Star Trek into Darkness was released last week and amongst all the buzz a customer of mine showed me the new Audi commercial that features Spock vs Spock. It is definitely worth checking out… I laughed out loud!
May 19
HDTVs vs. Projectors: Which is the Best Option for Your Home Theater
The following is a guest post sponsored by h.h.gregg.
Read more about differences between HDTVs and video projectors to determine which one you’d like in your home theater. Both offer high-quality picture quality, large screen sizes and many other benefits. Learn more now.
Flat-Screen HDTV vs. a Projector ̶ Which One Should You Put in Your Home Theater?
Once a luxury reserved only for the wealthy, home theaters have become a more common fixture in the average person’s home nowadays. And, if it’s a DIY home theater, that means it’s up to you to make decisions regarding technology. One of the most significant choices you’ll have to make is between a big-screen HDTV or projector for your video display. Each has its merits, so which one should you go with? Check out this rundown comparing the two based on major features and see which one seems like the best fit for your home theater.
Size
When you’re creating a home theater system , chances are you’re not interested in a 19-inch screen. If you’re a bigger is better kind of person, a projector and screen combination is for you. You can get a 100-inch corner-to-corner display with this option, giving it the edge over flat-screen HDTVs which usually cap out at 80 inches. That means at least 20 extra inches of viewing if you go the projector route.
Image quality
If screen size isn’t the main determining factor for you, image quality may very well be. After all, what good is a home theater if the picture you’re looking at isn’t clear. You’ll get 1080p resolution with either option, so that ensures the highest quality for movies, TV and gaming. But, contrast ratio – what defines light from dark – is what sets these two apart. HDTV wins hands down in the contrast ratio category offering viewers far superior crispness and clarity than a projector. The backlighting provided by a television also outperforms a projector and displays brighter, richer color. It’s also important to note that projectors don’t always display well if there is excess light from lamps or windows shining into the room. This isn’t a factor when it comes to HDTVs.
Space
Screen size isn’t all about viewing area. Thickness, or more accurately thinness, is an important factor as well. Most people want their screen as thin as possible, and a paper-thin projector screen beats out the thicker flat-screen TV counterpart without question. Plus, a screen can easily be rolled up and stored when not in use. You will need to find somewhere to place the projector however, whether it’s mounted on the ceiling, wall, or placed on a table. This obviously isn’t a concern with a television. So, you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of each option depending on the space concerns present in the room you’ll be using for your home theater.
Lifespan
Your HDTV or projector’s lifespan is largely dependent on the light source it uses. A typical plasma, LCD or LED HDTV will last for approximately 60,000 hours while a projector lamp will last 2,000-4,000. Replacement projector bulbs run around $200-300, and depending on how much you use it, you can expect to buy a new bulb every year or so. If you’re bothered by the extra cost and maintenance that come with bulb replacement, a projector might not be for you. If this isn’t a factor in your decision however, you can more or less consider the two video sources comparable in lifespan.
Cost
For most people, choosing between a projector and an HDTV will come down to cost. Obviously, prices will vary greatly based on screen size, brand, and overall level of quality, but in general you can expect to pay around $3,500 for a high-quality screen and projector and $3,000-$5,000 for an HDTV of comparable size and performance level. You should also remember to factor in the cost for replacement projector bulbs and an HDMI cable. You’ll likely pay less per viewing inch with a projector, particularly if you purchase an 80-inch flat-screen, so that gives it a slight edge price-wise over a television.
The verdict
When it comes down to it, deciding between these two options depends on what kind of home theater experience you’re trying to create and what kind of content you’ll be viewing the most. Are you looking to create a cinema-like experience in your home to watch movies on DVD and Blu-ray? A projector and screen will give you the most authentic movie theater feel. Do your TV habits mainly consist of streaming content from the Internet, playing video games, or accessing content stored on your computer? Then an HDTV will be your best bet as it includes Wi-Fi connectivity for online streaming, multiple HDMI inputs for video gaming systems and other components, and USB inputs for connecting a flash drive or computer hard drive. So, take into consideration your viewing habits and what you intend to use your home theater for — everyday TV watching or the occasional movie night with a group of friends. Luckily, you’ll get an exceptional entertainment experience with both options, so you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose.
Apr 16
Revolutionizing The Credit Card Application Process
One of the most important things about new discoveries and advancements in technology is to transition how people get things done into a more convenient, time saving manner. The internet made shopping for retail products and services far more convenient for you as a consumer, but recent developments also made shopping for personal financial products a simple process from the comfort of your own home.
When you decide to acquire a credit card, either for the first time or to add to the collection, the process is very trying on your patience as a consumer. In today’s environment, speed and convenience are two of the most important aspects of product shopping. The traditional process of applying for a credit card is to speak with a provider, and run down all the available options in a repetitive back and forth negotiation that takes up much of your personal time. This process is no longer beneficial in today’s market, and in some cases actually costs you more money than you otherwise could afford to save.
Thankfully, the internet revolutionized how you can compare credit cards in Canada, and save time and money while doing so. Online credit card comparison websites act as one stop shops that allow you to compare the best advertised credit cards and their corresponding interest rates from some of the top providers across Canada. Many of the providers listed on these sites are lesser known companies that operate independently of the major banks, and some of these lesser known credit card firms offer better deals than what you could find through the major banks.
Online comparison shopping is more beneficial than the traditional application process because it puts control in your hands instead of the credit card provider. Under the traditional process, you walk into the office of a creditor and leverage what you can from the account manager. But many providers institute a dictation of terms that are often more beneficial for their business as opposed to your financial well-being. These types of firms rely on the perceived naivety of applicants, particularly younger Canadians, who believe that the one offer from a provider is a take-it-or-leave-it term.
But you can avoid going through these strenuous situations by comparing all viable credit card providers within your area from the comfort of your own home. This way, you can review all the relevant offers from each of the providers competing for your business, and select the option that is best suited to your financial needs. This puts you back in control of your finances as you know you can go onto a different provider if your first option is unwilling to negotiate more affordable terms.
To some people, the expanding power of the internet is both bane and boon. But if you want to find the best credit card to help you build an admirable credit score, the internet will be a boon to you and a bane to the credit card companies.
The above is a guest post.
Apr 11
Not Every Little Girl Dreams of their Wedding Day!
Maybe an odd topic considering I am getting married in less than a month but the reality is that the planning wasn’t as easy (or as hard) as some people make it out to be. I imagine every bride’s trip to the altar is different; even if we use the exact same checklist, the items that stick out as most important to each bride are different. For me… the hardest part was trying to actually picture the day!
I’ve run into so many women that dreamed about getting married ever since they were a little girl. And if I am completely honest I’ve thought about the day a number of times over the years, but where I think it differs for me is that I pictured being married not the wedding itself.
Like many women… geez I hope I am not alone in this… in past relationships I pictured myself being with the person forever. In some cases that was a horrifying experience hence why the relationship is no longer. At one point when I was dating I would be picturing this on the very first date and by the time we finished our first drink I had us going through a very messy divorce in my mind… hmm, maybe that is why there was never a 2nd date 
I grew up with parents whom were very family oriented. Our extended family (grand-parents, aunts & uncles, cousins) didn’t live close but my parents made it a point to visit them a minimum once per year. Between family visits we always received updates as an attempt to keep these close bonds and even within our immediate family, we made a point to sit together for as many meals as possible. Although there were no cell phones in the early years, the rule was that we didn’t answer the phone during that time. When family issues arose (like that ever happened) we dealt with them as a group. I’m not saying that things were rosy and perfect every day… but for the most part I felt that my family was there to turn to if I was ever in trouble, in doubt, or needed to celebrate; they were there for everything and anything.
Now that we are all grown up and distance (and life) sometimes plays a factor, we are still pretty close in comparison to others. In many cases my siblings can still finish my sentences and know how I am feeling before I even open my mouth. Family to me, even during the busiest times (although mom & dad may disagree when I miss a few too many weekly visits) is still #1 to me.
So back to this wedding thing… Growing up mom & dad were married. I never thought about the day they got married 1) I wasn’t invited and 2) it was not a long lasting event… their marriage was! Events are exactly just that, a moment in time. I was more fascinated by a relationship that was able to span years, grow, evolve, and flourish. With so many relationships crumbling in today’s society, my parents were a bit of an oddity (in a good way). I grew up with no dissolution that being in a committed relationship was hard work. Our family wasn’t a fairy tale (okay maybe Cinderella with all the cleaning we did… haha had to put that in Mom!) and I imagine they would say neither was their relationship. Life throws curve balls which results in peaks and valleys. The strength of relationships is tested and the strong ones survive.
I quite admired my parent’s relationship (and still do). They didn’t always agree on every subject or each approach taken while raising their kids but they always stood by each other and supported whichever stance they agreed to take… seriously it was a futile attempt to break through that iron wall once built, we tried!
As an adult I admire it their relationship that much more, knowing exactly how hard it is to run with an idea that we may not be wholly invested in. The powerful message for me was that they could each step back and trust in their spouse that it would work out if they did it together; in most cases a mutual compromise was reached that was a blend of their ideas, approach, and personalities.
I’ve tried to emulate them in my relationships, attempting to see the bigger picture as a couple not simply from my own perspective. I have not always been successful but I think them having 38+ years of practice gives them a bit of a leg up.
I was finally able to picture my wedding day when I stripped out all the “stuff” and reminded myself that it is a celebration of us committing to each other for the long hall. It really is probably one of the easiest things we are ever going to do… the hard part starts the day after when we realize that every decision now impacts two and not just one.
A new group of lessons await us just around the corner… good thing I knew they were there and didn’t think it was going to be “Happily Ever After!” without a bit of elbow grease on both our parts every day.
So if you have any advice for a soon to be newly married couple, send us your comments below!
Apr 01
How to Deal with a Long-Term Relationship Breakup
Relationships do not seem to last as long as they did in the past. There are probably many societal reasons for this but whatever the cause, dealing with a long term relationship breakup can be one of the most painful things you will ever go through. As a consequence, it is worth considering why you are suffering so much and if there is any way feelings can be understood, so that we can learn from them.
Why does it still hurt even when a break up or marriage failure was necessary and desirable?
Some people say receiving a Decree Absolute is a terrible day as it officially states the marriage is over and was, in essence, a failure. This is not good for our psyches as it means that not only are we not in that relationship, but we also have to cope with the fact that it represents a huge disappointment. After all, our plans and dreams with the person we hoped we would be with forever have been dashed.
Why does divorce or breakup feel so unsettling?
Usually, everything changes and some people have likened a break up to bereavement. Everything you relied on will probably have changed. This affects your identity; you are no longer part of a couple, no longer a husband or wife and a break up even impacts on friendship groups. You have no idea what will come next. Will you need to move? Will you always be alone? Can you face another relationship, especially if you have been with someone for a long time? Finding a professional counsellor may well be really beneficial at this time.
Should I hide my feelings, grit my teeth and just carry on as normal?
This is not recommended, as it is worth taking note of all the mood swings you will probably experience. If you bottle up these extreme feelings then often the pain is prolonged. Acknowledge how you feel, work through it in your mind with a trusted confidante or professional. Maybe it is worth keeping a journal and writing about feelings and/or fears. This can allow you to get out of the rut and banish resentment, anger or negativity.
How can I possibly carry on?
Making future plans is probably essential. When we have no goals, nothing to plan for, nothing to look forward to, we can find ourselves feeling depressed. Think of this time as an opportunity to pursue things you couldn’t do before. It might be as simple as an exercise class or taking a painting holiday. The important thing is to remind yourself there is another way and you are going to do your best to build your future.
What can I do to make myself feel better?
Look after yourself, begin new routines and give yourself time to recover. Surround yourself with people who care, but also make every effort to find new social groups and friendships. Learn to see what suits your mood, keep alert to what your head and body are telling you and maybe explore different places, activities or interests. This might help you keep away from any addictive behaviour like drugs, alcohol or over eating to compensate for loss.
What do I do with all the memories and things I don’t want to keep hold of?
It’s funny how sometimes music can trigger an exact memory and, at least at the beginning, it is worth sorting through items you no longer want to have round you. These might be DVDs you both used to watch, CDs, games you played together or memorabilia that represents a time past. Don’t be afraid to have a good sort out and maybe make some money to invest in your future, your independence and the next chapter of your life.
This post was brought to you by www.musicmagpie.com where you can get cash for all your old DVDs, CDs and Games today.
Mar 22
Paper Towns: A Book Review
At some point in our existence we’ve contemplated on running away—from home, from routine, from life itself. Maybe it’s because we got tired of going through the same things over and over again, or maybe we just want a complete reset. To do this, we all know that we must stay away from familiar surroundings and our usual crowds. It takes a lot of courage and maturity to accomplish this mighty task, and turning points like this does not choose a particular age or time—it can sneak up on you, even when you’re too young or inexperienced. Such is the central theme of the novel Paper Towns by young adult fiction writer John Green.
The story centered on the life of neighbors Quentin Jacobsen and Margo Roth Spiegelman, who were childhood playmates until High School made them move into different circles. One night Margo knocked on Quentin’s window, asking for help, and they spent the night pulling pranks as revenge on people who did Margo wrong. The antics were all Margo’s ideas, and they’re all hilarious and inventive that you’d think to yourself you should’ve done it when you were a teen. Aside from playing online games over at www.foxybingo.com or spending all night blogging at Tumblr, we should’ve squeezed an evening of spontaneity and adventure just before graduation. Something we can tell our grandchildren about.
Anyways, after that eventful night when Quentin had the time of his life, Margo disappeared. She left with the barest of clues: a poster, Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass, a note. Not one to give up on her, Quentin enlisted the help of his best friends to look for Margo. Their search took them to the most unlikely places, and made them learn things about themselves and about each other. The quest also made Quentin realize how much he doesn’t know about Margo, despite being in love with her.
Popular John Green novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska are more intense than this story. Their plots are also more romance-centric than the theme of this novel. Still, what will endear you to the book is the self-discovery you’ll confront when you’re done.
Mar 21
4 Essential Denim Items to Own
The following is a guest post.
You’re already likely to own a denim item or two; after all, it is one of fashions most beloved and versatile fabrics. Have you purchased all of the most essential, classic denim garments however? Here’s a look at 4 denim items that every woman should have in her wardrobe:
Jeans
Let’s start with the most common denim purchase for both men and women, whether they be style conscious or not; denim jeans have become an essential item for day-to-day wear and are not always considered a high fashion garment. A great pair of well-fitting jeans can be the start of many an incredible outfit however, so invest wisely in a pair that really do your figure justice! There are numerous different jean cuts to choose from: skinny jeans, boot cut, flares, straight leg, etc. Always try before you buy, the right pair of jeans should last you for years and really do wonders for your bum, tum and legs. Alongside the numerous cuts, jeans come in a range of denim finishes from white-washed and ripped to crisp and smart navy.
Shorts
Want to work a huge spring/summer 2013 trend? Get ready to work denim shorts. Denim shorts are another denim item that never seems to go out of style; seen on the pins of young women across the globe each summer. This year embellished denim shorts are in particularly high demand; look out for lace, stud, diamante and patterned panels added to the front of denim mini shorts. If you’re looking for a longer denim short style, Bermuda shorts and Boyfriend jean cut-offs are another popular choice; great for those who want to work denim this summer without revealing too much.
Jacket
If there’s just one classic denim garment you should own, it’s got to be the denim jacket. This iconic style of outerwear can complete any outfit in seconds and instantly a touch of ‘cool’. Denim jackets have been in style since the early 1900s and never really been out of fashion since. Opt for a baggy, vintage design to complete a retro-inspired look or a modern cropped design that can be worn over delicate summer maxi dresses. Denim jackets are a common celeb favourite with the likes of Kate Moss and Rihanna seen wearing them on a regular basis.
Shirt
They may not be huge this season, but worked in the right way a denim shirt can be a brilliant staple to any summer or winter wardrobe. Choose a lightweight and pale shade denim look for spring/summer and team with pattern mini shorts or a bodycon mini dress; forget buttoning your denim shirt right up, work it like a cowgirl with a playful twist around your midriff. For an autumn/winter take on the denim shirt, wear with a midi skirt, thick tights and a great pair of boots.
New Look are a retailer of value fashion apparel, the second largest womenswear retailer in the UK, with over 1,000 stores worldwide. New Look’s designs range from dresses and jackets, denim short and shoe collections.
Mar 19
Making 2013 my Best Year Yet – Update
So it has been two months since starting my course with Robin Sharma and time I give you an update on how things are going. We had our second conference call. I was unable to attend because an important client showed up with a project, but thankfully the calls are recorded so I still got the benefit of the information.
Change is hardest at the beginning, messy in the middle and glorious in the end. Since we are still at the messy stage this call was specific to answering our questions and concerns so that we as individuals could get clarification and make any corrections needed. There were people from all around the world on the call. Some were doctors, lawyers, trainers and business people. It was reassuring to hear that regardless of ethnicity or career, we pretty much all had similar questions and concerns.
The three biggest reoccurring themes were fear, time and reassurance. From a fear perspective, people were worried about criticism and failure. Time was a concern in terms of managing it, how long before change would be noticed, taking on too much at once and when to take a break. Everyone wanted some form of feedback that they were doing things correctly and that the results would come.
At the end of the day, change takes work. Successful change takes a lot of work and dedication. There is no magic pill or easy road to take. Everyone who has ever been hugely successful has gotten there by working really hard at their goals. It is easy to stand on the outside of someone’s life and believe that their success or their “great” life was handed to them; that they are lucky or smarter or genetically different than the rest of us. I bet if you had the chance to sit them down and ask them how they got their success; their answer wouldn’t be it got handed to them on a silver platter.
One other clear message came through to me on this call ~ don’t spend time doing something that shouldn’t have been done at all. In other words, completing a task or spending time and effort on things that is not in line with your goals is counter productive to being successful. I will be keeping this in mind and making course corrections as I move forward.
How are your goals coming along?
Mar 12
Putting on Airs
Have you ever been to an airport lounge and listened to some of the conversations people are having on their cell phones? The tone and verbiage used oozes and screams “notice how important I am!” If you haven’t noticed this, you will now that I have brought it up. You will hear things like the integration and amalgamation…enhanced communication structures…solidified the verbiage…in depth analysis…impeding the SOPs…circle back with me on the RFP…and many more buzz words or phrases that make the person sound important; well at least that is what they hope you’ll think.
The reality is most of us respect people who are genuine and communicate on a real level. I’m not saying you shouldn’t use descriptive words, just be natural in your communications. The use of airport lounge speak causes barriers to go up because you come across as “I’m better or more important that you”. Connecting with people on a real level is key for creating relationships with staff, clients and coworkers. If you come across as arrogant you will jeopardize opportunities for career and business advancement. The most influential people in the world are so successful because they are reaching people by being true to who they are and that genuine personal is appealing to the masses.
If you are having a hard time creating solid business relationships, take a step back and notice how you are communicating with people. Chances are you are not projecting an authentic genuine you.
Recent Comments