Posted on June 25, 2009 06:13 PM
Apart from Twitter's own terms of service which prohibit obvious things like harassment, transmitting viruses and spamming other members, there really aren't many rules to the site. You can essentially use Twitter however you like. However, for people and businesses who want to use Twitter successfully (eg: build a following and grow their circle of influence), there are a number of best practices that can be observed. I cover many of these in my book... Continue Reading
Posted on April 23, 2009 05:48 PM
I've been an Amazon.com Associate since the beginning. I'm not sure when they started their program, but it's been over ten years that I've promoted Amazon's products and services. Imagine my surprise when I received an email from Andrea, an Associates Account Specialist (is that for people who can't get jobs with the post office? I'm kidding.. relax...), that informed me my account was being closed. First of all, let me say this. I am... Continue Reading
Posted on April 16, 2009 01:10 PM
Twitter has experienced massive growth in the past year, with the number of people signing up each month accelerating. It has also become the media darling of the day. It seems that everyone is Twittering. However, with only 10-12 million people on the site, its clear that everyone is NOT Twittering. Don't fret. They will be soon. So where is the media paying the most attention to Twitter? You guessed it. It's all about the... Continue Reading
Posted on March 4, 2009 12:43 AM
It's a national holiday!
I know, it's not on the calendar. But I am declaring a national holiday.
In fact, I am calling it a GLOBAL holiday!
What's the special occasion?
It's Twitter Power Day!
Yes, that's right.
Today is dedicated to recognizing and embracing the power of Twitter to build relationships, enhance branding and grow your online business...
... and it's all FREE! Continue Reading
Posted on February 26, 2009 11:50 PM
A year or so ago, I started my own book publishing program. Essentially, my goal was to provide opportunity to a select group of new authors who I felt needed greater exposure. Made Easy Publishing has accepted a handful of manuscripts and I'm pleased to announce that our newest author has just hit #1 on Amazon.com! My friend, Ewen Chia, has just released his book "How I Made My First Million on the Internet and... Continue Reading
Posted on February 21, 2009 12:47 PM
Twitter Power is quickly moving up the charts, entering Bookscan at #45 in its first week! The first book on Twitter to receive mainstream distribution (it's at your local bookstore), my hope is that this is the big breakthrough for more businesses to understand how social media can be used to grow their business. I invite you to pick up your copy of Twitter Power at any of these fine booksellers. Barnes & Noble Amazon.com... Continue Reading
Posted on December 10, 2008 10:31 AM
I'm getting ready to bust loose with a four-letter word.
You aren't going to like it.
It might make you cringe.
Too bad. It needs to be said.
"Debt"
There I said it.
Do you feel relieved or does the word stress you out? Continue Reading
Posted on December 5, 2008 08:33 AM
I often hear grumbling from people who tell me how hard it is to make money online.
And then I see a 16-year old kid do it and think "huh... maybe not so hard after all?"
That's exactly what happened with my friend, Stanley Tang.
Stanley understands the power of mentors... following those who have gone before and modeled the success you want to achieve.
As a result, Stanley has found success on the Internet! Continue Reading
Posted on December 5, 2008 12:01 AM
On September 11th, 2008, I received an email from Matt Holt at John Wiley and Sons Publishing.
Matt asked me if I would write the definitive guide on Twitter for business.
And he wanted me to write it FAST.
As in, we have to have the manuscript in a couple months so we can release it by February of 2009.
Wow, that IS fast! Continue Reading
Posted on December 4, 2008 08:00 AM
It happens even before your site really starts to make money. You post articles, market your content, pick up comments and find that other sites are talking about you. All of a sudden, you've moved from being one person with ideas you want to share to being the center of a community, part of a circle of online friends with a keen interest in what you have to say. Continue Reading
Posted on December 3, 2008 09:14 AM
I've been a huge fan of Amazon.com since Bezos launched the site out of his garage. When the pundits said "It'll never work", I said they were clueless. Of course it will work. I spend more money on Amazon then any other online store, as do many of you. I'm also a huge fan of my iPhone and I've used it to shop at Amazon many times. I joined Amazon Prime a couple years back... Continue Reading
Posted on September 15, 2008 10:25 PM
It's been two years in the making. Finally, Blizzard Entertainment has announced the long-awaited expansion pack to the world's most popular MMORPG, World of Warcraft. Wrath of the Lich King is set to hit stores on November 13th, and I expect it to be another huge best-seller. Some people are surprised to find out that I play computer games, but I like to work hard AND play hard. Those who know my story would know... Continue Reading
Posted on September 12, 2008 07:30 PM
Here's a cool find.
Do the books your fellow countrymen are reading indicate which way their vote may be leaning?
You'll be fascinated as you explore Amazon's Election 2008 Interactive map.
Simply visit the site and you are presented with a United States map color-coded to the current political leanings, based on the titles that are being ordered by people living within each state.
Red is for Republican. Blue is for Democrat. Continue Reading
Posted on September 2, 2008 10:42 PM
What a fantastic book launch day!
My book, Click Here to Order, took Amazon.com by storm on Tuesday, September 2nd, moving up the charts at record pace!
As of this writing, the book has taken #1 in several categories, including Movers & Shakers, Web Marketing and Ecommerce.
The book is currently sitting at #18 of ALL books available on Amazon.com! Continue Reading
Posted on September 2, 2008 07:32 AM
Google.
Amazon.com.
eBay.
Yahoo!
MySpace.
Facebook.
Everyone has heard of these Internet giants.
These companies have generated billions of dollars in revenue and made their founders multi-millionaires.
The mainstream media talks about them religiously.
But ask yourself a question... Continue Reading
Posted on August 15, 2008 09:21 AM
Amazon.com recently reported that they had sold nearly 250,000 Kindle units since the digital book reader launched in November 2007.
This beats many analysts estimates and perhaps an indicator of where the book industry is headed.
I am excited to announce that several of my books are now available in digital format for Kindle users!
Here are the titles you can now enjoy on your Kindle... Continue Reading
Posted on June 11, 2008 12:46 AM
I need to back up a bit because I left out Sunday from my journal. On Sunday, I spoke at Chris Howard's "Ultimate Wealth Symposium" on the grounds of the Sydney Olympic Park. I had a fantastic time sharing my story with 800 or so people. I've got to say, the Aussies are a bit difficult to get moving, but I think everyone had a good time and learned a thing or two. I also... Continue Reading
Posted on May 31, 2008 12:56 AM
I'm currently in Los Angeles for the annual Book Expo America, otherwise known as BEA. Why BEA? I have a book coming out on August 1st and I showed up to support my publisher and do some networking. Now I must confess. I am a trade show junkie. I love the vast conference centers with aisles and aisles of vendors hawking their goods and services. I'm especially a sucker for the freebies and swag. It's... Continue Reading
Posted on May 13, 2008 12:08 AM
Several years ago, I had the privilege of meeting a gentleman who I have sinced dubbed "The nicest guy in Internet marketing." His name is Ken McArthur and he is the chief architect behind the highly successful JV Alert Live conferences. You see, Ken is incredibly successful because he continually pours himself into the lives of those around him. Whether it launching careers of other marketers or freely sharing his knowledge and expertise with anyone... Continue Reading
Posted on April 29, 2008 10:54 PM
When Mike Filsaime visited last week, he suggested that I get a the DVD documentary, "The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters". It is the story of a the men who are completely dedicated to owning the world record for the highest score in the videogame, Donkey Kong. Yes, you heard me correctly. There are people who obsess about having the high score for a videogame. After all, there is an entry in the... Continue Reading
Posted on March 24, 2008 01:54 AM
I've got a pretty colorful past. I got my first job when I was fourteen-years old, working behind the counter of a fast-food restaurant at Northbrook Court shopping mall in Northbrook, Illinois. After all, I needed to save up money to buy a TRS-80 Model I computer from Radio Shack! Once I acquired my driver's license, I worked in the health & beauty department at Venture. Yes, I was a stockboy. At the age of... Continue Reading
Posted on March 8, 2008 01:19 AM
I have a confession to make. I love shopping online and I love using online coupon codes. I've been doing online shopping online since Amazon.com launched in 1995. In the early years, merchants would regularly offer fantastic discounts on merchandise in order to get new customers to their stores. For example, Reel.com (nbow defunct?) used to offer $10 off coupons on a regular basis. So I would buy DVDs for approximately $5 each. What a... Continue Reading
Posted on February 22, 2008 12:10 AM
Admit it. You are passionate. Oh, I don't know what you are passionate about. But I guarantee that you are passionate about SOMETHING! You may be crazy about parakeets. Or perhaps you know more about bonzai trees than anyone on the block. Maybe you are one of the world's leading experts on Mt. Everest. Or it could be that you make the best french silk pie in the hemisphere! The point is that everyone is... Continue Reading
Posted on February 5, 2008 12:17 AM
I'm a big fan of Amazon.com. I spend far too much money there but they also give me a fair bit of money too through book sales and affiliate links. I think they've done a fantastic job of selling products online and helping website publishers earn from their content. They might be the Walmart of Internet retailing, but they're definitely not the Apple of whiz-bang gadgetry. Their new Kindle book-reading machine is a great idea... Continue Reading
Posted on January 25, 2008 05:46 AM
I've had several people ask me what I'm going to be up to in 2008. I'm very excited, because this is going to be a breakthrough year for many people who will increase their online revenue. AND, I am excited because I am going to be doing several things that have never been done before! That's kind of a mantra with me. I don't like to do what everyone else is doing. You have to... Continue Reading
Posted on January 15, 2008 08:06 AM
I make no secret of it. I am a 43-year old man who loves playing computer and video games. And why not? I was a teenage when Space Invaders, Asteroids and Centipede took over the arcades. I was sixteen when I bought my first computer, a TRS-80. It was great for primitive gaming. And I've got a great collection of old computer software in a special room in my basement. Perhaps I'll do a video... Continue Reading
Posted on December 16, 2007 11:24 AM
Twitter this. Twitter that. Twitter, twitter, twitter. I must confess. I'm still not sure what the point is of Twitter. Basically, Twitter allows you to tell the world what you are doing at any given moment, embed a clever little widget on your site so they can keep up with you, and you in turn can see what they are doing. I'm not sure I get it. Nevertheless, apparantly millions of people do get it... Continue Reading
Posted on November 23, 2007 12:10 AM
It was only a matter of time.
Google is coming out with their own phone.
But Amazon has beat the Big "G" to the punch with their own electronic device.
It's called Amazon Kindle, and it appears to be a contender for the coolest device of the 2007 holiday shopping season.
Imagine being able to access thousands of books wirelessly and read them on a crystal clear display anywhere you go. Continue Reading
Posted on November 19, 2007 12:40 PM
When I was at Blogworld last week, I came upon the booth of a company called "Entrecard." Their display caught my attention and I introduced myself to the CEO, Graham Langdom. To my surprise, Graham is also the creator of The Million Dollar Wiki. The reason I was surprised is that I had become familiar with that site the week before and had purchased a few pages on the site! Anyhow, knowing how innovative Graham... Continue Reading
Posted on October 5, 2007 08:05 AM
I recommend a lot of products to people, and sometimes I get emails from readers complaining that they can't possibly buy everything I recommend. I don't expect you to. Not all of the products I recommend suit everyone. All of them though will help someone. If you decide not to buy a product I recommend, that's fine. Just make sure that you're not turning down something that could genuinely help your site to grow and... Continue Reading
Posted on March 28, 2007 01:04 PM
Last July, I wrote about how Amazon.com was breaking into contextual advertising with its Omakase program. Now they're at it again with another context-based advertising system.
This time though, they've taken a leaf right out of Kontera's books.
Instead of placing ads in ad units, they're linking to keywords in the text and serving floating ad balloons. You can see samples here and here. Continue Reading
Posted on March 21, 2007 12:09 AM
Ever since Google changed its Terms of Service to allow publishers to place other ad programs on AdSense pages -- provided those other ads don't look like Google's ad units -- publishers have been wondering how to make the most of this bonanza. It's like telling a child he can put as many different types of cake on his plate as he wants. On my blog for example, I'm using Kontera's text links to supplement... Continue Reading
Posted on February 24, 2007 10:37 AM
Saturday morning ramblings.
I know, it might be Saturday afternoon or Sunday... or even Monday, when you receive this. Nevertheless, it's Saturday morning as a write.
So there. :-P
Here come the ramblings, kind of a stew from me to you :-)
Continue Reading
Posted on February 14, 2007 08:58 AM
Take a look at some of the most famous web site brands online today. Imagine that it is 1994 and the World Wide Web is a new novelty. What would you name a store that would sell books at discount prices? How about Amazon.com What would you name a site that would become the world's largest garage sale. How about Ebay? What would you call a site that would become a premier portal to the... Continue Reading
Posted on January 18, 2007 01:17 PM
People have been asking me three questions about the AdSense program, and their new terms of service and AdSense support team have now clarified all of these issues. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Question 1) Does Google allow other ads to run on the same page as AdSense Ads? Answer 1) The official word is a qualified "yes". You may not run ads that are designed to resemble AdSense ads. For example, Yahoo! Publisher Network ads look very similar... Continue Reading
Posted on December 12, 2006 04:13 PM
I remember when I bought my first DVD player, many years ago. I instantly fell in love with the high quality audio and video that came from the DVD. And I also loved the "special feature" aspect that DVDs allowed... deleted scenes, out-takes, behind the scenes documentaries, etc. I've got a DVD collection featuring over 750 discs to date. Now I just need time to watch them! And speaking of DVDs, my friend Russell Brunson... Continue Reading
Posted on December 4, 2006 10:54 AM
As an AdSense publisher, one day can be much like another. Each day, you update your content, check your stats and make sure that your traffic is flowing freely. With users coming, clicking and giving you income all day every day, it can be very easy to forget which day, week or even season it is. That’s a waste of an opportunity. It’s also not true that Internet time is separate from real time. You... Continue Reading
Posted on November 28, 2006 12:38 AM
The information age really does move at the speed of light. Technology is advancing faster than we ever conceived possible. I've been online for 26 years now. In 1980, I bought my first computer, a TRS-80. This machine had 4K of RAM (not 4MB... 4K) and a cassette player that was used as a storage device. There wasn't even a floppy disc drive! I owned a 300 baud modem that I used to dial into... Continue Reading
Posted on November 20, 2006 05:19 AM
When I first started playing around with AdSense, I knew nothing. Now, I like to think that I know a few things about AdSense, but I am still learning. Want to design direct-mail flyers? Don’t ask me. I haven’t a clue. Need to know how to fill a restaurant to the rafters every night? Never owned a restaurant. Not my thing. Want to build a deck? Follow my advice and you’ll just end up with... Continue Reading
Posted on October 14, 2006 03:36 PM
It was real exciting the first time my book hit the Amazon.com Best Seller charts. But it is even MORE exciting to see the book on the charts a second time! As of this writing, The AdSense Code is #56 of ALL books sold on Amazon.com. And even cooler, it is #1 in Computers & Internet category! I'd like to thank each one of you that has purchased this book. I hope it has helped... Continue Reading
Posted on August 22, 2006 04:11 PM
Eric Holmlund has been telling me about HyperVRE. He's like, "Joel, this is perfect for your AdSense students... and it's free!"
I said, "Reeeeally..."
So I took a look at it. And I am impressed. Eric said that I could show you his video that demonstrates exactly how this free tool works.
HyperVRE Continue Reading
Posted on August 19, 2006 10:58 AM
On September 27th, I am going to award FIVE people with a free one-year membership to the Premier AdSense Coaching Club, my members-only site designed to help people increase the profitability of their web sites.
How can you enter to win one of these five memberships?
Easy!
I present you with...
The AdSense Code Sightings Contest!
Here's the deal... Continue Reading
Posted on July 26, 2006 01:33 PM
What's in an hour?
Yes, I see the hand in the back of the room.
Sixty minutes, you say?
Ok, smart aleck. You can put your hand down.
You've probably heard the old adage that we all get the same number of hours in a day. You've probably also heard Gerber's advice to spend an hour a week working on your business not "in" your business.
And both are true . . . and false. Continue Reading
Posted on July 24, 2006 01:12 AM
Omakase is a Japanese word meaning 'leave it up to us'. It is commonly used in Japanese restaurants for a meal where the chef uses their experience and knowledge to select and prepare the meal for a customer without specific directions.
And with the beta launch of Amazon.com's new contextual ad service, Omakase takes on a new meaning.
DId you just say, Amazon.com and contextual ad service in the same breath?
Yes... yes, I did. Continue Reading
Posted on July 22, 2006 12:03 AM
When my book, The AdSense Code, was published in May, I was thrilled to see it go to #3 on Amazon.com. But it just got more exciting...
I found out that the book is now a New York Times Paperback Business Best Seller, reaching #6 on the charts!
Click here to see a PDF of the chart Continue Reading
Posted on July 14, 2006 11:19 AM
I picked up a copy of Crash on DVD this week because I had heard that it was a fantastic movie. Mary and I watched it last night.
I really wanted to like it, but I feel like it fell short. When I learned that it was awarded "Best Picture" by the Academy, I was amazed once again at how out of touch Hollywood is. Continue Reading
Posted on May 25, 2006 01:29 PM
Internet entrepreneur Joel Comm and his new book: "The AdSense Code: What Google Never Told You About Making Money with AdSense." reveal how anyone can generate passive income on the Internet. Since only those books that appeared on Oprah ranked higher, Comm figures Oprah and her audience would find his Internet income strategies the real story.
Read on for today's news release... Continue Reading
Posted on May 24, 2006 12:13 AM
What an incredible day it was!
My book, The AdSense Code, officially launched yesterday. You can read the official news release at PRWeb.com.
But the most exciting thing of all was that the book reached #3 on Amazon.com's Best-Seller list! Out of the million-plus book titles offered by Amazon.com, The AdSense Code was the third most popular! Continue Reading
Posted on May 23, 2006 12:12 AM
I'm going to keep this simple.
Go to Amazon.com and buy a copy of my book, The Adsense Code.
When you do, I will give you over $6900 in bonuses from top Internet success stories.
Don't believe me?
Click here to see! Continue Reading
Posted on May 7, 2006 11:29 PM
Lara Croft is back. And this time she means business. Back in the late nineties, Lara Croft came on the scene in the game Tomb Raider. A female "Indiana Jones"-style character, Lara spelunked tombs in ancient ruins of Rome, Mexico, Egypt and Atlantis, fighting off creatures and bad guys while on the hunt for priceless artifacts and treasure. Rather than just shooting to kill stuff, Tomb Raider challenged the player mentally with a series of... Continue Reading
Posted on May 1, 2006 09:49 PM
Whenever I do teleseminars and publicly speak, I tell people that we are entering a new age of the Internet. Internet v1.0 was the beginning of the web. Money was tossed about like confetti as venture capitalist waved millions of Benjamins at anything with a dotcom for a suffix.
Then the bubble burst.
Enter Internet v2.0. Continue Reading
Posted on March 30, 2006 11:24 PM
It was a pretty exciting day yesterday. The UPS man dropped four boxes at my front door. I instantly knew what they were.
Carrying the boxes insides, I quickly found scissors and gently cut the tape that sealed the cardboard boxes.
It was just as I had expected. Books. Dozens of copeis of the same book. My book.
It had finally arrived... Continue Reading
Posted on March 3, 2006 06:04 PM
I can't remember the last time I had so much fun playing guitar.
No, I'm not talking about my Yamaha Strat knock-off or my Ibanez steel string.
I'm talking about a plastic guitar with no strings and five frets.
Huh? Continue Reading
Posted on January 26, 2006 11:31 PM
What makes you tick? What is the source of the "fire in your belly" that keeps you dreaming and reaching for... whatever it is? What is the one thing that you care about most and would give anything to have, be or do?
That is your passion. Continue Reading
Posted on November 14, 2005 07:16 PM
I received some very exciting news today. I have signed with Morgan James Publishing, Inc., a New York-based publishing house, to bring my Google AdSense ebook to the retail market as a hardcover book! That means in approximately 60 days, my book should be available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Waldenbooks, Amazon.com and many other locations. Cool stuff, eh? Continue Reading
Posted on October 13, 2005 01:32 PM
Uber-Geek, Chris Pirillo, has done it again.
His new service, Gada.be, is a fantastic new meta-search that allows you to get results on any terms. You can save time and keystrokes. You can pull the results to your mobile device without much load time. You'll see results from Google, Yahoo, Amazon and many more with just a few easy keystrokes.
Try it out! See what happens when you click http://joel-comm.gada.be
I Gada Be Me! Continue Reading
Posted on September 22, 2005 12:29 AM
Yesterday, I received a press release announcing a new book that my readers might find of interest. The book is called "Help! Mom! There Are Liberals Under My Bed" by Katharine DeBrecht. Being a solid conservative, I got a laugh out of the title and had to read on to find out what the book is all about. Since I haven't read the book myself yet (but have ordered it), I will just post this... Continue Reading
Posted on August 21, 2005 12:41 AM
I've always been a fan of the Broadway musical. When I was young, I remember hearing my mom and dad play the soundtracks to many popular musicals on their record player. Fiddler on the Roof, Company, Carousel, The Sound of Music and West Side Story were staples around my house. Combined with a few trips of my own to the theater, I developed a taste for this genre before I became a teenager. Continue Reading
Posted on June 22, 2005 04:23 PM
After many months of programming, design and delays, I've finally got an almost finished site that I am excited to tell you about. Since 1999, DealofDay.com has been a leader in online coupon codes. We post dozens of deals each day from many of the web's leading merchants. Whenever someone makes a purchase through one of our links, we get a commission. Now I am providing others with the tools to create their own coupon/deal... Continue Reading
Posted on May 23, 2005 11:04 AM
I'm in the midst of reading "Under the Overpass: A Journal of Faith on the Streets of America" by Mike Yankoski. Essentially, Mike left his upper-middle class life and became a homeless street person for five months. He felt it was important to put his faith in God to the test to see if it would get crushed or blossom in the face of extreme adversity. His other motivation was to get a clearer picture... Continue Reading
Posted on May 2, 2005 08:57 AM
As a Christian, I occasionally struggle with the truths of the faith. It is normal and healthy to wrestle with God, continuing to seek Him and coming to know Him better.
A recent conversation with my good friend Ken led him to recommend a book to me. The title is Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller. Continue Reading
Posted on April 18, 2005 10:04 PM
I finally took the plunge. I ordered a Delphi MyFi XM2Go portable XM satellite receiver from the Amazon.com marketplace. Continue Reading
Posted on March 27, 2005 12:32 AM
About a year or so ago, I was looking for a novel to read and came upon a very interesting book by Gregory Maguire. It was called Wicked, and it was a work of fiction that retold the story of The Wizard of Oz from the perspective of the Wicked Witch of the West. Not for children, Maguire weaves a tale of fantasy, love and politics that turns the classic story on it's ear. It's... Continue Reading
Posted on February 1, 2005 12:00 AM
Who would have thought that the rubber faced wildman from In Living Color would become an accomplished actor? While not crazy about Ace Ventura, I thoroughly enjoyed Jim Carrey in The Mask. I even appreciated the dark turn he took in The Cable Guy. But it was his part as Truman Burbank in The Truman Show that caused me to truly respect Jim Carrey's talent. With a superb screenplay, excellent cinematography and a top-notch supporting... Continue Reading
Posted on January 20, 2005 11:13 AM
The Amazing Race 6 has turned into a hit show, gathering more steam as each season goes by. Pretty impressive for a show many thought would not return after season 2. Unfortunately, this season contains some of the least likable people the show has seen. The producers have opted for cookie-cutter model types for many of the couples. Several of the others have just been utterly uninteresting. Fortunately, the exotic locations and unusual tasks continue... Continue Reading
Posted on January 14, 2005 11:54 PM
Here's an interesting program some of you might want to take advantage of. Jump through a few hoops and you get some pretty serious rewards.
Continue Reading
Posted on January 10, 2005 09:49 PM
We are in the process of designing a new home which we intend to build this year. A few years ago, we bought two acres of land in our city. We have been holding on to it and think the time is ripe to place a home on the property. My father is an architect, so he is drawing the plans. Thanks Dad! But I thought it would be a fun thing to play with... Continue Reading
Posted on December 31, 2004 12:19 AM
If you haven't shopped at Amazon.com, you probably aren't reading this entry. Let's face it, just about everyone has made a purchase from Amazon.com at some point. But have you ever tried to contact Amazon customer service? I challenge you to find a phone number on the Amazon.com web site. Go ahead. Look. You won't find it. Why not? They don't want you to. Amazon would rather deal with customers via email. But that doesn't... Continue Reading
Posted on December 16, 2004 09:07 PM
The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown is absolutely everywhere. It's been on best-seller lists for ages. It's on the front racks at all the bookstores. Many people are buying into this work of fiction as though it were truth. Some in the Christian community are having a good time pointing out that it is indeed nothing more than fiction. The book has spawned a catalogue of additional works discussing the original. And Ron Howard is... Continue Reading
Posted on December 8, 2004 03:54 PM
I love Amazon.com. Even though I probably shouldn't shop there due to the amount of smut they sell, I still love shopping there. But they really ticked me off today. I ordered a copy of Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite 6.0 a couple weeks back. We are thinking of building a new home and I wanted to get an idea of what it might look like. Well, the program was not what I... Continue Reading
Posted on November 22, 2004 11:17 PM
It was on the same exact date last year that a friend and I drove to Wichita, Kansas to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra perform their annual Christmas concert. This year, we were fortunate enough to have the show come to the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. If you have never heard the TSO or been to a TSO concert, you are missing one of the greatest holiday treats of our generation. Simply put, it... Continue Reading
Posted on November 8, 2004 10:43 PM
Way back in July 2004, Disney released America's Heart and Soul without any fanfare. I reported about the release of the movie and indicated that I was eager to see it. While the film received virtually no screen time, it is now available on DVD. I finally viewed the movie tonight and I am perplexed as to why Disney did not put some promotion muscle behind this brilliant and inspiring picture! America's Heart and Soul... Continue Reading
Posted on September 20, 2004 11:55 PM
The most requested DVDs of all time are finally going to be hitting the retail shelves today. Faster than you can say, "Use the Force, Luke", The Star Wars Trilogy DVD set will probably break all records for DVD sales. I know that I will be contributing my $45 to George Lucas's pocketbooks as I plan on picking up my copy on my way to work today. If you can stand to wait a few... Continue Reading
Posted on August 31, 2004 03:32 PM
The pioneering spirit of the Internet continues to inspire people to build a better mousetrap. Nowhere is that spirit better exhibited than in the now ubiquitous search engine known as Google. While not the first search engine on the scene, Google has now surpassed all the rest to become the most useful tool for finding what you want on the web. Today's site highlights a new free download which makes the Google experience ever more... Continue Reading
Posted on August 20, 2004 12:59 AM
Remember the Rocky and Bullwinkle show? "Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat!" Among the other characters that were featured on this classic cartoon were a pair named Sherman and Mr. Peabody, in a bit called Peabody's Improbable History. In this toon, Mr. Peabody (the dog) would send Sherman to a period in time to see living history. The machine he used was called the WABAC (pronounced "wayback" machine). Fast-forward to... Continue Reading
Posted on August 16, 2004 11:29 PM
What do you want? This is the question that we must ask ourselves, digging deep into our souls to discover that which drives us onward. In The Journey of Desire, John Eldredge ignites that spark that may light the flame of desire within, moving aside all that we think we want in order to make room for the deeper desire that can bring us true fulfillment. Eldredge writes in down-to-earth terminology. He communicates eternal truths... Continue Reading
Posted on July 31, 2004 11:52 PM
Mary and I attended a marriage conference at our church the past two days. It featured Gary and Michael Smalley of the Smalley Relationship Center. Gary is a best-selling author and speaker, with over 30 books in print. He has spoken to millions regarding relationships, marriage, parenting and so forth. His son, Michael, is equally gifted, and now has a counseling center and his own syndicated radio talk show. The seven hours spent in the... Continue Reading
Posted on July 8, 2004 12:45 AM
One of my all time favorite movies is The Truman Show. In fact, when I get around to it, it is the next movie due up in my series of The 15 Best Movies Ever. (Yes, I am LONG overdue...) This past week, I was in Borders Books and I wandered into the sci-fi aisle. I've been doing a lot of non-fiction reading lately, so I thought it would be a good time to find... Continue Reading
Posted on July 5, 2004 12:52 AM
Have you seen Fahrenheit 911? I won't see it because I am certain the lies and anti-American propoganda will enrage me. Have you bought it hook, line and sinker? Read about the 56 documented deceits of Fahrenheit 911. Afterwards, you'll either support Moore even more, which only died in the wool liberals can do, in spite of evidence. Or, you shall feel duped by his pack of out and out lies. The 56 Deceits of... Continue Reading
Posted on June 23, 2004 04:29 PM
I just finished reading Shadowmancer by G.P. Taylor. I bought it for my son to read and he really enjoyed it. On his recommendation, I gave it a read. A fantasy novel with a spiritual twist, Shadowmancer turned out to be a pretty good read. In the past, authors such as Frank Peretti and Randy Alcorn have managed to write some excellent Christian fiction that dealt with the spiritual dimension, that being the world of... Continue Reading
Posted on June 21, 2004 12:55 PM
I have been sick for three weeks now. I'm not complaining. I rarely get ill, so this is just unusual. I don't know that I have ever coughed my head off like I have been these past few weeks. Tried decongestants, antibiotics, vitamins, hot soup and lots of sleep. I've got what I call a "hanger-onner". It just doesn't want to let go. So, its a rambling day for me as I sit in bed... Continue Reading
Posted on June 17, 2004 03:56 PM
I rented Mystic River this week, as I have been wanting to see it ever since it received critical acclaim. This Clint Eastwood directed film has been dubbed his "masterpiece" by many, with Sean Penn and Tim Robbins both winning Oscars for their performances. Mystic River was a very moody and layered piece. Three boyhood friends are forever changed when one of them is abducted and abused for several days. The 10-minute boyhood prologue sets... Continue Reading
Posted on June 15, 2004 11:12 AM
A few years back, I purchased a Pioneer DVD recorder for my home PC. I enjoyed burning a handful of videos onto disc (home movies), but I haven't really gotten much use from the unit. Incompatibility problems, buggy drivers and other obstacles have made it a bit less attractive then when I first purchased it. I've had my eyes on a DVD recorder for my home theater ever since that time, pining for the day... Continue Reading
Posted on June 8, 2004 01:10 AM
Several years ago, I remember going to the theatre with Mary to see a Martin Short film called Clifford. It took us about 15 minutes to walk out of the theatre and request a refund, something I had never done before or since. It was THAT bad. We just got done watching a movie that makes Clifford look like Shakespeare. Over the years, Christian film-makers have lagged behind secular filmmakers for lack of creative scripts... Continue Reading
Posted on June 4, 2004 03:30 AM
Earlier this year, I went to my local T-Mobile store and purchased a Sidekick, a unique cell phone and PDA that is pretty slick looking. T-Mobile has a 14-day trial period, so I took advantage of it, not really sure if I would want to keep it. Plus, I had already decided that I would be returning this phone as I found I could get it cheaper on Amazon.com. The phone retails for $350, but... Continue Reading
Posted on May 21, 2004 02:09 AM
I recently read a book that has given me much to think about. It is called The Dream Giver, by Bruce Wilkinson (of The Prayer of Jabez fame). The Dream Giver is actually two books in one. The first portion is a modern-day parable that tells the story of Ordinary, one who dares to leave the Land of Familiar in order to pursue his Big Dream. The second half discusses the meaning of the parable... Continue Reading
Posted on April 28, 2004 12:00 AM
It's gonna get heavy folks. Hang tight. On the heels of Sunday's "Pro-Choice" march in the nation's capitol, I continue to be dumbfounded by the rhetoric of these people. Underneath the surface of "women's rights" lies multitudes of women wounded by their choice to kill their own babies. Let's face it. This argument is NOT about abortion. It is about whether or not the "fetus" in the womb is a life. If it is not... Continue Reading
Posted on April 5, 2004 11:01 PM
Admittedly, my tastes run a bit eccentric. I don't enjoy odd films just because they are odd. Maybe I am odd. Anyhow, I ran across a documentary that I just had to have. It promised thrills, excitement and all the fun that is inherent in a National Spelling Bee contest. For real! Spellbound is a fascinating and fun film that follows eight children in their quest to become National Spelling Bee Champion. The eight children... Continue Reading
Posted on March 20, 2004 12:57 PM
I am WAY overdue on this entry in my 15 Best Movies Ever series. Sorry about that, but I wanted to watch the film again before writing about it and recently got around to it. I know, I know. You were checking my blog every other minute just hoping the review was forthcoming. Wait no longer! #9 is a love-it or hate-it film by Monty Python alumnus Terry Gilliam. The only American in the troop... Continue Reading
Posted on March 12, 2004 12:00 AM
About three years ago, I came upon the soundtrack for Seussical the Musical at Amazon.com. Seussical is a Broadway production based on the works of the late Dr. Seuss. The story follows many favorite Seuss characters including The Cat in the Hat (the Narrator), Horton the Elephant, Mazie McBird, Gertrude McFuzz, a cast of Who's and many more favorites, in a family-friendly joyful walk down memory lane. My family and I have worn out the... Continue Reading
Posted on March 1, 2004 03:18 PM
I saw The Passion of the Christ last night. I have to agree with something Glenn Beck said after viewing the film. It's unreviewable. Yet, there is so much to say. I hope you will endure my babbling to find something worthwhile in the words to come. By now, you have heard about this movie. I have been writing about it for nearly 9 months now as the opening day has drawn closer. One entry... Continue Reading
Posted on February 24, 2004 12:28 AM
Darkwolf (my technical guru) messed with some free scripts and put together my own Amazon.com book store.
Essentially, you can browse this site and find anything and everything that you would find at Amazon.com. In fact, when you go to make your purchase, you'll actually be making it from Amazon.com. AllBooks.info - Slick, huh? Continue Reading
Posted on February 19, 2004 01:34 PM
Several years ago, I came across an incredibly useful site which has continued to stay on my hitlist. Alexa.com has since been purchased by Amazon.com and they offer a free toolbar which I find indispenable. Not only does Alexa give you more information about who owns a site, but it also provides a popularity ranking, links to similar sites AND a FREE popup blocker (which is highly customizable). Naturally, it wouldn't be an Amazon.com product... Continue Reading
Posted on February 17, 2004 10:40 PM
As the World Wide Web enters its second decade of existence, .com has become a ubiquitous surname. From the obvious pets.com and business.com to the unique sendmeadollar.com and hollywoodjesus.com, it is clear that .com has become King of the domain roost. .net and .org have been around almost as long, but they are like the red-headed stepchildren at K-Mart. (No offense to red-headed kids, but all offense meant to K-Mart.) .net was initially intended for... Continue Reading
Posted on January 31, 2004 04:27 PM
Mary and I rarely go to the movies these days. I hate going to a crowded theater with people who talk during the film or make incessant noises as they scarf down their popcorn and jujubees. We are far more likely to enjoy a film in the comforts of our own home. We rarely see a film until it has come to DVD. Last night, we watched Seabiscuit. While I did not live through the... Continue Reading
Posted on January 6, 2004 12:05 AM
When I look back on the past few years of technological advancements, several computer-driven products cause me to wax eloquently. My iPaq 3835 has been a trusty PDA for almost two years. But it has lost its shine and there are newer models that have stolen my affections. My Dell laptop rocks, but in a mere few months I am certain its big brother will find me coveting at its front door. My Pioneer CD... Continue Reading
Posted on December 29, 2003 11:13 PM
I have been a computer gamer ever since I encountered Space Invaders on my TRS-80 (that REALLY dates me) about 25 years ago. Dozens of computer games are published every year, but only a handful of those I try actually keep my attention for the duration of the game. The last game to do so we Star Wars Galaxies (which has since lost my attention and I am cancelling my account). I had a great... Continue Reading
Posted on December 18, 2003 08:45 AM
M. Night Shyamlan is a modern day Alfred Hitchcock. To date, he has made several films, including Unbreakable (with Bruce Willis) and Signs (with Mel Gibson). I thoroughly enjoyed both of these pictures, but it is his first film that has stayed with me as unforgettable. I am speaking of #12 in my series of The 15 Best Movies Ever, The Sixth Sense. In this film, Shyamalan proves he is the new master of suspense... Continue Reading
Posted on December 10, 2003 12:01 AM
Hello. My name is Indigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die. By most standards, The Princess Bride should have been no more than a mere blip in the history of cinema. The fairy-tale story of the handsome hero, of the beautiful damsel held against her will by an evil prince, and of the sappy happily-ever-afters undoubtedly attached to the end has been endlessly repurposed by Hollywood again and again. However, when Rob Reiner... Continue Reading
Posted on November 27, 2003 06:25 PM
What is the nature of memory? How accurate is your memory? Is it possible that your memories didn't really happen as you remember them? These are just some of the questions you may ask yourself when you get past the initial "wow" factor after seeing Memento, one of the most original thrillers ever put on celluloid. Memento is the story of Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), a man who suffers from the inability to make new... Continue Reading
Posted on November 23, 2003 03:37 PM
Mary and I had the opportunity to escape for a rare "date night" last night, and what a great night it was! We started the evening with dinner at Cascata Ristorante, a fine Italian dining establishment in Edmond. The atmosphere was charming and it was a pleasure to be waited on by a very professional wait staff. It all looked quite good so we decided to order two plates and share them. We ordered the... Continue Reading
Posted on November 21, 2003 03:22 PM
About six years ago, a friend of mine introduced me to a new Christmas CD by The Trans-Siberian Orchestra. For those not familiar with the band, they are all rock and rollers, many with a heavy metal background. Their first album, Christmas Eve and other Stories is unlike anything I've ever heard before. It's a rock opera. It's spiritual. It's progressive rock. Simply put, it is an album that captures the essence of Christmas better... Continue Reading
Posted on November 12, 2003 10:32 PM
After spending time in Philadelphia, Boston and Washington D.C., I am more persuaded that the system of government that we operate under is as close to perfect that can be had on this planet. However, it is people that corrupt the system through their greed and selfish motives. Tonight, the Republican Senate majority has called a 30-hour session to bring a serious matter to the attention of the American people. Over the course of the... Continue Reading
Posted on November 5, 2003 11:46 PM
We departed from Conway, Arkansas around 10 am. About five hours later we pulled up to our home. The month flew by. It seems like yesterday I turned to Mary and said, "Are we really going to do this?" Now, it is over. We high-fived and I said, "We did it!" 2 kids 1 dog 31 days 1 packed minivan 1 flat tire 4720 miles 15 tanks of gas 103 hours of driving 16 hotels... Continue Reading
Posted on October 27, 2003 06:06 PM
We left Philadelphia early this morning and jumped on the highway towards Hershey, Pennsylvania. The kids have been looking forward to our visit to Chocolate World for the whole trip, so the anticipation had been building. Hershey's Chocolate World was just plain fun. Pulling into the parking lot gives you the feeling of, "Uh oh, there goes the diet!" The first thing we did was check out the free Chocolate Tour Ride, a Disney-style track... Continue Reading
Posted on October 21, 2003 09:15 PM
We had a horrible night at the Quality Inn in Lyndhurst, NJ. It was supposed to be a non-smoking room, but the odor was there just the same. I went to the front desk and they gave me an ionizer to use in the room. We gave it a shot, but it didn't do the trick and the odor was giving Mary a headache. It was late and the kids were already falling asleep, so... Continue Reading
Posted on October 7, 2003 10:32 PM
We left Jacksonville, MO around 11 am and set course for Beardstown, IL, made famous by the Beardstown Ladies Investment Club. Our visit had nothing to do with investing. We visited friends, Carla and Rick Simmert. Carla is a blessing as she is the person God had in place to take over Mary's web site, SafeHaven, when Mary no longer had the time to give it the attention it needed. We spent a couple hours... Continue Reading
Posted on September 26, 2003 10:31 AM
One of the best-loved action/adventure series of all time is coming to DVD! George Lucas and Stephen Spielbergs' Indiana Jones Trilogy is due to be released on October 21st. This is Harrison Ford as his absolute best. Action, adventure, romance, Nazis and snakes (why does it always have to be snakes?) It's all there in this four disk special edition. That's right. Each movie gets special treatment with tons of extras, including commentaries, documentaries... Continue Reading
Posted on September 4, 2003 10:19 AM
My faith in the American public is slowly being restored with this news from the Hollywood Reporter newswire. Fox News gains, other news networks fall NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) - Fox News Channel was the only cable news service in August to grow in viewership from a year ago, gaining 20% in primetime and 29% across the entire day, according to Nielsen Media Research. By comparison, CNN fell by 9% in primetime and total day... Continue Reading
Posted on August 31, 2003 05:20 PM
President Bill Clinton had the opportunity to stop, catch, or kill bin Laden more than twelve times during his presidency, a new book set for release this week claims! And on at least two occasions through Drones and Global Positioning Systems the Clinton Administration knew exactly where bin Laden was -- and refused to take him out well after knowing he was as a national security threat. The book is called Losing Bin Laden and... Continue Reading
Posted on August 17, 2003 06:33 PM
We discovered a great new game yesterday. Using nothing more than a GPS device (Global Positioning Satellite), our car and the cooperation of other fun seekers, we participated in an anytime sport known as GeoCaching! Essentially, people all over the world create the treasure that others would see. Take an old shoebox and fill it with various knickknacks. Find a place to stash it, often a public park. Get your hands on a GPS device... Continue Reading
Posted on August 13, 2003 12:42 AM
Definitely the best thing to come along in talk radio since Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck is rapidly becoming the "must-listen to" host of the decade. Limbaugh is still the King of talk radio (sorry Howard Stern), but Beck brings a freshness that has been missing. Politically, he manages to hit the nail on the head again and again, giving voice to what many of us already think and believe, but with an insightful approach that... Continue Reading
Posted on July 17, 2003 09:49 PM
I've been having a great time with Star Wars Galaxies. What a fun and addictive game. Here are the latest screen shots I have captured while exploring the galaxy. I took a few of me hanging out after a long night's hunt, as well as some HUGE creatures I encountered on Talus while doing missions with Vaba.
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Posted on July 17, 2003 09:55 AM
Pre-order Indiana Jones DVD trilogy. No DVD collection is complete without these.
Pondor feedback left by you regarding our plans to take a one-month family road trip.
Stop. Smell roses. Or something similarly fragrant.
Work less. Work smarter. Life is short.
Be a friend to someone today.
Do the hokey pokey. Because let's face it. That's what its really all about. Continue Reading
Posted on July 6, 2003 12:44 AM
Mary and I just finished watching a television series called Manor House. This 3-part, 6-hour PBS series aired in 2002 and is now available on DVD. Manor House ranks as one of the best TV shows I have ever had the pleasure to watch. This was reality television at its very best, putting Survivor and Big Brother to shame (well, they are pretty shameful to begin with.) Basically, nineteen volunteers from the modern world move... Continue Reading
Posted on July 3, 2003 01:58 PM
I have finally gone and done it. I have purchased my first Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game for the PC, Star Wars Galaxies, from LucasArts. I have dabbled with the game for a few hours today and have found it to be quite entertaining. I am beginning to see the appeal of this genre. Certainly, there is a fair amount of battling to be done. But most impressive is the interaction with other people simultaneously... Continue Reading
Posted on May 15, 2003 10:54 PM
Sprung for a new computer game today, Enter the Matrix. Of course, it is based on The Matrix world and released to coincide with The Matrix Reloaded (which Mary and I intend to see Sunday evening). Cool - the Wachowski brothers wrote and directed the game, which is virtually unheard of in game production. Tons of additional footage was shot using principle actor JUST for the game. So it should add a lot to The... Continue Reading
Posted on May 11, 2003 11:23 PM
I am so disgusted with tonight's final episode of Survivor 6: The Amazon. 21-year old Jenna was declared winner by an overwhelming majority of the jury. Now I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that we live in a world full of crazies. I can't imagine a more undeserving person to get the million $$$. I'm going to go sleep this one off... Continue Reading