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11:30am- While searching for a way to export this blog to plain and markdown text files (future-proofing), I installed a script that my webserver did not like. The memory usage spiked real high real fast. I logged into the back end, removed the offensive script, and hoped for the best. This may be the last post for a few days in hopes that things get restored properly.
7:35pm **Update** I’m back!
Overall I am enjoying the full conversion to the Apple ecosystem but have been noticing some frustrations lately. These are minor issues, certainly not deal breakers but I do wish they played nice with others.
Apple Music
The ability to stream and control music on all my devices is fantastic but what if I wanted to share a mixtape (playlist) here on my website? No, Apple does not permit this. Why then, do they give me the option to share via embed or link? (see below)
Apple Books
There may be a hint of regret at deleting the Amazon Kindle account. Amazon plays nice with public libraries, allows highlighted text, bookmarks and notes to be exported to various sources for further research. Apple’s tight grip disallows any of these options. Yes, there are some work arounds but they are not convenient and are close to being rendered moot by Apple.
Example 1- If I want to export multiple notes and highlights, then my only option is to email them to myself. Not practical.
Example 2- If I choose just one note or highlight then the options open up…but only to the stock Apple apps. Which is fine I suppose but that is not where I want them. Fail.
The fact that Apple is protecting the copyright holders and their Digital Rights is not lost on me. But then again, how am I able to do embed music on my website with Spotify? Why does Amazon have a more open system and plays well with others?
Your move, Apple.
To be truly free to create again is to have learned the rules, thanked them, put them aside, and begin asking what if.
Twelve pounds lost in eighteen days.
I have yet to write a novel or publish a short story but I did submit an article online and received payment for it. The more eyeballs that read it, the more revenue will come in.
Now, it isn’t a lot of money, in fact, it is almost insulting but that won’t change the fact that I am a paid writer now.
That was not the purpose of the submission but then again, it is still rewarding.
On 2/2 I began my year-long journey to create life long habits for myself and throw in some fun intentions as well. The plan is to check in every month to monitor my progress. How did I do since my last check-in on 6/6?
Major updates and improvements here. Almost two weeks ago I decided to try the keto diet and am pleased with the results so far. As of 7/6, I am down 10 pounds in 10 days! I feel better and thanks to a compliment from Mom, look better too (less puffy.)
I also joined the YMCA downtown. The idea being pure conveneince and limited excuses. Looking forward to the planned schedule of 5 am workouts and then walk to the office but of course, Mr. COVID wants to shit on that plan. So now I will go after work instead.
Sworkit and Headspace are my go-to trainers for now. Looking forward to attending some yoga classes at the Y but haven’t mustered up the courage for it yet (and why not??)
Photography- I haven’t touched the archives in two months. I think I burned myself out more than halfway through the project. Must get back on track.
Writing- Other than the blog and personal journal? Nothing. I have been doing a lot of reading and research, however, as well as invested in new (to me) software tools called IA Writer and Scrivener. IA Writer is a minimal, distraction-free word processor. Scrivener is a writer’s organizer that has a lot of tools needed to organize my research, mind-mapping, and writing. More time needs to be had to explore the features before I am able to use it properly, but that is always one of the best parts of discovering new tools.
The work-from-home situation could go on until at least September and this affects my creativity more than I thought. I am seeking ways to get through this but it isn’t ideal. I am looking for a new desk and bookcase. Simple, minimal, elegant. Like so:
As always, I see some progress, see some room to do better, and hope that next month’s check-in will be better than the last!
Recently, the Misadventures decided to hit the road for some exploring and of course, shenanigans. Thanks to Atlas Obscura, “the definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders,” there are more than a few odd places to discover along the way. During this excursion, we came across the remnants of an abandoned circus camp in Edmond, Oklahoma that dates back to the early 1940s
The secluded acreage was a home for the winter to the traveling circus. The property contained housing for the animals and trainers both. The area was overgrown with vegetation and some areas were cut off. We missed out on viewing the animal cages and more as a result of that growth but did manage to spot quite a few abandoned relics!
Chris Denbow [.com] 