Don't Back Down

Even though I built an automatic function into MT-Approval (to handle the updating of Context.pm), I wasn't happy with the way it worked. For starters, I hate changing the actual code of Movable Type. The reason for this is mostly because if that code is upgraded to a new version, the install often has to be repeated. I know of at least one MT-Approval user who ran into this problem.

So after thinking on it for a while, I've come up with a way around this problem. Instead of using the installation routine in MT-Approval, you can now use a global filter on the MTCommentFields tag itself.

Read "MT-Approval 1.1.0" »

Up until recently, I've been using screenit to get the scoop on movies, so that I have at least a reasonable idea if it's a good idea for the kids to see it, without having to actually sit through it myself. And for an in-depth review that you don't mind digging to find, I'd still recommend the service.

But for a more generalized service that can be used quickly and easily (and without a whole bunch of effort), I've instead taken to using Current Attractions, which not only loads faster, but is a whole lot easier on the eyes.

Now don't get me wrong. I'm not a big proponent of flash, and I truly believe that Content is King®. Just look around. Even if my content isn't particularly good, it should be obvious that I'm not fancy by any stretch of the imagination.

But in this case, a little glitz is good. I find that the site is much easier to use than screenit, and the information given is a great overview, giving a quick look at a summary of the content in a given movie, and then you can view the details if interested.

I won't get into anything really deep here. Just a thought that came to mind. I regularly - or as regularly as possible - attend the Baptist Men's breakfast at our church. Typically held once a month, I've made it to probably 5 of the 7 or so held since we joined our church, and I always enjoy the experience. For a long time I didn't especially enjoy this sort of thing, and I still don't like it enough to do it daily - but once a month is great. In fact, I enjoy it so much that I have recently joined a smaller group of men who meet (sort of) once a week for breakfast, and that's nice as well.

So the idea of the fellowship, and specifically the thoughts and prayers and feelings that come out of the meeting, is, well, awesome. I really do enjoy it. So I can see the sense in making this happen with more regularity. I can extend the vision and see that everyone should enjoy it. Not just men, not just women, but everyone. The simple fellowship and camaraderie that comes out is well worth the effort. Seeing someone doing this on a grand scale is comforting.

What I don't get is the cost. $22? I'm sure the music and the message are great. I'm sure the food is good. But come on now. Our monthly men's breakfasts are $3 each (if you have it to donate). Typically I spend maybe $5 when we go out each week. And I understand that this event is yearly, so perhaps $22 isn't that bad in comparison. But still - if I'm paying $22 for something, it's more of an event. That is to say, a spectator event. A sport if you will. I understand that pro sports will cost far more than that, but the principle is the same.

I think it's safe to say that, tradition or not, quality or not, I won't be attending.