The Delio

I can now say more about the previous post.

Here are my results for the General Exam:
Operating Systems: PASS
Computer Architecture: PASS
Algorithms: FAIL
Theory of Computing: FAIL
Programming Languages: PASS

My minimum criteria for success was to pass 3 out of the 5 tests. However, there are some issues regarding one of the failed test that I can not accept. I am giving this until after Thanksgiving before I start raising cane. I want to give the department time to do the right thing. After that, I will request a meeting with the Department Head. I have started to look at my options for what to do if I need to go further.

You pick your battles...

... and I am putting on my stretchy pants.

(if you don't get that reference, see here)

I can't post anything about what is going on on a public web page, but things could be better in Baton Rouge. To sum up everything with giving no information whatsoever, my career plans are in question. But don't worry, I don't plan on going down without a fight.

Shuffle It.

When my world is spiraling down around me and I can't seem to see any light from my chair in Coates Hall, I pick up my iPod for something... anything.

I expect the most heartfelt blues ever played. B.B. when he didn't have a dime. Clapton when the only thing that brought him happiness was a needle. Something that matched me.

Instead, my Shuffle gives me The Ghetto Boys "Damn It Feels Good To Be a Gangsta"...

and I quote:
" But real gangsta-ass niggas don't flex nuts
Cuz real gangsta-ass niggas know they got em
And everythings cool in the mind of a gangsta
Cuz gangsta-ass niggas think deep
Up three-sixty-five a year 24/7
Cuz real gangsta ass niggas don't sleep"

I laughed and moved on. $80 well spent.

Trying out my new stuff

I'm still warming up to the iPod shuffle. My three complaints are:

1) The interface buttons have been changed. I think they were looking for a design that would have more "feedback". In the previous design, it was kinda hard to tell if the button had been pressed. Now it feels kinda "clunky".
2) The engraving is ridiculously small and look like it's been painted on. When people start paying for the "engravings", they will be disappointed. I can't complain, though. I didn't pay for it.
3) Sill no exercise variation of the ear bud. The standard iPod headphones are not ideal for running. They don't stay in when sweaty and when they are covered in sweat, hold water to the point of not being able to hear the music.

Those are all somewhat small complaints. The big question mark of durability and how well it holds a charge after repeated recharging can only be tested as the miles pile up on it. I'm very pleased overall though.

1) The clip design is every bit as functional as I thought it would be. A great design decision.
2) The brushed metal exterior looks nice.
3) The extra storage space for cheaper than the original is nice.
4) The battery life is surprisingly long.


I will definitely be recommending this to all runners out there. This is just a great buy for the $$$.

The other new toy is actually a video game. As always, I am 2 or 3 years behing the curve when it comes to video games. So I bought a game called Viewtiful Joe for $6. A game recommended by both Jordan and Ronald. The gameplay, the design, the music, EVERYTHING about this game is beautiful. I could really get addicted to this one. What's funny is that it is a throwback in gameplay to the days of Contra and Double Dragon. They just added better design, a 3D perspective, and some better functionality. One cool feature is that the game centers on the main character's ability to slow down time to accomplish certain feats. Anyway, it's hard to describe other than saying it's an absolutely beautiful game. If you are one of the few people who hasn't played it check it out.

Also, I got Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour for $8 to be a Natasha and I game. Jordan let us borrow this one 2 years ago and we had a lot of fun playing it. Hard to pass up for $8.

Test 5: Programming Languages

Well... That's it. I'm finished with the 2nd biggest hurdle to get my degree from here on out, I clear out my remaining course work and research really hard.

I'm back home and checking out the new iPod.

Test 4: Theory of Computing

Bum Bum Bum... Another One Bites the Dust!

I feel well about how that test went. I won't say that I passed it because the person who grades them has been known to be really harsh on "little mistakes".

Tomorrow is a test that I'm now getting worried about. Programming Languages is usually one of my stronger subjects, but that also means that I've neglected it a little bit in my studying. The more I look over my notes, the more worried I get. I'll let everyone know.

The iPod shuffle has been delivered. Natasha opened it for me and I could feel the coolness of the shiny metal skin through the phone.

Test 3: Algorithms

Wow. That test was hard. But just like yesterday, it was straightforward. I really think that's another exam taht will be in the pass category. From here on out, I feel confident about the remaining subjects.

Tomorrow is Theory of Computing. I'll do another report.

In the mean time, here's a picture of Grace in line art:

("unsquished" version here)

Who wants to guess how much I miss my wife and child here in Baton Rouge?

My iPod left China and landed in Alaska overnight. By this morning, it is being held in Memphis TN, so I may have it by Friday...