Paul's "dot" on the web: Blog

Many no-shows for Ford's Service???????????

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 23:17:45 GMT

Quote

WP: Many no-shows for Ford's service - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com

As with any country, the US has its fair share of faults. We are not perfect. We don't have all of the answers to the world's problems. Just like everyone else, we make mistakes.

However, after reading the above article I am more ashamed of our political leaders than I have been in a long time. Few of our political leaders bothered to attend former President Ford's funeral. Yes, as the article states, it is a holiday weekend. Yes, there are many football games going on (I can't believe someone wanted to know the score of a game!). Yes, Sadam Hussein was put to death. Yes, many of them were on vacation. Did the Supreme Court REALLY need to take a vote to decide if any or all of them would attend? Is that legislative body so incapable of independent thinking they can't make their own decisions?

But the worst of all is that our living former Presidents and CURRENT President could not be bothered to attend. People who have read various postings of mine know that I am not a fan of President George W. Bush, but even I was stunned that he felt the need to "clear cedar" on his ranch than to return to Washington for the funeral. It’s not like he has to pay the airfare - he has his own plane! On top of that he is quoted as saying about President Ford "He always put the needs of his country before his own." I find that ironic that Bush, who has a complete staff to take care of his ranch, felt that clearing cedar was more important than the needs of his own country. Mr. Bush (honorific intentionally left out) you should think about living up to your statements about others.

I fully admit that I was young enough when Ford became President, that I don't remember a great deal of what he did while in office. But I do know that he didn't ask for the position, he became president through succession during the ending of the Nixon (Watergate) scandal. But he stepped up to the plate and did his job.

Regardless of my personal opinion about a specific political leader in any country, one who does their job ethically, humanitarily, and to the best of their ability should be treated with dignity by their country's leaders upon their death. Not a "phone in eulogy" as Bush did. Not attending secondary services, and certainly not doing unnecessary yard work on their ranch.

Everyday people drop what they are doing, travel thousands of miles, and often go to extremes to attend the services of a deceased family member. While politicians are in a "profession" they are also an exclusive group - much like a family. They certainly can make the same efforts. Sorry, but it comes with the job you choose.

Mr. Bush, ask yourself. How will you feel if the current President stays home and does yard work when your funeral comes around. Not a pleasant thought is it?

New Look for www.EasyMeds2005.NET

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 23:11:58 GMT

New look for www.EasyMeds2005.NET and reduced pricing for Tramadol!!!

Be sure to take a look!

www.EasyMeds2005.NET

Time to Look for a New Job

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 20:51:41 GMT

Well I recently fishished up my latest project for Microsoft. Now the exciting task of looking for something new starts!! If anyone in the Seattl area knows of a company looking for a communicaitons manager, web producer, or general manager to build or repair a disfunctional team let me know. My background is varried from teaching, managing teachers, developinging curriculum, web production, formal internal and external communiations, web design and content editing just to summarize.

Other than that, there isn't a lot of exciting things going on. For those of you who have followed the remodle of my house, I am about to have the final 2 rooms completed and then I can finally live in a house that isn't under construction! That will be a great day!.

Hope every one is well!!

Paul

Avoid Sprint/Nextel Cell Service

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 00:51:03 GMT

Avoid Sprint/Nextel cell service at all costs. They will screw you over, and do not provide any type of customer service. You would be better off using 2 tin cans with a string between them!!!

If you are a current Sprint user, don't commit to any type of service contract that my be associated with upgrades, etc. You will be stuck with it and not get the service you were promised.

Paul

Does Anyone Use Sprint/Nextel Cell Phones

Sat, 07 Oct 2006 02:07:48 GMT

Does anyone use Sprint/Nextel cell service? If so, what experieince aryou having (or have had) with them?

Thanks!

Paul

Microsoft Windows Vista

Sat, 30 Sep 2006 17:09:12 GMT

Has anyone install beta versions of Microsoft Windows Vista? If so, what has your experience been (yes I know it is a beta version so it would not be bug-free).

I'm thinking about installing it but thought I would get some real world thoughts about installing the operating system this early.

Thanks!!

Paul

Wow! Along Time Since I Blogged!

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 02:28:21 GMT

Wow - I can't believe how long it has been since I posted something here. Where does the time go? I went back to work and it has been crazy. Long days and a lot of things to fix, but the project is starting to come together (I was hired to fix a completely screwed up project) so that is a good thing. The best part of all is I have a great manager - nothing at all like the nightmare person that I worked for when I left MS back in February. Also, it is a project for MS so it is nice to be back!

We had a wonderful summer in Seattle this year. Lots of sunshine so it was a perfect time to be off work. I can't remember the last time I had any time off in the summer much less than the whole summer!! :)

I'm getting ready to celebrate my birthday. 40! I can't believe it - how depressing. Although my new staff was shocked to find out how old I was - they thought I was much younger so at least I don't look 40. To celebrate I'm going to take a group of friends up to my favorite hotel in Vancouver BC for the weekend. The fun part is most of them have birthdays in October too so it really ends up being one big birthday party - although I'm the one who pays for it LOL. But at least I don't have to worry about any other kind of b-day presents!

Work on the house has been moving along slowly. I think the last time I blogged I was in the process of having the whole outside of the house redone. That is finally done and now I'm onto the painting part. I'm painting part of it myself and I'll have to hire painters to paint the rest because the house is pretty tall in some parts and I'll only go so far up a ladder. I've got to get my butt in gear though. We may have had a great summer, but the Fall rains are stating in so I don't have a lot of time to get that done!!

I hope everyone is doing well. Drop a line and let me know how you are. Would love to get caught up with all the friends I've met through here!

Paul

Talking about 2007 Microsoft Office System Beta 2

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 02:56:56 GMT

The Microsoft Office 2007 Beta 2 is now available for download! I've downloaded it and love a lot of the new features and look. Of course it takes a little time to get used to new layouts of new versions of any software.

Even though it is only Beta 2, I've found it to be very stable and reliable. If you like to work with the latest stuff I'd recommend getting it.

You have the choice of having a CD sent or downloadng. If you choose the option of downloading keep in mind you are downloading COMPLETE software packages so they are pretty big downloads...and you can choose between many different applications that are either part of Office 2007 or are releaseing with it.

Here is the link to the beta 2 site:

2007 Microsoft Office System Beta 2

Returned from Vancouver

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 01:40:08 GMT

I retuned from Vancouver yesterday. What amazing weather they had up there. And of course I forgot my camera to capture the snow capped mountians in the dazling sunshine :(

There is major construction going on my house right now. The whole exterior is being torn off and being rebuilt. It is amazing how loud and noise that is. It was a great break to be away from all the costruction for a few days. There are still 3-4 weeks left on the job but it will be well worth it.

On top of that I am demolishing the master bath so I can remodle that room too (yes gay boys can be butch and do construtcon too heheheheheehehehhehe).

I''m still taking my time to look for a new job. After all the constant long long long days working for several years it is nice to work around here when I feel like itl.

Well just a quick update....now backing to ripping more stull our of the bath romm!

Hope everyone has had a great day!!!

Paul

PS....where HAVE all the cute Spaces guys gone these days!!!!!! LOL :) :) :)

Starting to Blog Again

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 04:19:46 GMT

It has been forever since I had a chance to do any blogging. Well I'm going to start changing that now!! I miss the blog world.

I'm up in Vancouver this weekend for one of my usual weekend trips......great weather up here today...sunny and not too cold. Better than when I left Seattle this morning......RAIN :)

Well more to come soon!!!

Paul

Big Change - No Work

Thu, 09 Feb 2006 03:55:41 GMT

Well over the course of the past few months I've been evaluating my life and made a huge decision. I decided to leave Microsoft. Today was my last day. After 6 years I decided I wanted a little more of a life outside work. Plus I wasn't in one of the most positive environments of the company. Don't take that wrong. MS is a great company. It is just where I was wasn't the positive setting that fits my personality.

So now it is time to take a break from work for a bit and then see what new adventures await me. It will be a really strange transition from almost having to think about work all the time, to being able to have more time to do things that I want to do besides work. Plus I'll be in a more positive surrounding and that is something to look foward to.

It is alwasy a big transition to change jobs, but I like new challenges so that will be a good thing.

And hey....I might actually get time to blog regularly again!!!

So here is to embarking on a new path. It will be interesting to see where life's path takes me!!

Talking about Love makes ‘Brokeback’ Oscar favorite - Academy Awards - MSNBC.com

Tue, 31 Jan 2006 01:57:16 GMT

Quote

Love makes ‘Brokeback’ Oscar favorite - Academy Awards - MSNBC.com

Funny....I haven't seen the movie yet. I should get my butt out there and see it. I've not heard a bad thing about it yet from anyone.

Paul

Back to Work

Sat, 31 Dec 2005 03:28:21 GMT

I think I wrote a wile back that I was taking some time off work (3 months) to rest. Well I started back to work on Wednesday. I should have seen if I could have extended it to after the first of the year. Almost every takes this week off and it was so quite around the office that is was very strange. The good part is it let me get caught up a bit without interputions, but I thrive on the energy when everyone is working and running around and find it hard to be productive when I am 1 of just a few people on the floor. But oh well. It was nice to be back to work. I did miss it. Now I am off until Tuesday because of the New Years holiday.

So what do people have planed for celebrating? I wasn going to go to Vancouver and celebrate, but I have a new tenant moving in this weekend (people who have read before know that I have an apartment in my house) and I felt it would be good to be here to help him get settled since there are some unique things about the apartment. I'm lucky it is someone I worked with at Microsoft a few years ago so I have known him for some time and that makes it nice to have a friend there instead of a stranger. So now I'll have to see what I do for New Years - it isn't unusual that I decide what to do at the very last minute so that is ok.

Christmas was great. I got to spend time with a lot of people that I care about a lot. I even got a very nice email from my ex-boyfriend....kind of strange....but still nice. I do have to admit I am kind of glad the holidays are almost over - there is alway so much to do.

Many of your know that I am remodeling my house so the next project to start in the next couple weeks will be the master bathroom. It is going to take a long time.....good thing I have a 2nd bath!! :) Just have to find the time!!!

Well just wanted to catch up. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and a wonderful new year!!!!!

Hope All Had a Merry Christmas

Tue, 27 Dec 2005 05:05:29 GMT

Merry Christmas Every One - and Happy Hanukkah to all the Jewish visitors!

I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday seasion regardless of what you do or do not celebrate. This has been a great season for me!

I've uploaded just a couple photos from Christmas. There are 2 of me. One of my best friend Scott, and one of his partner Matt. The feather boas are joke gifts from me to them. Each year we have a tradition of exchanging traditional gifts, but then we also do Christmas stockings for each other full of joke items. Those were just one of them for both.

Whishing everyone a wonderful New Year!!!!

Paul

Off in Vancouver

Wed, 21 Dec 2005 03:13:39 GMT

Well yesterday I decided at the last minute to take a drive up to Vancouver so here I am for the next couple of days. I ended up in a really cool room and one that has somewhat of a view of the city. The weather right now is awful - rain of course! But I took a few photos of the city today and tonight and uploaded them.

Hopefully I'll get some more of other areas if the weather improves!

UPDATE: I added some photos of the holiday loby decorations. They did a very nice job!!!

What Kind of Candy Are You?

Sat, 17 Dec 2005 12:03:50 GMT

According to THIS website... what kind of candy are you?

What Kind of Puppy are you?

Sat, 17 Dec 2005 02:57:30 GMT

According to THIS website... what type of puppy are you?

Post Preview

You Are a Golden Retriever Puppy

Tolerant, fun-loving, and patient.
You are eager to please - and attached to your frisbee.

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

[ December 16, 2005: Message edited by: MadeInSeattle ]

--------------------
Attacking others does nothing but demean yourself.

Close This Window

What does your name mean?

Wed, 14 Dec 2005 21:54:09 GMT

Visit this site and find out what your name means:

What Does Your Name Mean

Paul:

PAUL
P	is for	Playful
A	is for	Alluring
U	is for	Unusual
L	is for	Liberal

Voice over IP

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 23:48:31 GMT

So I've been thinking about doing Voice over IP (VoIP)...like Vonage. Does anyone have this type of service (or had). What do you/did you think of it? Is the sound quality good? Is there delay? A lot of down time? Stuff like that.

Any info anyone has on this would be greatly appreciated!!!

Paul!

No Vancouver :(

Thu, 08 Dec 2005 21:08:12 GMT

Well Vancouver is going to have to wait. I fell and tore something in my shoulder and it will take a couple of weeks to heal. Its too long of a drive to do it all 1 handed, plus just bouncing around in the car hurts. Hopefully in a week or so I can go up. Of course while I should be up there now it is sunny....just my luck!! :)

Aw well....there is always time!

Heading to Vancouver Again

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 04:24:16 GMT

Heading up toVancouver next Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat. Looking forward to it. Those who come around here regularly know that I love visiting the city!!! Now just need to meet a gorgeous guy up there :) :) wouldn't mind having a boyfriend up there....or here for that matter. But Vancouver guys are soooooooo cute!!! Don't know why - must be the French influence. <<<sigh>>> :)

I'll see what kind of winter photos I can get. Hopefully it will snow - those would make some great pics!!!

Christmas is Almost Here

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 04:01:05 GMT

I realize that everyone knows this, but CHRISTMAS IS ALMOST HERE!!!!!! How did that happen so fast? I have no shopping done...although I swear I bought some things this summer, but I can't find them!! :)

Christmas is one of the strangest times of year. Everyone is supposed to be full of "Christmas cheer" but most people are stressed out, depressed, frustrated or worried about money or if they got the right presents for people.

I wish we could all get over that and take the Christmas cheer part and make it universal and have everyone feeling joy and enjoying the season (BTW I am using the word Christmas, but I am thinking about all of the holidays that fall around this time of year) caring about others, and just in general being happy. Probably another one of those dreams that I have that won't come true, but it is nice to think about.

So what do you do for what ever holiday you celebrate this time of year? Would love to hear from people around the world and different traditions!

Paul

Happy Thanksgiving

Thu, 24 Nov 2005 20:47:51 GMT

Wishing those in the US a Happy Thanksgiving. Today is a day not just for eating, but for reflecting on our lives and finding those things, no matter how small, that we are thankful for. In every life there is value, and on this day of all days, no matter how bad things may seem, or how great things may seem, take some time to find those things within you that truly are valuable.

To my friends outside of the US who either do not celebrate Thanksgiving, or celebrate on a different day, the same words apply to you.

I wish everyone peace, happyness, and true joy each and everyday.

Fondly,

Paul

Nate Berkus' Design Book - Affordable Style for Anyone

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 23:46:39 GMT

I LOVE this book...and his line of products that are available excluively at Linen N Things. He makes decorating easy and affordable. Nate's book Home Rules : Transform the Place You Live into a Place You'll Love is easily available through Amazon.com. Here is a description of the book.

Nate Berkus, renowned decorator, has created a book inspired by his belief that everyone should love the way they live. This step-by-step guide to achieving your own beautiful rooms is based on Nate's signature style and innovative approach to design. As a small boy, Nate could often be found rearranging his room (as well as helping his mother and the other neighborhood mothers rearrange theirs). Throughout the years his passion continued to grow, and soon Nate was heading his own award-winning firm with an elite roster of clients. But it was Oprah Winfrey who gave Nate the chance of a lifetime-the opportunity to go into millions of homes around the world and join her mission to help people live their best lives. It has been a dream come true that has absolutely changed my life,+ explains Berkus. -Not only has working with Oprah helped me redefine my own vision and purpose-but she continues to challenge me to use my own life to help others live better. And there is nothing that makes me happier or more grateful than to be a part of that.+ As Oprah always says, -your home should be a reflection of who you truly are. Nate says, no matter how much money you have, he believes that is so very true. I am honored to share my love of design to help everyone make that dream real for themselves with this book.

I have started to incorporate items from his line in my home and could not be happier with the effect as well as the price.

I recommend everyone to check out the book and the products. I think you will be impressed!

No Selling of the House

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 04:17:22 GMT

I knew it was too good to be true. It looks like the house isn't going to sell. Haven't been able to get a hold of the buyer. Funny thing is that he faxed a completely signed contract - that is how he made contact - and now won't return calls or email even though we are fine with all of the conditions he offered in the contract. Just strange.

Oh well - I had kind of mixed emotions about selling. While it would be nice to get the price I want for the house without have to finishe the remodel, and it is an investment house, I am kind of attached to it. Which is really strange for me because I love to move to a new place....I just hate unpacking. :)

Hope everyone is well!!!!!

Paul

Xbox 360 Coming Soon!!

Tue, 15 Nov 2005 03:12:11 GMT

Well it is just about here. The new Xbox.....Xbox 360. Just some of the features are 13 Xbox accessories, including faceplates that can be tacked on to the front of a console to personalize it. Other accessories, like a wireless controller and a 20-gigabyte hard drive, come standard.

If you are a Halo fan, Halo and Halo 2 for the current Xbox will play on the 360!!!

The North America release is slated for next week (November 22) with a December 2 launch in Europe and a Dec. 10 launch in Japan.

This is a system that isn't to be missed!! I know it is on my Christmas list! :)

Please note that anything that mentions Microsoft or its products are my personal opinions and do not reflect in any way those of my employer.

Selling My House??????

Sat, 12 Nov 2005 00:34:00 GMT

Well a big shock came to me today. I may be selling my house!!! I doubt it will go through, but it would be great if it did. Some (I've never heard or) sent a purchase contract for the purchase price of what I want when I have finished remodeling the house. But the best part is they way the house "as is" for that price. Meaning I get the price I want and don't have to put in any more money or effort.

It sounds too good to be true, but sent off the signed contract and we'll see what happens. I should wouldn't mind not having to do the rest of the work on the house!!!

Then would come the task of looking for a new place. But I wouldn't have to move until February so that gives me some time. I kind of have in mind what I was, but I think it is too expensive. As well.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!!

Paul

Seattle & Rain

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 14:43:37 GMT

Ok....so everyone know that Seattle gets rain. However, the past few years it isn't been the case. We have has the most amazing weather. However, we are makingit up this fall. Rain Rain Rain. Even to the point of a native Seattite is sick of it. And go figure when I am off work. Where the hell is the sun!!! Cross your fingers that it is short lived and the sun comes out....even if it is cold. I would totally enjoy romping around outside.

Hiope you all are well!!

Paul

Me..Back

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 04:50:12 GMT

Hi All......I'm back

Been kind of quiet for a wild. But I am off work until the end of the year so I hopefully will have some time to blog and get caught up with everyone.

Hopefully everyone is doing well and if not, keep in mind that things can only get better!!!

I'll get back to everyone individually soon.

Miss you all!

Paul

Tuesday

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 05:22:18 GMT

I'm really taking the time off work to regroup. It is amazing the smple things that I didn't have time ot do before.

Today's exciting adventure was to go to Linent n Things and see the new Nate Berkus collection. I am amzed that after such a short time of loosing his boyfriend/husband/partner - whatever word you personally use - in the Tsunami and he designed this fabulous line of products and got them on the shelfs.

What strength of character. My hat is off to you Nate.

Nate Berkus

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 01:16:35 GMT

Nate Burkus (yea Opra's designers) has just launched his own line of stunning yet affordable products exclusively through Lines-n-Things.

Check out Nate Berkus' line of products. I now want to redo my whole house!!!

Christopher Columbus Quiz

Mon, 10 Oct 2005 23:34:11 GMT

I thought this was kind of fun for the Columbus Day Holiday!

MSN Encarta - Christopher Columbus Quiz

Leave From Work

Sun, 09 Oct 2005 08:05:38 GMT

So far the leave of absence from work has been strange. My whole schedule is thrown off. Which isn't so bad, but I have worked so many hours and had a ridged schedule for the past 5 years it is throwing me for a loop. I figure in 2 weeks I'll get through this and start to get in to a groove that takes me down the path to getting back to my normal self - with a lot of help!!!

Wonder if anyone I know is up at this time on a Saturday night!! LOL

You know.... I need a nick name on here!!! :)

Fefo

Sat, 08 Oct 2005 10:56:50 GMT

Hey Fefo - been trying to write you, but it locks up. It might be the counter. It seems to be a Java thing and I've uninstalled and reinstalled.

Just want you to know that I'm not ignoring you my friend!!

Paul

It is 3:30 in the morning

Sat, 08 Oct 2005 10:48:37 GMT

It is 3:30 in the morning here!!! And I am awake!!! Not that I have been up all night, but I woked up this early. Usually it has been because of stress from work. But today it feels more like I just got enough sleep. But I'll probably end up falling back asleep in a few hours. But kind of a relief that it isn't due to stress!

So today's agenda is to go get a hair cut, maybe hit the tanning booth (all stuff to make me feel better) and then if it isn't raining attack the yard for Fall cutting back of plants. That good therapy and a good way to work off stress.

So what does everyone have planned for the weekend? Any fun plans?

Paul

Back to Blogging

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 03:17:04 GMT

Hi All

Well I tihink that I will be able to get back to blogging again! I am taking 3 months off of work, so during that time I should be able to write here and get caught up with everyone!

Hope everyone is doning well and I can't wait to catch up with all of the great stuff (and even the not so great) that has been going on in people's lives!

Hugs!

Paul

October Birthdays

Sun, 25 Sep 2005 04:14:10 GMT

So I don't know why this is but all of my "offline" friends have birthdays in October (except 1). So we are all going away for the weekend to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver the weekend of Oct 1st to do a mass celebration.

I'm curious, how many people that regularly (or irregularly) stop by my site have a birthday in October?

I just find it strange....I don't know why....but to me it is odd. No one else I know like from work and such have the same thing with their b-days.

Hope everyone is doing well!!!!

Paul

Bush Takes Partial Responsibility for Katrina

Tue, 13 Sep 2005 23:50:29 GMT

Today Mr. Bush (note that I do not use his honorarium) took partial responsiibility for the devistation and aftermath of Katrina. I say that he is taking partial responsibility becuase he said:

"Katrina exposed serious problems in our response capability at all levels of government," Bush said at joint White House news conference with the president of Iraq.

"To the extent the federal government didn't fully do its job right, I take responsibility."

So he is still spreading it around.

I do not expect any situation like this to come out with everything working perfectly, but there are many things that he should have done in our country that are unrelated directly to Katrina that would have changed the outcome.

Also, as a president who hold the record for taking the most vacation days (365) in the shortest time, I am surprised that he was even aware of Katrina.

And finally, this is his last term in office, he should own up to the fact that he is the leader of this country and as such he should have mobilized every resource possible to aid one of the largest disasters in our history. It isn't like he is can run for re-election.

Oh...and and look at the companies who are getting open (no bid process required) contracts - Haliburton (sp) is one of the major ones - close ties to both his family and Chaney.

Somewhere we have gone so astray here in our goverment that I can't believe it.

Paul

International Response to Katrina

Fri, 02 Sep 2005 20:44:27 GMT

Today, as I was listenting to the news on the way to my vacation weekend, two things came to mind.

First, how fortunate I am that during this holiday weekend I am not trying to put back the pieces of my life, not looking for loved ones who are lost or possibly dead, that I will have a home to return to on Monday. It was a sobering moment that caused me to reflect on all of the things that I sometimes take for granted.

But in the news report on NPR (National Public Broadcasting - a non-profit radio station for those outside the US) I listened to a report that talked about many countries around the world commiting what every kind of aid to those impacted by Katrina.

As an everyday person who lives in a completely different part of the country, I want to say thank you to those countries who have come to the aid of those in need here in the US. Also, I know that there are individuals in those countries, and other countries who are also doing what they can to help. Again, thank you. You help maintain my faith in humanity.

The loss from Karina is so widespread it is almost impossible to grasp. There is the loss of life - we still don't know how many people have died. There is the loss of homes. The loss of industry. The loss of historical landmarks. The loss of wildlife. The loss of people's pets. The loss of burrial remains - in New Orleans people are burried above ground in crypts because the city is below sea level and these crypts have been washed away. There is the loss of culture. The loss of community. The list goes on.

One story I heard yesterday was a report about a gentleman in the area who took his barbaque to a street corner and started to cook all the meat he could get his hand on and anyone could come up and get a hot meal for free no matter who they were. It will be people like this, and others strong of spirit and compassion who will largely impact the rebuilding which is likely to take decades.

Again, my thanks to those around the world who have come to the aid of those in need.

Paul

New Orleans braces for Katrina’s arrival - Hurricane Katrina - MSNBC.com

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 04:09:42 GMT

New Orleans braces for Katrina’s arrival - Hurricane Katrina - MSNBC.com

MSNBC News Services

Updated: 11:59 p.m. ET Aug. 28, 2005

NEW ORLEANS - With a Category 5 hurricane bearing down on his below-sea-level city, Mayor C. Ray Nagin made what pleas he could to his fellow citizens to flee and then left it in the hands of a higher power.
“God bless us,” a grim Nagin said Sunday as Hurricane Katrina’s 160 mph winds swirled on a seemingly irreversible course toward the Big Easy.
Nagin ordered a mandatory evacuation for the city’s 485,000 residents and opened the Superdome as a shelter of last resort, bluntly warning those who stayed that they would be at the mercy of Katrina’s high winds, 28-foot storm surge and 15 inches of rain that threatened to overwhelm the city’s protective levees.

See the link above to the complete story as of 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time from MSNBC

Vancouver Summer 2005 Photos

Sun, 28 Aug 2005 18:46:17 GMT

I FINALLY got a chance to put up some of the photos from my last 2 trips to Vancouver. I love the beach there - they really have a lot of fun up there by the water. And love the festivals - look at the hunk in the beach festival photo with his shirt of hehehehehehe :)

Next set will probably be from the October b-day party I am planning up there Oct 1 - 4.

Paul

MSN Messenger 7.5 Final

Sun, 28 Aug 2005 04:02:18 GMT

Borrowed from my good friend Noroom. If you haven't upgrade you should. A few nice new features. Not sure if you are running 7.5? Open Messenger, choose Help and About and it will tell you the version.

MSN Messenger 7.5 - I can't believe It's Not Beta

The brand new MSN Messenger 7.5 is here. And trust me, it's in your interest to upgrade (or download...whichever way gravity sends you).

"Already!? But Messenger usually only releases once a year!" you may be shouting at your monitor. Well stop. Talking to inanimate objects could get you institutionalized.

It's true. It's just been over four months since our last public release, and there are fewer changes than you may be used to. The thinking is this: we built some features now, you should get to use them--Now. Screw the waiting.

***A mostly comprehensive description of new things in MSN Messenger 7.50299***

The Features

Dynamic Backgrounds:
Backgrounds that subtly animate in cool ways. In the Backgrounds Menu there are four brand new Dynamic Backgrounds and you can buy more from the "What's Hot" link in the drop down. Cool things: 1) you can share any that you own with your friends, 2) some of them respond in interesting ways to receiving a nudge.

Just Some Rambling

Sat, 27 Aug 2005 03:44:07 GMT

Well FINALLY the site that I have been working on non-stop since January launched to internal employees and soon we will launch to customers. I can't believe the day has finally arrived. So have to deal with the major hump of work that will come in as people start to use the site, but then things will move into a normal flow and I can find a life again!!!! Just in time for the holidays too. That will be nice.

So many of you have heard me talk about my ex. I got another email from him talking about how much he misses me, loves me....some old stuff. But he actually opened up a bit more about our past relationship (something new) and talked about how he wants me to meet his "girlfriend" but understands that it may not be a good idea. He said that he has told her some things about us, but not everything because it is too difficult and painful. I'm planning a b-day celebration in Vancouver on October and told him that he is welcome to come. He wan't to come but doesn't know how to tell the "girlfriend" but he'd deal with it.

I've said it before and I'll say it again....men are insane (and yes I include myself in that statement). The biggest thing is that I feel sorry for him because he has had a taste of being really happy, but has all of these conflicts within him about coming to terms with who he really is. I hate to see someone waste thier life like that.

The big thing is that I think he is afraid of what his friends would say. And first, if they can't deal with it, they aren't friends. But they also aren't stupid people. We were together for 1.5 years....the know already. They didn't have a problem with me. Even his mom loves me. So sad to not live your life honestly.

But oh well!!! Boys will be boys....Thank God!!! hehehehehehe

We are having AMAZING weather here in Seattle STILL!!! I hope we end up with a long summer. Or at least it continues through our holiday weekend next weekend since I'll have 4 days off of work and I won't have to work from home either!!!!

Hope all are doing well!!!!!

TTL

Paul

Day 2 in Vancouver

Mon, 22 Aug 2005 02:17:35 GMT

It is amazing. I don't realize how exhausted I am until I come up here. This morning I slept in about 5 hours later that I normally do at home. The day was just perfect temp and sunshine-wise!!! Perfect for wandering around the city which Vancouver was made for!! Then came back to do some work that I was supposed to do over the weekend and totally passed out for a couple more hours of sleep. Well I still have some time tomorrow afternoon to get the work done before I go back to work on Tuesday. More important to have fun and sleep!! :)

I've already book my room here for my birthday in October and the BEST part is I will have NO work to do those days!!! So I'll probably bring a few friends with me and really have fun! I've decided that October 2006 birthday (one of those milestone b-days) I'm going to stay in the most elaborate suite (better start saving now) they have in the hotel, have a buch of friends come up with me, and turn the town upside down! The room I'll be staying in (if I am good about saving money LOL) will be a room that royalty and varrious celebs have stayed in.

Take care all. I'll write more late. If I am lucky next week at work will be a huge milestone and should start to move to having weekends off work!!! I'll get a chance to catch up with every one!! Totally looking forward to that!!

Paul

Day 1 in Vancouver

Sat, 20 Aug 2005 22:39:57 GMT

Well I have arrived. Actually I arrived a few hours ago. This time it was an unique border crossing because I decided that since I am coming up here so often that I would apply for a Nexus pass. This allows me to by-pass the standard border checks and use an express crossing which can save an hour or 2 wait during peak travel times. So once my applicaitons was approved (background check came back ok) and was determined a "low risk recreational traverler" I had to stop at the US/Canada imigration office for a formal interview. All that went well and was issued my pass!!! Now I can plan trips and not have to consider how long it will take to get through the border.

The weather up here is beautiful!! Sunny, warm, but not too warm, and there are TONS of events going on. So this should be a fun trip. What an amazing city. It is one of the best "walk-about" cities I have every seen in the world.

The hotel, The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (by the way, if you have the opportunity to stay at any Fairmont property anywhere in the world DO IT!!! They are amazing at how the treat their guests! They have some astonishing properties all around the world.

So today is a bit of shopping, laying around, eating, catching up with all the hotel gossip and just plain relaxing! Tomorrow will have to work some, but will still get out as it is supposed to be wonderful weather again!

I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. Look for photos from this trip and the last trip soon!!

Paul!!!

Off to Vancouver - Again!!!

Fri, 19 Aug 2005 03:39:49 GMT

Wow I can't believe how littile I get to blog these days!!! Well I am off to Vancouver this weekend again. Hell I still haven't had time to put up photos from the last trip!!! Maybe I'll get some time while I am gone :)

The weather is supposed to be wonderful for the weekend, so I am looking forward to exploring more of the city, sleeping, eating, being a bum, and yes...there will be some work.

Unfortunately my original summary travel plans didn't work out this year, but hey...there is always next year.

Would love to hear people's summer stories as we beginningb to approach Fall (yea still a little ways way....and in the northern hemisphere).

Take care all!!!

Paul

Hi All

Thu, 11 Aug 2005 03:30:24 GMT

Thanks everyone for stopping by and dropping notes. Very much appreciated!!!

Great news....the awful work schedule that has been going on for months should really lighting up in 3-4 weeks!!! I am soooooo looking forward to a bit of a normal life, but I really am looking forward to catching up with everyone to see what their summers were like.

Thanks again for all the good wishes!!

Take good care everyone and enjoy each day! Here in Seattle we enjoy each day that it isn't raining LOL

Hugs!

Paul

Heat

Sun, 31 Jul 2005 05:00:03 GMT

So many places in the US are having major heat waves - and places outside of the US of course are too! So what has the temprtature been like for you lately?

Here in Seattle we have been around 80 degrees F (some where in the low 20s I think for C).

This is unusual for us because normally this time of year we are in the 90s and we had the weather in February while it was still winter here!!

Hope all is well for everyone!!

Paul

Finger Print Reader

Sun, 24 Jul 2005 01:40:19 GMT

Ok...I know I talked about this before but I just have to mention it again. The Microsoft finger print reader is the coolest thing in EVER! All I do is touch it and I am logged into a site. I also have my computer password protected when it launches (too many people in and out of here when I am not here) and just touch it and it puts in my username and password. I LOVE technology!!!

So after a lot of using it here and at work it really does work and I have trieid and tried to crack it....no ay!!!. Amazon carries it and I highly recommend it!!

Have fun and make your computing easy!!!

GET ONE NOW!!!

This posting is made as a private person and not a Microsoft employee :)

London is Under Attack - Again

Thu, 21 Jul 2005 16:42:13 GMT

As many of you know the city of London England is under attack yet again. First and foremost my deepest condolences go out to the victims and their families & loved ones.

London is one of my favorite cities in the world. I have found the people kind, helpful, embracing and all around just good people. To see these attacks completely devastated me.

As with the government, I call on the people of London to be on alert, report unusual activities and report them to the proper athorities.

But most of all, be cautious, but don't let these people stop you from going about your normal lives. Don't let them win. Stand up to them.

To those who are performing these atrocities think about what you are doing and why. You will not win. Free people do not give into terror, they only rally to stamp it out. Why not try a life that you so envy?

And again, to the city of London, and the entire UK, you have my sympathy, my support, and my heart felt love for your way of life.

You will triumph and be safe again!

Paul