Not in my Garage

Hey there.  Last night, the Cleveland Cavaliers got a little revenge on the much hated LeBron James and the Miami Heat.  For those of you living under a rock, LeBron James left the Cavaliers in the off season and made a spectacle of it.  All the while, stringing along the Cleveland team and their fans.  Because he handled the whole thing in a tasteless way, there isn't much love for LeBron in Cleveland, and the owner is making sure LeBron knows it.

In their first meeting, the Heat put a pounding on the Cavs.  Just killed them.  In last night's game, it was a completely different story, and it all started in the Quicken Loans garage.  That's right, the garage.  lol  While a Cav, LeBron was free to do whatever he pleased in the arena.  He brought in his friends into players only areas and pretty much flaunted the whole "king" label.  He tried to do the same last night and the owner made it clear to his staff that the players only area was strictly for players only.  So when LeBron showed up with a whole crew of friends, guess who got turned away at the garage entrance?  lol  LeBron was allowed in, while everyone else was told to go back.

Now this is standard stuff.  There is no discrimination going on here.  It is a rule that is strictly enforced and LeBron should have taken it in stride and said to his people to go the other way.  But instead of that, he decided to act like a baby and during the Heat introduction, he was missing.  What?!?!  When was the last time that you saw a player that present when being introduced?  It was one of the most ridiculous things I have ever seen and I can't believe that this guy still doesn't get it.  So what was his excuse?  He had to go to restroom.  HA!  What kind of excuse is that?  He's not above the game, not everyone is going to allow him to do what he pleases and I applaud the Cleveland ownership for making that stand.  He pretty much LeBron, and the world, that he's had enough of LeBron walking all over Cleveland and that they have finally turned a new leaf.  So what happened during the game?  The Cavs beat the Heat by 12 points or so.  The lowly Cavs, having only 14 wins or so this season, beat the "super team" of the Miami Heat.  The win, and the day's prior events, excited the Cleveland owner that he Twittered this message, "Not in our garage."  4 simple words, yet filled with such emotion.

Looking to Start Your Own Store?

Hey there friends.  So have you have a chance to check out the great offers that SMC corp has to offer?  If not, then you definitely need to check it out.  I've expressed how easy it is to get started and how they offer all the tools to help you succeed.  Low prices, business management help, and online help are just a few of the services provided, but I would say that the best part of it all is the way they make you feel secure.  They are willing to address issues such as the specialty merchandise corporation complaints that they receive.  Most companies would hide their complaints and show only all the positive responses and reviews.  So for a company to expose themselves and say, hey we're not perfect this may not be for everybody and we're letting you know about it, is simply awesome.  It makes me feel like you are working with people as opposed to a bureaucracy.

If you have any questions as to how SMC, specialty merchandise corporation, works, you can always check out their website or reviews from their customers.  Many have strong testimonies that state that they had little to no online business experience but with the free help from SMC, they were able to make their dream of being their own boss a reality.   Feel free to check it out.  There have been many SMC money makers out there and after reading their story, you know that an average Joe such as yourself can make it too.  Go online, read up on reviews, check out their products.  You'll see that you'll definitely find positive words to describe SMC and once you've had a chance to review their products, you'll find something that you'll want to have in your store.  Later!

Motivational Monday (on Tuesday) - Depression

Maybe he's losing his religion? lol

Battling Depression

Hey there.  You know, I've been in a funk recently.  It's even been suggested that I may have some sort of depression.  Me?  The clown that likes to make not so funny jokes, sarcastic remakes, while dancing the robot?  Wow.  Didn't know that could happen.  Nevertheless, I took initiative and started to look into some of the treatments for depression.  What I found out about the disease (because it is a disease) is that it can strike anyone, even those that look happy on the outside but are depressed on the inside.  After speaking with a few friends that have dealt with some sort of depression at one point, suggested I look to buy Pristiq.

I'll admit that I never heard of it before but since I value this person's opinion, I had to check it out.  I looked for it online and sought out the pros and cons.  A big pro was that it can be bought online.  Which is great for those of us that want to be discrete about it.  Using an online pharmacy can give you that added privacy, but you need to be careful because I'm sure that the online pharmacy that can offer you drugs without a prescription is not trustworthy.  Even the Pristiq website warns you of those looking to make a buck and will offer you a way to buy cheap Pristiq through a trusted online pharmacy.  I love that their website is open about getting you the help you need, even by helping you find the generic Pristiq for those of us that are strapped for cash.

I didn't think that depression could happen to me.  I'm still not 100% that it's there.  The only way to know for sure is to get a doctor and get checked out.  And when that time comes, make sure to ask about Pristiq.  It's better to get that information from a doctor than an online blogger.  Take care, friends.  Later!

The Real Man's Best Friend

My Duff, how I love you.  Err.... I mean dear... yeah.... dear... 

Do Your Hosting HW with Web Hosting Geeks

Hey there friends.  You know, when I was searching for a domain name, I also went on the hunt to find a good web host for my blog.  Most you know that I already have a difficult time with change but the domain one was an easy choice.  Metallmans-reverie.blogspot.com  Really?  That's too long and there's a hyphen in there.  I needed something quick and easy.  Metallman.com was available and I jumped on it.  Then it was time for the web host.

I went through many a web hosting directory and I couldn't find what I was looking for.  A great rating system, easy pricing guide, features, etc. etc.  Not until I found the Web Hosting Geeks site that I was satisfied with a directory that showed everything that I needed to make a wise decision.  Just take a look at this Fat Cow review.  It has everything you need in a very organized star rating system to assist in your web hosting decision.

As for me, I'm still being hosted by Blogger.  The domain change was an easy decision... the web hosting, not so much.  I've gotten used to the layout and how Blogger works that jumping ship may make it difficult for me to learn how to use and get accustomed to a new host and layout.  Then again, I might do something crazy one day and just do it.  If that day were to happen, at least I'd know where to look to make sure I don't make a dumb mistake and over pay for web hosting!  lol  Later!

Spanking the Wife, Now and Forever

Not even death can stop their S&M fun time

The Mortal Kombat Ressurection

Hey there.  Remember back in the day when Mortal Kombat first came out? It was supposed to be a more gruesome version of the Street Fighter phenomenon.  And for a while, it looked like it was going to take over the world.  A few stale sequels and an awful movie (or two) later, the franchise seemed to be on it's last legs.

Motivational Monday (On Wednesday) - Shoryuken

Not even Willy could jump high enough to avoid it

May Start Looking at Voice Over Work

Hey there.  I've been in a slight funk as of late and I think I may have sound something that may snap me out of it.  I want to be a cartoon character!  Well, not literally, but I think I would like to do some voice over work.  I have been doing voices for years now and the kids get a laugh out of the many voices that I have done.  The wife gets embarrassed by them (naturally) and I think I might have the talent to do some voice over work for myself, or a small company.  Considering that I have no prior experience in it, I'll more than likely have to do something original just to get my voice out there.

I have a few ideas as to what I would like to do.  It's going to be an original web comic with voice work.  I figured that a little something different would be good and I'm leaning more towards the genre of comedy.  I'm not a great comic creator so it's going to take some time before I will have any up.  I don't think I can afford to have a Los Angeles video production make them for me.  Unless, investors want to pitch in for some professional work.  lol 

I have a small group of friends that have committed to work on this.  Maybe we'll be able get a few comics in and act them ou.  I think we all have our unique set of voices that will make it entertaining and fun. It's not going to be easy, but one of the perks would be that we can send our takes via Email for others to listen in if by chance we can't all be in the room together. It might not be the best of circumstances, but at least we can get this off the ground.  I'm excited about it.  Now, it's time to get this baby started!  Later!

Request Your Information Packet and Received a Free Belly Bag from Cryo-Cell

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of CryoCell International for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
 
Hey there friends.  Are you loving people that are about to embark in the adventure called parenthood?  If so, you know that they are many doctor visits for the well being of both mother and baby.  But have you discussed the possibility of storing your baby's chord blood?  It's not something that you have to do but it is something worth considering.  If you are uninformed about the process of storing chord blood, request a free information packet from www.Cryo-Cell.net and receive a free belly bag.

www.Cryo-Cell.com is one of the top leaders in chord blood banking.  It's not a decision that should be taken lightly and definitely one that you and your partner should talk over.  If you decide that banking your baby's blood is something you want to do, head over to Cryo-Cell and read up on the pros of the procedure.  Even if you're unsure about the whole thing, you can request an information packet, keep your free bag, and be more informed on the pros of banking your baby's chord blood.

When you're baby is born, you will care for your baby like it's the most important thing in you world.  You will support your baby, love love your baby, insure your baby.  Why not add a little more security by investing in banking your baby's blood.  It may be the best decision you make.  Later!

Excuse Me?

Four guys are walking down the street.  A Saudi, a Russian, a north Korean, and a New Yorker.  A reporter runs up to them and asks, "Excuse me, what is your opinion about the meat shortage?"
The Saudi says, "Excuse me, what's a shortage?"
The Russian says, "Excuse me, what's a meat?"
The north Korean says, "Excuse me, what's opinion?"
The New Yorker says, "Excuse me?  What's excuse me?"

Happy St. Patrick's Day

I'd tell you Stewie... but I'd be lying.  HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Using ActivityTree.com to Get Kids Active

Hey there.  You know, I've been on a mission to better myself and as I browse the internet to find ways to be more active, I realized that I should get the kids to be a little more active too.  My wife and I have noticed that the kids are not playing outside as much as they should be.  The oldest is sitting in front of the XBOX, the girls are too busy looking at themselves in the mirror, and the baby... well... he's a toddler now, but you know they're like a walking tornado at times so they get their exercise.  lmao

Anyways, I looking to see if maybe I could find some kind of classes and camps where the kids can be more productive with their time.  Whether it be a sport, music lessons, or overall confidence boosting experiences.  That's when I stumbled across ActivityTree.com.  They have a huge listing of activity providers, camps, or preschools to get young ones more involved in better themselves.  You simply enter your zip code and the site will search your area for nearby activity providers such as a YMCA.  It's perfect to get the kids up and learning a new sport or skill.

Another awesome aspect of ActivityTree.com is their Kids Scholarship program.  Every 3 months, they provide $100 to a lucky winner to keep their kids active.  You can earn an entry to win by filling out a small and simple form and stating how you would use the money to keep your kids active.  Piano lessons, swimming lessons, basketball fees... you can use the money for whatever it takes to keep kids active.

Check out the site, friends.  It's good to know where you can stop by for some fun activities with the kids.  Especially if you're a stay at home mom or dad.  Once the kids are off from school (or don't attend school yet), you can check out the website and schedule a fun day.  You can also be a part of the Get Kids Active!  Facebook Campaign and get tips on how to get kids active via their facebook page.  It's an awesome site and one that you should definitely bookmark.  Have fun!  Later!

Working Out for a Better Me - Week ???

Hey there. I'm supposed to be on a mission to better myself and my health. For the first month or so, I saw some gains in my arms and chest and losses on my waist. Now... I said it was going to be semi-serious and this is why... I haven't been to the gym in like 2 weeks. lol Yup, it's been that long and it doesn't help when I'm chowing down on a bag of cookies or stuffing my face with ice cream for a midnight snack. Now, here's my philosophy when it comes to dieting... Men don't diet. It's as simple as that. I don't see why we would have to diet. In my honest opinion, we just eat less of what we want. Instead of 4 slices of pizza, go with 3, pass on the ranch when you're chowing down on your fries, and when ordering your super omega too big to hold with one hand ultimate cheeseburger, go with medium fries and drink as opposed to large. lol Yeah, that's how I see it.

What are you looking at?!  I'm NOT sharing!

Now, the wife hates this philosophy. As I'm chowing down on cookies, she's chewing on baby carrots and I can see the jealousy and disbelief that is emanating from her eyes. lol One of her favorite commercials that used to run on TV was for some stuff you would add to your water to help lose weight. What's the name of it... Let me find it on Youtube. Slimquick! There it is.

Pretty hilarious, no? There's a few different commercial for this stuff and some are pretty funny.  She'll laugh and say things like, it's sooooo true! lol  It's just not very hard for a man to lose weight, I guess.  I've been thin for most of my life and now that I actually have some weight on me, I'm not so sure that I want it off.  But then again, I don't want to be huffing and puffing while doing extra curricular activities.  I need to get back on the ball and get back to the gym.  I knew this was gonna happen, though.  That's why I didn't say this would be "super serious" workout sessions.  lol  I'll keep you posted.  Later!

March 2011Give-a-way: Marvel Super Hero Squad (Wii)

Hey there friends.  Here is the item up for grabs: 

How do you win this awesome game for the Wii?  Here are the rules:

Open to US and Canadian friends only.  Give-a-way will run from the 15th of the month until the end of the month.  The winner will be announced shortly after the give-a-way ends.

Earn entries by:

Comment on the post of the giveaway (+1 entry)
Share on Facebook (+3 entries)
Share on Twitter (+3 entries)
Share on Google Buzz (+3 entries)
Subscribe to my feed (+5 entries)

Are you a fan of the Marvel Comic super heroes?  This would be a great addition to your video game library.  Get your entries in today and score your free copy of this game!  Good luck!  Later!

Update:

Thanks for all the comments, guys! Looks like I'm getting a good turn out. FYI: You do not need to leave your Email address in the comment. I will announce the winner and then the winner can contact me via Email. Also, if you share on Google Buzz, Twitter, or Facebook, leave a comment advising so that I can check it out and give add your additional entries. I know that a few of you have shared and I've have given you the entries. I guess I should have been more clear on that. Thanks!

Tron Legacy Movie

Guest post by Gerard Mcdaniel

Even if I know nothing about a movie's plot, if I see that it's going to have stunning visual effects I want to see it. I'm such a sucker for that. That's why I went and saw Avatar and Inception. The first didn't have much to offer besides the effects, but the second was really amazing overall. So I went to go and see Tron Legacy even though I had never seen the original before.

Which in one of the reviews that I read about the new Tron movie it said that you don't really need to see the original to get what's going on in the new one. While I was reading that review I actually ran across the website www.satellitestarinternet.com/hughesnet_plans_pricing.html and gave it a good read through. After that I decided to sign up for that internet service for my home internet access.

I really loved the Tron Legacy movie. I was just awe struck by all of the visuals that sometimes I wasn't even paying attention to the plot. It sure didn't hurt that Daft Punk did an amazing soundtrack for it too.

Monthly Tech Stuff Giveaway is Here

Hey there.  So I mentioned in an earlier post that I was going to do a give a away for you guys since I am now venturing on my 4th year of blogging and I have just come up with an idea.  Believe it or not, the local Target has some awesome stuff on clearance ALL THE TIME in the electronic section.  I always snoop around the games and what not to see if there is something that catches my eye.  Just this weekend, I saw a stack of PS2 bundled with the game Toy Story 3 on clearance for like $80.  PS2 on clearance!  I couldn't believe it.

So I have decided.  I'm going to pick out an item from that clearance section every month (around the 15th or so) and give that item away to you, my readers!  Who knows what it'll be.  An iPod case?  CD?  DVD?  Headphones? A game?  Game console?  Blu-ray player?  Who knows.  I just know that I'll stop by and pick something up and display it here as the item of the month to win.  Rules?  Here goes:

Open to US and Canadian friends only.  Give-a-way will run from the 15th of the month until the end of the month.  The winner will be announced shortly after the give-a-way ends.

Earn entries by:

Comment on the post of the giveaway (+1 entry)
Share on Facebook (+3 entries)
Share on Twitter (+3 entries)
Share on Google Buzz (+3 entries)
Subscribe to my feed (+5 entries)

I think that should do it, no?  If sharing on FB, Twitter or Google Buzz, please advise via comment so that I can verify.  Info will be displayed via sticky post linking to the original post until the end of the give-a-way.  Once all entries are in, I'll select a random winner using random.org and contact them for shipping instructions. 

Thanks for hanging around for 3 years!  Now, you shall be rewarded with random stuff on a monthly basis!  lmao  Stay tuned for the first item up for grabs!  Later!

Classics V. Technology

Hey there.  You know, I was thinking about nature and what not and have decided that I want to start hiking.  Maybe even write about what I see and do while out and about with the family.  The problem?  If you don't have tough, rugged equipment, you will find your stuff torn by the elements.  Rocks, branches, brush... they will all nip and tear at your bags and what not.  I was telling myself that if I were to play a Henry David Thoreau type person, I would need my laptop to write about nature.  Hey, it's the 21th century.  lol  While Mr. Thoreau may have used ink and quills, I'm using a laptop.  Just at a glance, I would need a laptop messenger bag that is built for the elements. Something that will stand against nature or at least give my laptop a fighting chance of surviving.  How else am I going to write the next Walden without my laptop?

I've been on a mission recently to read more literary classics.  So far, I've read Catcher in the Rye and Siddhartha.  While more books are coming my way, I started to think how these classics would be written today.  Going back to Thoreau's Walden, I don't think we would be able to create such a masterpiece of solitude today.  There is technology everywhere.  Cell phones, laptops, smartphones, tablets...  Pen and paper have been replaced with keyboards and software.  Would Sheldon be so full of angst if he could take it out on a game of Angry Birds?  Would Siddhartha use GPS tracking to navigate through the jungles to find himself and total bliss? 

It's awesome that tales from the past rely heavily on the art of story telling.  So while I'm trekking across rugged terrain, I can stop, look at my kindle and read up on some classics.  What books do you recommend?  There are still a few that I would like to own, like Billy Budd.  It's a short story but a good one nonetheless.  Later!

Happy Blogaversary - 3 Years Completed. Year 4... COMMENCE

Hey there friends.  3 years are in the books.  3 full years as a blogger.  Wow!  Actually, the anniversary was yesterday, March 13th, but I didn't have time to post something then. I do want to let you know that I am planning a give a way this month.  I'm leaning towards shipping out a video game to one my readers in the states.  I'm not sure which one, but stay tuned and find out which one.  Also, I wanted to "come out" on that day.  No, not like that.  But come out in the way were I can no longer stay "anonymous".  It's kind of pointless now.  For those that are new to the site, you simply know me as "Metallman", a moniker that has been with me for well over a decade now.  For those of you know that have come to know me beyond the site, know me as Victor, or Vic. 

You know, when I first started this blog, I figured that I would be another random voice in a sea of tech.  I've learned the names of friends while others stayed in their online persona.  Now, with Twitter, Facebook, and what not... it's more and more difficult to keep that online persona a secret so instead of keeping that charade going, I'd figure I'd just come out and say it.  My name is Victor Salazar and I live in Southern California. 

I'll admit that I was pushed to come out by another blog that I frequently visit.  When I stopped at the "About me" section of it, I noticed that this "Cheap and Geeky" friend used an online moniker but then decided against it.  I told myself that it would be harder to stay anonymous than to get personal with your readers and that was when I decided that I should just lay it out there. 

I am not only Metallman online and I am not only Victor everywhere else.  I am both so I don't mind either one.  So how do you feel about the whole "coming out" thing?  Is it something that you would feel comfortable doing or something that you would still like to keep to yourself?  I'm curious to know if you've come out already, plan to come out any time soon, or stay anonymous.  I'd love to know if there were any changes that you've made over if you did come out.  Share your experiences, friends.  Later!

I swear I had this conversation with a blogging buddy once

Get Your DD214 Forms Online

Hey there friends.  I recently posted about obtaining a VA Home Loan if you have served in the military.  Though I provided some pretty useful information, I was asked what could be done if they have no received their DD214 forms or if they have misplaced them.  You need your DD214 forms to determine your eligibility so it's important that you hold on them.  But if you whatever reason you don't have them, here's how you can obtain them.

Getting your DD214 forms online is extremely easy.  Using the DD214 express service from the link that I have provided, you simply fill out the request to have the forms and send them in.  If you have a fax number, you can request duplicate forms using the VA fax on demand system.  Dial 301-837-0990 from a fax machine and follow the directions.  It really is that easy.  If you already have a home loan, no problem.  You can still take advantage of the awesome VA refinance rates available to you.  BUT YOU MUST HAVE YOUR DD214 FORMS.

If you're in the military, you should definitely take advantage of the options available.  There is no excuse as to why you shouldn't.  These programs are there to help and by not taking advantage, you're just making it difficult on yourself.  Do yourself and your family a favor and look into these option.  You'll be glad you did.  Later!

My Brother in Law is Getting Married Today

Hey there.  Today, my brother in law is getting married.  Congrats to my other little brother!  He and his GF have decided to tie the knot and the after party is going to be in our place.  We've spent a lot of time decorating the back yard and prepping it for 100 guests or so.  The only thing missing are the centerpieces, which he's picking up right now, and will be heading over here to place them on the tables.  Check it out:

Not too bad, right?  The wife is getting the girls ready right now.  We have approx. 3 hours before we're off to meet with the in laws.  This is where it's a huge advantage to being a man.  I can get ready in about 15 mins or so.  lol  I guess breakfast and baby watching will fall on me this morning while the wife is curling up the girls' and her hair.  I'll catch up with you guys post ceremony.  Later!

Update:

Just as I was finishing this post, my brother in law came with the centerpieces.  They definitely add some color to the tables and look pretty damn nice.  Check it out.

What a difference a few centerpieces can make, huh.  Later!

Converting DVDs with ImTOO DVD Ripper

Hey there.  Once of the most difficult things to find is a reliable converter.  Whether it be mobile video to .mpeg, DVD to .avi, or .mp4 to .flv.  There are so many video formats that it's impossible to find one that will work with what you're trying to do.  But alas, there is one that works great for DVDs.  ImTOO DVD Ripper is a great tool to use when using DVDs to create original works.  Most of us own digital camcorders and converting those mini DVDs into other formats can be a pain.  With this software, you can easily cut, edit, or convert the whole DVD into multiple formats to accommodate your needs. 

Imagine wanting to create a custom made video for a special event, say a wedding.  You can use this tool to cut and paste DVD video into one, while being able to add cool effects, subtitles, take only a snapshot, take audio cuts, and much more.  You can definitely make this your own special project and and create a professional looking video with the use of this DVD Ripper.  Here are some of the main features:

• Mac DVD ripper for video - rip DVD to videos
• DVD ripper for audio - rip DVD to audios
• DVD image capture - DVD to pictures
• Magic video editor - crop/subtitle/effect/watermark
• Free sewer - clip, split and merge     

The DVD ripper is available for PC but they also have the DVD Ripper Mac which is designed to work on all Mac computers.  If you're serious about creating original web videos or quality presentations for special events, this is definitely something you should check out.  It'll save you the trouble of having several programs opened at once to create a great video which this lone program could do.  Check it out, friend.  Later!

Metallman's Reverie: Blog Income for February 2011

Hey there.  February is in the the books and it's time to report on how well on (or off) pace we are in reaching my $1700 goal for the year. Let's take a look at the numbers:


Yahoo Contributor Network - $1.85
CMFAds - $2.25
MyLikes - $5.84
DragonBlogger.com - $17.00
Sponsored Tweets - $25.25
Blogsvertise - $64.00 
Total for Feb- $116.19
YTD Total - $352.02 (+$68.69 ahead of pace)

Not too bad.  I failed to meet the minimum of $141.66 this month but my good January definitely carried me into the plus side this month.  I am trying some new things to see if they'll increase traffic and income and I was pleasantly surprised that I received a payment from YCN.  They'll pay based on impressions so for every 1000 page veiws, you'll get paid $1.50.  I have not been as active as I would like but it's nice to know that someone out there is still reading some of the articles I published there.  I also received payment for my work on Dragon Blogger.  My first payment there and I'm hoping that more will follow.

Overall, a solid month.  I fell short by only $25 so that's not too bad.  I'm trying things out and doing well in the online community.  If you believe that you're ready to try out some of online services that I use, check out the links above.  Tell them that Metallman sent you.  lol  Best of luck!  Later!

Zumba Fitness Review on Dragon Blogger

Hey there.  Check out my review of Zumba Fitness for the Wii on Dragon Blogger.  Read the review here and let me know what you guys think.  Thanks!

Thinking About Getting a New Pool

Hey there.  A wonderful perk about living in Southern California is the weather.  It's usually sunny, warm and overall very pleasant.  We don't deal with severe cold winds (though you would never have guessed that with last night's winds...), blizzards, and all things cold so it's usually grilling and pool weather all year long.  We already have a grill and pool.  Not any fancy schmancy ones, but they definitely get the job done.  But what has crossed my mind is maybe getting a built in pool set up in my back yard.  Here's my back yard:

There definitely is space here for a pool.  It's just a matter of whether it's worth it or not.  We have one of those inflatable pools that is pretty sizable.  Not monstrous but a good 8 feet in diameter and about 3 feet deep or so but it's a pain to set up and put away.  Putting it away is the worst!  You can NEVER fold it the way it came packaged.  NEVER!  So it never fits all nice and snug in the box so you can't neatly set it aside.  It's a bulging mess and once frustration hits, it's just tossed in a corner of the shed. 

Having a built in pool will definitely fit that.  But then new issues come up.  Cost and maintenance are the big ones.  Will it cost me a fortune.  It needs plumbing, it needs water, it needs a filter (maybe one of those automatic pool cleaners), it will need a cover, it will need a fence, etc. etc. Especially now, that I have a very curious and adventurous 1 year old roaming the yard, I don't want to risk my boy falling into the pool.  I'm just so iffy on it.  The older kids would love one, the wife always mentioned that we COULD have one but in the end, I'm the one that usually shoots the idea down.  What do you think?  Take the plunge and build one or be on the safe side and stick to the more affordable build it yourself pools?  Let me hear your thoughts.  Until then...  Later!

There's No Room for Crying in the NBA LeBron!

Hey there.  If you're a NBA fan, you've heard by now how the Miami Heat, once again, collapsed under the pressure and loss a meaningful game against the Bulls last Sunday.  Why is this a big deal?  Because the Heat, dubbed "The Super Team", consists of NBA All Stars Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh, were celebrating like they have won the championship before they ever stepped foot on the court and they are losing against the best in the NBA.  According to some stats that have been floating around, the Heat are something like 1-9 against the NBA's elite.  Their only win coming against the LA Lakers.  They have yet to beat the Celtics, The Magic, The Spurs, The Bulls, or the Mavericks.  And this is supposed to be the team that was going to the challenge the NBA record of 73 wins in a season.  They have 43 wins now and I don't see them cracking 55.

Now, back to this weekend.  In a game where the Heat claimed they had to win, they loss, yet again.  They were up by more than 10 points during the game.  Wade and LeBron looked good in the first half.  All they had to do was maintain their lead in that 4th qtr and they'd come out with that victory, but again, missed shots by Wade, missed shots by LeBron, stupid fouls by the Heat, kept the Bulls in the game.  The Bulls are an awesome team.  They're second in the East so they're no pushover, but with the Heat down by 1 and with Wade and LeBron on your side, you should be able to make shots in the clutch.  They have yet to have a single game winning shot this season.  The so called super team cannot muster a single win on a last second shot.  After the game, their coach claimed that some of the Heat players were crying.

Now this is where I have a problem.  There is no room for crying in the NBA.  If you are crying, they are tears of joy after winning the NBA championship, NOT after a loss during the regular season.  There is absolutely no reason to cry.  And I'm looking at you, LeBron.  What's wrong?  You're realizing that you're not as good as Kobe or MJ?  You can't carry your team, or should I say Dwayne Wade's team, over a quality win?  You're realizing that "The Decision", the prancing around, and the guarantees of championships were stupid moves made by you and the team?  Grow up, man.  You're a great player, no doubt about it, but you have made some pretty stupid moves this year and many of the fans that have become "witnesses" are now witnessing your flaws.  You couldn't do it in Cleveland being the man, now I believe you are realizing that you can't do it being a wing man.  You force bad shots at the end of games trying to be the hero.

Now, I'm a Lakers fan.  Always will be.  But I'm also a fan of the game.  I'll watch the east powerhouses go at it so that I can see an entertaining game.  I'll watch our western conference foes play against each other to better assess our competition.  But when I hear a team chirping away that they're the best before even playing a game, it insults the intelligence of us fans.  We know that it takes more than just talent to win (eg. Malone, Payton, Bryant, Shaq Laker team...).  You need chemistry and you need an identity.  Right now, the Heat have no identity and they have shown flashes of some chemistry, but nothing that can say this is a championship caliber team.  Time is running out.  If they cannot get it together before the playoffs start, they will be bounced from the playoffs in the first or second round.  Then, LeBron, you'll have a real reason to cry.  Later!

Motivational Monday - Disappointment

Sometimes, it's all you have.

US Military Loans

Hey there.  I have a few friends over in the military and one of the great benefits, aside from serving our country, is all the great programs that help their families.  Whether it be grants, benefits, or loans.  One branch of the military, United States Marine Corps, have such great programs and if you or your loved one is in the military, you must take a look at the VA purchase options that offer awesome rates for home purchases.

It's part of the American dream to own a home, but let's be honest with ourselves.  Buying a home while serving your country is not easy on your own.  This is why these great programs were created, to offer help to those that decide to help their country.  They'll provide loans to those enlisted and their rates will be some of the lowest you'll find.  But what if you already obtained a mortgage before you enlisted?  You can still take advantage of the low VA refinance rates that are available.  Either way, you're in prime position to save money and buy that dream house for your family.

Don't just be a hero to your country, be a hero to your wallet as well.  Take advantage of the great programs readily available to you, our troops, and continue to be proud of being an American.  Later!

Zombie Jesus

Free wine!

57 Days

3 blondes walk into a bar with huge smiles across their faces.  One of the women yells to the bartender to line up a row of drinks for the three of them.  They lift up the glasses and toast, "Here's to 57 days!" and they down their drinks and high five each other.  Again, they ask the barkeep to line em up and again they toast to 57 days and continue to celebrate.

After their 4th drink, the barkeep asks the ladies, "Congrats, ladies.  You ladies are definitely celebrating but I must ask, why 57 days?"

One the ladies, with a huge smile on her face, turns towards the barkeep and says, "We just finished a jigsaw puzzle!  On the box, it recommended '2-4 years' but we finished it only 57 days!"

How I Dance

This may be true for a lot of people... but not this guy!

Pro Drums for Rock Band 3

Hey there.  Since I am looking for new and alternate ways to workout, does anyone want to buy these for me?  lol  I know for a fact that it's a killer work out once you get to the Hard and Expert levels.  I'm never tried the pro mode before though but looking at Travis Barker, I'm sure that drumming keeps you slim.  lol  Later!

If there is anything plastic that I want to bang, this is it.  lol

Start Your Own Business with SMC

Hey there.  You know, I just dawned on me that being your own boss should be the goal of every man.  Now, I don't mean man as in men, but man as in mankind.  When you take control of your business, you own profits, your own growing pains, you learn the true value of money as well as how to run a business.  Not all of us will be successful, but you'll never know unless you try.  This is why I love that SMC (Specialty Merchandise Corporation) is allowing you to be your own boss. 

They  have been around for over 50 years and have helped many realize their dreams of owning a private business.  So how does it work?  Simple, you buy products from SMC at a low, low, price and you in turn sell those goods in your store, online shop, or private business.  And their selection of goods is huge.  Anything from garden to toys to home decorations.  And the best part is that you don't have to drive around to get to work.  Work can be anywhere you want it to be.  No more traffic, no more stubborn bosses, no more annoying coworkers.  It's you, and you're business savvy, working directly with potential customers.  And if you don't think you can do it alone, no worries.  SMC also offers business coaching for new business owners, and guess what... IT'S FREE for the first few weeks.  Just enough help to get you motivated and confident that you can run your business.

Now, many people will digress and say that this is nothing but a scam.  Many have filed SMC complaints and SMC addresses the complaints head on.  You have to admire and respect a company that listens when people are not happy.  In my opinion, when I through the complaints, I noticed that the people that were complaining had failing businesses and to be honest with you, you really can't put that on SMC.  It's human nature to place the blame on someone or something then we fail.  But on the other side of the coin, there are those that have had huge success using SMC.  If you're still iffy on the whole thing, feel free to read this SMC review to get a better understanding of how it works.  There are many SMC money makers out there.  If you're willing to take that leap into being your own boss, do it with a company that has your back and will guide you through it.  It's better to have someone by your side to guide you, then to jump head first.  Later!

Working Out for a Better Me - Week 3 & 4

Hey there.  I missed last week's post.  I just got caught up with stuff and it slipped my mind to post my stats.  No worries though.  I did write them down so I'll be sharing both week 3 & 4 results here.  The numbers in parenthesis is the change from the previous week.  Some of the numbers are a little surprising.  Let's get to the stats.

Week 3

Height: 5'8''
Weight: 170 lbs (+1 lbs)
Waist: 36 1/2 inches (no change)
Chest: 42 1/2 inches (+1 inch)
Left Bicept: 13 1/2 inches (+1/4 inch)
Right Bicept: 13 3/4 inches (+1/4 inch)

I was pretty happy with the small increase in bicep circumference.  I figured that there is where the noticeable changes will occur.   The 1 inch increase in my chest was a little of a surprise.  I incorporated butterflies and didn't think it would show results so quickly.

Week 4

Height: 5'8''
Weight: 173 lbs (+3 lbs)
Waist: 36 inches (-1/2 inch)
Chest: 43 inches (+1/2 inch)
Left Bicept: 13 1/2 inches (no change)
Right Bicept: 14 inches (+1/4 inch)

The number that surprised me here is the +3 lbs in my weight.  Is it muscle?  Or is it the ice cream, cupcake, twinkie, and cookie snacks right around midnight?  Who knows.  lol  But my  conscience says it's muscle so I'm sticking to it.  lol  Another thing I may need to start paying attention to is my arm size.  Now, it's been a modest gain and I'm sure it's not even noticeable, but I do want both my arms to be the same size and as of right now, there is a half inch difference.  Either my right arm is compensating for my left arm during exercises or my form is still not perfect.  I'll be doing single dumbbells going forward.  At least until they're the same size.

So there you have it.  What's new in the routine?  I started using this thing called an ab roller.  It's pretty weird but you do feel the pain... the next day.  I'm not sure if that had anything to do with the waist size going down.  I also started doing a modest 50 - 60 push ups every night before going to bed.  I'm usually tired by the end of the night so in my opinion it makes my arms work harder to lift me off the floor.  I'm not feeling as short of breath as before so that's a huge plus.  No more huffing and puffing for me when going up stairs!  lol  Starting this week, I'm going to start up with TaeBo again.  I have a 40 min workout on my Xbox 360 that I need to start doing again.  For all the crap exercise videos get, I love TaeBo.  I think it's old school and since it incorporates some kick boxing techniques, it makes me feel like such a hard ass when done.  lol  I tried doing it the first week of working out and I damn near passed out because of my poor conditioning.  I wonder how well I do this time around.  Until then, keep fit.  Later!

Teen Mom: Some Thoughts

Hey there.  I was watching Teen Mom last night with the wife and I noticed the disclaimer right before the show stating something along the lines of teen pregnancy being 100% preventable.  There is this one couple on the show that smoke pot.  Now, I'm thinking to myself, they're underage, smoking pot is illegal (it wasn't for medicinal purposes, that's for sure) and they're filming and talking about it and broadcasting it on TV.  Am I missing something here?  The girl has a child and she's smoking pot to "get away".  Now, I understand that it's nowhere near the level of teen cocaine addiction, but don't you think that someone at MTV should be telling this girl that she may need help?  Her mother has custody of the girl's child, the girl has nowhere to stay, and it turns out that both her and her boyfriend smoke pot on a regular basis.  It's safe to say that the girl's family life is in shambles.

At the end of the season, Dr. Drew has a reunion type show with all the mothers and follows up on how their lives have changed since the show.  Dr. Drew is awesome.  He has his own show on MTV, Celebrity rehab with Dr. Drew.  Some of the testimonials that come out of that show are amazing.  These are spoiled celebrities who can be stubborn and if they make it through the show, express nothing but sincere gratitude to Dr. Drew.  But he doesn't just deal with adult treatments, he also specializes in teen addictions and helps with all sort of treatments such as teen cocaine treatment.  Anyways, I like how he gives them guidance on how to move forward depending on their situation.  What I don't like about the show is that there even is a show about it. 

I understand that teen pregnancies happen.  Hell, I was a father in my teens.  But MTV and other networks shouldn't be glamorizing it.  I think I read somewhere that one of the mom's on this show said she was a role model.  No she's not.  It's difficult as it is to be a parent, let alone do it while still in high school, without a job, and without family support.  It's tough and I think it sucks that shows like this potentially add to the notion that if you do get pregnant at an early age, they can be on TV.  In my opinion, if you're about to have a baby and you don't have the slightest clue on what you're going to do, the last thing that should be crossing your mind is to be on TV.  

I understand that some TV is meant for entertainment purposes.  I get the extreme stuff, the fashion stuff, the crazy stuff, but I don't get the teen pregnancy one.  Tell me again why people would care to watch a child raise another?  If it's a documentary or a movie, I can see the appeal, but this is a TV show that is meant to entertain the young demographic that MTV caters too.  And let's be real, here.  This is NOT a reality show.  The pregnancy is real, but when you're getting paid a 6 figure salary, see previous teen mom train wreck Amber, there is no way that MTV is not staging some of the stuff on the show.  If you want to watch for entertainment purposes, by all means go for it, but don't believe that the "stories" and "drama" behind it are real.  Later!

What's Going On

Hey there.  March 1st, that's today.  It is exactly 12 days away from finishing my 3rd year of blogging.  I can't believe that it's been close to 3 full years already!  I  was thinking of maybe doing some kind of give a away.  Maybe a game?  Maybe some cash?  Maybe some kind of prize?  I don't know just yet.  I've been thinking about it, I've just haven't decided what it will be.  Any suggestions?

Best workstation ever!

On a side note, I just wanted to fill you guys in and what's been going down on my side of computer.  My geek side has been pretty busy.  I unlocked my cousin's iPhone last night, I am working on fixing 2 more PS3s, and I have an XBOX 360 coming my way later tonight for me to take a look at.  I'm sure my wife is not thrilled about it.  I'm one those people that gets a little geeked out by this kinda stuff and will spend hours non stop working on all things tech. My wife made a comment to my cousin and his wife how she should dress up as some broken tech device so that I would pay attention to her.  lol 

Things on the blogging side have been going well.  Just not as well as I would like.  I managed to get the computer at home working but I haven't been working much at home.  My time online has been tight and I manage to churn out a post or two.  I need to get on the ball with that and spend some more leisure time on improving my online stats.  I've also made a conscience effort to provide more comments on blogs.  I've been horrible at letting know that I've stopped by so that's being improved upon.

Midnight snacks are the best!

Working out has been good to me, I guess.  I missed my exercise check in last week (damn time restrictions) so I'll make sure that I have one in this week.  Most likely be done tomorrow or Thursday.  I don't feel as winded as I have before and the wife says that there is some subtle differences in my body.  But, I don't know if I'm helping the cause by having ice cream at midnight.  lol

I also had a so called "man date" this Saturday with the compadre and a friend.  That adventure will be detailed in an upcoming post.  lol 

I know I'm forgetting some stuff but I'm sure that'll just come to me later.  So what's going on with you, friends?  What's new in the life of you?  Hope to hear from you soon.  Later!