end. People bid on the item, outbid each other and the lucky winner gets the prize. If you fail to win the auction, don’t despair. There are often multiple items on the same auction ticket. If not, keep checking the website to see when another auction is posted with the same item.
In general, shipping and handling are pre-arranged and listed with the item. Sometimes, in the case of larger auctions, the item is pick-up only. For example, if you buy a piano in an auction, the shipping and handling would be very expensive, so you typically have to pick it up. Make sure that you understand the terms before you bid. Also, make sure that you know how payment is accepted, whether it’s through an online service, COD or check.
From watch collectors to shoe collectors, online auctions contain something for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget or just like to shop around, online auctions can provide what you desire and save you money at the same time. Keep looking and happy bidding.
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Monday, September 15th, 2008
This article was written by Jay Gaulard on behalf of Iiamin.com, a popular job listings website.
If you’re looking for new employment, the Internet is an easy way to find it. Many employers have started using the Internet to find interested and qualified workers for their business.
Finding Employment Online
In tough financial times, finding employment can be like searching for the North Star on a cloudy night. Few open positions are listed in your local newspaper’s classified ads. While this is partially caused by a lack of new jobs, it is also caused by a shift in advertising mediums. Newspapers are a dying breed, and many companies have turned to newer methods of connecting with potential employees.
If you’re looking for new employment, the Internet is an easy way to find it. Many employers have started using the Internet to find interested and qualified workers for their business. This eliminates the hassle of filling out applications in the office and submitting resumes in person. By searching Internet classified ads, you can find the right job for you and continue your career today.
Many sites exist that offer job listings for every field imaginable. Some sites are pay-per-post, while others are completely free. The advances in online communication over the last decade have made it simple for businesses to connect with potential employees. Just go to your favorite search engine and enter the occupation that you’re looking for and you’re sure to find many matches.
If you’re not sure what type of employment you’re seeking, Internet classifieds offer a wide variety of open positions. Jobs from auto sales to plumbing positions are constantly opening. All you need to do is find the proper listing and strike when the iron is hot. You can start your journey down a new career path with a few clicks. Enter all the pertinent information from the comfort of your home office, instead of applying during office hours. This is especially handy if you are currently employed, but seeking something else. Your boss won’t know you’re looking elsewhere, so you won’t jeopardize your current job while you’re on the prowl for new employment.
Many listings offer home employment. While this sounds like a dream come true to some, be careful when applying to work at home positions. There are a lot of scams, so do some homework to make sure the business you’re applying to is reputable. Freelance writing is a great way to make some cash from home, but envelope stuffing is certainly a fraud. Look for testimonials from satisfied employees, and find examples of other reputable businesses in the same industry.
There are new listings appearing all the time on Internet classified websites. You will benefit from the paradigm shift to a technological society if you have the right skills. If you’re qualified to work on computers, employers are waiting to hear from you. If you specialize in the latest operating systems technology, you’ll have no trouble finding employment online. Keep your skills current and your resume updated, and you’re sure to find a great career opportunity that is perfect for you listed online.
Whether you’re a tech-head or not, online employment listings are a great way to continue your current career path or start a new one. It’s all up to you. Once you figure out what you’re looking for, get your resume ready and start emailing it to your prospective employers. Internet classifieds are the new way for the unemployed or under-employed to connect with great new job opportunities.
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Thursday, September 4th, 2008
Evolution of DNA: Open-source software traces code of life
There’s a new computer program that knows all about your history - but don’t worry, it’s not going to report those parking violations. It cares about the evolution of your DNA. And it’s open source.
How Big Can a Black Hole Grow?
Giant black holes sit at the cores of virtually all galaxies, and are thought to have grown from smaller seed black holes that swallowed lots of matter.
GNU turns 25
Today the GNU project celebrates its quarter-century. It was on 27 September 1983 that MIT slacker Richard M Stallman made his announcement that he intended to create a complete Unix-like system that would be completely open and hackable, giving anyone the right to modify and distribute the work.
Mozilla CEO uncertain about future relationship with Google
The simple fact that Google is now pursuing its own browser could leave Mozilla scratching its head. And quite apparently, Mozilla has not quite figured out how its relationship with Google will work out over the next few years.
7 Really Awesome Things About Google Chrome
After playing with it for a while, it’s too early to say that I’m blown away, but I must admit that I’ve stumbled onto some impressive feats which show that the team that built Chrome was intelligent, mature and forward-thinking. Here they are, in no particular order.
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008
If you remember back a few weeks, I told you that I got a new computer. There were a few hickups, but things are ok now.
When I get a new computer, I like to transfer my software to it, from my old computer. Basically, I just install the software that I have onto the new computer and then delete it from the old one. It usually goes along just fine.
A while back, I installed Quickbooks Pro 2007 on the new computer. The software gave me 30 days to register it. I waited the 30 days (because I kept hitting “remind me later”) and then I registered the software. When I registered it, I was asked for my business phone number and zip code. I remembered when I bought the software, so I plugged in our old phone number and zip code. Then, I said to myself, “I should really update this information, because if I have to do this again, I am never going to remember that old stuff.” The only way I could update the information was to call the company. I did that a few minutes ago.
I got a guy on the phone. He updated the information that I gave him, so they can send me more junk mail. Then, his system produced a new validation code. He gave me the instructions on how to apply the new validation code in the Quickbooks software. Upon doing this, I received an error, saying the validation code was no good. I asked him what to do…the validation code he just gave me was no good. He replied that I could either look online for a solution or sign up for a technical support plan for $75 per year.
I think I may have stuttered for a second because I thought he was joking. He wasn’t. I felt myself getting a little red in the face and explained to him that this was his problem, not mine. I quickly found myself getting nowhere fast with him, so I hung up.
I am not even going to let this get to me. I am going to go about my day with a smile on my face.
Thank you for listening.
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Thursday, August 14th, 2008
All Winter, I say that I can’t wait for Summer. This is for obvious reasons. I always say that I can make it up to January 15 with Winter and then I’m done. If I can’t grow anything, I am not a happy camper.
This next paragraph really has nothing to do with this post. I just thought I would throw it in here.
Laura and I were eating dinner this evening when I noticed Finnegan Gordon Belle (Flipper Human the cat) laying on the chair next to us. Now, just to give a bit of background on this cat…he is grouchy when he sleeps. He really has no time or patience for people who get in the way of his “resting sessions.”
Well, after I finished slowly (repeatedly) placing my food in my mouth, I decided to walk over and pet the cat. I got a few good pets in. I thought this was nice. What did the cat do in return? He looked up at me, shifted his weight, sat up and bit my hand. Nuff said. I walked away and left him alone. Sure, when he wants to get picked up every other minute of the day, I accommodate him, but when I want to play, noooooo.
Here he is, the bum…
Man, you can almost see the attitude.
Ok, back to the post. If you haven’t noticed around the blogging world yet, things are a bit slow this Summer. I guess people are outside, enjoying the weather. I am sure all sorts of families are vacationing at the beach and places like that. Gee, even I got in the car a few times this season. Well, let’s just say all this enjoyment hasn’t really helped my reading habits. Blog reading I mean. Yes, it’s sad but true.
In my opinion, if you want to be one of these crazy bloggers, you have to write all the time. You have to wake up and want to bring the camera with you when you get your morning coffee. It truly is a disgusting way to live, but if you’ve ever written in a format like this, you’ll know what I am talking about.
The thing of it is…we computer people LOVE to read what you write. It doesn’t matter what it is. We just want to keep up with your lives. I should actually be writing this to myself because I have been slipping through the cracks lately. I mean, I have been cutting down some small trees on the side of the property, but I don’t think I can bring the camera every time, nor do I think people want to continuously read about it. I’m not even sure what I can take a picture of. I keep asking Laura if it looks any different than it did earlier and she just gives me a sad look and turns her face back and forth, saying…”no, my sweet prince, it doesn’t.”
I sometimes make the joke to Laura that people don’t need to call me to see how I am doing. All they need to do is read this silly thing. It’s kind of not fair because I do a lot of calling. Trust me, let’s not change this arrangement. I like you reading and I like doing the calling. Oftentimes, I feel more comfortable if things are on my terms.
I guess I get a little depressed when I see the internet get light for a while. I think overall traffic takes a hit during the Summer. I never thought I would see the day when I get excited at the prospect of a rainy day in September…when all the kids are back at school and college is in session. Ooohhh, look at all those users checking out my sites. The Christmas season is a whole other story.
It’s amazing. For all the cool things we do in the Summer, we really don’t feel like writing about many of them. Maybe it’s the sunshine. Maybe it’s the guilt of bringing the laptop out on the deck with us and writing, when we really should be looking at the squirrels. Perhaps that’s why some of the best authors like to go up to their chilly cabins to write and don’t do it on the beaches of Barbados. Really now, Barbados is no place to write. Maybe Vail…
My friends, the good news is there are new blogs being formed every day. Just yesterday, an old friend of mine showed interest in making a blog of his own. I hope he does because the world needs more smart writing. I am actually curious about what he has to say. I am sure there are other great blogs that have been started recently that I never knew about. Oh, it’s going to be fun because the blogging season is right around the corner.
So, for those people who have shown interest recently about blogging and why they should get into it, I will explain what I like about the whole thing. Basically, I think this is a place for people to get to know me. I really like the format and I feel comfortable sharing things here. I really don’t care if some trucker from India reads this thing every morning before he has his breakfast. If he finds me entertaining and gets a kick out of the projects that I do, then that’s cool. You know, I bet there are a few truckers who like to read my blog.
Also, I really like to take pictures. Here, I can post them and tell people all about what I was doing. Of course, if you haven’t noticed, I think the stuff I do is reeeeally important.
The best thing is when I help people. I know I have said this before, but when someone gets some use out of what I write, that makes it all worth while. You can imagine the blisters on my fingers from all this writing. Can you imagine that?
Well, it’s getting a bit late now and I fear that I am not making sense anymore. I just want to warn you that the camera comes back out tomorrow and I am going to be outside with it. I am going to take a picture of something and post it here. You just wait…
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Monday, August 4th, 2008
Now, if you remember the beginning of this saga, I increased the size of the page file to a minimum of 1000MB and a maximum of 6000MB. I did this because I was getting a blue screen after sleep mode in Windows Vista. The more I look, the more popular I am finding this particular occurrence.
I believe I made this change on Friday. Everything went fine on Friday and all Saturday. I thought the problem had been solved. Sunday morning, I woke up and here is what happened:
- Woke computer up
- Typed password
- The computer hung for a few minutes on the welcome screen
- The blue screen appeared
- After about 30 seconds, the computer automatically went to the black Windows Recovery screen
- The computer started normally
I did manage to write down a few things. At the top of the blue screen, I saw the “kernel_data_inpage_error” message. Then, below, I saw the following code - 0×0000007a. I also saw 9ca4d081, 9ca2e000, 0xc04e5268. I am not sure if those last ones mean anything.
On Sunday evening, something different happened:
- Woke computer
- Types password
- The computer hung for a few minutes
- I was presented with a black screen that didn’t go away
- I had to click the button on the front of the computer to restart it
- The computer started normally
It seems that the longer I let the computer sleep, the more this happens. If I wake it up after a short time, everything is fine.
I called Dell Support again and talked with a different tech. I emailed him the Windows minidump file and he analyzed it. I am not sure it showed him anything new. Then, we ran the Windows diagnostic. Everything was fine there…no hardware issues.
We decided to raise the page file to a minimum of 4602 and a maximum of 6144. I am going to run this for a few days and report back to Dell with what I find.
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Saturday, August 2nd, 2008
Just a word of warning, I really don’t know what I am talking about in this post. I gathered some fragments and decided to talk about them.
Ok, since I have been using this new computer, I have had a little issue. When the computer would go into sleep mode, things would be normal. When I would shake the mouse to wake the computer up, sometimes it would hang. After a while, I would get the blue screen that gave me an error. It was “kernel_data_inpage_error.” After the blue screen, the computer would automatically (after a dew seconds) go to the welcome screen and then start as normal. When it started, I would get the normal error box that pops up in Windows that told me the computer didn’t shut down properly and asks if I would like to report this to Microsoft.
Last night, I decided to call Dell support. I spoke with a guy who used a program to take over my computer so he could check some stuff out. He said that it was most likely a driver that was causing the issue. He then checked the paging file size. Reminder…I am running Windows Vista Ultimate. He said, “Hmmm, this is probably causing the problem.” I didn’t get a good look at it, but I believe the paging file size was too small. He increased it to 1000-6000 and things seem to be running smoothly.
After a few minutes, I realized that this computer is now much, much faster. I am assuming this has something to do with the paging file size. Now, it feels like I am working on the computer I bought.
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Posted in Computers | 2 Comments »
