First Officer's Blog - Supplemental

Can't Open MS Office 2007 and 2010 files from earlier versions of Office (2003, 2000)

2011-01-05T05:18:00.003-06:00

Installing the Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack:

Before you install this, let's make sure you have all the latest Windows Updates...

1) Go to START (Windows Circle icon in the lower left corner of the screen)
2) Click on Control Panel
3) On the view by menu in the top right corner, change it to 'Large Icons'.
4) Click on "Windows Update" and make sure you install ALL priority updates BEFORE downloading and running the link above
5) Shutdown and Restart

Now all you need to do is download the file above (using the link) and run/install it.

After it successfully installs, then open the Word/Excel/PowerPoint document that you received.

The sender is probably using a newer version of Microsoft Office, most likely 2007, and you have 2003 - that is the likely problem.

Improve your process -- and your bottom line -- with Six Sigma

2010-12-25T12:42:00.000-06:00

A fantastic article from Microsoft Corporate Strategy on Six Sigma...what it is, its philosophy, and how you can put it to work for your company.

Credit: John Knutsen @ Microsoft

New commercial for MDWaters.com

2010-10-08T18:27:00.001-05:00

Windows 95 Turns 15

2010-08-25T14:13:00.000-05:00

Windows 95 turns 15 years old today. Why is that significant? Because Windows 95 was a giant leap forward for Microsoft. Going from Windows (or Windows for Workgroups) 3.11 and DOS 6.22 to Windows 95 was like going from regular TV to High Definition 1080p. It was a revolutionary product and some might even say it was ahead of it's time.

Since then, where have we been? We've gone through the NT products 3.1, 3.51, and 4.0. To Windows 2000. Then we hit Windows XP, which was arguably the most stable Windows OS yet. From there we have to mention the "V" word, that was Windows Vista. The biggest flop at Microsoft since Microsoft Windows ME or Microsoft Bob.

Today, many of us are on Windows 7 which is simply what Windows Vista should have been.

More on this topic from CNN.

Ad Blocker for Google Chrome

2010-08-21T07:53:00.000-05:00

Want your web pages to load faster? Want to eliminate those unsightly and annoying ads?

First of all, download and install Google Chrome. It is the fastest web browser out there and you won't be disappointed.

Next, download the ad blocker extension for Google Chrome. It is amazing!!!! It really works and blocks all those ads. Go to a site you are used to seeing ads on and then see if they still show up. I am very impressed with this simple and light ad blocker.

There are plenty of other extensions (think of them as add ons, or things that add new functionality) in the library, found here. But don't go crazy....the more you install the "heavier" your browser becomes.

Then there are themes. But I prefer not to run a theme, just the standard vanilla theme that installs with Chrome.

Have fun and make YOUR browser work the way YOU want it to.

Droid Incredible's Day of Froyo: August 18?

2010-08-17T05:11:00.000-05:00

Droid Incredible's Day of Froyo: August 18?

My prediction is that the Droid will outsell the iPhone 4 in the very near future. It is more powerful, faster processor, on a better network (Verizon) = better coverage and speed, and has useful apps (as opposed to some of the useless ones at the Apple iTunes Store). Mark my word. Plus, it's as sexy or sexier than the iPhone 4. I consider function over form, and the Droid actually has both. It will be a fun battle to watch. In the meantime, checkout the quote for MOT and maybe even buy some stock, it was up almost $12 yesterday, and that was on a dull day for the market. 'Nuff said.

15 Things Every PC User Should Know

2010-08-17T04:56:00.001-05:00

15 Things Every PC User Should Know

A good article for beginners to experts. Knowledge is power. So add to your knowledge base...read this article, and you'll be that much more computer savvy.

Happy Computing!

What's in Store for Internet Explorer 9?

2010-08-16T05:44:00.001-05:00

Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) 8 was not quite the flop that Microsoft Windows Vista was, but it's close.

I was working on an older PC (Dell Dimension 2400) in the neighborhood of 6-7 years old and since I originally pulled it out of the box and configured it for this customer, it has been running flawlessly. No check-ups needed for this long. The other day I was running some cleanup routines and performing some general maintenance and tweaking, and after all the latest Windows Updates were installed, there was only one left...IE8. We were running IE7 for a reason...it was an older machine and IE8 is a known resource hog and does not run well on older hardware -- unless you are loaded with or maxed out on RAM and have a SATA 3Gps hard drive. This machine has neither....512MB of memory and an older IDE hard drive. IE7 runs fine, assuming you have disabled all unnecessary add-ons and un-installed all those crazy toolbars that will install by default with a lot of popular software utilities. The message here is to skip the IE8 "upgrade" if you have an older machine. Run Google Chrome instead.

So what's in store for IE 9? Let's just hope that speed was a main requirement, and that opening a new tab doesn't take 9 or 10 seconds! Here's a CNET article on the plans for IE 9 Beta.

Need your computer revitalized and cleaned out? Want to remove all that clutter that is slowing you down? Contact Waters Consulting and they'll have you running a precision tune in no time, or the visit is free.

Net Neutrality - What is it?

2010-08-14T06:49:00.000-05:00

It's about keeping the Internet open to all individuals and not having a tiered system whereby some content is delivered as a priority over other content, and/or prioritized by type of device (i.e. computer vs. wireless smart phone). Good info on Google's Blog is found here.

CNET News also has a video on the recent backlash Google received on the issue.

Experts Warn of a Weak Link in the Security of Web Sites

2010-08-14T01:18:00.001-05:00

This is a comforting story. Basically, that little lock icon in your browser indicating that a site is safe and secure (like your bank or brokerage house) might not be accurate.

The best advice is to keep your "secure" online transactions to a limited number of sites YOU trust. Consolidate accounts so you don't have money or investments at various sites. Bottom line, no system, regardless of Operating System (OS) is impenetrable. Hackers these days are going after the browser, not the OS. Keep your internet security software updated, as well as your browser. Don't just sit back and think all your software will keep itself updated.

If you need help in this area, contact Waters Consulting before it's too late.

Big Changes Soon for Your Credit & Debit Cards -- Good News!

2010-08-13T12:14:00.000-05:00

Android Phones Targets of Malware/Spyware

2010-08-11T02:04:00.000-05:00

The Russian Mafia, among other organized crime institutions and hackers, are now targeting the Andriod Phones....stay protected, for free. It won't be long until McAfee and Symantec join in on the market of security software for smartphones.

Waking up in the middle of the night

2010-08-08T03:18:00.000-05:00

Here's a good video on the topic. Since I really like doing blog entires at 4:20am. Happy Day!

Predictive Analysis Technology - New Web Startup

2010-08-01T14:24:00.000-05:00

Google Ventures and the investment arm of the CIA funded a company that searches out connections between people, groups, and events, according to a report in Wired.

The company, which is called Recorded Future, offers a technology for predictive analysis which lets people to "visualize the future, past, or present."

Pretty fascinating and a little scary. My supercomputer here at home running this software predicted that you would read this blog entry.

Facebook Privacy Leak?

2010-08-01T01:35:00.002-05:00

There are over 500,000,000 - yes that's over 500 MILLION people on Facebook, and apparently some entrepreneur claims to have captured information from the "public" parts of some 100 million Facebook profiles. More from CNN Video...

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerburg has been in and out of the news a lot over the past few months about privacy settings in Facebook, and what information is "public" (i.e. crawled by Google and other search engine web crawlers) and what information is viewable to your friends in Facebook, etc. But the fact remains, all those wall posts and pictures are being saved in the "cloud" and you really don't know what is being done or going to be done with it. Maybe that's where the loopy smile is coming from on Zuckerburg's corporate bios page.

Remember folks, information is not only power, it's worth money. End of story.

The Swagger Wagon - Toyota Sienna SE

2010-07-31T04:34:00.002-05:00

Y2CARE?

2010-07-23T20:51:00.000-05:00

It appears that the Internet is running out of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. These are the unique numbers assigned to devices that connect to the Internet, and with more and more devices connecting (smart phones, netbooks, servers, etc) experts say we are close to running out of IP addresses. Wow. That's like Y2K all over again.

There is a solution, but it's been in development for a decade. More on CNN.

Shopping Portal

2010-07-20T06:22:00.003-05:00

Welcome to The First Officer's Blog. It's not just a blog, it's a destination.

I am committed to providing my visitors and customers with products and services from one of the most reliable and reputable online shopping sites ever...Amazon.com. I hope you enjoy your visit and return again.

Visit Amazon.com! These are just a few of the popular items right now...click on one of them to start browsing. Clicking on any one will not prompt you to purchase it, it will simply bring you to the item description page for that item.

Windows 2000 End-of-Support

2010-07-13T06:49:00.000-05:00

It is a sad day for anyone still running Windows 2000. Today marks the end-of-support for this OS platform.

I have an older IBM PC 300PL (486), even maxed out with 512MB of RAM, that runs Windows 2000 Professional. I use it as a file server on my home LAN and it runs flawlessly. It never crashes and never needs to be rebooted, except after a big patch Tuesday from Microsoft. But after today, no more updates or patches via Windows Update.

I felt compelled to write about this today because this is a good example of using older hardware for an important purpose. With a fast network card and plenty of disk space you can do a lot with an old 486 or even Pentium machine that won't run the latest OS. Sure, ubuntu is a viable alternative and there are plenty of other open source NAS software solutions out there too. Bottom line, I have a network backup solution that always delivers.

It's the end of an era...but if you want to reminisce about the good 'old days and experience them for yourselves...Amazon still sells Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional for only $152. What a deal!

Using PowerCfg in Windows 7 to Evaluate System Energy Efficiency

2010-07-11T14:03:00.000-05:00

Is your desktop or laptop "green"? We've all set the standard power options...for our display to turn off after 1 hour or our hard drives to spin down/turn off after a specified period of time too, but did you know you might have devices that are using significant amounts of energy while your computer is idle?

I found this little tip in a gamer's magazine...you know, aimed at those over-clocking, water-cooling, tweaking freaks. Well, I am definitely a tweaker and am always trying out the latest tips and tricks and registry hacks to make my system run more smoothly or efficiently.

Here's what you need to do:
1) close all applications, even the ones down in the task bar....leave just anti-virus and firewall stuff running.
2) open a command prompt
3) at the C:\> prompt type in: powercfg -energy -output c:\windows\temp\energytest.html

View the output file in the web browser for some very detailed information relayed in a power efficiency diagnostics report. This is especially helpful if you want to maximize your laptop's battery life.

Basically, look at all the errors first and see if you can find updated device drivers for any device that Windows is reporting will not let it enter sleep mode. That's all I know right now...as I just learned about this command line utility.

Intel N550 Dual-Core Netbook Available At $349-399 in 3rd Qtr 2010

2010-06-29T12:10:00.000-05:00

Looking to buy a Netbook? You have two strategies...wait for current configurations with existing Atom processors to drop when the new N550 comes out (scheduled for the 3rd Quarter of 2010), or wait and buy a Netbook with the new Intel N550 Dual-Core processor.

Netbookreviews.net has a nice article with benchmark info.

Here is an Intel link with some good information, including a processor comparison chart.

Microsoft Windows XP - SP4?

2010-06-28T14:36:00.000-05:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of formatting a couple of laptops and installing Windows XP Pro SP3 (OEM Dell CDs) on them (since the sticker on the bottom showed that's what they were licensed for). Once they were up and running and all the special hardware drivers from Dell were loaded and I was online, I was wonderfully amazed at how many "updates" were required when I visited windowsupdate.microsoft.com. There were no less than 77 fixes/patches/updates to be installed. Then once all of those are finally downloaded and installed, the machine (at a newer patch level) realizes it needs some more updates! So we download and install about 7 more!

My question to Microsoft is this...where is Service Pack 4??? Clearly there are enough updates/patches that could easily be rolled into XP SP4, so where is it?

I realize many have moved on from XP, either to Vista or 7, and that XP will hit end-of-life and be unsupported sometime in 2014. However, why incur a cost to "upgrade" to 7 when you have an XP CD already on hand? Four more years is a long time and by then we'll have Windows 10...which I'm sure will have artificial intelligence and mind-connect via Bluetooth. In the meantime, for those who paid for XP with a system and have the software, it takes HOURS to re-build a machine to a fully-patched level. I'll even challenge you that a fully-patched XP system is no different than a fully-patched Windows 7 setup, you just don't get all the eye candy and glitz -- and on older hardware there really isn't another choice. XP is tried and true. Large corporations are still using it and deploying it. Even on the Dell Small Business web site, I can order an OptiPlex desktop with the XP Pro "downgrade" option.

So Microsoft, can you help us IT Admins out a bit?

Using your BlackBerry Curve to work as a modem

2009-12-30T11:51:00.000-06:00

Follow the steps below. Make sure you follow the directions & type everything in just as you see it. Step 2, Line 6 is very important!

A BlackBerry device (with tethered modem capability) can be used as an external modem to connect a laptop computer to the Internet.

To set up a tethered modem, complete the following tasks:

1. Install BlackBerry Desktop Software version 4.1 or later

2. Set up the Internet Access Point Name (APN) (one time only)

3. Configure dial-up networking (one time only)

4. Connect the BlackBerry device to BlackBerry Desktop Manager

5. Connect to the Internet using dial-up networking

Step 1

Install BlackBerry Desktop Software version 4.1 or later on the laptop or personal computer.

When you install BlackBerry Desktop Software, the drivers that enable the BlackBerry device to communicate through the USB port and virtual COM port are installed. The Standard Modem, which is used by dial-up networking, is also installed.

Note: If you are upgrading your BlackBerry Desktop Software from version 4.0 to 4.1, the required Virtual COM Port and Standard Modem might be removed during the upgrade process. If this is the case, re-install the BlackBerry Desktop Software 4.1 or later and choose the Repair option to re-install these components.

Step 2

Set up Internet APN.

1. Go to Start > Settings > Control Panel.

2. Double-click Phone and Modem Options.

3. In the Phone and Modem Options window, click the Modems tab.

4. Select Standard Modem and click Properties.

5. In the Standard Modem Properties window, Click the Advanced Tab.

6. In the Extra initialization commands field, type the following: +cgdcont=1,"IP",""

(remove<>when typing in your APN)

Example 1: +cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.cingular"

Example 2: +cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.verizon”

Note: If you do not know your Internet APN, or if you do not have an Internet APN, contact your service provider.

7. Click OK.

8. In the Phone and Modem Options window, click OK.

ATT/Cingular Settings

APN: wap.cingular

user name for APN: WAP@CINGULARGPRS.COM

Password: CINGULAR1

This is how I found my settings on my BB Curve - Options>Advanced Options>TCP. The APN will say, for example, wap.cingular

Step 3

To configure dial-up networking, complete the procedure that corresponds with the operating system you are using.

Windows XP Operating System

1. Go to Start > Settings > Network Connections.

2. Double-click New Connection Wizard. The New Connection Wizard opens.

3. Click Next.

4. Select the Connect to the Internet option. Click Next.

5. Select Setup my connection manually. Click Next.

6. Select Connect using a dial-up modem. Click Next.

7. If the Select a Device screen appears, select the Modem - Standard Modem check box. Click Next.

8. In the ISP Name field, type a name for your connection. Click Next.

9. In the Phone number field, type *99#. Click Next.

10. Indicate which users will have access to the connection. Click Next.

11. Enter the user name and password provided by your service provider. Click Next.

12. Click Finish.

13. In the Connect window, click Properties.

14. In the Properties window, verify that Modem - Standard Modem appears beneath the Connect using heading, and then click Configure.

15. In the Modem Configuration window, clear the Enable hardware flow control check box and make sure none of the other check boxes are selected. Click OK.

16. In the Properties window, click OK.

Step 4

Connect the BlackBerry device to the computer and verify that BlackBerry Desktop Manager displays Connected. The device must be identified by BlackBerry Desktop Manager in order for the modem to establish a connection.

Important: BlackBerry Desktop Manager must be running for the tethered modem to function.

Step 5

Connect to the Internet using dial-up networking.

Note: During this procedure, do not operate the BlackBerry Browser or any third-party applications on the BlackBerry device. An active data session may interfere with the modem connection. Connect the BlackBerry device to the laptop computer.

1. Open BlackBerry Desktop Manager.

2. Click Start > Settings > Network Connections > .

3. Enter the user name and password provided by your service provider. (this should be saved there already)

4. Click Dial.

Zhu Zhu Pets

2009-12-20T07:31:00.002-06:00

Zhu Zhu Pets are all the rage. It's like the tickle me Elmo craze from years past where people were paying insane amounts of money to have these items by Christmas.

One note, you don't want Mr. Squiggles, he has issues and we had to return him. There's another one that is his color and just has a different name.

This year, we're seeing Zhu Zhu Pets going for well over $100 on eBay, from what I would simply call very greedy people or companies.

There will be a HUGE shipment of them coming in January, so what I would recommend is you wait until they are back in stock and the supply is there enough to bring the prices back down to reality. How is it not fun to get an after-Christmas present? Plus, when the prices return to normal levels, you can get two Zhu Zhu Pets and they actually "talk" to one another. They are cute little toys, but only plastic and fake fur and you should not be paying more than the $14.99 price at Hallmark.

Just my thoughts...wanted to try and save some of you a lot of cash this holiday season. We all want to get that perfect toy to put under the tree, but is it worth it? Celebrate Christmas on the 26th or even in mid-January and you'll find half the stuff you bought marked down half price.

Merry Christmas to all, and remember the reason for the season!

FBI Releases Warning about Scareware

2009-12-16T00:59:00.004-06:00

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released a warning to alert users about an ongoing threat involving pop-up security messages that appear on the Internet. These pop-up messages may contain seemingly legitimate anti-virus software. Users who click on these pop-up messages to purchase and install the bogus software may become infected with malicious code or to become victims of a phishing attack. This is a very real threat and we have seen and treated infected customers. Please click on the link above to read the complete warning.

Install legitimate anti-virus software, and keep the signature files up to date.

Use caution when entering personal and financial information online.

Install software applications from only trusted sources.

For more information on being secure online, check out US-CERT.

A-S-U!!!

2009-12-12T00:11:00.004-06:00

Appalachian State Mountaineers | College Football at CBSSports.com

It looks like we ARE in Montana!!

So if App beats unbeaten Montana (13-0) this afternoon, we are then ONE game away from another national championship? Would that be 4 national championships in 5 years? Wow. Go Apps!!!!

How proud can one be of his alma mater? Extremely proud.

12/13 (Sunday) Update: OK, so it was heartbreaking...we ran out of steam late in the 4th quarter. We played a great team and played a great game. I'm proud of my Mountaineers. Keep playing the game like this and you will be a contender next year too!

4 ways to take control of your e-mail Inbox

2009-11-20T03:42:00.002-06:00

Do you have an effective way to process and organize your e-mail so that you can get to an empty Inbox on a routine basis? If you have lots of e-mail in your Inbox—we know people with as many as 7,000 messages—you might want to rethink your processing methods. Really, it is possible to empty your Inbox. The key is to evaluate how you are processing and organizing your e-mail and make some changes.

Here is a great article on the best practices that will allow you to more effectively deal with Outlook (and e-mail in general, whether you are on Yahoo! or Gmail).

I've been using this system, or a variation of it, for about 6 years now, and I can tell you that I go home every day with an empty Inbox.

Increase your productivity, while decreasing stress. Trust me, this process works. No longer do you have to let email manage you, you can manage it.

Related to this process, you must be using the Rules Wizard to help manage the incoming items. The power of that feature is almost endless.

Here is another great article on tips and tricks for using Outlook more effectively.

Outlook - The Unleashed Power

2009-11-12T16:36:00.002-06:00

I found what I call a gem or maybe a diamond in the rough today...I have been looking for how to do this for years!!!

Thanks go to the blogger, Andrew Harcourt. He nailed it. If people are going to abuse e-mail, then stop letting them waste YOUR time.

http://www.codingforfunandprofit.com/2009/08/automatically-rejecting-appointments-in.html

There are always exceptions to the rule, so modify the script. I thought 24 hours or less was a little too restrictive in this "team player" world, so I notched it down to 15.

Anyway, once you process what this means, you are going to find some truly incredible things to do with it. Where have I been? Using VBA script to put time back into your day and stop letting e-mail manage you...it changes everything.

A Very Good Op/Ed on Healthcare Reform

2009-11-11T10:21:00.002-06:00

Short and simple...
http://epaper.timesfreepress.com/Repository/getFiles.asp?Style=OliveXLib:ArticleToMail&Type=text/html&Path=ChatTFPress/2009/11/11&ID=Ar02401&Locale=

Yes, we need to reform the healthcare system and create a system that provides affordable health insurance for those that cannot afford it, but not for illegal aliens, those who choose not to have health care, and students who might be covered under another plan. The figure that the mainstream media (and some politicians) tout is waaaay overstated.

This is a perfect opportunity to demonstrate true bipartisanship and work on something that really matters. Instead we continue to avoid the real work that needs to be done and go for the PC things that just feed instant gratification like 'cash for clunkers'.

Spread the word and let's bring some common sense back to Washington.

Muslim Terrorist Sleeper Cells?

2009-11-09T11:00:00.006-06:00

The incident at Fort Hood in Texas highlights the fact that we have people living amongst us in the US that are Muslim extremists and intend to inflict harm (and terror). I think it is a huge wake up call. Our troops are not safe at their own bases?

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/fort-hood-shooter-contact-al-qaeda-terrorists-officials/story?id=9030873

We should be outraged (and I know many are) and demand our leaders and this administration take action and make this a #1 priority to investigate and prosecute this individual. More importantly, interrogate him thoroughly.

I am disappointed how the media thinks Healthcare Reform and the CMA awards are the top stories.

Bottom line...it's a reality that we need to be vigilant and always aware of our surroundings. Our men and women serving this country were not safe at their own base? This should be a call to action and a reminder that the war on terror takes many forms and is fought on many levels.

See also: http://thebulletin.us/articles/2009/01/22/top_stories/doc49781a64e0d2b381984861.txt

In Memory of Vivien Packard Thompson

2009-10-26T14:30:00.000-05:00

In Memory of Vivien Packard Thompson

My dear grandmother, Tammy, passed away on Wednesday, October 21st. She was a very special person in my life. I have many fond memories of summers at her home in Danby, Vermont...picking raspberries and playing gin rummy. I will miss her very much.

No shortage of stupidity

2009-10-13T09:51:00.003-05:00

Not much to write on this topic...when a picture is worth a thousand words:
http://tech.msn.com/products/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=22075234&imageindex=10

Hypocrite of the Week

2009-10-07T09:56:00.006-05:00

Mrs. Palin is using her Facebook page as a new kind of political podium: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/10/07/2091548.aspx

She felt the need to express her opinions on troop levels in Afghanistan. It would be a whole separate decision to make if we had gone into Afghanistan initially (where Osama was) rather than forcing 'democracy' on Iraq and losing or wounding so many soldiers there.

"...not the time for cold feet"? This is true hypocracy...coming from someone who quit her job as Governor of Alaska because she couldn't handle the demands (like taking action) of a leadership role. Then again, now that she is unemployed she has a lot more time to keep her Facebook page updated with her random musings about healthcare and the “war on terror”. I've got news for you Sarah, just because you were chosen as a running mate for the Senator from Arizona doesn't make you any kind of expert on foreign or domestic policy. Let's let our elected officials handle that stuff.

Man's ashes laid to rest in computer

2009-10-02T12:12:00.001-05:00

Well...this is how I think I'd like to go out...very clever.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-10365289-71.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-5

Just put my ashes in an old Dell PC.

Welcome to Bonnet Creek

2009-05-24T11:23:00.003-05:00

After a long trip down here, 7 hours one day and then another 4 the next, we arrived safely at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek. It's a long trip, but we'll be here a week so after a 'down' day today of relaxing by the pool, we should be ready to hit our vacation. We plan on seeing Kennedy Space Center, Disney MGM/Hollywood Studios, and possibly do one other activity/event. The rest of the time should be spent relaxing on this vacation. We're staying in Tower 4, which is across the lake from where we stayed in Tower 2 last time. They are almost complete with all the construction and in another couple of years this place will be quite a sight to see (as if it isn't already great enough). It's crowded, but not too much. It will be interesting to see how packed the other places will be. Even though it is a long holiday weekend, I somehow expected it to be busier.

Thanks Dad

2009-05-21T06:33:00.002-05:00

I'm reading a book called "Wild at Heart" -- Discovering the secret of a man's soul. In a nutshell it's about how men are initiated into this world by other men, and especially by their Fathers/Dads. Without this critical element, many men flounder and just barely exist and as a result, become less of a man as time goes on.

My Dad is visiting with me this week and we've always shared a very special relationship. Both business-minded and extremely loyal, I get more insight from his old IBM stories each time I hear them. Amazingly, there are still some I have not heard and to feel the energy and passion my Dad had for doing a quality job is palpable. He also cares about my mother very much and he shared with me how important it is to always kiss your mate when you are leaving to go somewhere. Simple but good advice. I've learned a lot from my father over the years and we've shared some wonderful memories and laughs. Our senses of humor can bring us both to tears rather quickly and as anyone will tell you, laughing is great for the soul.

It's just rejuvenating to have him here and has helped charge my batteries, which as of late have not been performing at full capacity.

We shared a nice evening last night listening to Michael Card speak at our church. Bob's death put to question and doubt all faith in God by my Dad and me, but I think we connected last night and realized that Jesus was victorious over the grave and we will live on in eternity and someday see him again. We learned that doubt and faith go hand in hand, it's ok to doubt things and question everything. It's what helps cultivate our faith during the journey.

Thanks Dad, for initiating me into this world and preparing me for the crazy business world. I love you.

What a turkey!

2009-05-18T05:53:00.003-05:00

At 5:45a running across our yard were 6 turkeys. They were moving fast so it was difficult to get the camera out fast enough and catch a good picture.

This one was a pretty big sucker, too bad we're not closer to Thanksgiving...I could have given thanks for the free turkeys and had my own county fair turkey shoot.

60mph on a "scooter"?

2009-05-17T08:44:00.002-05:00

Although it doesn't look like a scooter, the new Vectrix VX-1 maxi scooter can travel 244 miles on one charge. No gas!! What a deal. Now there's a way to save the environment and release our dependence on foreign oil. No small price tag though, you'll have to drop $8,000 for this scooter.

Can't sleep

2009-05-16T03:06:00.004-05:00

I've had periods of sleep this evening. Went to bed around 9:45p, but overall I am restless and cannot sleep. The morning cannot come fast enough. Not sure of the cause, but restless is the best way to describe it. Lying in bed I cannot get still or comfortable. Hopefully, after Lauren's Birthday Party today (which I think I'm as excited about as she is), I'll be able to get a restful nap.

I bought 4 mylar balloons -- one yellow, one blue, one red, and one green (for her 4th Birthday) and they are in her room and will be there when she wakes up. I think I have started a tradition. But it's a fun one. I mean, you're only these wonderful ages once. I want to keep it magical for her for as long as she'll let me.

I think I'm going to try sleeping on the couch, maybe that change will allow me to get some shut eye. It's worth a try.

The Situation Room

2009-05-14T12:07:00.003-05:00

My new favorite show is The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and he checks in at least hourly with Jack Cafferty who writes a great blog, The Cafferty File. I often sound off on his blog and just enjoy the way Wolf reports the events of the day.

Confessions of an ISP Customer Service Rep

2009-05-14T05:03:00.003-05:00

Warning: This one might make you mad. It's a tell-all from a former ISP (Internet Service Provider) representative. We all know most of it, but reading it somehow makes it more real. Here's the article. It's all about educating ourselves so we are better prepared to deal with these bureaucracies. You might want to do some deep breathing or yoga before reading the article though.

A place where we are called to live out our faith: the business world.

2009-05-12T15:06:00.001-05:00

Great blog post at Gospel.com. Makes me think I might be on the right path.

Dealing with Crisis

2009-05-12T11:42:00.003-05:00

Tony Dungy's blog post for today (dated May 12, 2009) is outstanding, and I wanted to link to it from here. The part that grabbed me...

"One of the things that helps me during life’s challenges is to stay calm and not rush into decisions or take actions born out of frustration, sadness or discouragement. If we can be patient, time not only helps heal some of our wounds, it can also help reveal what our next steps should be".

My job search has been much like that...I've been working very hard at it, and been extremely patient and at peace with what God has planned for me. In the peace and patience....I feel the path being etched ahead of me as I walk.

Entertainment or News?

2009-05-12T11:32:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure if this site is more entertainment or more news? But some of the headlines are way out there. For reporting with substance you must go to the BBC or NPR, but most of the time I put this site in the same category as Rush L. One is too far left and the other is too far right. Reminds me of Jon Stewart on Comedy Central...what category is that, making fun of news stories and trying to take some of the "terror" and fear generating out of the news. I think it's healthy to see different perspectives, and realize we are all humans, but the puppets in Washington don't know how to laugh at themselves. Where is the humility, where is the accountability....it's lost in the power and greed, and definitely in special interests and lobbyists.

Nonetheless, some interesting reading.

FBI - Cyber Crimes Division

2009-05-11T10:21:00.003-05:00

Had I gotten the job at the FBI, and gone through 16 weeks at Quantico, VA...I surely would have been assigned to the Cyber Crimes Division. Here's a neat article on one who went undercover to solve some such crimes.

For those of you who were unaware, I was selected for Phase II interviews in December 2007 in Maryland, near BWI Airport. Although I didn't pass (oral and written examinations), at least I followed my dreams. It's simply pass or fail, and you don't receive feedback on which part you passed or failed.

I completed and passed Phase I testing back in 1998. At age 37 or over one is not qualified to become a Special Agent. So while that part of the dream has died, my passion for being a part of solving cyber crimes has not. As I don't have to work in the field to help and could be a part of special task forces who analze computers and storage media for evidence. We'll see what the future holds as I continue to pursue that part of the dream.

Pastor Rick Warren - Insights

2009-05-11T08:41:00.006-05:00

Someone else did a beautiful job cleaning up the e-mail that has been going around...Pastor Rick Warren: Insight Since His Wife’s Cancer Diagnosis. I wanted to post a link to it on my blog. And remember, it's about character, not comfort. I've even said it before myself...we are supposed to be human beings, not always humans doing.

Is Facebook Losing It's Glow?

2009-05-08T08:58:00.002-05:00

Interesting article. It begs the continued question about how this social networking phenomenon will continue to pay for it's increasing expenses. People are uploading 850 million photos each day?? Holy gigabyte Batman!!! That means server storage space will continue to climb. Now hard drives are cheap, but you need a lot of hard drives and backups (and networked servers) to store that kind of data --- DAILY. Even if Microsoft and Chinese investors own significant shares of the privately-held company, it has yet to show anyone it is making a profit.

So the lesson? A couple of them...1) make sure you have a copy of all those photos you uploaded to Facebook stored somewhere else. and 2) if you think Facebook is running slowly, think about all the data and users being semi-conducted by the Facebook network.

Because we still live in a dot com world, and one day they're here and next day they might not be.

Signing off from cyber-space...your future is what you make of it, so make it a good one!

50 Nifty Tricks for Big DIY Savings

2009-05-07T15:00:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite shows used to be "This Old House" on PBS. While reading some news, I came across a link to this great article on "50 Nifty Tricks for Big Do-It-Yourself Savings". Imagine what would happen if everyone started doing stuff like this and saving money and energy.

This downturn in the economy has created a whole new type of consumer...the frugal one. I think too much consumerism in the past fueled this major consumer debt problem the US is facing right now. We could all learn a few tips on being money smart and frugal. After all, it all adds up.

Wattz up Doc?

2009-05-05T08:05:00.002-05:00

Cool site of the day. Setup an account and then take the survey and see how much enegy your household represents (your 'footprint'). If we all could cut back just 1%, imagine the difference it could make nationwide for our planet. We need to change our lifestyles and CONSUME less energy...and recycle.

Maybe it's time for a goat

2009-05-04T13:59:00.004-05:00

I think Yahoo and Google have a great idea. No more pushing that mower and emptying those clippings into a bag. Just get yourself a goat! Amazingly simple, yet effective. But then you have to feed (and milk?) the goat and clean up after it. Not sure which I prefer less, owning a lawn mower or a goat.

We are GO for launch!

2009-05-03T08:40:00.003-05:00

One last mission of the space shuttle Atlantis to 'standard orbit' of earth to repair/upgrade the Hubble Telescope. This wondrous telescope or eye to the galaxies is an important part of our space exploration from the ground.

We recently observed, from ground telescopes "...the X-ray afterglow and calculated it had traveled 13.035 billion light-years to get here [for us to see it]. The event (dubbed GRB 090423) is the most distant cosmic explosion ever witnessed, beating old records by 100 or 200 million light-years." This is like looking back in time, or finding an old picture of yourself when you were 2 years old. It is estimated that this star was 1 million (or so) years old and 30 times the size of our sun. A true "blast from the past".

It not only shows how long the universe has been here, but also how large the universe is...sit and think about that one for a minute. Now, do you really think that earth is the only planet that can sustain and has sustained life? With galaxy after galaxy in a universe this large, I believe we would be ignorant to think we are the only planet out there with life.

Like in the old Star Trek: The Next Generation, if we had a powerful computer running our home, we'd almost like to ask, "Computer: What is the nature of the universe?".

Our universe is definitely not collapsing, rather, I think our minds are...

Cyber-Warfare

2009-05-02T21:11:00.004-05:00

Are we on the task or not? It's a very real threat, and some of our government agencies are lagging way behind the technology curve. Not just on age of their systems or applications, but also on setting up defenses appropriately and monitoring and coordinating attack info.

Swine Flu Crib Sheet

2009-04-30T18:15:00.003-05:00

Here is a good article on 5 things you need to know about the swine flu or "2009 H1N1 virus" as it is now referred.

Cross reference to my corporate blog

2009-04-29T11:02:00.003-05:00

For those of you interested, I am just linking to my 'corporate' blog.

Kentucky Rains

2009-04-28T09:08:00.004-05:00

I'm spending some time just outside Louisville, KY (a little bit east of downtown) and watching the rain pour down outside. I'm told there is a little horse race here on Saturday afternoon, actually it's a day full of races...there are 13 total races scheduled on this day, with the Kentucky Derby running during Race No. 11. These rains are good for the track and keep the dust down. It's "Derby Week" here and the Kentucy Derby is a big deal. Did you know there are big races on Friday as well? They are called the Kentucky Oaks. I learned that last night.

I like the jerseys and how the jockey matches the horse. What impressive animals these horses are...the best of the best racing for the 135th time for the roses at Churchill Downs.

A country at war

2009-04-22T22:59:00.003-05:00

We've spent a lot of money on this war on terror, and if you are one of those who thinks it's a waste or don't think we are at war with evil, then please view this video.

This is an American platoon patrolling the Korangal Valley in Afghanistan. They found themselves pinned in a riverbed, which had blossomed into a kill zone.

Then if that doesn't give you pause, think about the Taliban having access to nuclear weapons.

Earth Day

2009-04-22T10:06:00.002-05:00

I read a few interesting things today...

One was that scientists agree that what will happen in our environment and climate for something like the next 30-50 years has already been set into motion. In other words, actions today are really setting the stage for what the earth of 2060 will look like and that damage has already been done.

The other nugget I liked was that in 100 years or so, we're going to have to start moving to space and create "homes" there. Sit and think about that one. In order for that to work, we would have to put aside this current human desire to accumulate wealth and "work" for a living. Our new jobs could be in space, exploring space, and charting the unknown realms of our own minds.

Does anyone know when Mars Day is?

Thought for the day

2009-04-20T11:10:00.005-05:00

"The clock is running. Make the most of today. Time waits for no man. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it is called the present."

Sedona, AZ

2009-04-05T16:19:00.006-05:00

Wow, this place is nature at it's best. Breathtaking and spectacular sights are everywhere. The air is fresh and clean and you just feel rejuvenated coming here. Perfect for someone on the mend, like me. However, the drawback is it's very dry here, so drink lots of water. My fingertips feel like sandpaper.

We arrived late on Saturday evening at the Wyndham Sedona, and were all exhausted, some of us to the point of tears. After a 4 1/2 hour flight from Atlanta, I had to wait for almost 2 hours for a car from Hertz. Then drove back to the airport to get the family and bags. Not a fun start to the vacation.

Day 1 - Sunday
Relaxed in the morning, as my medication keeps me from truly waking up until late morning, even if I've gotten 9+ hours of sleep. Very frustrating, but now it is mid afternoon and we are planning on a Pink Jeep Tour later today. I just want to go into one of those Vortexes (maybe somewhat like the Nexus) and lose myself for a few time stopping moments.

Spent some time at the beautiful pool here at the Wyndham Sedona. Absolutely a great place. We booked this stay 11 months ago because it is probably the #2 destination by Wyndham members, next to Bonnet Creek (where we own our property).

Day 2 - Monday
We left around 8:30a for the Grand Canyon. It's a really big canyon; I plan on doing a Chevy Chase and then will be ready to head back. We got back here a little before 10p. It was a long day and we took a lot of awesome pictures. We stopped numerous times on the way up at various suggested points, and then came into the south canyon from the east entrance and drove down to the Grand Canyon Village area. Saw a beautiful sunset at Powell Point, which was at exactly 6:55p local AZ time. Returned home late, all of us were crabby and exhausted.

Day 3 - Tuesday
The Pink Jeep Tour was AWESOME!!! Pictures will show it all. We rode on the "Broken Arrow" tour, one of the best ones.

A lazy day today, after such a long day yesterday. Pool time with Lauren and Daddy, and then up to the room for lunch. Everyone, except Banks and I are napping at 2:22p, and we are planning on seeing some local Sedona things (the old downtown) later this afternoon into the evening.

Day 4 - Wednesday
Headed south to "Out of Africa", which is a wild life preserve caring for many species found on the African plains. We went on the Serengeti Safari and fed a giraffe! It was just like being out in Africa in the Serengeti plains. It was a full day, we left there around 4pm or so, and headed out to see Montezuma Castle. We've visited a lot of national parks so far, but not enough to have paid for an $80 yearly membership fee for the National Parks. But more great pictures were captured, and they will be on my public picasa web album soon.

Day 5 - Thursday
A lazy morning, some slight heavy eyelids for me (medication), but spent a relaxing and productive morning on my laptop getting caught up on the job search and other matters, while Angela, Ty, and Lauren visited the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Relaxing afternoon at the pool with Lauren, reading, and then a nice chair massage at 5pm rounded out a true vacation day.

Day 6 - Friday
Expecting my brother Scott to return to Sedona (from north Phoenix) and spend the day with us before we head out early tomorrow morning (arriving back in Nashville around 10p CST). I believe we are going to Jerome (which is just south of here). Haunted hotels and hamburgers is what I hear it's all about. An old mining town.

Day 7 - Saturday
The trip back across the country on Delta. On the way over, even the coach seats had video screens and fancy USB ports to charge your gadgets. I was very impressed with this newer aircraft. Who needs free drinks and food in first class when I can charge my MP3 player at 38,000 feet in coach?

Recovering

2009-03-31T19:31:00.002-05:00

I'm still recovering from a 'blunt injury to the head'. Be careful of those training room chairs, when the back legs are spread like a triangle....whoooosh. I was sitting in the back of a training room and the chair basically fell out from underneath me and my head hit the back wall.

Was in the hospital for 3 1/2 days and been home since 3/19/09. Day by day, moment by moment, I am getting better and better.

Quite frankly, I'm just glad to be ALIVE. The soundtrack for this month is Celine Dion's "I'm Alive".

Are you LinkedIn?

2007-11-20T09:21:00.000-06:00

My LinkedIn public profile is here: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mdwaters

Cross-reference to my MSN blog

2006-03-04T18:34:00.000-06:00

Still trying to figure out which blog I'm going to use. So for now, this is just a cross-reference to my other web log presence. http://spaces.msn.com/mdw24368/

Lead, follow, or get out of the way.

2005-08-12T21:48:00.000-05:00

I have a business-driven mind, very results-oriented, but at the same time I'm a highly discerning individual. I'm a cross between a career IBM'er and a certified clinical social worker. I'm your exception to most rules, that touchy-feely business guy.

I like to ask questions and ask why? The more questions we ask, the more answers we might find. Here are a few questions rumbling around in my mind - some are related to current topics and others having little to do with current interests of the common individual (and if you know me, I am not common).

- How does the price of a barrel of crude oil in Saudi Arabia so quickly affect the prices at the pumps?
- Bush & Co. meet with Saudi Prince at his ranch in Texas -- why? The Saudi's and their OPEC empire account for about 1/3 of the crude oil pumped, why don't we just go to the producers of the other 2/3 of our crude and dialogue with them?
- Why do people at work prefer to use e-mail as a chat tool as opposed to picking up the telephone and TALKING to each other? I am tired of the e-mail chains that go on and on and on with NO RESULTS!! Everyone is happy to TALK about the problems, but few are willing to step up to the plate and offer to help and contribute to a solution. It wears me out. No wonder I'm so tired at the end of a day/week.
- Why is everyone on the road in such a damn hurry? Cutting each other off, using the shoulder of the road as a turn lane, and just plain nasty, aggressive driving?
- Why does someone else's lack of initiative and ability to plan create a sense of urgency on my part?

These are a few of the things on my mind. Let me know your thoughts.

Quality

2005-07-16T07:45:00.000-05:00

My Dad, a long time veteran of a large corporation (a.k.a. Big Blue), taught me a lot of things about the corporate world. One of them being, quite simply, have a positive attitude and do what you say you are going to do. He also regularly reminded me that "quality means never having to say you're sorry".

I work in a world that is obsessed with e-mail. People abuse it outright. We have some e-mail threads that have gone on so long, it would have taken far less time to pick up the phone and resolve the issue. Better still, all the time wasted in e-mail, is time we could be spending doing proactive things to drive to success. What does this all have to do with quality? I'll tell you, it means we aren't doing our jobs, so we can't be involved in making something that is of higher quality. Whether that be data or customer service. So many of my colleagues spend their days "in e-mail", as if "e-mail" were their main job function. "Oh I'm so busy today, I've got 117 e-mails to read." No you don't. You have a job to do. We just happen to use a communication tool called e-mail. Ah, but alas, so many individuals control their hidden agendas and abuse the power they don't have by commanding their e-mail all day.

I oftentimes just exit Outlook (our e-mail program) for hours at a time. This is so that I can focus in on what I am expected to do....my job. No wonder we can never get anything delivered on time, and no wonder the quality of our deliverables is so low. Is it because we spend too much time addicted to e-mail, instead of using the phone and just doing what everyone is still talking about in e-mail?

In the days before e-mail, people sent "memos", typewritten on real paper. This move to an "electronic world" has really only done one thing - provide a means to hide behind a computer and generate insane amounts of data on a e-mail server.

That's all I have to say about that. Reply and tell me what you think.

Baby Announcement

2005-07-03T10:02:00.000-05:00

Please welcome, a little girl who will one day own a dual Zeon processor Dell laptop, Lauren Julia!

Born on May 16, 2005 at 8:00am.

She weighed in at 8lbs 2oz. Here is a picture of our little princess.

Here's wishing you and yours a happy and safe 4th of July, and hoping all your fireworks are the store bought kind.

Dyson Vacuum

2005-07-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Coupons??!! Yes, use a 20% off coupon for Bed Bath & Beyond (or Linens & Things). Got the DC14 (not the Animal), which is the same vacuum without the over-priced attachments. This one still has the built in 3 attachments, and all work great on baseboards, stairs, or other places. Our bottom line (incl. 9.25% TN tax) was around $375. Niiice.

The "Ball" version is not worth it, the regular models (without the ball) move beautifully and very easily. We (my wife and I) also felt that the extra attachments you can get in the "Animal" version were not worth it. It's the same vacuum. If you decide you want the attachments later, use another 20% off coupon and go get them. It would cost about the same, but can save you $100 today.

Used this thing for the first time last night. Holy crap, THIS THING SUCKS!!!!!! I had just vacuumed with our old Panasonic a few days earlier, and you wouldn't believe what it left behind. I am SOLD. This thing is amazing.

Christmas shopping

2004-12-07T15:25:00.000-06:00

Have you begun your Christmas shopping? Maybe you're already done. I hate going to the mall. You have to drag me in there these days. It's either online shopping or gift cards. Not very creative, but much less stressful.

Tell me your thoughts.

Mozilla Firefox!

2004-11-20T17:58:00.000-06:00

Wow. This browser is cool. It's fast and a nice compact download. It blows IE away!!! You can open multiple web pages using a new tab-style interface...very slick.

Over 5 million people have downloaded this browser and the Mozilla team is shooting for 10 million. I want to help them get there.

Go to www.mozilla.org and download Firefox 1.0 -- I know you'll want to make it your default browser.

Tell me what you think.