She was my hero, in so many ways, for so many reason.

 

R.I.P. Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher, the actress and writer best known for her iconic role as Star Wars’ Princess Leia, died days after suffering a heart attack while onboard a flight from London to Los Angeles. She was 60.

:D Have a great one!

Happy Birthday  to TheRealStanLee !

On1 Photo Raw and CS5

I know many people who do not want to 'rent' Adobe, and didn't get CS6. On1 PhotoRaw 2017 doesn't install to CS5, but I did manage to get it working with it. 

I have a legit copy of CS5 E on my computer. There is a function in On1 Photo Raw 2017 stand along that allows you to 'punt' a processed image into photo editing program, but sometimes you don't want to have to save the image, and reopen it in the Standalone.

This was my solution.

I downloaded and installed trial version of CC (I have no intention of renting it after the trial date). I installed On1 Photo Raw.  It installed to the Photoshop CC but not (as expected) to CS5.  I started the Stand Alone Photo Raw, signed in. All good!

Then went to Adobe Photoshop CC directory, navigated to the Plugins folder, copied the On1 2017 folders to the CS5 plugin folder.

I was able to use all the features of On1 Photo Raw with CS5.

Not sure if you will have to keep the CC trial, unused, on your system to update On1, but fairly sure you will.  But nothing says you have to uninstall the trial if you choose to not have a membership, and as long as On1 'sees' the newer version, you update On1 as the updates come along and just copy them over again.

What I have discovered using Affinity for PC Software

Registax, Helicon or other focus stacking software isn't a needed 'extra'. I just did a 10 JPG image focus stack of the moon, and unlike many different versions of Photoshop that kept complaining not enough overlap, Affinity lined up each image, stacked them perfectly.

 

 

And the good news is that since Affinity is 64bit, you aren't restricted to image size like in Registax, which is 32bit (it's Freeware, and works wonderfully, but that 32bit limit can cause stacking failure) It imported and stacked 50 RAW files flawlessly. I watched as it stacked the image, bit by bit. No ghosts, no mis-aligned areas.

On1 Photo Raw Pre-Release

Because Wing misunderstood, I feel I should clear this up, regarding On1 Photo Raw. (I'm using the Pre-Release, as I pre ordered. The 'real' version will be out soon) Even though you can do many edits/adjustments/processing with On1 Raw, you will want to use (still need to use) a photo editor. What On1 Raw allows you to do is use other versions of editing software. Example, Adobe Photoshop. You can do all you processing/adjustments/On1 Plugins in On1 Raw, then punt the processed JPG into earlier version of Photoshop. No more will you get the dreaded "Camera Raw Not supported" message.

You can now edit the images with all the RAW editing power of ACR and much more, and then finish it in the photo editor of your choice.

I tried sending them directly to Nik plugins via On1 Raw, but it Nik can't save the changes so you need to use Photoshop or other program. I have sent On1 Raw edited image to Photoshop CS5, CS6, CC 32 and 64bit versions to use Photoshop plugins like NIK or Alienskin. Also sent images to Affinity for Windows, Corel PSP 6, 7, 8 and 9, and Zoner Photo Studio to finish edits testing other "Photoshop compatible" plugins. Some work, some don't. Yes, there will a learning curve as there is using any new photo editing program. And Bonus, it works in earlier versions of Lightroom too. I have sent the On1 Photo Raw edited JPG into Lightroom 5x and 6x. No problem, so no need to 'subscribe' with Adobe to keep your photo raw editor up to date.

Imported to Lightroom 5x

Import as usual.

So, if you still have Photoshop CS2/3/4/5/6 (these are the ones I had to test), and earlier versions of Lightroom, and have a new camera that you get the PHOTOSHOP CANNOT OPEN THE FILE and don't want to have to double up on storage space by having to use a DNG converter, or having to rent Photoshop, this is for you. Or if you want a Raw editor that is above and beyond Adobe Camera raw in functionality and editing power. As it's still the pre-release, I haven't tested if or how it does panoramas, yet, but you can apply On1 Raw adjustments over a group of photos you want to make into a panorama.

Finally! Only took two tries.

I finally got a straight answer from MicroSoft in regards to getting my poor Vaio back to abby-normal Windows 8.1 after the disaster that was Win10 update.  All I needed was a new Windows 8 license key, because the Windows 10 disaster invalidated my current one, even with the roll back. After almost frying my computer, JM had the audacity to tell me that a new License key would be $40... Excuse me?

So, I  gave them my ASSURE info, then let my son Alan tell them the problem.So, Alan took over the keyboard and told them that the Win10 almost bricked my computer, took 3 hours to login to be able to roll it back, but I am still having persistent problems, and need a new OEM key to do a Repair Install (aka fixes specific issues without doing a factory reset) and that it was update to Win8 on the Vail was a digital download. 

Ta Da! New OEM key provided, and dling Windows 8.1 Pro with Windows Media Center! (not so much I need Media Center itself, but I need specific DLLs that allows other programs to work.

That's a relief

It's a small expense, but beats what it could have been.  Turns out the desktops'  power supply is the issue.  Alan checked it out, tested it, and the power supply on my desktop is kaput!   The good news is, is that that is the simplest easiest fix in regards to the inside of a computer.

And, as much as the issues with the Vaio irk me, I am so glad I have it. 

Really?

Get up this morning, get the the purrkids fed, get the coffee started, take care of feline toileting receptacles.

Boot up computer.... or should I say press power button.  *Click* nothing.  Check to see if Ziggy managed to unplug something. Shut off master switch, depress power button for 30 seconds, discharging any residual electricity.  Press power button.  *Click*

My bet (and hope) is that the same thing that took out the motherboard/cpu a while back, weakened the power supply and it just went.

Will have Alan test it out when he gets up.  Using Sony VAIO with all USB hubs plugged in. Will have to do the 'Dance of the HDs" on occasion, but I can deal with that

Now isn't that interesting

I think Zoner Photo Studio is regretting their decision to emulate Adobe's 'rent our software' business model.

Just got a newsletter email that they're offering 8 months free.  No sale, ZPS!  Told you, if you decide to have a standalone version, fine, but I do NOT rent software.

Canon 5DmkIV

And for the most part, I will have to say it's passed with flying colors.

It isn't made for sports or fast action photography, or wildlife photography, but you know something?  I was able to track and photograph birds flying overhead, with amazing accuracy.  With the high speed continuous shutter not being as loud as its' predecessor, it can be used for wildlife photography without scaring away your subjects, most of the time (there are always some that are camera shy). 

Over the weekend, I used the 5D4 at the Perth Zoo (not many moving subjects) and at Herdsman Lake, in Selby, where there were a lot of moving subjects.

Perth Zoo:

Silver Gull doing a flyby - The AF tracking kept the gull in focus

AF focusing, AI Servo mode, kept the dragonfly, in flight, in focus.

Auto ISO works a treat, and the new sensor; even in shady conditions, you don't get excessive noise.

Details, sharpness and better dynamic resolution.

Herdsman Lake:

AI Servo Auto Focus Tracking keeps the running Purple Swamphen in focus.

Tracking a Kite overhead, the 5D4 kept the subject in focus.

Nankeen Night Heron coming in for a landing.

Straight from camera, the dynamic range is heads and shoulder above the 5D4's previous incarnations.

To sum up: it's not just a few extra tweaks or a new coat of paint. Many of the above shots I would not have been able to do with the 5D3. Not saying the 5D3 is a bad camera, but it's successor is just that much better.

On1 Photo RAW 2017–First Impressions

No longer will you be saddled with Adobe Camera Raw popup telling your version of Photoshop that the file format is unknown. 

To use it as a plugin for photoshop you do need version C6 and above.

That being typed, make sure you already have your earlier version of photoshop up and running CS5 (which I did) then On1 Raw 2017 stand alone, do all your edits/adjustments in On1, right click on image and "Send to Photoshop" and it will open as a 16bit PSD with all your edits and adjustments.  Not sure if this worked because I have CS6 and Trial CC installed.  If so, leave the trial CC installed, and keep using CS5. :D  Or just scroll down and select “Send to other application” and select your version of Photoshop, or other photo editing software.

This was just a quick On1 Raw edit, with some tweaks to dynamic contrast, and a bit of sky enhancing.

Remember, one of the biggest reasons people started ‘renting’ Creative Cloud was because of no Camera Raw support for new cameras except for CC.  With On1Raw you don't have to worry about having to convert everything over to DNGs, doubling your storage needs (unless you delete the CR2/ORF/RAW etc etc files after converting)

Canon 5DmkIV, first impression

First off, even with the new features and buttons, the Canon 5DmkIV is familiar enough to use straight out of the box. Got things set up, and then read some (not all) of the manual.

4 images, BIRDS ON A STICK! lens correction done, cropped down to main subject for close viewing, no other editing.

 

The Good

1: Handles higher ISOs wonderfully.  I shot these photos at ISO 800, one in direct sunlight, one in partial shading and two in full shade.  I didn't run any noise reduction, either in camera or in post. No noise worth mentioning at all.

The Good part II.

2: Sensor is MAD with details!  Even in shots #2 and 3 which are in shadow, the fine details in the feathers and on the twigs is clearly visible. Dynamic range is much better than its predecessor.

The good thing this is good because the other is just ok.

3: The high speed continuous shutter speed is a helluva lot quieter in the 5D4 compared to the 5D3 or the 7D2, and faster than the 5D3. This is a good thing, because the low speed silent continuous is slow. And I mean s..l..o..w.  That being typed, with the high speed continuous nowhere near as noisy as in previous or different Canon models, it can be used if you need a faster frame rate, but still want to remain rather quiet.

Now, I have only had it for a few hours, reading the manual, setting it up and will have a more detailed review after some serious use.

Lovingly indulged, not spoiled

Ziggy had to have two infected teeth removed. Since she is a raw meat eater, Dr Dinesh said that would be better for her, as he gums would be sore.... and asked if it was possible to warm it first. I looked at him and said "We always warm it." (Power level 3, 20 seconds in the microwave)

She's not overly happy with us, as we have to medicate her twice a day (One dose of anti-inflammatory, two doses of antibiotic). Wing does the morning dosages with me (anti inflammatory, one antibiotic) , and Alan helps me with the second antibiotic dose. Best thing is to swaddle her in a huge, thick towel right up to her ears so she can't squirm away. She fights longer than it takes to give her the damned doses!

Just have to remember to feed her warmed raw meat at least twice a day. Don't want her trying to eat kibble.

Affinity Photo Beta, Windows Public Beta

Tested some other plugins - PTLens Correction by PaperPress, causes the program to shut down without an error message. Same applies to DxO ViewPoint2 and FilmPack. Anthropics Tech Portrait Professional works.
 
A few follow ups about NIK software;  Yes, it does work, with a few caveats.  You lose the Brush features with Viveza and Define.  You also can't 'save recipes' with ColorEfex Pro 4.  Also, with Viveza 2,  the colors of your image in the 'preview' window won't look correct on the entire, unless you zoom to at least 33%, but are correct in the 'thumbnail' window. 

There are known 'glitches' when NIK is used with other 'non-Adobe' photo editors.

Affinity Photo Beta , Windows Public Beta

Since ZonerPhoto went rental, I have been on the look out for a new, GOOD, alternative to Photoshop.  I found one.  Affinty Photo. It has been available for Mac users, but they have now come out with a Windows version, and I have to say, I like it.  A lot!

So far, once I figured out that they wouldn't work on CR2/ORF/RAW or other raw files, I exported image as a JPG.  So far, I have gotten good results with Nik Viveza 2, Define 2, Color Efex Pro 4, HDR Efex Pro 2, Silver Efex Pro 2, Topaz Labs, and Focus Magic.  Alien Skin plugins have issues with Pixel transparency, Piccure and Piccure Plus just don't start, and neither do Redfield plugins. And it doesn't even see any of my OnOne/On1 plugins. Oh well, proprietary software can be something of a boondoggle, yes?
 
Many of these haven't been tested by Affinity programmers, but I thought I would give them a try.
 
Many of the 'native' filters and tools amazing. It has some features and tools that Photoshop/Lightroom do not have (or if they do, I haven't found them)

Overall, I am rather impressed.

Ah, life can be funny

Ziggy is at the vet as we are trying to figure out why her left nostril is a 'snot rocket'.  I can use a Nehti pot to flush my sinuses out, but one can't do that do a conscious cat.  Not unless one wants a lot of scratches and other injuries. So, anesthesia, X-Ray, flush sinuses, swab detritis for tests, blood tests to see if there is any underlying viral issue causing the recurring infection.

I get a phone call from the vet, that Ziggy has two infected back teeth and they have to come out (and yes, I think that might be the reason for the sinus infection, but will see later when we talk to the vet.

So, hit with "This will add another $350 on the vet bill for dental extraction."  *sigh* Give the ok because we do have pet insurance, and if we have the vet put that it was an oral infection, not dental scaling for cosmetic reasons, there is a good chance at least part of it might be covered for rebate, but we still have to pay it out first.

What do I find in the mail box today?  A refund check for Ziggy's LAST vet visit for $206.  At least that will mitigate some of the pay out.

If you can't out stubborn a cat, out think her!

Ziggy, like I, have been hammered by allergies due to controlled burn-offs.

Problem is getting her medication into her. She is a small cat, but so so strong, it takes two of us to scruff her, hold her, open her mouth to get 1/4 of a pill into her.

As I don't like doing that way all the time, I hid her antihistamine in her meat..  a bit of a pill, about the size of a sesame seed. She ate all the meat all around it, avoiding it.

*sigh*  LIGHTBULB!

When she wasn't looking I squished the meat juice soaked piece of pill on my fingertip. Made a noise that made her look at me, then pointed at her, and when she went to sniff, I rubbed it on the inside of her gums.

*slurp slurp*  Dirty look.

Mission accomplished!

First it was my knee

I hyper extended my lower right leg last week, and my knee is still letting me know it didn't like it. I ended up getting a 'patella band', and it does help.

Sooooo.. I was letting Ziggy in, and try to avoid stepping on Loki, I stubbed the little toe on my left foot, splitting the nail right down the middle. *sigh*

Garmin, you really suck

My old Samsung Galaxy 5, which had Navigon by Garmin on it, took a fall and starting having issues.

So, I got a new Samsung S7 and used SmartSwitch to import all my apps. 

I started up Navigon, and got message that "This service is no longer a available" and to head to Google Play.

Ok, I did and discovered that I would have to shell out $40 if I wanted it to work.  I charged up my S5, and even without a SIM chip, Navigon works on it.  This is the only app I have been told I have to 're-buy' to use it on new device.

So, yes, Garmin, you suck.

As much as I like DIVX player

I had been having problems with VLC, it would 'forget' what audio device for sound and when I reselected which one, restarted it would start with the volume locked in 150%.  So, I uninstalled it and installed DIVX.

DIVX player has better sound, can rescale video up while keeping the image quality good, it has a few things that irk me.  It won't open in full screen when it starts, doesn't play DVDs unless you rip them to a hd, and 'stop' is missing from the tool bar.

I know it sounds petty but like water dripping in the middle of the night it can end up being enough. So, I reinstalled VLC player and hoped the issues I had been having were 'fixed' with a fresh install.

Although VLC doesn't have as good a sound quality, it does play DVDs, and can be configured to open full screen on start up.

Do I look like some shady character?

My knee has been bothering me almost a week.  Regardless, I went for a walk, albeit slightly slower than usual trying to make sure I didn't limp, and kept my steps even. I still lurch a bit, because of the leg bit lazy.

As usual, I brought camera with me to take photos of birds, flowers, things of interest to me.

I had just gotten to the turn to back onto my street, and I hear a voice behind me. 

"Can I help you?

I look around, and spot a young man, tradesman by the look of his vehicle, in front of the house that has two beautiful German Shepherds. 

"Oh, hello there!"

He repeated "Can I help you?" very polite.

I replied "Oh, I live here. Just taking a walk, getting photos of birds, flowers and other odds and ends, but thank you for asking." and continued on my way.

He waited until I was at the 2nd left turn, or as I call it "into the homestretch" because I can see my house, and followed me.  I walked up my driveway, up to front door, inserted key and opened the door. I smiled and waved at him, he smiled and toodled off.

I think he was making sure I was ok, as I was in some obvious discomfort.  What a nice young man.

Amazing how much cat fur accrues

I'm just starting to get back into the game... The game of house cleaning.  I don't think any of the floors have been vacuumed since mid-August, coincidentally when my shoulder was operated on.  I have this receptacle on my bagless vacuum cleaner that collects fur, hair, sand, etc etc so the small filter/cannister doesn't get filled up. 

Three times, I had to empty the receptacle out, and it's half filled again. That is only after my office, Wing 's office, master bedroom and the open area.

Where one fell to the curb, another stepped up

Last week, I blogged about how Zoner Photo had gone to the dark side, and went Subscription only with their latest release that had finally included support for layers. I had, prior to that, heartily recommended them as an alternative to the Adobe Creative Cloud model of 'renting' software. 

Well, there are still alternatives to renting.. one of them is Cyberlink PhotoDirector 8.  It's NOT rental/subscription. There will be a bit of a learning curve as there is when using new software.  If you, like I, have a lot of photos, it will take some time to import their folders into PhotoDirector. Not copying them, just importing like other programs do.

The editing is pretty straight forward and clean. And it supports editing in layers.

I have only just installed the latest version, and am in the process of importing folders.  I will take it through its paces after the import, and see just what it can do. :)

That figures

I finally get Registax to work by reducing size of 10 images to 80%  (easy to 'embiggen' back to original size), as it's 32 bit so can only access 4gbs of the 32gb of ram I have installed.

Soooo, I get it working, get my footed monopod ready.. only to have clouds and rain.

Figures. (laughing)

POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNING:

Ok. people must have noticed (yeah, right) how strongly I have come out against Donald Trump's sexually assaulting women by groping their genitals (aka grabbing their pussy). Many of his supporters think it's because of the language, but fuck that, I have a potty mouth, and words don't make me go all a'flutter.

I cringed when I heard the un-bleeped audio on he video of his bragging about grabbing women by the pussy and saying he can (not might, or would but CAN) get away with hit because he is a 'star'. I then flinched when I read the statement from one woman, then another, then another came forward with their own stories of being groped (Trump supporters, groped is 'nice' term for being sexually assaulted) by Donald Trump.

Why? Well, there is a reason my Ex is my Ex. The 'straw' was when I wasn't paying attention to him as I was writing an email to someone, he CRAMMED his hand/fingers under my clothing, into my crotch, bruising my genitals to the point it took close to two weeks for be to be able to sit comfortable or to wear jeans/shorts.

Now, I know there will be right wing nuts that will say it was my 'duty' to submit to my husband, or say I am bitter, but fuck you and the horse you rode in on. Bitter? No, I just don't want any other women being subjected to this treatment, and have the abuse dismissed because the man doing it is 'a star' or for ANY FUCKING REASON!

Yes, I believe these women. I believed the woman who came out in the 1990s, and I believe the others coming forward now. And I think now that the floodgate is opened, there will be more.

Well, Zoner Studio, it was fun while it lasted

For a few years, I have been recommending Zoner Photo Studio Pro for photo editing as an alternative to having to 'rent' Adobe products.

For some unfathomable reason, ZP has decided to go the 'rental route', with monthly subscriptions. And if you don't renew, the software is booby trapped so it will stop working.  They don't offer any other licensing except renewal payments monthly or yearly. 

Since they have decided to go this way, I can no longer recommend it as Adobe alternative. You might as well rent Adobe Photoshop.

Week 9 Post Op

It seems the different dressing, a pressure dressing, is stopping the over-granulation, so I won't need silver nitrate injections to 'level it'.  That's a mercy! Also, the inflammation due to waterproof dressing and solocite has gone way down.

Wound debrided, area swabbed, new double padded pressure dressing applied.

Go back Friday for re-assessment. (Yes, Wing I know, it's a right pain in the ass but I do try to get the appointments as early as possible or as late as possible. There is no magic wand or potion. )

8 Weeks Post Op

Went back to the doc for reassessment.  The tissue has filled up to skin level.  It's a bit over-granulated, so change of dressing. No more waterproof ones, we have to let the wound 'dry' without scabbing over.  Now, it has reached skin level, and it needs to 'skin over'. The doc wants me to have flexibility, not a stiff hard scar that could tear itself or skin around it when stretched.

I go back on Monday.

Well, that was disappointing

Now that I found an 'anti-gravity device' I can wear (exercise bra, with straps that X across the back, missing the healing surgical wound) tt seems my 8 weeks recovering from shoulder surgery has pretty much set my fitness level back to almost where it was when I first started my daily walks.  Maybe not that bad, because I was still able to do the entire route, but I was plodding like and old horse the last 100 meters or so.

*sigh*  So, not at square one... maybe square 3?

*tap tap tap* Dear Right Wing Nut Jobs

and those suffering from Obama Derangement Syndrome; 

I see you are recycling the NRA memes meant to instill fear in your ignorant hateful hearts. Mrs Obama is NOT doing diddly squat in regards to taking your guns. This has been ongoing bullshit for 8 fucking years! Y'all still have your BOOM STICKS, don't you?
 
The NRA and it's GOP sycophants have been filling your heads (not that it takes much to fill them) with the EEEEVIL BLACKS IN THE *WHITE* HOUSE are after your guns!  And you have responded exactly as the NRA and gun manufacturers have wanted you to, like Pavlovian dogs. You scurried out and bought even MORE guns.

Now that the Obama administration is winding down, the NRA and RWNJs and sycophants have been at it again. They are counting on your being so ignorant (which you are) that you won't know that Ms Clinton (or any president) CAN NOT REPEAL AN AMENDMENT!  It has to be done by Senate/House vote and then ratified.
 
And BTW, Mr Trump is about as qualified to be President as an amoeba is to be an astronaut.  Great business man? 6 bankruptcies. Honest and trustworthy? Really? Serial adulterer, steals from companies that work for him (what else do you can getting goods and services, then not paying for them?). 

You say he's a "Good Christian"?  Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery. Thou shalt not steal, Thou Shalt Not Bear False Witness.  His diplomatic skills are non-existent, and he confuses temperament with his temper tantrums.  He thinks bombing for someone flipping the bird is a good idea?  Really?  Shall we get started with his hard on for using nukes?
 
He will be good for American Jobs?  Only if you can convince him to bring HIS manufacturing jobs/companies from China and Mexico (you know, the same countries he said were 1: Creators of the Global Warming (climate change) Hoax, and 2: Sending rapists and murderers.
How about his not paying taxes, letting y'all foot his share? That doesn't make him 'smart'. It makes him a Draft Dodging Tax Evader.

I don't give two shits about email, I really don't. The servers weren't hacked, and almost all of the supposed classified emails were classified months after they were forwarded inter-office.  The ones that weren't properly marked.. nuff said. And the only people that saw the classified ones were the ones who were supposed to. It was and is a sound bite, and a weak one at that.

Dishonest, untrustworthy? Of course, after being spoon fed those sound bites with every conversation from Republicans for 30 years, again..Pavlovian response.

Benghazi, you say?  Darlin', when she was Sec State, she asked for more funding for more security and your precious GOP not only voted NO, they slashed the budget year after year. You should be angry with them, not her.

And if your responses to this are idiotic, already thrice debunked links, and memes, I will ignore them.  If you start with insults and browbeating, that is what the DELETE function is for.

Finally got to see GHOSTBUSTERS 2016

And for the life of me, I can't figure out why there was so much antipathy in regards to it.

The script was a bit weak, but the acting was excellent. The FX didn't dominate the movie. Was it great? No, but it was very enjoyable.  I loved the tribute to Harold Ramis, and the cameos from some of the actors from the original movie.  I was well and truly entertained.

Again, no clue, other than pure piss-headedness, why this movie generated so much hatred towards one of the actors. She did a wonderful job.. they all did.

Yesterday, I got an email from U.S. Embassy in Perth

About return mailing of Absentee Ballots.  Oh hello!  I haven't even received mine yet, so I sent an email to the registrar in the state I am registered to vote in as to when I will be receiving it.

They aren't being mailed out until Sept 24th.  Whohuhwha?  Let's do a little math here.

Absentee ballots get mass mailed out Saturday September 24th.  Takes two to three weeks to get here. I get it filled out, and it will take another two to three weeks to get back there.

That is cutting it too fine, too close. What if the ballot doesn't get here, gets lost in the mail? 

I am going to suggest to them, that next Federal election, after the primaries are over send the absentee ballots out!  There are places to put in write in candidates.  Because waiting until the last week in September?  Oh hell no!

Another 6 Week Post-Op check up

Had to go back early because of the dressing springing a 'leak' from people poking, patting or pushing on it. (It's that cosmic rule, if any part of your body is hurt or injured, it becomes a magnet for being touched or poked)

It was 'fixed' on Tuesday, but had to go back today. Fun part! Dressing removed, wound cleaned of 'uses' solugel/intrasite gel, waited for Dr H to come take a peek.  It's still healing, but there was a bit more granulation than the doctors liked. *sigh*  Wound debrided, rinsed with sterile saline, gel daubed back into it, waterproof dressing reapplied.

Ok, wound is still about the size of an almond, but only 2mm deep now.  I am getting a bit rashy under the dressing, but I get that with all bandaging. Skin is a bit sensitive to the adhesive.  Don't care, told the nurse, I would rather deal with a bit of itch, than another dressing leakage.  Anyhow, I can't reach there to scratch. :D Go back in another week for another dressing change and assessment. 

I'm just waiting for the day we can 'allow' it to scab over and use a regular bandaid on it.

That was a surprising change

I like Capture One photo editing software. It's a great RAW editor, with a lot of tools.

However, it tended to be very slow and clunky, even with a high end computer.  The current version I had was 9.2.1.  There was update to 9.3, so I downloaded and installed it.

And I tried it out, and was pleasantly surprised to see that the masking tools was faster and not so 'draggy'.  Adjusting the sliders was immediate.  I don't know what they changed, but I was happy to see it working much faster than it had before.

Wound care, week 6, it sprung a leak!

Told nurse what happened, and what Wing did at home with what we had, then going to pharmacy, getting post op bandages, and 'patching it'.

I Lifted shirt and she chuckled "That's one leak that will never happen again!" (he had over done the bandaging but I sort of knew that)

So, she took em all off (wince ouch wince ouch) cleaned Instracite gel (cold cold cold sterile saline, make funny ouchie face). Doc H took a look, said it took no harm from the leak, and to just COAT the wound, not fill, with some more gel, put clear patch/bandage over it and come back Friday.

The Nurse stopped by Wing and told him if she ever needed another nurse, she would be calling on him, because he did that good of a job of patching the dressing. :D

Ever want to say "Next time you try to screw me, at least kiss me first."

I am selling a not quite 2yr old Lumix 100-300 lens, that is in mint condition, because I have Kipon EF to MFT adapter and now use my canon 70-300 L on my Olympus EM1. I might have used the lens 3 or 4 times, has $110 high end UV guaranteed no scratch filter.   I checked all the places that are selling this lens used, sometimes without the filters, and priced mine $50 less at $450.  For 'mates rates' I was willing to sell them as a package for $400

Yesterday, someone insultingly offered me $300, maybe $400 if I included a $170 scratch proof high end CPL filter and the $110 UV filter. 

Read post title for my opinion of that.

South Street Veterinarians are really great.

Last year, Trance went into total panic mode when we brought her into for physical and vaccinations.  So, to save her the panic, we scheduled to have the vets come out here for her.  They said "Well, we can do all the cats' exams at the same time."

They just left. Vaccinations given, exams given, Keito's blood drawn for testing.  Trance did panic a bit, but  no where near as much as she did at the Vets' office.  She settled down and just voiced her complaint.

Ziggy was her usual. Sat there there until done.  Healthy moggie.

Loki is a bit overweight, but that is because he keeps sneaking up behind the others and finishing what the left in their dishes, the oinker.

5 Weeks down.. about the same to go, I think

Had surgical wound checked by Dr A with Dr H in attendance. It's a bit redder than expected, and not quite as healed up as Dr A expected. Then I fessed up about someone grabbing me by the shoulder (yes, that one) then hugging me around it, and then Wing patting it dry twice (one would think after the first time I yelped, he wouldn't have done it again, right?)

It's a little less deep, but red, no sign of infection. Photo taken for comparison and to keep track of healing progress.  Again, not posting them as they might make those of a more delicate nature ill or faint.  Cleaned (much wincing and face making to not make noise) redressed with the gel, and with a stretchier waterproof bandage over it.  Go back in a week for re-examination.

Do you ever...

Do you ever want to hunt down whoever is answering your tech support question and smack em upside the head because they aren't actually reading what you put in the support request?

Summation: My Windows 7Pro 64bit desktop has the AverMedia H727 HDMI 3D card, and it has its own remote.  But the remote ONLY works with AverMedia Center. It doesn't work with Windows Media Center.

So, I bought the AverMedia A867R with remote that is advertised to work with Windows Media Center.  I follow the installation instructions, and all the remote will do is start WMC . I can't navigate through any of the menus, select anything.  I can only start it.  The remote works fine in AverMedia Player, but that software is a pain in the ass, counter intuitive and it doesn't play DVDs, whereas I can play DVDs via Windows Media Center.

I scour the internet, forums, FAQS to find any information as to why this isn't working. Tested Remote. Yup, works fine. Batteries; put new ones in. Uninstalled, rebooted, reinstalled, rebooted (repeat three times). No joy.

So, I send support request explaining everything above, almost word for word, and they are either hiring imbeciles, people with a vague grasp of English, or those who only know how to copy/paste... maybe all of the above. 

There be Whales!

Early this morning, Wing and I headed out for a #CanonCollective Event, Whale Watching on the Rottnest Express.

I ‘suited up’ with the padding the Doc gave me, got camera, lens, spare battery, wet weather coat just in case, and headed out.

Spotted Humpback Whales and the captain of the Rottnest Express, steered us slowly toward them, and we coasted to a stop.  Then I found out an interesting thing. I had zero problem with motion sickness on any boat, ever. However (and I'm sure you knew that was coming) it seems that staring through a view finder of a camera can and does cause acute nausea.  I made it to the lee of the boat, and 'fed the fishes'.  Crew mate brought me a bottle of water, and instead of drinking it, I rinsed off my lens which got hit by 'blow back'.

Brought inside, and one of the other crew mates told me that the nausea via viewfinder happens, and even to her when she uses binocular, but you won't know you're susceptible until it happens. 

Well, I wasn't going to let something as a bit of "Chunder Down Under" stop me.  So, after a drink of water, my stomach calmed down. I went back outside, took some photos. Nausea hit again, so I made it back to my table, grabbed the 'bag', hurked. Cleaned myself up again, got another drink of water, and went out again.  I repeated this a few times. :D  So, I am just a wee bit stubborn.

But I think it was worth it, yes?

 

Humpback Whale breaching, Perth in the background.

Breeching a bit closer

Tail Slapping.

Blow holes, and water sheeting off its back.

Flipper Flap!  almost like it was waving to us.

A Tail and Three Whales – one on the left did almost duck out before I got the photo.

Kept "Spy Hopping", but missed it peeking at us.

Well, good news and bad-ish news.

Wound has healed/filled in to depth of 6 to 8mm. Hole diameter still the same. It's been re bandaged, and I go back in a week.

Told Dr. A about up coming Whale watching, and how I needed to wear bra properly. Wound dressing has extra of a slightly stronger fabric bandage, waterproof layer and I have a pad to out under bra strap on the day to prevent chafing or rubbing.

I had $30 iTunes credit

So I decided to buy a movie, HD, of course.  Little did I know that I would be forced to play it in the iTunes video player. Oh well, fine, do what I have to do.

Then, I got this cute gem: if I wanted to play it full screen on my secondary monitor, it would blank out my primary monitor. Ooookay, so I tried playing it full screen on my primary monitor instead, only to find out that it would blank out the secondary monitor.  I checked every forum, every FAQ and this cute bullshit is a 'feature', to keep focus on my video playing. Really? Apple has never heard of 'multi-tasking'?

Can't play it in VLC or DiVX because you know... iTunes "Play Fair" DRMing (a misnomer if I ever read one). If I can play my iTunes music purchase in other players, why the hell should I be forced to use the cludgy crappy iTunes video player? I bought it, I should be able to play it with any program (VLC and Divx can handle non DRM mv4 files)

I looked around for solutions to this. Many of them are slow and cumbersome. Audials One will record the video while playing it in iTunes. BUT it keeps the programs on top of everything on Primary monitor, and you can't switch it to your secondary, it keeps reverting back to primary. So, I tried running it overnight, and of course it crashed.  :/  I checked other software brands, and just about all of them seemed to do the same thing. Record it while it played in iTunes, making your computer pretty much unusable until it was finished.

I managed to find one, TunesKit.  Unlike the others, it removes the DRM so you can play it in other players, rather than recording it live, and saves the result as an universal MP4 video.  I tried it, and it converted the first 5 minutes of the movie in about 5 seconds. I watched the result; crisp, clean, audio perfect.

I can now play the movie, FULL screen, on secondary monitor, without blanking out the primary.  And it's NOT for distribution, but for my personal use.

Not quite 2 full weeks

That would be this coming Friday.

That would be this coming Friday.

The hole over my scapula is healing nicely.  The surgical wound was at the beginning 4x2cms, 3cms deep.  It is now a hair over 2cm diameter end to end, and about 1cm deep.  I have been taking photos to track the healing progress.

The use of the Solugel in the open wound was so much less painful than using gauze mesh (which could and did stick to the sides of the wound, and hurt like hell when removed) and has allowed the area to heal from the bottom then up, rather like a zipper closing. 

Both the doctors and nurse said my use of a sling, although my arm wasn't sore, probably helped with the healing. To put this delicately.. the cyst developed under bra shoulder strap. Well, can't use said shoulder strap, so with the sling, my left breast didn't bounce and pull at the muscles and skin.  "Poor Woman's Bra"?    Regardless, the medicos said it helped.

It seems that Dr. A using the Solugel was a novel approach, but all the other doctors were impressed at how helpful it was to the healing. Keeping scarring down, and not leaving a depression as the body knits everything back in place, and it might become standard treatment method for things such as mine.  Hully gee... I'm a test case study! :D

Today could have started out a bit better

Last Friday, I had a ruptured epidermoid cyst bigger than a golf ball removed from my back, over the shoulderblade.  The follow up care/treatment was rather painful but necessary. My left arm has been rather useless as any movement hurts. I've had it in a sling to reduce the shock of impact when just walking. 

Yesterday, I went back for another follow up (the not so fun treatment was at an end) and the doctor said all is healing quite well, although it was still (in his words) "a mighty big hole".   It was filled with a biogel that allows the wound to heal from the deepest part up, like a zipper and put a clear waterproof dressing over it. (look out shower! Here I come! No more basin baths. YAY!)

This morning, after daintily stepping around me since Friday, Loki decided to fall back on his old method of getting human up.  And of all the square feet of my, he managed to jump right on/near the surgical site.

Hurt like #%#$!@$#&.  Arm back in sling. Checked wound, and it's ok, didn't breech the dressing or cause damage.

If you think that'll work, you don't know me at all

To all the ones thinking they're 'mansplaining' things to me, in a very overt browbeating manner; rethink your methods. Insults, condescension, derision and misogynistic comments to, as if I am such a 'delicate flar' (say it with a southern accent) not wise in the ways of the world, puts your 'mansplaining' in the "Charlie Brown adults speaking" category, and I just tune you right the hell out.

It finally arrived

The Orico USB 3 3.5” sata drive enclosure arrived today.  Unplugged the MediaSonic enclosure, dismantled it, and removed the hdd from it.  Put it in the Orico, sealed it up, plugged everything in.

Computer discovered it, loaded new drivers for the new enclosure.  Drive was momentarily visible in Explorer…. then it disappeared.

I saw it in Device Manager, in HDD Sentinel, and even crappy SeaGate Tools could see and test it, but it was missing from Disk Management and Windows Explorer.

So, I went down the check list:  removed it from device manager, and 'scan for changes'. Still not visible.  Swapped ports.. still no joy.

*sigh*  Rebooted, checked BIOS.. all good. Continued to login, and TADA!

Will be sending the MediaSonic (marketed as Hotway Rock HDL-SU3B 3.5in USB3.0 External Enclosure in Australia) to the programmer of HDD Sentinel. Maybe he can figure out how to get it to report HDD data (errors, write failures etc etc) before a catastrophic failure happens so others can use them.

Well, that was a fun weekend

 

Wing and I headed down to York, W.A. for a #CanonCollective Event, Astro-photography and some street photography. 

The weather didn’t play nice, and it was questionable whether or not we would have clear skies for shooting the Milkyway.  We ordered some food, and it took a long long time to arrive (kitchen was understaffed and overloaded at the same time. Bad combo) Some had already gone up to Mount Brown Lookout, but messaged back that it was cloudy and raining, so were returned to the hotel.

Our food arrived, we ate, and a group of use decided what the heck, go on up and give it a whirl.  We were elated to see we had clear skies. It only lasted less than an hour but it was enough!

Next morning, it started off bright and sunny… then devolved into rain.  We didn’t give up and managed to get some great indoor shots of local historical areas.

 

 

That does not compute

I tried to login to Wacom site, as I have had an account there since my Bamboo tablet.

I kept getting invalid login. I tried different passwords, and still kept getting invalid passwords.   So, I clicked on the "Forgot Password" link and waited.

Nothing. Waited some more. Still nothing.

So, I sent them an email asking if accounts "expire" after a while.

I get reply that they moved their eStore to a different database and lost all the costumer details.

The part that doesn't compute?  I'm still getting emails from them about sales at the eStore and specials at Wacom.

Now that is customer service

My "Lady Jayne" hairbrush handle cracked.  I have a hair tie holding together right now. I have been looking for another one but it seems that the brush designs have changed.  

I called Lady Jayne company, and was put through to a very nice woman, Christine.  I explained the situation, about how I have really long hair, and finding the right brush is rather important. I described the brush and she suggested I take photos and send them to her in an email with my phone number included.  She gave me email address, and I have now done so.

She will be checking it, and let me know which new design has replaced mine. :)

The Babylon 5 Universe Shrinks Again

 

Jerry Doyle, Babylon 5 character "Garibaldi" dies at age 60.

Mediasonic only SELLS worldwide

But they won't support their products if you were unfortunate enough to buy them.

During the 'Hard drive Disasters' of a few months ago, Seagate sent me back a replacement hard drive without the enclosure (that's another story of crappy support, but I digress), so I ordered one from PC Case Gear. A Mediasonic ProBox HDL-SU3 3.5' SATA Hard Drive Enclosure, marketed as a "Hotway ROCK HDL-Series".

It was delivered forthwith, and there didn't seem to be an issue....at first. Then I noticed that Hard Drive Sentinel was 'blank' in regards to identifying the drive/case. Windows ID'ed the drive (make, volume, storage)Being tech savvy, I went through the check list of troubleshooting (this is my polite way of saying "Don't try to give me advice, I know what I'm doing) and still nothing.

After a week, I contacted HDS. Turns out that the issue is with the MediaSonic case chipset. It's not sending the data needed.

From HDS:

Originally, when USB 3.0 enclosures released, we contacted them to make sure that the new products should contain the required functions. But the problem is that for some manufacturers, their customers are not really important and ignored this.

Personally I'd be more than happy if I can change, modify the software in any ways: if there would be a problem/bug in Hard Disk Sentinel, I would surely fix it and add support for this enclosure. But as the limitation is related to the enclosure itself (its chipset), I can't really improve.

Since the problem was the chipset, I contacted MediaSonic.. this is their reply (keep in mind, they sell worldwide)

Hi, We only provide support to our customers who purchase our products from our distributors in North American.

If you meet the above criteria , please provide photos showing front and back of the enclosure and a copy of receipt.

Regard, Vincent Mediasonic Support

Vincent's reply is disingenuous as my email address clearly shows I am NOT in the North America, and I informed them I purchased the item at PC Case Gear, an Australian company. They don't/won't provide a firmware update unless you bought it from North America distributor.

So, my local to me friends, and those also NOT in North America, steer clear of MediaSonic aka Hotway Rock HDL Series. Because if there's a problem, you're screwed. (They could have at least offered a kiss first, yes?)

PulseBeta Firmware update v14

Test results:

It still works wonderfully, with a few issues. As this is a BetaTesting phace, issues and bugs are expected.

Cameras used - Canon 5D3, Canon 7D2

HDR exposures - Perfect

Long Exposure - Perfect

Time Lapse - Function perfect, but with a bug

Single Exposure - Function perfect, but with same bug.

If I have preview/thumbnail view enabled, the App and Pulse disconnect.

Bug reported.

Being polite when making a complaint has rewards

Just got off phone with store manager/owner, who fell all over himself apologizing for the stuff up yesterday

Because of the goof, we are getting an upgrade on which mattress.

Well, that was a wasted day

Wing and I went to Snooze to get a new mattress for Alan, as he has springs coming out of it. We ordered it and were told it would be delivered on Thursday, today.

So, I waited around today, blowing off a photoshoot in Fremantle.  I told a friend that I couldn't be moral support at tattoo parlor, as I had a delivery due to come today.  (Luckily, sort of, her tattooist couldn't make it so it's been rescheduled)

I waited. Now, Thursdays are late trading but when it got close to 5pm and still no show, I called Snooze.  Couriers have gone home, owner went home, mattress not here, mattress might be in the warehouse... :/ 

I get to play the waiting game again tomorrow.  Oh joy. :p

Ephemeral Street Art

Here today, gone tomorrow. But luckily, I photographed them before they were destroyed/covered up.

"Heartless Winker" - New take on the Tin-Man.

Wacom tablet drivers and Windows

You would think after all these years, either company would have fixed the damned problem of Wacom drivers not loading on boot up, and a quick easy way to load the drivers when you get the dreaded "TABLET DRIVER NOT FOUND"  (yes, I have already done the Services/Local Services/Stopped and restarted Wacom drivers trick. It doesn't always work)

More "Ephemeral Street Art"

It goes up and is quickly removed/covered up by painting crews. 

"Naked Arrogance - When the emperor first realizes that he has no clothes.

That's one

Today, renewal of Ziggy's pet insurance policy arrived.  Soon now, Keito, Loki and Trance's will arrive.   It's worth it.

This was funny

I periodically check bookmarks/links to see if they are still 'live'.  One of the sites I visited had MalWareBytes web protection block it. I have it, on occasion, wrongly block a site, so I 'whitelisted' the site, and reloaded it.

What I got was a rather official looking Microsoft page with an audible and text warning about my computer being infected, and to PLEASE call this toll free number to speak to someone on how to step by step, remove the infection.

I didn't fall off the turnip truck yesterday, but I can see how someone not computer savvy could be duped by it.

Removed the site from MWB's whitelist, and from my bookmarks list.

Won't be doing that again

I decided to try out Trillian IM on web browser.  Facebook threw a shit-fit, and not only logged me out, but forced me to change my password AGAIN (just did it last month because I dared to login on my friggin' laptop instead of desktop) even though I did verify it was me using web-based Trillian.

I understand security, but when I answer my own friggin' security questions correctly, why the hell do I still have to change a my password?

Uh, no thanks

After the crap we went through with the last clique-y camera club, including the president of it showing up at my door, uninvited, to threaten and intimidate me, the last thing Wing or I want is to be part of another one.

So, imagine my surprise when I got an email from a different member of the club, telling me he started his own and would we be interested in joining it, as we had so much to offer yada yada yada.

One of the biggest part of the surprise is how the fuck did this person get my email address, as we were supposedly struck from the membership (I so hope they did a bell, book and candle). I showed Wing the email, and he told me not even to bother to respond.

So, pressed the DEL key and sent it into the bitstream. 

Well, that was pointless

My S7 has a glitch, a known one, without one apparent cause or cure. It also affects S7 Edge. The phone will turn the lock screen on all by itself. After a few seconds it will shut off.  And this glitch is rather draining on the battery life.

I have read on forum after forum about this for days. I applied every fix and suggestion, short of factory reset, as those who said they tried that final option discovered it didn't fix the problem. There doesn't seem to be any publicly known reason or fix. 

So after days of searching, silly me headed to Samsung online chat support.  Spent two hours being told do do everything I had already done.  Then I got hit with the "back up and factory reset".  To me, that's like killing a gnat with a nuke.  Also, you see, the latest Samsung back up software, (not so) SmartSwitch sucks big time. All it does is back up your contacts, messages, email and photos. Everything else.. nope.  Samsung KIES at least did a full device back up.   So, I said no.

Moving on: It seems that both Samsung KIES and SmartSwitch have an issue with one of my external harddrives. It's a Samsung S2 1tb drive. But both of the above programs identify it as a phone.  Also, I can't have that HD plugged in the same time I have my S7 because there seems to be some sort of weird Device ID conflict, and neither will work.

Techs' great solution?  "Do you really need to have the drive plugged in the same time you need to transfer something to your phone?"   I took several deep breaths, and politely answered. How about they fix the problem with their device ID/Drivers?

Beginning to border on harassment.

Earlier this year, I bought a CD (used) on Amazon, as it was listed in "VERY GOOD" condition. 

1: It was flagged by AQIS, opened, inspected, foreign substance on outside of the CD case tested.

2:  The CD playing surface was covered in dings and scratches.

3:  Piss poorly packed, so the CD case was cracked.

So, for buyer feedback, I gave seller 3 star rating, and only said that the CD wasn't in 'very good' condition, maybe fair and that returning it for a refund would have cost more than the purchase/shipping price. But seller did post it quickly.

First, the seller sends me a rant, claiming I was suffering from 'buyers remorse'.  Well, no. I then told her about items #1 and #3, and that I could have reported her for sending dangerous goods.  And yes, I sent her photos of the parcel with the yellow and black AQIS tape on it, and the notice inside the parcel from AQIS.

So far, she has sent me two, count them, two, messages asking me to remove my 'negative rating'.  I gave her a fair rating.

She keeps this up, I might go and change it to a ONE star rating because of her nagging me! I am NOT going to change it. I am not going to lie. The CD is was poor condition. I was able to archive the songs to my HD but I had to run them through some high end audio edition to remove clicks and hisses. 

EUREKA! (not the TV series, although it was quite good)

Ever since I got the new motherboard and CPU installed, got the computer back up and running, I have been hammering away at little things.

Soundblaster Wireless headset not working - Alan and I kept working on it, no joy. So I bought a new wired headset, but before tossing the SB one into the computer recycle bin, I decided to test it on Wing 's computer. It worked. Brought it back to my desktop. Uninstalled everything again. Rebooted again. Reinstalled everything again. Pressed the sync buttons and in less than 5 seconds it connected.

Bluetooth - for some odd reason, Windows 7 lost, for want of better word, the system tray and Control Panel icon for Bluetooth. I could install some antiquated software that would allow me to upload via Bluetooth, but I couldn't SEND anything.  I got into a Microsoft Assure chat, and after checking everything, he said I had done everything to troubleshoot, and suggested I contact motherboard manufacturer.  Well, I did, I sent an email, but I have never been one to sit on my hands. 

I looked around, and found a 'generic bluetooth driver'.  I plugged in the Bluetooth Dongle, let device manager run. Then updated the driver by selecting "Microsoft Generic Bluetooth Driver" from the list.  Well, I still don't have an icon in my Control Panel, but I do have it on my system tray. Also, I can send and receive now via bluetooth.

Mislabled Monitors - Windows Color Management has my monitors mislabeled (#1 is the primary, #2 is Secondary, but WCM has them backward.) but Windows "Screen Resolution" has them properly labeled.  I had a list of things to try, but none of them worked. Can't swap cables, as one is HDMI and the other is DVI.  I did all that was listed on each and every MS help and official sites. No joy there, as most of them kept pointing me back to the same useless pages.

So, I kept working on it.  I checked Nvidia control panel. All good.  Display Fusion Control panel. Also all good. Actual Windows Manager, multiple monitor settings... WTF?  I never selected that setting. Let's see what happens when I deselect it. Colors go wonky, icons shifted to other monitor, but now the monitors are properly labeled!  Moved icons over, saved their position, reloaded color management profile for the monitor and now Primary is #1 and Secondary is #2.

Nerdz Rool!

After a bit of chitchat with a Microsoft tech

And reading a bit more, I figured I would play around some more to get the old bluetooth dongle to work.  I followed on help site, but Windows kept trying to install many "Bluetooth Peripheral Devices".. over and over.

So, instead of trying to find hardware specific driver, I found a 'generic' Bluetooth driver. I shrugged and figured what the hell.

I unplugged the bluetooth device,  uninstalled the WIDCOM and Broadcom drivers. Rebooted.  Plugged the device back in. Picked Generic Bluetooth Adapter, and voila, both it and the Microsoft Bluetooth Enumerator loaded without a hitch. Paired my phone with it, and was able to send and receive.

Nerdz Rool!

NRA and Gun nut logic:

If you make laws regarding guns, only law abiding gun owners would adhere to them. Criminal won't.

You can use this (non)logic in regards to any and all laws. Drunk driving is illegal, the majority of people follow the law. A few don't. Does that mean you strike the law from the books? No

Robbing banks is illegal. The majority of people don't rob banks. A few do. So, does that mean we removed the laws?  No

Ban assault weapons, their manufacture, sale, and import. Require background checks, and close gunshow/online loopholes. If it takes you a few weeks to get your precious gun, fine as that required background checks will prevent someone with a history of mental illness or criminal background from purchasing one through legal channels. 

Will a few that can't buy them legally have to spend a horrendous amount of money to smuggle them in? Probably, but that doesn't mean you don't ban them! Same applies to high capacity magazines.

The idea of not passing sensible gun reform laws just because a few won't obey is as ridiculous as making child pornography legal because a few won't obey the laws against it.

The ephemeral nature of street art

 

I spotted this bit of artwork on the face of a single brick in a local carpark/parking structure, and I am glad I took photo of it as the wall it was decorating was hit by a car, and all the bricks were taken out and replaced.  I have no idea who the artist is/was, but I am glad the work has been preserved this way.

 

As I know that during Beta Testing, little things matter

I have been testing the beta version of the Pulse camera remote. And with the exception of a few things, I haven't found anything not to like.

Started off rocky, as mine arrived a bit earlier than expected, and the web page for it with instructions and links to the phone app wasn't set up. A few traded messages and that was rectified.

The device:  Small, compact, easily set up on the camera (I'm currently testing on a Canon 5D3).  My one issue is the cord is a bit short and tight. Yes, it's wound like a spring, and if I pull it a few times, it does stretch, but before I did that the rubber port covers on the camera and the tension of the cord was pulling the plug from the remote socket.  As I typed, some stretching of the cord helps.

The App: Once you get the Pulse on your camera, power up the camera then the pulse.  Paired up with phone via bluetooth without incident.  App found my camera set up without issue.  My one complaint about the app, is that the "Back" button on the phone, instead of going to previous screen, it exits the application.  So, if you are in settings, press back after you've adjusted something, it exits the program, rather than return to the previous screen.

As I typed, in beta testing, little things matter.

Side effect of desktop being offline

Every security program is really bitching about scans/checks/virus definitions being outdated and long overdue. 

So, between updating those programs, and uninstalling/reinstalling drivers, I have been kept busy (thereby out of trouble.. mostly.)

After a good night's sleep

And some more reading, I was able to get the Replacement Replacement Seagate External drive to be visible and accessible.

The biggest problem with all versions of Windows from 95 on up to 10, is the error codes or lack thereof can have multiple causes, or none. 

The fun part is trying to figure out which is it and rectifying it.

Oh, my desktop computer,

How I have missed you! Let's try not to have another meltdown, ok? 

Had a bit of a panic when I got  NTLDR is missing when I first booted up.  Then I remembered, just go into the BIOS and change the boot order.  Yay! No more NTLDR... but then I got UEIF error in regards to the OS.  Ok, reboot, back into the BIOS, go into the advanced settings, change the Security to OTHER OS.  That problem solved.

Booted into Windows.  Well, once again, one program says my left monitor is #1 Primary, but another says the OTHER one is.  I can live with that. 

Connected the two powered USB hubs. A USB3 and a USB2.  Then I added one device at a time. Once the drivers were installed for it, connect another.  Rinse, and repeat as necessary.  The only thing I can't get connected is the replacement replacement Seagate drive. The USB3 Sata Bridge on it just won't play nice. Fine. Alan can have it.

After two months down there was gbs worth of updates.  Yikes. 

Alan knows what I'm like when I start working on computers. I don't eat. I drink coffee, and water and just keep working until things are done.  He all but sat me down with a lunch in front of me. 

The stupidity of hardware/software/encoders

What's the point of having a kick ass computer, faster than anything you've had, only to have people to make BIOS and hardware controllers throttle things?

I kept wondering why my USB 3 drives kept dropping off or not being seen on the powered 7 port USB 3 hub. Turns out that the chipsets are deliberately throttled to only being able to handle 3 high speed devices.   But, I can have up to 14 USB 2 devices connected (that would be one USB 2 hub, and then using up to 13 external devices. Might sound like a lot, but my keyboard takes two ports, mouse takes one, 4 ext HDDs, USB Audio adapter for better volume from the speakers, graphics tablet, external region free Blu Ray drive, Soundblaster headset, HD webcam, and on the laptop, using a DVI to USB monitor adapter... see, it adds up)

This is beyond annoying.  All the ports I have on my desktop (will have again, once the replacement gets back) 3 USB 3 ports on the back, one on the front, several USB2 ports.... 

So, I will have to juggle which device will go into which hub when my desktop gets put back together.

Seagate, your ineptitude never ceases to amaze me

Synopsis: I had a under warranty external HD fail. Seagate sent me a replacement. Unfortunately, less than a year later, that one failed too, suddenly. PAYAM data recovery service was able to retrieve the data (turns out the heads failed, but the platters were undamaged).  Turns out they had sent me a refurb, not a new one. Of course, it was stated in itty bitty light grey text on white background. Funny how that was overlooked (sarcasm off now)

So, I send them the faulty external drive. And what did they send me?  Another refurb, but NOT in a case.  *headdesk*  Really?  What kind of braindeaders WORK there!?

So, called PC Case Gear, and after talking to Vincent, I ordered a USB3 external bay for the drive.

Hail and farewell

After the Melville council arborist checked the gum tree, it's been decided that it has to go.  The whole thing.  Damned shame, as that tree was a home, haven, nesting site, photography stage and food supply for hundreds of birds.  The council will replant a native nectar bearing trees/shrubs, but it will take years for them to become established.

To keep the nectarivores fed though, I will be getting two larger capacity humming bird feeders and those will be put in the back yard to prevent squabbling and territorial fighting... well, cut back on it at least.

We still have the Jacaranda, the bottlebrush hedges, and a few other lower shrubs and trees. 

Kind of expected squabbles

Yesterday and the day before, we were hit by a severe storm front. Our gorgeous Gum Tree was badly damaged.  This tree is (or should I say was) the stage for many of my large bird photographs (Cockatoos, Kookaburras, Galahs)

This makes me want to cry:

I am hoping that we will be able to have the outer sections removed, leaving the center spire to 're-bush'.  (gum trees are notorious for how difficult they are to 'kill off'). 

Squabbles:  the tree above was a major, and I mean major, food source and nesting area for local honey eaters and other birds.  Our bottlebrush trees, which were trimmed way back last year because of solar panel installation, were another.  I 'fixed' the bottlebrush tree problem by getting 5 hummingbird feeders and finding a proper nectar recipe, supplementing it with 'molting vitamins' every once in a while, and spreading them out in the bottlebrushes.  Now that the gum tree was badly damaged by the storm, the competition for that food source has resulted in squabbles, with the oldest, biggest Red Wattlebird being the bully of the block.

There is a good chance that I will have to spread them out a bit further, in different trees, and will be refilling them more often.

Dear Seagate Tech support

Is it a prerequisite of the job there to have had a lobotomy? I sent you an email with a photo of the receipt from AusPost, showing tracking information, and CLEARLY showing the date. I even told you that my email was to inform you the parcel with faulty drive had been mailed on that date.

Your brain dead response showed me no one bothered to look at the email or the jpg fully, as the reply from you is "We haven't received the drive yet." Well no shit, Sherlock. But I didn't say that to you.

I replied,"No kidding you didn't get it yet. Did anyone bother to check the JPG I attached to the email? It clearly shows it was posted YESTERDAY. "

I get a brainless reply: the item hasn't arrived and according to the tracking number it's in transit.

*headdesk*

I replied: Oy vey.. since someone there is thick witted, let me see if using smaller words will help.

I KNOW it did not arrive. I know it's in transit. I sent you photo of AusPost shipping as a COURTESY to show you it HAD been shipped to you.

Now, I know that courtesy might be something alien, but try not to send me another copy/paste or FAQ response.

One More Time:

1: I know it hasn't arrived at Seagate.

2: I know it's in transit.

3: I sent email with photo of AusPost as a COURTESY.

Someone hand me a clue by four in case then send me yet another dipshit response.

Home.. and I am tired.

In the process of shifting close to 500 photos taken over the past few days to HD storage.

Have wiped down the camera, and will be doing same to the lenses, as there was rain, and salt spray from the ocean/waves/breakers.

Also found out the hard way that my hiking boots are about 1cm too small. No wonder toes felt like they were breaking.

#canoncollective #canonaustralia

WTF is it with my external drives???

Out of the blue, one of my WD external drives started kicking back "Local Drive", disk management said it was RAW data, and the data was inaccessible.   After a few days of looking/researching/reading I was about to give up.  Many places just said format the drive and hope for the best.

Uhh, no, I don't want to lose the data.

More research, and I found a program that fixed the RAW data problem, and now in the process of copying the data to what I know is a fully functioning drive. It's on an older USB 2 drive so it will take a while to get 1.8tb shifted, but at least I can get it done.

Seagate, you are really sneaky

Just filled out the RMA request for the faulty Seagate external drive that was a replacement for a faulty Seagate drive. A quick reminder, heads failed on Seagate #1, but I was able to get all data transferred before total failure because I noticed problems.  Seagate #2 was the replacement, which had the SAME effin' problem, and I think I know why.

My original Seagate, #1, the serial number was Z1F2RE8N. 

The replacement had the serial number NA4JZ12L on the drive case.

I just looked at the faulty drive that PAYAM sent back to me... the serial number on the drive itself is Z1F2RE8N.

What did they do? Put it in a new case after a minor fix and sent the original one back to me in a different case?  My bet is yes.

Fixed that now, too.

Not quite two years ago, after Microsoft bought Skype, they put the kybosh on Trillian (and other 3rd party) multi instant messaging programs access to Skype.

I'm not saying that Trillian dropped the ball, but they did, as Miranda and other multi messaging programs have fixed this issue, but Trillian didn't.

Luckily, someone figured a work around for this.  Install OLDER version of Trillian, get accounts set up. Shut it down. Locate SkypeKit41_noid.exe and download it. Copy it into Trillian directory. Rename it Skypekit.exe (just delete the original one, as it no longer will work anyhow). 

Install newest version of Trillian, and once again, Skype is functional.  Not sure how long this will last but I have been.. well was using it, on my desktop for over a year, and currently using it on my laptop.

Maybe I shouldn't have done it.. ow

I saw the crystal clear skies, looked at my EQ5 mounted telescope. I put my shoulder under it and test lifted it. Too heavy

So, I looked at the old lightweight EQ3 mount.  I had to do a bit of rigging (the bolts  to hold the plate to the mount and the knob for the inclination seem to be the only things missing from all the parts I put away). I used cable ties, and it worked. 

So, brought telescope outside. Wasn't too heavy, but I would have been better off with an Alt/AZM because after all the disuse, the finderscope was off and I just could not get Jupiter into view.  I tried, and tried, and tried.

All I got out of it was a sore lower back, lots of ant bites on my feet (little bastards crawl into your shoes) and a lot of disappointment.   :(

Dear 'Adults'

Could you please stop your children/grandchildren/children under you care from chasing the birds in the park. 

Not just because your child ruined my photos by running at them, but also how dangerous it can be.

Had your child done that to the two adult magpies, not corellas,  there is a good chance the magpies would have gone after her. And of *course* you would blame the magpies, right?

Leftover legacy of Windows 10 upgrade failure

One of the pre-installed Sony utilities on my computer, a Sony VAIO, isn't working quite right.  I have asked Sony Support about it and after nothing in the way of support, their brilliant idea is for me to take a perfectly functioning, except for Sony VAIO CARE, computer, reformat it and start over from scratch.   They didn't even bother to answer me when I asked "Will uninstalling VAIO Care and reinstalling it fix this problem?" 

No, they didn't answer that, and just said format the drive.

Not only no, but hell no.

I know that SONY unloaded their PC/Laptop division, and that explains their lackluster support of items they sold prior to selling off to JIP.

There might have been a 'press release'

But I, a registered Sony Vaio owner, never got an email or memo about it.

Seems that Sony has unloaded their PC/Laptop division and will be concentrating on Smartphones and other smaller devices.  No wonder they haven't been very helpful in regards to assisting with problems with my Vaio.

I guess what that means is I just use this laptop until I run it into the ground.

Monday.. just another day of the week that ends in Y

So, another word that ends in the letter Y is early and laundry.

Woke up early, saw what was the start of a great sunrise. But it fizzled to 'meh'. Decided to record the bird song instead. The melodious sounds are the reason we really don't need an alarm clock.

Laundry. Wing had a full suitcase of 'living out of suitcase' dirty clothes. Shall we say they were umm fragrant. Last load in the washer, now.

Updating my desktop wallpaper slide show. I am replacing some of the lunar photos I took with the 550D with ones taken more recently. Amazing what I thought was a cracking good shot 6 years ago, to now. Both skill and better photo gear played a part in the images. Still keeping the sunrise photo, and the ones I got from NASA.

Ziggy is training me well

Two paws on my shoulder, and a YOWL means "I need to use outdoor sandbox!" 

Head snog/head boop on my shoulder means "Treats, please?" 

Head snog/head boop on arm and should, combined with meow means "Hungry!"

Meow from the cushion on the sofa means "Cuddle/petting time, please." 

With Adobe not giving us stubborn CS6 users an update for Adobe Camera Raw.

It's a good thing that other photo editing makers are picking up their slack.  Yeah, I know, I could cave in and rent Photoshop, but I didn't rent it before it because Creative Cloud, not starting now.

Anyhooo... On1, which I have used since they were OnOne, makes great photo editing software that can be used as a standalone, or as CS6 plugin.   They announced that they will be making a Camera Raw editor that has all the functionality, lens library, etc etc.   It's going to come out later this year, and I have signed up for pre-order when it's first made available.

Some people need to keep their opinions to themselves

And not have a hissy-fit, or resort to snide insults and insinuations. It's not news that we had to cut back out bottlebrush trees because of having solar panels installed (even though they don't cast shade on the roof). Because of this, a major food source for the local nectavores was removed during flowering season. We also had birds nesting nearby, brooding young birds.

 

I contacted the Melville Council about it, and D gave me the number to the Rangers, who then gave me a phone number to an Veterinary Ornithologist. After telling her the above, I got suggestions and some good advise, which I followed. I got some hummingbird feeders, got a recipe to make 'nectar', and some liquid vitamins to add to it. Once the birds figured out what these strange stiff red flowers were for, the 'locals' visited the truncated bottlebrush trees during their daily rounds.

In a bird group on Facebook, someone had a conniption fit about feeding wild birds, accusing me (and others) of only setting up feeders to create photo ops. And when I related the above about the bottlebrush trees, one woman demanded to have 'a published peer reviewed paper from this anonymous scientist of yours'. Then she implied, without flat out saying the word, I was a liar, and demanded the names.

I told her No, she could call the Melville council, and get her own referral.

I am not taming these birds. I have checked the number of photos of birds on the feeders vs birds flying, in trees, on the ground, noshing on native flora. Do I have them on feeders too? Sure do, not denying it, but more to show they are using them, not for the photo op.

And it's a good thing I have the feeders up. An adult red wattlebird came out second best in a tussle with either a raven, or kookaburra. It was badly injured, and I wasn't even sure it would survive the night. I made sure there was a feeder near it, and fresh water.  Not only did it survive, it had a safe place to recover. But I guess according to the woman above, I should have let it get weak, fall to the ground, and get savaged to death by a dog, cat or rat. Uhh, no.

The day it was injured:

2 Months later in the 'hospital tree' with feeder and water nearby.

 

I would deem this fully recovered.

And one more thing before I finish this up: I have some neighbors that cut down two perfectly healthy large nectar bearing trees. A bottlebrush tree, and a grevillea, again reducing the native flora/food supply. And this was AFTER a developer took down about a dozen tall pine trees just a few weeks prior. So, the feeders have had more visitors than usual.

So, when I see the remaining nectar bearing trees in flower, I will keep the humming bird feeders out there to make up for what I and the neighbors have removed.

Minor annoyances of Windows 8.1

And no, not upgrading to Windows 10 on this laptop, as Microsoft and AMD stopped  Point Five of a version of supporting my graphics card.  I tried Win10 and it took over 5 hours to fix it.. well, roll it back to Windows 8.1.

Ok, annoyances in no particular order:

1: No matter if it's listed in the start up, certain programs/utilities need to be started by me.

2: Windows 8 isn't 'remembering' Wacom tablet settings. I keep selecting "Keep to Monitor One" but after I'm done using whatever program I was using it with is closed, the tablet spans both monitor again.

3: No matter what tips/tricks/hacks, I can't get Windows 8 native wall paper slide show options to work right. Had to get 3rd party program to do it.

4: The "Show Desktop" button on the right side of the task bar is so small, that when I try to 'Show desktop" those annoying charms show up instead. No hack/trick/tweak would change this, so yet again, another 3rd party utility.

*sigh*

FInally got to it

 

Tested the OMD EM1, Kipon EF to MFT adapter, and the Sigma 150-500 f/5 combination.  Last time I tried, it didn't focus, and sometimes the camera had the "no lens" symbol on the menu screen.

The latest firmware update has since fixed that. Singing Honey Eater,

 

 

Just have to remember to switch the IS/OS off on the lens, as it will 'jiggle' the image if it's on, as the EM1 has in body stabilization.

Fitness level not great, but better

Went for my daily walk today, managed to go over 2k. I know this isn't much in the grand scheme of things, but let me 'splain.

The first time I started walking around the park, I had to stop and sit on a low wall twice on the outbound trip, and twice on the way back due to back pain. Maybe 30 minutes, if that, the first go.  Over the past few months, I have had to stop less and less, and walking further. Today,an hour in the park, and another 40 minutes just puttering around.

So, I will stay at the hour, but see about going further. I don't want to walk too fast, because if I do, I will start limping, and that would cause other problems.

Well, that bites

I went to redeem my Downloadable HD copy of The Martian, and it turns out there are catches to it. GooglePlay - Can only download it to watch later on a Chromebook. 

All others have hardware ID specific play only.

And then they wonder why people go out to find a digital copy to download elsewhere.

Updated Kipon EF to MFT adapter firmware

And I do wish I had checked on this sooner. The newer Canon L glass now works with it.  Still no joy using any of the teleconverters, not at night for lunar or planetary photography. It doesn't quite focus when using teleconverters at night. Will try again in the morning to see if brighter lighting conditions allow the use of them.

But here's the results:

OMD EM1 with Kipon EF to MFT adapter. Lens mounted, Canon 100-400mk II L IS

 

OMD EM1 Kipon EF to MFT Adapter, Lens mounted Canon 70-300 L IS

It's alive! IT'S ALIVE!!

Ok, more like resurrected. The Seagate drive diagnostic at Payam Data Recovery showed that the drive heads had failed. I was asked if I wanted to attempt a data recovery, and I said yes. I paid the non refundable deposit and the drive was sent to PAYAM clean room facilities, where it would be taken apart, tested to see if the data could be recovered. I chose the least expensive 'slow boat' method, no rush, no dire need for the data. It was taken apart, checked, drive head failure confirmed.

The good news is, the platters weren't damaged, and all data was recovered, and transferred to a new drive. There might be a few glitchy files, but I called, spoke to Lachlan, confirmed the faulty drive, clearly labeled for warranty purposes, and the new drive with the recovered data was ready. Paid what was owed, and it will be sent to me.

I did discuss with Lachlan about how I have had 3 Seagates croak in 5 years, and he said that was just bad luck. Regardless, I think I will stick with Western Digitals for a while.

Care to change that statement?

I posted a request to DxO optics about my panasonic FZ30 is supported, but the FZ50 isn't.

The reply I got was "Neither model is supported".

Oh really?  So I asked them to explain this:

Not only did DxO identify the make and model of the camera, it proceeded to download the correct module.

I really loathe no nothing tech support.  They give good IT support a bad name