July 2008 Update

Wow, I really need to keep my blog updated. A lot has happened this month which included:

- I got the new iPhone 3G!! This phone is awesome and I'm having a great time with it. Everything works well and the UI couldn't be easier. And since I was in for a penny with Apple, I might as well be in for a pound, I bought an iMac too. :) I'm going to investigate writing applications for the iPhone, as well as just learn more about the Mac platform.

- My first wave of immunizations are complete for the upcoming Kilimanjaro trip. No side effects or painful needle experience. I have a follow up next month to finish off some more.

-My concealed handgun permit came back sooner than expected (around ~30 days). So I can now legally carry a concealed handgun in 31 states (30 other states have reciprocal laws: if you're legal in one, you're legal in the other).

- I've started a new exercise program. It's not much, but consists of regular 30-minute sessions on an Elliptical machine, and varied muscle-group training. To supplement that, I've added some protein powder to my mornings and evenings, as well as keeping up with vitamins. Exercise really does make you feel better overall.

- You can find me now on Facebook. I got into that after I saw some friends were on there, and since there is an easy applet for the iPhone to use. It's really addictive. Plus, you never know who you might find on there that you used to know.

- I started playing FFXI again casually. My wife and I have a few characters we multi-box together. It's a lot of fun, but I'm not sure I'll be able to do as much after the pool league and school start back up.

- I signed up for UNCC Fall classes. I'll be taking 'Global Connections' and 'Operating Systems'.

- I'm preparing to take the new Microsoft certification tests as part of my training exercise this year. I may be able to squeak past them without studying, but it's good to review the 'academic' stuff which can trip you up in a test, and usually has nothing to do with practical real-life work exposure. I got my manager to pitch in for the Transcender study guide and practice tests.

- Pool league is starting back up. We're going to play 8-ball Express again. Most of the original crew is back together and I've taken up the captain reigns for this session. It should be a lot of fun; I'm looking forward to it after we took the session off.