Click here for the details... Fans of the show will love the game. I didn't have a lot of background knowledge of Dragonball Z, but the fighting model, characters, story, and environments were definitely intriguing.
Next up is Godzilla: Unleashed. The DS version was slammed at Gameshark. My initial impressions regarding the PS2 version are that it's not THAT bad. It sounds like the game mechanics didn't work well for the DS platform. Maybe the PS2 is a little more fighter-friendly? I don't have a DS, so I can't really compare.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
MotoGP 2007 PS2 Review Published
Click here for the review... Using the simulation riding mode, it reminded me of the challenge of driving in NASCAR. It's hard to keep the bike steady and upright, and serious riders will really enjoy that challenge. It's a great title for MotoGP fans, but for racing fans or casual fans, there are better options. Unless you really love racing those motorcycles, you'll get bored after a little while. For casual driving fans like me, Stuntman: Ignition is a much better fit.
I've got two more reviews completed and submitted to Gameshark - Diamond Mind Baseball Online, and Dragonball Z 3. I'm working on Godzilla Unleashed for the PS2 right now. This might be my last title for the month, which would be nice, so I can actually play my games! Plus, there might be a few Christmas presents to keep me busy over the holidays...
I've got two more reviews completed and submitted to Gameshark - Diamond Mind Baseball Online, and Dragonball Z 3. I'm working on Godzilla Unleashed for the PS2 right now. This might be my last title for the month, which would be nice, so I can actually play my games! Plus, there might be a few Christmas presents to keep me busy over the holidays...
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Thy Name is "Veinity"
Actually it’s “thy name is vanity” but I can’t quite figure out how to do the play on words so that it appears “clever” as opposed to a typo.
I guess you could say I’m a little vain with little veins. It’s true. As for vanity, I won’t leave the house without a little makeup and, nine times out of ten, I spend way too much time on my frustratingly uncooperative hair.
The problem, however, isn’t my vanity but my “veinity.” The size of my veins, at least once a year, causes concern. Let me start at the beginning.
At my new gig (job), you are required to wait 60 days (actually, the 1st o f the month after your 60 days) to receive medical benefits. Fairly important to a single girl who recently lost her job (because she wouldn’t move to another state) and isn’t looking to take on COBRA.
After a meeting with my benefits specialist, I have to take yet another trek to the medical center to get my “wellness exam.” I roll in at 7:10 and I roll out at 8:04. (Apparently my veins “roll” too!) What transpired in between was pure torture - not your typical Monday morning torture either.
First, this place is laden with the degenerates of society, as well as those of us who lost our jobs, found new ones, and need to take a pre-employment drug test, or like me, need a “wellness exam” for benefits.
They have to draw blood. My blood. From my veins! This is no easy feat. It’s always multiple stabs until I bruise or they draw from a vein in my hand leaving a magnificent hue of purple, brown and yellow bruises.
Granted those that know me figure this shouldn’t be a big deal since that day I chose to let a man, who was not a doctor, inject me multiple times with a needle, filled with dye, so that I would have a permanent scar also known as, my tattoo. Forget that. A needle to veins, to draw blood for vials, freaks me out. (Say that ten times fast!) Sad but true.
So, girl nurse #1 decides it’s best to attempt to draw my blood, unsuccessfully, PRIOR to taking my BP. She got one shot. She failed. She’s done. I told her she could try again but she didn’t want to.
Boy nurse comes in. Crabby boy nurse with a shaved head, double pierced ears and well, albino-ish features. He says he’s having a bad day and he thinks I LOOK annoyed. It’s all true, so I immediately go into “nice girl mode.” (AKA Sybil-mode). It’s actually, “fearful girl mode” but hopefully he doesn’t know the difference. I get chatty, and I smile too much. I get confident and brave…it’s like I’m interviewing all over again and then I get the job and they wonder who that girl was they interviewed because it’s NOT THE SAME GIRL. I mean, she looks like the same girl but…I digress.
Boy Nurse gets nicer. Calmer. He ties me up (my arm, tight, trying to find a big fat vein) and tells me to make a fist. I figure I’ll just punch him if he jabs me more than three times. He finds a vein and goes for it. I feel the pinch. I start praying…
I ask him if “we’re good” and he says, “not yet…”
Then there’s silence.
Finally he yells, “We’re good now. DON’T MOVE!” (Like I’m going to?) I ask him very slowly if I can breath. He begs me to do so.
You realize that you go though all these difficult times and losses in your life and you survive them and they make you stronger. Then all it takes is a needle (or a silverfish) to bring you to your knees. Silly fears.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is afraid of spiders. THE ROCK! We all have our secret fears and phobias…
And this will (eventually) lead to another blog.
What do you fear?
I guess you could say I’m a little vain with little veins. It’s true. As for vanity, I won’t leave the house without a little makeup and, nine times out of ten, I spend way too much time on my frustratingly uncooperative hair.
The problem, however, isn’t my vanity but my “veinity.” The size of my veins, at least once a year, causes concern. Let me start at the beginning.
At my new gig (job), you are required to wait 60 days (actually, the 1st o f the month after your 60 days) to receive medical benefits. Fairly important to a single girl who recently lost her job (because she wouldn’t move to another state) and isn’t looking to take on COBRA.
After a meeting with my benefits specialist, I have to take yet another trek to the medical center to get my “wellness exam.” I roll in at 7:10 and I roll out at 8:04. (Apparently my veins “roll” too!) What transpired in between was pure torture - not your typical Monday morning torture either.
First, this place is laden with the degenerates of society, as well as those of us who lost our jobs, found new ones, and need to take a pre-employment drug test, or like me, need a “wellness exam” for benefits.
They have to draw blood. My blood. From my veins! This is no easy feat. It’s always multiple stabs until I bruise or they draw from a vein in my hand leaving a magnificent hue of purple, brown and yellow bruises.
Granted those that know me figure this shouldn’t be a big deal since that day I chose to let a man, who was not a doctor, inject me multiple times with a needle, filled with dye, so that I would have a permanent scar also known as, my tattoo. Forget that. A needle to veins, to draw blood for vials, freaks me out. (Say that ten times fast!) Sad but true.
So, girl nurse #1 decides it’s best to attempt to draw my blood, unsuccessfully, PRIOR to taking my BP. She got one shot. She failed. She’s done. I told her she could try again but she didn’t want to.
Boy nurse comes in. Crabby boy nurse with a shaved head, double pierced ears and well, albino-ish features. He says he’s having a bad day and he thinks I LOOK annoyed. It’s all true, so I immediately go into “nice girl mode.” (AKA Sybil-mode). It’s actually, “fearful girl mode” but hopefully he doesn’t know the difference. I get chatty, and I smile too much. I get confident and brave…it’s like I’m interviewing all over again and then I get the job and they wonder who that girl was they interviewed because it’s NOT THE SAME GIRL. I mean, she looks like the same girl but…I digress.
Boy Nurse gets nicer. Calmer. He ties me up (my arm, tight, trying to find a big fat vein) and tells me to make a fist. I figure I’ll just punch him if he jabs me more than three times. He finds a vein and goes for it. I feel the pinch. I start praying…
I ask him if “we’re good” and he says, “not yet…”
Then there’s silence.
Finally he yells, “We’re good now. DON’T MOVE!” (Like I’m going to?) I ask him very slowly if I can breath. He begs me to do so.
You realize that you go though all these difficult times and losses in your life and you survive them and they make you stronger. Then all it takes is a needle (or a silverfish) to bring you to your knees. Silly fears.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is afraid of spiders. THE ROCK! We all have our secret fears and phobias…
And this will (eventually) lead to another blog.
What do you fear?
Friday, November 30, 2007
A Reviewer's Life
Okay, maybe this reviewer thing isn't all it's cracked up to be… Right now, I'm in the middle of reviewing a string of games that really don't interest me much at all. First, it was MotoGP 2007, which is a fine game if you're a fan of the MotoGP circuit, which I'm not. Now, it's Dragonball Z 3, of which I'm vaguely familiar, but by no means knowledgeable about the context of the series. Next up is Godzilla Unleashed; at least I'm a Godzilla fan. All of these are PS2, which means I'm getting hardly any time with my 360.
Part of it is the fact that I have still have a working PS2, and I'm willing to take whatever games I can get for review. I need to build the resume, and the extra money is nice. If I tried to hold out for the triple "A" titles, I would probably get about two assignments per year! There are just better, more experienced, and more proven reviewers on the staff. Beggars can't be choosers, I guess.
Also, I feel like I'm in a bit of a rut. My reviews feel formulaic. Insert comment A into section B about graphics. Ugh. I want to improve my writing - I want to transcend the "average" review, and write something profound and of value. I'm not having much luck doing that, especially with these games that invoke almost no passion from me. Part of me wants to "retire." It's been almost a year, and I've enjoyed the ride. But, a bigger part of me wants to see it through. I want to see where it will take me. I want to grow, improve, and challenge myself to do better than I thought I could. I don't want to back off of the commitment, which I've seemingly done so many times in the past when it comes to writing and the video game hobby.
What to do, what to do...
Part of it is the fact that I have still have a working PS2, and I'm willing to take whatever games I can get for review. I need to build the resume, and the extra money is nice. If I tried to hold out for the triple "A" titles, I would probably get about two assignments per year! There are just better, more experienced, and more proven reviewers on the staff. Beggars can't be choosers, I guess.
Also, I feel like I'm in a bit of a rut. My reviews feel formulaic. Insert comment A into section B about graphics. Ugh. I want to improve my writing - I want to transcend the "average" review, and write something profound and of value. I'm not having much luck doing that, especially with these games that invoke almost no passion from me. Part of me wants to "retire." It's been almost a year, and I've enjoyed the ride. But, a bigger part of me wants to see it through. I want to see where it will take me. I want to grow, improve, and challenge myself to do better than I thought I could. I don't want to back off of the commitment, which I've seemingly done so many times in the past when it comes to writing and the video game hobby.
What to do, what to do...
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Who Hired Sybil?
(Think actress Sally Field’s portrayal of multiple personality stricken Sybil Dorset.)
Let’s face it, we all play many roles in our lives but recently I played the role of an unemployed chick. Honestly, and I’ve said it before, what happened with my prior employer left me a little jaded, skeptical, uneasy. A definite kick in the ‘gut’ that left a sickening feeling that just seemed to linger.
Now you certainly can’t portray any of those feelings in an interview and, trust me on this, I did not portray any of those feelings. In fact, you probably would NOT have recognized me at all. I was charismatic, astute, relaxed, yet showed great interest in (nearly) every interview. I had all the right answers (most of the time), I always came back for “seconds” (great for an interview… not so great when it comes to food) and I had plenty of experiences to draw upon. Not one question hung me up. I even, at one time, was a little, smug. (I’m not proud of that…I’m just being honest.)
That “smug girl” was getting on my nerves so I (finally) decided which job to focus on…go for…see if they were worthy… whatever. (I know, I know…still a bit jaded, or maybe you thought smug. I was going for jaded.)
I’m used to working with people who like me for being, well, ME - a “straight shooter” and “not sugar coating.” That’s who I am.
Sometimes I think the people that interviewed me wonder what happened to that bright, positive, upbeat woman they interviewed. They still remember her. She was the little over-achieving go-getter who started the interview herself and promptly ended it when they refused to discuss vacation. Yet, they called her back for “seconds" and ultimately hired her (uhm, me)!
Don’t’ get me wrong, I do my job and I do it well. I came in after someone who did the best they could but it wasn’t what this employer was looking for. Still, I’m not the excited girl they interviewed. I’m not easily excited about anything having to do with work – especially at a new job. (Although I tend to perk up with monetary incentives!) I’m still learning the ropes and how to maneuver them. I’m in a bit of “culture shock” when you compare my current employer to my former one.
I'm also holding my own.
One day, after a joint effort of problem solving and designing a new procedure, my boss commented to me, “you don’t seem very excited about it.” It was probably right about then that the answer to “Who hired Sybil?” hit him with full force…
… I hired “Sybil!”
Let’s face it, we all play many roles in our lives but recently I played the role of an unemployed chick. Honestly, and I’ve said it before, what happened with my prior employer left me a little jaded, skeptical, uneasy. A definite kick in the ‘gut’ that left a sickening feeling that just seemed to linger.
Now you certainly can’t portray any of those feelings in an interview and, trust me on this, I did not portray any of those feelings. In fact, you probably would NOT have recognized me at all. I was charismatic, astute, relaxed, yet showed great interest in (nearly) every interview. I had all the right answers (most of the time), I always came back for “seconds” (great for an interview… not so great when it comes to food) and I had plenty of experiences to draw upon. Not one question hung me up. I even, at one time, was a little, smug. (I’m not proud of that…I’m just being honest.)
That “smug girl” was getting on my nerves so I (finally) decided which job to focus on…go for…see if they were worthy… whatever. (I know, I know…still a bit jaded, or maybe you thought smug. I was going for jaded.)
I’m used to working with people who like me for being, well, ME - a “straight shooter” and “not sugar coating.” That’s who I am.
Sometimes I think the people that interviewed me wonder what happened to that bright, positive, upbeat woman they interviewed. They still remember her. She was the little over-achieving go-getter who started the interview herself and promptly ended it when they refused to discuss vacation. Yet, they called her back for “seconds" and ultimately hired her (uhm, me)!
Don’t’ get me wrong, I do my job and I do it well. I came in after someone who did the best they could but it wasn’t what this employer was looking for. Still, I’m not the excited girl they interviewed. I’m not easily excited about anything having to do with work – especially at a new job. (Although I tend to perk up with monetary incentives!) I’m still learning the ropes and how to maneuver them. I’m in a bit of “culture shock” when you compare my current employer to my former one.
I'm also holding my own.
One day, after a joint effort of problem solving and designing a new procedure, my boss commented to me, “you don’t seem very excited about it.” It was probably right about then that the answer to “Who hired Sybil?” hit him with full force…
… I hired “Sybil!”
Monday, November 12, 2007
A Reviewing Machine
My Thrillville review was just posted. I also just turned in my review of Diamond Mind Baseball Online, and I currently have Moto GP for the PS2 in the works. I also found out that I'll be getting the Dragonball Z game for the PS2 to review, plus America's Army for the 360 at some point.
Man, since soccer has ended, I've been busier than ever reviewing games. I'm enjoying it though, and the extra cash will come in handy at Christmas. Plus, hopefully, I'll get to review some games for the Wii next year! These machines are paying for themselves, LOL. I also have a pretty good supplemental income to purchase games that I want, especially counting the dogs that I review that I can turn in for credit at the store.
So far, I'm enjoying this gig a lot... My only complaint is that with my limited time, I don't get to play the games I WANT to play as much. However, I'm trying games that I normally wouldn't play, so I guess it's kind of a wash.
Man, since soccer has ended, I've been busier than ever reviewing games. I'm enjoying it though, and the extra cash will come in handy at Christmas. Plus, hopefully, I'll get to review some games for the Wii next year! These machines are paying for themselves, LOL. I also have a pretty good supplemental income to purchase games that I want, especially counting the dogs that I review that I can turn in for credit at the store.
So far, I'm enjoying this gig a lot... My only complaint is that with my limited time, I don't get to play the games I WANT to play as much. However, I'm trying games that I normally wouldn't play, so I guess it's kind of a wash.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Update
I just finished my Thrillville review. It's a very good game... for pre-teens. "Mature" gamers can have some family-type fun out of it, but would be better served by playing the Roller Coaster Tycoon series.
I just got Moto GP for the PS2 to review. I have about a week to get that done. Soccer's over, but now I have more reviews this month than I've ever had (counting DMB online and America's Army, which I assume is coming this month). That's okay, though. The extra cash will come in handy next month!
The new job is going great! My team has been excellent to work with. And, I'm really enjoying getting back into systems. I've already solved a few Access problems, and it's very rewarding. Honestly, it's the problem-solving aspect that draws me to pseudo-programming and gaming, I believe. I'm getting the hang of the network stuff, too, although it's pretty convoluted. Overall, though, I'm really happy with the move.
The past couple of days, the kids and I have had some fun playing Dance Dance Revolution. I might get another DDR title for Christmas, for some fresh tunes. Also, the Wii came in yesterday. I just had to open the shipping box and look at it, since I've never seen one - even in the store! We got Mario Party, Paper Mario, and Wii Play to go along with it. I know we'll be having a blast Christmas morning...
I just got Moto GP for the PS2 to review. I have about a week to get that done. Soccer's over, but now I have more reviews this month than I've ever had (counting DMB online and America's Army, which I assume is coming this month). That's okay, though. The extra cash will come in handy next month!
The new job is going great! My team has been excellent to work with. And, I'm really enjoying getting back into systems. I've already solved a few Access problems, and it's very rewarding. Honestly, it's the problem-solving aspect that draws me to pseudo-programming and gaming, I believe. I'm getting the hang of the network stuff, too, although it's pretty convoluted. Overall, though, I'm really happy with the move.
The past couple of days, the kids and I have had some fun playing Dance Dance Revolution. I might get another DDR title for Christmas, for some fresh tunes. Also, the Wii came in yesterday. I just had to open the shipping box and look at it, since I've never seen one - even in the store! We got Mario Party, Paper Mario, and Wii Play to go along with it. I know we'll be having a blast Christmas morning...
Monday, October 29, 2007
Glamorous Life
Reviewing video games for pay isn't always as glamorous as it seems. Recently, I was stuck with reviewing NBA 08 The Life v3 for the PS2. The review is here. Trust me, it's no fun trudging through trash like that, even if I got the game for free and a small check for doing it. Next up is Thrillville: Off the Rails. The kids and I both had fun with the original Thrillville for the Xbox, so I'm looking forward to this one.
America's Army should be coming in November, and I'm also in the throws of getting my butt kicked in the Diamond Mind Online baseball league. I'm having fun, though...
The boys had a tough soccer tournament this weekend. Since we won our division, we had to play up a division in the tournament. The boys were bigger, faster, and more skillful than teams in our league, but we competed well. Unfortunately, we didn't win any (we tied one 4-4, and lost the others 3-1 and 3-2, respectively), but the boys showed they belonged. We outplayed all three teams, but just couldn't finish (except for the first game, where they lobbed in a goal with 3 seconds left to tie it). Oh well, it was a great year, and we should be moving up a division next season. The best part is that the boys really do like each other and get along, and they play as a team. There are no "superstars" out there; everyone contributes to the cause.
We get a little break through Thanksgiving, and then Darrin starts Upward basketball, followed by indoor soccer in January. I wouldn't know what to do with myself if I wasn't running the kids everywhere! I love every minute of it, though...
America's Army should be coming in November, and I'm also in the throws of getting my butt kicked in the Diamond Mind Online baseball league. I'm having fun, though...
The boys had a tough soccer tournament this weekend. Since we won our division, we had to play up a division in the tournament. The boys were bigger, faster, and more skillful than teams in our league, but we competed well. Unfortunately, we didn't win any (we tied one 4-4, and lost the others 3-1 and 3-2, respectively), but the boys showed they belonged. We outplayed all three teams, but just couldn't finish (except for the first game, where they lobbed in a goal with 3 seconds left to tie it). Oh well, it was a great year, and we should be moving up a division next season. The best part is that the boys really do like each other and get along, and they play as a team. There are no "superstars" out there; everyone contributes to the cause.
We get a little break through Thanksgiving, and then Darrin starts Upward basketball, followed by indoor soccer in January. I wouldn't know what to do with myself if I wasn't running the kids everywhere! I love every minute of it, though...
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Long Day
Once a month, I have to attend a meeting that begins at 7AM. My normal start time is 7:30 AM. The meeting is held at one of our other offices – the one that is closer to my house than my actual office. So, basically starting early is not a big deal.
So there I was. Seated at a table of 8 or 9 people and I was the only “chick.” Again, not a big deal.
What was a big deal was when one of the company’s owner’s sons was giving a hard time to a guy on my team. He, in no uncertain terms, stated I was hired as the administrator of the program so why hasn’t my team member turned over those duties to me thus far?
GULP!
This hit me out of left field. It hit me hard. Inside I was seething. I cannot fix or claim or understand that which I knew nothing about until you slapped me in the face with it. Apparently, everyone at the table knew this was coming except me. Perhaps they were testing me. Perhaps they needed to see if I was capable of handling such directness. I was hoping my Crucial Conversation skills would kick in...anytime now.
In order to turn the focus from my team member to me, my supervisor asked what I thought regarding how things have been going so far. I normally and internally count to 10 before answering a question of this nature but, seeing as I was already up to 110 and, still semi-seething (better than completely seething), I answered, calmly and slowly, from my gut:
“I was under the impression that things were going well. In fact, I would have said, extremely (and better than expected) well. However, this is the first time I’m hearing that there’s a problem so, what exactly am I NOT doing and why is it that I’m just hearing about it now?”
The ‘son’ explained that this was not something he brought up in order to place the focus on me, but rather on my teammate. I can’t say that made me feel any better. Keep in mind that my team and I work in different offices. The “next in command” also spoke up stating there was no way I would know such things but now that it was on the table, I could look into getting it resolved. (Like I don’t have enough to do?) I have walked into numerous issues that need to be resolved. I’ve walked into a mess. You’ve got to dig out before you can dig in. I can do that. One day at a time.
By the end of last week, I had it fairly well resolved and that’s a start.
Couple that with my slap on the wrist from the IT department (I failed to follow proper protocol with my request. I'm sure you're not surprised. It's the difference between getting it done today and getting it done next week). As you can see, I’ve had a stellar week.
All is well though. IT hooked me up with what I needed (though my wrists are still a bit bruised!), I solved a problem for my team (with a little help, a little persistence, and a little nudging), and I made it through yet another week thinking that I just might fit in here someday.
Not today, tomorrow, or anytime soon mind you. But someday. Maybe.
__________________________________________________________
Song I listened to this week that summed it up and got me through:
Reach down your hand in your pocket
Pull out some hope for me
It’s been a long day, long day.
(Artist: Matchbox 20/Song: Long Day/CD: Yourself or Someone Like You)
So there I was. Seated at a table of 8 or 9 people and I was the only “chick.” Again, not a big deal.
What was a big deal was when one of the company’s owner’s sons was giving a hard time to a guy on my team. He, in no uncertain terms, stated I was hired as the administrator of the program so why hasn’t my team member turned over those duties to me thus far?
GULP!
This hit me out of left field. It hit me hard. Inside I was seething. I cannot fix or claim or understand that which I knew nothing about until you slapped me in the face with it. Apparently, everyone at the table knew this was coming except me. Perhaps they were testing me. Perhaps they needed to see if I was capable of handling such directness. I was hoping my Crucial Conversation skills would kick in...anytime now.
In order to turn the focus from my team member to me, my supervisor asked what I thought regarding how things have been going so far. I normally and internally count to 10 before answering a question of this nature but, seeing as I was already up to 110 and, still semi-seething (better than completely seething), I answered, calmly and slowly, from my gut:
“I was under the impression that things were going well. In fact, I would have said, extremely (and better than expected) well. However, this is the first time I’m hearing that there’s a problem so, what exactly am I NOT doing and why is it that I’m just hearing about it now?”
The ‘son’ explained that this was not something he brought up in order to place the focus on me, but rather on my teammate. I can’t say that made me feel any better. Keep in mind that my team and I work in different offices. The “next in command” also spoke up stating there was no way I would know such things but now that it was on the table, I could look into getting it resolved. (Like I don’t have enough to do?) I have walked into numerous issues that need to be resolved. I’ve walked into a mess. You’ve got to dig out before you can dig in. I can do that. One day at a time.
By the end of last week, I had it fairly well resolved and that’s a start.
Couple that with my slap on the wrist from the IT department (I failed to follow proper protocol with my request. I'm sure you're not surprised. It's the difference between getting it done today and getting it done next week). As you can see, I’ve had a stellar week.
All is well though. IT hooked me up with what I needed (though my wrists are still a bit bruised!), I solved a problem for my team (with a little help, a little persistence, and a little nudging), and I made it through yet another week thinking that I just might fit in here someday.
Not today, tomorrow, or anytime soon mind you. But someday. Maybe.
__________________________________________________________
Song I listened to this week that summed it up and got me through:
Reach down your hand in your pocket
Pull out some hope for me
It’s been a long day, long day.
(Artist: Matchbox 20/Song: Long Day/CD: Yourself or Someone Like You)
Monday, October 22, 2007
They Did It!
No, unfortunately, I'm not talking about my Indians making the World Series or my Crew making the playoffs, but I am excited that my son's soccer team finished the season undefeated! They were playing winless Olentangy on Saturday, and built a 4-0 lead (without our best goal scorer, who was out of town). As a reward, the coach flip-flopped the defenders and attackers for the second half, so my son got to play on the left wing. He got a goal! I was proud of him. He broke free on a through-ball for a one-on-one with the goalie. Instead of panicking and firing away blindly, he took his time deaked back to the right, and pushed the shot past the goalie. It was well taken, and our last goal of the game in a 5-0 shutout. Up next is our last tournament. Hopefully, the squad can bring back some well-earned hardware.
I often bemoan about being an Ohio sports fan, but in retrospect, it's been a pretty good year. The Buckeyes got to the national championship game in football and basketball, the Zips hoops team had 26 wins (and were robbed of a post-season birth), the Indians made it all the way to one game before reaching the World Series, and the Cavs got to the NBA Finals. No championships, but many of my teams had stellar years. Even the Browns are 3-3, although that's a bit sweet and sour for me, since I'm not a fan of Savage or Crennel, or many of the players on the squad (Edwards, Quinn, Winslow Jr., Lewis, etc.). "Next year" is looking pretty good for just about all of my teams, so I guess I can't complain… too much…
Right now, I'm working up a review for "NBA 08 the Life v3" for the PS2. It's been laborious, for sure. First of all, there is no franchise-type mode at all. Even in season mode, things like the salary cap don't apply. Consequently, I traded Larry Hughes pretty easily for another similarly-rated point guard, which would never happen in real life due to Hughes' contract. Also, there are no injuries, and after simulating several seasons independently, no team signed a free agent. There's not much meat there for NBA fans…
"The Life" is supposed to be the main attraction in the game, where you assume a role on a team who's on a mission to win one more championship before the coach retires. This story is held together by cut scenes surrounded by mini-games, often not related to each other. Most of the mini-games are the same practice drills you can choose in single player mode! It's incredibly drawn out, and pretty lame, by all accounts.
Lastly, on the floor, it's not too bad of a game. The controls aren't as complex as the other NBA game alternatives, which makes it fairly easy to pick up and play. I like the "shot halo" and the area of the floor that lights up to help you grab rebounds, especially. However, I wouldn't call it a "great" NBA experience. I've seen a few AI leaks, like when the point guard tries to start the offense by passing to the wing before getting to half court, which always results in an easy steal. Most players wouldn't do that at the high school level, let alone in the NBA. That said, I need to give it a few more hours before passing judgment. Maybe there's some value in there somewhere...
I often bemoan about being an Ohio sports fan, but in retrospect, it's been a pretty good year. The Buckeyes got to the national championship game in football and basketball, the Zips hoops team had 26 wins (and were robbed of a post-season birth), the Indians made it all the way to one game before reaching the World Series, and the Cavs got to the NBA Finals. No championships, but many of my teams had stellar years. Even the Browns are 3-3, although that's a bit sweet and sour for me, since I'm not a fan of Savage or Crennel, or many of the players on the squad (Edwards, Quinn, Winslow Jr., Lewis, etc.). "Next year" is looking pretty good for just about all of my teams, so I guess I can't complain… too much…
Right now, I'm working up a review for "NBA 08 the Life v3" for the PS2. It's been laborious, for sure. First of all, there is no franchise-type mode at all. Even in season mode, things like the salary cap don't apply. Consequently, I traded Larry Hughes pretty easily for another similarly-rated point guard, which would never happen in real life due to Hughes' contract. Also, there are no injuries, and after simulating several seasons independently, no team signed a free agent. There's not much meat there for NBA fans…
"The Life" is supposed to be the main attraction in the game, where you assume a role on a team who's on a mission to win one more championship before the coach retires. This story is held together by cut scenes surrounded by mini-games, often not related to each other. Most of the mini-games are the same practice drills you can choose in single player mode! It's incredibly drawn out, and pretty lame, by all accounts.
Lastly, on the floor, it's not too bad of a game. The controls aren't as complex as the other NBA game alternatives, which makes it fairly easy to pick up and play. I like the "shot halo" and the area of the floor that lights up to help you grab rebounds, especially. However, I wouldn't call it a "great" NBA experience. I've seen a few AI leaks, like when the point guard tries to start the offense by passing to the wing before getting to half court, which always results in an easy steal. Most players wouldn't do that at the high school level, let alone in the NBA. That said, I need to give it a few more hours before passing judgment. Maybe there's some value in there somewhere...
Monday, October 15, 2007
Game Over!
My son's soccer team clinched their league tonight! They're 8-0-1, with one game to go. They play the winless, last place team on Saturday with a chance to go undefeated, which is quite an accomplishment! They play great team soccer, and are building a foundation for more successful seasons to come.
Overall, they're 12-2-1 this year. They've gone 2-1 in both tournaments, and haven't brought home any hardware. They have one more chance to win a tournament at the end of October, but they'll likely be moved up a division, which will lessen their chances. Any way you slice it, though, this is a season to be proud of!
On the gaming front, I'm still working on the Diamond Mind online game, which will take a while (it's a 9 week online season; 162 games). I also have NBA 08 "The Life" for the PS2. Unfortunately, there don't appear to be any of the funny commercials that accompanied the first iteration of this series. Hopefully, those old commercials won't be more fun than the game...
Overall, they're 12-2-1 this year. They've gone 2-1 in both tournaments, and haven't brought home any hardware. They have one more chance to win a tournament at the end of October, but they'll likely be moved up a division, which will lessen their chances. Any way you slice it, though, this is a season to be proud of!
On the gaming front, I'm still working on the Diamond Mind online game, which will take a while (it's a 9 week online season; 162 games). I also have NBA 08 "The Life" for the PS2. Unfortunately, there don't appear to be any of the funny commercials that accompanied the first iteration of this series. Hopefully, those old commercials won't be more fun than the game...
Sunday, October 07, 2007
All Goo Things Must Come To An End
And so, after two very full years of touring, the Goo Goo Dolls last stop was none other than Cleveland, Ohio. What a night. Forget there was the long wait in line since tickets were general admission. (And by long wait, I do mean 2+ hours). Forget that there was no A/C while standing in line, nor inside the venue. Forget that I was wearing boots with a fairly thick 3.5-inch heel. Forget that we were hot, it was stifling, the opening act came on 30 minutes late and played at least 4 songs too many (out of 6 total). Not that they were bad mind you, they were just late. We were sweaty to the point of feeling gross. All you could think about was a shower. I was just not in the right mindset to even comment or appreciate the opening act called Verona Grove (from Wisconsin). Their songs definitely fall under the category of “pop.” They tried to infuse a portion of Avril Lavigne’s hit “Girlfriend” into one of their songs, which felt like a plea for applause. They are a 3-man band comprised of twenty-somethings that were thrilled, but out of their league, when it came to opening for the Goo Goo Dolls. I half wonder if they are going to be on the Good Caramel label (Robbie’s record label) since they were the “chosen,” I assume, as the opening act.
This show was a “cancel and reschedule”, so perhaps the Goos just gave Verona Grove a shot. I don’t know how it works but the sentiment was appreciated. Some bands are worth the wait and this one wasn’t. In their defense, I believe there were technical difficulties that they could not have anticipated or fixed so it wasn’t their entire fault. It just didn’t help the evening. They touted their new CD, asked us to visit them on MySpace (“We need friends” declared the lead singer), and met any fans willing in the corridors after their performance. Let’s see if they are willing to do the same if and when they “make it.” The Goo Goo Dolls certainly are. I have my photo to prove it. Verona Grove, later that evening, could be seen “stage left” watching and learning from the Goos. It will be interesting to see how that pans out.
I turned to my friend and said, “Just let me know when you are ready to go.” The Goos hadn’t even hit the stage yet. It was that hot – I was delirious. We were dehydrating faster than we could hydrate ourselves (and we didn’t want to lose our place in the mosh pit.)
And then it happened. Pink Floyd’s ‘You Better Run’ came on. And for those who don’t know, that’s the music they play this tour, right before the GGD take the stage.
Everything went pitch black.
And then there was light.
Light that swirled across your face, down your body and over your head – blinding you and begging you not to turn away because you would miss it. You would miss the Goo Goo Dolls take the stage. And then the heat was different. Much different. A mother walked her daughter away from the stage. Heat exhaustion. Johnny.
We moved closer.
A breeze from nowhere circled momentarily, giving you a chance to cool down and catch your breath before you would lose it all over again, and again, and again.
We sang. We danced. We pushed forward. We smiled. We cheered. We laughed and our faces hurt. Our voices tomorrow would be non-existent. We would not leave until the encore, which included America Girls (Tom Petty), was a distant memory. It was rockin’! Johnny was in a great mood. Robbie, naturally, had more energy than the sum of everyone in the room. It’s like he feeds of our energy and we feed of his – this vicious circle and feeding frenzy. It works. He was crazy that night and we felt it. We got crazy too.
Johnny was in rare form. He could do no wrong. And then he told Mike to sing. Mike, of course, is the drummer. He did a drum solo that would blow us way. It was unfathomable. He’s amazing and doesn’t get half the credit he deserves. And then they played their 1st hit, “NAME”. I’ve quoted partial lyrics in this blog before (“Scars are souvenirs you never lose. The past is never far.”) But Johnny, still feeling silly made Robbie take over lead vocals and later, bid Mike to sing. Just for the record, Mike DOES NOT sing. Johnny told us to chant, so we did. “Mike! Mike! Mike…” Mike was freakin’ out. He didn’t know how to get out of this
Direct from the blog at the Goo Goo Dolls official website:
September 26th, 2007 - NAME
We won’t tell them you sang, Mike. We had a sing along to one of our songs and all three of us took a chance at the mic, not being so odd since Robby does several songs a show anyway, but it was a twist when John handed the mic over to Mike who from behind the drums did his very best William Shatner … thank you Cleveland for a fun show tonight...
And thank you Goo Goo Dolls for a fun, memorable, crazy, lively, unforgettable night!
It was “one of those nights.” Something rare happened and we were part of it.
We felt like we were right in the center of it all. You know that everything depends on the center.
Sure, you can live on the edge but, remember that the most important thing about the center is this:
The center must hold.
_________________________________________________________________
Hold on
Before its too late
Until we leave this behind
Don't fall just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives
(Before Its Too Late/The Goo Goo Dolls/From the Transformers movie)
This show was a “cancel and reschedule”, so perhaps the Goos just gave Verona Grove a shot. I don’t know how it works but the sentiment was appreciated. Some bands are worth the wait and this one wasn’t. In their defense, I believe there were technical difficulties that they could not have anticipated or fixed so it wasn’t their entire fault. It just didn’t help the evening. They touted their new CD, asked us to visit them on MySpace (“We need friends” declared the lead singer), and met any fans willing in the corridors after their performance. Let’s see if they are willing to do the same if and when they “make it.” The Goo Goo Dolls certainly are. I have my photo to prove it. Verona Grove, later that evening, could be seen “stage left” watching and learning from the Goos. It will be interesting to see how that pans out.
I turned to my friend and said, “Just let me know when you are ready to go.” The Goos hadn’t even hit the stage yet. It was that hot – I was delirious. We were dehydrating faster than we could hydrate ourselves (and we didn’t want to lose our place in the mosh pit.)
And then it happened. Pink Floyd’s ‘You Better Run’ came on. And for those who don’t know, that’s the music they play this tour, right before the GGD take the stage.
Everything went pitch black.
And then there was light.
Light that swirled across your face, down your body and over your head – blinding you and begging you not to turn away because you would miss it. You would miss the Goo Goo Dolls take the stage. And then the heat was different. Much different. A mother walked her daughter away from the stage. Heat exhaustion. Johnny.
We moved closer.
A breeze from nowhere circled momentarily, giving you a chance to cool down and catch your breath before you would lose it all over again, and again, and again.
We sang. We danced. We pushed forward. We smiled. We cheered. We laughed and our faces hurt. Our voices tomorrow would be non-existent. We would not leave until the encore, which included America Girls (Tom Petty), was a distant memory. It was rockin’! Johnny was in a great mood. Robbie, naturally, had more energy than the sum of everyone in the room. It’s like he feeds of our energy and we feed of his – this vicious circle and feeding frenzy. It works. He was crazy that night and we felt it. We got crazy too.
Johnny was in rare form. He could do no wrong. And then he told Mike to sing. Mike, of course, is the drummer. He did a drum solo that would blow us way. It was unfathomable. He’s amazing and doesn’t get half the credit he deserves. And then they played their 1st hit, “NAME”. I’ve quoted partial lyrics in this blog before (“Scars are souvenirs you never lose. The past is never far.”) But Johnny, still feeling silly made Robbie take over lead vocals and later, bid Mike to sing. Just for the record, Mike DOES NOT sing. Johnny told us to chant, so we did. “Mike! Mike! Mike…” Mike was freakin’ out. He didn’t know how to get out of this
Direct from the blog at the Goo Goo Dolls official website:
September 26th, 2007 - NAME
We won’t tell them you sang, Mike. We had a sing along to one of our songs and all three of us took a chance at the mic, not being so odd since Robby does several songs a show anyway, but it was a twist when John handed the mic over to Mike who from behind the drums did his very best William Shatner … thank you Cleveland for a fun show tonight...
And thank you Goo Goo Dolls for a fun, memorable, crazy, lively, unforgettable night!
It was “one of those nights.” Something rare happened and we were part of it.
We felt like we were right in the center of it all. You know that everything depends on the center.
Sure, you can live on the edge but, remember that the most important thing about the center is this:
The center must hold.
_________________________________________________________________
Hold on
Before its too late
Until we leave this behind
Don't fall just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives
(Before Its Too Late/The Goo Goo Dolls/From the Transformers movie)
Thursday, October 04, 2007
I thought it only happened in (poorly coded) video games
Last night, in the first playoff game between the Cubs and the Diamondbacks, Lou Piniella made a gaffe usually reserved for second-rate video game managerial AI. The Cubs had two on in the top of the seventh inning in a 1-1 game. Their ace pitcher, Carlos Zambrano, was at the plate. Now, anybody that follows baseball knows that Piniella has two options:
1. Leave Zambrano in to hit, even though the best-hitting pitchers are usually worse that the worst-hitting position player on the bench, so you can get at least one more inning out of him, or
2. Pinch-hit for Zambrano and go for the runs, and hope your bullpen comes through
Lou totally dropped the ball. He allowed Zambrano to hit in the top of the seventh (he struck out), then put him on the bench and brought in a reliever to pitch the bottom of the seventh, who subsequently gave up the go-ahead home run! Any reviewer worth his salt would lambaste a video game for this mistake, yet here's a manager who's got 40 years' experience in the game and a World Series ring making this error!
His excuse was that he didn't want to run up Zambrano's pitch count (it was at 85), so he could save him for game 4, and that he trusts his bullpen. Well, there's some problems with that logic. First of all, if you don't win, there may not be a game four! Secondly, if you trust your bullpen, why did you leave your worst hitter in the lineup out there to hit, knowing you were going to pull him from the game, anyway?! Sorry, Lou, that's weak. And, to top it off, almost none of the talking-head sports anchors mentioned the part about letting Zambrano hit. Boo-yeah, these guys are real experts...
1. Leave Zambrano in to hit, even though the best-hitting pitchers are usually worse that the worst-hitting position player on the bench, so you can get at least one more inning out of him, or
2. Pinch-hit for Zambrano and go for the runs, and hope your bullpen comes through
Lou totally dropped the ball. He allowed Zambrano to hit in the top of the seventh (he struck out), then put him on the bench and brought in a reliever to pitch the bottom of the seventh, who subsequently gave up the go-ahead home run! Any reviewer worth his salt would lambaste a video game for this mistake, yet here's a manager who's got 40 years' experience in the game and a World Series ring making this error!
His excuse was that he didn't want to run up Zambrano's pitch count (it was at 85), so he could save him for game 4, and that he trusts his bullpen. Well, there's some problems with that logic. First of all, if you don't win, there may not be a game four! Secondly, if you trust your bullpen, why did you leave your worst hitter in the lineup out there to hit, knowing you were going to pull him from the game, anyway?! Sorry, Lou, that's weak. And, to top it off, almost none of the talking-head sports anchors mentioned the part about letting Zambrano hit. Boo-yeah, these guys are real experts...
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Stuntman Ignition Review
My review is up at Gameshark. Stuntman Ignition is a great game, and I highly recommend it.
Next in the queue is a review of an online, historical version of baseball season-replay king Diamond Mind Baseball. It looks pretty neat, because there are nearly 4000 players available, from all eras, with normalized statistics and modern-day contracts. You draft your team within a $100 million salary cap (sorry, the Yankees couldn't compete in this league!), and play a 162 game season over 9 weeks. Well, you don't actually play, but you do have the option of watching (or should I say "reading") the play-by-play of each game unfold, or just checking the box scores.
DMB is an excellent product, and highly realistic. I'm looking forward to answering some of those age-old baseball questions about "who's better." FYI - the Babe checks in at a $25 million salary! Yikes!
Next in the queue is a review of an online, historical version of baseball season-replay king Diamond Mind Baseball. It looks pretty neat, because there are nearly 4000 players available, from all eras, with normalized statistics and modern-day contracts. You draft your team within a $100 million salary cap (sorry, the Yankees couldn't compete in this league!), and play a 162 game season over 9 weeks. Well, you don't actually play, but you do have the option of watching (or should I say "reading") the play-by-play of each game unfold, or just checking the box scores.
DMB is an excellent product, and highly realistic. I'm looking forward to answering some of those age-old baseball questions about "who's better." FYI - the Babe checks in at a $25 million salary! Yikes!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
iLove my iPhone
The original wallpaper on the iPhone is a photo of the Earth taken from space. It’s cool. I left it like that for the few weeks I’ve had it. Today, with a little spare time, I changed it to Van Gogh’s Starry Night.
My first “issue” with the iPhone had nothing to do with the phone itself and everything to do with my cable company (TW). Big surprise. Anyway, thanks to David Pogue (author of iPhone The Missing Manual, the problem has been solved.
I was able to receive mail but unable to send it. That’s a big deal. So off to see what Mr. Pogue had to say about that. To be honest, I tried both fix #1 and #2 but neither worked. I ended up using fix #3, which was to use AT&T (official carrier for iPhone) for my outgoing mail. It seems to be working but I won’t know for sure until Monday. If it isn’t, you’ll know by Monday as well.
The other issue I had is I inputted all my contacts but when I synced, I lost them. I haven’t synced since and I know some patches and updates are available. That’s just another cool thing about the iPhone. They tell you NEVER buy the first version because there are bugs and glitches. However, those bugs and glitches are so easy to fix when you just sync your iPhone like you would your iPod. It’s instantaneous. And let’s face it, in a world that demands instant gratification, this is pretty sweet. Hopefully I won’t lose my contacts this time. It’s pretty time consuming to re-enter them and the iPhone doesn’t sync with Outlook contacts. I’ll see what Mr. Pogue has to say about that tomorrow. (If you have a Yahoo, Gmail, .mac or AOL account , you'll be just fine!)
The battery also has to be charged each night if you spend a decent amount of time on- line like I do. Not really a big deal to me though.
Finally for today, you've never seen e-mail on a phone like this. Let me quote David Pogue, "Dude, if you want a more satisfying portable email machine than this one, buy a laptop."
That’s all I’ve had time to comment on so far. Between the new job, school, and life in general, not to mention an over the top Goo Goo Doll concert (future blog to follow), it’s been a little hectic and I haven’t devoted the time the iPhone deserves. It’s been pretty effortless to use and update, and I’m thrilled and proud to own one. I showed it to a less than savvy gadget person who proclaimed, “I must have one.”
I’m surprised I waited as long as I did to purchase mine. I mean, I did get in on the “unprecedented” drop in price, but still…it’s just so cool.
My first “issue” with the iPhone had nothing to do with the phone itself and everything to do with my cable company (TW). Big surprise. Anyway, thanks to David Pogue (author of iPhone The Missing Manual, the problem has been solved.
I was able to receive mail but unable to send it. That’s a big deal. So off to see what Mr. Pogue had to say about that. To be honest, I tried both fix #1 and #2 but neither worked. I ended up using fix #3, which was to use AT&T (official carrier for iPhone) for my outgoing mail. It seems to be working but I won’t know for sure until Monday. If it isn’t, you’ll know by Monday as well.
The other issue I had is I inputted all my contacts but when I synced, I lost them. I haven’t synced since and I know some patches and updates are available. That’s just another cool thing about the iPhone. They tell you NEVER buy the first version because there are bugs and glitches. However, those bugs and glitches are so easy to fix when you just sync your iPhone like you would your iPod. It’s instantaneous. And let’s face it, in a world that demands instant gratification, this is pretty sweet. Hopefully I won’t lose my contacts this time. It’s pretty time consuming to re-enter them and the iPhone doesn’t sync with Outlook contacts. I’ll see what Mr. Pogue has to say about that tomorrow. (If you have a Yahoo, Gmail, .mac or AOL account , you'll be just fine!)
The battery also has to be charged each night if you spend a decent amount of time on- line like I do. Not really a big deal to me though.
Finally for today, you've never seen e-mail on a phone like this. Let me quote David Pogue, "Dude, if you want a more satisfying portable email machine than this one, buy a laptop."
That’s all I’ve had time to comment on so far. Between the new job, school, and life in general, not to mention an over the top Goo Goo Doll concert (future blog to follow), it’s been a little hectic and I haven’t devoted the time the iPhone deserves. It’s been pretty effortless to use and update, and I’m thrilled and proud to own one. I showed it to a less than savvy gadget person who proclaimed, “I must have one.”
I’m surprised I waited as long as I did to purchase mine. I mean, I did get in on the “unprecedented” drop in price, but still…it’s just so cool.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Change is the only constant
That's one of the mantras at my place of employment. At times, I think it might be better said that ambiguity is the only constant, but I don't think they'd take my suggestion.
However, I firmly believe, and have witnessed several times, that change brings opportunity! And, for me, that occurred last week. I'm migrating from a training coordinator position to a systems coordinator position. Training/people development and systems are my two loves, so there really is no way for me to lose. I haven't held a systems job for nearly 3 years at my company, so I'm excited to get back into it. Plus, the systems job is more "stable," which bodes better for my near future. To be fair - I don't want to paint the wrong picture - one thing my company does very well is give folks ample opportunity to find something else within the company when their job is being "transitioned" away. It's not always the best situation, but it's better than the way most companies use the "pink slip." My previous job wasn't up for "transition," but I think it's likely that in the near future changes of that nature could happen.
So, I'll be learning a lot of new things, and re-learning some old things. I am looking forward to it. I did hear through the "grapevine" that some folks aren't too happy about the decision, but that's nothing I haven't had to handle before. There are enough good people in enough right places to get things done, and to make some good relationships along the way. Plus, I'm pretty confident in my own abilities!
Enough about work - it's the weekend!
I submitted my Stuntman - Ignition review earlier in the week (who knows when it will get posted). I gave it an A-; the highest rating I've given an Xbox 360 game yet. Quite frankly, it's definitely the best 360 game I've reviewed so far, and among the best I've played. I'll post a link when it's on Gameshark.
My next project is a review of an online version of Diamond-Mind Baseball. I'm going to start looking into that this weekend. Plus, I might be getting a Sherlock Holmes game to review. I love me a good mystery!
However, I firmly believe, and have witnessed several times, that change brings opportunity! And, for me, that occurred last week. I'm migrating from a training coordinator position to a systems coordinator position. Training/people development and systems are my two loves, so there really is no way for me to lose. I haven't held a systems job for nearly 3 years at my company, so I'm excited to get back into it. Plus, the systems job is more "stable," which bodes better for my near future. To be fair - I don't want to paint the wrong picture - one thing my company does very well is give folks ample opportunity to find something else within the company when their job is being "transitioned" away. It's not always the best situation, but it's better than the way most companies use the "pink slip." My previous job wasn't up for "transition," but I think it's likely that in the near future changes of that nature could happen.
So, I'll be learning a lot of new things, and re-learning some old things. I am looking forward to it. I did hear through the "grapevine" that some folks aren't too happy about the decision, but that's nothing I haven't had to handle before. There are enough good people in enough right places to get things done, and to make some good relationships along the way. Plus, I'm pretty confident in my own abilities!
Enough about work - it's the weekend!
I submitted my Stuntman - Ignition review earlier in the week (who knows when it will get posted). I gave it an A-; the highest rating I've given an Xbox 360 game yet. Quite frankly, it's definitely the best 360 game I've reviewed so far, and among the best I've played. I'll post a link when it's on Gameshark.
My next project is a review of an online version of Diamond-Mind Baseball. I'm going to start looking into that this weekend. Plus, I might be getting a Sherlock Holmes game to review. I love me a good mystery!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Sitting Pretty
It doesn’t happen very often, at least not to me.
Some of my friends have landed jobs that are “overwhelming” or jobs they simply dislike for a myriad of reasons. Some have even been told, “You have very big shoes to fill.” My one friend keeps telling me, “I can’t keep up.”
Well, I can’t imagine having to be the one that follows the “one” - the one that was deemed ‘stellar’. You surely can appreciate how dreadful and dismal this all sounded to me. I didn’t’ have a choice though. Just like them, I had to start over. I was a little perplexed, pre-occupied, and looking for a Plan B.
Me… The chick that has to find a new job and hears all these horror stories.
Me… About to start this new job that I’m not even sure I want.
Me… I know…it’s all about ME!
As it turns out, to my utter dismay and astonishment, I recently learned that numerous candidates applied for this job. That being said, I ended up, so far, and this is only week # 3 mind you, I ended up “sitting pretty.”
Believe me, I am as shocked as you are.
I know most people do the best job they can. I’m sitting pretty right now because anything I do is a vast improvement over my predecessor, who I’m sure did their best. We all know it’s hard to fit in. I struggle too, with my new work environment, new responsibilities, and new politics. I hate being the new person. I just went through this crap in tech school! I lost my comfort zone, my freedom, and my vacation. I have to prove myself all over again. But fate, or faith, or something I cannot discern or name, stepped in.
I am coming in at the perfect time – when digging out and digging in is required, and more than needed; when new procedures and standards need to be formulated and implemented. When new protocols must be established and adhered too. Where dire straits exist and must be eradicated. All I can tell you is that this quagmire exists and could have extremely detrimental effects. I have my hands full.
I’m also sitting in class right now as I hand write this missive in my notebook. It’s been a very long day for me and I need a break…a break to blog.
I wish I were sitting as pretty in class as I am in my new job.
Some of my friends have landed jobs that are “overwhelming” or jobs they simply dislike for a myriad of reasons. Some have even been told, “You have very big shoes to fill.” My one friend keeps telling me, “I can’t keep up.”
Well, I can’t imagine having to be the one that follows the “one” - the one that was deemed ‘stellar’. You surely can appreciate how dreadful and dismal this all sounded to me. I didn’t’ have a choice though. Just like them, I had to start over. I was a little perplexed, pre-occupied, and looking for a Plan B.
Me… The chick that has to find a new job and hears all these horror stories.
Me… About to start this new job that I’m not even sure I want.
Me… I know…it’s all about ME!
As it turns out, to my utter dismay and astonishment, I recently learned that numerous candidates applied for this job. That being said, I ended up, so far, and this is only week # 3 mind you, I ended up “sitting pretty.”
Believe me, I am as shocked as you are.
I know most people do the best job they can. I’m sitting pretty right now because anything I do is a vast improvement over my predecessor, who I’m sure did their best. We all know it’s hard to fit in. I struggle too, with my new work environment, new responsibilities, and new politics. I hate being the new person. I just went through this crap in tech school! I lost my comfort zone, my freedom, and my vacation. I have to prove myself all over again. But fate, or faith, or something I cannot discern or name, stepped in.
I am coming in at the perfect time – when digging out and digging in is required, and more than needed; when new procedures and standards need to be formulated and implemented. When new protocols must be established and adhered too. Where dire straits exist and must be eradicated. All I can tell you is that this quagmire exists and could have extremely detrimental effects. I have my hands full.
I’m also sitting in class right now as I hand write this missive in my notebook. It’s been a very long day for me and I need a break…a break to blog.
I wish I were sitting as pretty in class as I am in my new job.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
iOrdered
Great deal. Done deal.
I ordered my 8GB iPhone last Sunday. I also ordered the protective sleeve that fits over the top because I KNOW there will be plenty of fingerprints otherwise. Oh, and I don’t just mean mine. I’m including all those people who want to handle the coolness of MY iPhone, and physically mess with its on-line capabilities and functionality! It’s just like all those who wanted to play with MY ROOMBA! Well, someone has to be the trailblazer of these gadgets and it might as well be me. A girl could do worse.
My brother has had the iPhone for weeks. He said he logged onto a blog to check out a few things but it was filled with pre-purchasers, like him, harping big time on the major price cut that is, to date, “unprecedented.” He said it’s the price you pay for being the trailblazer of new toys, and the $100 rebate is better than nothing. Still, I’m glad I waited.
My brother still thinks his iPhone is the coolest thing he owns and let me tell you, he owns plenty of cool things. I usually get a few of his “old” toys and they are always in mint condition. I contact him before Best Buy. Seriously! Well, to my good fortune yet again, he accidentally ordered two copies of iPhone: The Missing Manual by David Pogue. He was going to return the extra copy but low and behold, he got e-mail from me with a plethora of iPhone questions. His answers simply solidified what I already knew: It was time for me to own an iPhone. So, he sent me the extra copy instead of returning it. I sent him a check and he ripped it up. I’ll be baking him homemade chocolate chip cookies for that. In all seriousness though, if any of you own an iPhone, this book comes very highly recommended.
According to “Kevin,” my iPhone salesperson (not my blog friend), all I need to do when my phone arrives is plug it in to my PC like I do my iPod. Then I can transfer my existing AT&T phone number to my new phone. Sounds too easy. He said it can take anywhere from two hours to two days for the changeover but hey, I’ve waited this long. It paid off too considering the “unprecedented” price drop. Warning: Be aware that your current monthly bill with increase by $20.
So, let’s recap.
IPhone 8 GB: $399.00
Protective Cover: $ 14.95
Leather Case: $ 34.95
Being the owner of an iPhone…. PRICELESS!
Cool phrase I stumbled upon once again:
Ships are only safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships were built for
I ordered my 8GB iPhone last Sunday. I also ordered the protective sleeve that fits over the top because I KNOW there will be plenty of fingerprints otherwise. Oh, and I don’t just mean mine. I’m including all those people who want to handle the coolness of MY iPhone, and physically mess with its on-line capabilities and functionality! It’s just like all those who wanted to play with MY ROOMBA! Well, someone has to be the trailblazer of these gadgets and it might as well be me. A girl could do worse.
My brother has had the iPhone for weeks. He said he logged onto a blog to check out a few things but it was filled with pre-purchasers, like him, harping big time on the major price cut that is, to date, “unprecedented.” He said it’s the price you pay for being the trailblazer of new toys, and the $100 rebate is better than nothing. Still, I’m glad I waited.
My brother still thinks his iPhone is the coolest thing he owns and let me tell you, he owns plenty of cool things. I usually get a few of his “old” toys and they are always in mint condition. I contact him before Best Buy. Seriously! Well, to my good fortune yet again, he accidentally ordered two copies of iPhone: The Missing Manual by David Pogue. He was going to return the extra copy but low and behold, he got e-mail from me with a plethora of iPhone questions. His answers simply solidified what I already knew: It was time for me to own an iPhone. So, he sent me the extra copy instead of returning it. I sent him a check and he ripped it up. I’ll be baking him homemade chocolate chip cookies for that. In all seriousness though, if any of you own an iPhone, this book comes very highly recommended.
According to “Kevin,” my iPhone salesperson (not my blog friend), all I need to do when my phone arrives is plug it in to my PC like I do my iPod. Then I can transfer my existing AT&T phone number to my new phone. Sounds too easy. He said it can take anywhere from two hours to two days for the changeover but hey, I’ve waited this long. It paid off too considering the “unprecedented” price drop. Warning: Be aware that your current monthly bill with increase by $20.
So, let’s recap.
IPhone 8 GB: $399.00
Protective Cover: $ 14.95
Leather Case: $ 34.95
Being the owner of an iPhone…. PRICELESS!
Cool phrase I stumbled upon once again:
Ships are only safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships were built for
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Do Not Bend
When I walked into my second interview (of my new and current job), I smugly handed over my Microsoft Office Specialist certificate (in Access). I was pretty proud of that certificate. I’m not sure if I mentioned this before, but as excited as I was to receive the certificate, I was equally as disappointed when I realized it wasn’t signed by Bill Gates (though it was signed by two other individuals). I know you are all laughing out there. Trust me, you don’t want to look so smug!
My friends laughed at me. “You think Bill Gates is going to sign certificates?” Even my new boss scoffed at the notion, “Bill Gates? Yeah, right.” And this is why I hate to have high expectations or get too excited about anything because it ends up being a let down. I’m sure you know the old adage that goes something like, don’t get to close - it spoils the illusion. It’s true. It’s happened to many of us, but we try not to lose hope. I just really wanted to see Mr. Gates’ signature. He’s one of the top five people I would like to meet. (Actually, he’s number two).
Well, I just received notice I could get a digital copy of my MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) certificate. I printed it off the site and promptly (still a little smugly) handed it over to my new boss. It felt good. I then signed up for my Microsoft “Welcome” kit, and was told it would be about six weeks.
Imagine my surprise when it came three weeks early! It was packed protectively and marked “DO NOT BEND” in bold red letters. Inside was my official Microsoft Certified Professional card (same size as a credit card) and yes, laugh if you must, a Microsoft Certified Professional pin. Well, it may not have looked right on my denim jacket covered with guitar pins and concert buttons that I wore with pride many years ago, but I will find a proper place for it.
The official certificate itself is what made my mouth drop. The kit comes in a cardboard booklet. The certificate is on the left side while the pin and card reside on the right. There was just something about that certificate that hit my core. Something that made the geek in me beam just a little brighter. Something that put that smug, sly, slow-shaping smile form across my face until my cheeks hurt. Something that made the words “DO NOT BEND” more critically necessary.
The certificate read:
“Microsoft Certificate of Excellence” and my name, followed by, “Has successfully completed the requirements to be recognized as a Microsoft Certified Professional.”
Cool! But it was the very last line that caused the burning and forced me to take a deep breath. The last line was handwritten. Two words…
Bill Gates
My friends laughed at me. “You think Bill Gates is going to sign certificates?” Even my new boss scoffed at the notion, “Bill Gates? Yeah, right.” And this is why I hate to have high expectations or get too excited about anything because it ends up being a let down. I’m sure you know the old adage that goes something like, don’t get to close - it spoils the illusion. It’s true. It’s happened to many of us, but we try not to lose hope. I just really wanted to see Mr. Gates’ signature. He’s one of the top five people I would like to meet. (Actually, he’s number two).
Well, I just received notice I could get a digital copy of my MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) certificate. I printed it off the site and promptly (still a little smugly) handed it over to my new boss. It felt good. I then signed up for my Microsoft “Welcome” kit, and was told it would be about six weeks.
Imagine my surprise when it came three weeks early! It was packed protectively and marked “DO NOT BEND” in bold red letters. Inside was my official Microsoft Certified Professional card (same size as a credit card) and yes, laugh if you must, a Microsoft Certified Professional pin. Well, it may not have looked right on my denim jacket covered with guitar pins and concert buttons that I wore with pride many years ago, but I will find a proper place for it.
The official certificate itself is what made my mouth drop. The kit comes in a cardboard booklet. The certificate is on the left side while the pin and card reside on the right. There was just something about that certificate that hit my core. Something that made the geek in me beam just a little brighter. Something that put that smug, sly, slow-shaping smile form across my face until my cheeks hurt. Something that made the words “DO NOT BEND” more critically necessary.
The certificate read:
“Microsoft Certificate of Excellence” and my name, followed by, “Has successfully completed the requirements to be recognized as a Microsoft Certified Professional.”
Cool! But it was the very last line that caused the burning and forced me to take a deep breath. The last line was handwritten. Two words…
Bill Gates
Friday, September 14, 2007
Driving Me Mad
My NASCAR 08 review has been posted. I'm currently in the process of reviewing Stuntman. Man, from one white-knuckle driving game to another...
I don't have a ton to say about Stuntman yet, but if you like Burnout and Project Gotham Racing, then Stuntman is for you. It's really a combination of both of those games, except instead of causing the mayhem like in Burnout, you get as close to it as you can, but avoid it, in Stuntman. Plus, you try to string driving tricks and stunts together, much like earning Kudos in PGR. I haven't decided if I think it's worth a purchase versus a rental, but driving fans really should give Stuntman a go.
I don't have a ton to say about Stuntman yet, but if you like Burnout and Project Gotham Racing, then Stuntman is for you. It's really a combination of both of those games, except instead of causing the mayhem like in Burnout, you get as close to it as you can, but avoid it, in Stuntman. Plus, you try to string driving tricks and stunts together, much like earning Kudos in PGR. I haven't decided if I think it's worth a purchase versus a rental, but driving fans really should give Stuntman a go.
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