I’m still loving my original iPad from May 2010 – yes, I do call it “Mr. Smudgy.” Although it’s close to 2 years old, it’s still going strong and able to handle anything I give it. The release of the iPad 3 does have me concerned since I know Apple will eventually make it obsolete by not updating the software to run it. Already, iPhoto for iPad is for version 2 or later since it requires a front camera to use it. Why this is necessary is beyond my comprehension because you can easily get photos from an iTouch via iCloud or simply use the Apple supplied SD card reader to transfer images from a camera. Apple can’t be that short-sighted so I must assume they want people with the original iPad to considered upgrading now.

While some aspects of the new iPad are attractive (ability to create a Wifi hotspot for one) but there is nothing truly compelling me to upgrade. Thanks, Apple, for making such a great product in the original iPad. It’s one of the best technology investments I’ve ever bought.

I sometimes wish the iPad were lighter but I wonder if the iPad 2 is appreciably different. I’m not lusting for the dual cameras on the iPad 2, either. Also, I’m lucky to have the discontinued unlimited data plan on AT&T and I can use it nearly everywhere I go.

What I really covet is the Smart Cover! I need a light but effective cover that can double as a stand when I type on the iPad. That fact that it also turns the iPad on or off is just the icing on the cake.

Apple, please make a Smart Cover for the original iPad!

I have the unlimited plan from AT&T so while waiting at the doctor’s office I could surf to my heart’s content. I get good reception in Metro stations and in some of the tunnels, too. I haven’t tried to upload every app in creation and most of the ones from my iTouch work just fine on the iPad.

Is it perfect? Of course not. In some environments the screen is horribly reflective and it’s very headache making, Sometimes the keyboard is a little too sensitive but that will take practice. And, yes, it’s very smudgy.

However, if you are Ike me and don’t really need a laptop but would like to keep in touch, surf, Facebook, watch movies & TV, listen to music and read books, this could be the device for you.

Now I’m on the lookout for a decent bag and perhaps some Bluetooth headphones. Any suggestions out there?

Yes, I did write this entry from my iPad but the Woodpress interface is a little chunky and hard to figure out how to publish.

Real-world iPad annoyances: A timeline | Rafe’s Radar – CNET News

How cheap can you get! Apple puts out the iPad and doesn’t even include the Chamois that the iTouch and iPhone get. This is a device that begs to be touched and you know it’s going to look ugly real quick.

The article goes on to moan about other issues and omissions – mostly warranted I have to admit.

However, I still want one.

Tags: Apple, iPad, touch, gadgets, iTouch, iPhone, technology, computer

September 11 | StoryCorps
I know I’m late with the 9/11 stuff but so what. I’ve mentioned StoryCorps before but I recently found out that they are working in partnership with the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, the Families of September 11 and 9/11 Forward, in Baldwin, NY to record stories from the families and friends of 9/11 victims. This is what memorials should be about: the individuals involved not the flags and speeches. If you can, listen to a few of the stories and remember. Have tissues handy – trust me.

If you can, give a little to StoryCorps – it’s a great organization.

Tags: StoryCorps, 9/11, World Trade Center, life, memorials, September 11

Tags: Metro, travel, WashingtonDC, commuting, masss-transit, airports, Labor Day

Why do I feel guilty that I’ve joined Facebook? Why does it feel like it’s taken over my on-line life? I’ve been stripped down to tiny comments and links but I wonder if my content there is probably similar to what I was posting here? I’ve rarely updated my blog since joining. I feel guilty about that, too.

I do like the fact that I can keep tabs on my relatives so easily. I used to feel so isolated and detached from them but now I’m more aware of them on a daily/weekly basis rather than the just the yearly cards at Christmas.

Perhaps it comes down to quality versus quantity. I feel compelled to post something of relative substance on the blog but I revel in the amount of cosy, if inane, chatter on Facebook.

Do I really have enough to say that it’s worth saying to everyone or should I limit myself to my 23 Facebook friends?

I will make an effort to continue both for a while. Please comment if you have thoughts on the matter.

A while back I bemoaned the loss of Polaroid film. Here’s a site with a great response.

Tags: culture, photography, Polaroid

Gallery installs Eunice Kennedy Shriver portrait – BostonHerald.com

It’s a good painting – meticulousiy rendered but not overwrought. I love the fact that this is a portrait of a woman who doesn’t need to be flattered. Her face shows all the pain and joy of living 87 years. It’s wonderful to see a portrait reveal something about a person’s interests and achievements instead of just their appearance.

It’s now on view at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC (hence the shameless plug).

Tags: life, portrait, museum, NationalPortrait Gallery, painting, portraiture, culture, Washington

How Now, Wench? Talking Like Shakespeare : NPR

Great idea! Listen to the podcast to hear Chicagoans brave the bard’s style.

Tags: culture, life, Shakespeare, fun