Lost playgrounds and new toys
I have been so lazy updating the blog that I put my twitter feed in the sidebar. In case you discovered it, you're probably aware of my terrible loss of internet.
Making a very long story short: I lost internet access a few days ago, and after about 24 hours without being able to access BBC's health and lifestyle tips on managing weight I was lying in the bed shaking from severe withdrawal symptoms. I skimmed through system logs and googled the contents on my iPhone while waiting for the support to answer my emails. I eventually discovered that the error pertained to server side of the DHCP transaction. [Lots of boring and technical stuff that nobody would read anyway]
I decided to quit using Windows, and get myself a new computer. Who wants a computer that hangs up the DHCP server and hinders me from surfing tasteless sing along songs on murdered politicians (Kudos to Sverigedemokraterna (SD) for this one).
I went to the Apple Store in Manchester Arndale. (And yes, that's a Disney Store next to it.)

I knew what to buy. Since the new iMacs were introduced with insane prices I aimed for a MacBook; and being geek I wanted a MacBook Pro, just like my Newcastle mate. However, I consulted a member of staff before buying anything, as I had some questions about migrating from obsolete Windows to gorgeous Mac OS X. He asked me what I'd be using the computer for. 'I'm a student, so presumably writing, surfing, and reading journal articles'. He thought I'd be a lot better off with a 13" regular MacBook. I've never had such a small screen, so I immediately rejected the idea.
Half an hour later, we'd established that the cheapest MacBook Pro held essentially the same components inside as the priciest regular MacBook, and that it was considerably easier to 'carry around campus', bring on a flight or take to the local Starbucks. I also had a 14 days return policy if I wasn't satisfied with the purchase. I was convinced.
Upon breaking the news of me buying my first Mac, a dear friend simply replied "Enjoy the longest bus ride of your life", and I did - not enjoy it, but rather endure it. I looked suspiciously on people around me with the eyes of a caveman or security professional: 'Who is most likely to try snatching my expensive catch with the pretty Apple logo?'. But I made it home safe.
Unboxing the MacBook was like being a five year old on christmas eve - just a bit more careful. Hopefully five year olds spend their time playing with other kids outside rather than sitting by computers all day (Microsoft thinks otherwise, but they're evil).
Anyway, I'll continue playing with my new toy now. More updates will follow.
