W e l c o m e

Friendship Last Forever!

2008-01-06T08:26:00.003-08:00

Por vezes penso em amigos perdidos. Sinto-os como espinhos que se me atravessam na garganta, como lágrimas que gelaram antes de escorrer.
E então lembro-me do que um amigo é e do que não é um amigo. Um amigo é amigo sempre, não é só quando precisa de nós ou quando nós precisamos dele. É aquela pessoa a quem se liga só para dizer olá, só para lhe ouvir a voz; com quem se vai almoçar para por a conversa em dia, para aproveitar a companhia; é aquele que te compreende com um só olhar, que lê nas entrelinhas de um sorriso triste, que ouve entre os soluços o silêncio que nos vai na alma.
E aí relembro que não vale a pena sofrer, porque não existe tal coisa como amigos perdidos. Amigo que é amigo não se perde, nunca, nem se esquece.
Então, os espinhos como que desaparecem, sem deixar rasto, e o gelo estilhaça sem deixar qualquer marca.

Para mim, um amigo é aquele que te compreende com um olhar, que te anima sem palavras e que, com um simples gesto, faz tudo valer a pena.

Into Fiction

2008-01-06T08:26:00.001-08:00

I do complain often how I emerge myself in books and series and animes. And people do call my attention to that.
I do distract myself a lot, my thoughts wandering into remembrances of movies I watched and books I read; I do spend most of my day daydreaming; I do have lots of fantasies living in my head.

And I know why. I know I do not have a dysfunctional family, there are worst. But I did have a fatherless childhood. I hardly remember any moment with my dad before the divorce. After all, I was only 4 then. My sister, though, she was already 9 and she felt it much harder. I can understand that. What I can't understand is how 15 damn years later she's still an unbearable pain in the ass, and getting worst. The tension in my house between her and my mom is tangible, you can almost split it with a knife. Dinners are either silent or end in a fight. I'm often edgy at home, and my mom even worst. And no matter how much it hurts me, I am aware that the one this is more painful to is my mom and she's been through so much, she doesn't deserve a daughter like my sister. So I try to compensate for her (and I fail so many times!) and I try to support her and to be as good a daughter I can be. But I get tired too and moody. Sometimes I snap too. Even still, when I do have a great day or even a not-so-bad day, I try to spread and share that happiness. And again I fail, mostly because my sister is completely immune to other people's feelings. I am, in the end, the joy of the household. Or I try to be, at least for my mother, because she deserves it more that anyone.

And that is why I bury myself in fiction. I have to get out, to blow off steam, to hang on to something and since a very young age, books and tv series have been my escape. From the Disney comic books to the Sandman Library, from Tom & Jerry to CSI, from Harry Potter to Neil Gaiman, the purpose is the same. To escape to somewhere else.
And now I need it more than ever. College is hard and not everything goes as easy as Genetics; I'm having a best friend crisis; my father's farther than ever; and home feels less like it everyday. (Not everything's wrong, though, I still have very good friends who really are there for me and that can be reasonable when I can't and I'm really making new friends at school and feeling really motivated =) )

But I'm used not to have someone by me. I'm used to face things alone or to escape to fiction. And it works. And I'm not complaining anymore about it, because there are times that not even your friends can help you with the twists and turns of life. (wow! great finishing sentence,huh? XD) And I'm not saying that fiction can, but it turns it bearable.

ps: I openned my heart and soul here, I rarely talk about this stuff so if you're just going to flame or blame me for this (yes, this time I might just be talking to you) just don't. I won't publish anyway. Thank you.

These Days

2008-01-06T08:25:00.001-08:00

There are days that can be cloudy, rainy and stormy; days when a freaking blizzard could fall and I'd still feel warm and fuzzy inside. Days when I'm so blissful and energetic, I feel so witty and smart and confident; when I am really aware of how strong and lucky I am.
And there are those days when not even the clear blue sky, the golden bright sun and the warm colours of the fall can take the cold away from my heart; when no matter how many layers of clothing I'm wearing I still feel the chills and shivers at the end of my spine. Days when I feel so worthless and purposeless, when I feel like a misfit that can't really find a place to belong.

There are days when the simple thought of my friends and family makes me smile; it reminds me of how blessed I am they came into my life, how I could never have chosen better.
Then there are those days when it seems that no one really understands how I feel; when they seem so swamped in they're own problems that don't care about mine (and vice versa); days when no one really says what I need to hear. It's when I miss the most those that, somehow, I ended up leaving behind.

There are days when I see the world through the eyes of a happy child, so colourful and alive, huge and unexplored.
Yet, there are those days when I'm chocked by the indifference that surrounds me; when the world seems so small, not in size, but in heart.

There are days when I feel so gifted and capable of such amazing things. When I'm awed by my own ability to express myself with drawings, beside words. When how much I improved in the last years makes me proud.
Still, there are those days when my hands are so shaky I can't draw the angst or the anger I feel. Days when the words just won't come out.

Those days when the weight of all my past "traumas" and issues, of all my kinks and quirks fall on my shoulders. Days when all ancient wounds open and bleed; when all my fears come to haunt me at night. Days when everything seems to fall apart and crumble, when I can't find my strength or something to hold on to.

numb

2008-01-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

I don't know what happened.
I don't know what triggered it.
I don't know why I feel so angry, so desperate.
I don't know why I can't fight it.

All I know is I seem to alienate every person in the world who cares. And I can't even stop myself from doing it.
I don't think I ever hated myself as much as I hate myself right now. What about that for a New Year's resolution? Stop hating myself. I'm not sure I'll keep up to that.
Lately I just feel I disappoint everyone, including myself.

I feel so tired.
I can't sleep.
It just hurts. And even that is stopping. I'm going numb.

I guess I'm just fulfilling my own prophecy. I'm the one who said I'd end bitter and alone. I'm certainly working for that.
Now, not only I believe that I won't find someone who'll love me, I'll manage, somehow, to push away everyone that cares. I already doing it.
Most strange people leave me uncomfortable or I leave them uncomfortable, so I can't even make new good friends that can help me get through this.

And that's is why I hate myself. Because I suck at getting along, at keeping things light, at doing things right. That's where I fail, with people. And you can't live without them, 'cause no man is an island, right?

Are Marriage Records Useful?

2007-12-16T03:00:00.001-08:00

Marriage record is the legal document that is proof of marriage between couples. Marriage records are public records that can be accessed by anyone wishing to do so. Your personal proof of marriage record is the marriage license that you will receive through the church or from the registry for marriages.

Why is Marriage Record essential?

As you know, a marriage record is proof of marriage and is a useful document in dealing any legality concerning the marriage. Since these records are public, it helps you beginning much before your wedding. You can ascertain information through a marriage record search to know whether your partner has been previously married, divorced, etc.

Once you are married, obtaining a marriage license helps you in many ways. The marriage license is a part of a marriage record and can be accessed by any person who is perusing the records.

These records help you in getting a document that confirms that you are married to your spouse. If you are a woman and wants to change your name after marriage, it acts as a proof for your change of name. It also acts as a proof of parenthood of a child if you have one from a previous marriage.

These records also help you in conducting genealogy searches if you are trying to establish your family tree. It helps in knowing who some relative of yours was married to and may even be helpful in approaching the particular person if your relative is deceased and no more.

In special circumstances having a marriage record helps in safeguarding the marriage. If one of the couple is cheating on the spouse by having an affair and wanting to get remarried without the spouse and the person whom they are having the affair knowing, conducting a search of marriage records will ascertain that the person is already married. This will help in avoiding unpleasant circumstances at a later date.

If you are thinking that by obtaining a marriage license and by making your information public through marriage records it may fall into the hands of unscrupulous people, you need not be worried as the information that is available to the public does not reveal all your details and will only provide some information about you.

Therefore, having a marriage on record is always essential. If you have not got your marriage license and have your marriage on record, do it today. Who knows how it will help you in the long run.

Brian W. is a self-proclaimed expert in the court system and specializes in providing free information regarding public court records. For FREE ACCESS to his articles, just visit http://www.recordssitereviews.com/

Tips For Savings On Car Loans

2007-12-16T02:59:00.001-08:00

Obtaining car loans may sound like an easy process, but by following some basic rules, you can be sure of a good deal.

Car loans come right after you have agreed on the car price. Selecting the right car loan can be a very cumbersome process, especially if you are unaware of the loan application and approval procedures. Lack of knowledge about car loans and improper planning can cost you a lot of money in the car buying process.

Below Are Four Tips To Help You Get The Right Car Loan.

Research Before You Buy

Do a thorough research on the cars, which can fit your budget and requirements. A good research will enable you to make a better financial decision.Saving on car loans is much easier if you have a set budget for the car. You can always get on to the internet and compare rates and schemes of different car dealers.

Refer To Your Credit Record

Many people generally go for new car loans referring to finance magazines or news. These references will do no good if they do not stress on the importance of knowledge of your own credit record. You can get a copy of your record by contacting your credit bureau. You must not apply for car title loans if you are not aware of your credit record. Remember that any issue in your credit record is directly proportional to the interest rate of your car loan. Credit record is a document that has the basic information about an individual like name, security number, residence address, payment history and debts etc. potential employers or lenders.

Talk Like A Car Junkie

Sales representatives can go a little over the top if you are not able to understand the industry basics. However, if you know what your dealer is talking about, then the decision making will be far more accurate and thus, will enable you avail the right car loan.

Negotiate With The Dealer

Once you have followed all the above tips, you are prepared to negotiate the best interest rate on car loans available in the market. But before you finalize your loan, it is better to compare car loans provided by other lending institutions. A good market study will give you a good deal.

So before you actually decide to get one of these car loans for yourself, do your groundwork carefully to get the best deal on new car loans.

You had better have thorough knowledge of car loans before going for one for yourself. Do a thorough research refer to your credit record to get the best deal for new car loans and car title loans. For more information visit http://www.lowinterestcarloan.info.

Hunger and Cravings

2007-12-16T02:58:00.001-08:00

For 6 months, I’ve been paying a lot more attention to what I eat. I’ve also been working my body, sometimes much, much harder than I have in the past. Sometimes, watching what I eat is really hard. Sometimes, I completely lose it. Today was a perfect example of this.

I started the day all right. For breakfast, I had 16oz whole milk, 3oz fat free turkey breast, a slice of whole grain bread and just a little mayo. Added up, this was a 5 block meal on the zone diet. I ate at about 5:00 AM. At 9:00 AM, I had 3 oz turkey, 1/2 an avocado and 2 small granny smith apples. At 11:45 AM, I had 4-5 oz turkey, the other half of the avocado, several walnut halves and another 2 apples. I got home at about 2:30 PM.

When I got home, I was ravenous. I felt like I hadn’t eaten for days. Suddenly, I cracked and started devouring everything. 2 slices toast with copious butter and jelly. 4 oz turkey. 7-8 chocolate covered, peanut butter filled pretzel bites. 20 minutes later, I was still starving. I ate 7-8 peanut butter pretzel sandwiches and drank another 16 oz whole milk. Finally, 20 minutes later, I wasn’t hungry.

Now, it is 6:00 PM and I have a craving for food. This is different than when I got home though. This is a mental desire to be eating and has nothing to do with the stomach churning hole than demanded to be filled. I don’t understand either urge but I would call the earlier one hunger and this one a craving. I seem to be mostly successful fighting cravings but I collapse against hunger. For example, while I eat everything that was handy earlier, I’m not eating anything now.

I don’t understand how to fight hunger or even if I should. Should I refrain from eating and only eat to my specified schedule, no matter how hungry I feel? Is ravenous hunger an indication that I’m not giving myself enough fuel to support the muscle building that is happening. (This is possible as I’ve just finished 4 days of incredibly tough workouts.) Is there something I can eat to fill the void without destroying what I’m working so hard to achieve? What do you do when you are fighting hunger or cravings?

Opening Weekend Movies

2007-12-16T02:56:00.000-08:00

Alvin and the Chipmunks - Who really wanted to see a CG version of this rather lame cartoon series from the 80's? If you're saying "me me me!" then you deserve an Acme brand anvil to drop on your head. Shake it off though . . . or die, doesn't really matter to me. If you were asking for this movie to come out, then fuck you. And just what is going on with Jason Lee? He used to be my favorite actor some time ago. Dating all the way to "Mallrats". Sure, he does the Kevin Smith movie occasionally when the big movie studios decide to get their heads out of their asses, but the majority of the projects he gets involved in are kids movies. Didn't he just do the voice for "Underdog"? Sure, he might be making tons of cash while selling out, but I think he needs some sort of intervention.

I Am Legend - Finally, a movie that I've wanted to see for a long time comes out, and it's very likely I will catch this in theaters over the weekend. I don't even care that it's Will Smith that's starring in this. The movie just looks bad ass. This is what BAFW recommends you watch this weekend.

The Perfect Holiday - I get it. It's the holiday season. Christmas movies come out at this time. But I don't have to like it. These things should be relegated to coming out either straight to video or maybe debuting on a lame ass cable TV channel. You know, like Lifetime or WE. Don't go watch this, or any other Christmas themed movie this year. It's just a waste of your valuable dollars and time.

Henry Morrison

2007-12-16T02:55:00.002-08:00

With all the talk about Bush,Blair and now Brown.There has not been one word in the press or T.V.news about the death of Henry Morrison who died peacefully in his sleep this week at the grand old age107.I can hear you saying who is Henry Morrison.Well he was a composer that wrote many well known tunes,always under a none de plume.

Probably this is the reason he was not well known.Never-the less he wrote one of the best known songs in the English language and that being the Okie Cokie.Almost everyone knows that tune and has great fun dancing to it.But no, not one word about him in the press,and his family is very upset.Even more so that when the undertakers went to the house with a coffin to take him away to the funeral parlor.Everything was going okay until they put his left leg in ,then it went all crazy.Happy holidays Jim.

Opera versus Microsoft

2007-12-16T02:55:00.001-08:00

Todo mundo sabe do pega pra capar entre Microsoft (IE) e a Mozilla Fundation (Firefox), mas desta vez quem está na briga é a Opera Software, que mantém o bom e seguro navegador Opera.

A Opera Software, acusa a Microsoft de querer eliminar a concorrência ao incluir o Internet Explorer em todas as cópias do Windows.

A queixa foi entregue formalmente na Comissão Europeia na quarta-feira e alega que a Microsoft está abusando da sua posição dominante no mercado dos PCs, através da integração do Internet Explorer (IE) no Windows, impedindo a interoperabilidade por não adotar os padrões standards da indústria no IE. Esta é a mesma alegação feita pelo pessoal do Firefox, se não me engano.

O objetivo é que a CE obrigue a Microsoft a separar o IE do Windows, tal como aconteceu com o Windows Media Player, ou, em alternativa, que inclua browsers concorrentes no seu sistema. A Opera quer também que a Microsoft seja forçada a compatibilizar o IE com os standards da Web - um conjunto de normas, especificações técnicas e boas práticas para a construção de sites.

Esta é uma questão importante, já que, se os browsers não forem todos eles compatíveis com os mesmos standards, os webdesigners têm a tendência (eu não faço isso!) em desenvolver sites para o mais utilizado, ou seja, o IE. O que dá ao browser da Microsoft uma vantagem competitiva sobre os restantes.

A Opera defende que este processo é em nome de todos os consumidores que estão fartos de verem uma empresa monopolista dar as cartas. Precisa dizer mais alguma coisa? Apoiado!

Glad?

2007-12-16T02:54:00.001-08:00

You know those instances where you think the Lord is doing you a favor? Elder Bednard calls them "tender mercies". A.K.A. Getting your back. Jamie calls it "What a thoughtful favor. Thanks Lord."

Well it's actually very nice that the baby hasn't come yet because Alanna's got a nice, very runny nose. And it would be a big bummer to not want her too close to the baby. So, I'm in no rush. Hopefully Alanna can kick the runny-nose before the baby does come so it can be fun for Alanna to give her new sister kisses.

It's been nice, I've gotten some shopping done (better enjoy that while it lasts!), got more primary stuff done (preparing for our new 2008 teacher binders), put a soup in the freezer last night, and have even been doing some house organizing. And I'm feeling better now than a week or two ago, so who can complain!

...although I won't be sad to get rid of these bloated cankles.

Keeping your Car Clean

2007-12-16T02:53:00.001-08:00

Washing your car is not just about appearance. it can extend your vehicle's life.

First rinse off surface dirt. Then wash using a car shampoo. Don't use household detergents, which can corrode the paintwork. Clear drain holes and uttering of debris.

Consider investing in a pressure washer to reach the underside and wheel arches. Dry off with a towel or chamois. Don't wash your car when it's hot or the water may just evaporate leaving marks.

Two to four times a year, apply a was after washing. This adds a barrier to keep water out. If there's no handy water supply (or you just want to save water) look for products hat clean and polish in one go, without water.

Bad Breath

2007-12-16T02:52:00.001-08:00

As well as causing stress, bad breath can be exacerbated by stress. It can also be caused by throat and sinus infections or periodontal disease. Breath can also become foul from smoking, drinking alcohol and eating foods such as garlic.

But "bacteria in the mouth is the major cause of bad breath," says Anne Bosy, clinical and research director of the Fresh Breath Clinic in Toronto, Canada. "And some bacteria can cause odour that can be smelled from metre or so away."

Jiahui is troubled by her bad breath. Although she has not refrained from social interactions altogether, she has become particularly sensitive about other people's body language. "When is see someone rubbing his nose, I think it is because of my bad breath," she says. "I feel a bit paranoid and keep a certain distance from others."

All it took was a visit to her dentist to find that she suffers from severe periodontal disease - a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Now Jiahui carries a toothbrush and toothpaste with her, and takes the time to brush after every meal.

"I've consulted Chinese herbalists. I drink plenty of water, eat simple foods, cut down on spicy and fried food, and get plety of sleep," she says. "When my condition improves I'll feel a little more relaxed."

"It's important to practice good oral hygiene," Bosy says. "But once some bacteria set in, the problem may require antimicrobial mouthwashes, such as those containing zinc - which can alter the metabolism of the bacteria and prevent them from producing suphur, which has distinct odour - or those containing chlorhexdine, which destroys he bacteria."

Replying to Emails

2007-12-15T03:09:00.001-08:00

When replying to emails, always respond promptly and edit out unnecessary
information from a post you are responding to.

Responding promptly is the courteous thing to do. Don't let folks wonder if
you received the email or are ever going to respond to their communications.
Think about how quickly you would return a phone call or voice mail. Email
is no different especially considering most folks have expectations of a
faster response as email is received so quickly. Outside of any emergencies
such as surgery or lack of connectivity, always respond as soon as you can.
If you need more time to gather your thoughts, simply pop off an email
stating you are planning on responding in more detail and when.

Don't just hit the reply button and start typing. Edit out unimportant parts
of the email you are responding to and respond point by point.

Yes, there may be times where keeping in the entire previous email is
important, especially if you are adding folks to the conversation
via CC. But that is the rare occasion - again, use your common sense.

Editing your email is accomplished by deleting information from the
previous mail that is not necessary to continuing the conversation.
At the very least edit out email headers and signature files.
Lazy is hitting reply and sending a one word answer.... please.
Is your time more important than those you are corresponding with?
Aren't your associates or friends worth taking the time to make
communicating with you easy?

Especially when email conversations on the same topic are ongoing.
Why would you possibly want to have copies of the last 3-4 (or more)
emails added to the growing list of back and forth?
You make the person you are communicating with look for your response
amongst all the text. Be sure to hit the enter key twice before typing after

a previous email's comments. Doing so will ensure that your comments
are directly after the previous email's content you are replying to. The
recipient will then know exactly what part of their email your comments
were directed at and this will help with clarity in your reply and avoid
misunderstandings.

By not editing your email, your lack of understanding in regard to smooth
communications, bandwidth and trying to keep the online environment not
overloaded with unnecessary noise will be apparent. Always edit/delete what
is not necessary for the conversation to continue.
This is a skill well worth developing that over time can add tremendous
clarity to your communications.

As a courtesy to your fellow Netizens, please down edit your posts
keeping only what will contribute to the ongoing conversation.

Basics for virus protection

2007-12-15T03:03:00.002-08:00

Get an active program that is always "ON". This will catch any viruses as
they are being downloaded so they can be quarantined and cannot infect
your system.
Update your virus patterns daily or every time you log on. These updates
can be downloaded from the Web site of your virus software manufacturer.
Norton and most other AV programs have a scheduler to tell your computer
to do this automatically - how convenient!
You need to ensure your system is protected from the latest viruses which
may have just been discovered since last you were online.
New viruses are identified daily!
Never click on any attachment or an .exe
(example: Happy99.exe, free stuff, click here or ILOVEYOU) file attached
within an email without making sure the attachment has been checked for
viruses.
Even if the mail appears to come from someone you know very well!
They may unknowingly be infected and are not aware of the virus on their
system which has just spawned an email that has their name on it and is
addressed to you. The email may look like it is from your friend just to get

you to open it when in fact it is an email generated by a virus.

As a courtesy to your fellow Netizens, try to learn what this is all about -
ignorance is not bliss online.

Mike ~ It is a good day if I learned something new.

Natural Pain Management!

2007-12-15T03:03:00.001-08:00

Life in todays hectic society is going more and more in the direction of fast foods, sugar in all sorts of foods you would never think should be there, trans fatty acids, preservatives and pesticides, which we consume in large amounts every year. We even go so far as to invent foods, such as artificial sugars which your body may or may not recognize as actual food.

We are bombarded with hormones in most of our meats and dairy products. There is mounting evidence that many girls are maturing physically at a much younger age because of this.

With all this going on, its no wonder that our immune systems are on overload and physical ailments are growing in leaps and bounds. Pain in some cases, is what some peoples lives revolve around.

Lets look at pain. It is your signal that injury, disease or too much strain has occurred on the body. Without it you wouldnt know that something needs to be addressed. Even mild pain can limit your activities, which in turn can lead to a loss of strength, endurance and flexability.

Chronic pain can be on and off or be consistent. If you are like most people, youll reach for over the counter drugs or prescription drugs. This is what the drug companies would love for you to do.

If you suffer from pain there are many more options for you to explore than drugs or surgery. With vitamins, minerals and herbs lacking in our daily foods, you may want to consider a nutritionist to assist in establishing healthy diet and exercise program. Supplements, and organic foods, may improve your immune systems ability to repair the body and should reduce pain.

There are also other natural remedies that can enhance your nutritional handling such as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga.

I hope this helps.

Wilhelmina Jones is a freelance writer who was diagnosed with Lupus nearly 15 years ago. Though symptoms were severe at that time, through the use of diet and supplements for maintaining health and pain relief, she has remained symptom free ever since. Natural Pain Relief online Resource for Pain Relief http://www.painreliefdirectory.com.

The HD Media Future

2007-12-15T03:02:00.001-08:00

Everyone knows that media format wars have historical significance in the world of technology. Remember the most notorious battle between the Beta max and the VHS? The winner of such battles will make millions even billions. Later we had the upgrade of tape to CD, a revolution in music. In 1980 the Philips/Sony compact disc standard was finalized and nobody has looked back for the last 26 years (until mp3's came along).

Well as ever there is a new media battle but who will win again is yet unknown. This modern forest of technological mass has produced a new insurgency: THE HIGH DEFINITION war. Blu-ray vs HD-DVD are two competing formats which are eventually going to replace DVD's. As you look around at your local electric retailers you can see changes happening in the broadcast world, not only are we changing from our conventional CRT screens to Flat screen but also to HD ready TV. The impact this has on our lives is not as large as black and white to colour, but nevertheless a change that will definitely be a benchmark for future media.

Why New formats?

The reason we have introduced these new formats is that your traditional DVD can hold a maximum of 9.4 GB (Dual Layer) of information. This is not enough for HD broadcast as the information required is higher, being a resolution of 1920x1080. Blu-ray discs can hold 50 GB (Dual Layer) and HD-DVD 30 GB (Dual Layer).

These new discs cannot be played on normal DVD players but on new HD media players of which examples are Samsung BDP 1000 (Blu-Ray), Sony Playstation 3 (Blu-Ray), Toshiba HDXA1 (HD-DVD). This means spending more money for better resolution.

Price

This is always important especially when new models of media come out; at first it is always expensive as supply out strips demand. The players are expensive, the cheapest being the Playstation 3 supposedly retailing at 549. Blu-Ray media also being expensive; similar to DVD's when they first came out (taking inflation into consideration), blank media costing from 11.99 to 24.99.

To play a Blu-ray disc on a PC has brought about a price concern. The fact that you have to purchase a HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) Graphic card, along with a HD monitor, not to mention a Blu-ray Drive and media, controversially may bring about decrease in sales. This is presently being contested with new Laptops and PCs that are Blu-ray compatible, look at the New Vaio VGN-AR21S.

The HD players need to be up to scratch on price. The Toshiba HD-DVD player retailing at almost half the price of the Blu-ray Samsung player creates even more competition between the two media. This could encourage sales of HD-DVD over Blu-ray, even though it's rumoured that Toshiba will be making a loss initially.

Prices of movies doesn't seem to be as high as anticipated; a Blu-ray movie 'House of flying daggers' from amazon.com will set you back $19.95 (10.68). This may encourage sales. Movies in HD-DVD identical in price, yet Blu-ray is a larger size disc.

Upscaling

Another problem HD may face is that the new DVD players have the upscaling technology ie. DVD is played at 480p but upscalers upgrade the image to 720p or 1080i. This produces a picture which is of high quality to the untrained eye, in fact even the trained eye has difficulty distinguishing between the two. The difference is seen on a 50 inch HD projector and looking right up close. So the question is will 1080p be much different to 1080i? Will people fork out the added expense when they know that a cheaper DVD upscaler will create more or less the same effect?

media backup

software and Hardware companies have invested a lot of money in subsidising HD media. Samsung, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, LG, Sony, TDK, JVC and Sharp support Blu-ray and Toshiba and Microsoft back HD-DVD. Hollywood movie studios Disney, Paramount, Warner, Sony, Eagle rock, Fox and MGM and Lions gate support Blu-ray also. None of these large companies would take such a gamble if they didn't know that this is what the consumer wants.

PlayStation 3

Sony love to bring out their own media whether its Sony Duo Sticks or Sony Mini Discs. Their hunger to dominate the consumer market has always been there and this is nothing different. The Playstation 3 will play Blu-Ray discs, still having the ability to play older media like DVDs and CDs. The success of the predecessor's PS1 and PS2 will give much anticipation to the release of this new console and is what Sony are hoping will convert people to use Blu-Ray. A Sony spokesman has predicted that Blu-Ray will dominate the HD market within 12 months.

The encouraging feature with HD-DVD is the name, everyone's ears will ring with the name and automatically assume that this is a high definition movie. Asking someone in the street what 'Blu-ray' is will bring looks of confusion, along with the fact that both will produce similar quality pictures.

Region Coding

Region coding with Blu-Ray may put people off; the fact that you may not be able to watch a new release from the states or Japan on your European locked regional player will raise eyebrows.

REGION 1 South America, North America, East Asia (except China)
REGION 2 Europe and Africa
REGION 3 China, Russia other Countries

Multiregional configurations on DVD players has encouraged sales worldwide especially with worldwide films from Bollywood, Japan (manga) and South America.

So far the HD-DVD camp has not announced region coding just yet, and if they don't then this will be very advantageous for consumers.

Future Proof

Realistically you only need about 15-20 GB for a feature length film in High definition but who would have known that DVD's could not be able to hold enough for high definition. Theoretically they can with MPEG-4 Compression. In any case media like Blu-ray will hopefully be future proof in years to come.

Conclusion

The timescale and price are the two main issues here, how quick we will universally change to HD and whether this is affordable. From a consumer point of view the necessity for HD doesn't seem imperative, after all VHS was around for 20 odd years twice that of DVD (so far). You could argue that technology is changing exponentially and that changes occur quicker.

As for the battle between the two media there may be compromise ahead. A UK firm has announced a solution to the media war. London-based New Medium Enterprises (NME) has developed a low-cost, multilayer DVD disc that can store Blu-ray content on one layer and HD DVD content on another. This would leave the consumer with the choice of buying either type of player to play the one disc.

The key setback I feel with the looming HD change is the cheaper alternative to a Blu-Ray player or HD-DVD player, the DVD upscaler. Do people want to get rid of those hundreds of DVDs they bought to replace them with an expensive alternative, especially when they might not even notice the difference in picture quality?

However I do feel that HD is encouraged with consoles such as the Playstation 3. Blu-ray is its main format and may revolutionise the games industry.

How to make your relationship stronger with your love ones

2007-12-15T02:55:00.003-08:00

How to make your Relationship Stronger with your Love ones. I have four words for it Trust, Understanding, Honesty and Love. For me trusting your partner is a best way to do, because if you trust your partner he/she will definitely trust you also. but if you say that your partner can't be trusted it means to say that you don't love her/him. There are so many reason that your partner can't be trusted there's a positive way and a negative way. Understanding can also make your relationship strong, because part of understanding is listening. If your not going to listen to your partner your not going to understand what he/she is going to do or say.

Honesty is also one of the main part of the relationship. If your not going to be honest with your partner something bad will happen to both of you so it's better to tell her/him the truth. But they say keeping a secret can also make your relationship stay longer, but i don't know if it will also stay stronger. Last but not the least is Love, love is the very important part of a relationship. Love can make the mountains move according to the sound track of a movie. Love can make the stone soft. Because if you love your partner i know he/she will love you back.

Making your relationship stronger is only up to you or both of you. if both of you really don't match its better to tell your partner sooner. Because if you make it longer their's a possible way the feeling of your partner will worsen or your partner will hurt his/her self. Maybe worse he/she will commit suicide. Most especially just always pray for both of you.

The Rules of Attraction

2007-12-15T02:55:00.001-08:00

According to my research, I've found that Biologists tell us we're hard-wired to choose partners whose bodies reveal them to be healthy and fertile. Men will go fro petite, curvy women - ideally with a high hip-to-waist ratio (36-inch hips and a 23 inch waist is optimum). Women prefer tall men with strong jawlines and who look affluent.

But psychologist Glenn Wilson of London's Institute of Psychiatry believes such attraction will not last. To help couples find out if they are well suited, he has developed the Compatibility Quotient (CQ) Test, which rates your and your partner's attitudes on 2 factors that cover everything from exotic food, religion and chivalry to sexual experience - all know tipping points in relationship but hard to assess when you first get to know each other.

Relief for Restless Legs

2007-12-15T02:54:00.003-08:00

Do you often sit down? only to have an urge o get up again and move your legs? if so, you could be suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome.

The exact cause is still unknown, though health issues such as diabetes, iron deficiency and pregnancy, which can affect the peripheral nerves in your feet, may contribute. Some 60% of sufferers who control these other issues find their symptoms lessen, says Kailash Bhatia, professor of neurology at the University of London.

If you only experience it when travelling, Bhatia advises keeping a small face cloth with you and, when needed, dampening it and putting it on your legs. "Or a foot massage can relieve it," he says

For many sufferers, there is effective medication. It works well, but it can cause drowsiness. Bhatia advises it's most suitable for people who are kept awake at night by involuntary leg jerks.

It is true that massaging your foot it is very relaxing to do. It can relief your legs especially when you can feel the pain.

One Pill Makes You Larger

2007-12-15T02:54:00.001-08:00

I ran across an interesting site today in my wanderings through the back alleys of the internet. The "The Erowid Experience Vaults” are “an attempt to catalog the wide variety of experiences people have with psychoactive plants and chemicals as well as experiences with endogenous (non-drug) mystical experiences, drug testing, police interactions, deep experiences of connection to music, etc.” http://www.erowid.org/experiences/.

Most of you know that the Patriot hung up his crack pipe years ago once things started to get ugly back in the boogie down Bronx. Nevertheless, being an unrepentant Deadhead, I still find stories of people doing weird and illegal things while under the influence of psychedelics to be vastly entertaining. I don’t know if this is because I can personally relate to some of the stranger aspects of the psychedelic experience, or if getting away with stuff while tripping my brains off has left some kind of indelible mark on my psyche. Either way, the following excerpt is representative of the type of tale categorized at erowid. The title of the entire piece is called “It's Fake....Let's Eat It All' (WRONG!)” Been there, done that.

“At one point, probably six hours into the trip, I decided that I just needed to leave for a while. Just go away, into the woods, AWAY from this seething mass of lunacy swirling around me. I walked into the edge of the forest, into a little sunlit glade filled with white flowers here and there. Ohh the relief I felt! here was a perfect spot to lie down and grab ahold of the fraying edges of my sanity and...wait...that's not a flower!! I had stumbled into a shithole. The white flowers were wads of toilet paper that had recently wiped some dirty hippie's ass. THERE WAS NO ESCAPE. The crushing blow struck me between the lobes and i was paralyzed, stark still for several minutes. Then I pulled myself together and plunged back into the howling, gibbering carnival of humanoid creatures which now spread out for miles and miles. I knew I had no choice but to surrender myself to it.”

There’s a lot like of stories like this one. Have fun, my freaky friends.

$12 Billion Per Month

2007-12-15T02:53:00.001-08:00

CNN is reporting today that according to a recent congressional committee report the total economic impact of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan is estimated to reach $1.6 trillion by 2009. The figure -- which includes the cost of borrowing to pay for the war, higher oil prices, and the cost of caring for wounded veterans -- is nearly double the $804 billion in direct war costs already requested. The committee calculated that the average cost of both wars for a family of four would be $20,900 from 2002 to 2008. The cost for a family of four would go up to $46,400 from 2002 to 2017.

The Democrats, who seemingly don’t care enough about the cost of the war to actually cut off financing, nevertheless made some small squealing noises when confronted with the reality that $12 billion per month is being paid to support our aimless wandering in the Iraqi desert. It is noteworthy that Dennis Kuchinich stands alone among the Democratic candidates running for president who is advocating an immediate withdrawal. While Kucinich has about as much of a chance at being elected President as I or Politicalspazz do, there is another Democrat with a better shot at the oval office who understands that cutting off Congressional financing for the war has to be the first step in any discussion of pulling out. John Edwards position is rather simple yet eminently reasonable. According to Edwards, “[w]e have to take the next step and cap funding to mandate a withdrawal. We don't need debate; we don't need non-binding resolutions; we need to end this war, and Congress has the power to do it.” The power, yes, the will, no.

Control, or Lack Thereof

2007-12-15T02:52:00.001-08:00

One interesting side-effect, if you will, about going through the grieving process and interacting with others who have been through something similar is how absolutely tragic most people’s lives are. I mean, there are thousands of people who have experienced such fucked up bad luck that its amazing that they haven’t jumped off a bridge. I mean, if anyone is a candidate for that it’s me, but I don’t hold a candle to some of these people; entire families killed in car accidents except for one parent, that sort of thing. What is even more amazing is how everyone else thinks they’re somehow immune from it. We run around thinking how we control our lives and really any sense of control we have is completely illusory. We can perhaps control the little things, what sort of toothpaste we buy or what flavor of muffin we choose in the morning, but the big shit, the really big shit, is so beyond our ability to influence that to cede the point is almost incomprehensible. We expect to be able to mange our world; it’s our legacy as Americans for heaven's sake. It’s our birthright as New Yorkers. Despite my apparent laid back hippie persona (ahem), I actually have a bit of the control freak in me and the fact that this was something I couldn’t predict, manage or fix is making me a little crazy. The last time I felt this way was on 9/11 when I was running away from Tower 2. Remember my friends, life is not something we can put into little boxes and the Gods laugh at our plans.

Martial Law

2007-12-15T02:48:00.003-08:00

I was reading an excellent Nat Hentoff article on Civil Liberties in the Village Voice yesterday and I realized that no matter how vigilant one is about tracking the steady stream of bullshit emanating from the White House and Congress, it is very easy to miss things if you aren’t paying close attention. In a column titled, “As our civil liberties disappear, where are the Democrats?” (great title by the way) Hentoff reminded me exactly how freaky and scary these Republi-fascists have become in the last six years, and exactly how little the dems have done to stop them:

“Last year, buried in the 591-page Defense Appropriations Act—as civil- liberties watchdog John Whitehead and others have reported—the Republican-controlled 109th Congress, doubtless at the Bush/Cheney administration's behest, inserted a provision that (in Whitehead's words) allows the president "to declare martial law and use the military as a domestic police force in response to a natural disaster, disease outbreak, terrorist attack or any 'other condition' " that undermines public order. (Emphasis added.)

How much due process would these military-police roundups of suspected internal enemies give those prisoners? And how long will that military power be in effect domestically?
Has Geoffrey Stone forgotten James Madison's warning: "A standing military force, with an overgrown Executive, will not long be safe companions to liberty"?

Let’s see, which Democrats crossed the isle to vote for this piece of shit? Surprise! Almost all of them. This bill the House of Representatives by roll call vote. The totals were 407 Ayes, 19 Nays, 6 Present/Not Voting. The Senate vote was even more of a disgrace, 98 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Present/Not Voting. Your opposition party at work folks. I wonder if Halliburton is getting the contract to build these concentration camps?