The Happiness Project: Each one changed my life, once I figured it out. Gretchen Rubin.
My Secrets of Adulthood
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Happiness Project Secrets of Adulthood
Posted by Blacky at 5:45 pm 0 comments
Mystery Giveaway at 1saleaday.com.au Pay only $4.95 for delivery Aust wide. - OzBargain
At 1saleaday, they need to make space for new and exciting products so they’re giving all their old stock away. If they’ve sold it in the past, chances are it could be here in the mystery giveaway. All you have to do is pay the 4.95 postage. You could get anything from a memory card to iphone Case to HDMI cable.
Mystery Giveaway at 1saleaday.com.au Pay only $4.95 for delivery Aust wide
Posted by Blacky at 6:55 am 0 comments
Sunday, December 13, 2009
TeuxDeux: a simple online to-do list manager
TeuxDeux is an new online to-do list manager created by Tina Roth Eisenberg (AKA Swissmiss) and Fictive Kin. It’s not as full-featured as some other online to-do list applications, but if you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and has a strikingly elegant and minimal user-interface, then you should definitely take it for a test drive.
TeuxDeux: a simple online to-do list manager
Posted by Blacky at 7:33 am 0 comments
Friday, December 11, 2009
Most Popular Top 10s of 2009 - Lifehacker
Every weekend, we comb our memories and archives to compile 10 useful items addressing a specific topic you may have forgotten about, or just happen to be excellent. Here are the 20 list(icle) posts that proved the most popular in 2009.
Most Popular Top 10s of 2009
Posted by Blacky at 9:15 pm 0 comments
Most Popular How-To Features of 2009 - Lifehacker
We cover a lot of tips every day on Lifehacker, but we get our greatest pleasure from putting together in-depth, step-by-step guides. From Windows 7 to Hackintoshes and beyond, here's a look back at our most popular how-to features of '09.
Most Popular How-To Features of 2009
Posted by Blacky at 7:01 am 0 comments
IPL 15 Things
From the Internet Public Library - Explore our first seven of 15 "Things," Blogs, Microblogging, Social Networking, Wikis, Virtual Worlds, Podcasting, and Videos, and take the 15 Things Challenge!
IPL 15 Things - IPL Wiki
Posted by Blacky at 6:59 am 0 comments
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Australian Social Trends, Dec 2009
The December issue reveals that over the last decade, the number of jobless families has fallen, while the number of people who live alone has been increasing. We also see that Australians are less likely to smoke than in the past, but more likely to be obese and that many workers work non-traditional hours.
Australian Social Trends, Dec 2009
Posted by Blacky at 9:55 pm 0 comments
FAIL Blog’s Top Ten FAIL Lists for 2009 « FAIL Blog
Drum roll please! The votes have been tabulated and FAIL Blog has the official results for our first annual Top Ten Lists of the Biggest FAIL Moments, the Biggest FAIL People and the Most Epic FAIL Blog Videos and Pictures for 2009 as voted on by 100,000 FAILers. It was a year of many fails, but Kanye West won the grand prize of “King of Fail” for 2009.
FAIL Blog’s Top Ten FAIL Lists for 2009
Posted by Blacky at 9:50 pm 0 comments
Mystery mountain range explained
Scientists have explained how a mysterious mountain range in central Australia was formed 550 million years ago.
Mystery mountain range explained
Posted by Blacky at 5:18 pm 0 comments
The Louvre iPhone App's Like Being There Without the Plane Ticket
If you're not traveling to Paris anytime soon to visit The Louvre, then grab the art museum's free iPhone app. It's packed with enough info about its famous paintings to make you feel like you're there on a private tour.
The Louvre iPhone App's Like Being There Without the Plane Ticket
Posted by Blacky at 5:16 pm 0 comments
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
WhoCrashed Explains Why Your Windows PC Crashed
Generally, when your computer crashes, your best hope of figuring out what went wrong (and thus preventing future crashes) usually hinges on sifting through complex log files. WhoCrashed aims to make this process easier by summarising what happened when your computer went down, including specific information on exactly what piece of hardware, software, or driver caused the crash.
WhoCrashed Explains Why Your Windows PC Crashed
Posted by Blacky at 10:47 pm 0 comments
Australian Bushfire Map Offers Up-To-Date Fire Tracking
Bushfire season is in full swing early, and online resources are key to keeping track of where things are happening. The Australian Bushfire Map integrates fire warnings for four states (NSW, Victoria, Queensland and SA) with Google Maps to provide up-to-date news of current fires.
Australian Bushfire Map Offers Up-To-Date Fire Trackin
Posted by Blacky at 10:45 pm 0 comments
John Lennon tribute: "War is Over!" crowd-sourced translations
Yesterday, December 8, marked the anniversary of the death of John Lennon. In tribute, Yoko Ono and the Imagine Peace team are crowd-sourcing translations of the famous John & Yoko "WAR IS OVER!" poster for people to print and share over the holiday season as cards or posters.
John Lennon tribute: "War is Over!" crowd-sourced translations
Posted by Blacky at 10:39 pm 0 comments
Population by Age and Sex, Australian States and Territories, Jun 2009
This issue contains estimates of the resident population of Australian states and territories as at 30 June of each reference year. Estimates up to 2006 are final, based on the results of the 2006 Census of Population and Housing. Estimates for June 2007 have been revised and estimates from June 2008 onwards are preliminary.
Population by Age and Sex, Australian States and Territories, Jun 2009
Posted by Blacky at 5:50 pm 0 comments
Japanese subway etiquette poster campaign
I like the art and colors of these Japanese subway posters that remind people to be considerate of others.
Japanese subway etiquette poster campaign
Posted by Blacky at 7:57 am 0 comments
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
namebench - DNS Benchmark Utility
Are you a power-user with 5 minutes to spare? Do you want a faster internet experience? Try out namebench. It hunts down the fastest DNS servers available for your computer to use.
namebench - DNS Benchmark Utility
Posted by Blacky at 10:52 am 0 comments
How to Never Be Late For Work or Anything Again
I hate to be late. If I’m driving to a business meeting and get stuck in traffic, I whip myself into a frenzy, imagining the person on the other end checking their watch every two minutes and cursing me for having such little regard for their time.
How to Never Be Late For Work or Anything Again
Posted by Blacky at 10:44 am 0 comments
How to Know When Your DNS Servers Are Failing
Now that both Google Public DNS and OpenDNS offer alternative, public DNS services anyone can use instead of their service provider's DNS servers, the question is: How do you know if your DNS service isn't working properly and if you should switch?
How to Know When Your DNS Servers Are Failing
Posted by Blacky at 10:42 am 0 comments
Google Launches Real-time Search
We knew that it would be coming eventually and the time apparently has come today. At least for some users that is as Google stays true to its policy to roll out changes to their services over time. Real-time search is an addition to the standard Google search results that users see when they perform a search in the search engine.
Google Launches Real-time Search
Posted by Blacky at 9:30 am 0 comments
Monday, December 07, 2009
The Top 10 Gadgets of the Decade; Will the Data These Devices Hold Be Accessible in Another 10 Years?
We love gadgets and it’s likely many of you also love them. The same goes for lists. So when a list containing selections for the Top 10 Gadgets of the Decade, we have to make mention of it.
The Top 10 Gadgets of the Decade; Will the Data These Devices Hold Be Accessible in Another 10 Years?
Posted by Blacky at 5:10 pm 0 comments
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Q&A: To treat or not to treat visual migraines?
Every couple of months I get a visual migraine—flashing lights in my field of vision, but no headache. My ophthalmologist says not to worry and that I don’t need any treatment. Is he right?
Q&A: To treat or not to treat visual migraines?
Posted by Blacky at 2:40 pm 0 comments
Family Friendly sites listed on Blackstump Australia Issue 34 -December 6, 2009
The latest issue of new Family Friendly sites listed on The Black Stump.
Family Friendly sites listed on Blackstump Australia Issue 34 -December 6, 2009
Posted by Blacky at 2:21 pm 0 comments
Friday, December 04, 2009
100 Blogs that Will Inspire You to Be a Better Person
Everyone needs a little help sometimes in getting motivated, relaxing, feeling happy or just getting those creative juices flowing. Luckily, the Internet is full of places to find inspiration. These blogs can help you get moving towards your goals, whether you want to give back more to the community, feel better about yourself, or just get in shape.
100 Blogs that Will Inspire You to Be a Better Person
Posted by Blacky at 9:43 pm 0 comments
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Eight Tips to Know If You're Being Boring
How do you know if the other person is interested in your conversation – or not? One challenge is that the more socially adept a person is, the better he or she is at hiding boredom. It’s a rare person, however, who can truly look fascinated while bored.
Eight Tips to Know If You're Being Boring
Posted by Blacky at 5:21 pm 0 comments
Is it time to kill the Antarctic Treaty?
Fifty years ago, 12 nations—Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Britain, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the Soviet Union and the U.S.—agreed to cede their claims to Antarctica. The continent would belong to no nation and become a nature preserve and scientific laboratory open to all.
Observations: Is it time to kill the Antarctic Treaty?
Posted by Blacky at 5:18 pm 0 comments
iPhone Constantly Running Low on Juice? Try a $15 External Battery
A $15 external iPhone battery from MonoPrice that can store enough juice to charge the phone twice over.
iPhone Constantly Running Low on Juice? Try a $15 External Battery
Posted by Blacky at 6:57 am 0 comments
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Step-by-Step Math
Have you ever given up working on a math problem because you couldn’t figure out the next step? Wolfram|Alpha can guide you step by step through the process of solving many mathematical problems, from solving a simple quadratic equation to taking the integral of a complex function.
Step-by-Step Math
Posted by Blacky at 11:09 pm 0 comments
NORAD Santa Tracker 2009 Goes Live
The NORAD Santa Tracker service has just gone live for those who are ready to start searching for St. Nick. While you won’t actually get to track him until Christmas Eve, there are resources at the site now.
NORAD Santa Tracker 2009 Goes Live
Posted by Blacky at 10:46 pm 0 comments
Lasik: is it worth $6000?
Excimer laser technology was first used and developed by IBM to make etchings on computer chips in the 70s. The first excimer eye surgery was conducted in 1988, and the basic underlying technology has remained pretty much the same since then. There are a few things that are new now.
Lasik: is it worth $6000?
Posted by Blacky at 7:39 am 0 comments
AOL’s List Of Lists – Top Searches 2009
AOL has weighed in with a heavy hitting list of 2009’s top searches in the categories below.
AOL’s List Of Lists – Top Searches 2009
Posted by Blacky at 7:28 am 0 comments
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Official Google Australia Blog: Melbourne in 3D on Google Earth
Been to Melbourne lately? If not, it has become a whole lot easier to get your Melbourne fix without jumping on a plane, thanks to recent updates to the 3D buildings layer in Google Earth.
Official Google Australia Blog: Melbourne in 3D on Google Earth
Posted by Blacky at 9:23 pm 0 comments
Yahoo Releases Top Searches of 2009 (Twitter Nowhere to Be Found)
2009 was a year of ups and downs for Yahoo search. While we wait for the Yahoo/Microsoft search deal to take effect, we know that Yahoo still holds firm as the number two search site, with 18.8% market share (to Google’s 64.9%) according to October data from comScore.
Yahoo Releases Top Searches of 2009 (Twitter Nowhere to Be Found)
Posted by Blacky at 9:20 pm 0 comments
Google’s 2009 Aussie Zeitgeist results zoom into the room!
Google’s top list of Australian searches for 2009 has been revealed, showing the ideas and spirit of the times as they were down under, and as you can imagine, many of the major Australian and international events of the year such as Twilight, Susan Boyle and stimulus packages all definitely make the cut!
Google’s 2009 Aussie Zeitgeist results zoom into the room!
Posted by Blacky at 9:15 pm 0 comments
Find of the Month - National Archives of Australia
Long before the six white boomers of Rolf Harris and Christmas cards of Ken Done, Lionel Lindsay created uniquely Australian greeting cards. From the cattle dog stealing the Christmas turkey to the big boomer acting as Santa Claus, and native animals toasting in the New Year, Lindsay’s cards took a whimsical look at how ordinary Australians and our native wildlife might celebrate the festive season.
Find of the Month - National Archives of Australia
Posted by Blacky at 3:55 pm 0 comments
Do You Really Need More Than 4GB of RAM?
With the price of upgrading system RAM extremely low these days, people are always asking me whether it's really worth it to upgrade beyond 4GB; today we'll answer that question for everybody.
Do You Really Need More Than 4GB of RAM?
Posted by Blacky at 8:27 am 0 comments
Monday, November 30, 2009
Twitter Declared Most Popular English Word of 2009
While Twitter may have taken second place in Bing’s 10 most searched topics of 2009, we’ve now learned that it has become top dog in something far bigger: the entire English language.
Twitter Declared Most Popular English Word of 2009
Posted by Blacky at 10:00 pm 0 comments
Top Bing Searches in 2009
Cue Music. Awwww, 2009. It was a year of UFO shaped dirigibles, mom jeans on pop stars, real housewives, a new president, and a new decision engine. Oh and there may have been something about Vampires too, we weren’t really paying attention. Yes, it was quite a year and what better way to reminisce then by taking a trip down memory lane with a look back at what topped the list of Bing searches. If you’re curious how we determined the top searches, we analyzed billions of search queries and developed the list based on searches made with Bing.
Top Bing Searches in 2009
Posted by Blacky at 5:27 pm 0 comments
Saturday, November 28, 2009
10 Views of Earth from the Moon, Mars and Beyond
For more than 40 years, missions throughout the solar system have sent back stunning images of our home planet.
10 Views of Earth from the Moon, Mars and Beyond
Posted by Blacky at 8:12 pm 0 comments
Friday, November 27, 2009
How to Fix Your Relatives' Terrible Computer
Drop your bags, grab a drink, and grab the XP CD—it's time for the holiday ritual of fixing up your relatives' computer. Here are some tips and downloads to keep handy while you're cursing all the auto-starting crapware.
How to Fix Your Relatives' Terrible Computer
Posted by Blacky at 7:17 pm 0 comments
How to Light a Fire in a Fireplace
Lighting a fire in a fireplace is, in general, viewed as an easy task. Because of this, a majority of people may forget a few key steps in the process that would help them enjoy their fire better. What could have been a nice night by the fire can easily become a smoke filled room. Here is a recommended method that if followed, should help make your fire enjoyable from the start.
How to Light a Fire in a Fireplace
Posted by Blacky at 7:35 am 0 comments
61 Free Apps We're Most Thankful For
Cornucopia of excellent free software and webapps we're extremely thankful for. So whether you're an American celebrating the season or not, the selection of apps below is like gravy-drenched turkey and mashed potatoes for your computer.
61 Free Apps We're Most Thankful For
Posted by Blacky at 7:33 am 0 comments
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Diamond optical illusion
Antonio at Fogonazos writes about this interesting optical illusion. The four rows of diamonds appear to be colored with different shades of gray, but all the diamonds are identical. In fact, the diamonds aren't solid gray, they are tinted with a gradient (lighter on the top, darker on the bottom).
Diamond optical illusion
Posted by Blacky at 9:34 pm 0 comments
How to maximize coupon savings
Yesterday we came across this amazing YouTube video of a Good Morning America segment profiling Kathy Spencer, who runs How to Shop for Free. By using a few techniques highlighted in the video, she manages to feed her family of six for less money than you probably have in your sofa cushions right now.
How to maximize coupon savings
Posted by Blacky at 9:27 pm 0 comments
Cash is King: Proverbs about money
With yet more stories in the press about banks, bailouts, recession, and the economy, I wondered what the new edition of The Little Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs had to say about money. Unsurprisingly, it’s something that has preoccupied people for a very, very long time. Here’s a selection of money-related proverbs from across the centuries.
Cash is King: Proverbs about money
Posted by Blacky at 9:22 pm 0 comments
How to Do Laundry While Traveling
If you're going to be away from home for more than a few days, washing clothes along the way will mean carrying far less. On an extended trip, washing clothes may be the only way to travel. It's not difficult or even time consuming to wash your own clothes while you are away.
How to Do Laundry While Traveling
Posted by Blacky at 9:17 pm 0 comments
Deaths, Australia, 2008
Death rates in Australia have remained steady over recent years, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The standardised death rate was 6 deaths per 1000 people in 2008 - unchanged since 2005. Twenty years ago, the rate was 9 deaths per 1000 people. There were 143,900 deaths (73,500 men and 70,400 women) registered in 2008.
Deaths, Australia, 2008
Posted by Blacky at 6:25 pm 0 comments
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
10 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Getting Cancer
Below is an expanded list of things you can do to reduce your risk of getting cancer.
10 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Getting Cancer
Posted by Blacky at 8:35 am 0 comments
Gmail, Windows Live Hotmail and Yahoo Mail Comparison
Have you ever asked yourself how you did end up with the email account that you are currently using? Chance is that you have at least one account at one of the three most popular web based email service providers Gmail, Yahoo Mail or Windows Live Hotmail.
Gmail, Windows Live Hotmail and Yahoo Mail Comparison
Posted by Blacky at 8:30 am 0 comments
Math tackles the rear-end collision
According to U.S. researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology, rear-end collisions can be avoided by a simple algorithm inserted into your car’s computer that tells a driver that the car in front is going slower than they are.
Math tackles the rear-end collision
Posted by Blacky at 8:25 am 0 comments
Buzzword: Teeth bleachorexia
Bottom line: With so much still unknown, we think you should take it easy on how frequently you use tooth whiteners. If a super-white smile is especially important to you, break out the kits for special occasions, like before you greet your friends over the holidays. With any luck, that should tide you over until at least swimsuit season.
Buzzword: Teeth bleachorexia
Posted by Blacky at 8:22 am 0 comments
Simple, cheap remedy for toenail fungus
I used to cringe when my yoga instructor told us to “take off your socks.” The big toenail on my right foot was an ugly flakey brownish gray, a condition I’ve had for years. It may have started when I was taking Tae Kwon Do and kept landing on my big toe while trying to do roundhouse kicking.
Simple, cheap remedy for toenail fungus
Posted by Blacky at 8:20 am 0 comments
How to Make Luggage Easier to Spot
After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is pull a dozen pieces of luggage off a baggage carousel to check if they're yours, since they all look pretty much the same. The best way to avoid this is to buy unique luggage, but if you've already got luggage that looks like everyone else's, here are some ways to make it stand out.
How to Make Luggage Easier to Spot
Posted by Blacky at 8:16 am 0 comments
Digger's diary recounts 'hell on earth'
After 94 years of research and historical writing, you might expect that we would know everything there is to know about the Gallipoli landings. But the State Library of New South Wales has just proven that there is more to learn, especially on a personal level. The library took possession of a digger's diary, largely penned in the trenches by a young soldier from Sydney called Charles Hardy.
Digger's diary recounts 'hell on earth'
Posted by Blacky at 7:56 am 0 comments
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Family Friendly sites listed on Blackstump Australia Issue 33 -November 22, 2009
The latest issue of new Family Friendly sites listed on The Black Stump.
Family Friendly sites listed on Blackstump Australia Issue 33 -November 22, 2009
Posted by Blacky at 7:00 am 1 comments
Friday, November 20, 2009
8 Reasons We Don't Do Things We Should and How To Break the Mould
Our lives are full of things we “should” do but for a range of reasons we don’t do them. Whatever it is – exercise, healthy eating, saving money – most of the time we choose to take the easier road, the road well traveled.
8 Reasons We Don't Do Things We Should and How To Break the Mould
Posted by Blacky at 8:19 pm 0 comments
The Ten Most Influential Internet Moments of the Decade
Earlier today, the organisers of the Webby Awards announced their selection of the most influential moments on the Internet in the past decade.
The Ten Most Influential Internet Moments of the Decade
Posted by Blacky at 8:14 pm 0 comments
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Save Your Lungs, Blow Real Air With Your iPhone [Video]
We know how hard it is: birthday after birthday, those stubborn candles aren’t extinguishing themselves, and your poor lungs aren’t getting any younger. You know the drill: there’s an app for that! The iPhone app is called Blower and it works by moving air through the speakers of your iPhone (strictly speaking, the same thing happens when you play music through those speakers, but let’s not be too harsh on the novelty part of the application).
Save Your Lungs, Blow Real Air With Your iPhone [Video]
Posted by Blacky at 7:33 am 0 comments
International Travel Tips
You should try to get as much information as possible about the country you are visiting, but this list of tips should give you some good starting points that are relevant for most any destination.
International Travel Tips
Posted by Blacky at 7:29 am 0 comments
Do Speedy Math in Your Head
Arthur Benjamin is a wizard at maths. Literally. At Hollywood's Magic Castle, the world-famous conjurer's club, he wows the crowd by multiplying big numbers — quick, what's 57,682 squared? — faster than you can use a calculator. Here he shares three cool tricks. (The answer, by the way: 3,327,213,124. See how easy it is?)
Do Speedy Math in Your Head
Posted by Blacky at 7:27 am 0 comments
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Keep Frequent Business Travel Stress In Perspective
If you travel a lot for business, you know it’s often not as glamorous as it sounds. Check out one frequent flier’s tips on keeping business travel burn-out in check.
Keep Frequent Business Travel Stress In Perspective
Posted by Blacky at 7:44 am 0 comments
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
How To Change Default Programs In Windows
Default programs in Windows are those programs that are started when opening or editing certain file types or protocols. It can be an image viewer or editor for image formats or a web browser like Firefox or Internet Explorer for the http protocol. I recently encountered a problem in Windows 7 that was driving me crazy. My preferred image editor Paint.net was not the default program when right-clicking an image or photo and selecting edit from the context menu. Windows 7 would instead open the default Paint application that was overhauled for the operating system.
How To Change Default Programs In Windows
Posted by Blacky at 8:24 am 0 comments
“Unfriend” is Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year
It seems that “word of the year” announcements have become the de facto way for dictionary makers to grab some social media buzz by selecting a word from our neck of the woods. And sure enough, they’ve done it again, this time with Oxford Dictionary declaring “unfriend” the word of 2009.
“Unfriend” is Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year
Posted by Blacky at 8:21 am 0 comments
Monday, November 16, 2009
How to Use "i.e." Versus "e.g."
The abbreviations "i.e." and "e.g." are very commonly misused. This is because very few people actually know what they mean. This article should help improve your understanding of these little tidbits of grammar.
How to Use "i.e." Versus "e.g."
Posted by Blacky at 7:43 pm 0 comments
2012: Six End-of-the-World Myths Debunked
The end of the world is near—December 21, 2012, to be exact—according to theories based on a purported ancient Maya prediction and fanned by the marketing machine behind the soon-to-be-released 2012 movie.
2012: Six End-of-the-World Myths Debunked
Posted by Blacky at 7:32 pm 0 comments
Windows Clipboard Manager PasteCopy
It is not really clear why Microsoft
never improved the default behavior of the Windows Clipboard. The biggest flaw in the eyes of most users is the inability to store more than one entry in the clipboard. So called clipboard managers are designed by third party developers to provide this and additional functionality. PasteCopy.net is but one of those Windows clipboard managers.
Windows Clipboard Manager PasteCopy
Posted by Blacky at 8:01 am 0 comments
Friday, November 13, 2009
We''ll be back on Monday
Beyond...The Black Stump is taking a weekend off! Crazy Loco....see ya Monday!
Posted by Blacky at 4:00 pm 0 comments
Thursday, November 12, 2009
5 Hot Social Shopping Trends to Watch For
The Internet has already radically changed the way we shop. Googling for promotion codes, free shipping, free return shipping, virtual models, live chats with sales associates – it’s all become common place.
5 Hot Social Shopping Trends to Watch For
Posted by Blacky at 7:59 am 0 comments
Fine and Dandy (In All Except Etymology)
Dandy first made its appearance on the Scottish border and in the 1780’s became current in British slang. Its origin (most probably, dialectal) remains a mystery—a common thing with such words. Etymologists have grudgingly resigned themselves to the idea that dandy goes back to the pet name of Andrew.
Fine and Dandy (In All Except Etymology)
Posted by Blacky at 7:53 am 0 comments
The EZ Cracker
Just watch the failed attempts to crack an egg in the advertisement for the EZ Cracker. Seriously, who has this much trouble cracking an egg?
The EZ Cracker
Posted by Blacky at 7:51 am 0 comments
Baked Australia: Water Management Lessons for the World from Down Under
Another summer is heating up Down Under, and the forecast looks as worrisome and as potentially deadly as last summer's. A decade of drought is parching landscapes, devastating farmers, killing gum trees, and forcing a new definition of conservation into the continental nation's colorful lexicon. Could Australia see a day when a bottle of water is worth more than a bottle of Shiraz?
Baked Australia: Water Management Lessons for the World from Down Under
Posted by Blacky at 7:46 am 0 comments
Twelve Surprising Uses for Vicks VapoRub
Vicks is an age-old mentholated topical cream intended to relieve head, throat, and chest stuffiness. It uses menthol to elicit a response from receptors in the nose and chest and can work wonders on children with colds or chronic bronchitis. Vicks has been around for over one hundred years and is one of the most widely used over-the-counter decongestants. Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz about unique and unconventional ways to use this odiferous ointment. You’ll be surprised to learn that Vicks VapoRub is a supposed treatment for so much more than just a congested chest.
Twelve Surprising Uses for Vicks VapoRub
Posted by Blacky at 7:42 am 0 comments
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Births, Australia, 2008
Australia has again set a new record for the number of births in a year, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). A total of 296,600 births were registered in 2008, surpassing the previous record years of 2007 (285,200 births) and 1971 (276,400).
Births, Australia, 2008
Posted by Blacky at 9:17 pm 0 comments
16 Lessons in Customer Service from a Car Salesman
Customer service lessons learned from buying a new car.
16 Lessons in Customer Service from a Car Salesman
Posted by Blacky at 7:53 am 0 comments
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Find and Get Rid of Old Files with an Advanced Explorer Search
It's easy to visualize your hard drive usage by file size to get rid of big files you don't need, but if you want to hunt down the files you haven't used in ages, this quick search query can help.
Find and Get Rid of Old Files with an Advanced Explorer Search
Posted by Blacky at 8:47 am 0 comments
Are Extended Warranties Ever a Good Deal?
Extended warranties are everywhere. Every time you buy a car, a house, a computer, a cell phone or pretty much any appliance, you'll be offered a chance to purchase an extended warranty on it. Are these warranty contracts ever a good deal? They shouldn't be. To make a profit, the private companies that offer these things need to take in more money than they pay out in warranty claims. And they do make money.
Are Extended Warranties Ever a Good Deal?
Posted by Blacky at 8:42 am 0 comments
How to Fix an iPhone 3G Screen
You, like many people, have broken your iPhone screen! These steps and video will show you how to fix it yourself. Read entire guide before beginning the process.
How to Fix an iPhone 3G Screen (with video)
Posted by Blacky at 8:37 am 0 comments
Monday, November 09, 2009
3 Faster Less Obtrusive Google Search Engines
There are two main reasons for switching to one of Google’s alternative search interfaces: Speed and Usability. The following three Google search engines utilize the same search index and parameters that the default Google search engine offers with the difference that all four of them are faster, more accessible and less obtrusive when displaying search results.
3 Faster Less Obtrusive Google Search Engines
Posted by Blacky at 8:03 am 0 comments
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Top 10 Clever Fixes for Your Broken Stuff
Buying a replacement at Target isn't always the necessary solution when your stuff goes on the fritz. Fix common problems or altogether broken gear with these clever repair methods.
Top 10 Clever Fixes for Your Broken Stuff
Posted by Blacky at 11:17 am 0 comments
If they don’t spot him, we’re doomed
Another likely suspect!
If they don’t spot him, we’re doomed
Posted by Blacky at 10:19 am 0 comments
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Blackstump Australia Issue 32 -November 8, 2009
The latest issue of new Family Friendly sites listed on The Black Stump.
Blackstump Australia Issue 32 -November 8, 2009
Posted by Blacky at 10:27 pm 0 comments
How To Be Great
If you have plans on becoming great, you’ll want to read this brief article.
How To Be Great
Posted by Blacky at 8:35 pm 0 comments
What's Your Favorite Stress Reliever?
If you turn to your MP3 collection when you're stressed out, you're not alone. The American Psychological Association found that a majority of people polled for the last two years running claim music as their number one stress reliever.
What's Your Favorite Stress Reliever?
Posted by Blacky at 8:27 pm 0 comments
Knocking Out the Beliefs That Hold You Back
“Freelance writing can’t be a successful business.” That was my limiting belief. (To be fair, it was a belief I held long before the well-meaning professor reinforced it.) So I took a full-time job as an editor, and on the side I’d write maybe one or two magazine articles a year. I didn’t believe I could have a thriving freelance business, so I didn’t even try.
Knocking Out the Beliefs That Hold You Back
Posted by Blacky at 8:18 pm 0 comments
It's safe to drink rainwater in Australia
According to a Monash University study, people in Australia who drink rainwater are just as safe as others.
It's safe to drink rainwater in Australia
Posted by Blacky at 6:10 pm 0 comments
Secrets of Telemarketing From an Industry Insider
They call you at all hours. They don't care if you're eating dinner or taking a shower. And they really don't like to hear you say no. They're telemarketers. And recently, someone from "behind enemy lines" came forward to give us all invaluable tips on dealing with those harassing calls.
Secrets of Telemarketing From an Industry Insider
Posted by Blacky at 6:08 pm 0 comments
Feeling grumpy 'is good for you'
In a bad mood? Don't worry - according to research, it's good for you. An Australian psychology expert who has been studying emotions has found being grumpy makes us think more clearly.
Feeling grumpy 'is good for you'
Posted by Blacky at 7:54 am 0 comments
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Eight Tips for Feeling More Energetic
Feeling energetic is a key to feeling happy. Studies show that when you feel energetic, you feel much better about yourself. On the other hand, when you feel exhausted, tasks that would ordinarily make you happy—like putting up holiday decorations—make you feel overwhelmed and blue.
Eight Tips for Feeling More Energetic
Posted by Blacky at 7:11 pm 0 comments
The iPhone is the worst phone in the world
That's right, we said it -- and we're not taking it back. The iPhone may be the greatest handheld surfing device ever to rock the mobile Web, and a fabulous media player to boot. It may be the highest-rated mobile phone on CNET UK, rocking the pockets of half of our crack editorial team. It's certainly the touchscreen face that launched a thousand apps. But as an actual call-making phone, it's rubbish, and we aim to prove it.
The iPhone is the worst phone in the world
Posted by Blacky at 6:40 am 0 comments
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath
There are many ways to cover up bad breath, but if you're tired of quick fixes and want to banish halitosis once and for all, take these instructions to heart--or should we say mouth?
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Posted by Blacky at 8:04 pm 0 comments
6 Natural Remedies You Probably Already Have
Natural spices in the kitchen cabinet have been ingredients of home remedies for several generations, and in this post, I want to share some of these spices that I have grown to love and respect.
6 Natural Remedies You Probably Already Have
Posted by Blacky at 6:37 pm 0 comments
Open a Bottle of Wine with Your Shoe
Got a bottle of wine on hand but no corkscrew to get it open? You can argue all you want about whether or not the guy in this video really needs more wine, but you can't argue with the results.
Open a Bottle of Wine with Your Shoe
Posted by Blacky at 6:22 pm 0 comments
How to Know How Much Sleep You Need
Do you feel drowsy? Can't stop yawning? Maybe you're not getting as much sleep as you should. Or perhaps you overslept--there is such a thing, and it's not good for you, either![1] How much sleep you actually needs depends on your age, activity level, and even genetics. This article will help you figure it out with a test.
How to Know How Much Sleep You Need
Posted by Blacky at 7:30 am 0 comments
Browser Speed Tests: The Windows 7 Results
Firefox 3.6 Beta 1, like every other browser, makes a claim to being "faster." We took Firefox and all the other latest browsers, put them on Windows 7, and ran them through our human-measured speed tests to vet the bragging.
Browser Speed Tests: The Windows 7 Results
Posted by Blacky at 7:27 am 0 comments
Convert Photos To PDF
Converting multiple photos into single pdf documents has several advantages. A single file can be stored and managed more comfortable and it’s also easier to distribute them without running into the problem of missing photos in the process. One interesting use would be for instance to convert photos that have been taken on the last holiday into one pdf document to send the document to friends and relatives.
Convert Photos To PDF
Posted by Blacky at 7:24 am 0 comments
Google Maps Creates New UK Town Called Argleton
Google and its UK map provider, Tele Atlas, are cleaning the egg off their faces this week over the appearance of a town called Argleton in Google Maps. It’s right there on Google Maps, and there’s even an Argleton place page with photos and more.
Google Maps Creates New UK Town Called Argleton
Posted by Blacky at 7:16 am 0 comments
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
How To Remove Your Bike Chain
Being able to remove your bike chain is one of those things anyone who owns a bike should be able to do. Blog OzSoapbox details how to go about it in a chatty, experience-filled post.
How To Remove Your Bike Chain
Posted by Blacky at 10:10 pm 0 comments
.A Secret to Happiness That I Overlooked -- Until Now.
People are adaptable. We quickly adjust to a new life circumstance—for better or worse—and consider it normal. Although this helps us when our situation worsens, it means that when circumstances improve, we soon become hardened to new comforts or privileges. Scoring air-conditioning, a bigger house, or a fancy title gives us only a brief boost in happiness before we start to take it for granted. As Aldous Huxley wrote, “Habit converts luxurious enjoyments into dull and daily necessities.” That’s the hedonic treadmill.
.A Secret to Happiness That I Overlooked -- Until Now..
Posted by Blacky at 7:42 am 0 comments
How to Get Out of Bed When You Really Don’t Feel Like It.
We’ve all been there: the alarm goes off, we’re feeling groggy, reach out and slap it to snooze. Five minutes later, the same things happens. We switch the alarm off again. The thought of getting out of bed seems like way too much effort. We know that, once we get up, we have to launch into the day – that to-do list we made last night, those chores that need doing…
How to Get Out of Bed When You Really Don’t Feel Like It
Posted by Blacky at 7:41 am 0 comments
Melbourne Cup iPhone App
The race that stops a nation takes place today, and gadget junkies can add a little techno-flare to the occasion with the official Melbourne Cup iPhone application from the Victoria Racing Club.
Melbourne Cup iPhone App
Posted by Blacky at 7:36 am 0 comments
Monday, November 02, 2009
How to Be Assertive Without Being Arrogant
Assertiveness is an important means for communicating your needs in a way that is fair to both yourself and to others. Unfortunately, for some insecure people, assertive people are sometimes threatening and it is easier to label them as arrogant, selfish, or unhelpful when they receive the answer "no" or when boundaries are made clear by the assertive person. In particular, those with manipulative, neediness, and trust problems can see assertive responses as undermining their own agendas and will seek to respond with negative critiques of an assertive person's behavior. This is where it can get a little tricky for the newly assertive convert but it's no reason to suddenly start worrying that you are arrogant!
How to Be Assertive Without Being Arrogant
Posted by Blacky at 10:02 pm 0 comments