iPad and More

Timing could not be better, nor worse, today the new Apple tablet came out the iPad. So I’ve been meaning to write, update and catch up everything on this blog clean up some things and various other things.

So on to matters, first off, the iPad. I think it is a start but for right now, it’s just a kindle with more functions. There are lacking features and then there are some ground breaking ones. Let’s start with the good go to the bad and then move on.

The good:
The iPad’s user interaction with the device allows the use of already stock apps available from the iPhone and iPod Touch line and now there are more with the new sdk and larger screen. The large high resolution screen is very nice and the update to connect the device to use for presentations is going to make it a breeze to use. I’m not so sure what else to say to that though.

The bad:
Like the first iPhone there is not GPS so where is the next generation use of location? We are in an era of mobile computing and this is supposed to be our next step? Why can we have a simple GPS chip in the computer? Where is the use of apps that rely on location? As our esteemed professors @academicdave and @therefore are always pushing the limits on and asking the question of location. This is the perfect device right? It really doesn’t feel as such that I would want this.

Also where are USB ports or various other ports I don’t want to use a dock connector to be able to access the device especially if I am needing to do various other things. I don’t want to have to go through the mystery app store process for simple interface things and then be rejected etc. I’m not so sure what to take on only having a wireless gimped bluetooth and no real hard ports.

I don’t agree with everything entirely being up to one manufacturer. We have run into many problems before with Apple and their problems this is one of their many products we are starting to see have an effect with consumer funding the second and third generation of products. Looking at where the iPad sits now I can see in a year a GPS chip being added, a couple of external ports or adaptor ports being added just like what was done with the iPhone becoming the iPhone 3G and 3Gs.

As much as I love Apple I don’t think we should have to deal with everything they put out as great. Much greater dissension is coming from loyal followers (of which I am one) and I feel the curse of Microsoft coming. I sometimes look at a Windows feature and wonder why; and then I wonder if Apple had taken that idea and added their polish to it wouldn’t it be great. Why can’t the iPad have handwriting input? I know there is a cool brushes app, and I’m sure some developer is going to come along and make something cool; but why can’t I get it out of the box as that?

Finally, I would have liked the tablet really to have run multiple applications at once. I don’t like having to work in JUST Pages or JUST Numbers I would rather switch between the two; especially if this is going to replace my laptop. I would still rather get a small netbook and give up screen size for a keyboard ports and various other things than a glorified large iPod Touch.
This is not the device that is going to change everything really but only be the pixel to point what is next. I think we are going to see the rise in Android and HTC’s devices next and see Apple grasping its breath to catch up in the mobile device market. At least that is what I can see from glimpses of CES and HTC’s misdirection campaign going awry.

Let’s see what time hold and we’ll see what happens next.

On to other stuff:

I’m also in the process of building a robot for fun and we’ll see what it does if you have any suggestions of what it should do we’ll take a look and see if it is something worth us doing. It is a project I’ve been needing to get around for a very long time and well let’s see how it goes. I hope you like what we’ve got so far. I’ll have more pictures
up as we go and thanks also to help from @johntron who is helping very much in teaching and learning with me.

Finally the big project of the year and I hope to continue with. We have high hopes to take this big prize at the first North Dallas Hooptie event for the 24 Hours of LeMons race. We are team Grassy Knoll Society. More information about the team the event and everything else is available on that blog. I will say that we are looking for sponsors and are willing to entertain almost anything at this moment.

I hope that catches you up and later days.

Ask yourself What’s Next?

As some of you may know I spent the last two months in Peru; this explains the lack of posting. I wish I could justify as this being an excuse but it really isn’t a good one.

The time I spent there was, of course, amazing and one that will continue to challenge what I do and how I think. There are a couple of things that came about from me being where I was and having the time to meditate in some of the most amazing places in the world.

1. Time – it is relative. Not at all in the scientific sense of Einstein but more in the sense of how you carry your self through your life. At times things seem desperate and things seem to not be going well or the right way; there is always something new on the horizon. You have the power and the ability to make your own decisions to get to that new whateveritmaybe. I came back and now wonder what is going to happen next and well I know there is something waiting for me but I don’t know what. I am okay with this only because I know I have the choice to set a long term goal and aim for it and see what comes along. I also know that this goal will continuously evolve as I learn new things and see and experience something different that challenges this goal.

2. People – There are some relationships that are never meant to be and there are some that are going to continue to grow and thrive no matter what happens. The relationships you keep will help you grow and those you don’t it’s okay, life will go on and you can always have the choice to make new friends. Always be willing to open up a little bit; you’d be surprised on who you find sitting next to you and how your lives may be connected. This is always great with what we have now; social networks are the greatest things we can become a part of. There are things that they create that are bad; but the best part is it allows us to connect disaplines that we never thought nor never would have had the opportunity to connect before. Always explore who is around you and always keep your friends close they will get you through those tough times and in the good make the times great.

3. Experience – You will be traveling for some one else or working for some one else but really the some one else is going to push you as well and some times you’re there for you as well. This doesn’t mean don’t be a team player this only means that you have to keep any eye out for yourself as well. There will be times where the relationships for the team are going to be strained but at the same time remember take some time for you on your own. This time will allow you to clear your head and allow you to think clearly for the team every once in a while. It’s just like any other relationship; time apart makes you realize what you have for each other it is the guy’s/ girl’s night out or that shopping trip or that bike ride the climb whatever it may be that clears the head. Take time for your self and you will be stronger for everyone else.

I know those things aren’t new or something you’ve not heard before but take some time and meditate on your own in a clear space you’d be surprised how much better you’ll feel on your outlook especially if you’re feeling trapped in a box of life right now. Just remember there are long term goals out there and it might be time to look at another path to get there.

Sorry I don’t have any cool stories from Peru, I do have them but they are better for a cup of coffee if you find me. I will share some pictures though…

Scott Dee our amazing photographer took pictures which can be found here. You can also copy and paste this link:http://flickr.com/Scott_Dee into a new browser window.

Later Days,

Ask yourself What's Next?

As some of you may know I spent the last two months in Peru; this explains the lack of posting. I wish I could justify as this being an excuse but it really isn’t a good one.

The time I spent there was, of course, amazing and one that will continue to challenge what I do and how I think. There are a couple of things that came about from me being where I was and having the time to meditate in some of the most amazing places in the world.

1. Time – it is relative. Not at all in the scientific sense of Einstein but more in the sense of how you carry your self through your life. At times things seem desperate and things seem to not be going well or the right way; there is always something new on the horizon. You have the power and the ability to make your own decisions to get to that new whateveritmaybe. I came back and now wonder what is going to happen next and well I know there is something waiting for me but I don’t know what. I am okay with this only because I know I have the choice to set a long term goal and aim for it and see what comes along. I also know that this goal will continuously evolve as I learn new things and see and experience something different that challenges this goal.

2. People – There are some relationships that are never meant to be and there are some that are going to continue to grow and thrive no matter what happens. The relationships you keep will help you grow and those you don’t it’s okay, life will go on and you can always have the choice to make new friends. Always be willing to open up a little bit; you’d be surprised on who you find sitting next to you and how your lives may be connected. This is always great with what we have now; social networks are the greatest things we can become a part of. There are things that they create that are bad; but the best part is it allows us to connect disaplines that we never thought nor never would have had the opportunity to connect before. Always explore who is around you and always keep your friends close they will get you through those tough times and in the good make the times great.

3. Experience – You will be traveling for some one else or working for some one else but really the some one else is going to push you as well and some times you’re there for you as well. This doesn’t mean don’t be a team player this only means that you have to keep any eye out for yourself as well. There will be times where the relationships for the team are going to be strained but at the same time remember take some time for you on your own. This time will allow you to clear your head and allow you to think clearly for the team every once in a while. It’s just like any other relationship; time apart makes you realize what you have for each other it is the guy’s/ girl’s night out or that shopping trip or that bike ride the climb whatever it may be that clears the head. Take time for your self and you will be stronger for everyone else.

I know those things aren’t new or something you’ve not heard before but take some time and meditate on your own in a clear space you’d be surprised how much better you’ll feel on your outlook especially if you’re feeling trapped in a box of life right now. Just remember there are long term goals out there and it might be time to look at another path to get there.

Sorry I don’t have any cool stories from Peru, I do have them but they are better for a cup of coffee if you find me. I will share some pictures though…

Scott Dee our amazing photographer took pictures which can be found here. You can also copy and paste this link:http://flickr.com/Scott_Dee into a new browser window.

Later Days,

It’s been a while and I need a trip

So again I need more than 140 charecters and well this is the best place for it. After lots of thought of what exactly needs to be said it’s just one thing, keep life simple.

It’s been about 3 years since my car was stolen (it will be exactly 3 years in May). In that time I’ve managed to do some pretty impressive things on paper that does not mean that I am by any stretch of the imagination in a position where I am completely on my own. At this point I should be where some of my friends are. Is that path the same I should have taken, I really don’t think so.

As unhappy as I am and as bitter as I can taste I still am very happy too. With the way things are shaping up for some of my friends and the country around me I am very happy for the things I have. I remember everyday that there is more to life than just having that truck or having that perfect life. The things I am the happiest for are the things I have around me; a great family and an amazing set of friends. I am reminded every day of them being there for me and I am so grateful.

So the trip; it’s been two weeks of staggered spring break so to speak and neither one of them am I able to actually take a break from. The one that was my work’s spring break my academic life went into high gear; the week of my academic spring break I ahve so many projects I’m not even able to breathe. I WANT OUT! In the situation I’m in right now I should be allowed at least one day, one weekday, off and hit the road and travel to some remote part of the state and just relax clear my head and see Texas. I love this state and always will return in the end but for now it’s feeling like a prison. I am tired of Dallas, I need to get out for a couple of days and feel fresh air and sun. I need to get out. Ideally there are a couple of people separately I’d like to take with me and\or go see but that will be for another time and another day.

Best thing to take out of life right now in what seems to be the toughest times, be thankful for what you have. Be extremely good to your friends and family, those are the things that matter most in life and will be there longer than anything else for you. Finally be simple, there is no point in being put in a place only to compromise your self to unhappiness.

Climb on and be your self.

Later Days,

###

It's been a while and I need a trip

So again I need more than 140 charecters and well this is the best place for it. After lots of thought of what exactly needs to be said it’s just one thing, keep life simple.

It’s been about 3 years since my car was stolen (it will be exactly 3 years in May). In that time I’ve managed to do some pretty impressive things on paper that does not mean that I am by any stretch of the imagination in a position where I am completely on my own. At this point I should be where some of my friends are. Is that path the same I should have taken, I really don’t think so.

As unhappy as I am and as bitter as I can taste I still am very happy too. With the way things are shaping up for some of my friends and the country around me I am very happy for the things I have. I remember everyday that there is more to life than just having that truck or having that perfect life. The things I am the happiest for are the things I have around me; a great family and an amazing set of friends. I am reminded every day of them being there for me and I am so grateful.

So the trip; it’s been two weeks of staggered spring break so to speak and neither one of them am I able to actually take a break from. The one that was my work’s spring break my academic life went into high gear; the week of my academic spring break I ahve so many projects I’m not even able to breathe. I WANT OUT! In the situation I’m in right now I should be allowed at least one day, one weekday, off and hit the road and travel to some remote part of the state and just relax clear my head and see Texas. I love this state and always will return in the end but for now it’s feeling like a prison. I am tired of Dallas, I need to get out for a couple of days and feel fresh air and sun. I need to get out. Ideally there are a couple of people separately I’d like to take with me and\or go see but that will be for another time and another day.

Best thing to take out of life right now in what seems to be the toughest times, be thankful for what you have. Be extremely good to your friends and family, those are the things that matter most in life and will be there longer than anything else for you. Finally be simple, there is no point in being put in a place only to compromise your self to unhappiness.

Climb on and be your self.

Later Days,

###

Inspired from a 5.9a

y’know it’s been an amazing two weeks……

I guess part of it is me working out again and hitting the wall. Rock Climbing for me for some it’s running but that sheer exertion for clearing your mind. 

 

So I was sitting in class about two weeks ago and going into the last class I was a little annoyed. Then as the presentations started to unfurl. I saw how passionate people were about their subjects. I also realized how hard it is to get someone to take the bigger picture apart. So still I am in awe there is hope out there. This may be a disjointed post more so than usual but it’s only because my brain is in sheer awe right now. 

 

Watching The West Wing makes me realize how much I love my job and what I do for real. I know it’s one of those things where we all will lean on each other. There is no way just one person can do it alone and there has to be that person holding part of the rope for the other and the other and so on down the line. It’s also amazing how much of every one’s life mirrors the other. I look at the structure we have for major offices and there is a CEO and then from him down there are a board of directors and the CEO has his staff and chief assistant and further down the line. Same thing with a movie set. there is the Director and Executive Producer. The Producer serves as the Chief of Staff and then from there on down the line the A.D’s are all senior staff so is the D.P. and as always the face of it all the Public Relations. As far as the board of directors that’s more of a cabinet thing than there is in the movie business but ya’ll get the point. 

 

So as I said I’m in awe and you know there is that feeling you’ll know it when you see it. Right now I know it and I’ve seen it and I see it more and more. I know how Jon writes and i know he’s good at what he does. I’ll be there for as long as I can when I can. So in the mean time just hang on for the ride. 

 

Just remember find a release and the rest will come. It doesn’t matter that for the time being you can’t be there just do what you can to get your mind out of the rat race, Run, Climb, Drive, Walk, Play. 

 

Later Days, 

need to soon….

     So it’s been 5 years since my little red Acura was stolen. Well it will be two years in May. So now it’s gotten to the point where I really do need to buy another car to get me around especially with all the things I’ve got going. I am so beyond lost at what I want to get. At first I was like well I’ll just start looking for another small car; but then with all the work I started doing and looking back to what I always loved I want to get a truck.

     So now I’m lost, as gas prices go up and the U.S. looks to re-shift it’s economy as well as looks to move itself away from oil I’m re-considering a lot. I do own a trailer and as I wrote I’ve been considering the fact that all trucks essentially take E85 or ethanol. So….. what should I do? Well on top of looking at trucks if one hasn’t noticed it’s gotten even more confusing lately since there are so many choices and trim levels and other things available with trucks now. It’s like buying a big car for the most part; all the same features and amenities are offered from heated seats to rear seat entertainment.  I’ve now shifted away from my first thought of a Toyota, I just cannot stand where and how that company is going. I understand wanting to be where they are all companies should strive for it. Though once you get that big stuff starts falling through the cracks and that leads to bad things. So I’ve settled between GMC and Dodge.

    The Dodge has the advantage of giving a small yet more powerful engine and a manual transmission. The only deal is that the gas mileage is terrible and the amenities aren’t as nice as what is also available. On the other hand the GMC is really nice and offers great gas mileage takes both. The only downside to the GMC is that the transmission only comes in one flavor of automatic.

    I really miss having a manual transmission car, I was riding with a friend the other day who also has a manual transmission car and well. I need to re-teach him a thing or two about how he drives it. Especially since he is starting to open that car up a little. Shifting should be smooth and a work of passion not aggression. When driving a manual transmission you have to want it not have it out of necessity.

     So I ask you this what should I lean towards? Are there any options I haven’t looked at [do not mention Japanese or Ford] as far as getting somethng to pull haul and have a man. trans.?

Later Days,

creativity

There’s an HP commercial on TV right now that’s been out for a while starring Gwen Stefani. Who ever conceived that commercial needs to be given a lot of credit out there for best explaining an artist.

    Right now I have this project that is keeping me up. I was hoping to have my video up soon, but I guess I’ll have tomorrow to post it. Our professor asked us to create a video that takes our creative process and show the anticipation of it. That sounds all well and good but like I said you’d have to see the video first. Creativity doesn’t come with a warning of some sort it just flows. Currently I’m just writing this blog posting. Sure, I’ve given it some thought but for the most part I’ve been sitting here just mulling over where I’ve managed to put my car keys from two nights ago; in which case over writing this sentence I managed to find them in the most logical spot they would be.

    So to the reader of this posting, I pose this question: How do you define the anticipation of your creative process; does it just come to you or do you do something to make it happen? 

Later Days,