Locate a Page on Google
Posted 9:18 AM

LocatePage is tool that allows you to search google and yahoo's search results. Hmm... wait a second, isn't that the same as searching them directly? No. You can search for say "books" and then search *within the first 1000 results* for a subquery.

One of the primary uses, clearly intended by the author, is for finding out the popularity of a given site for a given search term. I think Submit-It used to do this, but they no longer exist, apparently. (Microsoft ran them into the ground, yet another perfectly good internet company ruined by an acquisition.)

For example this site (documentroot.com) is listed in the first couple pages of both Yahoo and Google for the search term "homemade deodorant". A dubious distinction at best.

Labels: deodorant, google, sites

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Good VOIP Bad Washer
Posted 9:53 AM

In October, I wrote that I was planning to use a Broadvoice internet phone, instead of Verizon for my house phone. Also, I got a Splendide combined washer/dryer instead of a traditional one. Here's an update.

The VOIP service is fantastic, unlimited dialing to 21 countries. I just called Switzerland for free about 5 minutes ago.

We have 2 lines, the second one was provided by SIP Phone, for only $40/year. The Broadvoice contract allows me to log in and add a second line, but I had to call them for a password. I use a Uniden dual line phone system which is fluid. Calls come in to Line 1, fail over to Line 2, I can dial out while Yvette is on a call - you name it, it works. I put new phones in the kitchen and dining room - anywhere there's a power outlet, no need to run a line.

Now as to the combined Washer/Dryer. We all enjoyed not having to unload the washer and reload to a dryer. Unfortunately, I had to sell it on craigslist for 30% less than I paid for it. Used the money towards an old-fashioned Frigidaire stackable ($1K new with installation and warranty from Lowes). Sad really, but the capacity was just too small, we needed it to be about double. Also, the dryer, because of some deep design flaw reason, makes some clothing unwearably wrinkled.

WARNING: The Splendide is only useful if you're in an RV, or maybe an apartment in Tokyo. Even in a condo in NY, you're better off with a stackable, just put your luggage in the hall or something.

Labels: voip, washer

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Moon Cosplay
Posted 11:56 PM

Negotiated a good deal with a cosplay manufacturer, and added a selection of costumes for Bleach, Naruto, Sailor Moon, Chobits, Full Metal Alchemist and several more. I'm also putting together another deal in 2 weeks to double the line. Although I'm an anime fan, I've never thought much about cosplay. My wife really gave me the idea. The quality of these costumes are far superior to most of the prepackaged stuff we sell (they're a bit more expensive too).

Costumes are taking over my consciousness since I've started this business. I look at what people wear with more interest. I actually said "nice hat" to a perfect stranger. I never noticed people's hats before.

I'm trying out a press release service on this one. We'll see how it goes. I just broke even last week after all the crazy losses from trying to do Halloween last year and messing up.

Labels: cosplay, costumes

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