Worked on trying to get a couple of my windows machines go to sleep when not being used and have the file server automatically wake them up when doing backups or virus scans. Hopefully this will save considerable power. Figured out how to get automount to work for the samba shares (mainly just setting up /etc/auto.misc). My only problem now is that my rsnapshot backup utility lets me run a script before running the entire backup, but not before each host. Changed my preexec script this morning to not only wake up the machines, but to also cd into the directories so that rsnapshot would see them as existing. Hopefully this will work better tonight.
I'm also having problems with my Dell Dimension 9150 staying asleep. I guess I'll just have to keep fiddling with settings.
Also, made my way into the garage for a bit to try and set up the old software for P.E.A.R.T. from long ago. Let's just say we weren't exactly creating a commecial software product!! After I get the software working, I still need to get a drum set, and a bunch of mic stands.
Got to see Christian's old Geo Prism parked down the street with the people we sold it to a while back. Talked with the owner who said it is still running great and has been a "lifeline" for him.
Helped a neighbor clear a clogged septic line, and later, helped them install a new toilet flange and a toilet.
I'm not thrilled about the flange installation... it was a bit hokey, but we were running out of options and they were desperate to get their toilet working again. So, we got it on, and its working. I hope it stays that way for a while.
Helping your neighbor feels good. If we can't help those close to us, what are we here for?
With the economic stimulus checks due to arrive soon, I thought I would just share some of my thoughts on how people might use the money.
I know many people believe that this money is there money to begin with and can do anything they want with it. I just share these points because I believe they highlight areas where people can use the money and achieve some of the things that the money is meant to provide.
I call this Frankie's Pledge. It is basically just a pledge to spend your economic stimulus money in one or more of the following ways:
Education/Self-employment (investing in yourself)
This is never a bad investment, no matter whose money it is.
Paying down debt
As Americans, we have learned to live well beyond our means. As I heard one blues singer put it, we are "Victims of Comfort". Paying down debt helps everyone.
Energy efficiency upgrades (home, car, office)
We obviously can do more to help our economy (and our national security at the same time) by lessening our dependence on oil and non-renewable resources. Consider some of the many upgrades to your home to lower energy usage and utility bills.
Services or construction that utilizes local labor
Utilizing local labor and resources, instead of buying a piece of electronics or a toy made in China, is obviously a much better way to invest in America and your community. Also, new additions such as new insulated windows, or more insulation in your attic, is a great way to use local resources, and lower energy use at the same time.
American charities
Obviously another great use of the resources, especially if it contributes in some way to allowing more people to work, or more small businesses to function.
Take the pledge. Don't go buy a new TV. Invest the money. Invest in your country.
Man. Yahoo's bot... slurp... is killing me. Their bots have been pounding my site for weeks, sucking down lots of bandwidth.
I decided to make a robots.txt and try to disallow crawling on some of the more byte intense portions of the site. But, after just watching my log for a few minutes, I could see yahoo slurp get the new robots.txt, and completely ignore it! Dangit!
That is annoying. Apparently, I'm not alone. Cmon yahoo... get your stuff together.
