Linux on Children’s Computer

I got fed up with having to constantly “fix” the kids computer in their room.  They were constantly installing software, toolbars and other “helper” applications that were causing the computer to not run well.  Plus the updates were non-stop — especially since were weren’t allowing them on the Internet during the week… all updates were being done when they finally connected to the Internet on the weekend.

With Ubuntu installed, they can still run all of their online games (Runescape and Andkon) as well as some Linux games that will keep them relatively entertained.  They can do any type of wordprocessing that they need using OpenOffice.  They can connect to the music library using Rythmbox and DAAP and they can view any videos that then need.

The boot-up time is under a minute (compared to over 5 minutes with XP) and everything is working well.  The only limitation is currently the system will not hibernate or suspend well, since the boot-up time is so short, it shouldn’t be an issue.

Cheap Trick Live at Harrah’s

Andrew and I went to see Cheap Trick at Harrah’s last night.  I saw them last year at the TLA in Philly along with OK Go and it was a great time.  Andrew has been mentioning that he would be interested in going to see them, so when tickets went on sale, I got some as part of Andrew’s Christmas gift.

We were in the Penthouse area – sounds nice, but it was pretty far from the stage.  We had a good view, however since we were above the stage.  The sound was good, although not as good as if we would have been down at floor level… but probably best since it was Andrew’s first concert.

They sounded great… still anchored by Bun E. on drums and Tom Petersen on bass – who are the highlight for me.  Robin was in good voice.  There were only one or two songs that he has adjusted a little to stay within his range.  They played all the hits you would expect.  Plus, they rolled out one of my favorites “Heaven Tonight” – and did it justice and they dusted off “Don’t Be Cruel” which sounded great as well.

My only real complaint was the length of the show.  They started promptly at 9:00 and they wrapped up their encore by 10:19.  I was expecting a little more.

Andrew had a blast though and I must say that I think it was a great first concert to see.

Fabulous Holiday Weekend

What a wonderfully relaxing weekend.  With all the activity leading up to the holiday weekend, it was really nice to just relax and enjoy the holiday and the time with the kids.  I’ve discovered that I’m not too bad at Guitar Hero and that Matt and Emily really like Dance Dance Revolution and Spore.  Andrew got Spore for Christmas and installed it on our main computer in the dining room.  I must say that it was an even bigger hit with Matt and Emily.  Matt wants to get it for DS with his Christmas money.

The most fun was competing at Guitar Hero with Kathy.  She was surprisingly good at it, but couldn’t match my focus and determination.  It may also help that I already know the songs a little bit better.  Andrew got the Aerosmith edition and I love the fact that it has all the best Aerosmith classics (including my personal favorite “Uncle Salty”).

It will be some time; however, before I can compete against Andrew.  He has an uncanny Guitar Hero ability… I’d like to think that it’s because he actually can play guitar – but more than likely it comes from hours of video game play.