Think of it as reclaiming my desk's freedom.

It's been quite a while since my last post. I got busy and this little device is one of the causes.

My desktop machine is slowly slipping away as if dementia is setting it. While considering its eventual replacement, I was struck with the thought that more and more the way I use my computer has evolved to the point where even data storage is on the interwebs. Some examples: I've stopped using local email in favour of Gmail. I tend to use Google Documents in lieu of keeping MS Word (or even Open Office) on my machine.

Neither R nor I have traditionally been early adopters. For example, we bought a GameCube less than a year before the Wii was announced.

This time, though, things were a little different. Virtually the moment I read the first, sketchy descriptions of the EEE PC, I knew it was what I needed.

So, you may wonder, is Linux a problem. Frankly, a graphical interface is wrapped around an O/S blurs out most hard edges. The EEE's "simple" interface - tabbed pages with big, friendly icons for the software is simple and easy to navigate. Yes, I installed the traditional "desktop" but I used it for a week and switched back to the "simple" one. I spend my days clicking "Start|Programs|etc etc" so at home it's nice to click a big, happy "Web" icon to start Firefox.

And it was cheap! $399 Canadian for what amounts to a fully featured laptop that weighs less than 2lbs.

Of course, I'm not one of the fanboys who've been tearing it apart to install bluetooth or any of a number of devices. I applaud them but share their exuberance from the sideline. I am the LAST person you want loose with a soldering iron!

Happy New Year

It's a bright, sunny but cold (-12C) here in Monkey-town and I love it. Bright, sunny days always fill me with hope and good feelings - that things are looking up. It's a great way to start 2008.

In a little while, R and I will be heading out for breakfast at Chez Cora as we have every Jan 1st since we moved here. It's a nice place, the people who work there are really friendly and the food is quite good.

This falls into my "make Jan 1st as pleasant as possible and perhaps the rest of the year will follow" scenario.

Resolutions? I haven't reached the point where I stop making them completely. So, am I resolving anything? Well, lets just say

• this will make our next trip to Europe more smooth and
• this will challenge my mind and
• this place will challenge my body.

I think that's enough, don't you?

Oh yes. And, this year, why don't you resolve to hug someone even if you don't think they need it? Think of it as planting a karmic seed.