Sunday, April 29, 2012

World Conquest Across The World

The following is an example of technology at its finest.

This morning I played a game of Risk with two friends. No big deal, right? Did I mention that my friends were in Halifax and Japan, while I sat on my couch in Kitchener? After a week or so of figuring it out, thanks to an innocuous photo I posted on Facebook, Sean, Joe and I played Risk Factions over Xbox Live. Using the world map and classic rules, we were able to squeeze out 2 matches while it was morning here and nearly midnight for Sean. It worked so well, that we may make this a regular occasion. I love technology today.

Oh yeah... and Sean won the first game and Joe the other. But that's not important.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Round 1 Playoff Predictions

After seeing Dan's predictions he posted on Facebook (what, is your blog no longer good enough?), it reminded me to post my own.  Because apparently I still care enough.  So there's that.

In the East, New York over Ottawa in 5 - For a team that was predicted by many to finish dead last, Ottawa has done surprising well for themselves. I'd like to see them surprise more and move onto the second round, but these predictions aren't who I want to win, it's who I think will win.  The Rangers are just too good this year.

Boston over Washington in 4 - Because Washington is just terrible this year.

New Jersey over Florida in 6 - Just because you're the 3rd seed doesn't mean you only got there by winning the southeast division. You're the smartest kid on the short bus.

Philadelphia over Pittsburgh in 7 - This series is going to be all kinds of awesome.

In the West, Los Angeles over Vancouver in 7 - Because of a hot goaltender. Although I kind of want to see Vancouver make it to the second round just to be beat by the Blackhawks.

St. Louis over San Jose in 5 - Because where did the Blues come from this season?

Chicago over Phoenix in 7 - Followed by the Coyotes booking plane tickets to Quebec City for next season.

Detroit over Nashville in 6 - Because, flip a coin?  I have no insight into this series, but... it's Nashville, come on.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Free Movie Network!

I decided to engage in a bit of cord shaving today, reducing my cable TV package from the VIP to Digital Plus (and thus saving about $15 per month).  The only channels I'll really miss are Sportnet One and The Score, but those alone aren't worth $15.  I got no hassle from the guy on the phone, and in fact he ended up offering me a free trial to the Movie Network for 2 months (which I asked to be automatically disabled after the trial, but I'll be sure to check on that). So, that's pretty sweet.  Not that I tend to sit down and watch a bunch of movies, but it's perfect timing for being able to watch the second season of Game of Thrones. You know... legitimately.

One day I'll cord cut, but live streaming of sports has to improve. Have you seen the quality of the Hockey Night In Canada stream? Atrocious! On the other hand, the TSN stream of curling is quite good quality (which will be the last bit of praise I'll be giving TSN).

I'll gladly pay for the things I want to watch.  But I won't pay for the things I don't watch just because of an arbitrary bundle for much longer.

More IME Too?

First it was Big Wreck coming out with a great new song and album, and now I just found today that I Mother Earth has also regrouped and released a new song, "We Got The Love". I'm listening to it for the first time on the band's website as I type this. I'm loving what I'm hearing. Also, my self of 10 years ago is loving this resurgence of some of my favourite band.