tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46065902000822635142011-12-19T23:27:14.379-05:00This is a collection of musings and other ephemera gathered during my frequent travels or through my interest in gadgets. Feel free to add comments or questions, which I will try to answer as soon as possibleIllusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.comBlogger2231100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-3949063591127439712011-10-19T18:08:00.000-04:002011-10-19T18:08:55.605-04:00

Florida is getting up to date on voting, no more "hanging chads"?New app unveiled for voter information | www.wdbo.com

Stefan Bartelskihttps://profiles.google.com/109317784790301957797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-90144656445350019062011-10-03T16:16:00.000-04:002011-10-03T16:16:31.746-04:00

"Teach your children well, their parents' hell did slowly go by"Frequent Fliers: Family Edition | The Gate

Stefan Bartelskihttps://profiles.google.com/109317784790301957797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-23218622644883725072011-05-28T17:23:00.001-04:002011-05-28T17:23:31.108-04:00

It haas been a while since I posted, which corresponds with a spell working from home, so not much travel. However my travel is picking up again, and I do want to mention one major change. On my recent DL flights I have managed to travel totally paperless. While I have used mobile check in before, I always had a paper copy as backup. When I derived to Android I discovered that the Delta online

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-41412529177792506212010-12-17T16:01:00.000-05:002010-12-17T16:01:13.882-05:00

After using the WiFi calling at home quite heavily, since cell reception in my house is bad for any provider, I was looking forward to trying it out as an alternative for international calling. And guess what, IT WORKS! On a recent trip to Tokyo, where I would have no cell connection anyway, is was able to call home, and be called, using the WiFi calling. Lucky for me my work required that I rent

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-34657031833854694722010-11-23T22:10:00.000-05:002010-11-23T22:10:36.053-05:00

As you might have seen by an earlier post from Firefly, I took the plunge and switched to the new MyTouch 4G on the T-Mobile network. After using this phone for almost a week, I am very pleased with it. It took a little getting used to it, not so much in the UI, although that was an adjustment from physical keyboard to screen based keyboard, but in ensuring that everything was set-up as I wanted.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-36886420146024252392010-11-22T08:45:00.001-05:002010-11-22T08:45:27.215-05:00

Originally submitted at WireflyThe myTouch 4G for T-Mobile is the newest addition to the myTouch lineup. Running on Android 2.2 operating system, you can customize to your heart's content. With groundbreaking speed and exclusive features, the myTouch 4G is a premium smartphone. Lightning fast 4G speeds lets you download pho... T-Mobile myTouch 4G BlackGreat new phoneBy

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-13281536203201858602010-11-07T13:15:00.001-05:002010-11-23T22:12:24.973-05:00

It looks like something closer to my ideal phone is available  (as per 11/3/2010) - the t-Mobile myTouch 4G. Is uses the HSPA+ network for hogh speed data, and comes with UMA and WiFi hotspot capabilities. Added extra are the front facing camera and the ability to video call using the cellular network, not just on WiFi (using Qik). Click on the title above for a link to some overview videos. But

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-64072211410978273682010-10-04T13:57:00.000-04:002010-10-04T13:57:22.492-04:00

This looks like a serious contender for a phone to replace my AT&T EPIX (WM6.5). Key attributes that I like are: Android 2.2 HSPA+ (near 4G, if not real 4G) Front facing camera (for video chat) WiFi Calling (not full blown UMA, but close enough) 5MP camera Would have been nice if it had: Dual core processor (supposedly better battery life) (Micro)SD card slot (not listed, but who knows) Full

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-10887752404220378672010-07-27T17:27:00.000-04:002010-07-27T17:27:03.654-04:00

I found out that, due to a slight coloring on my "liquid detector" I was not eligible for a warranty replacement of my EPIX after all. However, they did send me a replacement USB cable. And much to my surprise it worked! So I was able to install WM6.5. My initial findings are that the phone is still quite stable (as I seemed to have resolved the WM6.1 instability with the removal of Newsbreak).

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-60347272611502241092010-07-26T16:09:00.001-04:002010-07-26T16:09:10.703-04:00

Test msg from Ping.fm

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-66382803902899977782010-07-11T16:30:00.001-04:002010-07-11T16:30:38.362-04:00

0-0 at the end of regulation, hope this does not go to penalty kicks

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-24576689159055335792010-07-11T14:34:00.001-04:002010-07-11T14:34:06.128-04:00

Watching the big game. Hup Oranje!

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-18448522013597493062010-07-09T03:39:00.001-04:002010-07-09T03:39:05.302-04:00

Great night spoiled in last minutes. In shuttle to car park, teenager stood up and offered me her seat. Do I really look that old?

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-38837580739216878952010-07-09T03:36:00.001-04:002010-07-09T03:36:07.786-04:00

World of Color was typical Disney, magnificent and finished to the nth degree

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-73911596263078515652010-07-09T01:47:00.001-04:002010-07-09T01:47:05.214-04:00

Finishing my magical night at Disney with California Adventure's brans new World of Color

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-42903459912132574892010-07-09T01:46:00.001-04:002010-07-09T01:46:03.361-04:00

Managed to catch one of the last flights to the Moon of Endor. Followed it with the Indiana Jones Adventure.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-76388182077907133712010-07-09T01:44:00.001-04:002010-07-09T01:44:22.849-04:00

Disney has not only the most beautiful fireworks, they are perfectly tme to the soundtrack

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-63775311979067656562010-07-08T22:05:00.001-04:002010-07-08T22:05:07.670-04:00

Oops, 4th July fireworks only last weekend, just their normal/special tonight

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-79390318667345861002010-07-08T21:55:00.001-04:002010-07-08T21:55:05.034-04:00

Special West Coast treat tonight, Disneyland & California Adventure. World of Color as special entertainment, then Disneyland July 4th fireworks

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-84551570183312948942010-07-08T02:51:00.001-04:002010-07-08T02:51:07.525-04:00

Just finished another evening of entertainment at Hollywood's Magic Castle

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-39724145381668333692010-07-07T20:29:00.001-04:002010-07-07T20:29:12.742-04:00

Earthquake was a 5.9, epicenter about 80 miles south of my location. Effective strength here about a 3 (USGS.GOV)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-6760741896747346332010-07-07T19:58:00.001-04:002010-07-07T19:58:08.575-04:00

Just experienced earthquake in Orange County, severity unknown but not large

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-19665894833352522922010-07-03T22:23:00.000-04:002010-07-03T22:23:47.991-04:00

Just when I had given up hope, Samsung finally released the WM6.5 upgrade for my Samsung EPIX. My initial euphoria was dampened when I realized that I could not load the upgrade because my UB connection has stopped working. However my spirits soared again when I realized that I am just (by a few days) within the warranty period. A quick call to AT&T and a new (reconditioned?) phone will be on its

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-59777045197281247902010-07-03T09:54:00.001-04:002010-07-03T09:54:04.296-04:00

Happy and safe Independence weekend to all my friends

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-9056901326075964912010-06-30T23:53:00.001-04:002010-06-30T23:57:11.656-04:00

Due to all the changes mentioned in other blog posts, I needed an easy way to connect to family members in Europe. As a number of them already use Skype, when I saw a deal ($25 incl shipping) for this phone at ThingFling I decided to try it out. I had some initial problems with installation, as this model is a little old and the software did not agree with my newly installed Windows 7 on the

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-66227766535277322442010-06-30T23:43:00.002-04:002010-06-30T23:55:13.095-04:00

In conjunction with installing the AT&T Microcell, I decided to try out Google Voice connected to my cellphone. I am not using the Google Voice number feature, i.e. one number that callers dial, which then tries to connect the call to different phones, e.g. cell phone, work phone, home phone, etc. Instead I am just using it for the voice mail and cheap International calls features. The special

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-25645020629100849032010-06-30T23:23:00.000-04:002010-06-30T23:23:35.259-04:00

Last weekend I finally managed to buy an AT&T Microcell. For those who do not know, this is a gadget that puts a cell tower in your home. We needed this because the AT&T signal at our house is dismal, even outside the house, but definitely insid, i.e. 0-1 bars. After 3 to four tires to activate the device, which the manager of the AT&T store had warned me about, we finally get 4-5 bars thoughout

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-6310303592336519152010-06-27T07:49:00.001-04:002010-06-27T07:49:06.116-04:00

Just got my ATT microcell, and after 4 tries, activated it. Now at least 4 bars throughout house (prev 1 to 0) Bye bye landline

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-18262931447168748692010-06-16T23:50:00.002-04:002010-07-03T22:36:18.584-04:00

Hope to leave soon, after 8! Hours at DTW. Should be home in bed just after 3 am Note: As we deplaned, we received a coupon for the inconvenience, valid for 10,000 SkyMiles or $100. Now that is Customer Service! All passengers received this bonus!. Extra Note: A week later a nice letter from Delta informaing that they had also added another 15,000 miles to my account, for the inconvenience.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-72976418353731775682010-06-16T23:21:00.001-04:002010-06-16T23:21:08.607-04:00

3 hour delayed aircraft (late arrival) now has technical problem. Off to another gate and plane. Joys of travel....

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-41080532220902540152010-06-16T18:50:00.001-04:002010-06-16T18:50:06.209-04:00

Sitting in Detroit airport, flight delayed 2 1/2 hrs, earlier flight full, so long wait :-(

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-21515014868137414502010-06-14T07:11:00.001-04:002010-06-14T07:11:11.051-04:00

Not leaving super early this Monday was nice, but TSA lines are a bear at this "normal" time

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-81462971745280205702010-06-11T04:08:00.001-04:002010-06-11T04:08:04.683-04:00

Just about to board the red-eye to Memphis :-( Connect there and then home.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-31264508618961953652010-06-11T02:30:00.001-04:002010-06-11T02:30:05.707-04:00

At the Magic Castle in Hollywood again, 3rd time in 4 weeks. Sometimes long distance travel has benefits.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-65823221754737370542010-06-04T17:39:00.001-04:002010-06-04T17:39:05.314-04:00

Home again :-) (great song by Hem too)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-1748549268831539462010-06-04T14:13:00.001-04:002010-06-04T14:13:08.170-04:00

One more leg, then home for the weekend :-)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-50797978657560569612010-06-03T21:07:00.001-04:002010-06-03T21:07:08.710-04:00

at the Magic Castle tonight :-D

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-78720438133241755672010-05-31T10:54:00.001-04:002010-05-31T10:54:15.857-04:00

At Celebration's Memorial Day Flag Ceremony. Remembering those that gave their all and honoring those that served.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-80553325701721276832010-05-28T09:55:00.001-04:002010-05-28T09:55:13.852-04:00

On the way home for the long weekend. Odd to be traveling on a Friday, and during daylight.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-45485705484210011502010-05-28T09:54:00.001-04:002010-05-28T09:54:08.448-04:00

Thank goodness for elite lines at TSA. At ORD this a.m. the security lines were snaking thru the terminal. Gold line was just 5 mins, phew.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-90170784451556051202010-05-27T23:47:00.001-04:002010-05-27T23:48:22.053-04:00

I have decided that it is time to start looking for a replacement for my Samsung Epix (WM6.1 on AT&T). Below are some of the alternatives and the pros and cons. Some key overall criteria for me are: Ability to tether or act as hotspot, so I can connect my laptop to the Internet if I have an urgent need. Exchange server sync for email, contacts, calendar and preferably notes Voice control (

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-5422563576375386792010-05-27T22:35:00.000-04:002010-05-27T22:35:59.839-04:00

I would like to give some advice to the IT developers at Delta, while they have some useful tools, these tools do not quite work as they should. As a frequent user of these tools, as well as a business systems consultant I feel that I am in a good position to offer suggestions for improvements. Paperless check-in is great, but why must I always enter my cellphone number. Can Delta not use my

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-11904696248042712752010-05-27T21:54:00.000-04:002010-05-27T21:54:55.854-04:00

About a year ago I posted about switching to a new phone, and promised a follow up when I had more experience with the phone. Well I am afraid that my experience has been bad, on a number issues. I am plagued with the phone freezing frequently, sometimes daily but never less than every third day. (Could be a WM 6.1 issue) Recently my USB connection seems to have stopped working. ATT & Samsung

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-31478584780051489282010-05-20T20:34:00.001-04:002010-05-20T20:34:04.096-04:00

Just baked our first pizza in our new woodfired oven. The only way to eat pizza - woodfired!

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-30037764403116862202010-05-20T16:32:00.001-04:002010-05-20T16:32:19.187-04:00

Flying over the site of the oil disaster, my heart was saddened to see how far the oil slick extends: and yes even from 37000' you see it.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-15648832343550593372010-05-20T10:46:00.001-04:002010-05-20T10:46:09.938-04:00

On the long haul home from the pyrite state, via Salt Lake City.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-81639350876386368992010-05-17T07:51:00.001-04:002010-05-17T07:51:09.718-04:00

You know you are flying early a.m. When there is no line at Cust Service (because of delays) but the Starbucks line snakes thru the terminal

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-25068658770771601302010-04-29T18:07:00.001-04:002010-04-29T18:07:15.932-04:00

On my way home, looks like a great day for flying

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-66957244034410357672010-04-22T19:04:00.001-04:002010-04-22T19:04:06.671-04:00

Train to the airport was packed; lines at TSA are worst in months. Is this a holiday weekend that I missed?

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-65301585023818105022010-04-15T19:06:00.001-04:002010-04-15T19:06:07.396-04:00

After 2 quiet weeks, lines at TSA very long again. The joys of frequent travel ;-)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-34104206364594530922010-04-08T18:28:00.001-04:002010-04-08T18:28:06.218-04:00

Snow in Chicago this afternoon, glad that I am on my way home to Florida and the 80s (temps, not decade)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-69099233970700237022010-04-05T23:52:00.001-04:002010-04-05T23:52:10.213-04:00

#t @talkmaster Ask Waters about her hypocrisyhttp://ping.fm/WtzAW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-64298520421589172952010-04-01T22:20:00.001-04:002010-04-01T22:20:14.854-04:00

Today's trip has been smooth sailing, wish they could all be like this

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-38493258060931473232010-04-01T22:19:00.001-04:002010-04-01T22:19:05.502-04:00

As eventful as my trip out was last Sunday,

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-17803018510863914922010-04-01T19:34:00.001-04:002010-04-01T19:34:07.632-04:00

Lucky day today, no wait at TSA, upgraded on a flight out of ORD (should of bought a lottery ticket)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-77856530909270871912010-03-28T20:22:00.001-04:002010-03-28T20:22:48.702-04:00

Missed cxn in ATL due to weather in MCO. Standy by for last flt to Chicago :-(

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-22258424934327740202010-03-26T01:13:00.001-04:002010-03-26T01:13:04.008-04:00

Bumpy ride into MCO tonight.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-33847181213577278682010-03-25T19:49:00.001-04:002010-03-25T19:49:03.797-04:00

TSA was not so bad today @ MDW, 15 mins from in-line to cleared.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-21860724870541830862010-03-25T18:17:00.007-04:002010-03-25T18:17:31.429-04:00

Heading home again, dear old CTA taking me to MDW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-14757241624364968212010-03-25T18:17:00.005-04:002010-03-25T18:17:27.739-04:00

Heading home again, dear old CTA taking me to MDW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-60032017127134839202010-03-25T18:17:00.003-04:002010-03-25T18:17:23.825-04:00

Heading home again, dear old CTA taking me to MDW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-44800429993700890942010-03-25T18:17:00.001-04:002010-03-25T18:17:21.014-04:00

Heading home again, dear old CTA taking me to MDW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-79037793940576828082010-03-18T19:11:00.001-04:002010-03-18T19:11:13.997-04:00

Waiting to leave the Windy City and ride that pencil in the sky home

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-88708597578157546862010-03-14T21:41:00.001-04:002010-03-14T21:41:08.191-04:00

Finally finished the family room with new fireplace and big plasma screen.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-9118379101935746612010-03-12T00:59:00.003-05:002010-03-12T00:59:04.795-05:00

Oops, that should be "Stuck in ATL....."

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-82516708696991632112010-03-12T00:59:00.001-05:002010-03-12T00:59:03.992-05:00

Tuck in Atlanta for a short overnight, due to weather problems and missed connection.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-13087197864063214592010-03-01T09:28:00.000-05:002010-03-01T09:28:26.081-05:00

A while back I extolled the benfits of Stuffbak tracking labels, as my cell phone was returned using one of them. Unfortunately I am trying out their service again, as I left my Bose QC2 noise reduction headset on a flight last night (DL1328 MCO-ATL 2/28 seat 4A). We will see if I hear anything in the next couple of days.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-77372554510207569572010-02-22T16:05:00.001-05:002010-02-22T16:05:06.055-05:00

Sick in bed(flu), away from home, not much fun :-(

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-50207051414593691722010-02-21T17:41:00.001-05:002010-02-21T17:41:06.341-05:00

Good news for the airlines, people are flying again. I measure that by my increased wait times at TSA; 30 mins today against 10 4-5 weeks ago

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-86937618383510408302010-02-17T23:19:00.000-05:002010-02-17T23:19:15.697-05:00

Having used my new Zuca Pro now for about 6 roundtrips, it is time to give an update on my experiences. Overall I am very pleased with this luggage, it has met and exceeded my expectations. I have been able to pack everything that I need, even for a recent trip when I actually spent 5 nights away from home. The packing cubes work really well, all I have to do is remember to unroll my shirts and

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-83820978338132982182010-02-17T23:07:00.000-05:002010-02-17T23:07:51.064-05:00

In the month of January I was very happy to see that Orlando was added to the list of airports that allowed Delta's paperless check-in. Coupled with some changes to Delta's technology, so that you now receive a link to a web-site that can be bookmarked, it seemed a good thing to go paperless. As I am traveling to and from Chicago, where both airports also participate in this program, for three

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-36065529307377030692010-02-15T20:48:00.001-05:002010-02-15T20:48:14.962-05:00

Snowing again in Chi-town, OK as long as is is over b4 I leave later this week

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-44877162793359410572010-01-31T21:22:00.001-05:002010-01-31T21:22:05.871-05:00

Back up to the Windy (& cold) City. One of those days, but I just managed to make my connection.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-16549321747745536272010-01-22T21:39:00.001-05:002010-01-22T21:39:06.551-05:00

an unexpected treat tonight, Phantom of the Opera, live at the Bob Carr

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-71649325673548503872010-01-21T18:33:00.001-05:002010-01-21T18:33:32.119-05:00

Wow, that was fast! 45 mins desk to security MDW

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-43914798520940156352010-01-21T18:12:00.001-05:002010-01-21T18:12:06.328-05:00

On my way home from an icy Chicago.

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-72317372118884111052010-01-08T01:56:00.001-05:002010-01-08T01:56:07.714-05:00

Phew, finally made it home. Thank goodness most trips are not like today's

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-21980354464791052612010-01-07T08:26:00.001-05:002010-01-07T08:26:59.077-05:00

Uh oh, 2 cnxl on 1 trip, must be a record. Hopefully I can get out of ORD today

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-40670009994797955912010-01-07T01:27:00.001-05:002010-01-07T01:27:06.361-05:00

Uh oh, Delta just cancelled one of my flights, so I get home real latetomorrow. With the upcoming weather, it might be "if I am lucky!"

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-22669628270899162682010-01-04T01:00:00.001-05:002010-01-04T01:00:05.458-05:00

On my way back to Chicago. just looking forward to the cold (NOT). Happy New Year to all my friends and colleagues

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-67233319953733740792010-01-03T17:54:00.001-05:002010-01-04T01:02:26.713-05:00

On my last trip of the year, my faithful Tumi of 15 years finally gave up the ghost (again), or at least one of the wheels. I had promised myself that this time I would not repair it (as there were two things to fix, the wheels and the main zipper). Instead I finally bit the bullet and bought myself a new bag. I decided to go with the Zuca-Pro and was even able to get a good deal at

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-84066178345960674742009-12-22T14:23:00.000-05:002009-12-22T14:23:36.503-05:00

The Woman Road Warrior site has a great peom base on the "The Night Before Christmas", called "The Flight Before Christmas". Worth a read at this time of year. And safe travel to everyone, all the best for 2010 Your "Geek On The Road" Stefan

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-9838789526239992442009-12-17T18:57:00.001-05:002009-12-17T18:57:08.261-05:00

Made my connection tonight by 2 minutes, phew!

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-65439973535529057352009-12-17T15:55:00.001-05:002009-12-17T15:55:08.099-05:00

weather great, now maintenance problem delay out of ORD. Tight cnxn in ATL, so no chance. Thanks Delta for rebooking on next flight

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-28886339365253393772009-12-13T22:08:00.001-05:002009-12-13T22:08:06.499-05:00

Bad weather in ATL so delay getting and 1 hour delay out :-(

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-83042306458965247192009-12-13T21:35:00.000-05:002009-12-13T21:35:38.818-05:00

I just found out that GoGo Inflight have changed their pricing plans, giving far more flexible approach. For flights less than 1 1/2 hours the charge is only $4.95, and a day pass is now $12.95 (same as the 3 hours + rate). In between the two is a $7.95 charge for mobile devices (smartphones, etc.), for 3 hour + flights. This seems a more reasonable pricing, so will probably result in more

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-25944283432220617342009-12-13T21:33:00.001-05:002009-12-13T21:33:05.684-05:00

Back off to Chicago, from 80 F to 20 F? At least it is warmer than last week

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-3664193662542787192009-12-13T21:28:00.000-05:002009-12-13T21:28:46.982-05:00

A while back I made mention of my set of laminated gate check labels, an effort to be more evnironmentally correct by not needing a new label for each flight. On a couple of recent Delta Connection flights, I have been forced to use new labels as it is claimed they are now scanning the gate checked luggage. I do not understand why re-using the same label should be a problem, especially if the

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-44486302260634384222009-12-10T07:51:00.001-05:002009-12-10T07:51:17.931-05:00

C-c-cold in Chicago this a.m. only 2 degrees, -20 with windchill. Looking forward to heading home tonight (80 degrees today)

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-76359862393847288462009-12-10T01:20:00.001-05:002009-12-10T01:20:03.518-05:00

Now that Tiger lost the Gatorade sponsorship, maybe Viagra should be thenext sponsor

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-64570802367741673482009-12-09T21:59:00.001-05:002009-12-09T21:59:04.172-05:00

The snow continues to fall in Chicago, luckily though not sticking on the ground

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-62761643063658079132009-12-07T08:49:00.001-05:002009-12-07T08:49:04.408-05:00

Woke up this morning to a blanket of white across Chicago. Will make for some fun getting to the client

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-36260943759197558872009-12-06T14:28:00.001-05:002009-12-06T14:28:58.685-05:00

Oops, I did it again, forgot to take the Delta 1st class water bottle out of my briefcase. This time the bottle went through at least two airport scans. At the last one they even did a hand search because they had seen a bottle, then decided it was my aspirin bottle! I must admit that even I did not find the bottle until three days afterwards either, and then just by chance. But it shows you how

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-42602175910689939822009-12-04T18:19:00.001-05:002009-12-04T18:19:03.652-05:00

Website?My new website is almost ready at www.patriotcomelately.com. Look for further details soon including FB name change

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-92233090991250134142009-12-03T15:14:00.001-05:002009-12-03T15:14:04.875-05:00

Snow in Chicago today. That should be fun

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-45407020288682185042009-11-18T19:05:00.001-05:002009-11-18T19:05:22.033-05:00

Magic club tonight! Probably my last monthly meeting before I start traveling again. Nice to see the guys again

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-84703772598876167162009-11-17T11:41:00.001-05:002009-11-17T11:41:06.403-05:00

Off to magicians' lunchStefan BartelskiSent from my Samsung EPIXEmail on the goNow that is real magic

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-79907074840830191812009-11-13T21:49:00.001-05:002009-11-13T21:49:06.368-05:00

Christmas Wishes fireworks, Disney has really mastered the art of fireworks to music - Spectacular

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-72156838666789004582009-11-13T21:27:00.001-05:002009-11-13T21:27:05.974-05:00

The Magic Kingdom Christmas parade is way better than the Halloween version

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4606590200082263514.post-84203347851672275212009-11-13T19:35:00.001-05:002009-11-13T19:35:26.228-05:00

It's snowing on Main Street, Christmas is really coming!

Illusioneerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115775154501529193noreply@blogger.com0