June 19, 2013

New Laptop Computer

Back on January 11th of this year, I wrote a blog entitled Laptop Computers.  In that blog I indicated that I was in search of a new laptop.  I must say, I was humbled by the number of responses to my rickmayhew@hotmail.com account that I received from well-wishers and sound advisors.  I especially appreciated one person’s advice as to how to purchase a viable used laptop (I should have followed his advice).

I ended up purchasing a new laptop.  Now before I go any further, the words of wisdom from my mother who is no longer with us, has been banging around in my brain ever since I decided to write this piece.  She was the first one I ever heard say, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.”

With sound advice like that, let me begin by letting everyone know how I truly do like my new laptop…however, the fact that I needed customer service the very first day I attempted to power-up, was a disaster.  I spent over an hour on the phone only to hear the buzzing sound of a dead phone line twice.  Then, at the end of my conversation with at least the sixth person I spoke with, I was informed there was nothing they could do unless I wanted to purchase a better service contract for my laptop.

Well fortunately I have a friend who is an IT expert and he was able to solve the problem after about four hours of trial and error.  The good news is that my laptop works great now.  It’s everything I was hoping for in a laptop. 

On a different note and in conjunction with my previous blog from January 11th, if you are wondering how many times I used the word laptop in this blog?  The answer is 9 times…one shy of the previous record.

 

Available In Paperback

I walked into the bookstore at church the other day and saw my fiction book, Donovan’s Law, being displayed in paperback form on the bookshelf for all to see.  At first I was shocked! I then had to walk closer due to my 50 year old eyes and all, to see if that was really my book.  My next feeling was fear, because now everyone on campus is going to know I wrote a book…could be good or bad.  Finally, I became overwhelmed with a humbled feeling and the first two emotions evaporated.

I was humbled because I quickly realized that once again, this book is on the shelf not because of anything I did or said, but something God placed in someone’s heart.  My entire book writing journey has been that way. From the time I conceived the idea for the book to this most recent honor, God has truly guided this process.

Most importantly, I would like to use this blog to say, “Thank You!” to all my family and friends who have taken the time to support this experience.  I would also like to use this blog to say, “Thank You!” to all of the readers who have emailed me your comments at rickmayhew@hotmail.com and left reviews with Amazon.com or Christianbook.com after you read the book.  If my publisher at www.oaktara.com decide they want to publish a sequel, your feedback will come in handy as I finalize the development of the storyline and characters.  So once again allow me to thank each of you for your kindness and support…Colossians 3:23.

Laptop Computers

In the age where social media has become the mainstay for daily communications, I have decided to begin my search for the perfect laptop computer.  I’m looking for a laptop that is powerful, easy to use, and not too expensive.  Is that going to be too much to ask for? I know there are iPhones and Smartphones out there that can take the place of a laptop, but I like my laptop.  I use my laptop for writing, checking emails and Facebook, and running my website.  I truly don’t need anything too elaborate.  I am just looking for a dependable laptop.

My current laptop is a Dell Inspiron 1501 and is about six years old so I feel I have definitely got my monies worth from this investment.  However, it is finally on its last micro-chip.  Between computer freezing, hourglass spins, and the fact it really hates Facebook operations, tasks that should take me five minutes to complete can now take up to 20 or even 30 minutes if I can complete them at all.

So, I’ve decided to pull in the wisdom of my IT friends and colleagues in hopes that they will direct me down the proper path to laptop utopia. I know you all are on pins and needles over this new drama in my life so I will keep you informed as the saga unfolds.  By the way, in case you were wondering, I used the word “laptop” nine times in three paragraphs…I just like the word “laptop”…make that 10.    

Biggest Loser

OK…I admit it.  There is a reality T.V. show I am hooked on, Biggest Loser.  All you future entrepreneurs and aspiring marketing tycoons should take a lesson from the marketing experts for NBC’s hit.  They started their new season last night.

If you read my previous blog about New Year’s resolutions you know losing weight is in the top three goals every year.  I’m no longer a betting man, but if I was, I would wager that the viewing audience for this season will be much larger than last season.  Why?  Because they started the new season three days after roughly 46% of the nation set a goal to lose weight.  Why is that a great marketing scheme?  Because more viewers translates into more money for the network…talk about job security. 

Another lesson that can be learned from these brilliant business people can be found in the title “Biggest Loser”.  The initial connotation would indicate that the contestants on this show are at the bottom of the food chain (no pun intended…ok maybe a little pun intended).  However, nothing could be farther from the truth.

“Biggest Loser” does not mean the contestants are not successful in life but rather they are in a severe competition to lose the most weight.  What a great concept.  Title a show with a name that draws viewers in, and then actually teach the audience a positive lesson about life.      

The Office

WARNING:  THE OFFICE CRISTMAS PARTY MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR CAREER

Some of us who work in an office setting may be participating, to some extent, in the annual office Christmas party, luncheon, or dinner.  This is supposed to be a time to gather with co-workers and talk about the crazy holiday shopping, gifts we hope to receive, presents we will be giving and a review of the year by the powers-that-be.  Here is where the warning comes into play.  In case the topics go beyond those listed above, allow me to offer some friendly advice.

The office party is a lot like “Facebook”.  One may think they are in the confines of a protected environment. In actuality, you are on center stage…at all times.  For instance, you may feel you can say whatever you want, but I would highly advise against that urge.  You may even feel this is the opportunity to act out the crazy “I’ll do anything” personality your real friends know you have.  I would definitely advise against that idea.  Lastly, you may think you are going for laughs when you re-enact the way your boss responds to certain situations.  Here is a hint, that abrupt silence that occurs when everyone stops laughing even though you continue with your antics is because he just walked up behind you and is not amused.  You might as well grab a pen because you will be signing your pink slip by the time the paychecks come out in a few days.

Let the office Christmas party be fun, but don’t be stupid.  After the party is over and the good spirit of Christmas recedes back into the sub-conscious of most people, the harsh reality is your boss is still your boss and you will be facing your co-workers the next day.  Plus, you don’t want to end up on “YouTube”…do you?

Christmas Shopping

My wife and I spent the evening Christmas shopping.  I mean really Christmas shopping, like in the retail stores and stuff.  I know, most of you are thinking we must be crazy.  Why go out into the crowds when you can shop on-line and get free shipping right to your front door?  You are right.  It makes more sense to do the purchase electronically, but somehow it just does not feel like Christmas when all I have to do is click a button and poof…Christmas is here.

There is something about being out in the crisp, moonlit evening, driving through the streets and seeing the Christmas lights dancing off the houses, and listening to Christmas music in the car.  Then, we begin to talk about what we are going to buy our friends and family and I visualize the happy expressions on their faces on Christmas day.

It’s true that the internet has made things a lot easier.  There is definitely a plus to purchasing items over the computer when time is tight.  But if you have the opportunity this year, take a drive.  Christmas shop the old fashion way.  If nothing else, it’s a great way to get out of the daily rut of T.V. and Facebook. By the way, we did this on a weeknight.  If you’re brave enough to venture out to shop on the weekend…you might have a slightly different experience.

Christmas Present-Christmas Past

Photo by Thomas Gaudet

Every year in December there is a quaint little town in Southern California that celebrates Christmas in a nostalgic style.  At sunset, the community starts to gather in and around the fire station.  Hot dogs, chips, and sodas are served to the guests by the firefighters who take the time to wish everyone a “Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays”.

The people then stroll or are carried away in a horse drawn carriage or in an old fashion gas powered trolley to the businesses who have agreed to remain open.  This is where you may think, “Oh now I get it.  It’s about the businesses trying to cash-in on the holiday extravaganza.”  It’s true the stores are open for business but they are also offering free hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and snacks.  It’s a way for the community to get better acquainted.

After an evening of visiting stores and friends, people will gather back in front of the fire station and listen to live carolers while they wait to visit Santa Claus.  Yes that’s right… Santa sets up his chair and spends time getting to know what each little child is hoping to receive on Christmas morning.  Occasionally in the past, even Mrs. Claus has made an appearance to help Santa keep all the gift requests in order.

It’s nice to see that even in an area as populated as Southern California there are still cities attempting to create a sense of community and caring.  I think we can all use a reminder now and again that we are not alone in this world…especially during the holidays.

It Happens In 3′s

I know it’s an “Old Wives’ Tale” that things seem to happen in threes.  But isn’t it amazing, when we are talking about trials, tests, and tribulations in life that this in fact seems to be the case.

Why can’t this be the case with good things?  Wouldn’t it be great if all of sudden you found yourself one day with a new car, a vacation house in your dream location, and the money to pay for all the taxes and insurances that go along with these gifts? 

Well unless you know something about Santa Claus that I don’t, these things are not going to happen.  However, I can think of three things that always make a big difference in my life; God, family, and friends.  I guess good things do happen in threes after all…

Survival Tips For Your Live Christmas Tree

We get our Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving and keep it up until the day after Christmas.  You may also be one of those adventurous people who wants to get your live Christmas tree as soon as possible, but instead of throwing caution to the wind, you worry about it drying out prior to the day we celebrate the birth of Christ.

Here are five tips that may help make your tree last just a little longer:

  1. Make sure that your tree has a fresh cut on the bottom of the tree trunk.
  2. Make sure that you place your tree in a stand approved for holding water.
  3. Keep your stand filled with water (some freshly cut trees will need to be watered at least three times a day).
  4. I have found that a gallon of water mixed with a splash of Sprite or 7-Up and a splash of bleach keep the tree branches moist much longer.
  5. Pay the extra money to have the tree sprayed with fire retardant before you leave the tree lot.

Option #2 – Buy a fake tree…

Dads and Daughters

My grown daughters are now giving me advice…and the really interesting aspect for me is that their advice is sound and just.  As a parent, I must admit, watching them transition from teenagers to adulthood has been quite remarkable.

It seems like it was just yesterday when both the girls looked to me to help solve their issues that only a Dad could solve…at least that is the impression they would leave.  We would talk and work our way through their struggles.  Then I would give them my advice with the hope that it would make things better.  However, the tables have now turned.

I have one daughter who is extremely gifted and wise when it comes to finances and business.  She recently gave me sound investment advice that made perfect sense so I followed it to my advantage.  I have another daughter who is gifted with common sense beyond her years.  She recently offered me some advice that changed the course I was heading down and once again I benefited greatly.  So to all of this I say, “Thank you to my wife for raising two daughters full of wisdom who have become positive contributors to society.”  What more could a Dad want?