Martial arts: the third year
"Half" is this the watchword in this past year's martial arts training. In Feb. 2010, my beautiful little daughter was born and that's the best reason ever for reducing the time in the dojo. But as I started training in Sept. 2007 and my daughter was born at the end of Feb., that's half a year. And during that half a year, I've only been able to attend class about half as often, and even then only half as long. In effect, I've had to prioritize my training and I'm focusing on karate only; aikido will have to wait until time (and energy) returns. But there has still been plenty of advancements.
Read MoreThree approaches to designing a “near me” mobile search
Mobile devices like the iPhone that contain a GPS are revolutionizing how people find things near them. Throw in a video camera and it gets even more interesting. But information designers can't just come up with the fanciest options and be done with it. We must ensure that all users searching for a coffee shop (for example) can find one in a way that is optimal for their device. From simple, paginated lists to 4-dimensional holographic displays, finding what you want, when you want it, near where you want it, mobile devices have come into their own. Except they can't really do any holographic stuff. (Yet.)
Read MoreA simple solution to a common real-estate sign problem
Frustration comes in many forms: the empty milk container in the fridge; tripping over a child's toy in a doorway; and worst of all: a barren real-estate flyer box! Design might not be able to solve the first two of these common issues, but it can solve the third. Real-estate agents take note: I've devised an ingenious method to ensure passers-by are never again left wondering about the price, square footage, and other details of a home you've listed. Read on to find out what my secret approach (you might just be surprised at how simple it is!).
Read MoreThe future is here, or why Google’s video chat is amazing
We may not having flying cars or robotic maids, but we do have simple, usable video conversations! The Jetsons promised about the future that hasn't (yet) come true, but Google has delivered on at least one technology innovation: video conversations on our computers. For now, they're limited to the web browser, but Apple's introduction of the iPhone 4's FaceTime technology also promises to make seeing one another while we talk on the phone a reality, too.
Read MoreCelebrate your democracy: vote! (Especially for Vince DeMiero)
Sec. of State Sam Reed expects just a 38% voter turnout in August 17's primary election in Washington State. That's right: well under half of eligible voters will bother to vote. Don't be one of them! Drop your ballot in the mail by the end of the day tomorrow. And while you're at it, mark the circle next to Vince DeMiero if you live in the first legislative district.
Read MoreNow Reading
Planned books:
None
Current books:
The Player of Games (Culture) by Iain M. Banks
Recent books:
- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
- The Dragonriders of Pern by Anne McCaffrey
- House of Suns by Alastair Reynolds
- The Santaroga Barrier by Frank Herbert
- Stardust by Neil Gaiman