- Blog DIY - I've written a review of the new O'Reilly book "Essential Blogging." Check the review out if you're interested in starting your own blog. It's a great book for absolute beginners.
And if any of my friends start a blog, please let me know so I can add you to my blogroll.

- Before you die, you see the Ring - Yeah, I went to see the Ring, that new horror movie. I saw it on Saturday at a midnight show. I thought it was very creepy and definitely worth the admission price if you like weird horror films with a touch of mystery.

The film involves an urban legend regarding a videotape which, once it has been viewed, somehow kills the viewer seven days later. Is the legend true? What's going on?

You can view the actual videotape footage (which doesn't actually make much sense) at IFILM where it is called An Open Letter. I think the name of the movie changed, and perhaps that was the original title. In any case, I recommend you see the movie, then go to iFilm some night when you are at home alone and re-watch the notorious video footage. I dare you not to get a little creeped out, thinking you might hear the phone ring... (But see the movie first for maximum effect.)

Charles Schultz Philosophy - Someone sent me the following text, attributed to the "Peanuts" creator. It can be found many places on the net (just search Google and see) but I reproduce it here for the heck of it:

You don't actually have to take the quiz. Just read the QUIZ  straight through, and you'll get the point (an awesome one) that it is trying to make! Take this quiz: 1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world. 2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners. 3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest. 4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize. 5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress. 6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners. How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners. Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one: 1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school. 2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time. 3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile. 4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special. 5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with. 6. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you. Easier? The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care. Pass this on to those people who have made a difference in your life. "Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia." ----- Charles Schultz