Sketches of Faces

Sketches of Faces

Sketches of Faces

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Sketch of a Dragon

Sketch of a Dragon

Sketch of a Dragon

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The Host with the Most

Recently, I moved my web hosting from Innohosting to Dreamhost.  Before doing so, I did a lot of research—that is I read a lot of reviews about them.  I have to admit that there are a lot of negative posts out there, so much so that I almost stuck with Innohosting.  So why did I make the switch in the end?  In no particular order:

  1. Space Requirements: The whole reason  for me to switch hosts, was so that  I could host my own videos for another blog.  Dreamhost gives you “unlimited” space and databases.  Thats a plus in my book.  However, some people may argue that “unlimited” is just a gimmick and that hosts with “unlimited” plans are overselling out the ass.  I tend to think that HDD space is cheap, and if you don’t know how much space you really need then “unlimited” become very appealing (even with strings attached).
  2. Control Panel: Dreamhost uses a proprietary control panel that may come off as goofy and limiting to many people, but I felt it was rather charming.  It took some getting used to, but after you get used to it, it works rather well.
  3. Personal Recommendation: My friend hosts his portfolio with Dreamhost and recommended them to me.  A friendly recommendation can be powerful indeed, especially when the person recommending it is someone you know and who has first hand experience.

The glue that sorta pulled everything together came with I realized that all the arguments people had against Dreamhost could be applied to any shared hosting platform, and indeed if you google for info about any host you’re bound to find some negative comments.  Some of them may be legitimate, but I think often times they are fanboy rants trying to steer away legitimate traffic.

At the end of the day, I felt that I was getting a great deal for my needs.  I think that when choosing a webhost, one should really consider what their requirements are and whether or not a particular host can meet those needs.  I hope that this post helps put things into a different perspective for people who are searching for a good webhost.

I’ll close with mentioning that I have nothing bad to say about Innohosting.  They are a superb host that is perfect for anyone whether they are just getting started or know exactly what their requirements are.  Support is also top-notch.  If you are searching for good hosting, I can highly recommend both Innohosting and Dreamhost from first hand experience.  Happy hunting!

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Into Intuos

I bought a new toy this past weekend.  I thought about it for a week.  Then, I went out and bought a Wacom Intuos3.  Originally, I had scoured the internet for ideas and opinions and had settled on the more basic Wacom Bamboo Fun.  However, a buddy from New York mentioned he had had his Intuos for a number of years already and highly recommended it, even though it costs substantially more than the Bamboo.  Simply for the fact that it was well worth the investment.

I think the word “investment” is what really got me thinking.  I could have saved money with the Bamboo. Many people on the interweb used it recreationally and professionally, and it would have been a sound investment.  However, when I really thought about “investment,” it hit me that I should go out and spend the extra money on the extra features of the Intuos3, just in case I ever actually use them.

“Go big or go home,” as my buddy always says.

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Study Against Time

Started studying (read cramming) for the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) Level 1 which is now offered in July as well as December if you live in Japan.  Aaaaand, it just so happens I am planning on taking it in July (and probably December as well).   Now for people not familiar with this test, it is really freaking tough.  Though I guess if you were a student and could dedicate much of your time to studying, then it might be a bit easier.  But for us working folks, and with families mind you, it can be a real strain trying to get enough studying in.

Needless to say, I am jumping the gun trying to take the test in July.  But you know what?  Experience f’ing counts.  ;-) So even if I fail, it’ll totally be worth it.  Well, aside from setting me back $55 -_-

Anywho, so I started studying with smart.fm, formally known as iKnow.  Cerego—the company behind smart.fm—really has something here and I wish things had worked out when I applied for a job with them.  Damn luck.  Anyway, if you haven’t tried it, please do!  Add me if you like, my username is filmoreha!

Okay, time to hit the hay.  Goodluck to any and everyone studying for this test, and goodnight!

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