Monday, March 25, 2013
Decisions, Decisions.
Currently, I am shopping for a 88-key, weighted hammer, digital piano. Over the past couple months I have scoured the Internet reading reviews and forums and to date, I have read over 40 PDF product manuals. I have visited the San Francisco bay area 3 times to visit various music stores where I could get my hands on the main three pianos I am interested in. Today I spent another 2 hours in San Francisco trying digitals and here are my notes.
I checked out the Roland 700NX. Very nice keybed (right on par with CP5, a bit different) clean piano sound and nice interface. I also enjoyed playing it and I noticed the wood keys straight away. Bummer on the transpose which must be held down for 2 seconds before getting a menu. But, playing this keyboard, gives me "hope" about the A88. NEXT.
Korg Kronos is a very neat synth, a bit pricey, that I would be interested in learning; like how I felt back when I bought into MOTIF.XS, however, Kronos is pricey and not as nice as the 700NX and also does not sport live.transpose. NEXT.
Kurzweil PC3LE8 nice piano sound, plays nice, but I just didn't like the keybed; felt like plastic, no transpose. NEXT.
AKAI MPK88. Keyboard just okay. Knobs and sliders I already have on MOTIF.XS, entire keyboard felt cheap. NEXT.
Yamaha MOX8. Very much duplication of my MOTIF.XS (which isn't a bad thing) and my familiarity of XS makes this board easy to play. The plastic graded hammer action is easy to play and grows on you quickly. I thought about using this board to play samples and plugins, but then my mind wandered to Roland's A88. The MOX8 also has no.brainer vocoder, USB audio interface, and remote.DAW controller; which is a step up from my XS6. But right now I am buying 88.weighted keys. Transpose is spot.on.nice right up on deck and works great!
Roland FP4F. Nice piano; as is 700NX. no transpose. NEXT.
Yamaha MOTIF.XF8 could be my real solution; but if I go this route, I will probably sell my XS6. I have a Korg.i3 so this gives me a 61-synth key for organs, etc. But I would want to sell my XS6 first to apply that money towards MOTIF.XF8, will have to sleep on this idea. My MOTIF.XS6 has all the extras which could command an easy $2400 selling price to the right customer. 1gb.sampler.ram, FC3.damper, mLAN.firewire, $600++.samples, brandnew.wheel.case, onstage.pro.x stand, unopened.unregistered CubaseAI and all printed manuals.
Yamaha CP5. This keyboard did not surprise me at all. What I mean is the CP5 is in its own world. Other keyboards call themselves stage.pianos but this is the real deal. From the moment you power it on to the gas.flourescent display, the CP5 breathes an entirely different feel. The interface is NOT intuitive; but it IS Yamaha, which still feels nice. I LIKE THE KNOBS. The CP5 is designed to be played live and the controls are made for you to taylor that experience. All of the sounds in the CP5 are excellent. It will take me some time to get up to speed with the Spectral Component Modulation controls, but inside of an hour using the CP5, already, the buttons and knobs were making "Yamaha-sense" to me. The shorter.throw wooden keybed on the CP5 played nicely and responded well. Although the keystroke seemed short, the SCM offers very smooth sensitivity at all velocity levels. From zero to pounding on the keys and everything in between. I was impressed. Transpose. I had read ahead of time about it using a single knob to advance 1/2 steps. When I got to the store, I immediately pressed Transpose and turned the knob 1 click. I wished the click was firmer but inside playing for 45 minutues I goofed twice using the transpose. Not bad, 28 successful transposes in 30 tries; and by that time I had got better at using the knob. I can live with the knob in lieu of the other qualities this keyboard breathes.
For those of you who may have asked, what about PhantomG? CP33? CP50? Well, stack them up on the no.transpose pile. NEXT.
WHICH ONE TO BUY:
Strait away either the CP5 or A88 appear to be my best choices. I wish I was paying cash. Guitar Center is selling their floor model CP5 for $1600 which is $1000 off the price! But, I am buying at AMS with other studio gear on 8.payments. I walked away satisfied that I played a Yamaha.CP5 today. My fingers felt like they got a little workout, but nothing like playing Yamaha's Balanced Hammer (BH) like on the XS8 and XF8. The MOX8 is a really good choice if you don't have any other synth in your collection, but for me, it duplicates a bit too much and the idea of using a MOX8 to play sounds in my XS6 just seems plain dumb. But, I would do it. The MOX8 is very capable. On the other hand, playing the CP5 to drive sounds in the XS6 makes sense now. But then my mind wanders and I say do that with the Roland A88 and save $1500.dollars! I really did like the Roland.RD700NX but honestly, the transpose button is part of my playing style and IS a deal breaker for me.
So, do I sell my MOTIF.XS6 and buy balanced hammer MOTIF.XF8? or do I get the Roland.A88 to master my MOTIF.XS6? or do I go for the gusto and buy the CP5 as if its the last piano I ever buy? decisions, decisions; will give much more thought and run all this through a few more spreadsheets.
SCORECARD:
Feel? Yamaha CP5
Practical? A88 with XS6
Solution? XF8 sell XS6
Price? MOX8
HHNET
Saturday, March 02, 2013
Effort
Many people [I think] wonder why people blog, Twitter and post status updates on Facebook. Although I am no expert on this phenomenon, I do understand the dynamics of why blogging is important, as I will attempt to explain here. Effort.
In 1993, I sustained a brain injury during the course of a car vs. motorcycle accident. Since that time, I have battled what seemed to be insurmountable challenges which took great effort to overcome. Today some of this is still true, whereas I still deal with the onslaught of morbid headaches. But, for the most part, I have won the war with headaches.
This past eighteen-months is another story, for I suddenly was stricken with ulnar neuropathy in both of my arms. This condition appeared with little or no warning. Due to fear, I began scrambling and playing guitar and piano more than I usually would, but it was not helping. And as the days and weeks went by, I was losing ability. Here is where sheer terror began for me.
On January 14th of this year I had my first surgery for ulnar decompression. I've been told the surgery was a success in that, during the surgery they found exactly what was causing the problem. However, while I am recuperating post-surgery, it is very frustrating and disappointing in that I have not regained ability and the numbness and original problem(s) are still present. This faking it until you make it, doesn't work too well with me. Nor am I accepting it very well. Some people might be led to say, "getting old ain't for whimps" and they would be correct. And although there is some accuracy to that statement, it really isn't what is troubling me the most.
Creativity through my hands has always been a huge benefit in my life. And even during the horrendous brain injury experience, I had full use of my hands! Lately, I have even said outloud, "give me a headache any day, but give me my hands back".
A few months ago I began using speech to text translation tools, such as Siri Dictation on my iPad. While this is convenient and works very well, I would be a liar if I said I wasn't upset about the fact that I was needing to use such a tool. I appreciate that this utility is available to me and without question it is helping very much. But, I am not quick to accept needing such a device. There is a part of me that thinks if I accept this to be true, then that sets into motion the possibility of losing ability altogether.
Now months later, I luckily won my battle with depression. And, did so without becoming an alcoholic. Other people who I have spoken to about this condition were not so lucky. It is very trying and takes great emotional effort. It isn't like a challenging job where more energy, time or patience may be required. I have energy, I'm now retired and have time; and contrary to popular belief, I have much more patience than most people give me credit for. But, in this case, they would be right. And perhaps, this would be my first time to admit to my impatience in this matter. I am use to Harry fixing things with record-breaking speed. But, this is not the case now. And, when the thought of your mortality kicks in, then you're in trouble. But again, this is also true. Afterall, I am 59 years of age, and as much as I would like to believe I am 9 years old; the fact is, I am not.
So, with all of this said I am redefining my efforts. Taking clear and concise inventory in order to implement the best choices that I can possibly make now.
In order to refuel my musical vocation, I am having my instruments reworked with hopes of them being able to be easier to play. I have found a new guitar I plan to order which will also help in this quest. I've decided to take another stab at setting up my music studio in a new location, with better tools, better technology and a more realistic attitude with regards to what I expect from my efforts.
Standing back and looking at the big picture, I now see this as the same story that has been unfolding for the past 30 years; this is simply another chapter to that same story. But until very recently, I did not know this. Everything in my life always came to me so easily. Not that everything was given to me in life. But rather, I did not have to expend much effort to do anything. I was smart. I was quick, agile, witty and knew how to navigate everything. Then I grew up [a little bit]. Now I must expend effort too. The same effort every body else must exert every day of their lives. And perhaps this helps me to join the human race all the more. Now I have something more in common with everyone.
Now I must apply effort.
In 1993, I sustained a brain injury during the course of a car vs. motorcycle accident. Since that time, I have battled what seemed to be insurmountable challenges which took great effort to overcome. Today some of this is still true, whereas I still deal with the onslaught of morbid headaches. But, for the most part, I have won the war with headaches.
This past eighteen-months is another story, for I suddenly was stricken with ulnar neuropathy in both of my arms. This condition appeared with little or no warning. Due to fear, I began scrambling and playing guitar and piano more than I usually would, but it was not helping. And as the days and weeks went by, I was losing ability. Here is where sheer terror began for me.
On January 14th of this year I had my first surgery for ulnar decompression. I've been told the surgery was a success in that, during the surgery they found exactly what was causing the problem. However, while I am recuperating post-surgery, it is very frustrating and disappointing in that I have not regained ability and the numbness and original problem(s) are still present. This faking it until you make it, doesn't work too well with me. Nor am I accepting it very well. Some people might be led to say, "getting old ain't for whimps" and they would be correct. And although there is some accuracy to that statement, it really isn't what is troubling me the most.
Creativity through my hands has always been a huge benefit in my life. And even during the horrendous brain injury experience, I had full use of my hands! Lately, I have even said outloud, "give me a headache any day, but give me my hands back".
A few months ago I began using speech to text translation tools, such as Siri Dictation on my iPad. While this is convenient and works very well, I would be a liar if I said I wasn't upset about the fact that I was needing to use such a tool. I appreciate that this utility is available to me and without question it is helping very much. But, I am not quick to accept needing such a device. There is a part of me that thinks if I accept this to be true, then that sets into motion the possibility of losing ability altogether.
Now months later, I luckily won my battle with depression. And, did so without becoming an alcoholic. Other people who I have spoken to about this condition were not so lucky. It is very trying and takes great emotional effort. It isn't like a challenging job where more energy, time or patience may be required. I have energy, I'm now retired and have time; and contrary to popular belief, I have much more patience than most people give me credit for. But, in this case, they would be right. And perhaps, this would be my first time to admit to my impatience in this matter. I am use to Harry fixing things with record-breaking speed. But, this is not the case now. And, when the thought of your mortality kicks in, then you're in trouble. But again, this is also true. Afterall, I am 59 years of age, and as much as I would like to believe I am 9 years old; the fact is, I am not.
So, with all of this said I am redefining my efforts. Taking clear and concise inventory in order to implement the best choices that I can possibly make now.
In order to refuel my musical vocation, I am having my instruments reworked with hopes of them being able to be easier to play. I have found a new guitar I plan to order which will also help in this quest. I've decided to take another stab at setting up my music studio in a new location, with better tools, better technology and a more realistic attitude with regards to what I expect from my efforts.
Standing back and looking at the big picture, I now see this as the same story that has been unfolding for the past 30 years; this is simply another chapter to that same story. But until very recently, I did not know this. Everything in my life always came to me so easily. Not that everything was given to me in life. But rather, I did not have to expend much effort to do anything. I was smart. I was quick, agile, witty and knew how to navigate everything. Then I grew up [a little bit]. Now I must expend effort too. The same effort every body else must exert every day of their lives. And perhaps this helps me to join the human race all the more. Now I have something more in common with everyone.
Now I must apply effort.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Survival Simplification
Well, so much for blogging every week. But, I will keep trying to blog once a week.
January 14th I had surgery on my left arm for ulnar neuropathy. Thus far, it seems like nothing is better post surgery, to the point of being worse.
Music has declined. No guitar playing. Hardly ukulele but I keep trying. I am able to tinker with the MOTIF synth but I become physically tired quickly. Some days my hand and arm are tired when I wake up. This is a disturbing new truth for me.
Of course, as you might suspect, using computers of any kind has become an enemy to my hand and arm. Including iPad. Many days, just holding the iPad is asking too much.
So, what's next? Well, I am contemplating that. I know that I am going to need to shift my life into a new direction. This is not going to be a pleasant decision. I know, for now, that music is going to get put on the back burner [again] for "x_" amount of time. This is most disturbing and emotionally upsetting for me. But, hey... that's life, right?
The first thought that comes to mind is survival simplification. This entails doing whatever creates the least amount of stress for my hand and arm. Also, the main thrust here is to improve the quality of life as well. Obviously, computers need to take back seat, as in like 90% of the time. How does a person do that? I suppose I am going to learn how.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Getting Up To Speed
Gee whiz, it is 2013 already!
Some of you know that I have not blogged in quite some time. Lots has happened since the last time I shared about my life here.
I have committed to blogging once a week now and hope this becomes interesting to a few of my fans. Since I began the 01X iPad Recording group on Facebook, more people with my same interests have joined me making life much more appealing.
Right now I am dealing with ulnar neuropathy in both arms and hands. That's a fancy medical term meaning I have numbness and fine motor control issues. JAN 14th I had surgery on my left arm and it is recuperating well, although numbness is still present. It will be close to 6 months post surgery before any determination can be made whether or not the surgery was truly a success. And, as of now I am electing NOT to get the surgery done for my right arm. My right hand is 90% percent better than the left and unless I notice things getting much worse in my right hand, I am not going to complicate things with surgery.
Recording >sigh< what can I say. We moved two times since our leaving behind the NASAV motorhome in 2011. My studio space had been basically eliminated. I had set up in a temporary fashion in other locations, but never was able to create what I consider to be a productive space with workflow.
Now nearly 2 years later I feel exhausted from the lack of production. I lost a lot of momentum and kinetic energy since the RV studio setup. A few months ago I was determined to figure out a way to setup here and get back to recording. The idea of having a couple portable stands with my gear on them appealed to my thinking. Setting up usually requires nothing less than a 6-foot table and this time around I really didn't want to set up that way. Thus came the idea of StudioStands™ which I drew onto paper, then redrew on my iPad using iDraw and I submitted the design to Nedtronics for consideration. A month later the parts were already getting milled and machined and by Christmas 2012 they were ready for pickup. I had a couple extra ideas for the stands which delayed my taking them until JAN 2013. So now I am excited to finally use them in my new studio.
So, as the titile of this blog implies, I AM getting up to speed again and I will blog about it here weekly as things progress.
Some of you know that I have not blogged in quite some time. Lots has happened since the last time I shared about my life here.
I have committed to blogging once a week now and hope this becomes interesting to a few of my fans. Since I began the 01X iPad Recording group on Facebook, more people with my same interests have joined me making life much more appealing.
Right now I am dealing with ulnar neuropathy in both arms and hands. That's a fancy medical term meaning I have numbness and fine motor control issues. JAN 14th I had surgery on my left arm and it is recuperating well, although numbness is still present. It will be close to 6 months post surgery before any determination can be made whether or not the surgery was truly a success. And, as of now I am electing NOT to get the surgery done for my right arm. My right hand is 90% percent better than the left and unless I notice things getting much worse in my right hand, I am not going to complicate things with surgery.
Recording >sigh< what can I say. We moved two times since our leaving behind the NASAV motorhome in 2011. My studio space had been basically eliminated. I had set up in a temporary fashion in other locations, but never was able to create what I consider to be a productive space with workflow.
Now nearly 2 years later I feel exhausted from the lack of production. I lost a lot of momentum and kinetic energy since the RV studio setup. A few months ago I was determined to figure out a way to setup here and get back to recording. The idea of having a couple portable stands with my gear on them appealed to my thinking. Setting up usually requires nothing less than a 6-foot table and this time around I really didn't want to set up that way. Thus came the idea of StudioStands™ which I drew onto paper, then redrew on my iPad using iDraw and I submitted the design to Nedtronics for consideration. A month later the parts were already getting milled and machined and by Christmas 2012 they were ready for pickup. I had a couple extra ideas for the stands which delayed my taking them until JAN 2013. So now I am excited to finally use them in my new studio.
So, as the titile of this blog implies, I AM getting up to speed again and I will blog about it here weekly as things progress.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Exciting Times
It's been awhile since I have blogged. Been busy with a mixture of motor home life, writing and recording songs, learning more and more about recording, teaching myself how to use audio gear, website design and content creation, and then the iPad.
Things have settled down somewhat. Of course, when I say this, I don't mean to suggest that I have completed my original projects that I had set out to achieve some four years ago. Far from it. I am now just nudging up to production and completion of some projects while others are still burning the midnight oil.
When I said "settled down" what I was trying to describe is that I have studied and learned a wrath of knowledge, across a large precipass of technology and topics. Using iPad now fuel injects my reading life about 6 hours a day. Now I am in the groove with many of my daily and nightly activities which still account for the original design of many projects that were dreamt up years ago.
Such as recording music. This idea has turned out to be a much larger undertaking than I would have ever imagined. Starting with the idea of a studio in a small motor home to learning many new pieces of hardware and software in order to use the equipment involved to record said music. Then there are the songs themselves which always need adjustment and arrangement. But, I'm in the groove and on track, and bit by bit, song by song, my record album moves forward. A few times I thought I would quit, and choose to release a single song. Some people have asked me, "Why don't you?" And, my answer is, "I set out to record a record album of 10 songs, perhaps more, and for the sake of the principle, I shall continue my effort".
Meanwhile, the end result of recording music and replicating CD's will require websites. Now the design and content creation for HappyHarryNET has been on the back burner for years now. I haven't submitted much content to my site in quite some time. The site has been "functional" for those who lean on its usefulness. Web traffic has drastically reduced in three years, after all, I don't SEO or run any advertisement to draw traffic to my site and that is just as well because there is no new content anyhow. But, this is changing soon.
Recently I have delved into Adobe's Creative Cloud program and I am enjoying the new apps and cloud system. Additionally, the TouchApps for iPad really enhance this entire package. It is great to relax and draw wireframe layouts, with text, colors, menus and animation. If an idea works you load it from the cloud into Photoshop, Illustrator, Fireworks, Muse or Dreamweaver on the Mac and go full boar with it. This is a game changer because I used to do most of this on a legal pad. Now, there is no more double work. My ideas are captured and stored in the cloud. Then those ideas can go directly into the appropriate app to further enhance, embellish or produce their final results. The quality is stunning also.
Same goes for songwriting. I use GarageBand on iPad to capture immediate musical ideas. GarageBand for iPad is great because everything captured goes to the cloud, so no musical ideas are lost. They are easy to recall and my songwriting production has tripled. I can easily go back in time and work on songs, take the songs into Logic Studio for production or sometimes I will produce them right in GarageBand and flush out an idea quickly. The iPad has relaxed this entire operation. I no longer have to race to my MOTIF workstation to capture a song idea. Now the MOTIF is Step_2 in the chain and I like it.
Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion is a great operating system and it's like having a new Mac! My MacBook is almost 4 years old and to this day seems like a brand new computer. My almost 3 year old Toshiba Qosmio i7 power house laptop is gathering dust. I have grown weary with the repetitive problems associated with Windows. Since my using iPad, my tolerance for such frustrating hardware and software has become zero. Thus, I am really enjoying the Mac again. The iPad is now a content creation tool and is serving me well.
If all of this was not enough, I am specializing in technology research and have began the incarnation of a new podcast that will probably be called, "The PowerHouse Show". Right now we're kicking around some ideas and testing various spots to see how we wish to do this. I am choosing a couple people to co-host the show with me. I think I will initially release the show as a SpreakerCast and to Facebook. If the show survives that, then we will move on to the iTunes Store with a Podcast. It is my hope this project will survive to evolve into a video show.
HHNET
Things have settled down somewhat. Of course, when I say this, I don't mean to suggest that I have completed my original projects that I had set out to achieve some four years ago. Far from it. I am now just nudging up to production and completion of some projects while others are still burning the midnight oil.
When I said "settled down" what I was trying to describe is that I have studied and learned a wrath of knowledge, across a large precipass of technology and topics. Using iPad now fuel injects my reading life about 6 hours a day. Now I am in the groove with many of my daily and nightly activities which still account for the original design of many projects that were dreamt up years ago.
Such as recording music. This idea has turned out to be a much larger undertaking than I would have ever imagined. Starting with the idea of a studio in a small motor home to learning many new pieces of hardware and software in order to use the equipment involved to record said music. Then there are the songs themselves which always need adjustment and arrangement. But, I'm in the groove and on track, and bit by bit, song by song, my record album moves forward. A few times I thought I would quit, and choose to release a single song. Some people have asked me, "Why don't you?" And, my answer is, "I set out to record a record album of 10 songs, perhaps more, and for the sake of the principle, I shall continue my effort".
Meanwhile, the end result of recording music and replicating CD's will require websites. Now the design and content creation for HappyHarryNET has been on the back burner for years now. I haven't submitted much content to my site in quite some time. The site has been "functional" for those who lean on its usefulness. Web traffic has drastically reduced in three years, after all, I don't SEO or run any advertisement to draw traffic to my site and that is just as well because there is no new content anyhow. But, this is changing soon.
Recently I have delved into Adobe's Creative Cloud program and I am enjoying the new apps and cloud system. Additionally, the TouchApps for iPad really enhance this entire package. It is great to relax and draw wireframe layouts, with text, colors, menus and animation. If an idea works you load it from the cloud into Photoshop, Illustrator, Fireworks, Muse or Dreamweaver on the Mac and go full boar with it. This is a game changer because I used to do most of this on a legal pad. Now, there is no more double work. My ideas are captured and stored in the cloud. Then those ideas can go directly into the appropriate app to further enhance, embellish or produce their final results. The quality is stunning also.
Same goes for songwriting. I use GarageBand on iPad to capture immediate musical ideas. GarageBand for iPad is great because everything captured goes to the cloud, so no musical ideas are lost. They are easy to recall and my songwriting production has tripled. I can easily go back in time and work on songs, take the songs into Logic Studio for production or sometimes I will produce them right in GarageBand and flush out an idea quickly. The iPad has relaxed this entire operation. I no longer have to race to my MOTIF workstation to capture a song idea. Now the MOTIF is Step_2 in the chain and I like it.
Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion is a great operating system and it's like having a new Mac! My MacBook is almost 4 years old and to this day seems like a brand new computer. My almost 3 year old Toshiba Qosmio i7 power house laptop is gathering dust. I have grown weary with the repetitive problems associated with Windows. Since my using iPad, my tolerance for such frustrating hardware and software has become zero. Thus, I am really enjoying the Mac again. The iPad is now a content creation tool and is serving me well.
If all of this was not enough, I am specializing in technology research and have began the incarnation of a new podcast that will probably be called, "The PowerHouse Show". Right now we're kicking around some ideas and testing various spots to see how we wish to do this. I am choosing a couple people to co-host the show with me. I think I will initially release the show as a SpreakerCast and to Facebook. If the show survives that, then we will move on to the iTunes Store with a Podcast. It is my hope this project will survive to evolve into a video show.
HHNET
Monday, March 05, 2012
A New Chapter • NASAV Ends
After living, full time, for six years in the NASAV motor home, it became time to retire her from service.Eight years ago the idea of moving out of the city and retiring to the RV lifestyle was planned on paper and NASAV was born. It is an acronym which stands for North American Surrealistic Adventure Vehicle.
My idea of constructing a recording studio in a 27.foot motor home was challenging. However, it is amazing that I created a very top-class and productive studio inside of 6x5.feet of space! There are photos on my blog here; try searching the word "studio".
Prior to our purchasing the motor home, I created the NASAV logo which initially began on a yellow legal pad. I hand drew the general idea of the logo font along side of an American flag. The first mock-up was drawn using pencil and Sharpie marker, while the American flag was quickly sketched using Crayola crayons. Soon, the NASA worm font was introduced for the logo letters. I acquired the font from a disgruntled, retired, ex-employee at NASA who wanted me to have the original PostScript font. The lettering was constructed and edited using Adobe Illustrator version.9 and the .AI file was emailed to a vinyl lettering shop. They special ordered a flat.black.rubbery vinyl for the lettering. The flags were custom ordered from a store that only sells American flags and flag accessories, including flag stickers.
It was only a couple weeks after the final logo mock-up on the wall above the 8.foot computer table that we purchased the motor home. During our first two weeks living in the RV we prepared and applied the NASAV lettering and American flags. The truck's engine hood, front grille, all bumpers, wheel skirts and trim that ran along the RV shell were are painted flat black.
We moved four times in six years and did not travel as much as we had originally planned. This was because we found some VERY nice places to live where the air ranks 9th place in the entire United.States and we had unparalleled privacy.
Moving out of NASAV was bittersweet and a new chapter has began as we take residence in a very quaint small house nearby.
The new location offers tremendous studio space which I feel will enable much faster production of my up and coming record album slated for Q4.2012.
HHNET
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Cold Winter Changes
NASAV_studios - December 2011 - in cabin not RV
When I began to type this blog I almost typed, "Cold Water Morning" by Neil.Diamond because that song was playing in my head when I began this blog.
Winter is upon us and the temperatures have dropped. I am living in hot showers to keep my bones from Carbonite Poisoning. Headaches have been enhancing my production schedule. We're not living in the RV motor home now but rather a rental cabin. A little more space, of course more money and a few benefits that I do appreciate. The big picture don't change much for me. I burn rubber when I'm on my feet because I don't know which day will bury me in morbid pain which will consume a week of my life.
Jennie [my ukulele] has been a good friend whom I've enjoyed spending time with. I have become quite accomplished on this instrument in such a short period of time and it is so much fun to play in banjo tuning.
The studio is functional and I love that my design works anywhere in the world. No matter where I take my kit, once I am set up, everything is identical. This makes for great workflow and production.
On another note, I just bought a Nintendo.3DS and I enjoying it during my leisure hours such as in my favorite chair and when lounging around in bed. I plan to SLOT1 the 3DS and I do plan to include everything.3DS on my upcoming and redesigned SLOT1 website. The website is functional now; I just don't list it on my main site. You can access my SLOT1 site below:
http://happyharry.net/slot1
Meanwhile, my iPodTouch32 and iOS.5 rocks - very productive platform. MissToshiba is managing the latest and greatest PC games ala Steam and Impulse (GameStop) plus my 200+ Real.Arcade games that I usually install a couple dozen of them. They are great games to play in between the heavy hitters which can simply be overwhelming when you're not in the mood.
I'm still shopping 6.string.electric guitars such as Gibson.Les.Paul, LP.Flood, Carvin and Rickenbacker. I am very pleased with my Dean.Boca.12 electric and the Ibanez.AEL20 acoustic.electric.12 has seasoned a bit and plays real nice now. Drumtracks are still getting designed and arranged ala Drumcore3 as a VST in Mixcraft5 on MissToshiba. Then I LAN them over to the MacBook and into LogicStudio. I've grown to like creating drumtracks in the bedroom where [in my mind] space appears to be clear of chaos and other spacial matters that block creativity and stump productivity.
Now 58 years of age, I am looking into moving out of the United States. But nothing will happen in coming year. I wish to finish my first record album and that time is also needed for logistics and mobility planning anyhow.
It is my sincere wish that each and every one of you enjoy your holidays including Christmas. More importantly, make it a point to spend time with the people you like and love. Do nothing else; and if that means spending time with yourself, that's okay too.
I know that I love me so I understand! >grin<
HHNET
I'm still shopping 6.string.electric guitars such as Gibson.Les.Paul, LP.Flood, Carvin and Rickenbacker. I am very pleased with my Dean.Boca.12 electric and the Ibanez.AEL20 acoustic.electric.12 has seasoned a bit and plays real nice now. Drumtracks are still getting designed and arranged ala Drumcore3 as a VST in Mixcraft5 on MissToshiba. Then I LAN them over to the MacBook and into LogicStudio. I've grown to like creating drumtracks in the bedroom where [in my mind] space appears to be clear of chaos and other spacial matters that block creativity and stump productivity.
Now 58 years of age, I am looking into moving out of the United States. But nothing will happen in coming year. I wish to finish my first record album and that time is also needed for logistics and mobility planning anyhow.
It is my sincere wish that each and every one of you enjoy your holidays including Christmas. More importantly, make it a point to spend time with the people you like and love. Do nothing else; and if that means spending time with yourself, that's okay too.
I know that I love me so I understand! >grin<
HHNET
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Steve Jobs - Farewell My Friend
A year ago I purchased an Apple iPod Touch with 32GB of memory storage. Since buying this post.PC.device, my life is no longer the same. It was only a matter of days when I began to realize "neurological improvements" in my health while using this device. Simple tasks that I need every day became a breeze to accomplish. It was less than 2 weeks and I had already began doing my serious work on the iPod rather than jumping onto my i7.Toshiba or using the MacBook in the studio. There was no need. I bought the Apple Bluetooth wireless keyboard and used one of my IMAK ergoBeads beanbags as a prop for the iPod; which by the way works wonderfully when remote such as Starbucks or where ever. Within weeks I had tried, tested and purchased some apps that enable me to do EVERYTHING and more, than I was doing using my PC and Mac laptop. Of course, I use my Mac and LogicStudio with a Yamaha.01X automated digital mixer with little or no compromising with any aspect of audio recording.
My point for blogging this morning is, I do not live the same way as I used to one year ago. And this is SOLELY because of the iPod.touch and its hassle-free, ease of use. Mind you, I originally purchased my iPod.touch to use my Evernote database that I had created on the Mac and Windows machines. I didn't buy my iPod for music, movies, TV and games. Little did I know that I would soon be enjoying all of that too. But, I bought it so I had access to nearly 7,000 database entries dating back to post brain injury 1993.
Apple (FireWire) Sony (iLink) and Yamaha (mLAN) each chipped into this fast data transfer protocol with the exception being Yamaha gave their FireWire technology away free to the industry which enabled users to send and receive 32 channels of digital music data, including controller data for digital mixers, all using one 6-pin FireWire cable. [meanwhile it appears as though we are still waiting for USB 3.0] and I think Apple's Thunderbolt [again] will become a powerful data transfer interface for audio, video AND data transfer. Meaning SSD and HDD connections using Thunderbolt.
In honoring Steve Jobs, I am not recording music this week or using my Mac. This may seem silly, but for me, I simply wish to reflect on his legacy and his quote, "Stay hungry, stay foolish".
My point for blogging this morning is, I do not live the same way as I used to one year ago. And this is SOLELY because of the iPod.touch and its hassle-free, ease of use. Mind you, I originally purchased my iPod.touch to use my Evernote database that I had created on the Mac and Windows machines. I didn't buy my iPod for music, movies, TV and games. Little did I know that I would soon be enjoying all of that too. But, I bought it so I had access to nearly 7,000 database entries dating back to post brain injury 1993.
Apple (FireWire) Sony (iLink) and Yamaha (mLAN) each chipped into this fast data transfer protocol with the exception being Yamaha gave their FireWire technology away free to the industry which enabled users to send and receive 32 channels of digital music data, including controller data for digital mixers, all using one 6-pin FireWire cable. [meanwhile it appears as though we are still waiting for USB 3.0] and I think Apple's Thunderbolt [again] will become a powerful data transfer interface for audio, video AND data transfer. Meaning SSD and HDD connections using Thunderbolt.
In honoring Steve Jobs, I am not recording music this week or using my Mac. This may seem silly, but for me, I simply wish to reflect on his legacy and his quote, "Stay hungry, stay foolish".
I will comfortably reside on my iPod.touch as I do daily. My website will continue to display Steve Jobs' memorial photo and my site will function with my basic content. Trust me, much more is coming soon.
HHNET
Saturday, August 27, 2011
NASAV_studios - A Reality
Jee whiz. Nearly September 2011. But, I am excited more than ever with regards to this life long dream I've had about recording music. Of course, long ago when I first began my attempts to record music, it wasn't in 6x5.feet of space in a 27foot motor home. Still, when I think back, I tried this 2 times before. Once using Beta.HiFi as a recording deck and the second time I bought a TEAC.A3340S 15.IPS 10" reel.to.reel, 4.track multitrack recorder with Symul.Sync, a Model.2 mixer and DBX noise reduction. I still have some DBX cassette mixdowns which some were a total of 17 ping.pong tracks on a 4.track machine. They sounded pretty good at the time, but honestly, my passion was greater than the technology that I was using. But then again, I was using equipment on par with what the Beatles had. So, using that as a gauge I could accept the fact I simply just was not "as good as them". Nevertheless, my musical inspiration continued to grow and years later I purchased a Yamaha 4.track cassette machine that had some onboard DSP but you had to be a "switch nut" to use the thing. It used an insane combination of switch positions to accomplish a plethora of recording functions and tasks. I never grew to liking the unit and it eventually ended up in the hands of somebody else. Then I went through a chapter in my life where needing to record any of my music just wasn't important. But, again... that haunting need crept back into my life in the 90's when I lived in Florida and began recording again using my Korg.i3 and a 16.bit soundcard using a PC. Some nice recordings came from that chapter of my life including, Dolphin Blue and Isn't Love At All. Both songs are on my Click and Listen website.
In 2003 I moved from Florida to California. It wasn't long before wanting to move out of the city and into a motor home. Thus, NASAV was born. North American Surrealistic Adventure Vehicle. It all began hand drawn on legal pad, then pieces got printed out from the laser printer. Soon the NASAV logo as you see it today was on the wall in front of the computer table. The American flag that accompanies the logo on the RV, was initially drawn using colored pencils and crayons. After much searching, I found a place that sold high quality flags. Now I was ready to design the logo lettering from a bitmap font. Halfway through that project I got connected to a disgruntled ex-employee of NASA who gave me access to the official NASA Worm font. This put me immediately into Adobe Illustrator version 9 and the A.I. file was given to vinyl lettering shop who special ordered a vinyl that is matte black and actually looks and feels like rubber, rather than plastic. Applying the lettering and flags to the RV was a snap. SOMEDAY, I will get the RV website up so people can visually SEE this story, piece by piece.
During our first year in the RV, I was already hot to trot about getting started with the project studio. By that time, I had much of the initial design already on paper, including measurements and what recording gear I wanted buy. In 2007, I created a website for an RV park and that was the first $3,500 dollars that fueled NASAV_studios into action. Most of my recording gear was purchased by 2008 and since then has mostly been learning how to use the gear and many, many snippets of really good music. Some of these are on my website. Many of them are not, but I am beginning to leak them out.
This summer was my first public appearance musically and it went very well. I just bought another electric guitar and am shopping for the 3rd. Summer 2011 will also remind me as, "summer with Jennie". Who is Jennie? My ukulele.
Music production has been a mixed bag because I would get excited and take off and produce something. I would think it was great, but in a very short time later, learn how to do it better and then the previous music sounded [to me] like crap. So I would scrap the song and start over. I have done this several times since 2008. However, now 3 years later I am pleased with where my music is going and how it is sounding. My original idea was to record the music that I hear inside my head when I wake up each day. And, if I was not able to do that, then I would scrap the entire idea altogether. But, thanks to the quality gear that I bought and spending hundreds of hours learning how to use the gear and to improve my musical styles and performance has grown into something far beyond my wildest imagination.
In fact. NASAV_studios is just now beginning to operate, as it was intended to. From which mixer I want to use down to the smallest details. Like the routing of cables and connections from one device to another. Having many options and not being stuck with only one or two ways to do something. I didn't want that. I wanted an open ended production system. I can work with or without a computer. Mac or PC. Logic on Mac preferred and surprisingly Mixcraft5 on PC is getting big attention for constructing drum tracks ala Drumcore3.VST.
In my mind, summer is over and it's already Christmas. I can see that it will be Q4.2012 before I get a CD mastered and replicated. I could happen sooner. But, I don't want it to. The NASAV website [still] needs to get constructed. Much of the HappyHarry.NET content is getting a makeover and both HHNET and NASAV_studios will be launching out of HappyHarryNET.com which is a by-product of my band name will be HappyHarryNET and I wanted the dot com because I do plan to sell products including CD's, coffee cups, mouse pads, hats, etc.
So, even for me. When I look at this schematic, I take a deep breath and acknowledge where I've come from and how all of this came to be. It's really amazing stuff. After getting whacked by that car in 1993 I never would have dreamed I would retire to Florida for 10 years and then have my own recording studio in the mountains, living by a lake. Life is funny that way. You just never know what's in store for you right around the corner! But, I would like to say, that I did plan much of this and it feels really good to have accomplished those plans. Personally for me, the completed music will be the true stamp of approval. And, it will release me from the past to move forward and do all sorts of NEW musical ideas that I have. So much of this dream is about getting over the old one! LOL
I think we all go through much of this sort of thing in life. Sorting things out, fighting tooth and nail to get where you are trying to go. A budget helps tremendously. And, I will tell you that MANY spreadsheets made this happen! Thank you Lotus 1-2-3. >no kidding<
From time to time people ask me about progress and when can we expect to hear this so-called music that Harry is making. My answer is basically the same, but I am choosing to steal the Duke Nukem developers slogan, "WHEN IT'S DONE".
Those of you who click my blog, I genuinely appreciate your interest and your taking the time to read my dissertations.
HHNET
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Still Silence of Music
It's midnight sitting here in the studio. I'm hearing the battery clock on the wall with its slight tick-tock because I have not removed the AA battery. All the recording gear is on and silent. The 4416 has a hard drive and a fan for the CD-ROM. It's notable noise but honestly I cannot say any of that noise has made its way into any recordings. The 01X on the other hand is silent and again this past week has made me very glad I bought an 01X. Fast, friendly, useful, does the job and is versatile. I'm spending more time in Logic with the current music I'm working on.
Now with nicer weather it was easy to implement increased physical activity. Walking twice a day and bicycling every other with swimming getting adding soon. The quit sugar lose weight program is still in effect and now the activity portion only makes sense. Also, I am enjoying it because the exercise is increasing my physical stamina; something I did not think I would need recording music in the studio. But, you never learn it all. At times, I find myself jamming a pencil into the side of my head trying to resolve new territory. For example I am collaborating with someone. Their voice is not in tune. This prompted me to slice up their recorded voice into several pieces and manually tune each piece. Also, the music I wrote for their vocal had to be detuned by 65 cents. In a perfect world, it would much simpler and easier to have them re-record the vocal part while they listen to my recorded click-track. Anyhow, the challenge helps me learn more about Logic; a beast of a DAW, yet elegant, in part due to it running on Mac OS X.
I daydream about eventually shooting live video in here so people can see this recording process in action. It's a magical group of live events. And having the right gear makes for a workflow that can stumble and fall yet not trip you up. First takes are some of my best work, while mistakes make up some of my finest discoveries.
This entire process from idea to recording to mastering to publishing is on a massive scale when doing it all yourself. My initial goals and timelines all have been shattered. But, I remind myself that I am working. And thanks to total recall hardware, I am moving forward step by step. The other night I was reading my own brain injury website and in noticed that I had mentioned "...late 2006 with 2007 around the corner and getting my CD done". It amazes me how many years are involved in this passionate desire.
What excites me the most is when you get to listen to my creations.
HHNET
Now with nicer weather it was easy to implement increased physical activity. Walking twice a day and bicycling every other with swimming getting adding soon. The quit sugar lose weight program is still in effect and now the activity portion only makes sense. Also, I am enjoying it because the exercise is increasing my physical stamina; something I did not think I would need recording music in the studio. But, you never learn it all. At times, I find myself jamming a pencil into the side of my head trying to resolve new territory. For example I am collaborating with someone. Their voice is not in tune. This prompted me to slice up their recorded voice into several pieces and manually tune each piece. Also, the music I wrote for their vocal had to be detuned by 65 cents. In a perfect world, it would much simpler and easier to have them re-record the vocal part while they listen to my recorded click-track. Anyhow, the challenge helps me learn more about Logic; a beast of a DAW, yet elegant, in part due to it running on Mac OS X.
I daydream about eventually shooting live video in here so people can see this recording process in action. It's a magical group of live events. And having the right gear makes for a workflow that can stumble and fall yet not trip you up. First takes are some of my best work, while mistakes make up some of my finest discoveries.
This entire process from idea to recording to mastering to publishing is on a massive scale when doing it all yourself. My initial goals and timelines all have been shattered. But, I remind myself that I am working. And thanks to total recall hardware, I am moving forward step by step. The other night I was reading my own brain injury website and in noticed that I had mentioned "...late 2006 with 2007 around the corner and getting my CD done". It amazes me how many years are involved in this passionate desire.
What excites me the most is when you get to listen to my creations.
HHNET
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Musical Comfort
The past few nights have truly enlightened me. Musical ideas that I've had for decades are now flowing like liquid gold. And the Yamaha gear keeps reminding me why I bought them in the first place. I think what amazes me the most right now is, anytime I am simply practicing or trying out some new musical sketch, I am hearing stellar quality audio. Gain stage isn't a struggle any more and I get to attentuating fader groups real fast. Some of this is learning and habits, but another large part of this process is workflow that is in harmony with my songwriting and instrument playing.
My new ukulele 'Jennie' is a blast to play. She is showing me another side of Harry's musical interests. I am already thinking about a ukuele folk/pop/jazz disc. Although I am busy enough as it is as I continue to track and edit the current album, I am finding that venturing off and trying a different musical canvas not only freshens my ears but keeps my creativity alive and flowing. And I adore playing 'banjo' on the ukulele! Very unique sound and style.
There is still much work ahead with regards to project details concerning this album. Right now I have all projects on rotation that is managed by my iPod. I call it distributor management because it reminds me of a mechanical automotive ignition distributor that rotates around firing each spark plug one by one in turn. I never dreamed I would grow to a point in my life managing screaming headaches that I would accomplish MORE, not less. This is truly a milestone. And to frost THAT cake, recently the USA.FDA banned one of my medications. So now, I am doing pain "raw" which is delightfully different to say the least.
In closing, I am tinkering with my websites in between the myriad of todo's I am juggling. It's spring and I am enjoying my writing workshops again. As well, I am reading John Abbott's 'Napoleon Bonaparte' and Mark Russinovich's 'Zero Day' both engrossing and good reads. I became interested in Napoleon's history while playing a staggering strategy game, 'Napoleon:Total.War' which is the best gun powder strategy game I have played to date. Also, I bought the game for $8 dollars during a Steam sale! I also plan to play Total.War.Shogun2 which is a beautiful, gorgeous, 16th century strategy! I simply do not have any available time in my distributor cap to fire more spark plugs.
My new ukulele 'Jennie' is a blast to play. She is showing me another side of Harry's musical interests. I am already thinking about a ukuele folk/pop/jazz disc. Although I am busy enough as it is as I continue to track and edit the current album, I am finding that venturing off and trying a different musical canvas not only freshens my ears but keeps my creativity alive and flowing. And I adore playing 'banjo' on the ukulele! Very unique sound and style.
There is still much work ahead with regards to project details concerning this album. Right now I have all projects on rotation that is managed by my iPod. I call it distributor management because it reminds me of a mechanical automotive ignition distributor that rotates around firing each spark plug one by one in turn. I never dreamed I would grow to a point in my life managing screaming headaches that I would accomplish MORE, not less. This is truly a milestone. And to frost THAT cake, recently the USA.FDA banned one of my medications. So now, I am doing pain "raw" which is delightfully different to say the least.
In closing, I am tinkering with my websites in between the myriad of todo's I am juggling. It's spring and I am enjoying my writing workshops again. As well, I am reading John Abbott's 'Napoleon Bonaparte' and Mark Russinovich's 'Zero Day' both engrossing and good reads. I became interested in Napoleon's history while playing a staggering strategy game, 'Napoleon:Total.War' which is the best gun powder strategy game I have played to date. Also, I bought the game for $8 dollars during a Steam sale! I also plan to play Total.War.Shogun2 which is a beautiful, gorgeous, 16th century strategy! I simply do not have any available time in my distributor cap to fire more spark plugs.
Napoleon: Total War and Total War: Shogun 2 Soundtracks
http://blogs.sega.com/totalwar/2011/04/11/shogun-2-and-napoleon-soundtracks-released/
HHNET
http://blogs.sega.com/totalwar/2011/04/11/shogun-2-and-napoleon-soundtracks-released/
HHNET
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Multitrack Sampling & Recording
New things are happening in the studio. The MOTIF.XS is a real work horse and really getting a lot of attention these days and nights. Much of the time I'm not sure which is which. I've been hanging out in Paltalk to air out my head and my ears. Come Monday I dive back ito the abyss of multi-track sampling.
I like working at the workstation. Sitting in front of the keys. Having the entire orchestra of sounds on tap in front of me. Although I have new acoustic electric and electric guitars, many times I find myself composing and recording live, playing guitars from the MOTIF. It rocks. Also, my mod.wheel techniques have improved and this really makes the electric guitars shine.
Having top-notch DSP/DYN/FX processors on board really helps to fine tune and get the exact sounds I am wanting in my songs. Dynamics mean so much and I love bringing out the punch in a song by using a particular EQ or Compressor. The beauty of the XS is, much of the time, I can use the ROMplers built-in sounds as they are! In their native form. But, having the ability to tweak sounds to my liking is a plus. And having a solid 16-track sequencer and full digital mixer on board, combined with full high quality signal processors on tap, makes the XS a joy to use.
My angle now is to use the XS more exclusively for recording songs from scratch through to their final mixed down version. All possible with the XS. I've already been doing this. However, I want to do some advanced tracking with samples along side my sequenced tracks. Also, I wish to sample the VoiceLive2 vocal processor tracks so they can mixed down along with the sequencer music.
It's really a joy to do all of this without having to turn on a Mac or PC. Using DAWs have their place. I won't argue that. It is easier to edit waveforms using software such as Wavelab or even editing that stuff in Tracktion3. But its more musically fulfilling to do it on the XS without the computer because then you feel as though you constructed a song using a musical instrument. Which I did. This is what I enjoy the most.
Playing real instruments such as my two 12-string guitars or the new ukulele that is getting a lot of attention. I named her, "Jennie" and she plays really nice. I am already considering recording an entire album of ukulele folk jazz.
Having top-notch DSP/DYN/FX processors on board really helps to fine tune and get the exact sounds I am wanting in my songs. Dynamics mean so much and I love bringing out the punch in a song by using a particular EQ or Compressor. The beauty of the XS is, much of the time, I can use the ROMplers built-in sounds as they are! In their native form. But, having the ability to tweak sounds to my liking is a plus. And having a solid 16-track sequencer and full digital mixer on board, combined with full high quality signal processors on tap, makes the XS a joy to use.
My angle now is to use the XS more exclusively for recording songs from scratch through to their final mixed down version. All possible with the XS. I've already been doing this. However, I want to do some advanced tracking with samples along side my sequenced tracks. Also, I wish to sample the VoiceLive2 vocal processor tracks so they can mixed down along with the sequencer music.It's really a joy to do all of this without having to turn on a Mac or PC. Using DAWs have their place. I won't argue that. It is easier to edit waveforms using software such as Wavelab or even editing that stuff in Tracktion3. But its more musically fulfilling to do it on the XS without the computer because then you feel as though you constructed a song using a musical instrument. Which I did. This is what I enjoy the most.
Playing real instruments such as my two 12-string guitars or the new ukulele that is getting a lot of attention. I named her, "Jennie" and she plays really nice. I am already considering recording an entire album of ukulele folk jazz.
Also, I am looking forward to getting proficient using the XS so there is no need to rely on the 01X digital mixer just to get into a DAW to record music. Actually, the MOTIF.XS is very intuitive to use for how complicated it really is. I have learned to appreciate Yamaha's effort in making this possible. Just 5 years ago this was not possible.
Meanwhile, I am working on new songs in between headaches and websites that need revising with two new websites coming soon. For now I will say this year, but perhaps late spring or after summer. I am sure people will find them useful because it is my intention to bring more CONTENT to HappyHarryNET. As for HappyHarryNET.com it is lying dormant while I continue to henpeck the design and GUI layout. That's a fancy way of saying I have yet to decide how I wish to layout the site. Also, the dot.com site's purpose is to facilitate the e-commerce of my first record album and other products which I plan to be selling eventually. So taking time to think things through on paper does just that... take time.
HHNET
Meanwhile, I am working on new songs in between headaches and websites that need revising with two new websites coming soon. For now I will say this year, but perhaps late spring or after summer. I am sure people will find them useful because it is my intention to bring more CONTENT to HappyHarryNET. As for HappyHarryNET.com it is lying dormant while I continue to henpeck the design and GUI layout. That's a fancy way of saying I have yet to decide how I wish to layout the site. Also, the dot.com site's purpose is to facilitate the e-commerce of my first record album and other products which I plan to be selling eventually. So taking time to think things through on paper does just that... take time.
HHNET
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Irons In The Fire
After 16 years of cold and flu-less health, I finally got nabbed. I'm on the second go-round and am doing the feel better one day and feel like death the next. I suspect this condition will improve in the coming 10 days.
Meanwhile, it is raining every day and every night. This has placed an incredible damper on my vocal recordings. But, hey! The timing is just right because I am coughing my brains out and can't sing now anyhow. God's miracles.
While I whimper around with my tail between my legs as I fend of this cold, I've been surfing the net shopping for new electric guitars to be used to record new album tracks. Upcoming blog(s) will have details and photos.
I am months behind, but I am working on my webs. Right now I am reconstructing the foundation of my sites so they will be HTML, HTML5, smartphone and iOS compatible, including animation and video. Some of my original older pages such as ABOUT ME, HISTORY, etc., will be rewritten and will no longer be contain scroll boxes for improved readability.
Enjoying iOS gaming much more than I ever imagined that I would. But, hard-core PC gaming via Steam shall remain along side Xbox360 and XboxLIVE.
My Quit.Sugar.Lifestyle (QSL) is intact and going well. I will be introducing a new HappyHarryNET Health and Fitness web site, so stay tuned. Anybody can get off sugar, lose weight and feel great. It even helps fight off colds and flu.
While I whimper around with my tail between my legs as I fend of this cold, I've been surfing the net shopping for new electric guitars to be used to record new album tracks. Upcoming blog(s) will have details and photos.
I am months behind, but I am working on my webs. Right now I am reconstructing the foundation of my sites so they will be HTML, HTML5, smartphone and iOS compatible, including animation and video. Some of my original older pages such as ABOUT ME, HISTORY, etc., will be rewritten and will no longer be contain scroll boxes for improved readability.
Enjoying iOS gaming much more than I ever imagined that I would. But, hard-core PC gaming via Steam shall remain along side Xbox360 and XboxLIVE.
My Quit.Sugar.Lifestyle (QSL) is intact and going well. I will be introducing a new HappyHarryNET Health and Fitness web site, so stay tuned. Anybody can get off sugar, lose weight and feel great. It even helps fight off colds and flu.
Let our prayers remain vigil for everyone in Japan!
HHNET
Sunday, January 30, 2011
01X Swap Done
2008 kicked off my project studio with some official workspace. My KODAK digital cam died so after this and another overhead panoramic photo were taken there were no updates which included the near field monitors, a new 37" LED and the addition of the AW4416 which immediately claimed space where the 01X is shown in this photo.
You can see below the 4416 kicking the 01X out of the picture which forced me to relocate the MacBook which got moved to beneath the table where it is out of the way, provides its use in the studio and yet is easy to disconnect and "take with" as a remote notebook. However, now that I have an iPodTouch4G.32, I seldom take the MacBook OR MissToshiba out of the house.
Here the 4416 is shown in its new home with the MacBook still in its old location. The AW4416 provides a nearly unlimited mixing control and channel routing. 24-inputs, 44-channels and anything can be routed anywhere, including the handy 4-OMNI's which I use to connect TRS to 01X. They also talk to each other via S/PDIF and ADAT via the 4416's Y56K.
This arrangement was a bit tricky in its 6ft.x.5ft of space. However, the upside is a powerhouse of sound, DSP, FX, DYNamics and high quality instruments via the MOTIF.XS sampling workstation, which carries its weight without using either of the mixing boards or even turning on the Mac and using Logic. Firewire mLAN onboard the MOTIF makes for shooting discreet tracks to Cubase and Logic a snap.
This arrangement was a bit tricky in its 6ft.x.5ft of space. However, the upside is a powerhouse of sound, DSP, FX, DYNamics and high quality instruments via the MOTIF.XS sampling workstation, which carries its weight without using either of the mixing boards or even turning on the Mac and using Logic. Firewire mLAN onboard the MOTIF makes for shooting discreet tracks to Cubase and Logic a snap.
Things in place finally. Although I am already trained left.handed on 01X, it had to go right because the 4416 just is too wide to hang on the right corner where the door entry way into the RV is located. I am adjusting quickly.
I am enjoying the RODE NT1A LDC mic very much with the VoiceLive2 vocal processor. However, already I will be inserting a TUBE mic.pre to warm things up. For straight digital the RODE is pretty warm, but not enough for my voice. For now I will use my ART.V3 shown below. It's only a $75 tube pre but very versatile for it miniscule price range. Soon I will pick up a Universal Audio Solo 610 to manage warming up any harsh mic levels.
I am enjoying the RODE NT1A LDC mic very much with the VoiceLive2 vocal processor. However, already I will be inserting a TUBE mic.pre to warm things up. For straight digital the RODE is pretty warm, but not enough for my voice. For now I will use my ART.V3 shown below. It's only a $75 tube pre but very versatile for it miniscule price range. Soon I will pick up a Universal Audio Solo 610 to manage warming up any harsh mic levels.
The Art StudioV3 Tube MP is a nice way to go when your on a budget to get some tube warmth into your mix. Whereas I am a solo artist and am not recording anyone other than myself, there is no need for more tube mic.pre's in my studio. Perhaps down the road this will change.
The V3 sounds nice pre-4416 with the 02R-style pre's a bit stronger and warmer than the 01x preamps.
The VoiceLive2 preamp is hot, clean and bit bright. Which works well for harmony backing tracks and a live application. But used as a primary mic.pre it's a bit harsh, so the V3 warms things up just right!
I'm gearing up to purchase 2 electric guitars and a nice TC-Electronic Nova stomp box. It's exciting to get back into "plugged in" and use the acoustic 12's where they belong. The Dean.Boca.12.cherry will be a blast to implement into my album tracks. I am still shopping for my 6.string electric, but I have my eyes on a couple Ibanez models.
The V3 sounds nice pre-4416 with the 02R-style pre's a bit stronger and warmer than the 01x preamps.
The VoiceLive2 preamp is hot, clean and bit bright. Which works well for harmony backing tracks and a live application. But used as a primary mic.pre it's a bit harsh, so the V3 warms things up just right!
I'm gearing up to purchase 2 electric guitars and a nice TC-Electronic Nova stomp box. It's exciting to get back into "plugged in" and use the acoustic 12's where they belong. The Dean.Boca.12.cherry will be a blast to implement into my album tracks. I am still shopping for my 6.string electric, but I have my eyes on a couple Ibanez models.
Due to complications with song #4, I scrapped it entirely and am starting from scratch. Currently I am 30% album complete.
HHNET
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
I'm Back... I Think
Again, time flies. Jee, another glorious picnic basket of morbid headache to enjoy for days on end. This recovery time is when I find myself most cynical.
Amazing how many blog comments I just erased. Mostly spam and dumb-fucks that have less than a thimble full of sperm to talk about. It just rubs me the wrong way. I hear people compliment my blog from time to time, yet NONE of them ever have left a comment.
I think the Internet creates this false sense of celebrity-disesase. For example, I have several websites. Most of them serve a purpose being useful to others. And, although I it is not my goal to become an Internet celebrity, it would be nice if people were not so chickenshit about leaving comments. I mean, Christ, they play FARMVILLE for hours on end on Facebook, but they can't leave a comment on my blog? I don't care where you come from. That's fucking sick.
Oh, did I mention? I have declined to maintain G-rated content. Let the ESRB manage that crap. Maybe they could sleep with the folks over at the RIAA and they could all have an orgy with all of our so-called "representatives" who are members of the CFR, which by the way is not people.friendly so you best avoid them.
What's with the periods between my words? It's the ONLY guaranteed way to keep words together using any text entry field located on the Internet. I've used underscores since CP/M before DOS, but _they cannot be trusted to keep two words together. Same goes for hyphens. Perhaps using Microsoft.Word Ctrl+- (control + hypen) will keep those two words together as long as they remain a Word .DOC file. I think that is where that ends. Women have periods to get through life. I use periods to keep words together. See, we truly are symbiotic!
For those of you who even bother to read my blog anymore, I hope you can appreciate the shear volume of facts that I am representing here.
As for my music. Recording is back in motion. I'm working with Drumcore3 which helps tremendously writing and arranging drum parts. (which I always hear in my head) This is a songwriters dream come true. Or, at least a songwriter who does not have a dedicated drummer who has his kit set up and mic'd ready for recording. Still, I'm ironing out the kinks with my Ibanez.12-string. Get what you pay for would be suitable. And cutaways suck compared to dreadnaughts. Period. (there's that word again)
I've nearly finished what I call "the initial real idea" of NASAV_studios. Spent the first 18.months using inferior reference monitors (sorry KRK) which now is blatantly obvious with the Yamaha's in place. No doubt, I will flush out this system to full 7.1 surround after I decide on 01V or LS9. One is majorly affordable and the other isn't. Will deal with that later.
Anyhow, recording 10 songs is going much slower than I ever anticipated. Still, thanks to having total.recall.hardware makes it all possible. Especially when I factor in these massive headache strikes that pummel me and consume my time.
The cold(er) weather makes life physically hard for me. So what Harry, shut up! Otherwise, life is good. But frankly (whoever Frank is) I've grown tired of hearing, "Life is good". It's like that picture of the cat hanging upside down with the slogan, "Hang In There". It's stupid and it has nothing to do with saving your ass for a nickel!
Amazing how many blog comments I just erased. Mostly spam and dumb-fucks that have less than a thimble full of sperm to talk about. It just rubs me the wrong way. I hear people compliment my blog from time to time, yet NONE of them ever have left a comment.
I think the Internet creates this false sense of celebrity-disesase. For example, I have several websites. Most of them serve a purpose being useful to others. And, although I it is not my goal to become an Internet celebrity, it would be nice if people were not so chickenshit about leaving comments. I mean, Christ, they play FARMVILLE for hours on end on Facebook, but they can't leave a comment on my blog? I don't care where you come from. That's fucking sick.
Oh, did I mention? I have declined to maintain G-rated content. Let the ESRB manage that crap. Maybe they could sleep with the folks over at the RIAA and they could all have an orgy with all of our so-called "representatives" who are members of the CFR, which by the way is not people.friendly so you best avoid them.
What's with the periods between my words? It's the ONLY guaranteed way to keep words together using any text entry field located on the Internet. I've used underscores since CP/M before DOS, but _they cannot be trusted to keep two words together. Same goes for hyphens. Perhaps using Microsoft.Word Ctrl+- (control + hypen) will keep those two words together as long as they remain a Word .DOC file. I think that is where that ends. Women have periods to get through life. I use periods to keep words together. See, we truly are symbiotic!
For those of you who even bother to read my blog anymore, I hope you can appreciate the shear volume of facts that I am representing here.
As for my music. Recording is back in motion. I'm working with Drumcore3 which helps tremendously writing and arranging drum parts. (which I always hear in my head) This is a songwriters dream come true. Or, at least a songwriter who does not have a dedicated drummer who has his kit set up and mic'd ready for recording. Still, I'm ironing out the kinks with my Ibanez.12-string. Get what you pay for would be suitable. And cutaways suck compared to dreadnaughts. Period. (there's that word again)
I've nearly finished what I call "the initial real idea" of NASAV_studios. Spent the first 18.months using inferior reference monitors (sorry KRK) which now is blatantly obvious with the Yamaha's in place. No doubt, I will flush out this system to full 7.1 surround after I decide on 01V or LS9. One is majorly affordable and the other isn't. Will deal with that later.
Anyhow, recording 10 songs is going much slower than I ever anticipated. Still, thanks to having total.recall.hardware makes it all possible. Especially when I factor in these massive headache strikes that pummel me and consume my time.
The cold(er) weather makes life physically hard for me. So what Harry, shut up! Otherwise, life is good. But frankly (whoever Frank is) I've grown tired of hearing, "Life is good". It's like that picture of the cat hanging upside down with the slogan, "Hang In There". It's stupid and it has nothing to do with saving your ass for a nickel!
In closing, the holiday season is upon us once again. Yet, again, I cannot help feeling Scrooge. Public.Reasons won't allow me to open THAT can of worms here, but if I say "fuck it" enough, perhaps in a future blog I shall treat you to these personal details about my life.
Wow! I didn't say "period" again. Now I should enjoy some sex.
Wow! I didn't say "period" again. Now I should enjoy some sex.
HHNET
Friday, December 03, 2010
Tell Santa What You Want
It's that time of year again.
Hey! Take a minute to rekindle your Christmas spirit and visit http://happyharry.net and click on Tell Santa What You Want.
As many of you know, the ultra elites and international bankers are destroying our economy here and in every country on this planet. The few countries who are not being squeezed out are in chaos by design via our military operations! It's a pretty sad state of affairs.
Hey! Take a minute to rekindle your Christmas spirit and visit http://happyharry.net and click on Tell Santa What You Want.
As many of you know, the ultra elites and international bankers are destroying our economy here and in every country on this planet. The few countries who are not being squeezed out are in chaos by design via our military operations! It's a pretty sad state of affairs.
So, I suggest you tell Santa what you want for Christmas. Afterall, this may be your LAST Christmas as a free person.
HHNET
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Some Things Don't Change
Although I have many of days like today, I don't speak of them or write about the much. Way back when, it was one of my goals to stop talking about my pain. It was a milestone when I got to the point where I no longer truly had the need to tell others how badly I was hurting. Now 17 years has passed and I qualify for sharing whatever the heck I wanna share about my life.
Some of you know this all began on August 6, 1993. And to this day, I am coaching people on the side who are suffering with MTBI, closed head injuries and screaming haeadaches which have contributed to their lives becoming unmanageable. I just received a letter from a new customer just last week. She is suffering more than I am; if that is perceivably possible right now in my state of mind. However, I know pain is relative and she [in fact] is suffering greatly and in some ways that I did not have to deal with. But until we learn to cope and manage insane chronic pain, it is one wicked demon to contend with.
Some of you know this all began on August 6, 1993. And to this day, I am coaching people on the side who are suffering with MTBI, closed head injuries and screaming haeadaches which have contributed to their lives becoming unmanageable. I just received a letter from a new customer just last week. She is suffering more than I am; if that is perceivably possible right now in my state of mind. However, I know pain is relative and she [in fact] is suffering greatly and in some ways that I did not have to deal with. But until we learn to cope and manage insane chronic pain, it is one wicked demon to contend with.
For me today, I woke to much of my body feeling in a "cramped" state. Along with that, the back of my skull was just screaming like a banshee in harmony to what I call the flying.saucer.disc headache slicing my brain in half and obliterating my thoughts.
My first course of action is to get "basic meds" into my system. Afterall, I have a 50/50 shot to even get onto my feet today. So I took the daiy usuals which also include water pills for edema, fish oil, B, Centrum Silver, 50,000 units D3, 3.Glucosamine and then swallowed them down with 2 cups of Breeze™ which also scores me 2 points of fiber in the middle of a blistering headache. More on this later.
I continued in bed, using my Homemedics 4-head Percussive Massage to try and break down some of the muscle cramping both in my neck, along the base of my skull and inside of my head. Today's massage workout was about 20% effective which is not as good as usual. This tells me that this headache will drag into the day. How long and how strong, I don't know yet. But, I do know that I can count on 16 hours of morbidity.
Nevertheless, I will be productive today and this is what can distinguish the difference between me and you. I suffered in bed, in fetal position for many, many years before I began to learn distractive therapy techiniques. It was years before I even got out of bed and into a chair. But, I won't bore you with that story today. For all I wanted to share today was, what it can be like for me [still 12 or more days a month] when I awake to start each day.
Now about 3 hours into my day I am sitting up. I've swallowed headache assistance twice since becoming conscious and buzzin' my skull with the massager got me sitting up. Now, I proceed to getting a cup of coffee going. If Kathy hasn't already left me a half pot of fresh brewed coffee, I opt to making my instant.fiber.coffee which will also be debuted in my upcoming Diet Tips & Tricks PDF. Today I got lucky and warm coffee was present. This means 2 minutes in the microwave and I'm on my way. My coffee cup is a low profile [5-inch wide, soup-like] which contains 3 cups of coffee. Also this cup design will never tip over. Something which is paramount for me and my condition living around high-end laptops and expensive recording equipment. Many days this coffee won't get much attention and there will be 50% of it remaining 20 hours from now. Today this will not be the case. I'm drinking it as we speak and I have consume half of it already.
My first course of action is to get "basic meds" into my system. Afterall, I have a 50/50 shot to even get onto my feet today. So I took the daiy usuals which also include water pills for edema, fish oil, B, Centrum Silver, 50,000 units D3, 3.Glucosamine and then swallowed them down with 2 cups of Breeze™ which also scores me 2 points of fiber in the middle of a blistering headache. More on this later.
I continued in bed, using my Homemedics 4-head Percussive Massage to try and break down some of the muscle cramping both in my neck, along the base of my skull and inside of my head. Today's massage workout was about 20% effective which is not as good as usual. This tells me that this headache will drag into the day. How long and how strong, I don't know yet. But, I do know that I can count on 16 hours of morbidity.
Nevertheless, I will be productive today and this is what can distinguish the difference between me and you. I suffered in bed, in fetal position for many, many years before I began to learn distractive therapy techiniques. It was years before I even got out of bed and into a chair. But, I won't bore you with that story today. For all I wanted to share today was, what it can be like for me [still 12 or more days a month] when I awake to start each day.
Now about 3 hours into my day I am sitting up. I've swallowed headache assistance twice since becoming conscious and buzzin' my skull with the massager got me sitting up. Now, I proceed to getting a cup of coffee going. If Kathy hasn't already left me a half pot of fresh brewed coffee, I opt to making my instant.fiber.coffee which will also be debuted in my upcoming Diet Tips & Tricks PDF. Today I got lucky and warm coffee was present. This means 2 minutes in the microwave and I'm on my way. My coffee cup is a low profile [5-inch wide, soup-like] which contains 3 cups of coffee. Also this cup design will never tip over. Something which is paramount for me and my condition living around high-end laptops and expensive recording equipment. Many days this coffee won't get much attention and there will be 50% of it remaining 20 hours from now. Today this will not be the case. I'm drinking it as we speak and I have consume half of it already.
With my neck, base of skull, skull and internal pain consuming much of who I am today, it is obvious that once I finish my coffee and this blog that I need to get myself onto my TotalGym to do some muscle stretching and to gain some range-of-motion. This in itself helps tremendously even when suffering with extreme levels of on-going pain.
I'm disoriented and don't know where my bluestrip is. This is a bright blue, locking box which holds about a week of my chemical toys. I had possession of this when I first awoke and need to locate where I put it after taking my initial 2 rounds. Aha! I had to stand up, but my bluestrip was where I usually keep it. I don't have any memory of my putting it there today. I know I put it away yesterday, but today, Kathy prolly stuck it there. My last visual was having it in my hands when I was laying in bed.
Just this process of "where are things" was the first 5.years of agony in life since 1993. Since then, I have learned NOT to lose things. I did learn [around 6.years post injury] that sometimes my brain does not photograph everything my eyes scan in the picture. So, to me, I don't see what I am looking for. This is not to be confused with losing things. Still, it took me almost 3.years post injury to phycially reach out and feel, for many times what I was looking for, such as keys on the table, were in fact there, yet I did not have a visual for it. Sounds unbelievable? Research it yourself. I don't time here today to do that.
As we mosey on into my day, I am thinking about working on flushing out the general user interface for my upcoming HappyHarryNET.com websites. Tinkering today will be my theme. There is no point in pressuring myself with this physical level of pain going on in my head today. Also, now that my brain is processing other pain sensors in the my body better, my spine is sore and my joints are stiff. Fall is here. Again, its TotalGym time, so I will insert my usual walk into my phsical program before getting onto the gym.
Back to thoughts. I'm working on a country song which now focuses mainly on the lead vocal which I am writing from scratch and inserting into the existing song which has harmonies. This is a bit of a backwards process and a new way to compose music. I accepted the challenge and the results are nothing less than stellar and I am proud to include this country song on my upcoming album in late 2011. But the point being, 17.years ago I would be laying in bed [in fetal position] with this blistering headache, I would not be going to work nor would I be sustaining any job anywhere. And to frost the cake, I surely would not be accomplishing anything, let alone working on new website designs or arranging and recording music!
So, those of you who knew me back in 1993 can appreciate what I am asaying here. But for the people who never knew me and are reading now, perhaps this will shed some light on chronic pain and distractive therapies. Also, maybe you know someone who is suffering and they could use some help. Feel free to send them my way. I am coaching over 612 people now. Mind you, not every day. But they e-mail me or Skype me or phone me and we talk. It's amazing to hear of their successes which have been accelerated by my sharing my techniques with them. But, as I always tell people, it's your success. You're the one doing the work. We all lean on and utilize methods used by other people which enable us to improve, conquer and move on with our lives. To this day I still break out my Anthony Robbins materials and listen to them every other year. There are "others" I read and listen to as well, but Tony has helped me a lot. Two other mentors in my life have been instrumental in my progress, but I have not seen one of them in 13 years and the other one has chosen to ignore me somewhat. Still, I lead myself now. And this is what we all must [eventually] do. Lead ourselves.
I'm disoriented and don't know where my bluestrip is. This is a bright blue, locking box which holds about a week of my chemical toys. I had possession of this when I first awoke and need to locate where I put it after taking my initial 2 rounds. Aha! I had to stand up, but my bluestrip was where I usually keep it. I don't have any memory of my putting it there today. I know I put it away yesterday, but today, Kathy prolly stuck it there. My last visual was having it in my hands when I was laying in bed.
Just this process of "where are things" was the first 5.years of agony in life since 1993. Since then, I have learned NOT to lose things. I did learn [around 6.years post injury] that sometimes my brain does not photograph everything my eyes scan in the picture. So, to me, I don't see what I am looking for. This is not to be confused with losing things. Still, it took me almost 3.years post injury to phycially reach out and feel, for many times what I was looking for, such as keys on the table, were in fact there, yet I did not have a visual for it. Sounds unbelievable? Research it yourself. I don't time here today to do that.
As we mosey on into my day, I am thinking about working on flushing out the general user interface for my upcoming HappyHarryNET.com websites. Tinkering today will be my theme. There is no point in pressuring myself with this physical level of pain going on in my head today. Also, now that my brain is processing other pain sensors in the my body better, my spine is sore and my joints are stiff. Fall is here. Again, its TotalGym time, so I will insert my usual walk into my phsical program before getting onto the gym.
Back to thoughts. I'm working on a country song which now focuses mainly on the lead vocal which I am writing from scratch and inserting into the existing song which has harmonies. This is a bit of a backwards process and a new way to compose music. I accepted the challenge and the results are nothing less than stellar and I am proud to include this country song on my upcoming album in late 2011. But the point being, 17.years ago I would be laying in bed [in fetal position] with this blistering headache, I would not be going to work nor would I be sustaining any job anywhere. And to frost the cake, I surely would not be accomplishing anything, let alone working on new website designs or arranging and recording music!
So, those of you who knew me back in 1993 can appreciate what I am asaying here. But for the people who never knew me and are reading now, perhaps this will shed some light on chronic pain and distractive therapies. Also, maybe you know someone who is suffering and they could use some help. Feel free to send them my way. I am coaching over 612 people now. Mind you, not every day. But they e-mail me or Skype me or phone me and we talk. It's amazing to hear of their successes which have been accelerated by my sharing my techniques with them. But, as I always tell people, it's your success. You're the one doing the work. We all lean on and utilize methods used by other people which enable us to improve, conquer and move on with our lives. To this day I still break out my Anthony Robbins materials and listen to them every other year. There are "others" I read and listen to as well, but Tony has helped me a lot. Two other mentors in my life have been instrumental in my progress, but I have not seen one of them in 13 years and the other one has chosen to ignore me somewhat. Still, I lead myself now. And this is what we all must [eventually] do. Lead ourselves.
Remember that slogan, "You come in alone... you go out alone". I believe there certainly is some truth to that. However, it is important to enjoy the people around us. From all walks of life. Enjoy the people you don't like as well as the one's you love to death. This was one of the best parts of my sustatining a brain injury in 1993 -- I joined the human race.
And now, I shall stand up and get on with my day.
And now, I shall stand up and get on with my day.
HHNET
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Summer, Winter, Autumn & Spring
Some might say Fall is here. Well, I say Fall was already here and now is nearly gone. During the tail of the actual Summer season, one afternoon the wind kicked up and spun some leaves and the air, "changed". Immediately I recognized that Summer was over and that Fall had begun. The very next day the various animals began changing their behaviors. It is quite noticeable when you pay attention to them.
The warm temperatures and breezes are gone and my bones ache again. Waking up is like the TinMan from the Wizard Of Oz. I should have an oil can on my night stand. Or at least a can of WD40. But, with this new diet and lifestyle which I began on June 25th, pushing myself onto my feet is easier than in the past. I have more energy and generally feel better even when I have a blistering headache. The weight loss benefits keep paying off with every pound that I lose. Yesterday I clocked in at 38 pounds down from 250 which is wonderful. It's not a miracle. It simply is the results from making better decisions and life choices.
Beating the rain to the finish line is important now. The RV is getting its Fall maintenance per se and I am a pretty good judge of character when it comes to MotherNature and I know I don't have much more time. I still have the roof to finish and I suspect perhaps another 10 to 20 days and then its time to get wet. Once that happens, its too late to do "dry repairing" to anything that requires it. So this weekend through next week will be the final steps to completing the chores needed to secure our home for the winter.
A few nights ago I solved the arrangement challenge that I was having with a song. I get hung.up differently than I used to. My creativity is flourishing like a waterfall. Now the larger challenge lies with arrangements. Both pre and post recording. But, this is an area that I am glad that I am experiencing. I can recall not too long ago when I didn't have a project studio, nor did I have the quality recording gear that I have now. The days and nights salivating over the equipment that I was researching prior to purchasing. And now, scratching my head when I get stuck on an arrangement. Talk about growth.
With 2011 coming, I am summing up my plans for website overhauls. I've had a lot of ideas on legal pads the past two years and while I am not going to leak any ideas here now, I do plan to improve the overall look, user interface and bring more content to my sites. Then, there is the dedicated website for my record album. That is another iron in the fire. It's not hard work. It's just work that takes time and when you wear all the hats, it takes longer.
Most of my days I live with urgency. Not because I will be 57 years old come December 20th, but rather, there is so much to do in life and so little time. Being excited about life [in itself] is simply not good enough. You can be happy and passionate in everything that you do. But it still takes TIME to get things done. Wasting time is also a precious past time that can be enjoyable. Admittedly, I don't dabble much in this category. However, I'm not going to lie about it. Everybody [including me] wastes a little time now and then. I think it's healthy and I don't think goofing off is a waste of time either! We're all human. Fiddling around and kicking a can should be a priority on your ToDo list. You gotta spend time playing no matter how much work you have to do. But, if you can blend the two of them so working becomes your playing, now you have something to really get excited about. And when you place urgency on THAT then you will get more done in the same amount of time you originally had. Don't hold your breath or stare at clocks... poof, you're dead.
I look forward to seeing SOME of you in Heaven.
HHNET
The warm temperatures and breezes are gone and my bones ache again. Waking up is like the TinMan from the Wizard Of Oz. I should have an oil can on my night stand. Or at least a can of WD40. But, with this new diet and lifestyle which I began on June 25th, pushing myself onto my feet is easier than in the past. I have more energy and generally feel better even when I have a blistering headache. The weight loss benefits keep paying off with every pound that I lose. Yesterday I clocked in at 38 pounds down from 250 which is wonderful. It's not a miracle. It simply is the results from making better decisions and life choices.
Beating the rain to the finish line is important now. The RV is getting its Fall maintenance per se and I am a pretty good judge of character when it comes to MotherNature and I know I don't have much more time. I still have the roof to finish and I suspect perhaps another 10 to 20 days and then its time to get wet. Once that happens, its too late to do "dry repairing" to anything that requires it. So this weekend through next week will be the final steps to completing the chores needed to secure our home for the winter.
A few nights ago I solved the arrangement challenge that I was having with a song. I get hung.up differently than I used to. My creativity is flourishing like a waterfall. Now the larger challenge lies with arrangements. Both pre and post recording. But, this is an area that I am glad that I am experiencing. I can recall not too long ago when I didn't have a project studio, nor did I have the quality recording gear that I have now. The days and nights salivating over the equipment that I was researching prior to purchasing. And now, scratching my head when I get stuck on an arrangement. Talk about growth.
With 2011 coming, I am summing up my plans for website overhauls. I've had a lot of ideas on legal pads the past two years and while I am not going to leak any ideas here now, I do plan to improve the overall look, user interface and bring more content to my sites. Then, there is the dedicated website for my record album. That is another iron in the fire. It's not hard work. It's just work that takes time and when you wear all the hats, it takes longer.
Most of my days I live with urgency. Not because I will be 57 years old come December 20th, but rather, there is so much to do in life and so little time. Being excited about life [in itself] is simply not good enough. You can be happy and passionate in everything that you do. But it still takes TIME to get things done. Wasting time is also a precious past time that can be enjoyable. Admittedly, I don't dabble much in this category. However, I'm not going to lie about it. Everybody [including me] wastes a little time now and then. I think it's healthy and I don't think goofing off is a waste of time either! We're all human. Fiddling around and kicking a can should be a priority on your ToDo list. You gotta spend time playing no matter how much work you have to do. But, if you can blend the two of them so working becomes your playing, now you have something to really get excited about. And when you place urgency on THAT then you will get more done in the same amount of time you originally had. Don't hold your breath or stare at clocks... poof, you're dead.
I look forward to seeing SOME of you in Heaven.
HHNET
Monday, September 06, 2010
Nice Summer
Well, besides the fact that I have lost nearly 35 pounds of weight, and continuing to lose, summer 2010 has been pretty nice.
Recording music slowed down a bit. A combination of headaches, getting stumped on song arrangements and collaborating on a country song that I will be including on my up and coming album in 2011.
Conduit, the code-developers for my HappyHarryNET Toolbar, wrote an article about me and posted to their blog.
The Pursuit Of HappyHarryNET
http://blog.conduit.com/2010/07/10/the-pursuit-of-happyharry-net/
Most of the information was taken from my biography and history of HappyHarryNET that is on my website. Originally, Conduit had planned to do a video interview of me and for some reason, they dropped the ball.
I am still enjoying MissToshiba. She was a good purchase. The MacBook is a workhorse for daily computing, along with everything that I throw at it in LogicPro9 and Tracktion3. And, it goes without saying that Yamaha_01X is such a wonderful digital mixer and really makes life a breeze having hardware DSP and complete mixer automation at the hardware level.
Have made time for PC games again, now that the Qosmio i7 is on the scene. I am rearranging the table space for a replacement refrigerator and a 27-inch Apple iMac i7 that is coming. The Xbox360 is collecting a little dust, as is my original Xbox. There simply is not enough time to play them all and get good bedrest. Something that I never [in the past] gave any priority.
HHNET
Recording music slowed down a bit. A combination of headaches, getting stumped on song arrangements and collaborating on a country song that I will be including on my up and coming album in 2011.
Conduit, the code-developers for my HappyHarryNET Toolbar, wrote an article about me and posted to their blog.
The Pursuit Of HappyHarryNET
http://blog.conduit.com/2010/07/10/the-pursuit-of-happyharry-net/
Most of the information was taken from my biography and history of HappyHarryNET that is on my website. Originally, Conduit had planned to do a video interview of me and for some reason, they dropped the ball.
I am still enjoying MissToshiba. She was a good purchase. The MacBook is a workhorse for daily computing, along with everything that I throw at it in LogicPro9 and Tracktion3. And, it goes without saying that Yamaha_01X is such a wonderful digital mixer and really makes life a breeze having hardware DSP and complete mixer automation at the hardware level.
Have made time for PC games again, now that the Qosmio i7 is on the scene. I am rearranging the table space for a replacement refrigerator and a 27-inch Apple iMac i7 that is coming. The Xbox360 is collecting a little dust, as is my original Xbox. There simply is not enough time to play them all and get good bedrest. Something that I never [in the past] gave any priority.
HHNET
Thursday, August 26, 2010
31 Pounds Today
Amazing!
Today I officially clocked in at 31 pounds lost since June 25th. Besides losing belly fat and losing over 8 inches of body mass, I am muscularly improving and getting stronger every day. Now mountain-biking and walking a minimum of 1 mile or more and drinking nearly a gallon of water per day.
Headaches are still in the mix, but I am feeling so much better, it is a nice offset.
Amazing!
Today I officially clocked in at 31 pounds lost since June 25th. Besides losing belly fat and losing over 8 inches of body mass, I am muscularly improving and getting stronger every day. Now mountain-biking and walking a minimum of 1 mile or more and drinking nearly a gallon of water per day.
Headaches are still in the mix, but I am feeling so much better, it is a nice offset.
Life is good!
— HHNET
Today I officially clocked in at 31 pounds lost since June 25th. Besides losing belly fat and losing over 8 inches of body mass, I am muscularly improving and getting stronger every day. Now mountain-biking and walking a minimum of 1 mile or more and drinking nearly a gallon of water per day.
Headaches are still in the mix, but I am feeling so much better, it is a nice offset.
Amazing!
Today I officially clocked in at 31 pounds lost since June 25th. Besides losing belly fat and losing over 8 inches of body mass, I am muscularly improving and getting stronger every day. Now mountain-biking and walking a minimum of 1 mile or more and drinking nearly a gallon of water per day.
Headaches are still in the mix, but I am feeling so much better, it is a nice offset.
Life is good!
— HHNET
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
