Thanks to Children In Need, the charity the BBC has the telethon for every year, and our friend Gordon up in Chicago, here's a preview for the next Doctor Who special "End Of Time Part I":

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This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of LeapFish Inc. All opinions are 100% mine.

There's some interesting points in this video. I started online with Prodigy and Compuserve in 1994, so I was there to see the launching of all of the web innovations mentioned in the video. And it is interesting how each of those innovations have helped shape and improve these internet tubes. And I'm glad that I even participated in a couple of them (what do you think I'm doing now, tap dancing?)
And I can tell you that people are ready for some innovations when it comes to searching the web. One of my wife's favorite shows is Gilmore Girls and I remember the time that Lorelei's dad responded to her boyfriend Luke's favorite author being Phillip K. Dick that he would "look up Dick on the internet". I had to explain to her why I was laughing so hard at that. When I've had to search online I almost subconsciously used my different tricks to get a better chance of finding what I was looking for. It was good to see and read that something like leapfish would help a lot in that regard. Putting aside the "new web" hype for the moment, it would be good to see some innovations and be able to get some real time responses for what you're looking for. I remember after the last Presidential debate last year that I wanted to get some more information on this "Joe the plumber" that Sen. McCain was talking about. I did get some responses to my online digging, and it helped me to write a post about it, but some real time integration would've helped me with that. Imagine how much better and easier to be to find what you're looking for online instead of having to dig and figure out how to ask for what you really want.

One good thing about joining Facebook was not only reconnecting with people that I hadn't talked to in a long time, but some of them sent birthday wishes to me. One of them was Alex Robinson. How cool was that? I need to check on some Facebook profiles so that I can return the favor.
And you know those birthday wishes you get from companies that have your information? There were a couple of good things in them. One was from Disney Movie Rewards that is sending me a blu ray for $2.95 shipping. I selected Meet The Robinsons because it was the only one out of the 5 choices I didn't have and wanted. Even though it isn't in 3D, we liked it when we got it from Netflix a while back. And DirecTV is giving me 3 free months of Showtime channels, which includes the Sundance Channel. How cool is that?
Both of these were good surprises that I wasn't expecting today.

As you may know I'm always on the lookout for new things to read online. If I read about a blog or website that sounds interesting, I'll go check it out, and if I think it's good I'll share it with you. You're probably not looking for new stuff as much as I am, but you like to hear about anything good that I come across. And I find any information about dealing with the changing paradigm of people going from the traditioanl media to computers fascinating. I don't think I'll abandon print, but it's interesting to read about it.
And I came across this new blog that touched on such things as Pay Per Click in Philadelphia and more. What was interesting was that it wasn't as dry as that sounded. There are a lot of articles about the changing times and how people are adjusting to ways to communicated with other people. And yes, there was some issues that "the man" would concern themselves with such as Philadelphia Adwords, SEM in Philadelphia and other things. But the interesting thing is, it isn't that dry and technical. Check it out. You may be surprised how interesting it is.

Yes, for those of you keeping score at home, it is the big day. I have contacted a plumber to come out and provide an estimate for the situation at the new address, and he'll be out on Monday.
The plans for the day start when Kathy gets off work. We'll travel down to Dagwood's Sandwiches for a late lunch, then take in the movie An Education playing at the art theatre. Then it's straight on to home where we'll fix steak (hamburger steak for Kathy), baked potato (steak fries for her) and corn on the cob.

The holidays are coming up soon and a lot of people are wondering what to get people on their list. Gift cards are what a lot people think of as gifts. And they can pick out whatever they want as a present. But instead of just picking out a design from the selection at the store, and being limited to using it at just one store, you can design a gift card with your own photo or design that you upload. That will make it even more of a special gift and at least show your recipients that there is thought and it wasn't just something you grabbed at the store. They may even keep the card after they use it.

Have you seen those Coinstar machines? They'll count your change and either give you cash back less a small fee for counting it, or give you a gift card with no fees charged to online merchants such as Amazon and iTunes, and I think brick and mortar businesses like Starbuck's offers gift cards through Coinstar as well. I used them a few months back to get an Amazon gift card to get some blu rays, and I recommend them. I do suggest checking under the dispenser which is where coins go, because some of the ones they reject will go through a second time.
But now they're offering a deal where they'll mail you a $10 gift card if you cash in at least $40 in change. It may be just the thing to help you with your holiday shopping.

There might be a problem with the new address we're moving to. It might be a small problem, it might be a major problem. Won't know until a plumber comes out and gives an estimate. It might something fixable, or it might be something so big that it stops the whole thing. Again, won't know until a plumber sees it. I went on Angie's List and culled some promising prospects for plumbers. Have to call them and see what they can do. But it's the uncertainty that's killing me.

Looking to do some travelling soon? Are you getting tired of the same old hotels and places and looking for something outside of tourist circles to stay at? Maybe something roomier, something unique? Then maybe you should take a look at these luxury rentals for your lodging needs on your next trip. And if you see something you like, you can contact the home owner directly and book your accomodations. Have a luxury home yourself and looking for comparable lodgings in your travels? Then arrange to have any of your homes as a luxury vacation rental to other travellers. You can save on your lodging expenses, maybe even break even or make money from your travelling away from home. Yes, there are concerns and questions, I also thought of that while checking out their website. They've got a FAQ page for vacation rentals that can answer your questions, whether you're a renter or a tenant.
And you know how expensive housing and hotels are in San Francisco? They've got some very good San Francisco bay area luxury rentals that are comparable to hotels. If you're going to pay that much, why not get so much more for your money? My travelling history has never been close to luxury, but there are some properties I would consider staying at if I were travelling there.

Having troubles making some everyday decisions in your life? Not sure where to go to eat, a friend or relative asking you to help them with your computer, or whether or not to buy that girl a drink? Here are some flowcharts to help you with those questions and more.
The one for fast food led me to a blog called Eating The Road, one that at first glance intrigues me. I'm going to check it out some more.

What do you get when you set up your state constitution to not only ban gay marriage, but civil unions, common law marriage, or anything along those lines to teh gays? (But conviently forget to ban taxing them or anything else that benefits the state, just take away their rights) You end up banning all marriages. Some would say it's a step in the right direction. I, like Mark Evanier (who pointed this out in his blog) and many others wonder about the logic that gay marriage will destroy "regular" marriage. They said the same thing about interracial marriage over 40 years ago, and last I checked it didn't affect it at all. As Wanda Sykes once said, nobody is in therapy saying their marriage hasn't been the same since Bill and Ted hooked up. "If your marriage is (messed) up, you (messed) it up."

Are you looking to travel to Australia? Travelling overseas can be expensive, and you want to see if there are any ways you can save money without shortchanging your vacation (or holiday as some countries call it) One way is to take a look at these Car Rental Prices and see if you can get a better deal than the one you have already have, or find out if there are better deals out there. And they wanted me to let you know that say "car" not auto, and their currency is dollars as well. But it's not the same dollar. According to the latest exchange rate, the Australian dollar is about 91 of US money. Something else to keep in mind when budgeting your trip.

Hey kids, did you hear that Sarah Palin has a book out? And she's even going to be close to Mah Two Central, as one of her stops on the book tour is at the Barnes & Noble in Noblesville. Kind of reinforces the town's nickname of "Nobletucky", doesn't it?
Margo Howard weighs in on the book, quoting from this humorous fake memo written by Carl Hiassen about the book suggesting changes and corrections.
The book reveals nothing new, panders to her base, and tries to settle old scores? Say it ain't so, Sarah, say it ain't so!
Reminds me of the Doonesbury cartoon that was published October 26, 2008. I've linked to it before, but at this time, the only source I could find was in a section that requires subscribing to the archives. And yes, I am a subscriber to Go Comics at this time. I transcribe the strip, but between the copyright laws and my own personal feelings, I think it would be better to just provide the main relevant point.
This transcription is copyright 2008 by G.B. Trudeau with no infringement of his rights. The following is for commentary purposes. A man (M) comes home to find his kitchen flooded and a plumber (P) working on it.
M: "Wouldn't it help if you turn off the supply lines first?"
P: "Well, yeah, some elitist licensed plumber might do it that way. But I'd rather use good 'ol (sic) common sense!"
M: "You don't know a thing about plumbing, do you?"
P: "No, but I agree with you on abortion."
W: "He does, honey-- I checked."
End of transcription.

I've talked about jumping the gun and getting Christmas stuff before Thanksgiving, but even I realize there are some things you do now so that you'll be ready for Christmas. Things like taking a look at these personalised christmas cards and placing your order so that you get them back in time to send out for the holidays. This isn't too early to do something like that. And seeing all the different styles and designs will put you in the holiday spirit. And you could choose one that not only allows you to personalize your card, but add a picture to give it even more of a personal touch.

I just wanted to share a couple of more things that I found online. First, from Wil Wheaton is a post about something Warren Ellis is working on that even if you're not a fan of his you can appreciate the fact that the barriers between those who create stuff and people who buy stuff that's created is coming down more and more.
Second, if you're facing the prospect of painting some rooms like I am, you might like the tips offered in this video from a local TV station and Angie's List. I joined Angie's List last week and it was the best investment I've made in a long time. It's better than picking listings in a phone book, and helps if you don't have people to ask for recommendations for services.

If you've got a blu ray player like me, or with the prices coming down in time for the Christmas holiday and looking to the possibility of getting one in the near future, you might want to know about this. Warner Bros is offering an exchange program to upgrade some of their DVDs to blu rays, similar to their program to trade HD-DVDs for blu rays that they offered a while back.
And if you get Fight Club on blu ray, don't worry if the menu for Never Been Kissed first pops up on screen. It's another prank by director David Fincher that Drew Barrymore signed off on.

The state lottery jackpot is getting up there, so I bought a ticket today. I was thinking about what I would do if I won the jackpot. First, I figured out what the amount would be after taxes. Then, I figured that I would invest some of it to ensure a steady flow of income. I have no intention of being one of those lottery winners that ends up broke in a few short years.
But you don't have to be a lottery winner to see about Online Trading. You'd be surprised how little it takes to get started with an Online Broker. And with their triple sign up bonus, you can get a great deal getting started in Stock Trading, and they have more specials, such as their refer-a-friend bonus. And with trades only being $6.95 with no hidden fees, you don't have to worry about getting your profits frittered away by your broker.
So if you're looking to your future and not being broke, you should see about setting up an online stock trading account with Firstrade. You don't have to be a millionaire to get started. And I'm not saying that you'll become a millionaire if you do use them, but I can agree with the thought that you'll have a better chance than if you buy lottery tickets.

I forgot his birthday was a couple of days before mine. Thanks to Geoffrey D. Wessel for reminding me. And he also points to a YouTube channel of videos featuring Moore. The first one is a 1985 interview with Moore when he was working on Swamp Thing. I think this was the same video DC was sending to smaller conventions for people to watch. I had told then girlfriend/now wife Kathy and friend Shawn that I wanted to see the video, as I enjoyed reading the comic. We got pizza from Little Caesar's and hurried back to see it. Kathy and Shawn took one look at Alan...and worried about me. Fortunately, they started reading his work and knew that "Alan Moore knows the score." I'm glad I picked up that back issue of Locas magazine for 50 cents at Half Price Books because it had an interview with him.

You watch those shows where people can compete for singing stardom, and if you have any talent in that department you think about going to try out. But you've seen those episodes where thousands of people line up for their shot at the singing brass ring, and you start to feel discouraged about your chances. And if you're looking at the long term (and wanting a singing career beyond winning a TV competition) it seems like the odds are more overwhelming. It seems so overwhelmingly hard to have your voice heard, both literally and figuratively. What can you do to overcome those barriers?
Once again, it's the internet to the rescue. You can get your shot directly with the public thanks to PopStation. Registering is free, and before you know it, you can utilize their online tools and upload song to be available in their practice rooms for two weeks. You can hone your skills to record your song and compete for your chance to win a VIP album recording experience. Different singing styles are made available each day, and people are encouraged to make their own creative compositions to stand out better on their own. Best of all, you don't have to worry about impressing celebrity judges and executives, and get your shot directly with your audience. And you can use their practice rooms to make your voice heard.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Popstation. All opinions are 100% mine.

I went out to pick up something for Kathy's birthday. She isn't online, and the chances of her coming across this is very small, but nevertheless, I'm going to keep mum on the details for about 3 weeks until after her birthday. I will give you a hint, though: I didn't get Sarah Palin's book signed for her.
And while I was out and about today, I went to some of the stores I usually don't get the chance to go to. At one place, I got some Grippo's BBQ chips that aren't in most stores. I only know of one in Indianapolis that carries them. And I went to Wal-mart where after all this time a'searching, I finally found it: the exclusive DC Superheroes wave! I finally have my Power Girl figure!

You like to have great clothes that allow you to uniquely express yourself. And you also don't want to wear the same things that everyone else around you wants to wear. You want to be stylish, but you don't want to break your budget.
Shop DCD is selling top brands that are worn by celebrities such as Ashley Tisdale, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Vanessa Hudgens, Lindsay Lohan and more. We sell Denim, Dresses, Skirts, Tops, Sweats, Leggings, Bags, etc. You can see their great selection at their home page. Their top brand is Gypsy 05.
And with their great prices, you can get the look you want and save money. And you can save more money with the different specials they have going on such as free worldwide shipping on orders over $99. Unfortunately, it doesn't apply to items on sale, but with the deals you'll find there, between the clothing and the savings you won't seem to mind. Not to mention the great fashions found in their other sections.

Remember when I told you yesterday that the Comics Journal #300 was available online yesterday? Yeah, I guess they figured it wouldn't make sense to have an upcoming issue available to read online for free, so they withdrew it to just subscribers. Sorry about that. It's still hard to figure out whatever print is going to morph into. Anytime those electronic readers want to get their act together and they come down in price, I think that will be a big step forward.

Say what you will about the show "Countdown With Keith Olbermann", but at least they're facing the problem and trying to do something about it. The problem in question is health care reform. They've raised money for funding free clinics and just held one in New Orleans. You can read more about it and see it here. There are stories in the people who came out, and they're not the stories that some politicians are trying to paint for you. There are no welfare queens who came for checkups, most of them have jobs, just no health insurance. If you think you know the score on health care, please click on the link.

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away... Actually it was 31 years ago and it was right here. Yes, it's the anniversary of the only broadcast of bootleg darling Star Wars Holiday Special. It's embedded as a Google video at the link. Why don't I embed it here? Well, reading my post about my misadventures trying to watch the broadcast and finally catching it on video years later should give you a clue as to why.

Are you counting down the days to the end of next week? No, not for Thanksgiving, but for the next day. There are a lot of people anticipating Black Friday, and from the few times I've been foolhardy enough to go out there, I can vouch for that. If you're anxiously anticipating the sales papers next week so you can start making your shopping plans, I can help you get an early start. By checking out these Black Friday ads, you can get a jump on the others and start planning your strategy to get the best deals out there and the most out of your shopping.

As if today wasn't a big enough day for us geeks (Star Trek came out on video! I went to Target to get my blu ray in their exclusive Enterprise ship disc holder) you can get the soon to be a classic novel in your household Shatnerquake downloaded for free. It's for today only, so hurry on over to get it. As Wil Wheaton described it, "It's like Lloyd Kaufman and Sam Rami's mutant offspring wrote a book. It's very funny, and doesn't try to be anything other than what it is: The William Shatner locked in surreal and hyperreal mortal combat with every character he's ever played, from the Priceline guy to Kirk."

So you've got a Twitter account and you're sharing your thoughts with the world. I have said some things about Twitter in the past, but that's because I've had this blog going for such a long time. I can say my piece, and in more than 140 characters. But I can see Twitter's attraction to people. They're not as long winded as I am (joke, at least I hope you think it is) And even on this blog there are sometimes when I just want to post an entry about something real quick and not have to do a full blown blog entry. And I've even considered having my own Twitter feed. So I can certainly see the attraction.

And for those of you out there who do have a Twitter account, here's a way you can make some money with that account. You can sign up for sponsored tweets and monetize your Twitter account. We all could use some extra money in these times, and it could sure help. And you don't have to tweet about something if you don't want to. And celebrities are not only on the Twitter bandwagon, but they're also offering sponsored tweets. Celebrities participating in the program including Kim Kardashian, Bob Vila, Sister Hazel and Leann Rimes! So go check it out and see what all the fuss is about.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Sponsored Tweets. All opinions are 100% mine.

They're going to do a two hour episode of Smallville with the Justice Society of America, and they've got a picture of Hawkman from the episode. I didn't recognize the name of the actor playing Hawkman (Michael Shanks) until I clicked on his website and scrolled down to find out what part he played on Stargate SG-1. I don't watch Smallville, but this does look very promising. I gave up on the show in season 1 with all the kryptonite monster of the week episodes. I heard it's improved since then. Does anyone know a good jumping on point for the show so I can get the discs on Netflix and catch up?

Next time you go on a vacation, instead of making a reservation at a hotel why not look into staying at a vacation rental home? Instead of cramming your family into a room with beds, a TV and a bathroom why not stay at a vacation home? There's more space and it's more like home. And the price is comparable to a hotel, or a little more. And sometimes in life it's worth spending a little more money to get a lot more in return. Even a tightwad like me knows that. And you can look up homes for destinations all over the world, such as Caribbean vacation rental and Florida vacation rental.