Light and Mobile

I realized that my laptop was heavy, during one of those runs from a gate to a different gate at the airport (with the laptop in my backpack, and a garment bag in my hand). Given that I run between gates quite a bit, I decided to get a Netbook. I configured a good one on Dell and got it a couple of weeks back. I also decided that I did not want to install any software on it. I signed up for Google Docs to avoid the heavy footprint of MS Office on the Netbook. Since I use an air card all the time I am traveling, I figured I did not need Outlook on the Netbook. It has worked out extremely well so far. The Netbook is surprisingly fast and the keyboard is not at all bad for a 10.1" screen. I am getting very comfortable with it.

Shazam

Desert Rose, by Sting - a number that I have heard several times in the past, but did not know who sang it (I really don't know much beyond Bollywood music). I could not get the lyrics to search on the web either. It was a song that I wanted. So, here I was, checking in at the Sheraton right next to LAX two nights back. And this number started playing in the lobby. I immediately started the Shazam app on my iPhone. I wasn't too hopeful, as there was a lot of background noise and the song wasn't being played loud either. But to my surprise, Shazam got it! And I bought the song off iTunes right there. It was the first time I used the latest version of Shazam. The previous version had failed in cases with background noise. But I think they have a cool tool now. Two thumbs up!

Disney World

My brother was planning a trip to Orlando with his family. My son loved the idea of visiting Magic Kingdom again (he was here last Christmas). So, we decided that he and I would come down to Orlando for three days. My wife decided to join us for two days.

Unlike my last couple of visits to Disney World (which were single-day trips), this one has been more relaxed. I have been able to stop, look and appreciate a lot of the shows, rides and attractions. I spent a day each at the Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. This place is truly magical and I really cannot think of anything even remotely similar to these theme parks. I loved the parades and the fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom. These were truly amazing! My son loved this whole experience so much, that I decided to extend my stay here till the end of this week. I have been trying to balance my conference calls with the time I spend in the theme parks! I plan on taking him to the Magic Kingdom one more time tomorrow, before we head back home on Saturday.