The latest install of the Tweetdeck(v0.37.2) Twitter client added a new feature, a shortcut link called deck.ly, that allows for longer messages. Although the feature enables significantly more text to be included in a tweet, it does take away from the simplicity of Twitter … and the necessity to be concise. Personally I doubt that there will be many embracing and “following” those who regularly send long messages, but we’ll see.
Since the feature works seamlessly for those using Tweetdeck(v0.37.2),deck.ly messages show up in the Twitter client. For those using other clients or web-based tools, the shortcut link appears enabling readers to click on and view the entire text as with the screenshot below.
I didn’t put the cover on the pool this winter and so I’m able to see the damage to the ceramic tiles as it happens. With all the snow, rain and freezing temps, the winter weather is having fun snapping off tiles more than usual. Looks like I’m in for some work and pool repair this spring (I should probably try to fish the tiles out before they sink to the bottom?)
An EAA284 friend of mine enjoyed riding along on a Pilots N Paws rescue flight the other day and made a nice video too. Although I could just link to his site or the YouTube video, its enjoyable enough to include on my blog. It is great to see pilots using their time to help others … be they people or pets. Great video Steve and forward a “well done” to your friend Mike. (video below)
We took our shakedown sail on s/v Encore a couple days ago on our “new to us” sailboat last week. The weather in Florida couldn’t have been better for the first “real” sailing (my previous seatrials don’t count since Brenda wasn’t with me). Unfortunately as with most older boats, there are issues that need to be addressed – some high priority, like the depth sounder and frozen seacocks, others not so critical for coastal sailing but equally important: EPIRB, safety gear recertified or replaced, etc. Thankfully we didn’t have anything overly necessary that prevented us from sailing in good weather.
Brenda had a chance to do some clean up above and below decks (teak brightwork need work) and I installed the new upgraded Raymarine X-5 wheel pilot and did some rewiring. Before leaving I pulled out the speed, log and depth sounder in hopes to get them checked out and working before I end up stuck in the mud … or worse.
I’ll include a little video I took with my Palm Pre below … hmm, now that I’m back in Ohio with snow on the ground and freezing temps it even looks better than I remember. Can’t wait to head back.
No Superbowl party for us, but my wife and I did enjoy pizza and wings while watching the the Superbowl this evening. The Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers gave us an entertaining game, although both teams played hot and cool at different points in the game. When all the “commercials” were done, the final score put the Packers on top as NFL’s top team. Final score: GB 31 – Steelers 25. The Lombardi Trophy heads home.
On final note, one more Volkswagen ad from the Superbowl:
It feels good to be home from our quick trip to Florida and to be watching Superbowl 45 this Sunday evening, but even better to see the Bengals and Browns archrival behind 11 points in the first half. The Packers are looking solid as they have outplayed the Steelers on both sides of the ball – halftime score 21 – 10. I’m holding my breath though as the Steeler offense rallied just before the half with a well executed drive coming away with a touchdown.
The Superbowl commercials have been pretty good so far, but expectations are high. I excitedly tweeted the clean diesel commercial from BMW promoting their 335d performance diesel. Still though, I’m fond of Volkswagen promoting their new 2012 American built Passat, although didn’t mention the TDI optional diesel engine. (video below)
Should I show this to my wife (or hold back) before she heads out for her hours of long distance swimming off Florida’s Gold Coast?
I’ve never seen that many sharks in one place and am surprised to see that many migrating in such tight schools along Florida’s east coast.
Pilot Steve Irwin has quite a fish tale, and he wasn’t even fishing. Irwin is a pilot with “Island Marine Services” based in Fort Pierce. He said he was flying about 100 yards off of Palm Beach, at 80 mph, when he spotted thousands of sharks.
He pulled out his iPhone 4 and began taking pictures. He recorded the spectacular sight and wanted to share it. This is the time of year when sharks migrate and head for warmer waters. They also typically swim close to the shore while chasing after bait fish.