Simple Living

My New Fountain Pen: Platinum Century 3776 in Chartres Blue I recently picked up my third fountain pen: the Platinum Century 3776 in Chartres Blue (Fine Point). There are plenty of reviews available, so instead of a full review, I’d like to share why I chose the 3776 as my first “nice” pen. Why the Platinum Century 3776? After enjoying both the Pilot Varsity and Metropolitan, I felt ready to invest in a higher-quality pen for a better writing experience and deeper understanding of fountain pens. The 3776 stood out as an excellent choice for me. Priced at $67 from Amazon, with an additional $8 for the ink converter, it's a significant step up, but the cost is manageable. I had considered a pen in the $30–$40 range, but an extra $20 for the 3776 seemed worth it for the quality and craftsmanship. First Impressions Upon receiving the pen, I immediately filled it with Iroshizuku Kon-Peki Ink. The initial lines were a bit scratchy and thin, but after some time for the ink to saturate the...

First Impressions of Iroshizuku Ink: Cerulean Blue (Kon-Peki) I finally received my first bottle of Iroshizuku Ink in Cerulean Blue (Kon-Peki), a popular choice that many have raved about online. After loading it into my Pilot Metropolitan Fine Point, I was able to write some lines, and I can already see why this ink has garnered such acclaim. While it's still early to determine if this will become my "signature ink," it's definitely shaping up to be a color I'll use quite regularly. Mishap with the Bottle Cap Unfortunately, there was a mishap during shipping: the flimsy plastic bottle cap fractured, causing some ink to leak all over the inside of the shipping package. I managed to seal the fracture with tape, but I'll likely need to transfer the remaining ink to another container. It's a pity to encounter this issue, especially since I’m learning that the plastic cap is a common flaw with Iroshizuku Ink and doesn’t hold up very well.

Evolving Perception of Scotch Whisky What a difference a year can make in my perception of Scotch whisky. I was barreling toward single malts only to be disappointed by a very bad bottle of Macallan 12-year-old. Now, I find myself hurtling back to blends. Exploring Blended Whiskies While I tried various blends, none seemed suitable beyond Johnnie Walker Red or Black. I was tempted to move toward Green Label, but online reviews mentioned that the older, discontinued variation of Green Label was limited to just four single malts that defined this Johnnie Walker version. In other words, I missed the party on that one. To ensure some variety in my collection, I opted for Monkey Shoulder, a blend of three whiskies: Glenfiddich Balvenie Kinivie I am familiar with Glenfiddich and Balvenie, but I was mostly unimpressed by Glenfiddich until I tried mixing it with other whiskies. This led me to become interested in Monkey Shoulder. I don't know much about Kinivie, other than that all three w...

Weekend Vacation in San Diego I flew down to San Diego for a weekend vacation. I didn’t do much, which was the point of a true vacation. Accommodation and Amenities The hotel had Starbucks in the room and an In-N-Out Burger down the road, making it convenient for a quick bite or a morning coffee. Evening Relaxation In the evenings, I enjoyed a tall glass of beer, which added to the relaxation of the trip. Overall, it was a fantastic weekend, and then it was back to the bustle of work.

Review of the Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen Contents Pen Pen Display Case (Clear Plastic Top Cover) Con-20 Style Converter One (1) Blue/Black Ink Cartridge Nib Style Options Fine (F) or Medium (M) Color / Model Numbers Classic Black MRFC1BLKFBLKP (F) MRFC1BLKMBLKP (M) Gold MRFC1BLKFGLDP (F) MRFC1BLKMGLDP (M) Silver MRFC1BLKFSLVP (F) MRFC1BLKMSLVP (M) Retro Pop Green / Marble Red / Wave Orange / Flower Purple / Ellipse Grey / Hound Tooth Turquoise / Polka Dots Animal Print Purple / Leopard White / Tiger Black / Crocodile Gold / Lizard Silver / Python Initial Impressions My Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen (Fine Point) arrived from Amazon, and it is a beautiful writing instrument. The online reviews accurately describe it as an excellent starter pen. The immediate sense of quality is apparent just by holding it. There is a certain weight and heft that exudes quality, making the overall look and feel best experienced through actual use. For $13, this is a phenomenal deal. It even comes w...

Exploring the World of Fountain Pens I've become interested in fountain pens and spent a few weeks researching online to develop a plan for approaching this newfound hobby. My goal is to invest in about half a dozen pens over a period of sixteen months and hopefully acquire a decent level of knowledge and experience in using and maintaining fountain pens. I also aim to develop some degree of penmanship. 1. Practice Phase (Pilot Varsity, Pilot Metropolitan) - 2016 (1 Month) Having absolutely zero experience using a fountain pen, I am starting small with some Pilot Varsity and Metropolitan pens. Pilot Varsity - October 2016 Online, there have been many rave reviews about the basic $3 Pilot Varsity or Platinum Preppy, and I was okay getting either one. My local office store had the Varsity in stock, and I picked up a pair to begin writing. The selection was limited; they had only Medium Point in Purple Ink (other choices were Red or Pink). Pilot Metropolitan - October 2016 I went ah...

A Reminder of Hard Work Everyone needs a reminder that hard work pays off, and this year has been an eventful one. To commemorate and cap off 2016, I'm adding a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label to my modest whisky collection. It will sit front and center next to my JW Black and Red Label as a constant reminder that I have achieved quite a bit in life, but I have much more to accomplish before I feel satisfied. Setting Goals I have set some goals in life, and perhaps in five years on New Year's Eve, I'll crack open this little gem to celebrate. Until then, I'll just glance at it each time I pass by my liquor cabinet to remind me that I have a lot of work ahead of me.

G-Shock Preferences and Favorites After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size . Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. Size Preference: DW-5600 Series For overall size, the DW-5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It’s slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear. Best Compromise: G9000 Mudman Series If I had to choose a balanced option between size, comfort, and functionality, the G9000 Mudman series would be it. The buttons are slightly tough to press, but the layout and form factor resonate with what I prefer in a G-Shock. Despite having different module versions (GLX, G, and DW), I find that these models offe...

New Addition: Casio G-Shock Mudman G-9000MS-1 First Impressions Recently, I picked up a Casio G-Shock Mudman G-9000MS-1 in black, part of Casio’s Military-Inspired Series . This model runs on the 3031 Module and feels similar to a round version of the classic 5600. Though slightly larger than the 5600, it’s notably smaller compared to the bulkier 6900. Build and Comfort After just a few hours with it, I'm finding the Mudman quite enjoyable. The buttons are a bit tough to push , which seems typical for the Mudman’s rugged design but is still something to adapt to. Out of the G-Shocks I’ve tried so far, this one is quickly becoming a favorite—almost on par with the 5600 series. Display Concerns One thing that stands out is the negative LCD display . It can be challenging to read under certain lighting, so I may eventually switch to a standard G9000 model. However, I do appreciate the all-black bezel and strap on this version and would look to keep that look if I end up swapping pa...

Godiva's Hazelnut Trufflelata and a G-Shock Hunt Coffee Break: A Twist on the Usual This weekend, I found myself at a new upscale mall , and while it looked sleek and stylish, there was no Starbucks in sight. Instead, I decided to try Godiva’s Hazelnut Trufflelata for my coffee fix. It was definitely a departure from my usual cup of coffee, but an interesting one. Mall Impressions and the G-Shock Search Despite the mall's modern look, it lacked the basic stores I typically gravitate toward. I was especially hoping to find a shop with a decent Casio G-Shock selection on display—specifically, either a black GW-M5610 or a Mudman G9000 . Unfortunately, my search came up empty. A Different Solution After a while, I settled near the fountain area and decided to turn to Amazon. A quick order later, I had secured a Black Military Series Mudman G9000MS-1CR . Not quite the in-person experience I’d hoped for, but sometimes, online shopping just gets the job done.

Weekend Getaway on the Big Island at Hilton Waikoloa Resort Returning to Familiar Grounds This weekend took me back to the Hilton Waikoloa Resort on the Big Island, a place I hadn’t visited since childhood. Walking through the resort stirred up memories of running around as a kid, although now, I’m picking up on details I hadn’t noticed before. While the place hasn’t changed much, experiencing it as an adult offered a new perspective. Things to Know The Big Island offers a slower pace, with limited activities after dark. After sunset, the main options are winding down in your hotel room or catching a movie. A tip for future visitors: hitting up a local grocery store before heading to the resort can save you quite a bit, as food prices within the resort can be steep—though I was pleasantly surprised that a cup of coffee was reasonably priced at $4.50. Staying in the Makai Lagoon Tower I stayed in the Makai Lagoon Tower , which I’d recommend for its convenience. This resort is quite exp...

Rolex Explorer I with the Red/Black Hirsch Robby Performance Strap First Impressions Swapping the original bracelet of my Rolex Explorer I for a 20mm Red/Black Hirsch Robby Performance Strap turned out to be a great decision. The fit is snug, with only a bit of chafing at the middle edge, but overall, it wears comfortably. The red and black color scheme complements the Explorer’s minimalist design while adding a modern, sporty touch to the look. On-Wrist Feel Wearing the Explorer with this new strap has been surprisingly comfortable, to the point where I almost forget it's on my wrist. The performance-focused construction of the Hirsch strap offers enough flexibility and ventilation to feel light and unobtrusive throughout the day. Future Plans Given how well this strap pairs with the Rolex, I’m considering picking up another Hirsch Robby strap in Black/Blue for my Omega. This would complete a versatile pair of watches, each with straps that enhance both form and function. ...

My 2016 Toyota Highlander: Years of Reliable Service Initial Purchase and Why I Chose the Highlander I bought my 2016 Toyota Highlander brand new for $31,000, aiming for a vehicle that could offer both performance and reliability over the years. I chose the V6 engine model primarily because of Toyota’s reputation for this engine’s durability and balance of power and fuel economy.  If there had been a similar option for my 2015 Camry, I’d have chosen it as well, but the Highlander offered everything I needed in a daily-use vehicle. Specs and Performance 2016 Highlander V6 LE FWD Engine : 3.5L V6 - 2GR-FE Horsepower : 270 @ 6200 RPM Torque : 248 lb-ft @ 4700 RPM Transmission : 6-speed automatic Performance : 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds 1/4 mile in 15.2 seconds @ 89 mph Fuel Efficiency : 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway Dimensions : Length: 191.1 inches Wheelbase: 109.8 inches Height: 68.1 inches Width (without mirrors): 75.8 inches Model:  XU50 (3rd Generation) Key Fob Battery: CR2016...

Adding Klipsch R6i Earbuds to My Headphone Collection Why I Chose the R6i To round out my headphone collection, I wanted a reliable pair of earbuds that would perform well for travel and everyday use. I decided on the Klipsch R6i Earbuds after searching for the discontinued S6i model, which was difficult to find at a reasonable price. I also considered going with Bluetooth options like the Jaybirds but wasn’t ready to transition to wireless just yet. The R6i fit my needs with its high-quality sound and practical design. Features and Build Quality The Klipsch R6i’s design includes several small yet thoughtful features. The flat, anti-tangle cable minimizes hassle, especially when stashing them in a pocket or travel bag, and the in-line volume control adds convenience without needing to adjust settings on my phone. They’re lightweight and compact, ideal for travel when I prefer to keep my gear light. Basic Specs Driver Size : 6.5mm Frequency Response : 10Hz – 19,000Hz Sensitivity : 110 d...

Adding Laphroaig 10 to My Scotch Collection First Impressions of Laphroaig 10 Year Old After years of curiosity, I finally added Laphroaig 10 Year Old to my Scotch whisky collection. I first tasted this Islay single malt at a party a few years ago, and the distinctive flavor left an impression that I couldn’t quite forget. Now that I have my own bottle, I’m diving deeper into the world of Islay malts, and my initial pour didn’t disappoint. Discovering the Islay Peat Laphroaig 10 stands out for its signature “peatiness.” This bold flavor profile is quite different from the Speyside or blended whiskies I typically enjoy. While it’s definitely an acquired taste, I find it intriguing and a natural progression in my journey through single malts. The peaty, smoky notes are intense but not overwhelming, adding a depth I hadn’t experienced as strongly in other whisky regions. Expanding My Collection with Islay Malts Although this is my first Islay bottle, I can already tell it won’t be my last...

Whisky Collection Plans for 2016 and Beyond Introduction I'm excited to share my plan for building back up my whisky collection in 2016. After years of indecision, I'm going all-in on learning about my preferences in various Scotch whiskies. This means I will be actively purchasing more bottles to explore the world of whisky. Consumption Rates My overall whisky consumption has been consistent, averaging around 175 mL per week. This is roughly equivalent to a six-pack of lite beer, which is relatively modest. Over the course of a month, this amounts to about 750 mL (or one bottle), and annually translates to approximately 9 liters, equating to 12 bottles. Consumption Ratios (Blends vs. Single Malts) First Half of 2016 : 80% Blends / 20% Single Malts 5 Blended Whiskies 1 Single Malt (Glenfiddich 12) Second Half of 2016 : 50% Blends / 50% Single Malts 3 Blended Whiskies 3 Single Malts The 80/20 ratio turned out to be somewhat dull, allowing me to enjoy only a single bottle of Sing...

Fiio E10K Olympus 2 DAC and Amplifier Introduction I've always been interested in trying a DAC (Digital Audio Converter) and amplifier for my headphones. After some research, I settled on the Fiio E10K Olympus 2. In hindsight, I might have preferred a more portable model that accepts audio line-in, but the E10K proved to be a solid choice when connected to my laptop. I also plan to build a 'soundbook' using my netbook, which adds to its utility. Sound Quality Using the E10K has improved my sound experience in several ways. Certain frequencies are now clearer, allowing me to hear details that were previously subtle. The overall music presentation feels more "forward," enhancing the listening experience. While this initially felt overwhelming, I've started to appreciate the refined soundstage that the E10K provides. One notable observation is how poorly some of my cheaper headphones perform with the E10K. I had hoped that the increased power would improve their ...

Sony MDR-ZX310 Headphones Overview By luck, I stumbled upon a pair of Sony MDR-ZX310 headphones at a thrift shop. I couldn't resist the opportunity to scoop them up, especially since I've heard so many positive reviews online about their performance for the price point of $18. Basic Specifications Driver Size : 30mm Frequency Response : 10 ~ 24,000 Hz Maximum Input Power : 1,000 mW Sensitivity : 98 dB/mW Impedance : 24 Ohms Weight : 125 g Cable Length : 1.2 m I also own the lower-end model, the ZX100, and can compare the two. Sound Quality The ZX310s have a wider response range than the ZX100s, which is particularly noticeable in the bass. While the midrange and treble frequencies are almost identical, the weaker bass of the ZX100s makes the mids and treble feel more pronounced. However, with deeper listening, the ZX310s provide clarity in certain frequencies that the ZX100s lack. If you prefer vocals and mids, the ZX100s might be a better option. Even with EQ bass reduction, t...

Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 On-Ear Headphones Overview I recently realized I haven't discussed my pair of Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 on-ear headphones in detail. I purchased these headphones two years ago at Yodobashi Camera in Shinjuku, Tokyo, for approximately $40 in yen. They are a fun pair and have become one of my favorites. Condition and Issues One downside I encountered is that the plastic housing on the left speaker popped out of place. To fix it, I used Krazy Glue, which has worked well. However, as a result of this issue, the left speaker has lost the ability to swivel, making it less convenient to stash the headphones in my backpack. Basic Specifications Driver Size : 38mm Frequency Response : 10 ~ 23,000 Hz Maximum Input Power : 500 mW Sensitivity : 103 dB/mW Impedance : 36 Ohms Weight : 133 g Cable Length : 1.0 m Overall, despite the minor setback with the swivel mechanism, the Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 headphones continue to deliver a solid performance and remain a valued part...

MCSA 70-463 -- Data Warehouse / SSIS Decision on Certification I have been considering whether to take the 70-411 Windows Server 2012 Administration exam instead of the 70-463 SQL Server 2012 Data Warehouse exam. Since I am not a System Administrator, the 70-411 exam, while interesting, does not align with my professional focus. Although it may be too late to switch, I believe that studying for and passing the 70-463 exam will provide long-term value, especially since I will be working extensively with ETL processes and SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS). First Impressions After opening the book for 70-463, I was immediately drawn in. This book is by far the most interesting of the several I've read from Microsoft. The engaging content made me realize that this book could easily be titled "SSIS" given its focus on the subject. I am excited to dive deeper into this material. Further Exploration In addition to my current studies, I plan to explore Ralph Kimball's b...