Google Gives the Web Chrome
Posted on September 3, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
Officially entering the browser wars, Google has unleashed Chrome to the masses, whether they want/need it or not. The browser wars haven’t really seemed to show room for another player. Mozilla Firefox has done well to attract a decent audience, but it’s usage is still less than rival Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Some cite IE’s pre-installed inclusion with Windows as the primary reason for the browser’s dominance.
After checking it out, Chrome looks neat and clean - which makes browsing the web all the more enjoyable. The tabs have a great visual feel, less clunky than those found in IE and more stylish than those in Firefox. However, the biggest downside is that the browser doesn’t always function properly - the bugs still need to be shaken out of the product. And until then, I’m content to stick with Firefox 3.
Even though it’s still brand new, Google’s plans for the new Chrome browser extend into the mobile world, too, as the Internet giant is going to integrate Chrome into its future Android product. The only thing we can safely say for now is that the future of web browsing is finally being pushed into the new century.
Fitting the Bug Deflector
Posted on September 2, 2008 - Filed Under Automotive, Business
I’m purchasing a few additional accessories for my truck. One of the obstacles I ran into was finding the right bug deflector for the vehicle. Turns out, the process is actually really simple. Instead of buying a generic product, though, it is suggested you buy one that’s designed for the type of truck you have, so that the first is appropriate the whole way through.
I did the same thing when it came to finding the right back rack for my truck. It isn’t always easy to find a rack that fits with the truck correctly, but when you know what you are looking for, and you have a resource for it, the process is a lot easier. I found that it takes just a few minutes to look up sizes and features of the truck right on the website. For example, I have a Ford truck, so I went to Ford’s website for trucks to get all the specs on the truck I have. It made the process easier when buying the accessories I wanted.
If you need a truck rack or another type of accessory, I find it pretty easy to find accessories online. There are several great choices to choose from so you can even have some personalization to the items you buy.
The Value of Old Maps
Posted on August 29, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
When you live with a pack rat, things can get a bit tricky. Over the years I’ve learned to pick my battles wisely. I put up with boxes and tubs full of computer and television cables because the payoff is that our computers are always running perfectly and we have amazing picture and sound on our hi-def TV. I even put up with the crates full of vinyl records, because they are neatly stacked and indexed and it can be fun to listen to my favorite albums from high school when I’m feeling nostalgic.
However, the stacks of papers that inhabit my house periodically get out of control and I have to put my foot down. Aside from being a fire and pest hazard, they are just useless. When will we ever need a 1994 calendar again? Or stacks of old magazines that weren’t read when they arrived, let alone five years later?
This weekend, I decided to deal with the map problem. While I understand that we may, in fact, need a road atlas for our next trip and it’s good to have a few reference maps around, I don’t understand the need for twenty-five different Florida maps. Especially given that we’ve never been to Florida! I didn’t even bother to count the number of US maps I found shoved in various drawers and files. I just put my foot down and said, “You can keep two maps per state or country – the rest go in the recycle bin.” AND I made sure that the ones that stayed were organized and put away in a file drawer. Maybe next month I’ll tackle the greeting card problem.
The Tattoo Machine and Thomas Edison
Posted on August 29, 2008 - Filed Under Business, Society
Perhaps you are getting ready for your first tattoo. Perhaps you are feeling nervous about it. Well don’t worry, there have been many people before you and they have all survived! To make you feel more comfortable let’s look at the tattoo machines.
The tattoo machine was invented by Thomas Edison in 1876. Its original purpose was as an engraving machine but was modified to be used for tattooing. Since then things have changed greatly and now use electromagnets which can control needle depth, force, and speed of application. This enables great accuracy and makes the whole thing much safer – and less painful.
If you are looking to become a tattooist you can visit a tattoo supplies wholesale to see what is on offer. Once you know the model you are after you can buy it or check online for tattoo machines for sale. Once you get your machine you can be assured that the technology used in it is a big advance on the one invented by Thomas Edison.
Total Eclipse of the Sun on Friday
Posted on July 31, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
Skywatchers around the globe can see a total eclipse of the Sun on Friday.
A dark shadow will sweep across the surface of the planet in a broad arc as the Moon passes directly between the Earth and our star.
The eclipse begins in Canada’s high Arctic and ends in northern China’s Silk Road region.
Parts of northern Russia will go dark for two minutes, 27 seconds from 1021 GMT - but Britain will only experience a partial eclipse around 1016 BST.
That partial eclipse will be seen across most of Europe, Asia and north-eastern North America.
As is always the case with eclipses, tourists and amateur and professional astronomers have been flooding towns in the best viewing locations - along the path of totality. Read more…
U.S. Open Tennis Set to be Dramatic
Posted on July 30, 2008 - Filed Under Sports
Rafael Nadal won this year’s French Open and then the Wimbledon. I know he has a good draw but I don’t think he can beat Roger Federer in the U.S. Open tennis tournament. Federer is going to make history once again.
What really peaks my interest is the fact that the Olympics occurs during the tennis season. Following the tennis part of the Olympics is the U.S. Open. The players will not have adequate time to rest and they most likely aggravate their injuries and incur new ones.
Either way, this year’s tennis season has been full of upsets and records. The Olympics only add even more drama to this sport and they players will be able to feel it.
Fast Food Getting Healthy?
Posted on July 30, 2008 - Filed Under Business, Health
In the western world one of the biggest health concerns is obesity. This problem has grown with the development of the fast food industry. However, today there is some good news! Dunkin’ Donuts is to introduce a new healthy menu!!
Dunkin’ Donuts, the chain famous for its filled doughnuts with icing on top or covered in chocolate sprinkles, is introducing a new healthy menu.
The so-called DDSmart menu, which will be introduced in the US in August, does not include any doughnuts.
Instead it has nibbles such as an egg white veggie flatbread sandwich.
According to the firm, this has 25% less sugar, fat, saturated fat, salt and calories than the sausage, egg and cheese croissant it already offers.
The sandwich is 290 calories and contains 9 grams of fat, or 14% of the daily allowance, and 680 milligrams of salt, which is 28% of the daily allowance.
Among other items on the menu is a reduced-fat blueberry muffin, and a multigrain bagel.
Hopefully more fast food giants will follow this lead. Read more…
U.S. Open and 2008 Olympics Leave Pros with No Rest
Posted on July 29, 2008 - Filed Under Sports
The 2008 Olympics will begin next month on 8/8/08. This date was chosen because it is lucky according to the Chinese astrological calendar. For professional tennis players, they don’t get a break between tennis season and the Olympics.
In fact, the two occur at the same time. The U.S. Open is played over Labor Day weekend at the end of August through the beginning of September. Since the Olympics start on the 8th, there is no break. And many people have trouble keeping up with tennis while the Olympics are being held.
U.S. Open tennis news coverage will be on the Tennis Channel and I’m sure there will be a lot of talk about the Beijing Olympics since these players will go from one to the other.
Next Day Blinds is Spot On!
Posted on July 26, 2008 - Filed Under Home & Garden
I have had the same window blinds for years now. They work fine and they still look good but I felt like getting some new window treatments in my living room and kitchen. I wanted honeycomb blinds for the kitchen window and plantation shutters for the living room. I wasn’t sure how to go about procuring all of this so I looked up window blinds companies in my area and found Next Day Blinds.
I was very impressed with their selection and their service. They had so much to choose from. Really, they had something to go with every style out there. And they helped my stay within my budget. A person from Next Day Blinds came to my house for an in-home consultation and they even installed the blinds for me.
Microsoft Brings Technology to the Surface
Posted on July 16, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
Surface is an exciting foray into the brave new world of 21st Century technology. Unlike the release of another iteration of Windows, Surface viably has the potential to revolutionize not only the computer and electronics industries, but it could have a significant effect on the world as we know it. Microsoft’s Surface brings the physical and digital worlds together on a table. People can touch, move and manipulate the data appearing on the screen. Groups can use Surface together or share the space for their individual tasks. It’s a surreal experience reminiscent of Spielberg’s Minority Report.
It isn’t necessary to visit a Hollywood set to see the device in action. The curious, skeptic, and enthusiastic can all experience Surface right now. See how Surface brings innovation home at Disneyland through their new Tomorrowland “Dream Home” attraction. In Las Vegas, the iBar at the Rio All Suite Hotel boasts multiple Surface units for guest use. When at select AT&T stores nationwide, you may be treated to a new Surface shopping experience. As interest in the technology grows, it’s a safe bet that units will be available to use in more locations.
Currently, Surface is only available at commercial venues and it is not yet being made available to the general public for sale, rent, loan or lease. However, consumers will not have to wait long to get their hands on their own personal Surface. Via their official Surface web page, Microsoft has mentioned plans to release the ground-breaking gadget within the next three to five years.
Rivalries Keep Tennis Alive
Posted on June 30, 2008 - Filed Under Sports
I was disappointed this year when French Open champ Justine Henin announced her retirement. I had no idea that she was completely burnt out. She was supposed to win again and set a new record for consecutive wins.
Tennis is somewhat exciting when something like this happens because it opens up a spot for someone else to win and climb in the rankings. And when there are rivalries like the one between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, things stay interesting. In addition, when you have sisters like Venus and Serena Williams playing in the same tournaments, you tend to stay interested.
Liberty League has Most Trusted Personal Development Program
Posted on June 20, 2008 - Filed Under Employment
There has been a lot of talk lately about personal development and all of the programs available out there. I’ve done some research and the best one that I’ve seen is called Beyond Freedom by Liberty League International. There are tons of videos about it on You Tube and everyone swears by it. It is a 90 day program and it will help you to reach and surpass your dreams. And they have conferences all over the world. They have been held in South Africa, Australia and even Canada. I even read that they walked on fire and streamlined through a rain forest. So, with all of the noise about self-help, I think Liberty League is the best one to try.
Realistic Considerations for the Tattoo Wearer
Posted on June 19, 2008 - Filed Under Society
There is no doubt that a tattoo gives an individual the opportunity to be as creative as they desire. This is especially true when it comes to choosing a tattoo with color. Though a red rose is quite lovely, a cerulean blue rose on someone’s shoulder can be just as eye catching and captivating. Nothing could be more fun than deciding the color scheme for other designs, such as dragon or fairy tattoos. Certain colors are not only pleasing to the eye; they have meanings behind them as well. However, it is always a good idea to get a tattoo artist’s perspective on whether or not a certain color scheme is as viable as it seems.
Whether opting for tribal tattoos or sun tattoos, it is important to keep in mind that heavy lined and colorful tattoos should be placed carefully on the body. This is especially true for those individuals in lines of work where a tattoo may conflict with an employer’s guidelines. Many provide these guidelines in an employee’s handbook upon employment. Beautifully colored tattoos are often admired by a large majority of the mainstream; however, some companies are required to maintain a compliant and professional atmosphere for the sake of business.
Leadership Development Training Classes are Great Professional Development
Posted on June 17, 2008 - Filed Under Employment
Leadership development training classes can help boost your career, especially now that the market is bad and every sale counts. Professional development never hurts and in times like these it proves to be especially helpful.
There is also a program for sales training available that can give you new skills or remind you of ones that you may have forgotten if you are in the sales area. People want to buy from companies that will be there for them and you can learn how to foster that customer relationship with a course like this one.
And if you manage people, taking a management training program can help you to rally your troops and encourage them to get motivated and to make more sales. Their success is a reflection of your skills as well as their own. Seeking this kind of professional growth will help you to succeed.
In-Home Consultation Makes Getting Window Blinds Easy
Posted on June 16, 2008 - Filed Under Home & Garden
I saw a Next Day Blinds commercial the other day and I found out that they do in-home consultations. I called them and had a designer come over to help me choose custom window blinds for my house.
I’ve been wanting to this for years but I just never had the time and I thought that it would take forever for me to measure each window, remember a lot about each room and then go see about getting blinds.
Now that I know the interior decorating blinds can be done in my home, I’m getting it all done and I’m loving every minute of it. I don’t have to remember what everything in each room looks like and I can pick out the perfect blinds for each room.
Finding Leadership Training and Other Courses
Posted on June 12, 2008 - Filed Under Business, Employment
There are several ways to perform better at your job and the Dale Carnegie company offers many courses in every state and in several different countries. They offer sales training in Minneapolis, for instance to help their clients improve their skills when dealing with customers.
They also offer presentation skills in North Dakota. Really, no matter what state you are in, you can find a course that will increase your productivity and will make your job easier and your performance better.
Finding the branch and courses nearest to you is easy. Just do a Google search for the skills course you want to take and the state that you are in. If you are in North Dakota and you want to take a course in leadership, search for "leadership training North Dakota" and you will find Dale Carnegie at the top of the SERP.
Next Day Blinds Sets Example with Press Release
Posted on May 30, 2008 - Filed Under Business
I just stumbled upon a press release from Next Day Blinds. It talked about how as their fleet breaks, they are replacing them with hybrids. Of course they aren’t switching all of their cars at once but as they break down or there is a need for a new one, they are getting hybrids.
This is great. I wish more companies would follow their example and take small steps to make a difference. If companies took things slowly, they would see that it’s not so hard to do. And the more we do, the better off we all are.
Tattoo Guns Keep Improving
Posted on May 22, 2008 - Filed Under Entertainment
There is a new trend in the world of tattooing and it does not seem to be going anywhere any time soon. And to think, these artists that are living it up now started out with a tattoo gun and a tattoo starter supplies kit most likely.
Since getting tattooed has really become popular, the artists are a lot busier than they have been in the past. Everyone seems to be getting work done; from teens to mothers to some grandfathers.
And I’ve noticed the selection of tattoo guns has improved and there is a lot to choose from. There is also a ton of tattoo flash and ink colors to pick out too. The artists are very skilled and I think that all of the work they’ve done seems to be improving.
Federer Versus Nadal is Great for French Open
Posted on May 21, 2008 - Filed Under Sports
The rivalry of Federer versus Nadal is well documented and watched. Nadal has beat Federer in the last two French Opens, preventing him from getting a career Grand Slam. The French Open coverage of these two is always great as it seems everyone involved with tennis news is an expert.
The tournament is always a lot of fun to watch and the French Open tennis tournament results make me want to watch as much of it as possible. I love to see the how happy the players are when they win. Many of them are arrogant but they should be, they are the best in the world.
But the rivalry should be heated again this year. Federer hired a special coach that apparently knows how to train players to win on the clay court. Nadal plays his best on clay and Federer on grass. The question is, can Federer outplay Nadal for just one match?
When San Diego Golf Academy Makes Sense
Posted on May 16, 2008 - Filed Under Employment, Sports
Those who play golf are known to be quite passionate about the game and it is believed to be the reason the industry has grown so large. When these same passionate individuals take on careers in golf, it creates a very solid industry that continuously expands and grows. Schools like the San Diego Golf Academy allow students to take the excitement they have for golf and turn it into something valuable for themselves. Students can find themselves behind the scenes managing upscale golf courses or offering golf instruction to beginners or advanced players.
Those who attend accredited golf schools will end up with a career that allows them to channel their energy in a very positive way. While others dread waking up in the morning because of their jobs, this is hardly the case for those who enjoy their golf profession. A degree from a golf school can be a breeze to earn when students have a strong interest in the subject matter. Even a degree that only takes two years to earn will seem much less. When all is said and done, a student graduates with not only a degree but also a great deal of confidence.
Liberty League and Beyond
Posted on May 16, 2008 - Filed Under Finance
I went to South Africa for a Liberty League conference. Not only did I gain a lot of understanding and knowledge, I overcame a fear of mine. I have always been afraid to take risks, especially adrenaline risks. I don’t like roller coasters and things like that. But I went streamlining through the country and felt more alive than I ever have before.
Since I joined Liberty League Intl I have done more with my life than I had in all of the years before. I was able to quit my nine to five job and work for myself. I am now financially free. And I get to spend more time doing the things I love. I play tennis three times a week minimum and I am home in the mornings to take my kids to school.
Liberty League International changed my life. The conference was amazing and I can’t wait until the next one. Since I joined the League I’ve been to Hawaii, Australia, Miami Beach and Canada. I never dreamt of going to all of these places but now I know it’s my reality.
Drug Abuse Prevention is First Step
Posted on May 13, 2008 - Filed Under Health
As a teacher, I have to talk to my students about drugs every year to help them stay away from drugs and alcohol. I love and hate this because I know that some of the students are not listening and that they are already on drugs. But I forge ahead because drugs and alcohol destroy the lives of so many people.
Heroin hurts many of today’s youth and the only way for the addicts to regain control is to enroll in treatment for heroin addiction. Programs like this help the users learn how to cope with the pressures of life without abusing a substance.
A good long term drug rehab facility will meet all of the needs of the addict. They will teach the person how to deal with pressure and triggers, who to stay away from and how to reenter society. Drug abuse rehabilitation works when it is long term. The more serious the addiction, the more longer amount of time is needed.
And while I hate to see students that I think are using drugs, I like to tell them about the treatment that is available to them.
Trust Your Gut When It Comes To Permanent Cosmetics
Posted on May 9, 2008 - Filed Under Health & Beauty
When choosing a permanent cosmetics artist, be sure to make sure the person is certified in your state. Also check around the office and make sure that it appears clean. And finally, be sure to ask about their equipment.
Many people are jumping on the beauty permanent make up bandwagon and rushing out to become an artist. Some of these people have not properly trained for this while others do not know about the sanitary issues involved. It is important to check the credentials before starting.
Make sure the area where the permanent makeup cosmetics is applied is clean. If it does not look clean, chances are it isn’t. A good artist will clean the area before you sit down, even if it was sprayed down after the previous left.
And make sure to ask about the equipment used. If an artist uses a very old gun, chances are he or she does not keep up with the latest trends, etc. This means that they may adhere to practices that are no longer acceptable.
No matter what, trust your gut. If you do not feel 100% sure, do not go through with it.
Next Day Blinds Meets All Window Needs
Posted on May 9, 2008 - Filed Under Uncategorized
I am building a new house and I basically have to start from scratch with the interior decorating. I have to get blinds or window treatments for all of the windows within a couple of months. I’m going to get custom blinds from Next Day Blinds for the living room and kitchen. Those rooms are very visible from the street.
Next I’m going to research interior decorating to see what I should do to all of the bedrooms. I like wood blinds and I even saw bamboo blinds someone that were very nice. I am going to have to do all of the rooms but I don’t want to rush and later regret what I get.
So, as luck had it, I opened up my Sunday paper and Next Day Blinds advertising fell out. I think it was a sign because they were able to help me with the entire house. I was scared about
French Open Results Could Show Improved Records
Posted on April 17, 2008 - Filed Under Sports
The French Open results for this year’s Roland Garros tournament should be exciting like it has been for the past few years. Rafael Nadal and Justine Henin-Hardenne are both defending their titles while trying to set new records.
Rafael Nadal has won the past 3 years and for last 2 of those years he has beaten Roger Federer. Though both men say there is no rivalry, it appears that there is one and Federer cannot wait until this year to once again try to win the title
Justine Henin-Hardenne will also be trying to set a record by being the first woman since the start of the open-era to win 4 consecutive French Opens. She has defeated a different player for the past 3 years and she intends to make it a fourth.
Permanent Cosmetics Serves Many Purposes
Posted on April 14, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
Permanent cosmetics has come a long way since people first started to realize the many benefits it. There are now many different techniques and many different options for those that seek this time-saving investment.
Permanent makeup supplies companies now have pigments for correcting older treatments that were not done correctly. They also provide everything from lips, eyebrows, eyeliner and even blush.
Now those that have had reconstructive surgery because of mastectomies can have the procedure done and feel even better about their bodies. Not only do these treatments help those with discolored cosmetics, they help by saving time.
Liberty League, Photos and Journal Make the Best Souvenir
Posted on April 8, 2008 - Filed Under Travel
Whenever I travel I take plenty of pictures and I always write in my journal. I find these are the best souvenirs. Last year I went to Africa for the yearly Liberty League Int get together. I took a ton of pictures but I spent a lot of time writing down my experiences.
I am going to Rome this year for the Liberty League International conference. I always feel very inspired when I’m around those guys. I feel like I can do anything when I travel and learn how to better myself.
The video about Liberty League on You Tube shares a bit about them with the world. Check it out when you get a chance.
Maps Help Teacher with Lesson
Posted on April 4, 2008 - Filed Under Travel
I have been planning a lesson for my students based on countries that they want to visit. I want to visit Jamaica so I brought several maps of Jamaica. Several of my students wanted to visit Norway so I brought them a map of Norway. They wanted to go there because they think it would be great to snowboard there.
And finally I brought them maps of Poland. I had them go over all of the places of destination and find geographical points of interest. They marked things like mountains, rivers, and the like.
By the end of the lesson they all wanted to go to Jamaica, Norway and Poland. I choose the sunny one and most of my snowboarding students choose Norway while the history buffs choose Poland.
Choosing a permanent cosmetic technician
Posted on March 28, 2008 - Filed Under Health
When looking at prospective permanent cosmetic techs, it is imperative that you go with somebody you trust and that is certified by The American Academy of Micropigmentation. Make sure to get a list of people that your prospective technician has done work for and get in contact with them to see how they feel about the results. The demand for and interest in the permanent cosmetics field increases every year and as more and more technicians enter the field, it’s going to be far more important to find those that do the best work.
Maps Help Relive Vacations
Posted on March 26, 2008 - Filed Under Technology
I love the summertime. In fact, traveling the world is my favorite thing to do. When I can’t travel, I imagine that I am in a place that I’ve been to before. For this all I do is look over the photographs that I’ve taken and pull out the maps that I used while on a trip.
I want to go on another African safari. I can’t do that this year so I spent some time going over my maps of Africa. I looked at all of the countries that I visited and I examined my souvenirs from that trip.
I looked at the geographic maps and remembered mountains and rivers that I visited, which reminded me of my Asia maps. I loved strolling through villages in Japan. The sushi was the best that I’ve ever had.
While I might not be able to travel the world as often as I like, I can relive the experiences that I’ve had. And I’ll add more to my map collection after my next trip.
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