Odds, Ends and Miscellany

Sports Package

2012-01-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Posted by Von Battle

My husband had the direct tv albuquerque site up and was showing me different packages. He was really pushing for the sports channels package. He likes nearly all sports it seems. He wants to be able to watch tennis matches, basketball games, football games and he said he would even like to watch things like diving. I asked him when he would have time for me or anything else! I was just teasing him because I know how much he enjoys sports. He played many of them in school. He was on the football team in high school and played center on the basketball team. He always talks about the year the basketball team won the local district championships. They ended up going to the state competition, but lost in a heartbreaking game. He definitely already talks about sports a majority of the time. He will read articles on different websites to figure out who won what game and what happened in each. I think he would like to watch the games instead. Watching a game and reading about it is a very different experience. His first choice would be going to every game, but since we can’t afford that, I think the sports channel package may be a good idea after all.

Home

2011-11-16T21:38:00.001-07:00

Contribution by Terrance Kirby

We got high speed internet service in Rayville when we bought our new home and moved there recently. Our new town is really small, but my husband and I were ready to move to a slower paced lifestyle. We bought a two story farmhouse that was built in 1912. I have been doing a lot of reading on the internet about historic preservation and how to update our home to keep the structure and integrity true. I have used the satellite internet to order several light fixtures that are true to the time period. They have been rewired to keep up with the current electricity regulations, but they are absolutely beautiful. The glass is all hand blown and they are made of bronze. I ordered the sconces off of Ebay and the chandelier that is in the living room, I ordered from someone that I met on one of the preservation websites. I am going to love fixing up our new home. We just can’t wait until we have some visitors.

frozen internet

2011-09-15T06:47:00.000-06:00

Thanks for the guest post by Jo Levy

My internet always freezes and messes up when I need it the most. I swear technology loves to teach you a lesson when you procrastinate. I had a proposal due for work. I finished it pretty early the night before but wanted to leave the proof-reading for the morning. The truth is that I was worn out and wanted to take a break and watch my Sundaynight shows. While I was watching tv, I was also surfing the net. I just shut my laptop ( not shut it down). So when I got up two hours early to finish my work, it was frozen. The internet browser was up and stuck on the website www.AllHomeSecurity.com. I tried everything. It wouldn’t restart or shut off. I couldn’t close the internet browser. While the browser was up, no other applications would pull up. I even tried “control-alt-delete” and I have a mac! So I had to go to work and explain the situation. He laughed and said, “put it off to the last minute?” It was mortifying!

Finalizing our Disney Plans for our weekend trip

2011-07-05T11:17:00.001-06:00

Guest post written by Karen White

I think that every time that I've ever been to Disney World, it's been for just a weekend. But for me, it's just one of those places where after I've been there for 48 hours I've had enough and I'm ready to get out. I really don't see how people can spend a whole week there for vacation. There's plenty of stuff to do, but that would just be way too overwhelming. Right now I'm working on planning a weekend trip for my husband and I there, which I think is just the way to go.

That means though that you have to know exactly where you want to go and what you want to do while you're there. But I'm pretty good at planning and have been working on that. While I was working on that, I ran across the site wirelessinternetproviders.net and after I looked through it a little bit, I decided to sign up for one of the internet packages on there for my home service.

I have some pretty intense Disney plans, meaning that I have everything down to timing. It never quite works out, but at least that's something we can aim for and try to stick to.

China Bound

2011-05-03T15:34:00.002-06:00

Written by my friend Teodoro Martin

Ever since I got wireless internet at home from http://www.Clearwirewimax4g.com I’ve been looking at travel websites nonstop. I don’t know why, but I’m suddenly overcome by a deep desire to visit China, my parents’ homeland. My mother has long wanted to go back, so I’m thinking about putting a trip together for the family. So far I’ve researched flights, which are long and expensive, and different things to do after we get out of Beijing. I think my mom would really like to do a Li River Cruise and my dad would appreciate the big city! of Hong Kong. I can’t wait for the food, to tell you the truth. I hear the Peking duck is to die for and I’ve never met a dumpling I didn’t like! We’ll probably spend a few days with my paternal grandparents outside of Xi’an, which is nice because the Terra Cotta Warriors are near there as well. My parents are sure to be over the moon about this trip and I’m going to be happy to give it to them. It will be their birthday, New Year and anniversary present combined!

Stay Safe and Stay Warm!

2011-02-23T17:37:00.001-07:00

(Content by Sol Rosales)

If you find yourself in an area of the US that is not usually cold and you are not prepared, it can be difficult and unsafe when it gets really cold. There are some easy things you can do to stay warm and safe.

Clothing is a big issue in the winter. If it snows and you need to go out, but do not have winter clothes, there are some simple things you can do. First of all, wear your warmest shoes, wear two pairs of socks, and wrap a plastic bag around your feet and secure with a rubber band for added warmth. To keep hands warm, wear two socks as mittens if you have no gloves. For your head, the most important thing is to keep your ears warm. Ise a bandana or headband to cover your ears to avoid frostbite.

With a little creativity, you can keep warm. And if you absolutely have to drive, be careful and never stomp on the brakes. Make sure you set your home alarm from besthomesecurity.com before leaving your home. Good luck in the chilly weather, and stay warm.

Tips for Mother's Day Gifts

2010-04-20T22:41:00.006-06:00

Other than cards and possibly a meal at a restaurant, flowers are one of the most popular gifts to give for Mother's Day. But there is a bit of a trick to it, especially if you have the flowers delivered. Here are some tips to help you make sure Mom gets those flowers in time.

Plan ahead. Don't procrastinate this (guys, especially). Mother's Day arrangements and specials are usually available to pre-order weeks in advance. Decide what you're going to give before you find yourself scrambling at the last minute.
Schedule your delivery as far in advance as possible. Having delivered flowers for three different Mother's Day weekends, I can tell you that the two days before Mother's Day are absolute chaos for flower shops. Last minute orders are far more likely to get lost in the shuffle. The more time you give the florist to prepare, the more likely Mom is going to get that arrangement on time and in good shape. (You might also get a cheaper rate, too; demand makes the prices go up on holidays.)
Don't be afraid to schedule an early delivery. Mother's Day is on a Sunday, when most flower shops are closed anyway. Even if you can get the flowers delivered on Sunday, you'll likely pay a far higher premium for delivery. Mom will enjoy those flowers just as much on Saturday, or even Friday.
When ordering online, double-check to make sure your provider uses qualified florists close to where Mom lives, and that the florist uses the freshest cut flowers. A good cut arrangement should last at least a week; plants, of course, should last longer. Check with your online merchant to determine if there is any sort of freshness guarantee.

Follow these tips, and you're certain to make this Mothers Day special for Mom.

Funny News Gaffes

2010-03-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes news bloopers are the funniest...

Love this Band

2010-03-01T22:02:00.001-07:00

I saw Mumford and Sons play on Letterman, and loved 'em. Brits playing bluegrass? Who'da thunk? :) This YouTube video helped me relive the moment.

Time's Running Out, Guys! Get Those Flowers Ordered!

2010-02-10T19:42:00.004-07:00

Have you ordered those flowers yet?

I've been harping on this, but we guys are such last-minute people. And last-minute isn't gonna cut it for this. OR...if it does...it's gonna cost.

You see, not only does Valentine's day make the cost of flowers go up...but this year Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday, when most flower shops aren't even open! Guess what that does to the price? As if that isn't enough...if you wait to the last minute, depending on who you order from, you might get slapped with an additional fee on top of all that, just for the convenience.

Merchants aren't stupid. They know we wait till the last minute. And they know what to do about it when we do. :)

So don't wait any longer to get those roses ordered. You'll likely save money by not waiting until the last possible moment.

Although if you do...she's still worth it. :)

Twilight and Valentine's Day?? 1800flowers Thinks So...

2010-02-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

It is pretty amazing to me how much the Twilight books and movies have taken over. As if Twilight action figures, games, clothes, jewelry and handbags weren't enough--with a dedicated page on Amazon to sell all of it--now you can order Twilight Valentine's Day Flowers?

I never would have thought that it would be romantic to send a vampire-themed flower arrangement. But I suppose that's what makes the Twilight stories so unique. A vampire story that makes the ladies swoon. Who would have thought?

1800Flowers.com is offering Twilight-themed flower arrangements for your girl for Valentine's Day. And with the obvious price hikes that happen with flowers this time of year, MSNBC recently mentioned 1800flowers.com for standing out among the competition regarding their transparency and honesty in their flower prices.

Guys, if your girl likes Twilight, don't try to explain it. Just go with it. Get her--um--vampire flowers. :)

'Tis the Season for Flowers--Order Them Early

2010-02-06T21:30:00.005-07:00

As Valentine's Day approaches, you can almost feel the flower companies ramping up--and tensing up. This is their busiest time of year. I used to drive a delivery van for a flower shop in another state, and they keep dropping hints that they'd like me to come back and drive for them this week. :)

From first-hand experience, I can tell you--don't wait until Valentine's Day to order flowers for your sweetheart, even if the website or florist says they can take last-minute orders. The closer it gets to the day, the more orders they have to deal with, and the better the chance that a last-minute order of flowers is going to fall through the cracks. The sooner you place the order, the easier it is for the company to prepare your arrangement and plan the delivery.

So no...this Valentine's Day I won't be delivering flowers. But trust me--order them early.

Frank Hanna and the Importance of Philanthropy

2010-01-31T18:37:00.004-07:00

FreeDictionary.com defines "philanthropy" as "the spirit of active goodwill toward others as demonstrated in efforts to promote their welfare." It's more than just giving money; it's doing things to promote the welfare of others, which often includes lots of money. This is why philanthropy often originates with religious groups as well as business people--and why so often religion and business find common ground in philanthropy.

Frank Hanna is a merchant banker, entrepreneur and author. He is also one of the most prominent Catholic philanthropists around--a good example of what can happen when religion and business join hands together.

Philanthropists give for a variety of reasons, and I cannot say some do not do it with selfish motives. But regardless of the motive, there can be little doubt with so many people impoverished and underprivileged in this world that philanthropy is highly important. Philanthropists are people who have the resources to make a difference in the lives of many people--and the heart to do it. They have the ability and foresight to effect change in ways that governments can't (or won't), and can work that change with far fewer constraints. This is why philanthropists like Frank Hanna and others have the potential to do such good.

But the reality is, because philanthropy isn't just about money (as the dictionary just told us) we all have the capability of being philanthropic. We don't have to be wealthy (although that helps); we just need a big heart that looks out for the other guy, and an eye to see where we can make a difference--and the courage to make that difference when we see it. Maybe we could all borrow a page or two from Frank Hanna's playbook. We can all be philanthropists.

Destination Weddings according to Steve Stevanovich

2010-01-31T17:56:00.004-07:00

A wedding, when planned and executed well, can be one of the most special moments in a couple's life. For some, a "destination wedding" --that is, having the wedding in an exotic or beautiful location away from home--can make it even more special.

If you are one of those who might be considering a destination wedding, Steve Stevanovich has a few opinions.

For starters, Steve Stevanovich recommends Turtle Island, located in the South Pacific--a pristine island destination that is so secluded that only 14 couples can be accommodated on the island at once, making it a near perfect honeymoon spot. Other tropical paradises he recommends include Jeju Island in South Korea, and Aruba. For those who want a more southwest feel to their wedding, he cites Santa Fe, New Mexico, or Utah's Zion National Park as great places. Or for those who just want the excitement of the city, Steven Stevanovich recommends New York City as a wedding destination.

Wherever you have a destination wedding, planning is key. It's always wise to hire a coordinator who specializes in destination weddings to help you plan it out and avoid any mishaps, if possible.

1800flowers Not Just for Valentine's Day

2010-01-31T17:24:00.002-07:00

I used to deliver flowers for extra money, and I can tell you that the couple of days leading up to Valentine's Day and Mother's Day are the busiest flower days of the year. We almost always had to have three or four other drivers during those three or four days to accommodate the load.

Lots of folks nowadays use Internet outlets like 1800flowers.com during these times of year, because it's so obvious that our wives (and mothers) deserve flowers. That's a good thing. But those two days aren't the only two days of the year where flowers are an appropriate gift. If you (almost) forgot your anniversary, for example, 1800flowers has appropriate arrangements that can be sent the same day. Or perhaps you know someone who just had a baby, or is having a birthday. Flowers are great for those occasions, too.

Obviously 1800flowers isn't the only place you can order flowers. There are other Internet sites like Proflowers, Ftd or Bloomnet, and others, too--or you can just go to your local florist. One thing to remember, though, is that if you order flowers through one of the websites, be sure that company works with local florists to make and deliver your arrangements, like 1800flowers does. Cheaper flower outlets may promise a lot, but the flowers don't last. Cut flowers from a local florist will usually last a week or more.

And that goes for any time of year--not just Valentine's day. :)

Revenue Disclosure Statement

2010-01-15T14:12:00.002-07:00

In the interest of disclosure, I'd like my readers to know that occasionally I am paid by certain vendors or agencies to make mention of their products or services on this blog, or to write about certain topics. However, I'd like to assure you of the following:

Space and mention on my blog is occasionally for sale, but my opinion is definitely NOT for sale. If the vendor does not allow me the freedom to express an honest opinion (positive or negative), I decline the offer. The reader has my assurance that if I speak positively or negatively about anything, the opinion is my own. If I recommend a product to you, you can trust that I honestly believe it to be a good product.
If at any time I accept an affiliate offer (meaning I am paid a commission if you purchase any product I happen to recommend), I will specifically mention that I am an affiliate of that company.
I will never knowingly publish a falsehood about a product, person or otherwise. If you read it here, and it is not opinion, it is truth, to the best of my knowledge and understanding. (I do, however, reserve the right to be mistaken.)

RENEW International--Breathing New Life into Old Traditions

2009-12-30T15:38:00.006-07:00

I'm not a Catholic, although I am a Christian. And I know the church in general has had a long and sometimes colorful history, certain things everyone wishes we could all just erase. But still, I think there is something about the long history of the Catholic church that intrigues me. Something has made it last this long, after all. :)

But traditions for their own sake, no matter what they are, can grow stale. Whenever you do something just for the sake of doing it, it goes dead after awhile. That's where organizations like RENEW International come in.

The whole idea behind RENEW International, which began over 30 years ago, is to come alongside the Catholic church worldwide to help revitalize and renew the spiritual life of its members--to breathe new life, as it were. It does so by providing a wide range of programs and learning materials--programs geared toward youth, young adults, small groups, and much more--all designed to rekindle the heart behind the traditions.

RENEW International estimates that in its history it has impacted the lives of over 25 million people in 23 nations, helping foster renewal in over 150 Catholic dioceses around the globe.

Sakwinder Narwal and Hobbies I Don't Have

2009-12-30T14:49:00.003-07:00

I'm not a fisherman. I tried it one time as a kid and found it incredibly boring. Since then, it's always been my idea of nothing to do. I have patience for a lot of things, but trying to get a fish to bite a hook is not one of those things I have patience for. So at the least, I'm intrigued by people who get such a kick out of fishing.

Of course, it's possible the reason I'm not into fishing is I was not taught properly--I was never shown what the big deal is about fishing by someone who loves the sport. Maybe if I'd been taught by someone like Sakwinder Narwal, I'd have a different opinion.

Sakwinder Narwal has a passion for fishing that is intriguing, to say the least. He knows the sport in and out--he knows the eating habits of more species of fish than I probably know exist, what baits to use, and the proper technique. He's fished in the deep sea, and in the marshes of Louisiana, and many other places in between. It takes a real enthusiast to do that.

The more knowledge you have about how to do something, I guess the better you are at doing it. But it takes more than that--because honestly, you won't invest yourself into that kind of knowledge unless you are passionate about it. Sakwinder Narwal has a passion for fishing that I don't understand. But I do understand that kind of passion in general, and that to be truly good at something you need to be passionate about it. I guess it's just another challenge that we shouldn't be driven by our passions, but we should be guided by them. The best way to be good at what we do is to do what we love.

Gina Penzarella, Transplanted New Yorker

2009-12-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

We make choices based on our priorities. In our culture, the choice of where we live or what we do for a living often is based on how much money we can make--the whole "American dream" thing. But sometimes the choice that seems most obvious isn't the one that will make us happiest.

Take Gina Penzarella, for instance. She's a native New Yorker, a businesswoman, a bridal shop owner. A knack for business and a working knowledge of formal fashion sounds like the perfect combination for a native New Yorker to open up shop right there in New York City; that's where the clients are, that's where the "money" is. Right?

But that's not what Gina Penzarella did. Her bridal shop, Footlights Boutique & Co., Inc., is located in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, and is one of the most popular stores of its kind in the region.

So why not New York City? Why Pennsylvania? Because for some reason, Gina Penzarella was drawn to the beauty and lifestyle of the Lehigh Valley. She's a businesswoman, so naturally making money is part of what she does. But perhaps she wanted something more than just money; so she transplanted herself and her expertise, to a place that made her happy. And she does good business there, apparently because she's good at what she does.

I heard of someone else just today whose family chides her because she'd rather make music than get a "real job". She's highly educated and could make a lot of money with her other acquired skills. But she'd rather do what she loves.

I guess there's more to life than just the American dream. Some choices won't get you more money, but they will make you more happy.

Frank Hanna III and the Role of Faith in Business

2009-12-29T15:00:00.002-07:00

In our culture, it seems we like to compartmentalize things--keep them separate from each other. We keep our personal life separate from our professional life (which in some cases is good); we keep our faith in a corner for Sunday mornings (or whenever we happen to worship); we appropriate "times" for things and focus on only one thing at once--family "time", work "time", etc. The world doesn't always work that way, though; lots of things bleed over into one another, and they should. Over-compartmentalizing can cause us to fragment our character as well as our time. This is why a person of faith can do something that is selfish or unethical, or causes harm or loss to someone else, and justify it by saying, "It's just business."

Frank Hanna III doesn't quite see things that way, especially when it comes to faith and business. A merchant banker and successful businessman, he speaks often about the role of faith in business, especially when it comes to philanthropy. Frank Hanna has recently written a book called What Your Money Means. He's also an advocate for education and religious liberty, and has helped form three Catholic schools.

Apparently, Frank Hanna doesn't see business, freedom, education and faith as separate compartments to be dealt with separately. They all inform one another.

Paul Offit and Questions of Science

2009-12-29T11:41:00.001-07:00

Science is basically the investigation of the natural world, to see and know how it works. It's a pursuit of truth. We determine things scientifically by questioning, experimenting, notating results, and drawing conclusions from those results. True science, though, is apolitical and objective--meaning it doesn't have a foregone conclusion when it begins testing. Unfortunately, more and more we see politics and agendas invading science, until it becomes unclear when a scientist says something whether he/she has spun the data according to what he/she wants it to say.

One unfortunate thing about media is that when something is said loud enough and long enough, people begin to believe it, regardless of whether it is true. Agendas in science tend to come out in the media so that certain things are presented as scientifically accurate, even if the data doesn't support it.

Just ask Dr. Paul Offit, Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Children's Hospital of Philadephia, and co-inventor of the rotavirus vaccine. He's written a book called Autism's False Prophets, in which he says that there is no scientific basis to the growing speculation that vaccinations cause autism.

Paul Offit's background in vaccinations is extensive. Moved by a passion to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, he's spent the past 30 years as a pediatrician and researcher. His work on the rotavirus vaccine earned him the Jonas Salk Medal from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, among other accolades.

So is Paul Offit's book agenda-free? Who knows? But if we are going to be true to the science behind this issue, we will suspend opinion and look for an honest assessment of the facts before drawing a conclusion.

NES Employment Solutions--Making the Connection

2009-12-01T13:43:00.003-07:00

In tough economic times, jobs can be more difficult to find--but they are out there. It just takes a bit of creative thinking--and networking. Especially networking.

Enter NES Employment Solutions. They aren't a typical employment agency; in fact, they don't have local branches. Rather, they are a network of employers, staffing agencies and recruiters, providing a large base of jobs in ten major metropolitan areas throughout the United States in a variety of fields. Most of the connection work is done via the Internet, until a hiring manager in your area calls you. Because of this networking aspect, there is a much wider pool of opportunities than if you work with one agency alone.

Job seekers don't pay a fee at NES Employment Solutions, although there are premium services available if you want them. The company revenue comes from contracts with the hiring entities, so you don't have to pay to find a job. Basically all that's needed from you is the typical pre-employment information, including a resume, which is placed on file and forwarded to the folks handling the hiring in your area.

Simply put, NES Employment Solutions is about connecting employers with employees. Networking is almost always essential these days to finding a good career, and that's what seems to be the greatest advantage to working with NES.

State Flowers and Ashley Stevanovich

2009-12-01T07:45:00.004-07:00

For centuries, flowers have communicated something to us. In earlier times, when a man sent a woman flowers, he would choose specific blossoms to represent specific messages. When a state selects a certain flower as its official flower, it sends a message, too. Flowers can change symbolism and meaning for us--but they do mean something. When Colorado chose the Rocky Mountain columbine as its state flower, it meant something. Same with Louisiana's choice of the magnolia, or the sunflower of Kansas. Perhaps this sense of meaning is why Ashley Stevanovich takes an interest in flowers--state flowers in particular.

In fact, state flowers are for some reason of particular interest to Ashley Stevanovich, for reasons perhaps only she knows. Of all flowers--why state flowers in particular? But that isn't really the point; the point is that flowers say something to us. State flowers say something to the states who chose them. And state flowers obviously say something to Ashley.

So next time you're traveling in some state and come across the state trivia, and find out that the state flower of Wyoming is the Indian Paintbrush--don't just pass it off. Take a minute to think about what it might mean. Or just ask Ashley Stevanovich.

Ashley resides in south Florida, which means her state flower is the Orange Blossom.

Shasta Pools: a business covering the bases

2009-11-30T20:40:00.003-07:00

If you live in Arizona, particularly the Phoenix area, chances are pretty good you've heard of Shasta Pools. In a state known for hot summers, and a need for places to cool off, they are the number one pool business in Arizona.

But there is more to having a good business than just selling a lot of product. There are other factors, too--like employee relations, a commitment to the community, a sense of social responsibility, and good stewardship of the environment. These are the pillars that give a business stability well beyond the profit margin.

To that end, Shasta Pools has other accolades besides being the largest or best-known pool business in the state. Their care for their employees has garnered them a vote as one of the best places in Arizona to work, according to the Business Journal. They are also known for their support of the local community, giving to numerous local projects and charities. And this year they announced a new geothermal technology promoting renewable energy and significantly lowering consumers' carbon footprint.

From all appearances, Shasta Pools isn't just selling pools. They are a business covering the bases.

RENEW International: In Support of the Catholic Church

2009-11-30T20:15:00.003-07:00

RENEW International is a Catholic ministry that utilizes various resources to encourage spiritual renewal within the Catholic Church. Through various arms of ministry, programs, and providing needed materials, RENEW International offers vital support to over 150 dioceses in 23 nations, affecting over 25 million people thus far over a 28-year span.

Among the numerous supporting ministries offered by the organization are Why Catholic?, an adult catechism course; Theology On Tap, a program geared toward young adults; and Healing the Body of Christ, created to speak to the abuse scandals that rocked the Catholic Church a few years ago.

Highly committed to excellence and transparency, RENEW International has committed itself to the Standards of Excellence, consisting of 55 criteria for ethics and accountability, and takes measures to ensure the highest standards of stewardship for the donations entrusted to the ministry.

Gina Penzarella: details others might miss

2009-11-30T20:04:00.002-07:00

When it comes to bridal and formal wear for women, it's very helpful when you have the kind of person who notices the small details others might miss. It's a characteristic that can make the difference between beautiful and unique. Gina Penzarella, owner of Footlights Boutique in Easton, PA, has built one of the most popular bridal shops in her area from this extra-mile approach.

Among the extra steps Gina Penzarella takes to help give her customers a unique, stand-out look for their special occasion are to provide a huge selection of styles and fashions. But for proms, she takes it a step further: she keeps track of the high school girls that come into her store, and sells only one of each type of dress per school, to ensure that no girl who buys from her will find another girl wearing the same dress at the prom.

Gina Penzarella carries this penchant for the unnoticed details beyond her shop. Born and raised in New York City, she noticed the beauty of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley and chose to settle there. She also supports Defenders of Wildlife, the SPCA, and Catholic Charities.

Gina's eye for detail highlights an important truth that goes beyond her boutique, and that is: the details most of us miss don't just magically appear. They are there all along, if we'll just take the time to notice. Things of beauty in nature, noticing when someone we care about is hurt or upset by how they hold their head...all these things are details that can be easily missed if we're too busy or just too lazy to look with fresh eyes. Think about it.

Fishing Enthusiast Sak Narwal

2009-11-30T15:57:00.003-07:00

Sak Narwal knows a thing or two about fishing. He's done it most of his life.

Actually, he's more than a fisherman; Sak Narwal considers himself an "amateur ichthyologist". He is obsessed with where they live and what they feed upon, both salt and freshwater varieties. He has an extensive collection of rods, reels and lures, and has used them in places ranging from Alaska to Florida, and just about every place in between. He has fished for trout, and he's fished for shark. Name a variety of fish, and chances are he'll be able to tell you something about where to find it and the best lure to use. Not your run-of-the-mill angler who trots down to the pond on the back forty once in awhile. He fishes almost every week, and loves everything about it.

Why this avid interest? He likes to eat fish, but he doesn't fish for food; he practices catch-and-release. Instead, Sak Narwal says he loves being in touch with nature when he goes fishing. "Fishing has taken me to some of the wildest and most beautiful natural settings,", he says. "There is nothing as relaxing and satisfying as catching fish on a beautiful day on a beautiful body of water.”

Regina Spektor, and My Current Favorite Video

2009-11-22T07:22:00.001-07:00

This is currently one of my favorite vids right now...and the lyric is pretty powerful, too. :)

OneRepublic's "Waking Up" Releases Tuesday

2009-11-16T21:03:00.003-07:00

OneRepublic, one of my favorite bands, is releasing their new CD Waking Up this week. Here's a video of a single from the new record.

Holiday Idea--1800Flowers.com Gift Baskets

2009-11-11T15:22:00.004-07:00

Over the past few years I've moonlighted here and there as a flower delivery driver. It wasn't great pay, but I loved the work. Everyone smiles at you when you're bringing flowers. What's not to love about that kind of job?

Flowers are great for every occasion, especially holidays; and 1800Flowers.com is an easy way to order and send flowers, and they typically use local florists to ensure same-day delivery and the freshest flowers. One thing I know about flowers is that you want them from a florist rather than getting the Wal-mart special bouquet--and I don't say that because I used to deliver for florists. Good fresh-cut flowers last a week or more, and credentialed florists know how to pick 'em. Literally.

Another holiday idea also comes from the folks at 1800Flowers.com: gift baskets! So many cool things can come in gift baskets: fruit, wines, cheese, plush animals, and--my personal fave--chocolate. Can't make it to the relatives for Thanksgiving? (Or made a lame excuse why you couldn't be there?) Sending a well-designed and decorated gift basket with wine or sweets might be just the thing to keep you in good graces.

You Can't Lend Your Vacuum Cleaner to Your Neighbor in Denver, Colorado

2009-11-10T17:04:00.002-07:00

Dumblaws.com is a fun site that documents laws actually on the books in various cities and states. Many of these laws are obsolete, but have never been officially repealed. Here are just a few of the laws you probably didn't know you were breaking:

It is against the law in Denver, Colorado, to lend your vaccum cleaner to your neighbor.
You may not keep your donkey in a bathtub in the State of Georgia.
Witches are banned in the State of Massachusetts. So are Quakers. (So much for freedom of religion....)
Beating your wife is legal in Huntington, West Virginia--but only if you do so on a Sunday on the courthouse steps.
Bartenders in the State of Oklahoma are required to prohibit patrons from pretending to have sex with a buffalo. (Is it legal to actually do it???)
If you are one-armed piano player, you are not allowed to charge for your services in the State of Iowa. Oh--and kisses in the State of Iowa have a five-minute limit.
In Omaha, Nebraska, it's illegal to sneeze or burp in church.
You may not ride your bicycle in a swimming pool in Baldwin Park, California.
You can be fined $500 in Louisiana for having a pizza delivered to a friend without telling them first.
Sleeping outdoors on a refrigerator is illegal in Pennsylvania.

Go to dumblaws.com to see more--but be advised: this site is addictive. :)

Taylor Swift on SNL--too good not to share

2009-11-08T20:05:00.004-07:00

Kanye West has turned out to be the best thing that happened to Taylor Swift's career--that is, besides Taylor Swift. :)

Carl Sgro: As with fishing, so with SEO-SEM

2009-11-05T21:44:00.002-07:00

Ask 25-year business development veteran Carl Sgro what it takes to be a tournament level bass fisherman, and you'll probably get a clue as to what makes him successful in helping his business clients find real growth through the Internet via SEO and SEM.

The correlation? Carl Sgro studies fish! He learns their habits and behavior, so he knows a little bit about what it takes to catch one. In the same way, it is his extensive knowledge of the inner workings and behavior of Internet search engines that enables him to develop effective Search Engine Marketing solutions for his clients in healthcare, retail, real estate and other related fields. His most recent feat was taking Name Engine, Inc. from startup to a multimillion acquisition by Verisign, Inc. in only 18 months.

Carl Sgro knows how to catch fish. He also knows how to generate growth through the Internet. The strategy for both is the same: learn how it behaves, and you'll know how to catch it.

Ron Paul yesterday on Fox Business

2009-11-05T11:53:00.002-07:00