So I am going to finally write a blog that doesn't mention snow. Of course, this could be because this is the first time we haven't had any. Don't worry we had 2.5 - 3 inches on Tuesday afternoon and evening. However, I was excited to see a little bit of sun this morning when I woke up (instead of the typical gray-ness). Maybe finally some of the roads will finally get cleared of the packet snow. The expressway was just a little wet when I was out this morning - which is wasn't when I went home yesterday.
This morning I was reminded of an interesting topic that I hadn't thought about in a couple years - Huffman coding. This method is used in compression for jpegs and mp3s. It is funny how we use these things all the time, but we don't really think about it. The method is very simply and very effective. Basically, you rank each item by the number of times it occurs. You give the fequently repeated items a short encoding. Things that occur less often get longer encodings. Therefore, reducing the over all space by approximately 25%. Simple. Straight-forward. Ducky.
Complete side note: I purchased a salad for lunch. It came with a packet of dressing (1.5 oz). How on earth do they pack 210 calories into that thing? The dressing is no where near 210 calories of yumminess. Therefore, I only used about 1/2 of the package. But still. Next time I am bringing my own light dressing from home.
Well, I better get back to work. I have to read a book on fuzzy logic - not my first book. I have been reading several on and off. However, I figured I would try to read this one (Fuzzy Logic: Intelligence, Control, and Information by Yen and Langari) all the way through.
I also need to create a help guide for my students for functions and sub procedures. They have an assignment coming up and I know this concept always causes confusion. It is the nice thing about teaching a class again. You have a better idea some of the issues before hand. Of course, each term they manage to still surprise me!
Thanks for stopping by and reading! Happy sunshine (and lack of snow)!
Showing posts with label snow. Show all posts
Showing posts with label snow. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Sunday, February 10, 2008
More Snow?!?
"Good God, Holmes, she was ripped apart by crocodiles!" - Dr. John Watson (Sherlock Holmes: Incident at Victoria Falls)
It is snowing and icy out on the far side of Michigan today. There are wind gusts blowing the snow all over everywhere. The worst is the -15 wind chills. Last night there were several inches of snow. The weather service keeps extending the winter weather advisory. First it was until 4 PM and then moved to 10 PM. The last update was until 1 AM. Hopefully, the winds will die down a little bit. Roads are not very good. If you don't have 4-wheel drive, then the roads are almost impossible. Trust me, I was out in it. All I have to say is ugh!
Recently, I have been watching a 1990's movie Sherlock Holmes: Incident at Victoria Falls. This movie stars Christopher Lee as a retired Sherlock Holmes and Patrick Macnee (yep, John Steed from the Avengers tv show) as Dr. Watson. The movie is very funny overall. It is a typical "who-done-it" with all the characters having secrets and mysterious actions. Although this is not based on original Sherlock Holmes stories, it is a fairly good movie overall. Christopher Lee makes a very good Sherlock Holmes. (Side trivia note: Christoper Lee was in another older Sherlock Holmes movie, but didn't play Sherlock Holmes).
Well, I better get back to work! Lots to do on my research. Well, I have lots of thinking to do anyway ;-) Try to keep warm and un-snowy!
It is snowing and icy out on the far side of Michigan today. There are wind gusts blowing the snow all over everywhere. The worst is the -15 wind chills. Last night there were several inches of snow. The weather service keeps extending the winter weather advisory. First it was until 4 PM and then moved to 10 PM. The last update was until 1 AM. Hopefully, the winds will die down a little bit. Roads are not very good. If you don't have 4-wheel drive, then the roads are almost impossible. Trust me, I was out in it. All I have to say is ugh!
Recently, I have been watching a 1990's movie Sherlock Holmes: Incident at Victoria Falls. This movie stars Christopher Lee as a retired Sherlock Holmes and Patrick Macnee (yep, John Steed from the Avengers tv show) as Dr. Watson. The movie is very funny overall. It is a typical "who-done-it" with all the characters having secrets and mysterious actions. Although this is not based on original Sherlock Holmes stories, it is a fairly good movie overall. Christopher Lee makes a very good Sherlock Holmes. (Side trivia note: Christoper Lee was in another older Sherlock Holmes movie, but didn't play Sherlock Holmes).
Well, I better get back to work! Lots to do on my research. Well, I have lots of thinking to do anyway ;-) Try to keep warm and un-snowy!
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Weekend Fun-ness
"Think of the safety. Think of the sense of well-being. And, at last, your family can be protected from the heartbreak of gorilla invasion." - Dr. Bunsen Honeydrew (Muppet Show)
Is fun-ness even a word? Probably not, but whatever. That has never stopped me before...
The other day I saw this comic on PhD comics. Funny I happen to be grading that day too. I can so relate to that comic :-) Although, it didn't take me nearly that long. But I have to be carefully that I don't do that to the later papers. It is more frustrating to grade the end one, especially if people keep making the same errors over and over and over again. Oh the joys of grading. (Actually, I like grading most of the time. Seriously, I must have issues or something).
Weather is going to get crazy again and cold. Tomorrow we are going to have single digits and very cold wind chills. Yikes. Oh and there is going to be more snow (2-4 inches). Just what we need, even more snow.
Well, I should be getting back to work. Lots of research to do. I have a paper to read. Then I have to figure out a way to apply weighted mean to my problem while maintaining certain properties. However, I will spare you the details - else your eyes may glaze over ;-) I know I find it interesting, but I am guessing that everyone else only finds it minorally interesting.
Thanks for stopping by and reading! Keep warm :-)
Is fun-ness even a word? Probably not, but whatever. That has never stopped me before...
The other day I saw this comic on PhD comics. Funny I happen to be grading that day too. I can so relate to that comic :-) Although, it didn't take me nearly that long. But I have to be carefully that I don't do that to the later papers. It is more frustrating to grade the end one, especially if people keep making the same errors over and over and over again. Oh the joys of grading. (Actually, I like grading most of the time. Seriously, I must have issues or something).
Weather is going to get crazy again and cold. Tomorrow we are going to have single digits and very cold wind chills. Yikes. Oh and there is going to be more snow (2-4 inches). Just what we need, even more snow.
Well, I should be getting back to work. Lots of research to do. I have a paper to read. Then I have to figure out a way to apply weighted mean to my problem while maintaining certain properties. However, I will spare you the details - else your eyes may glaze over ;-) I know I find it interesting, but I am guessing that everyone else only finds it minorally interesting.
Thanks for stopping by and reading! Keep warm :-)
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Snow, Fraggles, etc
"I was in bed, my pajamas were on, my eyes were closed; what's your guess?" - Red (Fraggle Rock: The Secret Society of Poobahs)
The snow has returned to this side of Michigan. This morning we had a rain/freezing rain mix and now it has changed over to snow. I think we have already gotten an inch or two. Wow! It is icy from the morning rain. It is coming down pretty fast right now. The temperatures are hoovering around freezing - so it is definately not melting! (The local channels around here have cut into regular programming and are doing special weather reports).
I am currently watching season 3 of Fraggle Rock (available via HiT Entertainment). This is the season with the excellent Christmas episode (The Bells of Fraggle Rock ). This episode features the songs "There's a Promise" and "The Festival of the Bells". I remember watching the episode as a kid. Gobo goes looking for the Great Bell of Fraggle Rock and realizes the true meaning of the holidays. I love the part where Sprocket is trying to break the pinata.
Side note: There is a new Disney DxD site for the Muppets. Ducky.
Well, I better go fix some dinner. Something nice and warm I am thinking. Thanks for stopping by and reading! Hope you are having better weather!
The snow has returned to this side of Michigan. This morning we had a rain/freezing rain mix and now it has changed over to snow. I think we have already gotten an inch or two. Wow! It is icy from the morning rain. It is coming down pretty fast right now. The temperatures are hoovering around freezing - so it is definately not melting! (The local channels around here have cut into regular programming and are doing special weather reports).
I am currently watching season 3 of Fraggle Rock (available via HiT Entertainment). This is the season with the excellent Christmas episode (The Bells of Fraggle Rock ). This episode features the songs "There's a Promise" and "The Festival of the Bells". I remember watching the episode as a kid. Gobo goes looking for the Great Bell of Fraggle Rock and realizes the true meaning of the holidays. I love the part where Sprocket is trying to break the pinata.
Side note: There is a new Disney DxD site for the Muppets. Ducky.
Well, I better go fix some dinner. Something nice and warm I am thinking. Thanks for stopping by and reading! Hope you are having better weather!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Old Movies, Snow, ect
"How about making me vice president in charge of cheering you up?" - Peter Joshua(Charade)
It has snowed even more here in Michigan. Around 3 inches! Many schools are closed today state wide. I don't actually have any classes today (so of course today is cancelled). We are scheduled to possibly have more snow! Then on Monday we are suppose to warm back up - briefly.
I am on another "old movie kick". Recently, I have watched Charade and Everybody Sing. Charade stars Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant. Funny movie and Audrey Hepburn wears some of the most interesting outfits. The surprising twist at the end was quiet good. Also the scene where Cary Grant takes a shower in his suit is really worth seeing. Everybody Sing stars Judy Garland and Fanny Brice. The singing is marvy. OK, so it is your typical "B" movie of the time. But worth a watch anyway.
Tonight another new episode of Stargate Atlantis is on! Ducky. Replicator come to earth is the short version of the basic concept of tonights episode. I am looking forward to see it. A new episode of Psych is also on tonight. I am so glad that each show is run twice in the evening.
Of course, there is some irony that of the few tv shows I do watch they tend to be on the same evening (although this is a first for being on at the same time). I only watch four shows right now (Stargate Atlantis, Psych, Bones, and Boston Legal). And the first two are the only ones running new episodes right now. I will get to add another show to the list next year - since the Sci-Fi Channel has picked up Sanctuary! Very interesting and very different show.
Well, I better get back to work. Lots to do before Monday. Thanks for stopping by and reading.
It has snowed even more here in Michigan. Around 3 inches! Many schools are closed today state wide. I don't actually have any classes today (so of course today is cancelled). We are scheduled to possibly have more snow! Then on Monday we are suppose to warm back up - briefly.
I am on another "old movie kick". Recently, I have watched Charade and Everybody Sing. Charade stars Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant. Funny movie and Audrey Hepburn wears some of the most interesting outfits. The surprising twist at the end was quiet good. Also the scene where Cary Grant takes a shower in his suit is really worth seeing. Everybody Sing stars Judy Garland and Fanny Brice. The singing is marvy. OK, so it is your typical "B" movie of the time. But worth a watch anyway.
Tonight another new episode of Stargate Atlantis is on! Ducky. Replicator come to earth is the short version of the basic concept of tonights episode. I am looking forward to see it. A new episode of Psych is also on tonight. I am so glad that each show is run twice in the evening.
Of course, there is some irony that of the few tv shows I do watch they tend to be on the same evening (although this is a first for being on at the same time). I only watch four shows right now (Stargate Atlantis, Psych, Bones, and Boston Legal). And the first two are the only ones running new episodes right now. I will get to add another show to the list next year - since the Sci-Fi Channel has picked up Sanctuary! Very interesting and very different show.
Well, I better get back to work. Lots to do before Monday. Thanks for stopping by and reading.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Blizzard-Like Snow
Last night Michigan was hit with some pretty big storms. First, we had thunderstorms followed by a couple of inches of snow. The worst is the 50 mph gusts! My car was under my covered parking space and still got an inch of snow on it. 100's of schools and businesses are closed on this side of the state. The bad weather warnings didn't end until noon. Yet, I am writing this from my office...
Yes, I happen to be at one of the places that didn't close. Yes, I did have class. I did notice that attendance does appear to be small and there are not a lot of students around. Oh and it is still snowing and windy (we have a blowing snow advistory). Oh and they think there is more snow coming. Lovely.
Anyway, it is suppose to get better in the afternoon (at least for a little bit). So I figured I would go ahead and have my office hours anyway. I was already here and everything. However, becuase of the weather I am highly doubting that anyone is going to come.
Other than the weather, everything is going well. I am keeping myself busy with research. As a related side note, there is a paper using fuzzy logic to explain the golden ratio. I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but it looks cool. I was actually looking for something else when I stumpled over this paper.
Well, I better get back to fuzzifying data. Yep, fuzzification and de-fuzzification. Eyes glazed over yet? ;-)
Yes, I happen to be at one of the places that didn't close. Yes, I did have class. I did notice that attendance does appear to be small and there are not a lot of students around. Oh and it is still snowing and windy (we have a blowing snow advistory). Oh and they think there is more snow coming. Lovely.
Anyway, it is suppose to get better in the afternoon (at least for a little bit). So I figured I would go ahead and have my office hours anyway. I was already here and everything. However, becuase of the weather I am highly doubting that anyone is going to come.
Other than the weather, everything is going well. I am keeping myself busy with research. As a related side note, there is a paper using fuzzy logic to explain the golden ratio. I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but it looks cool. I was actually looking for something else when I stumpled over this paper.
Well, I better get back to fuzzifying data. Yep, fuzzification and de-fuzzification. Eyes glazed over yet? ;-)
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Nothing Important...
"Details of your incompetence do not interest me." - Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada)
School has an interesting way of coming in chunks these days. I have spent the last week quiet swamped. Oh and it has been snowing like crazy. I think tomorrow is the first day since last week that the forcast only shows "snow flurries" and a temperature above 25. On Friday when I left for school it was 0 degrees with a wind chill of -10. Yuck. Did I mention recently how much I hate snow?
Back to the school thing. I have two presentations I am trying to prepare and homework. I heard rumors that I might be getting some grading in the near future. I have been studying up on Fibonacci heaps (one of the presentations). I also have been reading about red-black trees and b-trees. Fun stuff - no?
Once I finish up with all of that I have to create a presentation regarding my research. I am starting practising presenting my research material so that one day (in many, many, many, many, many months for now) I might get around to proposing. Of course, I have tons of stuff to do before I am any where near ready with proposing. But, I am slowly heading in the direction.
Complete side note: I don't know how I lived before I got my iPod Touch and super-ducky in-ear headphones. They are perfect for using at my office. Blocks some of the just noise-noise. There is this weird vent-fan thing that makes a high-pitch noise when it runs, but the headphones help block it out! I can't decide if I want to get the new software update. Choices, choices, choices...
School has an interesting way of coming in chunks these days. I have spent the last week quiet swamped. Oh and it has been snowing like crazy. I think tomorrow is the first day since last week that the forcast only shows "snow flurries" and a temperature above 25. On Friday when I left for school it was 0 degrees with a wind chill of -10. Yuck. Did I mention recently how much I hate snow?
Back to the school thing. I have two presentations I am trying to prepare and homework. I heard rumors that I might be getting some grading in the near future. I have been studying up on Fibonacci heaps (one of the presentations). I also have been reading about red-black trees and b-trees. Fun stuff - no?
Once I finish up with all of that I have to create a presentation regarding my research. I am starting practising presenting my research material so that one day (in many, many, many, many, many months for now) I might get around to proposing. Of course, I have tons of stuff to do before I am any where near ready with proposing. But, I am slowly heading in the direction.
Complete side note: I don't know how I lived before I got my iPod Touch and super-ducky in-ear headphones. They are perfect for using at my office. Blocks some of the just noise-noise. There is this weird vent-fan thing that makes a high-pitch noise when it runs, but the headphones help block it out! I can't decide if I want to get the new software update. Choices, choices, choices...
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Snow, Snow, Snow
Since Sunday evening it has been snowing here on this side of Michigan. There was an inch or so Sunday night, a couple of inches during the day on Monday, and possible 1 to 3 inches before morning. Alright, I have to admit that the snow is pretty (as long as I am not having to drive in it). The roads where simply wet when I was out - but that was mid-day. I hate to know what they are like now...
School is already in full swing. I am currently trying on creating a GUI in MATLAB - emphasis on the trying part. I have the design done, but adding the code has been ummm... interesting - that's a good word for it. I have the basic code pieces written, but I am attempting to make the program way more easy to interact with and hopefully make testing of what I really want to do easier. Of course, I need to complete it by Wednesday morning. So no pressure or anything!
Sadly, I don't have anything profound to discuss, point out, or anything. Not that I normally do, but I can't even fake it. Well, I better get back to work. Unfortunately, I don't have any monkeys to do my coding for me so I have to write the program myself ;-) Thanks for stopping by and reading. (Aren't you shocked I made yet another update?)
School is already in full swing. I am currently trying on creating a GUI in MATLAB - emphasis on the trying part. I have the design done, but adding the code has been ummm... interesting - that's a good word for it. I have the basic code pieces written, but I am attempting to make the program way more easy to interact with and hopefully make testing of what I really want to do easier. Of course, I need to complete it by Wednesday morning. So no pressure or anything!
Sadly, I don't have anything profound to discuss, point out, or anything. Not that I normally do, but I can't even fake it. Well, I better get back to work. Unfortunately, I don't have any monkeys to do my coding for me so I have to write the program myself ;-) Thanks for stopping by and reading. (Aren't you shocked I made yet another update?)
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Current Rambles
"If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there." - Lewis Carroll
Current Music Obsession: "Trouble Sleeping" by Corinne Bailey Rae
The icey roads are starting to melt! It only snowed for part of the day and it wasn't nearly as cold as it has been. So life is continuing on. I only slightly notice the passage of time. But that's the way it is during the middle of a semester. Busy, busy, busy.
Current readings:
"Bleeding Maize and Blue" by Susan Holtzer. (More information, I suggest looking here). This is actually the third book in the mystery series. If you are familar with Ann Arbor (or the univerisity there), you will find the references in the book even more interesting. (For other books set in Ann Arbor check out this list). Great mystery series with the main character being a female computer programmer! Hail to the Victors.
New Bytes:
"Forensic photography brings color back to ancient textiles"
The Bubbles! Just sounds so cool: "Flow of tiny bubbles mimics computer circuitry"
"Vista Makes PC Sales Pop"
I'm thinking of a fork: "Scientists becoming mind-readers"
Now if you will excuse me I have to get back to trying to show that the class of languages in P is closed under inverse homomorphism. (I know you are jealous because that just sounds like so much fun). Thanks for reading. Stay warm!
By the way, I feel like this comic a lot.
Current Music Obsession: "Trouble Sleeping" by Corinne Bailey Rae
The icey roads are starting to melt! It only snowed for part of the day and it wasn't nearly as cold as it has been. So life is continuing on. I only slightly notice the passage of time. But that's the way it is during the middle of a semester. Busy, busy, busy.
Current readings:
"Bleeding Maize and Blue" by Susan Holtzer. (More information, I suggest looking here). This is actually the third book in the mystery series. If you are familar with Ann Arbor (or the univerisity there), you will find the references in the book even more interesting. (For other books set in Ann Arbor check out this list). Great mystery series with the main character being a female computer programmer! Hail to the Victors.
New Bytes:
"Forensic photography brings color back to ancient textiles"
The Bubbles! Just sounds so cool: "Flow of tiny bubbles mimics computer circuitry"
"Vista Makes PC Sales Pop"
I'm thinking of a fork: "Scientists becoming mind-readers"
Now if you will excuse me I have to get back to trying to show that the class of languages in P is closed under inverse homomorphism. (I know you are jealous because that just sounds like so much fun). Thanks for reading. Stay warm!
By the way, I feel like this comic a lot.
Monday, February 5, 2007
News At Sloth Pace
"I don't know about you guys but we are the weirdest herd I've ever seen." - Sid (Ice Age)
Wow. February. Where did it come from? (I think it must of have been hiding). January went by surprising quickly. I think I must be getting old - because time has started to move faster. Anyway, still on the 80's music kick. Not that had anything to do with anything.
Most of the west side of Michigan is shut down due to the cold temperatures (and the blizzard on Saturday - that I thankfully missed by being on the opposite of the state). It was -7F (wind chill -14) this morning when I got up to check if school was closed and lightly snowing. The major problem is the wind and drifting snow. Anyway, I happily went back to bed and sleep for hours when I saw my school on the list :)
Old news I meant to post days ago:
"15,000-year-old ground sloth footprints found in Argentina"
If real life was a TV show, then I would say that it was aliens, but I am guessing there is a better, more scientific explaination: "Hubble humbled by power failure"
Unless you have been living under a rock Microsoft has released Vista ("Review: Microsoft Vista, Ultimate Edition"). It's release seems to be compatable to the Vulcon/Human relationship on Star Trek Enterprise. It looks interesting. But I am sticking with my rule of no changing of OSs in the middle of the term. Also, by the time I ever get around to updating the little "issues" will be worked out. Yes, there is methods to my madness! ;-) However, I do have to ask one question - why? "Apple warns iTunes users to delay Vista upgrade". I understand that they are technically competing, but still...
Newer news:
"Songs from iPod Commercials" (and you can wach the new adds here).
Two words: Free & Pirates: "Disney in uncharted waters with "Pirates" game"
Completely unrelated to anything:
I finally watched a couple (and by a couple I mean about 2) episodes of Boston Legal. I know I am behind the times. I just never got around to watching it. I have to say I find the show fairly funny in a completely off-the-wall kind of way.
Well, I have homework to get started on. Thanks for reading. Stay warm!
Wow. February. Where did it come from? (I think it must of have been hiding). January went by surprising quickly. I think I must be getting old - because time has started to move faster. Anyway, still on the 80's music kick. Not that had anything to do with anything.
Most of the west side of Michigan is shut down due to the cold temperatures (and the blizzard on Saturday - that I thankfully missed by being on the opposite of the state). It was -7F (wind chill -14) this morning when I got up to check if school was closed and lightly snowing. The major problem is the wind and drifting snow. Anyway, I happily went back to bed and sleep for hours when I saw my school on the list :)
Old news I meant to post days ago:
"15,000-year-old ground sloth footprints found in Argentina"
If real life was a TV show, then I would say that it was aliens, but I am guessing there is a better, more scientific explaination: "Hubble humbled by power failure"
Unless you have been living under a rock Microsoft has released Vista ("Review: Microsoft Vista, Ultimate Edition"). It's release seems to be compatable to the Vulcon/Human relationship on Star Trek Enterprise. It looks interesting. But I am sticking with my rule of no changing of OSs in the middle of the term. Also, by the time I ever get around to updating the little "issues" will be worked out. Yes, there is methods to my madness! ;-) However, I do have to ask one question - why? "Apple warns iTunes users to delay Vista upgrade". I understand that they are technically competing, but still...
Newer news:
"Songs from iPod Commercials" (and you can wach the new adds here).
Two words: Free & Pirates: "Disney in uncharted waters with "Pirates" game"
Completely unrelated to anything:
I finally watched a couple (and by a couple I mean about 2) episodes of Boston Legal. I know I am behind the times. I just never got around to watching it. I have to say I find the show fairly funny in a completely off-the-wall kind of way.
Well, I have homework to get started on. Thanks for reading. Stay warm!
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
80's Music Kick
Just a quick post (I am still around, just busy). I noticed that I am on this 80's music kick at the moment. So I figured I would share my last iTunes purchases with you. (Also, because I really don't have anything else to talk about). My last two song purchase off where "These Dreams" by Heart and "We Belong" by Pat Benatar. See, as I said complete 80s music kick going on.
The song I purchased before that was "Faith Alive" by The Wish. I first heard it in the commerical for Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Great song. (You can now get it on iTunes).
Now if you will excuse me I have got to get to bed. I am giving a presentation tomorrow on Cook's theorem wish should be interesting. It is a cool theorem considering that it is the core to the whole NP-Complete concept. Well, that's what I think anyway :)
Oh and yes it is snowing bucket fulls on the west side of Michigan since like Sunday. There are many inches (and by that I mean there has to be more than 5) of snow on the ground. Therefore, it has become my goal to move to a (even slightly) warmer climate after I graduate. Seriously, Michigan is the only state that can boost have four different climates in one state. At least I don't live in the northern part of Michigan!
Thanks for stopping by and reading. Stay warm!
The song I purchased before that was "Faith Alive" by The Wish. I first heard it in the commerical for Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Great song. (You can now get it on iTunes).
Now if you will excuse me I have got to get to bed. I am giving a presentation tomorrow on Cook's theorem wish should be interesting. It is a cool theorem considering that it is the core to the whole NP-Complete concept. Well, that's what I think anyway :)
Oh and yes it is snowing bucket fulls on the west side of Michigan since like Sunday. There are many inches (and by that I mean there has to be more than 5) of snow on the ground. Therefore, it has become my goal to move to a (even slightly) warmer climate after I graduate. Seriously, Michigan is the only state that can boost have four different climates in one state. At least I don't live in the northern part of Michigan!
Thanks for stopping by and reading. Stay warm!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Finger's Crossed
"There never was much hope. Just a fool's hope." - Gandalf(The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King)
Current food obsession: Milk Chocolate with Smooth Caramel Godiva Bar
New Bits and Bytes:
Stephany's Song Obsession Lists:
Starting the Day List:
Thanks for stopping by! Stay warm.
Current food obsession: Milk Chocolate with Smooth Caramel Godiva Bar
New Bits and Bytes:
- "House Approves Cut In Student-Loan Rates"
- "Microsoft to Make Vista Easier to Buy Online"
- "Bats in flight reveal unexpected aerodynamic"
Stephany's Song Obsession Lists:
Starting the Day List:
- "Beautiful Day" by U2
- "Stigmatized" by The Calling
- "Thinking Over" by Dana Glover
- "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton
- "All At Once" by The Fray
- "Let Love In" by Goo Goo Dolls
- "City of Blinding Light" by U2
- "Suddenly I See" by KT Tunstall
- "Dream" by The Cranberries
- "I'm Still Here" by John Rzeznik
- "I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker (With Flowers In My Hair)'" by Sandi Thom
- "Sleep" by Azure Ray
- "Rain" by Patty Griffin
- "Amid the Falling Snow" by Enya
- "Some of Us" by Starsailor
- "Bells" by Beth Waters
- "Name" by Goo Goo Dolls
- "The World I Know" by Collective Soul
- "Linger" by The Cranberries
- "Jerk It Out" by Caesars
- "Woman Like Me" by Beyoncé
- "Crazy"by Alanis Morissette
- "A Rose is Still A Rose" by Aretha Franklin
- "Believe" by Cher
- "Breathless" by The Corrs
- "Don't Turn Off The Lights" by Enrique Iglesias
- "I Decide" by Lindsay Lohan
- "Vogue" by Madonna
- "Trouble" by Pink
Thanks for stopping by! Stay warm.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Snow Bunnies Strike Again
"When you need me, but do not want me, then I will stay. When you want me, but do not need me, then I have to go. " - Nanny McPhee (Nanny McPhee)
Current music obsession: Soundtrack from the movie Finding Neverland
It is of course snowing. Not that it is a huge surprise or anything that it is snowing in Michigan. The ice rain Sunday night was a bit of a surprise. However, we haven't gotten that much snow. But it is a bit on the chilly side :-P
However, lets move on to discuss much more pleasent things. My obsession with two board games: Authentic DaVinci Dilemma Board Game and The Da Vinci Code Movie Board Game. I came across these wonderful gems at a bookstore (which I was there purchasing a textbook for one of my classes - honest). I had an change to play both of these games over the weekend. They are great!
Authentic DaVinci Dilemma Board Game: In this game you answer trivia questions and riddles to collect pieces of art work. The trivia questions are divided into 4 categories and cover a wide range of knowledge. Knowledge of Da Vinci a plus. Great low key fun for all.
The Da Vinci Code Movie Board Game: This game reminds me of a cross between clue and logic puzzles. So I was instantly attracted! It takes a little bit to get use to the game play. If you have read the books or are familiar with historical events surrounding the events of the book/Movie you will be at a slight advantage. Great fun - and lots of surprises!
In the news:
Honey, someone shrunk the wires: "Can HP fool Moore's Law?"
This just looks so cool: iPhone
Well, I better run along :-) Thanks for stopping by and reading. Keep warm!
Current music obsession: Soundtrack from the movie Finding Neverland
It is of course snowing. Not that it is a huge surprise or anything that it is snowing in Michigan. The ice rain Sunday night was a bit of a surprise. However, we haven't gotten that much snow. But it is a bit on the chilly side :-P
However, lets move on to discuss much more pleasent things. My obsession with two board games: Authentic DaVinci Dilemma Board Game and The Da Vinci Code Movie Board Game. I came across these wonderful gems at a bookstore (which I was there purchasing a textbook for one of my classes - honest). I had an change to play both of these games over the weekend. They are great!
Authentic DaVinci Dilemma Board Game: In this game you answer trivia questions and riddles to collect pieces of art work. The trivia questions are divided into 4 categories and cover a wide range of knowledge. Knowledge of Da Vinci a plus. Great low key fun for all.
The Da Vinci Code Movie Board Game: This game reminds me of a cross between clue and logic puzzles. So I was instantly attracted! It takes a little bit to get use to the game play. If you have read the books or are familiar with historical events surrounding the events of the book/Movie you will be at a slight advantage. Great fun - and lots of surprises!
In the news:
Honey, someone shrunk the wires: "Can HP fool Moore's Law?"
This just looks so cool: iPhone
Well, I better run along :-) Thanks for stopping by and reading. Keep warm!
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Today's Obsession: Cisco Commercial
I keep seeing the Cisco commerical and I can't place the song. There is the full version on the Human Network site. I tried to do some internet research about the song. However, everyone else seems to be drawing as many blanks as I am.
One site suggested it sounded a little like "Bittersweet Symphony" by The Verve (and you can watch the very good music video). But I don't think that is the song. But, "Bittersweet Symphony" is excellent in it's own right. You will probably recognize it after hearing the first few seconds - or at least I did.
I am currently taking my 1/2 hour break. I had a final exam earlier this evening. Later this evening I am going back to working on my project that isn't quiet done yet. I have to write a manual for the software for one of the projects. The fun never stops...
We had a day of over freezing temperatures. It melted the snow off the roads. However, that was short lived. The snow is back and falling down all over the roads. (OK, so now I look at what I just typed and all I can think of is "what other way would snow be falling than down?"). Moving on...
Tomorrow is going to be cold with a really low wind chill. Oh and did I mention the 100% chance of snow? Yuck.
Thanks for stopping by and reading. Hoping your weather isn't as bad or cold as mine! Stay warm :-)
One site suggested it sounded a little like "Bittersweet Symphony" by The Verve (and you can watch the very good music video). But I don't think that is the song. But, "Bittersweet Symphony" is excellent in it's own right. You will probably recognize it after hearing the first few seconds - or at least I did.
I am currently taking my 1/2 hour break. I had a final exam earlier this evening. Later this evening I am going back to working on my project that isn't quiet done yet. I have to write a manual for the software for one of the projects. The fun never stops...
We had a day of over freezing temperatures. It melted the snow off the roads. However, that was short lived. The snow is back and falling down all over the roads. (OK, so now I look at what I just typed and all I can think of is "what other way would snow be falling than down?"). Moving on...
Tomorrow is going to be cold with a really low wind chill. Oh and did I mention the 100% chance of snow? Yuck.
Thanks for stopping by and reading. Hoping your weather isn't as bad or cold as mine! Stay warm :-)
Monday, December 4, 2006
Snow = Energizer Bunny
"Boy, is this piano out of tune... I love out of tune pianos." - Rowlf (A Muppet Family Christmas)
First, I wanted to point out the following interesting news articles (before I digress into rambles mostly about the snow):
Space is really hitting the news:
"NASA Says It Will Set Up Polar Moon Camp"
"Shuttle Discovery Gears Up for Launch"
Interesting little site which in my past experiences could have been very useful: "Grad Student Site Tracks Shared Expenses"
The snow is still coming down. When I came back from class earlier (and mind you this was during rush hour) the road were lightly covered with snow. I saw two salt trucks in my short trip home. Now I have nothing against snow. I like snow. It covers up all the gray-ness of winter. Of course, it also makes it seem very Christmas-y. I actually like watching the snow come down. However, it's the driving in it I am not a huge fan of. I will enjoy when the snow actually stops.
The other interesting part about the recent weather is the cold temperatures. It never got about freezing. The heat has been running most of the day trying to keep it comfortable inside. I am really glad I like sweaters! The cold temperatures are also a major cause in the road problems. Making the slush slick.
Other then the weather, I don't have much to talk about. Mostly, I have been studying for the exam I have on Wednesday. Oh and a little work on the project. However, I have been focusing on studying. We get a 1 page sheet of notes for the exam which is nice, but it is hard to decided what to put on the sheet. There is so much information and I can't fit it all on the sheet :)
Well, thanks for stopping by and reading. Stay warm :)
First, I wanted to point out the following interesting news articles (before I digress into rambles mostly about the snow):
Space is really hitting the news:
"NASA Says It Will Set Up Polar Moon Camp"
"Shuttle Discovery Gears Up for Launch"
Interesting little site which in my past experiences could have been very useful: "Grad Student Site Tracks Shared Expenses"
The snow is still coming down. When I came back from class earlier (and mind you this was during rush hour) the road were lightly covered with snow. I saw two salt trucks in my short trip home. Now I have nothing against snow. I like snow. It covers up all the gray-ness of winter. Of course, it also makes it seem very Christmas-y. I actually like watching the snow come down. However, it's the driving in it I am not a huge fan of. I will enjoy when the snow actually stops.
The other interesting part about the recent weather is the cold temperatures. It never got about freezing. The heat has been running most of the day trying to keep it comfortable inside. I am really glad I like sweaters! The cold temperatures are also a major cause in the road problems. Making the slush slick.
Other then the weather, I don't have much to talk about. Mostly, I have been studying for the exam I have on Wednesday. Oh and a little work on the project. However, I have been focusing on studying. We get a 1 page sheet of notes for the exam which is nice, but it is hard to decided what to put on the sheet. There is so much information and I can't fit it all on the sheet :)
Well, thanks for stopping by and reading. Stay warm :)
Friday, December 1, 2006
Snowed In
"People do not like to be called fruit!" - Shirley Feeney (Laverne & Shirley)
An absolutely amazing thing the weather is. Early this week it was 60. Now there is ice and snow everywhere. Serious snow and ice ("First big winter storm hits Midwest"). The university closed for the day! I wasn't planning on going anywhere today or anything - but when all the schools close that really tells you something. It is still lightly snowing.
So I am bundled up in a blanket working on my projects. I also have an exam next week which I will need to start studying for later today. I just keep repeating to myself - "two more weeks, two more weeks"...
Anthropology meets technology: "Experts Reconstruct Leonardo Fingerprint"
Robots gets lesson in archaeology: "Robot to penetrate deep inside Cheops pyramid"
Insteresting article regarding Microsoft: "Vista: Microsoft's Last 'Big Bang' Operating System?"
Well, I better get back to work. Stay warm and dry :-) Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by!
An absolutely amazing thing the weather is. Early this week it was 60. Now there is ice and snow everywhere. Serious snow and ice ("First big winter storm hits Midwest"). The university closed for the day! I wasn't planning on going anywhere today or anything - but when all the schools close that really tells you something. It is still lightly snowing.
So I am bundled up in a blanket working on my projects. I also have an exam next week which I will need to start studying for later today. I just keep repeating to myself - "two more weeks, two more weeks"...
Anthropology meets technology: "Experts Reconstruct Leonardo Fingerprint"
Robots gets lesson in archaeology: "Robot to penetrate deep inside Cheops pyramid"
Insteresting article regarding Microsoft: "Vista: Microsoft's Last 'Big Bang' Operating System?"
Well, I better get back to work. Stay warm and dry :-) Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by!
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Snow Comes A'nocking
Song Obsession of the day: "How to Save a Life" by The Fray
Quote for today: "One's destination is never a place but rather a new way of looking at things." - Henry Miller
It is Snowing and it's not even Halloween yet!?! When I was coming back from class a few minutes ago it looked like a little mini-blizard. OK, I think they over shot that "snow shower" prediction. However, it is 32 degrees out so there is snow on the glass. The roads mostly are wet (or atleast that was way earlier this morning when I left). Good thing I could find my warm winter coat in the closet. Seriously, it was like 69 on Monday.
News Linkies:
No, I am not from Michigan, I just temporarily live here: "Mich. Board OKs Curriculum on Evolution"
We learn something new everyday: "Rapid Sea Level Rise in the Arctic Ocean May Alter Views of Human Migration"
Everything is being Google-fied. Nothing is safe, not even writing or spread sheets: "Google launches online writing and spread sheet service" (Of course, I really believe this is a good thing - honest).
The seven secrets of successful programmers (which almost no programmer ever does until they work on a huge project and someone else is going to have to read their code).
Keep you data save, have Darth Vador guard it: "Limited Edition Star Wars USB Flashdrives"
Oh so funny (and somewhat true) comic.
There is no shortage of people bring out video/music players: "Sony says developing video Walkman"
Thanks for stopping by and reading! Stay warm (and dry)!
Quote for today: "One's destination is never a place but rather a new way of looking at things." - Henry Miller
It is Snowing and it's not even Halloween yet!?! When I was coming back from class a few minutes ago it looked like a little mini-blizard. OK, I think they over shot that "snow shower" prediction. However, it is 32 degrees out so there is snow on the glass. The roads mostly are wet (or atleast that was way earlier this morning when I left). Good thing I could find my warm winter coat in the closet. Seriously, it was like 69 on Monday.
News Linkies:
No, I am not from Michigan, I just temporarily live here: "Mich. Board OKs Curriculum on Evolution"
We learn something new everyday: "Rapid Sea Level Rise in the Arctic Ocean May Alter Views of Human Migration"
Everything is being Google-fied. Nothing is safe, not even writing or spread sheets: "Google launches online writing and spread sheet service" (Of course, I really believe this is a good thing - honest).
The seven secrets of successful programmers (which almost no programmer ever does until they work on a huge project and someone else is going to have to read their code).
Keep you data save, have Darth Vador guard it: "Limited Edition Star Wars USB Flashdrives"
Oh so funny (and somewhat true) comic.
There is no shortage of people bring out video/music players: "Sony says developing video Walkman"
Thanks for stopping by and reading! Stay warm (and dry)!
Friday, December 2, 2005
The precious has returned to it's master...
"So bright... so beautiful... our precious. " - Gollum (Two Towers)
I dropped of the precious (CD) that was forged at Mt. Doom (the CEA lab) today (i.e., I turned in a CD containing the final project for one of my classes - however, doesn't the first way sound so much cooler?). Through out the project code there are references to thePresious, theOne, theString, theCookie...you get the idea. Basically, that is what happens when you decide to write code in the early hours of the morning after having large quantities of caffine.
I left school after 4 AM and drove to my apartment in the 3 inches of snow covering the ground. Of course, they hadn't gotten around to salting or plowing so it was a never interesting drive (i.e., not one I am looking forward to making again anytime soon). It is snowing still. According to the local news channnel it is lake snow effect flurries (i.e., really big chunks of snow). I am sure it will add nicely to the 3+ inches already on the ground. So, Miata + 3 inches of snow + ice + hills + 4 AM = un-fun
I really think I have been working to hard, I am turing my life into a math equation - ohy! Anyway, here are some links. Have fun. I am going to go give a presentation (5 minutes, not much time to really talk about anything - just bottom line it) and then I can actually try and catch up on sleep...oh and study for finals...maybe that will be tomorrow...
Some people are fans of this guy: "Exclusive: Professor X Talks X3"
Have you smelled your car today? "Safer cars through touch, sound and smell"
When will they learn to not mess with google?
"First quantum byte created"
I dropped of the precious (CD) that was forged at Mt. Doom (the CEA lab) today (i.e., I turned in a CD containing the final project for one of my classes - however, doesn't the first way sound so much cooler?). Through out the project code there are references to thePresious, theOne, theString, theCookie...you get the idea. Basically, that is what happens when you decide to write code in the early hours of the morning after having large quantities of caffine.
I left school after 4 AM and drove to my apartment in the 3 inches of snow covering the ground. Of course, they hadn't gotten around to salting or plowing so it was a never interesting drive (i.e., not one I am looking forward to making again anytime soon). It is snowing still. According to the local news channnel it is lake snow effect flurries (i.e., really big chunks of snow). I am sure it will add nicely to the 3+ inches already on the ground. So, Miata + 3 inches of snow + ice + hills + 4 AM = un-fun
I really think I have been working to hard, I am turing my life into a math equation - ohy! Anyway, here are some links. Have fun. I am going to go give a presentation (5 minutes, not much time to really talk about anything - just bottom line it) and then I can actually try and catch up on sleep...oh and study for finals...maybe that will be tomorrow...
Some people are fans of this guy: "Exclusive: Professor X Talks X3"
Have you smelled your car today? "Safer cars through touch, sound and smell"
When will they learn to not mess with google?
"First quantum byte created"
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