RSS feeds

I've used Google Reader for some time and enjoy that service because it keeps me up to date on the blogs I'm most interested in. I can check if any of them have updated without visiting each site individually.

However, through Bloglines, you still have to jump to the sites to read full articles which will display ads embedded in the page and trigger annoying pop-ups. However, it's nice to scan headlines in peace, even if you lose the pictures through the feed.

Also, neither Google nor Bloglines displays user comments in the feed, which can be positive and negative. Sometimes I want to hear what other people think, and sometimes I don't.

Flickr Mashups

card
Originally uploaded by sun_falling

I explored several flickr mashups including all those listed in the Discover blog. I can't see how the collage would be useful but I enjoyed the images retrievr came up with. I made a trading card and I can see how fun it would be to make a whole deck if you had a theme.

I enjoyed exploring the Trip Planner as well, though it relies more on Yahoo than Flickr. I'd have to spend a lot more time with it to actually plan a trip, but it's something to keep in mind. I like how many options you have and how it arranges all the times in a comprehendible pattern.

Photo: "the colors of queens"

the colors of queens
Originally uploaded by JS300

I really love this Flickr photo because there's so much to look at. All the colors and the stylized words spread in every free space.

7.5 Habits

The easiest habit for me is to set a goal. I'm constantly making lists of things I want to accomplish. However, I often don't elaborate on how to finish major goals or detail a timeline for the process.

The hardest habit is seeing setbacks in a positive way. Generally, when I encounter a problem, I worry that I'm doing something wrong and I often get discouraged. However, I know that challenges are a part of life, and working through them tends to give me skills and experience for the future.