Turns Out I'm Not Insane
Jan 31, 2006
Turns out I'm not insane.Once again, my clock went off at 6:12 instead of 6:25.
I changed it to the right time, went for a shower, and the clock was advanced in time.
Must be something loose in the clock.
Normally I would just beat it against the wall and see if that fixes anything. But I'm making some coin now...I'm sure I can afford a new alarm clock. Plus, I could always put this clock in the spare room. So what if my guests get to wake up 13 minutes earlier?
----
Last night I did my Comm Research test which confirmed that I need to take better notes. Either that, or the prof is insane. I then spent a few hours with Vero which was excellent.
Anyone out there have a heat gun I can borrow? I have a dent in my bumper and I've heard that if you heat the thing up, you can just push it back out, since it's plastic.
Am I Going Insane?
Jan 30, 2006
Last night I walk away from my computer.It's 10:59.
I walk into my bedroom. The alarm clock reads 11:19.
I check my wristwatch - it's 11:00.
Clearly, my alarm clock is messed up. This is the SECOND time this week where the time is messed up. I have no idea why.
I change the clock time. I set my alarm for 6:25.
I wake up at 6:25, do the usual stuff and then when I reach for my cell phone and watch, I discover that the time is...6:25.
As in, I just spent fifteen minutes in the shower, and it is now only the time where I woke up.
What the heck?
I believe I am going insane... I had a migraine headache the other week and ever since then, weird, silly things have been happening like the inability to type a sentence, or my clock times changing randomly.
In terms of the clock time changing last night, logic would dictate that it really was 11:19 when I went to bed and both my computer and wristwatch were off...but that doesn't really make any sense.
So...I'm going insane I think. Or my alarm clock has a glitch.
Speaking about bettering oneself, I'm finally going to go to a doctor to get a physical. I've never been to a doctor since I was a kid, and I met a Doctor while in Europe who was saying how I should think about getting checked out before I'm 30.
I'm not worried about something, but it's good to go to a doctor to get checked out just in case they can prevent something.
So, word of advice for the day - Go see a doctor! They are there to help. Contrary to popular belief, they are still accepting new patients. At least the one I found is.
(random) + Review of The Jeff Healey Band
- I've been trying to upload another Morning Show file to ihud. Ain't working. Will have to try from another computer. I love technology, but not as much as you and me.
- Weekend was a bust - read all my books and studied. Do I feel smarter? No. Do I feel scared for the test? Heck yeah. The Prof doesn't use class notes...he wings it. Maybe he's a super-genius who remembers things. That's right...I'm going to expose the University for what it really is. A breeding ground for higher level intelligence. Wait a second. That's what University is all about anyhow.
- Still chugging away at organizing the slew of MP3s that Tobias passed onto me when I was in Paris. Man, there's a lot of stuff there.
- Starting to learn a new song with Mike - Landing in London by 3 Doors Down. A decent tune. Although I think Mike and I realizing that the way to rock is not to learn another ballad. Ha!
Had some dinner beforehand which was delic and then headed on upstairs to see the opening act Roadhouse who were decent at amping up the crowd.
Lonestar is a strange venue to see a band...the stage is at the same level as the dance floor (well, half of it at least) so when it came to the band coming on stage, I must admit it wasn't the greatest experience because with a man who sits down to play, only the first row of people can see him! 3/4 of the way through the set we had a chance to push our way up to the front and catch the awe-inspiring playing of Mr. Healey. What can I say? I don't think anyone in the world plays guitar the way he does...and he's no hack. He's an amazing guitarist. The night was filled with a bunch of blues tunes and they even brought on a girl from the Ottawa area to sing a few tunes. Trish thought that her voice was good, but she was moving her body too sexy for that young of a girl and should be punished. Here's my word to Trish - when you rock, you gotta move.
My only gripe about the night is when these crazy cougars in the front row were reaching out to touch Jeff Healey's hands while he was setting up to play. He even pulled away at one point and made a comment about it. Alright...I don't see a big deal about touching someone's hand...but then during a song one lady rubbed his leg while he was playing! That's just rude. He's a man, not an object for you to bewilder. Just because the man is blind doesn't mean that you have to touch him like that. Did anyone rub the other band members legs? No. Why not? If she were to answer, she would probably say something like "Because they're not special."
Anyhow...I was hoping to see her later on so I could rub her leg and see how she liked it. ;-) Moron.
All in all...2 thumbs up for performance, no thumbs up for stage setup. We were saying how when we hit up Toronto next time, we should stop into his bar seeing him play. I'm sure they have a better setup.
Pet Peeve: Fridays
Jan 27, 2006
You all know me, I'm an easy going guy. Nothing really rocks my boat.
But when the dreaded Friday approaches, I cringe.
Sure, I'm happy that it's the end of the week. I would be stupid not to. Work seems a little more slack on a Friday...it's like I am the leader of a zombie pack and I am a zombie myself.
But, the one thing that irks me, is the following conversation that happens with people.
Me: "Hey, how's it going?"
(Random person): "It's Friday!"
ARGH! I know it's Friday! Everyone should know it's Friday. Friday is not an emotion. I know these people are only trying to say "Hey, I'm doing pretty good. The week was hard but it's the end and I'm looking forward to relaxing this weekend."
But give me something with substance here people! It irks me when they use a day of the week to convey their emotions. You know it wouldn't even be so bad if someone replied:
(Random Person): "I'm doing pretty good. It's Friday!"
Hey, I can relate. I hear ya man. Good times are a-coming, especially when you have plans to see the Jeff Healey Band tonight with some friends. Can't complain.
But when you just say "It's Friday" it irks me. Especially when the same people do it. It's like 'their thing' to say when Friday is coming up.
I'm going to try out the 'It's Tuesday' for awhile and see how that treats people. What will people think? Will they think I'm happy because it's new release day for most different forms of media (aka new CDs, new movies, etc.). What about if I said "It's Wednesday!" Does that mean that I've made it to hump day and I'm good to roll down the other side of the hill. Maybe if I still collectec comic books this would show that I'm glad it's Wednesday because there are some new comics on the rack.
Oddly enough, I don't have this feeling when it's Monday. I think there are a few people who say 'It's Monday' and I just don't bother to care either way. Maybe it's because I've led my pack of Zombies from work on a Friday but still am a Zombie when I return to work on the Monday.
Happy Friday People.
But when the dreaded Friday approaches, I cringe.
Sure, I'm happy that it's the end of the week. I would be stupid not to. Work seems a little more slack on a Friday...it's like I am the leader of a zombie pack and I am a zombie myself.
But, the one thing that irks me, is the following conversation that happens with people.
Me: "Hey, how's it going?"
(Random person): "It's Friday!"
ARGH! I know it's Friday! Everyone should know it's Friday. Friday is not an emotion. I know these people are only trying to say "Hey, I'm doing pretty good. The week was hard but it's the end and I'm looking forward to relaxing this weekend."
But give me something with substance here people! It irks me when they use a day of the week to convey their emotions. You know it wouldn't even be so bad if someone replied:
(Random Person): "I'm doing pretty good. It's Friday!"
Hey, I can relate. I hear ya man. Good times are a-coming, especially when you have plans to see the Jeff Healey Band tonight with some friends. Can't complain.
But when you just say "It's Friday" it irks me. Especially when the same people do it. It's like 'their thing' to say when Friday is coming up.
I'm going to try out the 'It's Tuesday' for awhile and see how that treats people. What will people think? Will they think I'm happy because it's new release day for most different forms of media (aka new CDs, new movies, etc.). What about if I said "It's Wednesday!" Does that mean that I've made it to hump day and I'm good to roll down the other side of the hill. Maybe if I still collectec comic books this would show that I'm glad it's Wednesday because there are some new comics on the rack.
Oddly enough, I don't have this feeling when it's Monday. I think there are a few people who say 'It's Monday' and I just don't bother to care either way. Maybe it's because I've led my pack of Zombies from work on a Friday but still am a Zombie when I return to work on the Monday.
Happy Friday People.
Sayonara Cassettes!
A stroke of ambition hit me late last night and I decided to test out the TV tuner card Mike lent me to see if I could digitize my old videocassettes.Success! Sort of?
The thing works...I started recording a Smashing Pumpkins: Intimate and Interactive concert back from...1998? It records in real time so I figured it would try and tape the entire 6 hour tape. I left it running overnight and when I awoke, I found it did in fact tape the 2 hour long show, but didn't bother capturing any other footage on the videocassette. Another drawback is the fact that this 2 hour long MPG file is 8 gigabytes large...I would need a dual-layer DVD to put this onto.
Granted, this is after setting it up for 45 minutes and letting it run overnight. I'm sure this weekend I will find the answers to the following questions:
- The resolution of a TV set is 320x40. But if I record at 700+ it turns out to be less in size. What's up with that?
- Is there a way to bring down the size while recording? When trying to create the DVD, it does start talking about how it's WAY too big for a conventional single layer DVD and attempts to downgrade the quality, but it only shaved off 500MB. So two options appear: 1) Figure out a way to record it into a lower quality to begin with. 2) Use a program to downgrade to a nice 4.7GB size (perhaps DVDShrink? Does it work with MPGs?)
- What do I do with all the old videocassettes afterwards? I'm talking EVERYTHING. I want to first transfer any home videos, as well as stuff I've videotaped off of TV. Then I will ahead and tape actual movies. But afterwards, should I just chuck them in the garbage? In essence, I have converted the videos and they will be on a nifty DVD. I have heard that DVDs degrade over time, but so do videocassettes...
- Can I make a business out of this? Someone told me that a business charges $75 per hour of video that they convert to DVD. That is insane. I mean, I haven't gone through the whole process of making a DVD yet, but I don't think it will take too much of my time. MAYBE if I have to search for different scenes and make a menu and whatnot.
Burning of the Vid
Jan 26, 2006
This blog entry is posted in the honour of Vero. Who loves Star Wars. Not yet, but she will.
Lately, Benoit and I have been on the DVD burning bandwagon (fueling the reason why I'm modding my XBox since my DVD player was crap - by the way, I got my mod chip last night. Niiice.) for Star Wars related flicks.
It's not enough to have just the movies...we have to have it all! So far we managed to get some highly sought after vids from Jennie - the Original Trilogy (that's right - not the Special Editions!) from the Laserdisc rip, as well as the beloved Turkish Star Wars which I will soon have a viewing party for. It is great. I have just fast-forwarded and so far I have noticed footage from both Star Wars AND Raiders of the Lost Arks. Oh, you non-copyright Turkish films...you art funny.
Anyhow, I'm just stoked that the Internet is a wild, wild place for making professional looking DVDs. I mean, I can burn a DVD that I download from the Net, print a label to stick onto the disc, and buy an empty DVD case to place a cover onto. This is a full-fledge bootleg business here!
I heard a rumour that someone makes copies of DVDs and sells them on EBay to foreign countries because it is not illegal for them to buy them...that is a sweet, sweet business my friend. Extra cash? No problem!
In random other news, Mike the Roomie is starting to get some interviews coming his way. Congrats! Too bad one of them is literally across town in Kanata. Yikes! Invest in a video iPod! Or, at the very least, buy my iPod Photo off of me so I can buy a viPod.
update: Literally a minute after posting this, Mike gets a job offer from his old co-op position! He doesn't even have to go for an interview today in Kanata! Yay!
It's not enough to have just the movies...we have to have it all! So far we managed to get some highly sought after vids from Jennie - the Original Trilogy (that's right - not the Special Editions!) from the Laserdisc rip, as well as the beloved Turkish Star Wars which I will soon have a viewing party for. It is great. I have just fast-forwarded and so far I have noticed footage from both Star Wars AND Raiders of the Lost Arks. Oh, you non-copyright Turkish films...you art funny.
Anyhow, I'm just stoked that the Internet is a wild, wild place for making professional looking DVDs. I mean, I can burn a DVD that I download from the Net, print a label to stick onto the disc, and buy an empty DVD case to place a cover onto. This is a full-fledge bootleg business here!
I heard a rumour that someone makes copies of DVDs and sells them on EBay to foreign countries because it is not illegal for them to buy them...that is a sweet, sweet business my friend. Extra cash? No problem!
In random other news, Mike the Roomie is starting to get some interviews coming his way. Congrats! Too bad one of them is literally across town in Kanata. Yikes! Invest in a video iPod! Or, at the very least, buy my iPod Photo off of me so I can buy a viPod.
update: Literally a minute after posting this, Mike gets a job offer from his old co-op position! He doesn't even have to go for an interview today in Kanata! Yay!
Grades or Bust!
While reading Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (I just realized that I haven't hyperlinked much text in the last while...I suppose it's just a little extra time out of my day whereas you can just Google anything your heart desires...) I came across this interesting concept where a teacher didn't provide grades throughout the term which pissed off people at first, but then it changed the way students approached the learning angle - they actually ended up producing better work and paid more attention in class (as opposed to the end of term slump where everyone knows their marks anyhow and they don't really care). It shows that students should be in an institution of education to learn and not to get a grade.This was an interesting concept as it ties into the whole theory that you should be educated because you want to be, not because you are told to. Granted, this doesn't work for children...they wouldn't know any better. Or would they? While reading Race Against Time I am finding that as soon as gov'ts eliminate school fees, 1000's of children are coming to school because they wish to learn. This is hard concept for a lot of people who have grown up in the education system we have here, where everyone gets an education...my prof mentioned that it's funny to see that University courses are the one thing in the world that you pay a lof of money for, but are ecstatic if it gets cancelled one day! Imagine an opposite scenario where you had to give the Prof $100 each class you attended for a three hour lecture. No wonder the universities take their tuition up front!
Anyhow, I feel that I am now entering the point in my life where I am wanting to be educated, and not for grades. I recall when I decided to return to University, I was driven by the fact that if I didn't have a degree, I would probably not be able to become a Director one day. That was my driving force. I didn't even really know if I would enjoy Communications...the only reason I took it was because it was a 90 credit course.
But I slowly realized that I enjoy going back to class as I get to learn something. I put a lot of actual thought into the essays I've written and it's something I actually care about. I look at what errors I've made and where I can improve. This isn't the Palmer of yesteryear where he just cared about his grades...this is the Palmer of now where I am more concerned of what I take from the class.
Prof. Lowes says that the best students don't get the best grades. I am starting to see why he says that.
Mod Chip or Bust
Jan 25, 2006
Check this people...today we're going to go into a little technology lesson Palmer style with the introduction to (insert those mighty sounding trumpets right about...NOW!)Mod Chips.
Whoa whoa whoa buddy...don't we have Wikipedia for all this stuff?
This is true. For the real scoop on things and not just the way things are observed by yours truly, log onto wikipedia.org for the real deal.
Anyhow, let's give you a little background on some forces that played into my ordering a mod chip.
- My DVD player is ancient and so if I watched a burned DVD (such as a kickass Smashing Pumpkins concert), it's all choppy.
- I have media galore - music, vids, you name it.
- Mike has media galore also.
- Video games are cool.
- NINTENDO video games are cooler.
- I had to sell all my old Nintendo games when I was kid to purchase the Super NES. My parents didn't understand the concept of owning TWO video game systems at the same time. Oh my, if they only saw Benoit's place.
- I can use it as a DVD player and it will surely be better than my existing one. No more choppy video.
- It can act as a storage for all my digital media...if I want to check out my pictures on my digital camera, voila, it's there. How about my music? Voila, it's there also.
- I can have emulators (basically, programs that emulate the functions of an actual gaming system such as the NES) which can play all the games I ever wanted.
She's a Superstar!
Jan 24, 2006
Read this previous entry here.
The other day I pass by a new poster up on the Ottawa U campus with 100 mugshots of students celebrating International Diversity Week or something like that (cleary, I did not really stop to look) and thought that there is no way Vero would have made it onto that poster considering she isn't from another country.
I was wrong. Vero told me she found herself on another poster?
What can I say about this beautiful, photogenic person I am involved with? Should I say I feel privileged to be around such a star or should I begin to get scared that I will be left with the life where I sit at home watching the Golden Globes while she walks down the red carpet with Lenny Kravitz?
Maybe I'm looking into this too much. If you're at Ottawa U, look for her face - now appearing EVERYWHERE.
The other day I pass by a new poster up on the Ottawa U campus with 100 mugshots of students celebrating International Diversity Week or something like that (cleary, I did not really stop to look) and thought that there is no way Vero would have made it onto that poster considering she isn't from another country.
I was wrong. Vero told me she found herself on another poster?
What can I say about this beautiful, photogenic person I am involved with? Should I say I feel privileged to be around such a star or should I begin to get scared that I will be left with the life where I sit at home watching the Golden Globes while she walks down the red carpet with Lenny Kravitz?
Maybe I'm looking into this too much. If you're at Ottawa U, look for her face - now appearing EVERYWHERE.
Review: Swing Dancing
What's my favourite thing in the world? Swing dancing!
Not really! I have never tried it. Until Saturday night when Mike, Duncan, Claudine, Vero, Marc, Sara and Chantelle ventured out to the free lesson at Ottawa U.
What can I say? It was alright. The only problem I had with it is that I had a whole 2 minutes of dancing with Vero and then had to switch partners. Boo. I don't mind dancing, but let me look like a fool and a fun time with someone I know.
I was also severely snubbed during the event seeing that when I went to the next girl in line, she bailed and went to dance with a friend who just showed up, which left me standing in between couples dancing and me staring the wall. Then memories of the same events happening at Grade Eight dances came flooding back (actually, let's be honest here and realize that no one actually danced at Grade Eight dances and it was cooler to just hang out near the wall) and I felt dumb so I did what every good man does - bail for the washroom. Ah...the safe haven. No one can question what you're doing in the washroom. Unless you spend 20 minutes in there and your girlfriend sends my friends over to see if I'm alright. Anyhow, I'll admit, I bailed, I was a baby, but whatever. I don't dig dancing with people I don't know.
So...would I do it again? Well, why not? Only if I could just dance with someone I know.
Also, I don't know how useful swing dancing is in the grand scheme of things. Perhaps ballroom is better suited? What am I saying? It's not like I go to any balls or anything from the 19th century here.
iplaying: Hot Metal Streaking Down the 401 - Sam Roberts Band - 2005-08-25 Buffalo NY
Not really! I have never tried it. Until Saturday night when Mike, Duncan, Claudine, Vero, Marc, Sara and Chantelle ventured out to the free lesson at Ottawa U.
What can I say? It was alright. The only problem I had with it is that I had a whole 2 minutes of dancing with Vero and then had to switch partners. Boo. I don't mind dancing, but let me look like a fool and a fun time with someone I know.
I was also severely snubbed during the event seeing that when I went to the next girl in line, she bailed and went to dance with a friend who just showed up, which left me standing in between couples dancing and me staring the wall. Then memories of the same events happening at Grade Eight dances came flooding back (actually, let's be honest here and realize that no one actually danced at Grade Eight dances and it was cooler to just hang out near the wall) and I felt dumb so I did what every good man does - bail for the washroom. Ah...the safe haven. No one can question what you're doing in the washroom. Unless you spend 20 minutes in there and your girlfriend sends my friends over to see if I'm alright. Anyhow, I'll admit, I bailed, I was a baby, but whatever. I don't dig dancing with people I don't know.
So...would I do it again? Well, why not? Only if I could just dance with someone I know.
iplaying: Hot Metal Streaking Down the 401 - Sam Roberts Band - 2005-08-25 Buffalo NY
Review: Underworld - Evolution
Jan 23, 2006
Ah, the return of Kate Bekinsale as the (meow) Selene.Caught the sequel to Underworld at Silvercity on Saturday amidst a giant snowstorm. I especially like how Carol asked me if it snowed in Ottawa and I looked out the window and said no. This was, of course, totally wrong as I was looking into my backyard which has been full of snow for months.
Also, I was asked how old I was at the counter to the movie theatre. This has never happened to me. It was odd to think that this guy thinks I am under 18.
Actually, before I really start this review, let me talk a little more about the trip to the theatre. So, as you all know, Ottawa (and pretty well all of Ontario) was pelted with snow. I get to an intersection and notice across the street that there are two ladies with their car stuck in the ditch. Better sense prevails and I drive over to help them. Upon showing up:
Ladies: Oh thank you for coming over to help.
Me: No problem, let's try and rock it back and forth.
Ladies: Do you think some cardboard under the tires will help?
Me (with this incredulous "God no, the cardboard won't work, what are you thinking? You're stuck in the snowbank!" look on my face): Well, I don't know, you could give it a try.
Ladies: Alright, here you go!
(She passes me a piece of cardboard the size of my palm).
Me: Uh, thanks. (Shoves it under the tire, which is totally useless other than the fact that it'll probably just impale me in the side of the head when she starts spinning).
Anyhow, I'm making headway and I was thankful that another gentleman stopped and helped me push the car out of the snowbank.
Thank you's are passed around and I get back into my car and sit there plugging in my cellphone when I look into my rearview mirror and notice the guy is back again pushing the car out of the snowbank.
That's right...they drove right back into the ruts they created into the snowbank.
Drivers of the world, heed my advice! Avoid the same freakin' spot you just got stuck in.
Onto the movie...
So, the movie picks up literally right after the first one...if anything, a few hours later, nothing more. Selene and Michael are on the run and then Marcus shows up to kick some ass.
All in all, I liked the movie. Definitely not a rental. However, I must say that I would have preferred some clans of vampires vs. werewolves instead of the movie focussing on singular characters such as Selene, Michael, Marcus etc. That's my only gripe. Very tiny gripe.
The Morning Show - Episode #14
Good For the Winter
Jan 20, 2006
Got my Rogers home phone line yesterday.
A little history/techincal lesson for you all here.
Phone lines by Bell are powered, hence, you get phone service even during a blackout.
Rogers doesn't use the Bell phone line (they are not allowed) so how do they get by this problem?
Follow my thought process here:
- They plug a wire into your TV cable outlet.
- Said cable enters this magic box (not really a magic box but for illustrative purposes I shall call it a magic box) which is also plugged into the electrical outlet (important point for later)
- Out of the magic box comes a phone cable which connects to the rest of your phone lines in your house
- Voila, you now have phone lines in your house!
Now, as you may have read, I did not bother getting a VOIP line (aka phone over the Internet, which is cheaper because...heck, on the Internet, there IS no long distance) because if the power went out, I would lose the line, and also 911 if I needed it.
Well, as soon as I see this magic box controlling my phone lines, I had the sudden realization that I have entered into the same problem.
If the power goes out, there will be no phone!
Here comes the brilliance which is this magic box.
It has a 36 hour battery in it in case the power goes out.
Awesome.
Now...tell me, oh geniuses over at VOIP land...why couldn't you offer me something with a 36 hour battery on it?
I predict this happening in 2006 and I will be switching to it in 2006.
Until then...
iplaying: To Forgive (live) - The Smashing Pumpkins - Mellow, Jolly and and The Infinite Madness
A little history/techincal lesson for you all here.
Phone lines by Bell are powered, hence, you get phone service even during a blackout.
Rogers doesn't use the Bell phone line (they are not allowed) so how do they get by this problem?
Follow my thought process here:
- They plug a wire into your TV cable outlet.
- Said cable enters this magic box (not really a magic box but for illustrative purposes I shall call it a magic box) which is also plugged into the electrical outlet (important point for later)
- Out of the magic box comes a phone cable which connects to the rest of your phone lines in your house
- Voila, you now have phone lines in your house!
Now, as you may have read, I did not bother getting a VOIP line (aka phone over the Internet, which is cheaper because...heck, on the Internet, there IS no long distance) because if the power went out, I would lose the line, and also 911 if I needed it.
Well, as soon as I see this magic box controlling my phone lines, I had the sudden realization that I have entered into the same problem.
If the power goes out, there will be no phone!
Here comes the brilliance which is this magic box.
It has a 36 hour battery in it in case the power goes out.
Awesome.
Now...tell me, oh geniuses over at VOIP land...why couldn't you offer me something with a 36 hour battery on it?
I predict this happening in 2006 and I will be switching to it in 2006.
Until then...
iplaying: To Forgive (live) - The Smashing Pumpkins - Mellow, Jolly and and The Infinite Madness
The Morning Show - Episode #13
Bob speaks with Marysol, the French exchange student.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 30, 2001
(12.8MB MPG File)
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 30, 2001
(12.8MB MPG File)
Review: North By Northwest
Last night in honour of Sena returning to the fold which is Ottawa, we watched a Hitchcock film. My first of the sort. Benoit suggested it.The verdict is in - it's a great flick!
I thoroughly enjoyed the film...it had suspense, it had a hot leading lady, it had a spy story. You can't go wrong. Some people commented on how this could be a precursor to the Bond films.
My question about Hitchcock is this...as far as I know (I haven't done much research), he is the master of suspense. Also known for his revolutionary film making techniques.
Well, here in 2006, the techniques aren't exactly new to me. Heck, I couldn't pinpoint which ones would have been revolutionary. What I need is a study guide to go along with the film to point out things that were in its infancy when the film was being made. I think I would appreciate the film more that way.
It's like when you watch a film nowadays and you say 'Hey great film, but where were the special effects." and then people list off of a slew of them and you say "Holy crap, that was a special effect? No way!". Supposedly that is the greatest compliment to a special effects person...letting them know that you didn't even realize it was a special effect (unlike the Burly Brawl sequence in the Matrix Reloaded where it saddens me to see a computer generated face on top of Neo. OR, in Revenge of the Sith with all the Jango clones running around...their faces are kind of sad. With time, it will improve.)
Let's talk about CGI for a moment...I predict in the future, that someone will have the nerve to make a new John Wayne film. Or a new Bruce Lee film. It will be the era of resurrected movie heroes. Technology can allow us to do that...the question is, will the public buy it? Who knows.
Quote of the Day - "I love watching old movies because it makes me feel young!" - Palmer while watching North By Northwest
iplaying: Infinite Sadness (outtake 93) - The Smashing Pumpkins - Mashed Potatoes
*Snap*
Jan 19, 2006
Just in...the Our Lady Peace concert I went to is supposedly being released on February 7.
Happy Dance!
Read about the concert here.
I'm excited to actually have been at a concert that was filmed. Wicked.
Happy Dance!
Read about the concert here.
I'm excited to actually have been at a concert that was filmed. Wicked.
The Morning Show - Episode #12
Bob and Jethro do a little research around the office and Jethro shares a horrible secret of Bob's.
Voted in the Top 3 Episodes.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 29, 2001
(12.5 MB MPGFile)
Voted in the Top 3 Episodes.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 29, 2001
(12.5 MB MPGFile)
Vote For Me!
Jan 18, 2006
So I was reading MikeG's blog over here and I just stumbled upon the most inventive way for me to make cash.
Run for the elections as an independent party.
Last election they introduced the aspect of every vote counting for something towards a party. For every vote a party gets, some money is given to the party.
What if I ran independantly? Do I get some money if someone votes for me?
That would be TOO, TOO wild.
Run for the elections as an independent party.
Last election they introduced the aspect of every vote counting for something towards a party. For every vote a party gets, some money is given to the party.
What if I ran independantly? Do I get some money if someone votes for me?
That would be TOO, TOO wild.
Funkified
A new genre was mysteriously discovered on my iPod today.Funk.
Man, this stuff is wild. I dig the funk. I think I dug it ever since George Clinton and the P-Funk appeared on P.C.U. (which may be the coolest unknown University film there ever was. Heck, I like how the Dean in Old School is the wild child in PCU. You have to watch this movie. Did you know it was filmed entirely in Toronto? Viva le Canada.)
Funk man...are there any funk fans out there? Give me a trumpet and I'll funk the entire house down.
iplaying: Coconut by Harry Nilsson - Reservoir Dogs soundtrack
Hey, for all those out there with an iPod, I highly recommend playing the genres option once in awhile. It's fun!
Quote from PCU:
Tom: What's he doin?
Droz: He's finishing his senior thesis. Pigman is trying to prove the Caine-Hackman theory. No matter what time it is, 24 hours a day, you can find a Michael Caine or Gene Hackman movie playing on TV.
Tom: That's his thesis?
Droz: Yes! That's the beauty of college these days, Tommy! You can major in Game Boy if you know how to bullshit.
Review: Pride and Prejudice
Onto the review. Pride and Prejudice. Romance. In the late 1800s. Boring? Nah. It was decent. I thought the language would be hard to read...it was not. I thought it would be a lame romance story. It was not. I thought it would have simple characters. They did not.
This is a snapshot of how it was to be in love in the 1800s. Gone are the days where you pick up the apple of yer eye at a dance club where you can't even hear what they are saying (which is fine for us fine looking gentlemen, but for those uglies out there...heck, I'm sorry.) but you go to the ball to pick up the fine ladies. Granted, you have to be rich to pick these ladies up...they do not settle for no commoner.
So, here is the story of Elizabeth and her family of crazies trying to hunt down a man. Scandal ensues in various points of the story and I believe I may have heard fifteen times that I must watch the BBC Mini-Series with Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy (thanks ladies! I'll get right on that!) and it all ends...well, I won't ruin the story for you. Do yourself a favour, go and read it! It's 200 years old! It can't be a bad read if it's lasted that long!
All in all, I'm glad I read it, but I wouldn't say it's my favourite book. But it wasn't boring either.
The Morning Show - Episode #11
Bob explains his dismay of David Hasselhoff on Fear Factor.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 28, 2001
(8.37MB AVI File)
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 28, 2001
(8.37MB AVI File)
Link: Sepehr Rabti
Jan 16, 2006
http://www.sepehrrabti.com
An interesting link sent to me by Andrea - a petition for changes to the way the country handles justice matters (mainly gun related crimes).
I wholely agree...I would almost say the code of Hammurabi should come back into power.
An interesting link sent to me by Andrea - a petition for changes to the way the country handles justice matters (mainly gun related crimes).
I wholely agree...I would almost say the code of Hammurabi should come back into power.
See Ya Later Cellphone
It's official: I signed up for a regular landline the other day. As soon as that is in, no more cell phone for me.Will the change of cellphone to landline be hard? Heck yeah. Who wants to roll back on convenience? That's like taking away your microwave. Onward with innovation I say!
But...some things are just a little too expensive for convenience.
I decided against using VOIP (voice-over-ip) because they are morons when it comes to 911. Alright, I suppose it's not their fault, but you would think they would find a way to have a powered Internet connection coming into your house. Hey, if one of you out there is planning to copyright it, too late my friends, you just witnessed me coming up with the idea. ME. Get your own dang ideas.
Weekend Update:
Friday - Had a slew of people over on Friday for a feed of moose meat. It's an unwritten rule that you invite everyone you know from the North, as well as any hunters you know, as well as someone who hasn't tried moose meat yet when you have some moose meat. In most cases, you will only end up with a one ounce piece of meat yourself after all these others have their feed, but luckily, the moose heavens have graced us with more than enough meat for tonight's feed. We were also introduced to Mario Party. Oh my. I was thinking of buying the Gamecube this weekend because of it, but will hold out for the Nintedo Revolution due to its backwards compatability.
Saturday - Lazed around. Went to Carrie's for a shaker of epic proportions where I saw some people I haven't seen in awhile. Drinks were had, everyone was merry.
Sunday - Lazed around. Read a slew of stuff for my class tonight. Cannot say social cohesion reports are the most interesting out there.
The Morning Show - Episode #10
Recipe For Good Times at Work
Jan 13, 2006
If you have a report to read at work.And you're feeling glum, follow the...following instructions.
If you have an iPod in your posession:
1. Insert earbuds.
2. Click Music.
3. Click Genre
4. Click Soul.
5. Feel the vibe.
Al Green, you are genius.
If you do not have an iPod in your possession:
1. Steal someone's for awhile.
2. Throw in The Best of Al Green in your CD player.
3. Feel the vibe.
iplaying: Theme from Shaft - Isaac Hayes - Shaft Soundtrack
update: Oh my. Stevie Wonder's Superstition just came on. Only the coolest Stevie song out there as well as being very convenient on this unlucky Friday the 13th. BTW, my mom was born on Friday the 13th. Supposedly with a tail. I cannot confirm that.
Rant: No Emergency Phones
No one should step in the way of Palmer when he is pissed about getting an emergency phone for the road. They will feel the wrath which is KALIMA! (this is in fact a nod to the day of Inidiana Jones and the Temple of Doom when the guy yells out KALIMA! and then rips a guy's heart of his chest. I don't even know if Chuck Norris could hold back his roundhouse kick to achieve such a feat.)Here I am thinking that in this world of nice, civil society who want to help out each other, that I can switch to an emergency pay as you go plan so I can leave the cell phone in the car and just use it if there's an emergency (like running late getting to Vero!).
But alas, no, the cell phone companies are big money mongers. As far as I can tell, you CAN get a prepaid card with 'x' amount of minutes on it for emergencies...but the card expires after 60 days of purchase! So if I don't use them, voila, they are gone! And if I don't use them, voila, I have to buy another freaking card!
What a scam. $25 every sixty days for an emergency phone. One may think, "Hey Palmer, this isn't a bad deal when you think about it."
I suppose if you think about what you would pay in an emergency for a phone, then no, $12.50 a month ain't that big of a deal. But still...are there no TRUE emergency cell phones out there?
I'm calling out to you, my loyal readers to point me to a true emergency phone. That, in the need of an emergency, I don't really care if it costs me $5 a minute...as long as I don't have to pay anything until I use it.
This is your mission. Accept it.
iplaying: Crown of Love by The Arcade Fire - Funeral
Review: Day of the Dead
Oh George Romero, how I love thee.Part Three of the Dead Series, Trish invited us over to catch Day of the Dead.
What can be said about this film (as well as the series)?
As I did last night, I'll recount the entire series in a manner of moments. Part 1 involves the dead rising from the grave (aka zombies). Part 2 continues on with the story...the dead are taking over the cities and know one knows how it happened. There is very minor mention of scientists believing it had to do with some meteor shower occuring in Part 1 and that the rocks are making the dead rise. So the movie follows a bunch of people holing themselves up in a shopping mall.
Day of the Dead shows a bunch of scientists and army types holed up in a bunker underground. I thoroughly enjoyed this film as it showed more of what the intellectual types were doing about the problem (as opposed to Film 2 where they just followed some civilians to see what they were up to). The scientists are trying to find a way to control the zombies. But at the same time, the dead are walking in more numbers, taking over cities and countrysides. Needless to say, a lot of tension between the humans are in the movie - between the metholodical scientists and the gun-crazy army folks itching to do something other than hole themselves up inside a bunker for the rest of their days.
I enjoyed the story, I enjoyed the gore (best stuff yet!) but the dialogue (as Trish mentioned) was a little lacking. I didn't mind so much as it showed a side of the humans when they get stressed out (aka incoherent ramblings along with every swear word known to man).
Two thumbs up for this movie. I am anxiously awaiting to see the final chapter Land of the Dead which has the dead taking over all Earth.
The Morning Show - Episode #9
In this episode, Bob discusses the loss of something of Jethro's.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 27, 2001
(9.53MB AVI File)
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 27, 2001
(9.53MB AVI File)
Heck yeah!
Jan 12, 2006
Final grades:
Intro to Communications - B
Intro to English Essay Writing - A-
Awww yeah.
Status of Next Two Courses:
Hell of a lot reading to do. YIKES!
I do enjoy professors who have their own books as course material however.
Intro to Communications - B
Intro to English Essay Writing - A-
Awww yeah.
Status of Next Two Courses:
Hell of a lot reading to do. YIKES!
I do enjoy professors who have their own books as course material however.
Don't Spare Some Change
Read my post here:
http://palmer.grumpster.com/2005/11/spare-some-change.html
Then come and read the rest.
I was waiting at the bus stop a few weeks ago and lo and behold, I see the exact same guy asking for money. I really didn't realize it until he started crossing the street and I looked up from my book.
Unbelievable. I cannot begin to fathom the absurdity of this guy playing up the same 'I need money for the shelter and I'm from Toronto' routine.
This person is the sole reason that I am now not going to give to people on the street. When I feel generous, I'll go give to an organization. Sure, some may bring up the fact that with an organization you still don't know where the money is going, but heck, I would rather give to them rather than a crook playing the poor saps waiting for a bus.
Argh!
The Morning Show - Episode #8
Yes! One of my all-time favourite episodes here.
A little background so you see the hilarity in it. We had random people come onto the show before it started and read lines off a sheet of paper. They did not know what context they were in. So when Bob and Jethro assembled the show they saw what their lines were actually used for.
Classic episode here.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 23, 2001
(12.2MB MPG File)
A little background so you see the hilarity in it. We had random people come onto the show before it started and read lines off a sheet of paper. They did not know what context they were in. So when Bob and Jethro assembled the show they saw what their lines were actually used for.
Classic episode here.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 23, 2001
(12.2MB MPG File)
Archie Who?
Jan 11, 2006
Last night I had a few minutes to kill so I decided to pick up an Archie comic for Vero.I enter The Wizard's Tower in Ottawa University to find a young lady behind the counter.
Me: Hi, do you have any Archie comics?
Lady: Who?
Me: Archie? The kid with red hair? A funny comic book?
Lady: I don't think they have that here. Wait let me check. What's that name again?
Me: Archie. It's alright, I'll look around.
Lady: No, no, I'll check under 'A'. No, nothing here.
Me (upon seeing a box full of them on the floor): Hey, here's one. Here he is, Archie Andrews - the red haired kid.
Lady: Oh, it was in the back issue box.
Point of Ryan's Blog Entry today: If you are going to work in a comic book store to get some cash, please know who Archie Andrews is. It's insulting to not know.
iplaying: Double Trouble [Live] by Eric Clapton - CrossRoads Disc 4
In other news, we have managed to track down a copy of Turkish Star Wars. We shall be sharing with the appropriate parties soon enough.
The Morning Show - Episode #7
Penelope joins Bob on the show to discuss their love of the public transit system.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 22, 2001
(16.8MB MPG File)
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 22, 2001
(16.8MB MPG File)
Woe is The Weather
Oh, slumber, how nice are thee,When the pillow under mine head hits me.
But alas, no sleep is to be had,
As that noise outside the window is bad.
Some may like the sight
Of snow being removed during the night.
Upon morning's wake you will find
You can walk to your car and not fall on your behind.
But sadly one has to be in pain
When they are trying to refrain
From screaming at the stupid beeping from the snow plough
And always wondering how
They will make it through the day without a peep
Without more than a minute's sleep...
This Guy Is Crazy!
Jan 9, 2006
Vero mentioned that this picture would appear normal if it were not for the uneven fang of a pretzel I am sporting.
My question is, what do you mean I would look normal if they were both the same length? ;-)
My question is, what do you mean I would look normal if they were both the same length? ;-)
This Girl is Crazy!
Let me tell you about Vero this co-op term.
In my opinion, she is on the worst co-op term EVER. Why?
She has no Internet.
Ugh. I mean, working in a regular position without the Internet would be deadly, but a co-op position where they are notorious for being really, really boring? Gak.
I feel for her, I really do. That, coupled with the fact that the closest bus still drops her off 20 minutes away from work doesn't help my thoughts of her going through crazy snow storms only to arrive at work and sit in front of a computer which is essentially useless because of no Internet.
I want those out there that were in the workforce before the Internet to recount some tales of how the heck the day went by.
iplaying: Feel Good - Cafe Del Mar
Review: Fostex MR8-HD
What the heck is an MR8-HD?
A digital multitracker that I just picked up this past weekend.
What's a digitial multi-tracker?
The path to the future.
In all reality, it's recording equipment for musicians. So I can plug in the guitar, a mic and whatever else and give'r. It's pretty slick. Mike, Eric and I played around with it for awhile on Saturday night before the poker game at Shannon's and were impressed. It's pretty simple once you read the instructions (duh!). I can see some very fun things happening with this. One thing that will come of this is more ambition into songwriting. I used to write quite a bit, but left it a few years back...perhaps it was because I hated coming up with something and then the next day not really remembering how it went...
In other music news - Do not laugh...but I have heard that Guns N Roses WILL release Chinese Democracy this year. March, in fact.
Chez 106 had a segment on how they enjoyed this constants on January 1st - how you always think you'll go back to the gym, how you feel bloated after a week of binging, and how the new GNR album will never come out again this year.
iplaying: The Silent Man - Dream Theatre - Awake
Review: Poolhall Junkies
Jason introduced Eric to this movie who then introduced it to me.Two cues way up for this movie. Awesome, awesome, awesome.
Follow the life of a billiard genius who gets stuck in his life hustling the pool tables instead of getting into the big leagues where he's meant to be.
Highlights: Lex Luthor with hair! Also, Christopher Walken (aka Uncle Mike.) You cannot go wrong with Christopher Walken in a movie (other than James Bond: The Living Daylights).
Rent this movie now!
iplaying: Erotomania - Dream Theatre - Awake
The Morning Show - Episode #6
The first time we try something new on the Show other than talking about moose...
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 21, 2001
(6.1MB MPG File)
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 21, 2001
(6.1MB MPG File)
Status: Good!
Jan 6, 2006
Saw that I got 79% on my final essay to Intro To Communications. I put my heart and soul into that one...it was actually the first essay where I spoke about something I actually was interested in...like the state of the Internet and how TV is moving towards a non-linear based delivery method.
All in all...I'm impressed.
So, I got a B in the class. Cannot complain. Unlike Vero who tears up when she sees anything less than an A on her transcript.
Tonight's Plans: Perhaps have a beer. Clean up the house a little.
Tomorrow's Plans: Ooh...buy the recording equipment finally. Watch out world. Here we come. Also drop by Record Runner since they are having a moving out sale. Also, poker night at Shannon's where I hear he bought an XBox 360. Holy crap.
iplaying: Problem Girl by Rob Thomas
All in all...I'm impressed.
So
Tonight's Plans: Perhaps have a beer. Clean up the house a little.
Tomorrow's Plans: Ooh...buy the recording equipment finally. Watch out world. Here we come. Also drop by Record Runner since they are having a moving out sale. Also, poker night at Shannon's where I hear he bought an XBox 360. Holy crap.
iplaying: Problem Girl by Rob Thomas
The Morning Show - Episode #5
Jan 5, 2006
Pretty well in the Top 3 Morning Show episodes where we discover a horrible truth about the moose...
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 20, 2001
(13.3MB MPG File)
Freebies Under My Nose
Here's my beef with the customer service industry.They may offer you deals, but only if you know about them. Ever go online and order something and they ask for your PROMOTIONAL CODE for some savings? Heck, there must be a promotion going on somewhere.
Anyhow, I discovered through redflagdeals.com (only my fave site) that there is a site called visaperks.ca which holds all the perks that you can get while using a Visa card. Like 2 for 1 admissions to museums and whatnot.
I am the only one who was oblivious to this? This is great. Before buying anything, I will always check these sites first.
For example, I'm planning to get a VOIP Line (Voice Over Internet Protocol) which is essentially a phone but over the Internet. Cheaper than your conventional line. If I order with my VISA, I save the set up fees, the shipping fees, and get the first month free. Whoa.
iplaying: Tales of Brave Ulysses - Cream
Lyric Analysis: Living on a Prayer
In a new (potentially ongoing) segment, let's do some lyric analysis.Taken from listening to some Bon Jovi with Trish this morning over a muffin, I noticed the following line in Living on a Prayer by Bon Jovi (which may or may not be Pam and my favourite Bon Jovi tune).
"Working for her man, she brings home her pay for love - for love"
Alright, we all know what this song is supposedly about. Tommy and Gina, working hard to make a living but they have each other. Awwww.
But what the heck is this? Gina is working for her man, bringing home her pay for love.
Is Tommy secretly a prostitute? I mean...who comes home to pay for love?
This absurb revelation was brought you to by Trish and Ryan.
iplaying: Wrapping Paper - Cream
The Devil and Me
Let's talk DVD TV Series for a moment.
We all know they are addictive. But what's the drawback? They are expensive. Let's take James' comment about Season 4 of 24 being $65. Let's say there are 20 episodes - that's $3.25 an episode.
Is it worth it? To some people, yes. Why not? You don't to wait every week to catch a new episode. That's a definite bonus. The concept of 'when you want to watch TV' is a great one.
I personally find it hard to justify that much money on a TV series that I will only watch once. Maybe twice. It's like Friends. I think it would be cool to buy the series of Friends...but will I end up popping them into the DVD player all the time to watch them? Heck no. I'm always more prone to stopping on a channel saying "Hey, it's Friends!" instead of saying "Hey, I'm bored, let's put on a episode of Friends!" I bought Season One of Alias because I had missed out on it...but after that, I'm done with buying the series because I caught them on TV. I would imagine that ONE DAY in the future (like 5+ years) I would like to go back and watch them all.
So here are some simple ways you can save money and catch up on your (new) favourite TV series if you haven't already done so:
We all know they are addictive. But what's the drawback? They are expensive. Let's take James' comment about Season 4 of 24 being $65. Let's say there are 20 episodes - that's $3.25 an episode.
Is it worth it? To some people, yes. Why not? You don't to wait every week to catch a new episode. That's a definite bonus. The concept of 'when you want to watch TV' is a great one.
I personally find it hard to justify that much money on a TV series that I will only watch once. Maybe twice. It's like Friends. I think it would be cool to buy the series of Friends...but will I end up popping them into the DVD player all the time to watch them? Heck no. I'm always more prone to stopping on a channel saying "Hey, it's Friends!" instead of saying "Hey, I'm bored, let's put on a episode of Friends!" I bought Season One of Alias because I had missed out on it...but after that, I'm done with buying the series because I caught them on TV. I would imagine that ONE DAY in the future (like 5+ years) I would like to go back and watch them all.
So here are some simple ways you can save money and catch up on your (new) favourite TV series if you haven't already done so:
- Download them off the Internet: You don't have to be too tech savvy to know how to download a TV show off the next. Pros: Heck, it's free. Cons: Chances are, you'll have to watch it on your computer monitor unless you're tech savvy and have your computer hooked up to your TV/Projector. Sometimes the picture jitters and you have to pause and playback (this may only be on my computer for all I know), you have to wait awhile for it download (let's say one episode of Alias takes a day to download during peak popularity. Peak meaning, if no one has it anymore (like an old episode of Thundercats) you ain't getting it fast. Also, you don't have the sweet menus or special features usually.
- Join Zip.ca - Joe has shown how Zip.ca does great, great things for building up a DVD collection if you have a DVD burner. For a modest monthly fee, you can receive six DVDs at a time and when you are done, you mail them back (free) and then they send you six more. This may be their ultra-good package...there may be smaller ones out there, but Joe loves it and he always tells me about how he has quite a few TV series on DVD right now due to his sweet DVD burner. In fact, I have borrowed his Stargate Series, although my DVD player sucks and it jitters all the time when trying to watch them. This is the fault of my player, not his DVDs. Pros: Heck, depending on if you can watch/burn more DVDs than it costs to rent them in a month, you come out on top. Cons: I would assume the hassle of mailing back is a con (although a small one), as well the whole burning process if you were going to make a copy. Small cons though. Very minor.
- Rent them - Good old Blockbuster lets you rent movies. And TV shows. I don't know much about this? Pros: Cheap! Cons: How long do they allow you to keep a disc?
- Borrow them - You know...there are a LOT of people out there that have TV series already on DVD, so why not hit them up for some goodness? Up for borrowing from this guy is Alias Season One, as well as the first two seasons of SeaLab: 2021. I'm finished watching them, and all they do is sit there and gather dust. I believe Alias was recently on loan for the past year to various people. Just ask around and you never know how many people have Lost: Season One on DVD for you to borrow.
Review: Smallville Season 2
Jan 4, 2006
Three posts in one night. I'm on a roll.So...Smallville Season 2. I watched 23 episodes (42 minutes each) over the Christmas holidays. 6 of those in one sitting. I love holidays.
What do I hate?
TV Shows on DVD. They are the devil. You can't get away from them.
There should be the following label on TV Shows on DVD:
Do not even think of having a social life after watching a few episodes.
Anyhow, onto Season Two.
I enjoyed Season Two more than the first one. They introduced some more powers to Supes, as well as a chock load of origin story. I think I enjoy Smallville for the fact that I never read the Superman comics so I really didn't know half the stuff they are talking about, and I sure don't remember it coming up in Lois and Clark. However, I'm taking it with a grain of salt as I heard they don't stick to the story in some parts of the series.
I like how they went away from the X-Filesish stories of how the town brought out freaks, but focussed more on other unexplained phenomena. Also, I found Lex had less of a role in this season, but there was more of Lionel Luthor. I've watched the season premiere of Season 3 and I think I like what they are doing with Lex. They gotta make him bad sometime soon.
Two thumbs up.
iplaying: I Ain't Got You - The Yardbirds
Final Exam Result - Intro to Communications
Dang.
Just found out I got 63% on my final exam for Intro to Comm course. I thought I knew that course like the back of my hand.
What the heck is that on the back of my hand?
Gotta go.
iplaying: Bernard Jenkins - John Mayall & Eric Clapton from my new Crossroads box set which I stumbled upon at the used CD store for $50. Sweet, sweet sounds. I'll consider this a gift from Nanny for Christmas! Thanks!
Just found out I got 63% on my final exam for Intro to Comm course. I thought I knew that course like the back of my hand.
What the heck is that on the back of my hand?
Gotta go.
iplaying: Bernard Jenkins - John Mayall & Eric Clapton from my new Crossroads box set which I stumbled upon at the used CD store for $50. Sweet, sweet sounds. I'll consider this a gift from Nanny for Christmas! Thanks!
The Morning Show - Episode #4
Now that the holidays are over and done with, on with another episode!This episode has Bill show us what happened when he tried to wake the moose. Ouch.
Download here.
Original Airdate: November 15, 2001
(20.8 MB AVI File)
For Sale: XBox
Seeing that I received an XBox last year for Christmas and have used it a whole 5 times, I am selling it. Sorry to the parents who bought this for me last year and I didn't get much use out of it.I will sell it for $125 pending the results of my attempt to return it to Wal-Mart without a receipt. Turns out that if I returned with my receipt, they wouldn't take it because it was from November 2004. But someone mentioned that I should try and return it anyhow without the receipt...you never know.
It is the XBox Holiday pack so it comes with one controller, and a double game: Some Tennis Game (Top Spin?) and Amped 2 (Snowboarding Game)
iplaying: Screecher by Jakalope
Top Albums of 2005
Jan 3, 2006
Trish Plamondon - Fromage de Noel: Never has there been a greater Christmas compilation compiled. Let me tell you...I know now pretty well every band who has made a Christmas song...and then some! What's up with the song called Backdoor Santa though? Random sidenote: Found the old record player at Christmas time and hauled it out and found Bing Crosby's Christmas on vinyl. There's nothing like a vinyl. Mom prefers Perry Como, however Dad says (and I quote): "Perry Como sucks." Never have more eloquent words been uttered by Dad.Here's a review of the double album over at Artoos'. Check out the December 12 entry.
favesong: Mele Kalikimaka - Bing Crosby
The Trews - Den of Thieves: Ever hear one of those albums that don't resonate with you at first, but you give it a few more listens and then it becomes one of your favourites? That is Den of Thieves for you. A little different than the hard hitting rocking of the previous album, but this is a more solid album.favesong: Ishmael and Maggie
Our Lady Peace - Healthy in Paranoid Times: Yet another one of those albums that take a few listens to get into. Everyone has been waiting a LONG time for this one since Gravity and I cannot say that I am dissapointed. I am constantly returning to this album to fall in love with more and more songs. It doesn't hurt to see them live and have them show a different side to the music.favesong: Will The Future Blame Us?
Nickelback - All The Right Reasons: Here's one that hits you hard off the bat and doesn't stop. After the first listen, I felt that Nickelback had done it once again. They are constantly getting better and better with their albums. One may argue that they are just playing the same songs over and over again, but no one said that was a bad thing, right AC/DC?
favesong: Animal
Billy Corgan - The Future Embrace: Billy's first solo record comes out strong after a weak, weak presence with Zwan. And in a weird twist of fate, the day this album was released was the day that he announced that the Smashing Pumpkins will be reincarnated. Joy! No real Pumpkinesque tunes on this one, but it is enjoyable.
favesong: Mina Loy (L.O.H.)
Dream Theatre - Octavarium: Upon preparing for this summer's Gigantour, I decided to pick up the new album by Dream Theatre after Vero was telling me that Dream Theatre kicked ass. Well, let me tell you metal lovers, they do not disappoint. Complexity is Octavarium summed up into one word.
Foo Fighters - In Your Honour: Suprisingly, this is my first Foo Fighters album. Will it be my last? Heck no! This double album (comprising of one side electric, one side acoustic) shows that the Foos have an eclectic musical talent and know the ways around a riff. I'll start picking up their back catalogue (although I must admit their first album is not the best).
favesong: In Your Honour
Audioslave - Out of Exile: I cannot say that I've listened to this as much as I did the first album, but it is still a great effort put out by Audioslave.
Coldplay - X&Y: Took me awhile to get really into this one, but have grown to love it as much as their other releases. I enjoy the sounds of Coldplay and file this album into the 'light some candles and have some wine' folder.
favesong: Twisted Logic
Nine Inch Nails - With Teeth: Can NIN beat their last release (The Fragile) with this one? No. Not in my opinion at least. I would actually say it's my least favourite NIN album. But does that make it a bad album? Hell no! It starts off with some classic, classic NINesque tunes and then descends into more rocking than usual. But rocking in a different sort that we're not used to with NIN.
favesong: All the Love in the World
Theory of a Deadman - Gasoline: If there is a number #1 to this list, this is it. Theory of a Deadman have blown their previous release out of the water with this one. Who would have thought they had some ballads in them? A top notch album which can be seen by my Top 50 most played list in my iPod. I highly recommend this album.
favesong: In The Middle
Elektra Soundtrack - Cannot say that I've seen the movie since I've heard it was so bad (which is disappointing to hear since I dug Daredevil) but the soundtrack is amazing. I constantly return to this soundtrack as much as the Crow.
favesong: Photograph (12 Stones)
What I Learned from Hearst
Jan 2, 2006
- 'Kodak' is French for camera
- 9:30 is too late to get into the bar on New Year's Eve without being crushed inside a hallway. Claustrophobes beware.
- Always bring backups of music for the long ride home in case your iPod wishes to crap out on you (note to all: At this moment after the trip is done, the iPod is now working as I was pressing the wrong combination of buttons to reset it. Too bad I can't return it in hopes of getting the video iPod!)
- When getting into a hot tub in the middle of the winter out on a deck, don't forget your toque. Also, don't bother going out. It's really really cold.
- Always have a backup wake up call instead of the wind up clock.
- Always think before you say anything in French. REALLY think about it. You're trying to make an impression here. Eric put this in a way that explains it all...when you want someone to pass you the pineapple, don't say "Je suis un anana!"
