5 Tips for driving with cruise control

Cruise control is a helpful feature that can make long drives more comfortable and less tiring. However, it's important to use it safely to avoid accidents. Here are some tips for driving safely while using cruise control:

1. Check the road conditions: Before you engage cruise control, make sure the road conditions are safe. If the road is wet or slippery, it's best to avoid using cruise control as it can increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle.

2. Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Cruise control maintains a constant speed, but it doesn't react to changes in traffic conditions or unexpected obstacles. Therefore, it's important to be alert and ready to take control of the vehicle if necessary.

3. Use cruise control on highways or open roads: Cruise control is most useful on highways or open roads with minimal traffic and no stop-and-go traffic. Avoid using it in heavy traffic or city driving.

4. Monitor your speed: Keep an eye on your speedometer and adjust your speed as needed. If you need to slow down, disengage the cruise control and apply the brakes.

5. Use cruise control only when you are fully alert: Avoid using cruise control when you are feeling drowsy or fatigued. Cruise control can make it easy to lose focus, and it's important to be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

By following these tips, you can safely use cruise control and enjoy a more comfortable and relaxed driving experience.

 

Namaskar!

- Will 

Spring Thunderstorm In 4K with GoPro Media Mod Mic

When is the best time to set up your audio recorder device? Before the event.

When is the second best time to set up your audio recorder device? As the event starts.

When is the worst time to find out you do not own a 32gb or smaller MicroSD card? While setting up your audio recording device.

 

Guess the first thunderstorm of the Spring will be in GoPro Mono...

 

 Fortunately, we have the GoPro Media mod with a pretty solid (mono) microphone.  Anyway - enjoy the thunderstorm rolling in, and for best effect, watch it on YouTube.  While you're there, give the video a 'like', drop a comment and subscribe to the channel!

Namaskar!

- Will

Can a .223 (5.56 NATO) 'Split a human in half'?

 

 5.56 Match Ammo  by  mr.smashy,
CC BY-NC 2.0

There's been a lot of noise on Twitter recently about a 'firearms expert' witness providing sworn testimony in California noting that the .223 / 5.56 NATO round fired by the modern sporting rifle, the AR-15, can 'split a human in half'.  While a lurid tale, it's not true or accurate. 

The notion that a .223 rifle round can split a human body in half is a myth. It is not possible for a single bullet, regardless of the caliber or type, to physically split a human body in half. While a high-powered rifle round such as .223 can cause significant damage to the body and even result in death, it does not have the capability to split the body into two separate pieces.

The effect of a bullet on the human body is dependent on several factors, including the velocity and mass of the bullet, the angle at which it enters the body, and the target's body composition and location. When a bullet penetrates the body, it can cause damage to bones, internal organs, and blood vessels, and in some cases, exit the body. However, it is extremely unlikely that a bullet would cause the body to physically split in half.

It is important to note that any type of firearms can be dangerous and should be used with caution and proper training.  If you choose to participate in the shooting sports, please get training on your specific firearm and remember the 4 rules of firearm safety.

Namaskar, and shoot safely,

Will

What are the advantages of the 5.7x28mm cartridge over other pistol cartridges?

 5.7 is enjoying a resurgence with the Ruger 5.7 and the Palmetto State Armory Rock 5.7 pistols beciming widely available in 2022.  But what is this hopped up .22 round getting so much attention?  

The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a relatively new cartridge that was designed for use in firearms such as the FN Five-Seven pistol. It offers a number of advantages over other pistol cartridges, including:

1. Light weight: The 5.7x28mm cartridge is much lighter than other pistol cartridges, which makes it easier to carry and allows for a higher ammunition capacity. This can be particularly useful for military and law enforcement applications, where weight and ammunition capacity are important considerations.

2. High velocity: The 5.7x28mm cartridge has a high velocity, which allows it to penetrate body armor more effectively than other pistol cartridges. This can make it a valuable tool for military and law enforcement personnel who may need to engage targets that are wearing body armor.

3. Low recoil: The 5.7x28mm cartridge has a low recoil, which makes it easier to control and shoot accurately. This can be particularly useful for shooters who may have difficulty managing the recoil of larger cartridges, such as those used in rifles or larger handguns.

4. Versatility: The 5.7x28mm cartridge is versatile and can be used in a variety of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and submachine guns. This makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications, from personal defense to military operations.

Overall, the 5.7x28mm cartridge offers a number of advantages over other pistol cartridges, including its light weight, high velocity, low recoil, and versatility. These features make it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications, from personal defense to military operation.

So there you have it - light weight, versatile, low recoil (easy to shoot) and solid penetration for defense work.

Be safe and always follow the 4 rules of safe gun handling!

Today I went to work

 Today, I went to the office.  Before that, I made a chart showing what didn’t happen with one part of our handset app.  Yes, I track what doesn’t happen just as well as what does happen.

Today, I would have liked to walk, but did not dress for the conditions. 40 and calm in the morning is not the same as 40 and windy in the afternoon. So what little exercise I got was inside the building. Perhaps to plan better tomorrow, or walk more staircases.

Today, I came home. 

Today, I passed another day.

How to use ChatGPT from OpenAI to automate your blogging

 Welcome back from your holiday vacations! Hopefully you had an excellent and refreshing time away. But now it's back to work, generating content for your blog, website, internal communication site etc.  Did you know you can use Artificial Intelligence to help you automate some of the writing process for your blog? Let's get started with ChatGPT, currently in open beta and free to use.

ChatGPT is a large language model trained by OpenAI that can be used to automate the process of writing blog posts. To use ChatGPT to write a blog post, you can simply start a conversation with the model and provide it with some information about the topic you want to write about. The model will then use its advanced natural language processing capabilities to generate a draft of your blog post.

Here's an example of how you might use ChatGPT to write a blog post:

1.     Start a conversation with ChatGPT by typing in the chat box: "Hello ChatGPT, I'd like to write a blog post about coming up with good ideas for blog posts."
2.     Provide ChatGPT with some information about the topic you want to write about. For example, you could say: "I want to write about ways to generate new ideas for blog posts, and how to focus on the blog's overall purpose and mission."
3.     Ask ChatGPT to generate a draft of your blog post. You might say: "Can you please generate a draft of my blog post on coming up with good ideas for blog posts?"
4.     ChatGPT will then use its advanced language processing capabilities to generate a draft of your blog post. You can review the draft and make any edits or additions that you think are necessary.

By using ChatGPT to automate the process of writing blog posts, you can save time and effort, and focus on other aspects of your blog. Plus, the model's advanced natural language processing capabilities can help you generate high-quality content that is engaging and informative for your readers.

Namaskar!

Will

Today, I Write

 Today, I write about what I did this day to make it memorable. Perhaps not world shaking, perhaps not even meaningful in the grand scheme of things.  But I write.

Today I did laundry, preparing for the return to work on Tuesday.

Today I played video games, learning more about how the game is designed, how patterns are used in communication. 

Today I watched football, allowing the flow of the game to feed my emotions, to feel something 

Today, I stay up too late again reading the Wheel Of Time books series.  I started reading the series in the mid 1990’s when it first came out and have never finished it.  I would like to complete all 14 books by the end of winter.

Today I began thinking of planning motorcycle trips, or firearms training sessions, or firearms competitions throughout the year. 

Today was a good day.

- Will

How can I set realistic new years resolutions?

 

Setting realistic new year's resolutions can be a great way to start the new year off on the right foot and make positive changes in your life. Here are a few tips to help you set realistic new year's resolutions:

1. Start small: Don't try to overhaul your entire life in one fell swoop. Instead, start with small, achievable goals that you can work towards gradually. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep going.

2. Be specific: Vague resolutions, like "be healthier" or "get organized," are difficult to measure and can be hard to stick to. Instead, try to be specific about what you want to accomplish. For example, instead of "be healthier," you could resolve to "eat three servings of vegetables every day" or "exercise three times a week."

3. Be realistic: It's important to set goals that are challenging, but not impossible. If you set goals that are too ambitious, you're likely to get discouraged and give up. On the other hand, if your goals are too easy, you won't feel a sense of accomplishment when you achieve them. Try to find a happy medium, and be realistic about what you can accomplish.

4. Make a plan: Once you've set your goals, come up with a plan for how you're going to achieve them. This might include creating a schedule, setting aside specific times to work on your goals, or finding accountability partners to help keep you on track. Having a plan in place will help you stay focused and motivated.

5. Celebrate your successes: Don't forget to celebrate your achievements along the way! When you reach a milestone or accomplish one of your goals, take the time to celebrate and reward yourself. This will help keep you motivated and remind you of how far you've come.

By following these tips, you can set realistic new year's resolutions that will help you make positive changes in your life and start the new year off on the right foot.

Namaskar!

Will

How can I get over the post holiday blues

 

I hope everyone had a good holiday - but even so, there's often a letdown after the excitement and preparation of the holidays.

If you're feeling down after the holiday season, there are a few steps you can take to help get over the post-holiday blues. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Get moving: Exercise can be a great way to lift your mood and improve your overall well-being. Even if you're not feeling particularly motivated, try to get some physical activity every day. It could be as simple as taking a walk around the block or doing some stretching at home.

2. Connect with others: It's natural to feel a little isolated after the holiday season, when many of your friends and family members may have returned to their own homes. Take the time to reach out to people you care about and plan some social activities. This can help you feel more connected and supported.

3. Set some goals: The start of a new year is a great time to set some goals for yourself. This can give you a sense of purpose and direction, and help you focus on the things that are most important to you. Try to set goals that are realistic and achievable, and break them down into smaller steps so that you can make steady progress towards achieving them.

4. Take care of yourself: It's important to prioritize your own well-being, especially when you're feeling down. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking time for yourself to relax and recharge. Taking care of yourself can help you feel more energized and positive, and better able to cope with any challenges that come your way.

By following these tips, you can help to overcome the post-holiday blues and start the new year off on the right foot. Remember that it's okay to feel down sometimes, but with a little effort and support from others, you can bounce back and get back to feeling your best.

Namaskar!

 

Will

DO THIS if you’re in police custody after a self-defense incident!

While the USCCA is trying to sell you a membership, the advice given here is just as valid to a non-member as a member. You have contacted a criminal defense lawyer well ahead of time and have their contact information in your phone and hardcopy in your wallet, right?

How to Sight In a Red Dot on your Pistol

Very well explained and useful information. 

Sighting at 10 yards, makes MOA adjustments on your sight simple - if 1 click = 1 MOA (1") at 100 yards, then 1 click will be 1/10th of an inch at 10 yards. Also easier to see the center of target at 10 yards with a non-magnified red dot than at 25 yards.  Courtesy Vortex Optics.

What is the meaning of Christmas to non or nominally religious people?

 

At the Church of the Resurrection in the Kansas City area, their mission is providing ministry to non and nominally religious people, teaching them the good news of Christianity. One of the holidays most masticated with Christianity is Christmas.  So, what does Christmas mean to non or nominally religious people? 

For many non-religious or nominally religious people, the meaning of Christmas goes beyond its religious origins. While Christmas is traditionally associated with the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, for many people, it has become a secular holiday that is focused on spending time with loved ones, giving and receiving gifts, and celebrating the end of the year.

For some non-religious or nominally religious people, Christmas is a time to take a break from the busyness of everyday life and focus on the things that matter most. It can be a time to reconnect with family and friends, and to reflect on the past year and look forward to the year ahead.

For others, Christmas is a time to celebrate the traditions and customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Whether it's decorating a Christmas tree, singing carols, or enjoying a special meal together, these traditions can bring people together and create a sense of community and belonging.

Despite the commercialization of Christmas, for many non-religious or nominally religious people, the holiday still holds a special meaning. It can be a time to remember the important things in life, to express gratitude and generosity, and to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.

Bright Blessings!

Will

Tips for making a good holiday video

 Home for the holidays!  And you've got that new DSLR, smartphone or point and shoot camera that can make 4K cinematic videos - so you want to capture the holiday memories in video!  A couple of tips to make sure your holiday video is as good as your memories:

1. Plan ahead: Before you start shooting, take some time to plan out your video. Think about the story you want to tell, the locations you want to include, and the shots you want to capture. Having a plan in place will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you get the shots you need.

2. Use good lighting: Good lighting is essential for high-quality videos. When shooting indoors, try to use natural light as much as possible, and avoid using flash if you can. If you're shooting outdoors, pay attention to the time of day and the direction of the light to ensure that your shots are well-lit and free of harsh shadows.

3. Use a tripod: A tripod will help you keep your camera steady and avoid shaky shots. This is especially important if you're shooting in low light conditions, or if you're using a long focal length lens. A tripod will also give you the flexibility to frame your shots more carefully and compose them in a way that is visually appealing.

4. Edit your footage: After you've shot your video, take the time to edit it carefully. Use a video editing program to trim and arrange your footage, and add any special effects or transitions that you want to include. This will help you tell your story more effectively and create a polished, professional-looking video.

5. Share your video: Once your video is complete, share it with your friends and family! You can upload it to social media, email it to loved ones, or even send it out as a holiday greeting. Sharing your video will help you spread holiday cheer and connect with the people you care about.

By following these tips, you can create a high-quality holiday video that will capture the spirit of the season and bring joy to those who watch it. Happy holidays!

 

Will

5 Tips on taking good holiday photos

Holiday gatherings are coming soon, and everyone will want a good photo to remember the good times - and all it takes are a few simple steps.  You don't even need fancy cameras, lighting or experience posing people!
 

1.  Plan ahead: Before you head out on your holiday adventure, take some time to plan out your photo shoots. Think about the types of photos you want to take and the locations where you'll be taking them. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you get the shots you want.
2.  Use natural light: Natural light is your best friend when it comes to taking good holiday photos. Try to avoid using flash whenever possible, as it can create harsh shadows and wash out the colors in your photos. Instead, look for well-lit areas where you can capture the beautiful natural light of your surroundings.
3.  Get creative with composition: Composition is an important aspect of photography, and it can really make your holiday photos stand out. Try using creative angles, framing, and leading lines to add interest to your photos. You can also experiment with different focal lengths to create a sense of depth and perspective. (You can fake this in the 'pro' mode of your cell phone camera!)
   
4. Edit your photos: While it's important to get the best possible shot straight out of the camera, editing your photos can take them to the next level. Use a photo editing program to adjust the exposure, contrast, and colors in your photos to make them pop. Just be sure to keep your edits subtle, as over-editing can ruin a good photo. (Google Photos is a great free editor for your phone, and gets it right more often than not!)
   
5. Have fun: Above all, remember to have fun when taking holiday photos. Don't worry about getting the perfect shot every time; just enjoy the experience and capture the moments that matter to you. By focusing on the joy of the season, you'll end up with photos that truly capture the spirit of the holidays.

May your holiday season be joyful and bright!

Namakar,

Will

Sig Sauer X-TEN Shooting 220 Grain Underwood Hardcast Rounds

 Got out to the range today for some ballistic therapy; did some video editing later for some geek therapy and came up with my first YouTube vertical 'Short' video.  Captured at 4K60 by the Samsung Note 20 Ultra, cropped, zoomed and color corrected in DaVinci Resolve.  Enjoy a few rounds of 220 grain hardcast lead ammo poking holes in paper!  (Youtube doesn't allow embedding of Shorts, or Blogger can't figure out how to do it, so here's a local copy - like, share and comment on the original at https://youtube.com/shorts/4THznb2YN_8?feature=share

Namaskar!

 

Stiff-person syndrome - What is it?

 

Recently in the news with Celine Dion announcing she had Stiff person syndrome (SPS), I wanted to look into what  Stiff person syndrome is.   Stiff person syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that is characterized by stiffness and muscle spasms in the trunk and limbs. The stiffness and spasms can range from mild to severe, and they can be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty walking, tremors, and anxiety. Despite the challenges posed by SPS, there are many ways to manage the condition and lead a fulfilling life.

One of the most important things for people with SPS is to work closely with their healthcare team. This team may include a neurologist, physical therapist, and other healthcare providers who can help develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual's needs. Treatment may include medications to reduce muscle stiffness and spasms, as well as physical therapy to help improve flexibility and mobility.

In addition to working with a healthcare team, there are also a number of self-care strategies that can help people with SPS manage their symptoms. These may include regular exercise, such as stretching and low-impact activities like swimming or walking. It can also be helpful to practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to reduce anxiety and muscle tension.

It's also important for people with SPS to take care of their overall health. This may include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding triggers that can worsen symptoms. For some people, certain medications, alcohol, or stress can exacerbate their symptoms, so it's important to identify and avoid these triggers.

Living with SPS can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help. Support groups and online forums can provide a sense of community and offer valuable advice and support from others who are living with the condition. Additionally, organizations such as the Stiff Person Syndrome Foundation provide information and resources for people with SPS and their loved ones.

In conclusion, stiff person syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that can cause stiffness and muscle spasms. While there is no cure for SPS, there are many ways to manage the condition and lead a fulfilling life. By working closely with a healthcare team, practicing self-care strategies, and seeking support from others, people with SPS can find ways to manage their symptoms and live well.

Blessings and healing to all!

Namaskar,

Will

Coming up with new ideas for blogging

 

Coming up with good ideas for blog posts can be a challenging task, especially if you're a blogger who has been at it for a while and you're starting to feel like you've run out of ideas. (Hi, my name is Will and I've been blogging since 2005)  But fear not! There are plenty of ways to generate new ideas for blog posts, and in this article, we'll go over a few of the most effective ones.

One of the best ways to come up with new ideas for blog posts is to take a step back and think about your blog's overall goal or purpose. Why do you have a blog in the first place? What do you want to achieve with it? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your focus and come up with ideas that are more closely aligned with your blog's mission.  (Big issue here as this blog has so many different tangents depending on what I'm interested in that week!)

Another effective method for generating ideas for blog posts is to look at what other bloggers in your niche are writing about. This can give you a sense of what topics are currently popular and can inspire you to write about similar topics from your own unique perspective. You can also use tools like Google Trends to see what topics are currently trending and consider writing about those.

Another great way to come up with ideas for blog posts is to simply look at the world around you and think about what's happening in your own life. What are you currently interested in or passionate about? What are the current events or issues that are on your mind? These things can all provide great inspiration for blog posts, and writing about them can help you connect with your readers on a deeper level.   (This, seems to be my raison d'être)

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of posts. In addition to traditional written blog posts, you can try writing video blog posts, creating photo essays, or even conducting interviews with interesting people in your field. This can help you mix things up and keep your content fresh and interesting. (Hm - interviews. Then I'd have to talk to people.  Hmmm..)

In conclusion, coming up with good ideas for blog posts doesn't have to be difficult. By focusing on your blog's purpose, looking at what others in your niche are writing about, and taking inspiration from your own life and experiences, you can generate a steady stream of ideas for blog posts that will keep your readers engaged and coming back for more.

Namaskar!

Will

Rejoyce on this Third Sunday of Advent!

 

The third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, is a time for Methodists to celebrate and give thanks for the joy and hope that comes from the Christmas season. This joy and hope is rooted in the belief that God became man in the form of Jesus Christ, and through his birth, humanity was offered salvation and the promise of eternal life.

On Gaudete Sunday, Methodists are encouraged to take time to focus on the things that bring them joy and to share that joy with others. This can be done through acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others. It is also a time to reflect on the coming of Jesus and the hope that he brings to the world.

One way that Methodists can celebrate Gaudete Sunday is by participating in their church's Advent services and activities. These may include singing hymns, lighting candles, and reading passages from the Bible that relate to the coming of Jesus. Additionally, Methodists can celebrate Gaudete Sunday by spending time with loved ones and participating in activities that bring them joy and meaning.

In a world that can often be filled with strife and uncertainty, Gaudete Sunday offers a message of hope and joy. It reminds us that no matter how difficult things may seem, there is always something to be grateful for and something to celebrate. So on this Gaudete Sunday, let us take time to embrace the joy and hope that comes from the birth of Jesus, and let it inspire us to live lives that are filled with compassion, kindness, and love.

Namaskar!

Will

Why should a 50 year old buy a liter-class sportbike?

 

There are a few reasons why a 50 year old man might want to consider purchasing a 1000cc sport bike. For one, riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling and enjoyable experience, and a 1000cc sport bike offers plenty of power and performance for a truly exhilarating ride. Additionally, a 1000cc sport bike can be a good way for a 50 year old man to stay active and engaged, as it requires a certain level of physical fitness and coordination to ride safely.

Another potential reason for a 50 year old man to buy a 1000cc sportbike is for the sense of freedom and independence that comes with motorcycle ownership. With a motorcycle, a person can hit the open road and enjoy the wind in their hair, without being constrained by the limitations of a car. This can be especially appealing for someone who is approaching retirement age and looking for new ways to experience the world.

Of course, it is important for a 50 year old man (or anyone considering purchasing a motorcycle) to carefully consider their physical abilities and experience level before making a decision. Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, and it is essential to prioritize safety and take the time to learn the proper techniques and skills. However, for someone who is in good health and has a passion for riding, a 1000cc sportbike can be a rewarding and exciting purchase.

So, should I be looking at Honda, Yamaha, or the insanity of BMW or Ducati?  😁

Namaskar,

Will

See you on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, SamTheDog

 Putting a beloved pet to sleep is never an easy decision, but sometimes it is necessary for the sake of the animal's well-being. This was the case for my black lab, SamTheDog, who I had to put down after he stopped eating and his health rapidly declined.

I had gotten SamTheDog as a young down (9 mo old) in 2008, and he quickly became a cherished member of my family. He was full of energy and had a love for life that was contagious. We would go on long walks and runs together, and he would always be ready to play fetch or play with his rope toy.

As he got older,SamTheDog started to slow down and spend more time napping, but he was still happy and healthy. That all changed when he stopped eating. At first, I thought it was just a temporary loss of appetite, but it quickly became clear that something was seriously wrong.

About a week ago he stopped eating.  A couple off days ago he stopped drinking water.  That was when I knew it was his time.  I knew that it was the right thing to do. I didn't want SamTheDog to suffer any longer, and I wanted to remember him as the lively and happy dog that he was.

The day of the euthanasia was one of the hardest days of my life. I held SamTheDog in my arms as the vet administered the medication that would end his life. I felt a mix of emotions: sadness, guilt, and relief.

As I said goodbye to SamTheDog, I couldn't help but think about all the happy memories we had shared together. I will always cherish those memories and be grateful for the love and companionship that he gave me.

Putting SamTheDog to sleep was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, but I know that it was the right decision. It was a difficult decision to make, but I made it with the best interests of my beloved pet in mind. I will always miss him, but I am grateful for the time we had together.

 Namaskar,

Will