Success at Last

Unbelievably, everything has finally fallen into place. As I type this, I'm sitting in my new living room, in my new house, watching the Red Sox game on my new TiVo-enhanced digital cable system. Unbelievable.

Looking back on my previous posts, it was Monday 3 March when I first saw this house and put an offer on it later that evening. Here I am, 59 days later, settling in. It's freaky.

I won't bore you with the details of the frustration that went along with acquiring my loan. Suffice to say, there were a few things - one in particular - that were nothing short of maddening. That one thing had to do with satisfying the bank's requirement of ensuring that there was no 'structural damage' due to wood-boring insects (in this case, the mighty termite).

The crux of the issue was the bank needed proof that there had been no structural damage, yet they could not tell me, precisely, what form that proof should take. I'll keep it short and sweet and just note that it was all worked out. Albeit, literally, at the last possible moment but it was done.

I have to note that my loan was an FHA (Federal Housing Athourity, I think) backed loan - aka 'the Government'. So, I understand the added insurance they require to prove the house isn't about to crumble to dust. Additionally, it's an advantage to those who don't have alot of capital to put in for a down payment. Which is my situation. So, all in all, it really wasn't too bad. Just a bit of a distraction and point of frustration at some times - but as I sit here now, it's clear it was all well worth it.

Aside from that, I am amazed - pleasantly amazed - at how well everything has gone since the loan was approved.

The closing was scheduled for yesterday (30 April) and I hired a moving company to move me in today (1 May). Both events were executed brilliantly. Props to a friend who works for Gentle Giant Moving for hooking me up with a great experience. The three guys were in my old place at 9:30 a.m. and were finished unloading at my new place by 2:30 p.m. Excellent job. They left me with a customer service survey to fill out which is usually something I unceremoniously toss straight in the bin. This one, I'll be happy to fill out and submit. Now it's up to me to unpack everything and find a place for it all.

Another amazing event occurred when I called Comcast yesterday. Yes, Comcast. I spoke with a service representative, explained when I was moving, and where from, and he set me up with a relocation installation today. They had a local installation availability today between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. Perfect.

So, what happens? No - the technician did not show up at 4:45. He showed at 2:30. Literally as the Giant guys were hopping in the truck ready to pull away. He was here for about an hour and 45 minutes and when he left, my TiVo-DVR-Digital cable, internet, and brand new phone number were all up and running.

And here I am, about five hours later (after a trip back to the apartment, my first - of many, I'm sure - stop at Home Depot, and a well-needed shower), posting this fascinating story for your pleasure.

You don't need to say it; I know you're reading this slack-jawed with awe.

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Outside of all that, the other wild card in the process is Spinny, my cat. She's an ol' vet at 14 (and having moved no less than four times before she was five) but after 9.5 years at the old place, I was curious to see how she'd adjust.

The morning, and afternoon for that matter, were pretty rough. Quarantined in this room or that for periods of time, I could hear her mews of protest, anxiety, and nervousness. So, like females are wont to do in times of anxiety - she ate. I don't think I've ever seen her eat as much - or as often - as she did today.

Alas, she seems content, as she's currently reposing in the armchair across from me taking a late bath.



At first, she was unsure of her surroundings. I know this because her first few spots visited were the corners of closets in various rooms. However, once I returned from my late afternoon errands, she began to explore a bit more. She seems comfortable now - as a wily vet would - and it appears she'll be back to her old self in short order.

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Lastly, there's one glaring issue with my new home. There are no window treatments to speak of anywhere in the house. So, for the time being, I'll have to curtail my nightly ritual of the nude security check. No prancing from room to room, unclad, as I check that everything is in order. At least until I get some window shades.

So there it is. 59 days, start to finish. Unbelievable.

Salute to the Boston Bruins

Alas, their valiant effort ended tonight in Montréal.

There are many things to take away from this amazing first round playoff series. In the end, it's not surprising the Canadiens won the series. What is extremely surprising, and promising, is that the Bruins were able to force the series to a game 7.

After the disappointing showing the Bruins had in the 2006-07 season, no one expected much from this team. They didn't really do much in the offseason to improve their chances going forward. They didn't have much salary cap room to do much. There were no big free agent signings, as with the previous off-season (Marc Savard - C, Zdeno Chara - D).

They did get rid of head coach Dave Lewis and hired Claude Julien. Personally, I liked Dave Lewis - as a person. He was an entertaining personality; he just never gained the respect? trust? something of the team last season. Apparently, coaching matters because Julien was able to do so much more with just about the same roster.

With that said, I think the young players that were here this season - which were not here last season - had a huge impact.

The new fan favorite, myself included, is 19 year old left wing Milan Lucic (#17). The kid is a beast. People are (prematurely, in my mind) referring to him as Neely-like. I think that's alot to expect. However, he is tough as nails with a nose for the puck. General Manager Peter Chiarelli was wise to hold on to him through the trade deadline. He's the type of player that Bruins fans love to watch and I hope he sticks around for many seasons to come.

Another player who had a huge impact this season was center David Krejci (#46). He turns 22 in a week. When Marc Savard went down late in the season with a back injury (courtesy of Les Habitants de Montréal), Krejci stepped up huge and went on a nice scoring run to keep the playoff hopes of the Bruins alive. I like this kid and, once again, I'm glad Chiarelli had the patience not to move him at the deadline just to make a move.

I'll round out the top three young impact players with center Vladimir Sobotka (#60). He'll be 21 in July. He's not afraid to get dirty, go deep into the corners, and - even at only 5' 10", 183 lbs - loves to hit. Keep it up Vladi.

Noting the last two players mentioned, they were here out of necessity after an unbelievably cheap hit by the Philadelphia Flyers's Randy Jones on center Patrice Bergeron (#37) early in the season. The October 27 boarding (which Jones only received a 3-game suspension for) nearly broke Bergeron's neck and left him with a severe concussion that left him sidelined for the remainder of the season. I'm looking forward to Bergeron's return next season. And the first Bruins-Flyers game.

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Another thing I've taken to heart from this series is the renewed rivalry with the Canadiens. Since the mid-90s it hasn't been much of a rivalry with the Bruins not really having the team to compete with them. The Bruins lost all 8 games with the Habs this season (and the first 2 in this playoff series). To bring this series to a game 7 was an enormous accomplishment. The Bruins barely made the playoffs as the eigth, and final, seed. The Canadiens were the best team in the Eastern Conference. Believe me when I say - the Canadiens's fans weren't looking forward to a game 7.

Outside of that, watching this series has renewed my personal (sports) hatred of the Bleu, Blance, et Rouge... Their fans are smug and fair-weather, in my opinion. Watching them stream out of the Bell Centre during game 5 as the Bruins were handing it to them was a delight. I'm looking forward to the next round just to see who will take them out of Cup Contention. My second favorite team is the team that does just that.

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Finally, I was glad to see that the Bruins managed to garner some interest from the local sports fan community in these parts.

I'm so tired of the over-saturation of everything Red Sox. I'm a Sox fan but things are getting a bit ridiculous. It's almost the same with the Patriots. And with the Celtics beginning their run to their next NBA championship, the Bruins have been a forgotten team - and hockey a forgotten sport.

It's too bad. Hockey is a phenomenal game to watch. Playoff hockey is that, ten-fold. The Bruins need to keep the pace of improvement and build on what they've accomplished this season.

It may be a generational thing, with this not being a generation of hockey fans, but I believe if the Bruins can get through a few rounds of the playoffs in the next season or two that may change. I'm hopeful, anyway. Yes, I know I'm biased - but I'll take an NHL playoff game over anything in terms of edge-of-your-seat excitement.

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There are probably hundreds, thousands, more words I could devote to this but this will suffice for now. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the Sox defense of their World Series title, the Celts' run for the NBA title, and the (ahem) NFL draft? No, sorry, I can't condone being excited for that... In addition, I also hope that you save a small bit of hope, excitement, of your heart - for the toughest guys on the Boston sports scene.

Let's Go Bruins!

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Oh! One more comment. One other thing that separates the NHL Playoffs from the other major sports. The handshake. The post-series handshake, when the teams line up on the ice, skate past, and shake the hand of each, individual player on the opposing team.

There were a number of big one-on-one battles within this series. I was particularly surprised by the effectiveness defenseman Aaron Ward (#44) showed in taking Alexei Kovalev out of the mix.

The battle of the series, however, was Milan Lucic with Mike Komisarek. These guys beat on each other for seven, long, tough games. It's one of the great sub-plots of an NHL Playoff series. In any case, through the magical brilliance of the DVR and the electronic wizardry of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01 Digital Camera, I was able to capture the precise moment these two players met up in the queue.

Home Fries

Jeez - reading back on that last post, makes it feel like a year. Apparently, it was about a month... somewheres in that vicinity, anyway.

It's about a month later and everything looks lined up. A couple stubborn hurdles to pass over but nothing (positive thoughts) insurmountable. Down the home stretch I go.

You hear a lot about how stressful the process of buying a house is. Some people take it and multiply it - so it's more stressful than it needs to be. Some people underestimate it and assume it'll be easy. Word to the wise - "They're all different. And each will drive you crazy."

That's what I can say I've learned to this point. Nothing makes sense. Everything is done backwards... It's mayhem! The Real Estate market is - fucked up - !

Seriously. It's well messed up.

Too much weird shit has happened within the last month that there's no way to doco it all here. They're stories worth telling, though. So. I guess. Beware?

One other thing before signing off - I just saw something on the news that led me to believe that Patrice Bergeron would be ready for the first round of the playoffs. This is a huge development, as he's been out since late October with a severe concussion.

I wonder if it's an organization pushing a player too hard for their own gain. Think about it. Bergeron's a Quebec native. The series opens Thursday with two games in Montreal (game 2 Saturday). That's a boost the Bruins could use - having gone 0-8 against the Habs in the regular season, without Bergie.

We'll see. It's probably a lot of over-thought and over-analyzation but it stands to mention : Let's see how much Patrice Bergeron produces in the playoffs; and let's see how much punishment he takes.

Don't get me wrong - I'd have nothing more than the Bs upsetting the Habs in round one... but, realistically, I don't see it happening. Montreal is too fast and skilled to lose to the Bruins in a seven game series.

I have to go with the Canadiens in five games. Gods be pleased, I'm wrong.

Let's Go Bruins!

In the Hold of Others

First, a quick re-cap of last month's 'offer' I was preparing for my first ever bid on a house.

I finally got everything together and prepared an offer about a week and a half ago - maybe it was Wednesday 27 February. Thursday, I find out that the nitwit selling the house already had it under agreement for two weeks. There was no indication in the MLS system which, apparently, isn't quite 'kosher'... Had I known, it would've saved me alot of stress and aggravation. I wasn't too happy with that revelation at the time.

Now, it could be classified under 'unexpected negative events that tend to correct themselves somehow'. For now, at least, that's the case.

As soon as that deal fell through, it was back to the search. I went to three open houses the following weekend and one of the three houses looked somewhat promising. While making arrangements to view the property with my friend (aka Real Estate Broker), an automated e-mail came in Monday morning (3 March). The photos looked great, the location was within my range, and I had to check the place out.

That afternoon during my lunch 'hour' I went and took a look. The house looked perfect. We were told that an offer was coming in that evening, so I decided to throw one of my own in, as well. So, one good thing about the original debacle was that I had already gotten alot of the information I needed to put in an offer in good standing (what I felt was something I could handle). That made things so much easier to make that quick decision.

The next night, I heard back and the sellers had accepted my offer. A pretty sly offer it was, too.

So now, I've got a signed offer on a house in the same town as the original house I was looking at. This new house, however, looks like a much better match for what I was looking for. The two most obvious things being a wood-burning fireplace and an attached, one-car garage. Things the original house did not have. Funny how things like that work out, innit?

Friday afternoon was the home inspection and things went as well as could be expected. A few typical things were found - but nothing catastrophic that might scare me away from buying. On top of that, everything in the house is practically brand new. Tile floors, hardwood floors, a large 'family room', etc. It's perfect.

I can't get too caught up in it, though. I won't claim it as my own until everything is taken care of. Right now, it's (what else?) the financing that is the biggest question. Originally, I was told, "Don't worry, we can get you in..." with all the requirements I would need to get the deal done. Now, I'm on edge waiting for that confirmation that, yeah, they can get me in with all that.

It's brutal, not knowing. I do have some slight recourse, should I need to tap some additional capital. Ideally, I won't have to.

So that's where it is now - a signed agreement with the Purchase and Sales signing set for Tuesday 18 March and a closing of 30 April. That gives me a week to nail down the lender to commit to giving me the loan. And that, in today's market, is no slam-dunk (as much as I was told about a month and a half ago).

For the time being, I remain optimistic. Time to put the screws to 'em and get some commitment from them. That's the next step. Once I have that, I'll feel alot more confident that it will all work out. Until then, I'll proceed with tempered enthusiasm, knowing that things could go pear-shaped at a moment's notice.

I guess that's what everyone is referring to when they say home buying can be stressful. Personally, I know I'm ready. It's relying on other people, institutions, and such that really bring the stress into it.

I'm ready to roll, yet stuck in the hold of others... a tough situation to be in.

Strange Days Indeed

Odd things are happening these days. Cryptic words, for sure. As they could be assigned to your personal 'happenings'... in the event anything happening around you, you find odd.

Think about that. For some time, later on. In the meantime, by the innate nature of the blog, I hate to say that you gotta read my thoughts. Them's the rules.

Luckily for you, I've lost, misplaced, or entirely forgotten most - if not all - of my thoughts. Thanks alot.

What I do know is that I did not put an offer on a house, as I insinuated in my last post. However, things have been on the upswing in that realm and this might be the week.

I've found a decent mortgage broker and I like the house, so if things go well this week an offer is in the making.

Whether it's the offer that gets it done is another story. But ya gotta try it to know...

This week could be interesting.

Bon Hiver

What a weekend.

It's dead winter and I've had a phenomenal weekend. Everyone's always complaining about winter in Massachusetts... I say, "It is what you make of it."

Not sure if I've ever, technically, said that - but I do know that's been my theory ever since I was small. The winter season is beautiful and therapeutic. The idea of your entire existance being blanketed with layers and layers of snow is fantastic.

Every winter, snow comes to New England. Every winter, people complain. Every spring, why would you be anywhere else?

No idea.

One of the cool/exciting things I did over the weekend was visit an Open House. It's an old 'colonial' about 100 years old with the inside refurbished. The interior is all new - doors, windows, bathroom, kitchen, floors, etc. Detached two-story garage. Very nice.

Much to my surprise, I'm throwing an offer out on the place. Kind of surprising but it looks in such good condition, I have to do it.

It's only the 3d or 5th house I've looked at... but it's got alot going for it. Now, I just have to find someone who'll lend me a few bucks and I'm on my way.

Should be interesting. I'm well prepared for it not happening. In fact, that's just about what I'm expecting. That's fine. It's a great opportunity to get things rolling and start learning the process. On the other hand, if it works out I'll be pretty happy. At least until the roof caves in...

Knobcast : Episode Six

Episode 6 is now available for your enjoyment, here on Knobcast.

Odds and Sods, Bits and Bobs

I finally took the plunge. I cracked the case on my dormant and dusty pc to try and work on the faulty hard drive. Now I know why I waited so long...

Needless to say, it's not going well. Not only does the drive not register as a peripheral (connected by USB to my, so far, trusty laptop) but I tried to install the brand new hard drive that I purchased over three months ago and that has become a struggle.

I'm starting to believe that there are 'time bombs' installed on all computers that are sold today. After a randomly determined time - say, anywhere between one to four years - there is a command that is triggered and the machine melts to shit in some fashion or another. With my last few machines, it's been like clockwork.

I'm about ready to take the hard drive to a data-recovery expert, pay the ridiculous fee, and get whatever data I can from it... and then, as mentioned in a previous post, smash the thing to bits with a hurley. This is bullshit.

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It's official : Knobcast has a nice, new permanent home. There have been two new episodes posted since last mention, with the final episode of Season 1 upcoming this weekend. It's been fun. Check it out and let us know what you think.

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It's "that time of year" again... the Holidays. Yipee. I could go on and on about everything I dislike about it all. Maybe in a future post. One thing I do enjoy is seeing all the houses festooned with holiday lights. Not the garish, over-the-top nonsense but the simple, classic, understated stuff.

Tastefully appointed houses with just the right touch are the ones that really get my attention. I have no patience for inflatable Santas and snowmen; colored lights haphazardly tossed onto bushes and trees; entire yards covered in plastic reindeer replicants... Enough.

All you need is simple, white lights in the windows, a classic wreath, and a spotlight highlighting it all. That's it. Maybe a symmetrical string of lights strategically placed on a fence or outlining the house.

Maybe I'll do a photo exposé of my favourite houses in the neighborhood. That sounds like a good weekend project. Beats going to the mall, that's for sure.

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The real estate market is supposedly still leveling off, meaning the prices should be returning to normal. However, that's all relative to what you can afford and the area of the country in which you live. To save you doing the math, it's not easy up here in the northeast on a single income.

What doesn't help is watching the real estate programs and seeing the 'difficult' choices the first-time buyers have to make. Ohhh, a four bedroom, two bath colonial for $280K is just too much... errr, whot!? Yah, if you're in friggin' Tennessee...

I know the cost of living differs wildly throughout the U.S. but it ain't easy watching these shows and seeing some of the available houses - and knowing there's nothing of the sort available for miles (hundreds) in my area. It's brutal.

But... it appears the landlord has taken 'my' house off the market for the winter (so I'm safe for a few months, I hope). Probably a wise idea. A better idea would be to realize the thing is priced about $100K too high. But I'm not complaining right now. Suits me for the time being.

There's no guarantee but it looks like the next year or so might open up some opportunities for me to purchase something. I've recently seen a house that has some promise, about 20 minutes from where I currently live. It probably won't be 'the one' but the fact that it is plausible is somewhat encouraging.

All I want is a house with good structural integrity, no impending, high-cost repairs, in a decent location... that's it. Is that too much to ask? Probably. Hey, you never know.

Apparently Not

Sheesh. What a pessimist's attitude I had just nine short days ago. Re-reading that last post, as I sit here watching the Sox destroying the Rockies in Game 1 of the World Series (13-1 lead in the 7th), it's clear that the 2004 World Series win hadn't eliminated all of my Red Sox angst. Talk about an over-reaction.

This time round, though, I think it'll be different.

The comeback in the ALCS was fun to watch and I don't see that momentum slowing down anytime soon. When Julio Lugo is on base four times, needless to say, things are going well. And now Alex Cora is on the field. The Sox should roll and take their second World Series trophy in four years. Then, the angst will be gone for good. And let's just leave it at that.

In other recent developments, there's a new Knobcast episode (3) available. It can be found at the original Knobcast site - and also at the possible new home of Knobcast here.

We've experienced frequent technical difficulties at our original home, so Knob the Elder has done some work in migrating Knobcast to a blog-based location here at blogspot.com. Kudos to K the E for his work. Official relocation will be announced when a final decision has been made.

Panic Time ?

I'm not sure I have the energy or mental capacity to truly break down the current American League Championship Series with the detail it (may or may not) deserve. However, I must say that after watching three games between the Sox and Indians, if I were a betting man - and had the option to put a bet down at this stage - I'd put my money on the Cleveland Indians.

I just think they have a much stronger pitching staff and a great line-up of recognizable offensive stars and their unknowns are out-performing the bottom of the Red Sox order.

Is the series over? Oh, by no means. There are four games left. The Sox can take 3 of 5 from the Indians, for sure. However, it appears the Sox bats have been quieted by this Cleveland pitching staff - and that, more than anything, can be disastrous for a baseball team in the playoffs. They only need to do it for a short period of time... and Cleveland has been getting it done the last two games.

Tim Wakefield goes tomorrow night. This is make-or-break.

If he's back to his old self and he can pull out seven innings, couple of earnies, the Sox might be okay. If it's Cleveland 5, Sox (anything less than five) after two or three? Forget it.

It's becoming obvious that the Red Sox don't have the full package at this stage of the season. If they move along and win the World Series from this point, it'll be an amazing feat of over-achievement, in my eyes.

They don't seem to have the pitching depth or the 'clutch' hitting that is needed to win it all. Hate to use the 'clutch' hitting refrain - but what I'm saying is, they're just not hitting... at all.

Should be an interesting next few games. Much more than could be said about their ho-hum ALDS victory over the Angels.

Fall (back) Into the Groove

... aaaaaand, that's that.

September. It came. It went. Good riddance.

Outside April, it might be my least favourite month. I don't really know why April ranks twelfth out of twelve. Maybe it doesn't. But I do know #9 on the calendar is way down there on my list of 'top months'.

I can say with certainty, however, that this is my favourite of all the months. October. I absolutely love it. Especially here in New England.

One of the many benefits of October is the beginning of the NHL season. Tonight is the first night I've been able to sit and watch a Bruins game. They've played two to this point but I missed most of those due to previous engagements. They're in Anaheim, taking on the defending Stanley Cup champion Ducks right now - so, not a bad game to catch. It helps that it started at 10:30 EST.

What's been going on? What's been happening?

Well, first off - no change in the real estate realm. That's all I'm gonna say on that. It's good news, as far as my situation is concerned.

Outside of that, this past weekend was RibFest. It's an annual party my friend hosts at his house that developed almost ten years ago. Actually, about six years ago - the first three years were small gatherings until we realized that the ribs were way too good to keep to ourselves. Before that, it was just a few dudes getting together to cook the best Ribs ever. RibFest IV was the first 'official' RibFest when we decided to invite the masses to share in the deliciousness. It's been a grand ol' party ever since.

RibFest IV was the first year we introduced t-shirts. They've been a staple - and a hit - ever since and in recent years have become as much anticpated as the ribs themselves.

It's a great time and a great event and I'm already looking forward to RibFest X next fall. I might have to do a RibFest pictorial in a future post to share the progression of our t-shirt design over the years. Throw in some photos of the ribs, themselves ... it'll almost be like you're there.

Another artful diversion during the past month which has kept me from posting my inimitable prose in this space is the recently launched podcast that I've begun with a few mates. It's Knobcast.

It's in its beginning stages but it has been really fun to this point. We're still learning but you can give us a listen at : Knobcast. Check it out. Let us know what you think.

After that, there's not much more to relay. My messed up computer is still messed up. Although, I haven't done a lick of work in trying to regain what is missing. Maybe that says something about what I'm "missing" - but, come Tax time, I'm sure I'll feel the sting. So, that project is still on the books.

Going back to the best month of the year - I can't get enough of the beautiful days and cool nights. Perfect for sleeping with the windows cracked. The Halloween decorations that rival the Christmas decorations fill me with delight. The mere act of driving down a tree-lined street, outlined in the gold, yellow, brown, and red leaves that punctuate the season... jack-o-lanterns... witches, ghosts, monsters, and ghouls... nothing beats it. Nothing.

It is, hands down, the best time of the year.

Happy October, everyone.

And Now For My Next Trick

Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat.

On second thought, I think I'll leave that one to the expert... Bullwinkle.

Instead, I've ordered a new 80 GB hard drive for my computer which I'll attempt to install sometime this weekend. Perhaps on Monday, it being Labor Day and all. Seems fitting enough.

It arrived on my doorstep this past Monday (don't you just love the Internets?). I was planning to get going on it tonight - but I got home around 8:00 and I didn't want a dismantled PC strewn across my kitchen for the remainder of the week, had things gone horrifically wrong. I hear it's a piece of cake to do but I'd rather not leave things to chance with the way things are currently trudging along.

The thought here, in my ongoing quest to retrieve my missing gigabytes now residing in binary purgatory, is to get the machine up and running again. Once that's been done, add the original drive as a parallel drive, pull everything off it, and dump it onto the new one (then unceremoniously smash the old one to bits with a hurley).

Simple, eh. We'll see. It'll all depend on whether it's completely shot or just incapable of being used as the boot drive. I should be so lucky.

Either way, it should make for an interesting experiment. And for the forty bucks I spent on the new drive - it's worth the effort before having to take it to a data recovery shop. That'll be expensive, for sure.

So, that's that. I've got nothing else. Exhilirating, innit?

File Under : You've Got to be Kidding Me

After a blissful weekend-plus of uninterrupted network connections, including an entire day (Monday) of working from home, I've been mercilessly blasted back into the world of PC hell. And this time, it's worse. Like a bad movie sequel.

I should've known things were too good to be true.

After turning on my desktop PC, I went and put some clothes away as it booted up. Only to return to find one of those frightening DOS-like screens with the giant letters showing on the monitor. All sorts of warnings and scary messages which mean nothing to those of us without a clue about the detailed inner-workings of our machines.

I'm a programmer by trade and had a Commodore 64 computer when I was 13, which must put me into some level of 'computer nerd' (which I happily embrace, thank you). But when shit like this happens, I'm lost.

Vrr, k'plink. Vrr, k'plink. Vrr, k'plink... A repetitive... taunting... horrifying... sound. Over and over again - accompanied by an ominous message to the effect of "Windows can not find a hard drive" or some nonsense.

What the ?! Thus, You've got to be kidding me.

After a few weekends of battling routers, IP addresses, TCP/IP Protocols, Subnet Masks, etc., I felt as if I had slayed the Wireless Dragon. Desktop and Laptop, both humming along, internet connections ablaze. This, after months of my desktop being all but inoperable due to network chaos. I'm a genius, no?

No, apparently. I find my desktop laying on its deathbed; burnt to a crisp, sputtering its barely audible last gasps.

The fear rushed through me as I made an assumptive connection - the introduction of the new router had been the invitation the Dragon was really waiting for. I rushed to my laptop and started it up, fearing the worst.

Alas, you're reading this so, thankfully, my laptop had been spared the wrath.

Actually, thankfully might be too passive. Luckily might have been a better choice. Luckily for the manufacturer of my new router.

If my laptop had been affected in a similar manner, I'd have absolutely lost it. I can't think of what I'd do - as customer service, these days, is more customer avoidance than actual service - but I'd have started some witch hunt or another. And that would make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry.

In any event, I'm trying to remain relatively calm amidst the situation. I don't use my desktop all that much but I was looking to use it tonight to transfer a bunch of music from it to my laptop. That project will certainly have to wait. I just hope there isn't a similar timebomb awaiting me here in this machine.

For now, it's back to the research board. Searching for answers, solutions, any toe-hold I can find to resuscitate the damned, hairy ape.

Of course, I welcome any words of wisdom from anyone who's experienced a similar fate and give my gratitude in advance.

Either way, I still have to ask, "You're joking, right?"

Thoughts On : Weather, Routers, Haircuts and the Eighties, & the Joys of Autumn

What a glorious day. Well, glorious might be a tad strong a word - but it's pretty good, nonetheless. And leaps and bounds above this past Wednesday. Yikes.

Here in the northeast, the early part of this week was brutal, weather-wise. Low-to-mid 90s with about 70% humidity. Days you really long for cool October weather. The A/C was on in the apartment but not cranked up to 11, as it was the previous week. No particular reason, so I guess it's my own fault.

Adding insult to heat exhaustion, my wireless router finally crapped the sheets. I was ready to rail against the inadequacies of our modern products 'these days' but I realized that it had done its duty. It must've been four years old, at least. Wireless-B technology (and those of you with wireless know how out-of-date that is). I figure I paid about $150 for the router and adapter. That works out to about 10 cents a day over that time. I'll take that.

But, in any event, I wasn't very pleased with how the evening was going. Well, aside from the delicious meal I had at my favourite Mexican joint earlier... that's always good stuff. Ain't it, lads? You know who I'm talkin' to.

So, Thursday night I stopped and picked up a new MIMO technology router. Took about a half hour to install it. Presto! Back in bidness. And with security encryption, to boot - which I could never quite figure out with my old router.

Now, I'm hooked up again... and it's a refreshing 51 degrees. Hold on! That's ridiculous. It can't be. Sorry, 54 degrees - at least that's what the Weather Channel site says. Wow, that's phenomenal.

On top of that, I stopped to get my mop chopped on my way home from work. I love getting my hair cut. I swear, one of these days I'm going to fall asleep right in the chair. It's so relaxing. I'd pay 15 bucks to go in some place and just have my head massaged for 20 minutes. Love it.

Tonight was a nice treat, too. A lovely, young, cappuccino-skinned lass was at the helm. A nice added bonus.

Not sure if it was a radio station or piped-in music but about half-way through my cut, the song "One More Night" by Phil Collins came on. I immediately pictured myself in a scene from one of those fantastically cheezy Eighties movies with the awful music and entirely improbable scenes where things get exciting, if you know what I mean. It made me laugh to myself, anyway.

As if these simple pleasures weren't enough to enjoy, tonight was the first pre-season game for the Patriots. Not that I put any stock in the games, themselves - they're basically glorified practices - but it does mean that the NFL regular season (and Autumn in New England!) is just around the corner.

There's no better place to be at any time of the year than Autumn in New England. The weather is perfect. The scenery is beautiful. The Pats and Bruins seasons begin... fantastic. And on a related front, the new television series kick in. Although, that's true for anyone, everywhere in the States but it's still something I look forward to at this time of year.

This is also, typically, the season when I pay some attention to my floundering wardrobe and pick up some new duds. Some strange connection to my youth when Mom would take me 'back-to-school' shopping. I know this because I tend to buy new pens around this time - even if I don't need them.

There it is. A small collection of non-sequitors, conveniently packaged for your consumption. Until next time, Cheers.

This and That

Back in action...

It's been over a month since throwing something down here. Figured I'd try and get back in the swing with a few quick updates.

On the real estate front - not much happening, lately. There has been a relatively steady flow of people coming to check out the house. I'd say an average of one showing per week over the last month or so. Not sure if that can be classified as high volume but it's been consistent, nonetheless.

I also learned that my landlord has dropped the listing price by about 25 G's. That's a 50/50 indication, I think. On one hand, it shows that there haven't been any serious offers on the property. On the other, it means that he's really looking to unload the place. The good thing is, high summer isn't the best time for real estate transactions. So, it doesn't appear that any changes are imminent.

My friend (the one who's been lodging with me for the past few months) took me to take a look at a two-family house that's been in his sights for about 10 months, now. The idea being we go in on it together in one fashion or another. It still seems a bit over-priced in the current market, though. I wasn't too impressed with the property, to be perfectly honest, so I'm not too concerned with it either way.

Another option is for us to grab hold of my current house and do something with it. But the numbers don't look too enticing there, either.

So, it's still a wait-and-see situation for the time being. Fine with me, at this stage.

The other notable bit is my recent vacation I took in Ireland the last week of June. It was a family reunion, of sorts, on my mom's side of my family.

I'd visited Ireland for the first time in May of 2005 and was psyched to be back again. This time, I was with 20 members of my extended family. Aunts, uncles, cousins, cousins' kids... and my parents. It was the first time my parents had been out of the U.S. and I was so happy they were both able to make the trip.

In the past eight years or so, I've been lucky enough to do a decent amount of international travel. To share that experience with my Mom and Dad, on their first trip, was just awesome. My Mom already wants to go back for a golf tour. I hope she's able to do that.

I've signed up for a Flickr account and am currently in the process of posting the 400-plus photos I took while there (closer to 500 but I'm editing out the duplicates and most of the lousy ones)... As soon as I've got everything up, I'll post the link, here. Until then, here are a few sample photos :

Check ya later...

Good Bye, Good Boy

This is the toughest post I've had to create in my short, non-illustrious, pro-bono career as author of this site.

Last Friday, 8 June 2007, I said, "Good bye" to a good mate of mine for the last time. One of my two pet cats, Buzzard, died after more than 13 years as my furry companion.

I'm not gonna get all sappy about it but I will say that he will be sadly missed. And not only by me. Those who 'knew' him, I believe, truly enjoyed his personality - which could be accurately described as 80% cat, 20% dog. At least that's the way I always looked at him.

There was a point last summer where he was looking uncharacteristically lethargic. After a visit to the vet, it was determined he had diabetes. I was told I would need to administer insulin injections twice a day... and immediately thought, "No way I can do this."

Thankfully, I have a friend who is great with cats and loves them more than anyone else I know. She ensured me it was "no big deal" and encouraged me through the initial period. After a few weeks, I was an old pro and - sure enough - it was "no big deal."

A month, or so, later, he was gaining weight, taking care of his black and white coat, and springing back to life before my eyes. I was thrilled. I think he was, as well.

Fast forward to this spring and his glucose levels were leveling out. About two months ago, I got the word from the vet that the insulin treatment was no longer necessary (of course, this was about two weeks after spending $150 on a tiny bottle of insulin!)

"I'm golden," I thought, as my impending trip to Ireland inched closer by the week. I didn't want to burden my friend with having to deal with the syringes and everything... nor did I want to, if avoidable, spring the cash to board him at the vets so they could take care of it.

However, about a month after that good news, he began losing weight again - and I could tell he wasn't taking good care of his coat, either. I was a bit worried, so during a follow-up visit, I mentioned his weight loss and was told that it was normal after being off the insulin treatments. As explained, it made sense to me.

As the following weeks went on, he appeared to be continuously losing weight and his coat was looking matty. He was shedding like a bastard - and I knew it was abnormal because my other cat had a clean, smooth, shiny coat that was hardly shedding... even after the early hot spells we had this spring (so hot, I was friggin' shedding, for crying out loud).

I called and made an apppointment to bring him in again. Things just didn't seem right with the l'il guy.

He had a severe loss of appetite - my friends that know him can attest, that is about as abnormal as he could get - and he was spending his entire day just sitting/laying up against the wall, under the window in the dining room. Another uncharacteristic trait, as he was always in my face, mewing his silent meow (he always had what seemed like permanent laryngitis - one of his many unique qualities).

This was last Tuesday - a week ago. The bloodwork came back the next day and he was diagnosed with pancreatitis. The urinalysis hadn't come back yet (that would take 5-7 days) but there was also the possibility of a kidney infection and/or UTI (urinary tract infection).

I was worried. Not so much about his health, as I was assured everything was treatable. I was worried about how I was going to manage to get the necessary medication into him on a daily basis. The old cliché about giving a cat a pill... well, it's a cliché for a reason. It ain't easy. Never mind four per day.

But, having gone through the insulin thing last summer and all winter, I was up for the task. Then, after a couple days of flying fur (his) and scratched hands (mine), he just stopped eating altogether. I called the doc and she suggested I bring him in so she could install a 'feeding tube'.

I know what alot of you might be thinking - this is outrageous. If you knew this guy, you'd probably go along with it, like I did.

So, I brought him in on Friday for the operation. Our drive to the vet that afternoon would be the last time I was with him while he was alive.

I got a call at about 7:45 Friday evening and my vet, distraught and crying, told me "we lost him." Due to some complications after the surgery, he was gone.

In no way do I hold the doctor responsible. How could I? After all, she was doing everything she could to get him back in good health. Far more than I could ever have done on my own... by a country mile. It was just an unfortunate event.

I'm gonna miss him all to hell, there's no doubt about that. But he lived a good 13-plus years. And not a day went by that he didn't manage to put a smile on my face in some way - even on my darkest days. He was the best. I'll remember him always.

Good Bye, Good Boy.

Whoa - That Was Fast.

It's been about a month, now, since the last post in the 'real estate' series.

Not much has changed on my end. However, my landlord officially put the house on the market this past weekend. Friday evening or Saturday, I believe.

To my amazement, last night (Tuesday) was the first showing. There's already a second one scheduled for tomorrow night (Thursday, which is tonight really). That's two within five days. I have to say it's a great piece of property but I'm still a bit surprised at the quick response.

My friend who's been boarding here for the past few months is in the real estate biz, to some extent - and he caught it in the MLS listings this weekend. Apparently, it's one of the higher priced multi-family properties in town. Yet, still, two quick showings in less than a week. Interesting, to say the least.

There's not really much more to add at this stage. I guess I just wasn't expecting this level of activity this early on.

So all those initial fears I had have come flooding back after a month of relative calmness. It's not a bad thing. Definitely good motivation to keep me on my toes.

With all this, I'm now even more grateful for the upcoming holiday weekend. It should be a good opportunity to spend a few solid days going through the inventory and cleaning house. I'm actually looking forward to it.

Besides that, it should be a good weekend to continue my latest flurry of reading - and plowing through a couple of Netflix viewings, to boot.

On tap for entertainment this weekend are a couple DVDs and one of two books I just got in the mail : The Wedding Crashers and Blue Car (DVDs) and Alice Cooper - Golf Monster (book).

The other book is I'll Sleep When I'm Dead - The Dirty Life and Times of Warren Zevon. That one will be pushed back in the queue a bit, though. I've a few others to get to before that. The Alice Cooper one is short (~250 pages), so that'll be a quickie.

I can't wait to read it because Alice Cooper is a riot. You may find that surprising if you've never paid much attention to him - but he really is.

So, that's it for the time being. Enjoy the Memorial Day weekend... and please take some time to remember those that have passed before us.

The Adventures of Coma Girl and the Excitement Gang

Admittedly, I arrived at the greatness of The Clash a long while after they were 'new' to the scene. Years, a decade or more, later.

That's not totally true. I did own a cassette version of Combat Rock when it came out. But I'll fully admit ignorance to (most) anything they'd done prior to that "MTV" record in 1983. Give me a break; I was 13.

That doesn't diminish their influence on me and the esteem to which I hold them as a band. A pillar, an essential of Rock and Roll. One of, if not my favorite, artists of all time.

Unquestionable.

You may or may not like The Clash. And that's fine. But I'm willing to bet that more than one or two post-punk era bands you enjoy, did. No, not bet. Guarantee.

I can't get into a whole Clash history here - but I have to give a nod to my man. Joe Strummer.

Back a few years ago, I'd heard that he was touring with his own band - The Mescaleros. I decided I didn't have the time to go to the show, and missed it. A while later, he died.

My bad. I should have gone to see him live when I had the chance.

This isn't some sappy "now that you're gone" retrospect. I've been listening to Streetcore in my car, recently, and realized that his talent and influence have been wildly overlooked - or underappreciated.

Joe Strummer was a master lyricist. His songs filled with words making up part of the instrumentation. Check out Beck and Anthony Kedis as those who, I'm not shy in suggesting, were influenced by him. I have no proof - but I'm sure a 50/50 bet would score.

There's lots to say about this guy that I don't have the time for right now... but after the past week, listening (again) to his voice, his lyrics, and the way Streetcore was finished after Joe's passing that makes me confident in my assessment.

Joe Strummer is a man that can not be overlooked when reviewing the history of Rock.

There may be more detail here in the future.. Until then, just remember his name.

Wot's all this, then?

For a few months now, I've noticed something while walking from my car in the office parking lot to my building. Then again, on my way back to my car at the end of the day. It is something on the ground and it's remained there for all this time. It must've been scraped up by the plows over the winter but it hasn't disappeared with the fairer weather.

It's a patch of the paint, or whatever it is, they use to coat the lot.

There are bits and pieces of it everywhere but this one caught my eye due to its size - and it's conspicuous shape.

After the first couple times I saw it, it dawned on me. It looked like the United Kingdom.

This morning on my way in, I decided to snap a photo of it for perusal here.

Turns out it was a good incentive to find a new FTP program to upload files, too. I needed something on my laptop I could use to transfer files to my remote storage site. I found what appears to be a good program for doing that. Much improved over my utility I have on my pc.

Anyway, here's a map of the UK I've borrowed from a website ::

Here's the photo I snagged this morning. Granted, it's not a precise replica of the actual island - but I think it's close enough ::

I wonder if anyone else has noticed the similarities.

Cheers.

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Yeah, so,

before I get into it, let me just say, I love the Moss move by the Pats. it's a no-lose deal. he kicks ass, he kicks ass. he drags ass, he's out on his ass. it's that simple. and after seeing some footage and hearing some commentary - i'm looking forward to the Belichick Moss Experiment. very excited.

but the point is i am so psyched with my new tires. finally got the Jeep in for an appointment. man, wish i had done it sooner.

my tires were so bad, the whole car would shake something fierce as soon as i hit 55-63 mph. yah, it was that specific. uncontrollable to the point that, it's time. like, within the week.

so, i was just gonna get a replacement of the exact tire that came on the car from the factory. the guy at the shop tells me there's another tire, cheaper, and 'better' i could also get. couple questions answered to my satisfaction later, i'm in.

four new yokohama geolandar a/t-s tires.

driving out of that place was unbelievable. it was the smoothest ride i'd ever had in that car. at least that i could remember. the old tires had 62K+ miles on 'em. five an' a half years... so, could be that the original drives were as smooth.

i dunno... it felt like ridin' on butter - but with complete control. like there was some kinda fin coming out the undercarriage of it, stickin' into an invisible track on the road. like i was in one of those electric, trigger-controlled toy racecar things i had as a kid. but better controlled.

and i know the shopkeeper is supposed to keep you happy. make sure you think you're happy with your purchase. but two different guys commented to the like of, "hey... that's a good tire." something like that.

but something about the way they said it. i believed them. and that first and second drive on those things... can't wait to drive to work tomorrow. can't wait for some rain. can't wait for some snow. i'm dyin' to check these things out.

the smoothness, though. it's unbelievable. oh, brian. those ears. how do you? they're so soft. they're like dog ears.

that's kinda what they feel like. family guy people will know what i'm saying. others may not.

all i'm sayin' is, these new tires were worth every dime. the Jeep feels higher, like it was when i first got it, and sturdier, ditto. never underestimate the contribution of a good tire. on any vehicle.