Simple Living

With my new iPhone 16 arriving wanted to prepare a comparison to see how it sizes up vs my 14 Pro.  I’m anticipating a slightly lighter, but faster phone.  Although, I maybe sacrificing a bit on the screen based on initial online reviews. But being that I was already happy with the LCD display on an iPhone 11.  I should be more than satisfied with the OLED on the 16. And based on the specs there isn’t much difference between the 14 Pro and standard 16.  My 2 reasons for the 16 is Type-C and lower weight. Initial Review - 16 is good, not amazing. Now that I’ve had my 16 for several days I’m satisfied with the form factor, lighter weight and slightly faster specs. I do miss the better 120 Hz refresh rate of the 14 Pro’s screen, but otherwise for me the base model 16 is a better fit. As iPhone doesn’t have the best cameras to begin with relative to Samsung’s flagship models, it’s not a real concern to forgo the triple cameras of the Pro series. At same time after 2 years, having less adva

Even after 4+ years the Samsung S20 Fan Edition is an impressive Android phone that still holds its own against modern phones, especially budget models like the A32 or A15.  This shows just how overpowered were the specs when they made the S20 FE. Affordable Price You can snag them used for $130-150 on Amazon and they will be in excellent condition.  Perfect as a backup phone or to simply stream videos. The gorgeous screen, still fast processor and sizable battery gives this the best of many worlds and almost captures the reason why people love the iPhone.  You don’t need the blazing best new features, but with the right combination you have an amazing device. S20 FE vs A32 - Beautiful Screen I’m comparing it to my A32 I use for streaming and honestly the AMOLED screen of the S20 FE is beautiful.  I may swap to this as my streaming device. S20 FE vs A15 - Faster Specs While the A15 has a comparable AMOLED display, it’s weak processor and lack of sufficient RAM handicapped that otherwis

There is a niche that only the classic lines of the Adidas Stan Smith can fill.  Its similarities with many higher end white leather shoes like the Common Projects is unmistakable and when on sale for $55 it’s a bargain. Form Factor - Adidas Wins Nike has yet to offer a comparable shoe.  And while I’ve been disappointed in the past with the quality of more recent Adidas sneakers, there is something about the Stan Smith that makes me willing to snag another pair. Sometimes I prefer the chunky Air Force 1, or the vibrant colorway of Jordan 1’s.  But sometimes all I need are understated classics. Quality of Build - Nike Sadly, I can tell these are cheaply made shoes.  The quality of Stan Smiths in 2024 has declined vs a pair I owned in 2021. But for the price, they do the trick and helped me understand where I want to go in 2025 with a pair of Common Projects.

Had 4 days off and went to Houston for a road trip.  Ate at Bori K-BBQ and stayed at the Woodland Resort.  Was a pleasant and chill experience. Bori K-BBQ - Amazing! Hilton Woodland Resort - Phenomenal Sushi Masa - Meh. ok. Bori was excellent and highlight of the trip.  It’s a very upscale place and food was some of the best I’ve had in a while. Other restaurants were average by comparison and I ended up sticking to hotel food, although a bit pricey was convenient and actually decent. Doing nothing and just relaxing made this a fun break.  Taking it slow and just soaking it all in.  As a result, I didn’t have my phone and failed to take more pics. 1. Bori - BBQ - Amazing! I went during lunch and the food was delicious and reasonably priced.  I forgot to take a pic of the Kalbi and that was one of the most flavorful dishes, but the beef tartare was also amazing. 2. Hilton Woodland Resort - Phenomenal Harrison for breakfast buffet was okay.  It’s conveniently located so acceptable.  I di