thecolor, subjectivity life...

my blog has moved

2008-04-28T09:29:00.003-07:00

I have moved my blog to http://blog.cypher-sec.org

I've decided to host my blog using wordpress so I have more control over it, style, functionality, etc.

Thanks for reading my blog at blogger.com. Please modify your links and or sign up for the rss feed from that page. If you are subscribed to my feedburner feed, that feed has changed to the new location, so you do not have to change that rss information.

Thanks and I hope you continue reading.

~TC

sorry about the rss title error...

2008-04-18T12:15:00.003-07:00

Sorry to all of you who are subscribed to my rss about the feed subject header. I was formerly mycellwatch.com and as of losing that domain, I've simply redirected my feed to my individual blog.

I've changed the feed subject, and you should see it as: "Use to be MCW - for now it's cypher-sec.org..." from now on (or at least until I do something else) and or it's been that way for a while and you've gotten use to the fact that it's changed. :) I'll shorten it to just the domain later.

I will be moving my blog onto my own server later at www.cypher-sec.org/blog

No need to change your links unless you are directly linked to http://cypher-sec.blogspot.com

If you are subscribed to the feed, it should continue coming from the same email address and there is no need to do anything.

If you are linked (bookmarked), you can change that at any time to http://blog.cypher-sec.org or http://www.cypher-sec.org/blog as I will begin using that permanently once all is transitioned over. :)

Thanks for your understanding and as much as I hate to lose your readership, I understand if my individual blog is no longer of interest. :(

On the plus side, even if you have multiple blogs or rss' to read, at least mine is infrequent and less (in your face) at this time. :) So, you don't have to really unsubscribe if you don't want to. ;)

Thanks for reading,
~TC

PocketCaster vs Qik Live Mobile Streaming...

2008-04-13T13:37:00.005-07:00

Well, I can't really do a VS.. but the title makes you look. :)

Reason I can't do a comparison at this point is 'cause no matter how many times I sign up for QIK, I get the same, "we'll let you know when were ready for you' type of statement. It's actually kind of annoying. So, I went with Comvu for software called "PocketCaster." PocketCaster is a similar service that allows you to stream from your mobile device (in my case the Nokia N95-4 NAM).

So far, it's a killer app. Simple install, simple usage, and (for a live mobile stream where most devices are not capable of that yet), it's not to shabby. :)

I can stream using my front cam (the smaller lower res one) or the main (back) cam which still seems to be compressed for the upload, but again, still cool and convenient.

Again, it's LIVE, not pre-recorded! :) I have all the connectivity options, wi-fi, standard cell data connection, GPRS, 3G, EDGE, HSDPA as well as the ability to store the file locally or remotely for that "pre-recorded" archive. :)

Quality options range from 24kbps to 160kbps, of course I set mine to the highest.

It also has a GPS location functionality, which I assume will let viewers know exactly where you are. Now that rocks. My first test was indoors, so I did not bother testing the location function, but will let you know how that goes.

My second, third and fourth tests were outside on a walk from home and after viewing the archived footage and hear/rather seeing the IMs my friend in the NL was sending me (while I was narrating and strolling home in the rain) touring them a bit around Seattle, were, "this is just amazing!!" Streaming over wi-fi was great at home, but over 3G and EDGE it worked beautifully, which is a nice thing considering a walk down the street on a router (wi-fi) does not get you very far (no hand off like a cell tower). Thusly I was very happy to see how well it did over standard cell connectivity. :)

The one thing I wish was added was the "always ask" feature the N95 typically uses for data connectivity... as you have to manually set your connection option, which can be annoying to have to go in and change if you're not near wi-fi.

Over all, my first few tests are way cool and super fun. Now, if I could only get an account and software for quick for a better comparison!

Windows Media Player:

I know this guy...

2008-04-11T20:29:00.002-07:00

...and this guy sucks! He's rude, insensitive, treats others like dirt, seems to care only for himself, and will seemingly go to know end to make sure things go his way, "or else!".

I know this guy, and he sucks!

Nokia N95-4 8GB NAM review...

2008-04-02T07:42:00.004-07:00

This is a great product, superior to the iPhone by far!!

I've wanted an N95 since the first version came out, and I'm happy it's only better with the newest NAM version with a built in 8GB card.

I would have appreciated an included expansion card slot, as I will quickly use the 8GB if not for applications for music and movies, but it's acceptable.

I am very happy that it has all the needed freqs for the US both voice and data, which really make the experience of making calls or using the net all that much better.

The GPS freakin' rocks!.. to bad the free 6 month plan that shows on the box is really only 1 day. I'm not willing to pay for GPS navigation since most cheaper units come with it for free. So, I turned to a better java application to replace Nokia's pay GPS (not once by the way, but monthly) called amAze GPS, it has all that Nokia's "maps app" offers and more.

The 5MP camera and near DVD quality video is the best, no other all in one device offers something that high (yet).

The video out is nice, although it seems to show at the phones resolution, not ntsc resolution or higher (320x240 I believe, so the images are jagged or pixelated on TV)... so I might use it for a full on movie, but it's nice for surfing on a bigger screen or watching things like YouTube, (included) etc. where my computer (already attached to the HD TV is not on, not sure how that would happen. ;)

I could go on and on, but over all, Nokia has always provided an excellent working and well built product, and I'm VERY happy I went with their newest N95-4 8GB NAM. I don't know what cause me to stray.

As for mobileCityOnline, their service was great. I admit, I had been burned online before, so was skeptical when I placed the "pre-order" since their orders kept getting pushed back by the manufacturer or shipped in smaller quantities, but the customer service was great in respect to keeping me informed and the natural process of their specific business with outside manufacturers... so that made me feel good. As for their shipping, can't say it was more than prompt. I paid an extra $10 bucks for next day service, and as soon as the device came in their warehouse, sure enough it was next day I got it!!! Now that is excellent!

I would recommend this product and mobileCityOnline for it's purchase. Hey, it saved me several hundred from the manufacture or Nokia store price! :)

amAze gps for my N95

2008-03-29T23:32:00.003-07:00

Well, even though the box my new N95 came in advertised 6 months free nav, it lied :( I got a day.

So, (as always,) not desiring to pay a stupid license fee, 'specially for a typically free app when hardware is purchased, I set out to find just that, a free app that gave me nav for free (not just the sat
connectivity feature).)
Well, gotta love google and O.S. developers, 'cause with one search, "free N95 gps app" I came across amAze gps.

The first nice thing of course is it's free!

Second, it's java so it works on more than just Symbian and with external (bluetooth) gps as well as the phones built in gps.

Third (bonus) it has built in / again free voice nav, something my first thought for an alternative "Google Maps" lacks, but has sat./hybrid mapping, COOL!!

Fourth it has the sat./hybrid maps, like what Google Maps has but the built in N95 maps app does not. It does use your cellular or broadband connection to grab the maps, but most of us with this kind of toy have an unlimited data plan or use neighboring wi-fi from the sidewalk as we navigate our way down the street anyhow. ;)

Fifth it has a "gps location weather app"! Way cool! It's kinda like lookin' at your fancy in car, outside temp info and it's location based, so no more guessin' the zip or city. ;) Like that's hard, but also a functionality option anyhow.

Those are only a few of the awesome things this powerful yet small app can do in addition to the basic gps/find your way/navigation things any standard gps should do but without all the extra costs involved with buying voices and maps, sheesh!

Fun, Fun!!

Nokia N95-4 8GB NAM (North American Model) shipping...

2008-03-17T16:34:00.003-07:00

Well, I finally heard from MobileCityOnline that my device is in stock and should be shipping within the day.

I'm way stoked as I feel this is (in my opinion) the best multi-purpose device out there yet.

Multi-purpose is for those of us that hate to carry more than one device around to do most everything.

This Nokia N95-4 8GB is not just a phone... it's a full on PDA, in addition to having a well qualified 5MP camera, near DVD quality video recorder, GPS with A-synch capability, music and movie capability, wi-fi, GSM/GPRS/3G/HSDPA connectivity along with the standards like bluetooth A2DP for full stereo music control and entertainment, a normal headphone jack (not the stupid micro jack you see in most phones now a day), an accelerometer, and so much more.

Lastly (before I give this device a serious run over when I receive it and review the heck out of it)... Nokia's proven this line of devices 3 times over (being the 4th in the "NSeries") as well as many other excellent products, and are so ahead of the game in SDK capabilities we can only imagine the possibilities of what we get and what lies ahead!

STP 2007

2008-03-09T15:35:00.007-07:00

I've never posted my achivement of having done the STP (Seattle to Portland Bicycle Ride) 7 times. :) It just hit me that the 2007 ride was my 7th time. :)

So, I figured I'd share that with everyone who's interested. :)

Here is a link to view it in Google Earth.

Here is a link to view it in Google Maps

And here is a view of it in an iFrame. :)

View Larger Map

I just love that I was able to record it last year with my new Garmin Edge205 GPS. :)

This year, I will attempt to record it with my new Nokia N95-4 NAM 8GB!!! Oh, am I excited!

I love theinquirer they are so informative!

2008-03-03T12:27:00.004-08:00

This news in from: theinquirer.net

It appears there is some confusion who actually owns the rights to a small mobile phone you can wear on your wrist.

Hmm, is it Dick Tracy, or Michale Knight (perhaps his employer F.L.A.G.), no one really knows.

But... you can read more about this at theinquirer.net

Starbucks Free Wi-Fi...

2008-03-03T12:23:00.002-08:00

Update... based on discussions with a few different Baristas... (although not totally educated on how this change over will work)... several employees have indicated they feel the "card" StarBucks is referring to is the coffee card, not a Credit Card.

This is good news, as I'd gladly re-fill my coffee card (if not already filled) as opposed to signing up for a StarBucks C.C. to get 2 hours of free wi-fi. :)(not gunna happen).

Free Wi-Fi in the brew for Starbucks

2008-02-12T12:52:00.001-08:00

StarBucks changes the face of public-access Wi-Fi by picking AT&T to be its new in-store service provider over T-Mobile.Of course, I'm sure you have to be an AT&T customer already (this excludes wireless only customers, asI know I can't get on an AT&T wi-fi connection at the airport with just my wireless account)... but the 2 hour deal is nice, as I know I drink coffee there... (at least I think I do). ;) I have no problem filling up the bazillion plastic cards I have from StarBucks (or their counter jockies will just push one on me, I'm sure,) "Would you like 2 hours of free wi-fi today, just buy this on your StarBucks card" . (sorry AT&T, I'm not signing up for your service, unless you can include it in my Wireless plan) as that's all I have at the moment. I must add though, you have to make it as easy as the free spots... 'cause I don't want to have to wait in line for my coffee and my wi-fi, "order up, single-tall-skinny-caramel-latte with w-fi" Patience is out the window with todays group of techies... order, sit, (and the precious minutes that you're waiting), you could have blogged this or more fun, killed a game of Pac Man. :)Really, they are not all that quick at making coffee sometimes, even with their new fangled poor milk-pump flavor-push button-drip. :)

read more | digg story

Breakthrough lithium battery charges to 90% in 5 minutes!

2007-12-13T08:54:00.001-08:00

Toshiba have stunned the world with their announcement of what's pretty much the holy grail in Lithium battery technology – the Super Charge ion Battery, which recharges up to 90% of its energy in just five minutes, and has a lifespan of over 10 years.

read more | digg story

Regarding How I Got My handle...

2007-10-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

I made it up. :)

It stemmed from an annoyance with segregation and a desire for individualism without categorization.

thecolor is simply unknown. It is "a" color, it's something everyone can use and enjoy, but no one truly knows "what" color it is, only that it is "a" color, it exists, and that it is one of many. :)

~TC

EEOC "state your race in employment, optional?" Not really...

2007-09-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

Recently my place of employment indicated the government agency or EEOC (not sure the acronym), requested employees fill out their individual "race card". As most employed in the US know, indicating your race is an option on an employment form.

However, I was recently made aware that (although optional for us to fill out)... if we do not, the company must fill it in for you, making an assumption on what your race is. (per the EEOC / government)

This is very sad, and poses the question, "why indicate it's "optional" to us, if you're going to force the companies to fill it in for you, not providing a "declined or unknown" option, and putting the company in a position of "technically" racism.

That could sound to harsh a word... but when you are forced to think of what someones race might be by what they look like you're forced to segregate them, make them less of a human (human only) not an individual (a person), but of a race.

Everyone is entitled to their individual way of thinking (or identifying in this case), but it seems to me; seeing someone is done better as someone, a human, another person,... not, the white, or native or Asian, or African or whatever, standing over there.

Thoughts?

engaged...

2007-08-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

I'm engaged now. :) Four years together and (although no date is set)... we'll be tying the knot soon. :) Just thought I'd share it with the world and shout it from the cybertops! Thanks to Stefano for helping me translate the proposal to Italian and obtaining the proposal bracelet for me from Venice. :)

Thanks also goes to Rachel and her staff at Serafina Seattle (an Italian Restaurant) for the excellent dining and assistance with preparing the special evening. :) As well as everyone else who helped with suggestions, etc. :)

Ciao

applephoneshow.com

2007-06-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

Al the hype, all the cache, all the information you can discover about the Apple iPhone can be located at www.applephoneshow.com

For those listening to this blog, it's Apple Phone Show dot com

Believe me, between their own stories, stories from others abound, and one of my favorite shows, TWIT or MacBreak Weekly the iPhone is bound to be a hit in one way or another... and the ApplePhoneShow.com web site is bound to bring that information to you.

Don't just read about the URL here, go check it out. Just click on one of the links in this blog, or copy and paste this URL. http://applephoneshow.com

email Equality!

2007-05-18T09:14:00.000-07:00

CC: is segregation!

BCC: is unacceptable & hidden tolerance!

Fight back, become one or don't communicate at all.

It's in the colors, in the boxes, and in the source.

2007-05-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

(select all or ctrl+a)

09F911

029D74

E35BD8

4156C5

635688

Ananimity can exist with google and a name...

2007-04-27T16:59:00.001-07:00

For the, "Oh my god, my names in a database"...

If you want to remain more anonymous online while many today are using Google as their "research engine"... Have your parents give you a really overused and common name... or, just change yours to one.

The average search for a very "common" name will yield so many possible results, it will take a lot more information than just a name to scope you out. Of course more information will divulge better results, but we are less likely to give out more ("here's my SSN") right. Hey, if your searcher is in a hurry or in a dry repeatitive government job, you might just skate right through.

Information is not always power, sometimes it's just clutter.

~TC

Mastery

2006-11-25T18:14:00.000-08:00

We can, teach art without a foundation, (stating that it has been learned without a basis), but in reality, everything is a foundation to something and therefore has to a basis by default.
It’s like stating that there is no god and we came from an explosion in space, or this is a god, and s/he created everything.

(Note: I am not any religion; I’ve grown up in a religious family where they still practice.)
In making that statement (so general to the world) whichever the truth or in my opinion most likely both being true, something had to come from something, a basis. Nothing comes from nothing or based on our understanding of the word “nothing”.

What is stranger about that idea of art from a basis or a pre-education to your mastery is that ultimately you can never master anything.

I cannot accept that any one person, animal, alien, whatever the being can be a master at anything since everything does not exist. For you to study a human and its ultimate form means to study a human of today and yesterday and its ultimate form. This same statement applies to everything we know, or experience(d) in “OUR” lifetime.

Technology is a part of today, but was not always apart of the (so called) “masters” of yesterday. Since those proclaimed masters are deceased in their ability to consciously understand the continuing make up of the “everything” today they cannot provide us with a new of anything.

Therefore, they cannot be or have been masters of “their” trade, but only by what society then (and possibly now) deems as excellent. As where, even excellence, or the mastery of something is shaped by the assumed excellence of any teaching.

Yes, I'm done, and no, I'm no longer looking...

2006-09-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah!!! :) I finally obtained permanent, full time work with a company! It's been oh, nearly 2 1/2 months, and yeah!! :) I start Monday. I just wanted to make an update and let everyone in on my happy days! :) Oh, and I got some new clothes to go with my new job. :)

L8

yes, I'm done and still looking...

2006-08-01T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month now. I've had two interviews (rather three) but with two companies. I've managed some short term contract work with one of the interviews. Not quite what I am looking for, but hopefully it will help with the bills.

Otherwise, I really am trying to find something in my area. :)

I've not had time to post though basically because I've either had no internet (fighting with Comcast and their horrid service).... or when I have had a bit to piggy back off of, (via wi-fi) I'm job searching. Honestly, doing it from my cell is very possible, but I don't want to touch type as much or more than I am typing at this moment. I need to charge my virtual keyboard, that would make things a lot easier.

Anyway, I just wanted to note that, I'm still alive, despite the lack of a full time, secure position with a company. Continue to cross your fingers, wish, hope, whatever for me. :)

Ciao

Oh, amd the new image/shot is of my new place in lower Queen Anne, (right across from the Space Needle). :)

I'm done!!!

2006-06-20T19:42:00.000-07:00

Well, for now. I've graduated, finally, with my BFA in Graphic design. So, now I have 2 degrees, and no job. Hmmm, this does not sound right.

Oh wait, add a HUGE loan on top of that and, umm, nope, still not right.

Oh, yes,... I'm still looking for work.

I've been pounding the pavement, registered with many services to help me along and talking to all those I know (for networking).

What do ya think? Will I get a decent job soon enough to start paying my school loans and start living a decent life? I sure hope so!

Sirius Radio in Windows Media Player (out of the browser) (Mac temp widget workaround)

2006-05-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

ok, I know that a Mac widget is very desirable, I would love one.

Here is the Sirius Radio Windows widget (partly what encouraged me to create this workaround)

Unfortunately I'm not a weak coder (mainly sites) but I love to tinker and I've long been looking for a way to play the Sirius Radio channels I want in at least in WMP without having to use the browser plugin / version at Sirius' web site and endure the annoying popup takeovers when I surf elsewhere or the Sirius time outs "are you listening? Click, "OK" to continue listenening" How annoying.

Well, problem solved (to a degree)... with (so far).. no timeouts like their page does if you want to let it run without watching the page.

Key is...
1. you have to log into their page (I know annoying) and selecting your stream (you have to actually begin playing it)
2. view the page source and look for the tag value="/mediaplayer
(of course there is more to the link after the word mediaplayer)
3. copy that value from "/mediaplayer" to the end of the link
4. open your media player (I've tested and know it works in at least WMP so far)
5. goto file > open url
6. type: "http://www.sirius.com" (less the quotes) and paste the remaining info you just copied from their source.
7. the stream should begin buffering / playing.

Once it starts to play you can stop the stream in the browser and listen separate the browser without timeouts and the nicest thing is the window won't accidentally close when you browse somewhere that pops a window in the same one your radio was playing in. :( It also allows you to use your visualizations in Windows Media Player. :)

What sucks so far is the token (url) changes each time you stop the browser stream. So, you can't save this as a playlist item and use the same url. Each time you stop the browser stream it will issue a new token (thus a new URL). I assume this is based on your login info.

It's a slight pain, but since reading the hex code of this widget is very tiring to create a Mac widget or applescript... it's gunna take some time.

However, if someone knows applescript or can figure out the login issue and menu functions within their pages so we can capture the new url each time it's stopped, I'm sure this function would work very nicely. :)

At least it's a work around for those that hate using the Sirius' browser player / plugin. :)

If you manage to create a Mac Sirius Radio Widget, please let me know. In the mean time I'll keep poking at this Windows versions code. :)

Distance and Friendship....

2006-05-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder why it's so hard today to make friends and keep or hold on to good quality ones? Someone for life, not just a short time at a job or in school. (not to say that those friends are not important, they definitely are!)

Recently in discussion with my g/f we came to a similar conclusion; mankind has done it to themselves. We've alienated ourselves from good quality friendship for the most part. Some intentional (perhaps quality) others unintentional (perhaps job or external relationship(s).)

Sure, you can have friends at work, or school, or elsewhere, but how many people at the same job or school as you, live close enough to you that you can just "hang out", go get coffee, chat face to face about something that JUST happened, some small short little things?

My closest school friend right now is over 25 miles away (having to drive through horrid city traffic) making the commute typically over or very close to an hour long one way. That takes a momentary thought or excitement and drives it into a, "I can't remember".

Don't get me wrong, long jaunts are just as meaningful and well deserved, sometimes relaxing in commute... but I personally find that my car is one large sad factor. With the vehicle in the mix we tend to live farther apart for sake of our own personal living styles, new homes, families, jobs, etc.

I find it very difficult today to drive over 100 miles round trip to see my mother. That is very sad, as we live in the same state. We take 100 miles for granted with our cars, (you might say, "it's only an hour and a half or two") but then add gas (it's cost), time in transit, frustration, etc., it all ads up to subtracting the close, instant, and long term friendships that we should have to keep from becoming sad or lonely humans in existence.

Again, not to be misunderstood, it's good to have your own desires, a car, and you can make neighborly friends (all in moderation and chosen wisely). But ultimately, it's rare now a day that we are close enough to one or more friends in short distance that we can just drop everything and meet for whatever reason at typically spur of the moment times.

I miss some of my old friends and wish these things did not so greatly prevent or discourage someone from getting to know more. We've grown apart both in distance, in jobs, and family life and it makes me sad to know I can't have that friend: "I've known forever and will know until I die."

Ever get tired of choices?

2006-04-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

Short post, more of a tired rant.

I just returned from the local grocery store. Having to buy quite a few things, I asked a local shopper in the same isle as me, "do you ever get tired of choices?"

She laughed. Sometimes I think that I have to many choices, and as much as I love choice and would not want it to disappear, other times I simply wish distinction where easier.

I've tried all the versions of the product mentioned below, simply to find out they are no different in functionality, they just look different and cost different. However, I still get stuck in the isle with a new label from the same company claiming it's better and better, and oh, this one is better.

The product: liquid pipe cleaner
The Problem: To many freakin' cleaners that say, it does the same thing
Resolution: Bought the cheapest one.

note: Sorry big brand names, you lose 'cause you have to many of the same product with slightly different labels and bottles... otherwise, in a taste test of liquid pipe cleaners, I say they all kill gunk, grime and taste buds equally. :P

JaJah.com vs. Skype

2006-04-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of JaJah? Have you heard of Skype? I'm sure you've heard of Skype, but JaJah.com is (at the moment I feel a better way to make voip calls from anywhere, anytime).

Skype most of know allows you to call pc2pc and with their skypeOut service you can call another phone or have calls forwarded to you (such as to a land line or a mobile). Those are awesome features, and I love how inexpensive it is to call all over the world.

Recently I ran into a site by JaJah.com where they provide a similar service, but from a browser only. This to me is the beat out to Skype. The ability to make the call from a site only, with no software to download is the greatest.

What happens is, when you visit there site, you type in your phone number, and the number of the person you want to call. Once you initiate the call with the "call" button the JaJah system creates to calls one to you and one to your party and once one is connected, the two calls are joined, conference style. The quality is just as good as any other voip service, Vonage, Skype, etc. and you can do it anywhere you have access to the internet.

Their rates are as competitive as Skype and I'd bet Vonage as well (granted I've not used their service in over 3 years).. and they are releasing a mobile version soon as well. That tops it right there. The ability to pop onto a mobile web page from any phone that can access the net means that you don't need a specific carrier, you don't need a specific device, and you don't need to install a program. Eliminating 3 things the average person hates to deal with.

I've stated all this in my PodCast as well. So if you have not tuned in, or visited JaJah.com, do so, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Always on, Always in Thought...

2006-04-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

The photos you see of me every 30 seconds you load my blog... if they look intense, mad, anything in that arena, I'm not.

My problem is that I simply can't stop thinking. It's a concentration face.

See, I'm unable to dismount, unload, eject, turn off, whatever you want to call relax. I've got a tendency to relate the human body to machines. After all, I must agree with people like Kevin Warwick that the evolution of man is to integrate.

So, perhaps my inner machine is just like those I take care of in my home, "always on".

Is it a concentration problem?, I don't think so. The reason why is that I can finish a thought, I can complete a problem, in fact sometimes faster than I think should be possible... however, when one thought or process is complete, another starts right up, without lag or pause or rest, I begin again and again.

This can be difficult in the area of sleep, but I manage simply with a restless night.

So when you pop in to read my rants and raves, never mind the assumed unhappy face, just pose the question, "I wonder what he's thinking about now?" ;)

cypher-sec's Frankenstyle

2006-04-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

I've always thought that design is sort of a "Frankenstein's Monster". In that, ideas come to you, new, old, reworked... but always a compilation of everything you consume and consume in any manner. Dr. Frankenstein had an idea and completed it through the help of his friend Egor and the parts and pieces of others. As disgusting as that may sound, your work is always the same... created through help from others and bits and pieces of other work or things you've consumed.

I recently spoke at a conference with 110 Belgium students where I tried to instill in them that conception is in the mind, on the paper, and all around you. Yet conceptions final piece is ultimately Frankenstein's monster. I also said, that Plagiarism is not what you create or what you think. Although a heavy word to use "Plagiarism", I feel it's something that most people are afraid of to the extent that they don't create enough or re-create what they consume. They think that plagiarism extends to the usage of parts (any in most situations), but forget (unless directly copied) it's in your head and ultimately never comes out the same (again unless directly copied) and thus not from your head, but from a reflection.

Every design I see or create myself has an element or more of something else I've consumed, (not necessarily originated).

So as to your creativity, and generation or re-generation of work... Frankenstein it, Frankenstein everything! Ultimately you will create a monster that is true to your style and interests. Frankenstein did not copy the human body, he simply borrowed parts and created his own. It's yours, it's someone else's, it's everyone's.

My little brother is leaving...

2006-04-08T13:08:00.001-07:00

We don't see a whole bunch of each other, ('cause he lives 100 miles from me (round trip))... but I enjoy his company.

Really funny dude and the only male figure in my life (as my dad was not really there). Despite our differences (simply being different people) we get along fairly well. Perhaps that is the age, as even though we got along as children we had our spats. Who doesn't? ;)

He's heading off to AK to fish and who knows when he'll be back. :(
He's not carrying a cell, or will even be in a location where he can communicate
with the outside world. I couldn't handle it. I'd be lost without my GPS/PDA/Cell Phone with full access to the internet (in addition to its ability to call). What to do? He's even going to miss my graduation. :( Hopefully if I go for my PhD or masters he'll be there for that.

Tina (my g/f) and I are going to a little soiree he's holding tonight at his place (kind of to see him off, I guess). Hopefully he does not stay long, or at least comes back to visit.

I'll miss him. :(

Hardest thing right now...

2006-04-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things to work with right now is my portfolio, site, and all.

I want to be simple, "keep it simple stupid", but no matter what I do, there seems to be to many hands in the portfolio design. :(

Is this a situation where I "work for myself" or "work for someone else"?

I design, and design, and design, and eventually meet a specific requirement.

I could design and design and (oddly) be never satisfied with what I have, saying, "it can always be better." Is that a flaw?

Then I move on, and or obtain new leadership and this new leadership wants the same thing but something different.

It's enough to pull your hair out sometimes. I mean, I enjoy change and I really have no real problem changing things upon request, but really.... I feel sometimes with all the changes required that I can never get something right (despite the fact that the instructions or requests are now coming from a different person with different goals and different ideas).

In this situation, what do I do?... change for the new desires of someone else and just deal with it, or change for me?

This is just great!!!

2006-04-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, normally I would not go posting a bunch of other things that really don't have a relation to my thoughts, (it's like spam)... but I thought this video of a house setup with Chirstmas lights (Christmas or not) was just great!

10mph.com video trailer...

2006-04-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

I found this trailer today on youtube.com and thought, if only life would allow such travels without ending up nowhere. Does the question of life change from "Why are we here?" to "What are we doing?"

Will we, do we, can we, is it possible to end up nowhere if we just let go of everything to enjoy freedom, enjoy life, the rustic, slow paced life?
I'm always interested in how easy and what it might take to simply drop everything for one important goal and where will it take you?

This movie seems to ask and attempt this. From those at 10mph.com a trailer about the movie:
I'm very inclined to see it. :)

Cherry Blossoms at the University of Washington...

2006-04-03T10:14:00.000-07:00

A day at the UW in Seattle. Just enjoying the Cherry Blossoms in bloom. :)

My Cat flosses.....

2006-04-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

Really. :) After I finished flossing, she decided she needed a cleaning also. :)

Last Quarter, first day back...

2006-04-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

This is my last quarter and my first day back. I've got a class at noon, History of Political Theory, and one on Wednesday, *my Portfolio Presentation class*.

I'm not really looking forward to the H.of P.T. class, but I'll manage.

It's kind of a tough thought though that in 11 weeks I'll be graduating again and will need a job ASAP! :(

What to do, who to contact, what a pain. :(

Ok, positive thoughts here... I have a strong portfolio, pride in my work and desire a position with an advertising firm, such as Girvin or Publicis.

What's the likelihood?... let's now think about that.

Well, back to the concept development for my Portfolio Presentation class.
I must have several ideas before class on Wednesday in addition to my thesis statement (no problem there as it's complete) and can be found on this site. :)

Wish me all the luck!

Personal service or article flammers are dumb A$$es...

2006-04-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

I should start writing about Dumb A$$es that make the world a worse place.

Perhaps I will with this first story.

Techdirt writes a story, or comments on a previous one. In turn, a reader (who had a choice to read, or leave the story and site decided instead to flame the writer and generalize it as "the people of the site".

Here's the original story: It's April...

Here is the flamer's response to the writer(s):
Why Don't You Guys Get Over Always Trying to Claim by Annoyed Reader on Apr 3rd, 2006 @ 3:07am
Your constant attempts to claim that you were the first to notice a trend or express an opinion on something are getting really tiresome, guys. It's always been adolescent, but now it's becoming so oppressive that it's really detracting from the quality of your writing.

Today, the newspapers, Spitzer and the Feds, all just imitating you. Wow - let me spend a moment basking in the glory of all that is you.

There, now I can go back to my entirely derivative life and wait for you to tell me what to believe in.

And here is my reply to the flamer:

OMG. Even that acronym is used and abused, redundant and imitated to much, but common, to complain about someone's work or services.

The internet is a plethora of redundancy, why?, because of choice, and opinion! No one story will be the same simply because it's being retold, or better articulated for someone who might not have understood its original source. (unless it's just copied without reference which is just plagiaristic).

So what if a story is redundant or imitates, if you think you have the time these writers have to research, reword (for someone else's better understanding), maintain and or report on something/anything on a site you enjoy coming to (personal choice by the way), why don't you submit a story that you can read and be happy about or start up your own news and educational site and get your own traffic and repeated visitors and maintain and research and write more and more and more content EVERY FREAKIN' DAY!

There are so many sites in this world, if someone should get bored they typically and simply click somewhere else, perhaps you should give it more of a try... obviously you know how or you'd not know this story (seemed, is, or was redundant.)

Why waste valuable mental soaking time on flaming a writer (again redundant or not) or provider of any public service when you could be trying to make the human race seem better than you actually are.

It's funny, as I insult you, I actually find that I do quite enjoy telling those who complain about other peoples work or services how stupid they are. :) That is fun writing.

Perhaps you can read, learn, be enlightened, and or enlighten others on how stupid they sound when they complain about being educated.

D.A.!

~I'm done.

This felt real good. :) There are so many stupid people in this world, and I feel like pointing them out. :)

Pre-pixelated clothes

2006-03-30T11:25:00.000-08:00

Ever watched a TV show and noticed the blur over brands and such that just have not paid their dues to be advertised on the show... Well, a guy named "David" (per his blog) has come up with a line of clothing by; Ironic Sans that takes care of that problem pre-accidental airing. :)

With this ingenious line of clothing, you can not only look sheik and hip with that *ike shirt but tell people that you really did pay a fortune for those *beep* shoes, boy are we all cool now, for a fraction of the price.

I personally think this idea is great, as I don't like how much companies get paid for the smallest and stupidest things like (displaying their logo on a tooth), sheesh.

More power to ya, David, and for those out there that don't want to spend bookoo bucks on that *ucci handbag or whatever it is, just buy something pre-pixelated from Ironic Sans and you can call it any SUPER BRAND NAME you want, who's gunna really know, it's blurred. :P

Writely, an online contender to MSOffice?!....

2006-03-24T10:08:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of Writely yet? If not, you might want to check them out.

Writely is now owned by Google (of course and why not?)... but what's great about this program is that it's an online contender to M$oft.

Writely is an online Word processing program (that is, it works in a browser) and allows you to write and open word processing (.)docs online or offline, just like MS Word or StarOffice. I'm always for free programming and programs and those that are all in one spot. :) My personal ultimate goal is to have an all in one (of everything). ;)

My phone is a prime example, it's a pda an mp3 player a movie box (Granted a small screen),an audio streamer, a camera, and more, It's nearly a full on computer. I love being able to utilize multiple things in one and Writely is just helping me out with that.

I don't have much more info at this time (as I am waiting for my invitation to come through (only method at the moment))... but I will update you when I get it and what it's like. :)

In the mean time, here is a Link to their blogSpot for further info.

~TC

Podcast via Cypher-sec.org

2006-03-22T09:50:00.000-08:00

I've been so busy with PodCasting my own stuff lately, I've neglected my Blog. :( Well, perhaps I've not totally... considering I've never been a top notch writer and speak so much better. So, in all fairness to me, I've been blogCasting instead. ;)

If you've not had a chance to check me out, go for it. :) I try to keep them short, simply for entertainment value. Maybe in the future I will do something a bit longer, (like a story or something).

It seems there are so many out there though, unless you advertise yourself or someone mentions you (for you) then there's just to much in the world we now have access too. :) So, enjoy or not, totally up to you, I realize it's just another pixel on your screen to watch over. ;)

My My blogCast (or podCast) whatever you want to call it

Give Your Blog a Voice...

2006-03-20T06:57:00.000-08:00

This is great! I recently started recording or translating all my blogs from text to speech, utilizing the 'say' command on my Mac. Of course this is possible on any computer with a text to speech conversion program (of which there are many).

What this does is it reads your text/file into the program and pipes (|) it out to an audio file, aiff, mp3, wave, ogg, (whatever your program is capable of). Ultimately you'd probably use MP3 for reasons of size (especially if you are serving the audio from your own home/server) and is probably the most universal at the moment for general computers as well as mobile listening or podcasting.

I started with the 'say' command on my Mac, because I wanted it to be automated, whenever I created a blog, I would automatically run the program 'say' which converted the text file to an aiff. Then utilizing additional codec/software conversion I could change it to a smaller and still quality mp3. The problem I was having (and still working on for personal growth) is that I could not get the text conversion to work in the same script as the aiff to mp3 script.

Obviously an annoying problem, I searched for a resolution online, and came across a very helpful person at blog: Cognitive Atrophy. He was able to assist additionally in the conversion from aiff to mp3 automatically and attempted the "all in one script". Unfortunately we seemed to both be stumped at that dual conversion process... and so he suggested an alternative.

Note: this does not mean that the dual conversion is not possible, it simply means we did not spend enough time to figure it out (thus my continued efforts for further education). :)

Anyhow, he advised me of a great site called: Talkr.com, which actually monitors your blog and converts your text to speech for you, automatically. This, I thought was freakin' awesome! With a snip of code from their site (and of course a free sign up) you're off and automatically running.

One slight snag hit though when I tried using the rss (atom.xml) feed from blogger.com, talkr did not like it. :( So, through additional suggestion from my new vContact Cognitive Atrophy I was directed to a re-rssing services... (basically a filter) called: Feedburner.

What Feedburner did was (through a signup also) re-rss my blog (basically make a mirror of it, but in a format that Talkr could understand.

Once I had set that up, I not only benefited from a mirror of my blog at Feedburner.com, but I was also able to begin my automatic text to speech translation via Talkr, AND.... remove some needed bandwidth snatching from my personal server at home. :)

Upload speed (at least in the US) is a precious thing. Sure, the public (consumer available) net connections are decent (for the most part) in down speed (8mb+) but the upload speeds are ridiculous (368kb +) if you are lucky. So now you can understand the desire for sharing upload/bandwidth with additional resources.

Although this seems like a long process (using three services to blog with audio and text)... should you read this first, then you might check out Talkr's website to find out which they may work with directly for this feature and thus save a step (through Feedburner).

Hope this is a helpful post and feel free to send suggestions comments for others to grow from as well. :)

Project Cyborg Research Summary:

2006-03-10T17:35:00.000-08:00

Project Cyborg (by Kevin Warwick) is the first study I had seriously paid attention to in regards to humans evolving to a hybrid state in this existence.

What human, since Eve took the apple, has not utilized one enhancement in their life to assist in something their organic body could already do or do better than it was designed for? From that dawn, clothes were the first cybernetic aid to maintaining our ability to survive and evolve to a new, better, faster, safer, more intelligent being.

Dr. Kevin Warwick educates through many constant reports and his web site: http://www.reading.ac.uk/KevinWarwick/index.html that humans exist better due to the enhancements we’ve utilized in life. Clothes keep us warmer than we might have otherwise been which enable a safer shelter from the cold and thus a longer existence from an icy grave. Machines today and since the wheel, have enabled man to do things that their normal body might otherwise have difficulty doing, as a result are able to live a healthier, safer and longer life.

Dr. Kevin Warwick is a firm believer that the next evolution of humans will not be just an external assistant to humans, such as the wheel, clothes, cooking devices, hearing aids, transportation, medicine and other non organic or cybernetic devices. Dr. Warwick believes that humans or living organisms will evolve to utilize such devices (smaller through advanced technology) more directly, in fact integrated within our bodies.

As such thinking goes, he has implemented testing of technology he has developed to be the first Cyborg, as current definition has it: “A human who has certain physiological processes aided or controlled by mechanical or electronic devices.” (dictionary.com) With this Chip Implant Technology he is capable of interacting more directly with the separate mechanical devices we use as aids and take for granted on a daily bases.
He can turn on lights automatically, function heat controls, operate doors, control prosthetic elements, feel recorded neurological playbacks and more.

What I find most important about this report (in addition to the actual study) is that he and many other believers in such technology are given more to think about in regards to what exactly a Cyborg is. In fact, I’ve begun to agree that being a Cyborg is simply the enhancement of our lives through otherwise non organic devices. Just because some of these devices are not directly “hardwired” to our organic neurological system, does not mean they are not mechanical by definition and are not aiding us in existence. Dr. Kevin Warwick and others like him are simply taking Cyborg to another level. Instead of having to walk to the light switch to turn it on, having the switch inside you makes the process an evolution in itself and thus the human existence is faster, easier and potentially safer for many other situations. We are already Cyborgs, this is simply more evolved.

Boredom

2006-03-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

This is what I did when I actually had time to relax. It's rare, my brain is frequently firing off thoughts, ideas, and then some off those... it's really a never ending cycle... even when I try to sleep. :( Sometimes quite bothersome. A video from my cell.

Audio Blogs...

2006-03-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

I am making any post that seems worth listening to a text to speech conversion.
So if you would rather listen to the topic or read it at the same time, look for the link at the bottom of the topic titled “Listen to this:” There will be an mp3 file at the other end of that link in which you can just open up, download to your iPod or other device or whatever you feel like doing with it. :)

Hide the Mac OS X Finder Menu

2006-03-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

Through help from a friend, a work around has been found. It's a hack and totally up to you if you want to try it, but here is the basics of it.

1. Find a new explorer you don't mind replacing Finder with (since it is also your browser) and install it.

I chose Macintosh Explorer: http://www.ragesw.com/explorer.php

(it's a good idea to have the explorer for a gui navigation) unless you don't mind using the term for everything. :)

2. Make a shortcut on your dock (the one that can autohide) so it's accessible after the finder is no longer active).

3. Navigate to the directory:
/System/Library/CoreServices/Finder.app/Contents/MacOs/

4. su (you have to be root to change the name of the Finder app)

5. change the name of the Finder app to something like "FinderBK"
less the quotes. This way you can use it in the future if you want it back.
(all you have to do is rename it).

The rename command would be "mv FinderBK Finder" to return,
and "mv Finder FinderBK" to disable. No quotes in the command.

6. After you rename it, exit the term and you should be set.

Once all your apps are closed, the menu bar is gone. And you can use the new explorer you setup to access files in a GUI.

As an unfortunate to this, the menu bar returns whenever you have an app open (as it's the menu bar for the app too). So, once you've closed everything the menu is gone. :)

It's a work around. Not an autohide, but nice for those that one, hate to look at it, two, like their desktop as a picture frame also, and three just have to figure out a new way of defying corporate America! :)

Now if I keep working on this, (or someone else who has some hacking interesting) we might be able to find a way to autohide it. :) I am learning appleScript, so I might be able (with time) add coordinates to auto hide where the mouse is and come back. Although to make this fairly universal, I'll have to use like a location specific (center) or something, since not everyone uses the same res size. Perhaps even make a shaded section to identify it. Thoughts out loud. :)

Good luck, and don't cry to me if you can't figure out root, or deleted it, or can't make it come back.

Think before you act, and learn some skills in *nix if you are unsure first! :)
Not being mean, just being real. :)

~TC

Here are some snap shots for ya:

My Brother is Wack!

2006-03-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I really don't know where his head is at. :) But he can make you laugh.

He left a voicemail on me cell that went something like, "there's ping pong balls in the bottom of tennis cans..." to weird if you ask me.

Perhaps you can understand, and maybe get a kick out of it. :)

Listen to this voicemail: Ping Pong Balls

My Final Thesis Satement: Title "Thecolor"

2006-03-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

Forasmuch as design conventionally functions as a beautiful, blue body of work with ivory elements, visually within, as well as out of focus, it more frequently acts as a Red Razor of intensity. Information is glomming for your external attention, rather than the deep and satisfying elements toward its creation. The onlooker needs to experience the hybridity, the actual presence of the work, what elements entice you to stop or go out of your way to experience the difference, why the experience is never the same, the meaning of the color is in constant flux.

Virtual Radio Hack (vradio)

2006-02-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to figure out a way to stream my own audio through my A920 since I bought the dang thing. It seemed like no one had created a program to do this.... in actuality, no one had (for this device), until now. :)

Problem: I wanted my own streaming audio content on my mobile device and could not find software to stream a .pls file (playlist)

Device: Motorola A92x A920 with A925 firmware

Partial Resolution: I purchased a program called Virtual Radio at www.vradio.org

This worked great, except it would not allow me to stream my own content. The developer's site said that they would add any live stream to their list and thus you could basically stream your own content that way.

Additional Problem: The developer refused to link my stream so I could access it through his great software. (what a waste!) Seems my stream was not good enough, not big enough and I did not advertise it. :(

So I Fixed My Problem: I set out to do what I do normally, what someone won't do for me. :) In this program there is a great little file called vr_list.xml under the system>apps>vrcli folder.

The great thing about this file is that it's easily editable and needs no recompiling to work with the existing program.

The problem with the program is that is is designed to connect to vradio.org and auto update the list. If you edit the file vr_list.xml and add your stream url, that update will simply wipe it out. To fix that problem, simply make the file read only, and hidden.

Once you've update the file with your own stream URL such as http://yourdomain.com:8000 and made this file read only and hidden, launch the program again, and search for the location in which you placed the link (Channel Group) The program should not only launch quicker because it is not able to update the file, but it will also display your new link in the Channel Group you placed it, viola, personal streaming content of which you have control over.

Another nice thing is that, since you can add any stream URL that is at least (to my knowledge) shoutcast compliant then you've got a massive shoutcast list: courtesy shoutcast.com. Just extract the stream URL and add it to your xml file and your set. :) In addition to that, you could actually go for a higher quality stream (like 128kbps) or whatever. Of course that greatly depends on your device and data rate. If you don't have great speakers on it and a sucky data rate, well then, 128 kbps is either just not gunna load or it's gunna chop from buffering like crazy. :(

Bare in mind, only you can see it... this is not a hack of the vradio site, only the software you own. But that was the point right.. to simply listen to your own music and control your list? :)

Hope this little post was helpful to anyone who wants to stream their own music on their Motorola A92x A920 A925 or any device that supports Virtual Radio.

Thanks Virtual Radio. To bad you would not help the little guy out. :(

Possible problems (if any): You might run into the occasional "Can't write file" error when opening the program. If that happens, simply go back to the system dir you placed the new file in, change its name to something like bk.vr_list.xml.bk and reload the program. Once it's written the new file and connected to vradio successfully, simply go back to the dir, delete the newly written vr_list.xml and change yours back (removing the bk.) and reopen the program. :)

---Edit---

The creator of the program had a change of heart and added my station as an exception. :) That was very nice of him. Thank you Juerg

Do or can you believe in an enhanced or extended life?

2006-02-11T12:26:00.000-08:00

Project Cyborg (by Kevin Warwick) is the first study I had seriously paid attention to in regards to humans evolving to a hybrid state in this existence.

What human, since Eve took the apple, has not utilized one enhancement in their life to assist in something their organic body could already do or do better than it was designed for? From that dawn, clothes were the first cybernetic aid to maintaining our ability to survive and evolve to a new, better, faster, safer, more intelligent being.

Dr. Kevin Warwick educates through many constant reports and his web site: http://www.kevinwarwick.com/ that humans exist better due to the enhancements we’ve utilized in life. Clothes keep us warmer than we might have otherwise been which enable a safer shelter from the cold and thus a longer existence from an icy grave. Machines today and since the wheel, have enabled man to do things that their normal body might otherwise have difficulty doing, as a result are able to live a healthier, safer and longer life.

Dr. Kevin Warwick is a firm believer that the next evolution of humans will not be just an external assistant to humans, such as the wheel, clothes, cooking devices, hearing aids, transportation, medicine and other non organic or cybernetic devices. Dr. Warwick believes that humans or living organisms will evolve to utilize such devices (smaller through advanced technology) more directly, in fact integrated within our bodies.

As such thinking goes, he has implemented testing of technology he has developed to be the first Cyborg, as current definition has it: “A human who has certain physiological processes aided or controlled by mechanical or electronic devices.” (dictionary.com) With this Chip Implant Technology he is capable of interacting more directly with the separate mechanical devices we use as aids and take for granted on a daily bases.
He can turn on lights automatically, function heat controls, operate doors and more without lifting his finger.

What I find most important about this report (in addition to the actual study) is that he and many other believers in such technology are given more to think about in regards to what exactly a Cyborg is. In fact, I’ve begun to agree that being a Cyborg is simply the enhancement of our lives through otherwise non organic devices. Just because some of these devices are not directly “hardwired” to our organic neurological system, does not mean they are not mechanical by definition and are not aiding us in existence. Dr. Kevin Warwick and others like him are simply taking Cyborg to another level. Instead of having to walk to the light switch to turn it on, having the switch inside you makes the process an evolution in itself and thus the human existence is faster, easier and potentially safer for many other situations. We are already Cyborgs, this is simply more evolved.

Thesis Rough VI:

2006-02-11T12:23:00.000-08:00

You’ll Never See Me on a Billboard.

Forasmuch as design is typically identified as beautiful or useful by visual available elements in focus, and no longer (typically) by its process, artists should implement and showcase multiple talents or frequently hidden traits toward unknown, mysterious features in a work(s). Design and art should evolve from an onlooker net to a combination of process elements in order to showcase and take advantage of the many out of focus basics in life creating and making use of the hybridity of evolutionary ideas.

This still needs much work, any thoughts?

What if any sort of faith from this day forward stopped existing?

2006-01-31T12:11:00.000-08:00

I always wonder when peace will be attained in our word. Will it happen in my lifetime is something I'd really like to know.

I'm going to define faith for this post as a religion or a belief in a god. I realize faith could be as broad as beleaving something will happen (so not to worry), but I want to narrow it down a bit.

While I was reading my Middle East book for my Modern Asian History Class; A Concise History of the Middle East Seventh Edition, by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr., I started to wonder..., "What if there was no faith, what if the faith that anyone had from the past stopped existing, or everyone simply acknowledged that "something" created what we have and that "something" is and has to be nameless, simply for the sake of peace and acceptance. Try and accept the idea, why must there be a specific god, or religion to house a belief in and that the "something" can really be anything.

I start to wonder too, what faith has brought any being on this planet advancement to understand more, or to learn about their role in life (if that even exists)?

Now, I'm not religious, but I've had my fair share of beliefs explained to me many times, and still do. I come from a background of several different faiths and my family is now split among them, each believing in their own. I personally stopped with the whole faith thing when my parents divorced, because my father shoved it down my throat. That's enough to make anyone just accept that something created everything and that's enough. I can always individually question where I came from, why I am here and who made up what (if 'who' is even the write word).

It seems to me that a faith does not need to be there to ask those questions, or even make me curious. In the same token, faith has never seemed to have truly proven to anyone that their life would be better a specific way. In fact many people become hypocrites (despite their faith) or let their life fall to pieces over a faith, where faith is their ruling factor for life and nothing can intervene.

Since when has anyone been able to call on a god and repair a body or make something in life or study and question why for you, and then give you the answer? The ball is rolling, "something" chucked it and at this point it's up to an individual or group (the world) to help guide it the direction the individual(s) would like to see it go (developer.)

As far as time seems to tell, everything that exists today (not discounting the fact that it had to come from "something" has been since created by man or nature (to include space as nature). So what additional good does fighting to have or force a soul faith on someone do anyone, when all these things can be obtained through normal operation of your life?

Right now, Hamas is still bent on killing off the Israeli people and for what, a faith? Who's next should they win that argument, I fear the possibilities. :(

An old friend...

2006-01-27T10:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I met up with an old friend from high school. Boy was that a treat!

He’s probably one of few individuals I’d actually enjoy being and keeping in touch with from my teenage days.

I really hated highschool. Being an individual was not something most teens understood. So for most of us who were in that category, we were segregated as loaners, or lame, or geeks, or dorks. Most of the people I knew in highschool just plain sucked!

Sad to say, I know, but oh so normal. It really makes me sad to see that in order for someone to think on their own they have to be labeled weird or the like. What’s going to happen when I have kids and they start to think on their own? Oh do I hope that works out better for them!

Anyway, the meeting with my friend went great. It was so nice to catch up on old times, and to realize he was so close to where I live. That makes it even nicer as I don’t have to travel 50+ miles to hang out. J

My only real companionship (aside from my wonderful girlfriend) …stop reading bad things into her not being a wonderful companion. :P was my brother or other family. Problem there was one, they are family, not a friend of some sort through your own attempts at friendship in life and two they are in that 50+ mile range and I hate having to drive up there all the time. It’s rare when they actually want to come down here closer to the city. L

But, my friend and I hit it off just like back in highschool and we talked for quite a while. It was as I always think, like a treasure chest opened after so many years! Going back to the memories, and updating them with new ones.

The reunion went so well that we may just hang out again. It would be nice to be able to start up a friend ship like back in highschool after these 14 years or so.

When Technology and Design Combine...

2006-01-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

Here is my delima, I'm a tech vet since approximately 1995, with around 6+ years of an I. T. background. In addition to that I love art, and more specifically returned to school in '04 for my BFA in Graphic Design. I've currently been tasked with writing my thesis statement, of which I feel I can more certainly narrow down to those two loves. The problem; how to marry the two topics, technology and design without being so general as the use of design software, etc.

At this moment all I can do is think, where is the holigrahic art piece that also functions as a techaholic marvel?

Thesis mind rambling:

2006-01-26T11:02:00.000-08:00

I’m an artist, looking for a career in design and advertising. I have a rather large problem though I cannot focus? My counselor told me once I might fall into the realm of being a “sensitive person”. The way I think (a million miles an hour) the fact that I cannot read without total silence (and even then thoughts I in my head cannot be stifled.)

I am constantly consuming data and thought, “that that sounds like autism”, but in my case (I don’t go wacko (for a lack of better words) when too much stimuli comes in, or do I?

So I modified the thought of being autistic to a controlled autistic. I know, it sounds like an oxymoron, but are oxymoronic statements not eventually “the norm”. Sorry, I hate the statement “norm” but it’s ingrained and unfortunately necessary to survive in this age.

So, my previous ramble is a slight indication of how I think, or better yet, why I can’t.
I guess in a scientific mind I am thinking, just to much. I’ve tried relaxation sound bites; I’ve tried breaking away from the technology of today, but that in it self is inescapable. It seems no matter what I try I cannot break away from the constant jitter of my own mind. I feel sometimes like the router between the world and the computer, a gateway for all things clutter, interesting and annoying. Instead of being a physical pack rat I’m a mental pack rat.

So with all this data in my head and with the fact that it will never stop, how can I make sense of it enough to design well (or what the social normal considers good)?

Firstly, the social norm: Society is what creates the norm, and the wealthy and or majority control society. Therefore, the norm is bias toward people that are not either.

In addition to what the general population wants, they want more.

This thesis for example, it’s needed for the class as well as 6 additional pieces for my portfolio. Honestly, I feel taxed enough trying to write the thesis statement. I’ve not even started writing it, unless you consider this part of that. Nor have I started one of the 6 new pieces to be created for the portfolio.

I’m able to get some thoughts out to reflect on, but is there an “easy button” for collecting your thoughts into a socially normal thesis statement?

Is this messing around, or helpful?

Does this need to make sense? Does it all have to apply or can it ramble on and on?

2006-01-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

What is the “bread and butter” statement really? Does that imply that we are all convicts in life (as so frequently convicts eat only bread and just barely make it by)?

Why is it that we have to have the bread and butter to survive? "Survival" use to mean simply remaining alive as long as you could. Eat what is available to you; befriend anyone who wishes your friendship in return.

Is design (for my thesis) reliant on the “bread and butter” concept, where one must at least have the bread and butter in order to survive?

Why can’t a designer, artist (alike) simply design for the sake of designing without society dictating what is good or bad so you can obtain the bread and butter to survive?

There certainly is enough bread and butter to go around the world for all of time (as we calculate time). So why are the moneygrubbers (below) attempt to hog all the bread and butter to themselves?

Why are the moneygrubbers so much of society, why do they control how and what is society or the norm?

If we had no norm would that be anarchy? Or is it a Marxist, communist, democratic society mixed into one? Is such a society possible?

I just overheard from one of my professors that “the greatest thing about design, is there are no rules”. Does that statement seem strange in that if there are no rules, why am I in school to learn design? Still, if that were true, why is it so difficult to sell my designs as “good enough”? The horrible statement is something like, “you don’t compare” or “there is always better out there”. I can sever that last statement a bit and partially agree that there is “always more out there, to be further inspired by”, but it is never “better or comparable, it’s simply different and unique to the individual or machine that created it.

And concept, I hear behind me that it includes, sketches, quote, cutouts, copies, etc…
Then I hear it needs to display the work process of a particular project to a finish. A concept book seems to be all that not just one of anything. I’m hearing that a great concept book is an on and on explanation of a process, and then toward the end of the book there was a short narrative that said, “we threw it all out and started from scratch”, which to this instructor or (generally speaking) a display that we are always striving for the best. Always the best, always “what is the best and who decides it is the best”?

You know, I cold write and think and listen forever to as much as I possibly could, but until I can group it all together (stop it from coming in long enough to do that), I may never figure out what my philosophy on design and life are. I suppose I will always ramble about all the different things I consume, visually, audibly, mentally (over and over) again and again.

Money Grubbers, Generation X and Generation @

2006-01-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

I'm under the impression that my generation (I think I'm in 'X', 31 Y.O.) is looking for more of a peaceful lifestyle. We're less moneygrubbers and more family lifers. The money grubbers I refer to are looking to be millionaires, to make it all, to own it all, to control it all, and if someone in our age bracket is that way, they were most likely raised by a money grubber to be a money grubber.

Fewer and fewer I know or speak to want to "own the world" or be richer than everyone. More and more want a family, want a decent life that is free from slumlords, and simply want to make it by without all the competition in life.

This makes me wonder, where will generation @ be when we are elders (not necessarily superiors)? Will we work together more; have more harmony in the work place and general life? Or, will generation @ return us to the money grubbing state of mind that generation X has attempted to make more relaxing.

Generation X and @ (for those that are old enough to work) are worked to the bone, so much harder than any human should be. We rarely have time to relax or enjoy life... 'cause the grubbers are attempting to train us to be like them.

Like my previous post, I’m up at 0545 in the morning, to attend to a working life (in my present situation school, but work for many others), then when I get home around 1700 (after fighting horrible traffic (EVERYDAY), I have the normal practices of making sure the home is together, and decent for everyday living (tidying up), then hitting the gym to remain healthy for a hopeful life to outlive the grubbers, then return home to shower, possibly eat some dinner if I have time, then hit the sack for the only relaxation time I can manage (again, if I am not woken by a bad dream, or simply cannot sleep due to the plethora of tings running through my mind due to the day and beyond).

Where, when, how will relaxation set in or will it ever?

emi loves you

2006-01-26T07:47:00.000-08:00

thecolor, subjectivity life

http://cypher-sec.blogspot.com

Too much of everything...

2006-01-25T18:42:00.000-08:00

I'm at the gym, on the treadmill.

How is exercise suppose to be relaxing again?

I've got three tvs on in front of me, two racquet ball tornaments below a horribly loud aerobic session 20ft away and so many newbie resolution makers in here I can't workout next to my girlfriend. :(

I have a headset on to drown some of the noise and a magazine on the treadmill face so I can't see the time I don't have to workout.

Once I'm done, I have to drive back to the apartment, shower and finish up the homework for tomorrow, only to wake up at 0545 to do it again. :(

Why is relaxing only in sleep (if you don't wake up to a bad dream or jets overhead? )

Perfection is an illusion...

2006-01-25T16:32:00.000-08:00

As long as I can remember I've strived for perfection in everything I do. I constantly wonder, "Why it's never obtainable."

"If you try hard enough you can do anything", unfortunately, you could lose everything trying.
Is trading up or changing worth sacrificing everything?

What dictates, who and why we are, and why is it (if) dictated the way it is?

Society? The pressures of? What?

Random mobile thought...

2006-01-25T13:54:00.000-08:00

Can we escape connectivity?

With the network we've created today everything is tied together somehow. Six Degrees, is it really that far apart?

Beginning...

2006-01-25T12:48:00.000-08:00

I'd love to just whip out my old poems and transfer them all here, it would be a start. However, since they're all in a traditional format that would take some time.

For now, I will simply state, if this enables me to survey life and input what I think, when I think it, and how I want to as easily as it seems from the sign up page, then hooray for anyone who needs an outlet and hooray for me!

As for current activities, I've got to get back to the homework and keep on top of things. I hate getting behind, or walking the line. I'd rather be early than on time and never late!

The current project would be my thesis statement: Where to go from there?

Curiosity:

Do we edit our blogs as much as we think or edit our normal conversations in life? Do you edit your personal hand written journal?

Note:

Try not to let society overwhelm what you think, and how you express it. At the same time, be honest with yourself and attempt to improve for man, not yourself or any one person or thing. We obviously have to be able to live life to our fullest (not its fullest) but at the same time take into consideration what we do in our life that changes others and the way they live theirs.

... if this makes you think, research copyleft and expand on it's concept, we all have to start somewhere.