Simple Living

Evaluating New Linux Distros for My Revived Rig Out with the Old: Lubuntu 17.10 I’m evaluating new Linux distros for my revived Linux rig. The old Lubuntu 17.10 was fantastic but has become obsolete. I was unimpressed with Lubuntu 20.04 LTS, as it seems the mindset of Linux has evolved to accommodate increasingly more powerful computers. Now, a minimum of a dual-core CPU and 2 GB of RAM is required. The HP i3-4010u with 8 GB of RAM is just slightly above those minimum standards. 1. Lubuntu 20.04 LTS I’ve been a longtime Lubuntu user and fan. My absolute favorite has been Lubuntu 17, followed by 18.04 LTS, so I was expecting the same experience with 20.04. However, I was disappointed. The system felt laggy and unresponsive, coming off as bloated. It took 15 seconds for Firefox to open, and the loading of pages took even longer. I found this unacceptable, especially considering that Lubuntu 17 was lightning fast on the same machine with less RAM. Ultimately, I threw in the towel and inst

Overview of My HP 15f-10dx Why a Cheap Laptop? I've owned several laptops in my lifetime, and the HP 15f-010dx was a budget choice at around $399 back in 2014. I never really spent much on laptops, as I wasn't into gaming or anything computationally intensive. However, I found Windows 8 to be horrible on this slow machine. The i3-4010u CPU was sufficient for my needs, but the operating system felt sluggish. The main feature going for it was the 'touchscreen,' which surprisingly turned out to be very useful. Specs CPU: i3-4010u RAM: 8 GB (original factory was 4 GB) Storage: 500 GB HDD (upgraded to 256 GB SSD) OS: Windows 8.1 (swapped to Linux Mint) How to Enter BIOS To access the BIOS, start the laptop and immediately click the ESC key. This will show the Boot Up Menu, and you can press F10 to enter BIOS. Battery Drain When Powered Off The battery drain I experienced is not due to the Linux OS but likely a setting in the BIOS. I've been testing by disabling boo

Overview of Adidas Stan Smiths I recently picked up a pair of Adidas Stan Smiths for under $40, and after a full week of wear, I'm quite pleased with them. They have a thick leather upper and tongue, paired with a rubber sole, giving them a classic look that feels reminiscent of oxford dress shoes. Although I'm still breaking them in, I can already tell these shoes have a lot of potential. Sizing I opted for a size 9.5, and while they are snug, I anticipate that they will stretch out a bit, making them perfect for me. If you plan to wear them infrequently, consider sizing up, as breaking them in can take some time. Most people recommend going up a size for Stan Smiths, which I usually do, especially since my right foot is slightly wider. Style These shoes are a timeless classic with a sleek profile that fits almost any outfit. They have a narrower profile similar to Converse All-Stars but are easier to slip on than chunkier options like Adidas Superstars. They also serve as a g

Comparing Adidas Stan Smith and Superstar When it comes to classic Adidas shoes, the Stan Smith and Superstar are two popular contenders. While both have roots in sports—tennis for the Stan Smith and basketball for the Superstar—they've largely transitioned to fashion staples. Below, I’ll compare and rate these shoes across several categories. Style Stan Smith: Both shoes are casual and versatile, complementing most outfits. The Stan Smith pairs well with slimmer or regular-cut clothing, making it a great match for shorts. In contrast, the Superstar feels chunkier and tends to suit baggier styles, particularly jeans. Comfort Superstar: The plush inner lining of the Superstars makes them incredibly comfortable. They broke in quickly, requiring only a day of wear. The Stan Smiths, however, have been a different story; they’re still causing some discomfort after a week, particularly on my right foot. For longer outings or standing for extended periods, I’d definitely choose the Supers

My Watch Trinity for 2021 In 2021, my watch collection centers around three key pieces: a chronograph, a field watch, and a smartwatch. While I own watches with more prestigious backgrounds, these three have consistently captured my wrist time and will be my go-to options for the foreseeable future. Key Features of My Watch Trinity Chronograph This watch combines functionality with style, offering the classic features of a chronograph along with a timeless design. It’s perfect for those moments when I need precision timing, whether it’s timing an event or simply appreciating its aesthetic. Field Watch Known for its rugged durability and practicality, the field watch is versatile enough for outdoor adventures and everyday wear. Its clean dial and readability make it an ideal companion for both casual outings and more demanding environments. Smartwatch This piece brings technology to my collection, providing notifications, fitness tracking, and other modern features that enhance my daily

Review: Malibu Rum Black While it may not be a true Cuba Libre (Rum and Coke) due to the lack of garnish, Malibu Rum Black has proven to be a decent option. The coconut flavor is quite pronounced, making it enjoyable both on the rocks and mixed with cola. A suggested ratio of one part cola to two parts rum works well, adding a nice balance to the drink. Purchase Experience I picked up Malibu Rum Black for $10, a steal for a spirit. Though I'm generally partial to dark rums from Bacardi, I found Malibu to be a reasonable alternative. A Bit of History It's interesting to note that Malibu Rum is technically not a true rum; it’s more of a liqueur with rum. Originally marketed as Coco Rico, the brand was revived by the inventor of Bailey’s, who rebranded it as Malibu. Update: 2/14/21 I've been enjoying Malibu Rum on the rocks lately. Its sweetness is quite noticeable, which makes it a bit indulgent. Interestingly, I find that a dram of whisky is even more appealing after having

Review: Armani AR0585 Chronograph on Leather Strap There’s something timeless about a chronograph on a good leather strap, and the Armani AR0585 is no exception. While this watch originally comes on a heavy steel bracelet that can be tough to wear for extended periods, switching to a leather strap transforms the experience. Comfort and Wearability The weight of the AR0585 can be cumbersome, especially with the solid bracelet that lacks micro-adjustments, making it challenging to find the perfect fit. However, once I switched to a leather strap, many of those issues were alleviated. The leather not only lightens the overall feel but also adds a level of comfort that makes it much easier to wear for longer periods. Aesthetic Appeal Switching to a leather strap gives the Armani a strikingly good look, resembling more of an aviator-style flieger watch. This change enhances its versatility, allowing it to pair beautifully with various outfits, from casual to slightly more formal. Nostalgia

Exploring New Whiskies: A Gift from a Friend It’s always a pleasure to receive thoughtful gifts, especially when they introduce me to new flavors in whisky. Recently, a friend surprised me with a box set featuring three intriguing whiskies that cater to my preference for peaty malts. Here’s a closer look at the offerings: The Whisky Lineup Caol Ila 12 Region: Islay Notes: Known for its role in the Johnnie Walker blend, Caol Ila is celebrated for its smoky profile and subtle sweetness. This whisky often features a blend of peat smoke and light floral notes, making it a great introduction to Islay malts. Clynelish 14 Region: Highland Notes: Another component of the Johnnie Walker blend, Clynelish 14 is recognized for its waxy texture and fruity characteristics. It often presents notes of citrus, honey, and a hint of brine, which can be quite refreshing compared to its peaty counterparts. Talisker 10 Region: Isle of Skye Notes: The first one I opened, Talisker 10, has pleasantly sur

Side-by-Side Comparison: Samsung Galaxy Note 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy S8+ Recently, I acquired a Samsung Galaxy S8+ from a friend who was upgrading their phone. After using it for a few days, I realized that the S8+ could easily replace my older Galaxy Note 4 for streaming movies and overall media consumption. Before I part with the Note 4, I wanted to do a side-by-side comparison to highlight the differences and improvements. Specifications Overview Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Screen: 5.7" AMOLED display Resolution: 1440 x 2560 (1440p) Power/Memory: Snapdragon 805 processor 3 GB RAM 32 GB internal storage MicroSD slot for expandable storage Battery: 3220 mAh Li-Ion Samsung Galaxy S8+ Screen: 6.2" AMOLED display Resolution: 1440 x 2960 Power/Memory: Snapdragon 835 processor 4 GB RAM 64 GB internal storage MicroSD slot for expandable storage Battery: 3500 mAh Li-Ion Comparison Analysis Display The S8+ features a larger and higher-resolution display, which enhances the overall viewing

Troubleshooting PS4 Controller Connection Issues I recently encountered some frustrating issues trying to connect my PS4 controllers, and it took me over a week and three new controllers to figure it out. The real culprit wasn’t the controllers themselves—especially since they were brand new—but rather the USB cable I was using. Here’s a rundown of various troubleshooting steps and a workaround for connecting your PS4 controller without a USB cable. Troubleshooting Steps 1. Basic Connection with USB Cable Connect the Controller: Use a USB cable to connect the controller to the PS4. Press the PS Home Button: With the PS4 turned off, click the PS Home button. If the PS4 turns on, you’re in business! 2. Reset the Controller Locate the Reset Button: Find the small hole on the bottom of the controller, near the L2 button. Press to Reset: Use a paper clip to press and hold the reset button for a few seconds. Then, try the first method again. 3. Power Off the PS4 Turn Off the PS4: Hold

Upgrading to the iPhone 11: A Comprehensive Review I recently made the jump from my iPhone 6s to the iPhone 11 , and I couldn't be happier with the upgrade. I got a special deal and switched over to T-Mobile, which has significantly improved my signal, especially in areas where Verizon struggled, like Las Vegas and parts of my hometown. Here’s a detailed look at my experience with the new device. iPhone 11 Specs Screen: 6.1” (828 x 1792 pixels) ~326 ppi - 60 Hz Processor: A13 Bionic (7 nm) RAM: 4 GB Storage: 64 GB Battery: 3110 mAh Camera: 12 MP / 12 MP Weight: 6.84 oz Port: Lightning iPhone 6s Specs Screen: 4.7” (750 x 1334 pixels) ~326 ppi - 60 Hz Processor: A9 (14 nm) RAM: 2 GB Storage: 32 GB (16 GB on base model) Battery: 1715 mAh Camera: 12 MP Weight: 5.04 oz Port: Lightning Size and Weight Transitioning from the 4.7-inch display of the 6s to the 6.1-inch screen of the 11 is like night and day. The heft of the iPhone 11 at 7 oz compared to the 5 oz of the 6s makes it feel

My Experience with Adidas Superstars: From Daily Wear to Retirement I purchased a pair of Adidas Superstars in June 2019 for an incredible $20 and have been wearing them almost daily for nearly 18 months , especially since the onset of COVID. These shoes have truly been put through the wringer, and while they’ve shown signs of wear, they’ve also demonstrated impressive durability. The Journey of My Superstars Over this time, my Superstars have taken on approximately 3,096 miles (calculated from 18 months at 5 days a week with an average of 8 miles per day). Most of my walks occurred on flat and smooth surfaces—like concrete, tile, wood, and carpet—contributing to their longevity. The wear has mostly been gradual, with the majority of miles covered at a casual pace rather than running. Condition Over Time Despite their continued functionality, my Superstars have definitely seen better days: Cushioning : The soles have lost nearly all their cushioning, which has affected overall comf

My Journey with Sneakers: From Adidas Superstars to Air Force 1s Since my experience with Adidas Superstars and Converse All Stars, I’ve developed a keen interest in keeping my sneakers clean and looking fresh. Transitioning to Air Force 1s has been a delightful upgrade, especially as I learned valuable lessons about sneaker care along the way. Sneaker Care 101 Using the cheaper shoes as practice has proven to be beneficial. Here’s what I’ve found most effective for keeping my white sneakers in pristine condition: Immediate Cleaning : The easiest method is to wipe them down right after each use. Since I typically wear my Air Force 1s on weekends, maintaining this habit has become manageable. Side-by-Side Comparison : I was shocked by how dirty my Adidas Superstars had become when placed next to my fresh-looking Air Force 1s. It highlighted the importance of regular cleaning and care. Embracing Nice Sneakers I’ve truly become hooked on nice sneakers! The comfort and style of the Air Fo

Coffee Choices: Dunkin' vs. McDonald's It's interesting to see how coffee pricing varies between chains, especially when it comes to something as simple as iced beverages. Here’s a breakdown of my recent experience with Dunkin' Donuts and McDonald's: Price Discrepancies At Dunkin' Donuts , I noticed that a regular iced coffee costs more than an iced Americano. It’s surprising since both drinks offer caffeine but have different preparation methods. The iced Americano, made with espresso and cold water, seems like a more economical choice, yet it doesn’t always deliver the flavor I’m looking for. Taste and Value While the iced Americano tastes decent, the price feels a bit steep for what I got. I was in a rush and opted for convenience, but it’s hard to justify spending more when I know I could have gotten something just as satisfying for less. Spoiled by McDonald's I’ve become accustomed to the $1 iced coffee at McDonald’s , which is a game-changer in the cof