Certified Blogaholic

We all know that David Cook topped David Archuleta in the last American Idol showdown. After AI, the real showdown starts. Who will top the charts?

Archuleta’s “Crush” debuted at No. 2 on the Hot 100 singles chart which eclipsed Cook’s No. 3 opening “The Time of My Life” in June. The 17-year old is the first runner-up to outperform the reigning champ since the matchup between Clay Aiken’s “This Is the Night” and season-two victor Ruben Studdard’s “Flying Without Wings.” Aiken overtook Studdard with what became the best-selling single of 2003. “Crush” is the biggest song by an Idol contestant for a song never performed on the show. Comparatively, his show single “Imagine” actually did not do well with a No. 36 debut. Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone” is the only other non-debut single by an Idol contestant to reach as high as the No. 2 spot.

Nevertheless, Cook’s “The Time of My Life” did better in the download department which sold 236,000 digital copies in its opening week versus 166,000 copies for “Crush.” Cook also set a SoundScan-era record that first week, when 11 of his songs cracked the Hot 100, topping Miley Cyrus’ record of six. Only the Beatles have charted more songs at once with 14 spots back in ’64.

Unfortunately for Cook, his No. 3 peak for “Time” also made him just the second Idol champ whose big-moment single failed to open in one of the top two spots. (Jordin Sparks missed the mark as well with a tepid No. 15 bow for “This Is My Now.”)

The more important competition happens in November when both Davids will release their albums simulataneously.

Just 2 months to go and Certified Blogaholic’s web hosting service will expire. I have been searching and asking around about web hosting services. I have no qualms about my blogs current host. However, the number of web hosting services in cyberspace has me thinking that somewhere out there my be a better, cheaper, and more efficient web host. This early, I’d like to make my shortlist and decide from there.

Then again, the opinion of experts or experienced webmasters would be welcome. I doubt I have enough experience to make the smart choice. For this, I will need to refer to a web hosting rating site that can assist me with my choice. And I did find the exact site. WebHostingRating.com provides website owners a list of web hosts in the internet which are rated and reviewed according to important criteria. In one click, you get a summary of all the features offered by the web host, including bonuses and costs. Some of them are foreign to me, so I will have to rely on the number of thumbs up that the site has given the host. Their criteria for the rating includes customer satisfaction, price, reliability, uptime and customer support. It’s a fairly new site but they will also include unedited reviews from actual customers of specific web hosts which will give credibility to the rating. No body wants to read a review that is no different from an ad placement. What customers want is a review that is backed up by actual users.

So, before choosing your web host, find out what the experts think about them. Visit WebHostingRating.com and make the smart choice.

The current batch of billionaires are old timers. We’ve all heard about them and most of them are already senior citizens. The average age on Forbes’ list of the world’s wealthiest is 61. Sooner or later, these old timers will move aside to make room for the next generation. What are the profiles of the prospective billionaires?

This year, Michael and Xochi Birch sold their social networking site, Bebo, to AOL for $850 million. The two met at a college bar in London and started a beautiful relationship . . . and big business. From the sale, they received $600 million. It is an impressive haul considering that Michael is only 38 years old and Xochi at a ripe young age of 36.

The 32-year-old Tiger Woods is also part of the list since the golf champion is expected to be the first billionaire to make his money through sports. Despite his current knee injury, he is expected to recover and still make lucrative income from his endorsement deals. And there is deal maker Roelof Botha, a 34 year old venture capitalist who hit a grand slam with an early investment in YouTube. The deal gave him a 65-fold return for his company, Sequoia Capital.

From the financial market, 33 year old Chase Coleman returned a stunning 70% (after fees) last year for his company, Tiger Global. It is an unbelievable performance which is 6 times better than the hedge fund average. Whoever said that hedging is unpredictable seems to have got it wrong. His estimated earnings from his banner year was pegged as high as $400 million.

The youngest in the list is Nishita Shah at 28 who increased her family’s business empire in Thailand and is estimated to have a net worth of $375 million. She is currently planning her upcoming fashion line if not gracing pages of Thai magazines or scrutinizing financial reports. And another prospective billionaire now in his 30′s is Elon Musk, who earned $22 million when he was only 27 after selling the dot-com company Zip2. He also co-founded Paypal where he received almost $170 million in Ebay stock when the auction company bought the online payment processor. His stake continues to increase as Ebay’s continues to expand worldwide. When asked what qualities a successful entrepreneur has, he simply answers “drive.” It’s something he seems to have a lot of, including vision. He is currently working on a his company, SpaceX, which aims to provide cheap, reliable space travel to clients such as governments and satellite companies. Another venture he is working on involves electric cars and solar panels.

With the prospective billionaires on the list barely in their 40′s, I’m currently under pressure considering I am a few years older than these guys. Yet, I’m still following the pack making pennies from the internet. My big idea has to come soon. I can’t let these kids say that my generation is uninspired.

One of my biggest frustrations is art. I have not been given that gift by God. It’s no wonder I envy those who can draw or paint, those who can sculpt, or even those who are creative enough to do good layouts on scrapbooks. I am dumb when it comes to art. When I see people creating such beautiful products, I am amazed. I have no idea how they do it.

For those who do clay art products or ceramic, the finishing touch on the artwork is actually the glazes. It makes the big difference. It’s what defines your artwork as you paint the hues and design on your clay products. The leading manufacturer of glazes and underglazes is American Art Clay Co., Inc. (AMACO). They manufacture non-toxic glazes that can even be used by preschoolers for their art projects. Amaco is the expert in glazes in the art industry and they offer various types of glazes that suits different types of art products. However, their products are ACMI glazes, or certified by the Art and Creative Materials Institute, Inc. with the proper labels. The glazes are either labeled non-toxic or cautions required (for professionals only). Amaco also offers glaze chalk which are like crayons that are available in intense hues or pastes. These can be sharpened for fine details or dissolved in water for painting or spraying. They also come in the non-toxic labels or the cautions required label.

Whether you are a professional, someone with a hobby, or a parent of a pre-schooler, always remember that safety and quality are important for glazes. Go with the expert and choose Amaco’s glazes and underglazes.

When Asus came out with the EEE PC, its first ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), the world went nuts. Here’s a gadget that has a bigger screen than a PDA, bigger keypads, yet small enough to fit into a woman’s handbag. The earlier UMPCs were forgotten. My officemates rushed to get one because it was even cheaper than a smartphone. It was a mini laptop, except for one drawback — the data storage. I held back because of the limits in the memory. The data storage was too small and it would defeat the purpose of getting a portable laptop if you have to carry along a removable hard drive (At that time, flash disks or thumbdrives were only up to 4 GB). I also found the screen too small. For me, it’s still not comfortable enough to write on or surf the net with. Good thing too that I didn’t join the bandwagon. A few months later, HP came out with its own UMPC. But they rushed into it and came up short.

The newest kid on the block for UMPCs is the MSI Wind. They say this is loads better than the Asus EEE. The first batch that was released wasn’t enough and availability became difficult. Some who made reservations didn’t even get their units. It had become so hot that sellers decided to make extra bucks and canceled those who reserved at the original price. Sellers were able to mark-up extra on the price because of the demand. Before I started this post, I was planning to get my own Wind. But while reading about it, I discovered there were other brands that are coming out soon. So, I sit back again and wait.

The brands everyone is waiting for is Lenovo and Dell. If these 2 are coming out with their versions, why settle for MSI? If Lenovo comes out with its model Ideapad S10 in October 2008, it’s my choice. But I am also waiting for information on Dell’s model. The good thing about waiting is that other brands work out the wrinkles on the earlier releases and find a way to make their versions better than the earlier ones. There is still no word on Sony or Apple making their UMPC. I’m certain that it’s in the works. They are just waiting in the sidelines scouting to assure that they come out with the best in the market.

Don’t you just wish that you can hug your loved ones even when they are far away? My kids pics are all over the house. I can have the pictures printed in amazing quality now at VisionBedding.com. VisionBedding was the first to offer a photo pillow with perfect picture clarity. Their latest production technology is gentle, does not alter the fabric, and the pictures will not fade. Looking at the pictures from the website definitely proves that the quality of the prints are the best available in the market.

The good thing about VisionBedding is that you can personalize your pillow and design it exactly the way you want it right from the website. They also offer free text printing if you want an additional personal touch to your design. And if you’re having problems with your personalized pillow, they have customer service representatives and designers ready to help you through the entire process.

The technology is not just available for pillows. You can have it done on blankets and beddings too. It is also a perfect gift that anyone would love. Make your custom pillow now and visit VisionBedding.com.

Cuban Olympic boxer Dzhakhon Kurbanov was disqualified during his light heavyweight bout with Kazakhstan’s Yerkebulan Shynaliyev. The bout was stopped 17 seconds before the end of the third round when Shynaliyev showed the referee blood on his shoulders. Apparently, Kurbanov bit him during the clinch.

It was good that Evander Holyfield had already left the gymnasium early on and did not witness the incident. I’m sure he did not need to be reminded of his last bout with Mike Tyson when the former champ took a chunk of his ear in 1997.

Shynaliyev, who angrily showed the blood on his shoulder to the referee, led 12-6 at the time. Kurbanov had already received multiple warnings from the referee earlier for shoving and holding his opponent.

It was a bad ending for Kurbanov who got off to an auspicious start in Beijing last week after beating world champion Abbos Atoev in his first bout. He was also the middleweight won champion in the 2005 Asian championships.

This biting thing in boxing should not become a normal event in competition as it may usher in a new trend that could make the sport even more gory than it already is.

Failure of a marriage can be one of the most traumatic experiences any family can go through. As such, it is imperative than any legal battle concerning divorce or family should be resolved at the soonest possible time to minimize any collateral damage. The sooner that this type of conflict is resolved the better. It is only upon completion that the difficult part of healing can begin.

In Oklahoma, one of the best in handling this type of legal conflicts is the law offices of Lawrence Goodwin. Lawrence Goodwin’s experience and expertise can assure financial security and precious time with your children in battles involving divorce or any other legal conflict in the family. This legal champion is well-versed with Oklahoma Divorce Law that you get assurance of the best representation during this most difficult chapter in your life. He likewise handles any legal battle involving Oklahoma Family Law and other types of legal representation. Should you need an Oklahoma Divorce Attorney, contact Lawrence Goodwin at www.okcdivorcelaw.com and give this challenge the best fight in your life.

Michael Phelps has now been dubbed the greatest Olympian of all time after eclipsing Mark Spitz’s 7 golds in a single Olympics with his 8th gold in Beijing in the 4 x 100 medley relay. Again, it was Jason Lezak who made sure that Phelps made his goal as he anchored the final leg, keeping the lead that Phelps had given him.

Though the Americans had never lost the event, it was not a piece of cake as the team came in third behind Japan and Australia when Phelps jumped in for the third leg. However, Phelps overtook both teams as he used the same stroke and distance he used in his 7th gold. He passed the lead to Lezak in the anchor leg and despite Australia’s attempt to spoil Phelps’ record, the Americans will not be denied this honor. The Americans broke the world record again with Lezak touching in at 3 minutes and 29.34 seconds.

After the win, Phelps hugged all his teammates, thanking them for the support they had given him. “Without the help of my teammates, it wouldn’t have been possible,” he said. Out of his 8 golds, 3 were from relays that he was a part of. Phelps set seven world records and one Olympic record, doing a personal best time in every event. While competitors ganged up on him and spewed out challenges that would faze normal athletes, Phelps kept cool and responded to them by doing his best in the pool.

He ran up to his Mom and sisters and gave each one a hug and a kiss. His mother hugged him tighter with tears streaming down her face. It was every mother’s dream — to raise a son who would conquer every challenge in his life head on and triumph by etching his name in history as the greatest Olympian yet. He not only holds the record for the most golds in a single Olympics, but he is also the Olympian with the most career golds at 14, 5 more than any other Olympian in history — and he has one more Games to go.

After receiving his eighth gold, they cranked up the American flag and the Star Spangled Banner. Phelps looked up to his Mom and sisters and finally gave in following days of challenges and pressure — he broke down and cried.

The thing that can make life a real pain is boredom. It can even turn some people’s lives into a mess when they find hobbies or diversions that cause more trouble than they are worth. If you’re bored, just try to remember to stay with activities that are productive and one that can improve your life rather than those that degrade it.

After my Mom’s retirement, she had to find alternative activities to keep her active. Aside from cooking, she found bingo a fun way to meet other people and pass away the time. It has even gained her a additional income after winning jackpots a couple of times. For most senior citizens, bingo has been a savior. They meet people their age and stay away from depression and idleness. Now, there is a way to play it without leaving your home.

Online Bingo is now available at bet365.com. And if you’re worried that you might lose money playing, they have Bingo Offers that will allow you to play for free. You can play for free for £1,000 guaranteed from Monday to Thursday, 8pm until 9pm in the Island Hopper Room. So, join now and play Bingo at bet365 and you might just get a lucky streak.

Michael Phelps delivered an unforgettable race at the Water Cube for the 100 meter butterfly. The audience was barely breathing when he turned for the final 50 meters at 7th place. He then shovel-kicked his way to victory by a hair. Phelps won the gold and broke the world record with a time of 50.58 seconds while Serbian Milorad Cavic got silver with 50.59 seconds.

The American audience was ecstatic when the computer registered the time. It was impossible to tell with the naked eye who won the race. Thus, the Serbians later protested the results which led to FINA reviewing the replay and slowing the final second frame by frame. The video and timing system did confirm that Phelps won the race by an eyelash. Even the Serbians relented after seeing the frame by frame video. The race was so close it seems that the American swimming sensation has God’s attention in the Olympics.

The win puts him one gold away from Olympic history. Sunday’s 4×100 medley relay will decide his fate. The Americans have never lost this event and are favored to win. Over-confidence has a way of creeping up on you when you least expect it. And God sometimes has a weird sense of humor. Whatever happens now, Phelps has proven that he is a fighter and a winner. The last gold would simply be icing on the cake. Good luck kid!

Here’s a video of the 100 meter butterfly race between Phelps and Cavic. Amazing race!

Looks like the Sproutwells are back. This time, they introduce a new member of the family — Phyto the dog. My favorite in this animation series of the sproutwells is the nosy neighbor. The neighbor is the comic relief in the series. She seems to have the knack for always getting wet.

The Sproutwells is brought to us by FreshFunds.com, makers of healthy snacks Chiquita and Fresh Express. Together with the creation of the Sproutwells, the Fresh Funds Program was established to encourage everyone to choose healthy snacking instead of the fatty chips and snacks we have gotten used to feasting on. Become a Fresh Funds member and start earning points. With more points, you get a chance to bid on a Nintendo Wii.

First, enjoy the new Sproutwells video with their new pet Phyto.

Michael Phelps won his sixth gold in the Beijing Olympics in the 200 meter individual medley. What is more critical is that he is on the brink of matching Spitz’s record of 7 gold medals in a single Olympics. And then another to break it. As a matter of fact, Phelps has already made records by being the Olympian with the most number of career gold medals at 12. Yet, he is still swimming as if he has not made his mark in sports history.

His next two races are important, the 100 meter butterfly and the 400 meter medley. The 100 meter butterfly is his signature stroke, so it is likely that he will be able to match Spitz’s record. The last race will be the one that makes or breaks his place in Olympic history.

My money is on Phelps breaking the record. Good luck Mike!

We all have a way of surviving stress or bouts of loneliness. I get all weird during these times. But it’s not really unusual. It happens to everyone. In Reader’s Digest‘s website, they currently featured an article about the quirks that some people reported that they have habitually adopted. It answers the question “Are You Normal or Nuts?” These were also consulted with psychologists to determine whether such quirks require consultation or therapy. It’s fun reading these quirks, especially when you see some of them in you. Some do require consultation. However, some are normal nutty behavior that help us cope with the difficulties in life. Without these, we can develop more severe psychological problems.

Among those in the list featured by RD.com, my favorites are the shopaholic and the one who never replaces a personal item until it’s too worn out to be used. They are exact opposites, but they are both reflections of people trying to get through with insecurities or personal problems. I identify myself more with the shopaholic. I have a tendency to walk through the mall aimlessly when I am troubled. The difference is that I tend to buy things for other people more than myself. Upon reflection, I believe it shows my low self-esteem and how I place value in myself only when I am able to take care of other people. I think I don’t believe that I deserve anything for myself unless I am able to take care of those around me. I call it my superwoman complex. But I tell I myself I’m still sane unless I start wearing a 2-piece swim suit with a cape and a pair of knee-high boots. In that case, I have to avoid high rise buildings like the person in the article who fears heights because she might jump.

It’s fun going through the article. I encourage you to read it and find out — Are You Normal or Nuts? As for me, I just found out I am indeed dysfunctional, just like everyone else.

Lotus Domino Access will soon be available for the IPhone. It is planned for release within the year and marketed as IBM Lotus INotes. Users can access their emails, contacts, and calendar through their IPhones. You will never miss another email from the office again — this time it fits right into your hand with the touchscreen experience of your IPhone.

I don’t really feel like this is a good thing for most employees. It’s obviously bringing your work with you anywhere. When the boss knows you’ve got your Lotus Notes right in your phone, there is no excuse for not answering an email or sending information or data through it. Like the ad for the software says, it’s “bringing the enterprise to your Apple IPhone.” The world is working too hard as it is. We have forgotten to stop and smell the roses. We spend more time in front of the computer or our mobile phones than playing with our kids. Meanwhile, the kids follow our example and stuff their ears with their IPod earphones and stop listening to their parents.

Anyway, my Lotus Notes is one application I don’t want to be carrying around with me wherever I go. But for most people, they feel it is a convenience that IBM and Apple has gifted them with. So, for the workaholics out there, below are some planned screenshots for the Lotus INotes. These are just planned shots and the final software may actually look different. Enjoy. . .