A while back, we purchased an all-in-one remote to simplify the use of our TV/VCR/DVD/PVR/Sound system. I thought it was great. Yesterday, I was greeted by this paper on our stove with instructions for our babysitter.

So it turns out instead of reducing the complexity of our system, I now have a vessel of concentrated complexity in the form of a remote. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to simplify such a system for the non-geek?

…you’ve used a flexy straw as a ciphon to drain your ramen noodles.

Having two young daughters, I’m destined to be surrounded by princess paraphernalia for at least the next few years. One of their favorite noisy toys is a little piano that plays a few songs from Disney’s princess movies. The one they like best is “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast. I’m inclined to get songs stuck in my head quite easily but fortunately I’m more familiar with “See my vest” from the Simpsons and that’s the song that gets stuck in my head when they’re playing with that piano.

This is just a reminder for all of you out there that at midnight on February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting.

From the site:
“Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.”

We received our coupons a couple of months ago, but I finally got around to using them today. I was able to order a couple of converter boxes from digitalstar.com for a total cost (including shipping) of less than $25 (our tax dollars at work.)

Coupons are limited, so request yours today!
“There are 22.25 million coupons available to all U.S. households. Once those coupons have been used, there are an additional 11.25 million coupons available only to households that solely receive their TV broadcasts over-the-air using an antenna. Households with TVs connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service are not eligible for this second batch of coupons. Consumers can apply for coupons until March 31, 2009, or until the funds are exhausted.”

“Profitability is a necessary condition for existence and a means to more important ends, but it is not the end in itself for many of the visionary companies. Profit is like oxygen, food, water, and blood for the body; they are not the point of life, but without them, there is no life.”
–Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies