Alwin Beikes
I wake up, live my life and go to sleep.

Sorry

It has been a couple of day that I posted something, this because I am really busy with some projects. My first project is a link directory website called Yolinq.nl. I had it online but some problems occurred after a few days and I had to take it down.

YolinQ is for the dutch people and only available in the dutch language. After I took it down I decided to make it even better by adding a translations file for the future Yolinq.com English version.

The New Project

My new project will be amazing! Pictures this: You want to hear some music (anything you like), type it in choose from the results and play. It might not sound that special but what if I tell you that you can share it on most all social networks like Facebook? with a click? or instead of listening to the music you can switch and see if there is a video-clip. You will have to see it to fully understand the beauty of it. The thing that worries me the most is the huge amount of people who are going to use it, because I am convinced that it will be a HIT. If that is the case then I might have to switch or expand the hosting to make it run smooth for everyone. It will be completely free for use! No ads that will popup in your face no tricks or what so ever!

Free is free! with me!

This project has not a real name yet if you want to help me giving it a name then feel free to give me some advice below.

New WordPress Blog Theme

My Second project is creating a new WordPress theme myself for my (this) blog. It is harder then you think, specially when you want it to be exactly as you want. It is ready for about 60% so I still have allot to do before I can install it. Best thing is however, when the theme is done I will give it away for free, for a tweet only.

Most themes I have seen are not real blog themes! and you have to pay for it to. Yes there are some really good themes on the web, but admit 75% of them is useless. My new theme will be a “Real” blog theme. It has 3 columns that are widget ready and totally adjustable to your liking’s, shifting widgets around or placing ads if you like. It features a Video widget and Picture Of the Day Widget.

Also I have created a calender widget. On most blogs calenders are hardly used so I wanted to use it but it has to be special. Take a look at the Preview image and you will see what I mean.

As I said it is not done yet. I still have to adjust the theme colors and the menu and sub-menu still has to be styled better. I just want to show how far the progress is. When the theme is done you will surprised. It might take me a another week or two to get it fully ready and running. I am not even sure if I will keep the red colors, I just go with the flow and see where it leads me.

Wish me luck on this one

Changing the Flooring Itself

If you have ever had to listen to babies , pets or household members making lots of noise when all you wanted was peace & calm , you already know the importance of soundproofing floors . In case you have an older home , you certainly deal with this regularly . In years past , people weren’t as concerned with soundproofing as they are now . Lucky for today’s homeowners , there’s now lots of different options & methods for soundproofing floors .

Installing a new hardwood floor is the best time to think about soundproofing floors . Ask your retailer or contractor about the sound ratings of different species of wood & different manufactured wood flooring materials . Soundproofing floors is much simpler in case you take it in to consideration from the outset .

It is no secret that carpet is much quieter than tile or hardwood . However , since hardwood floors are the most infamous floors for causing annoying echoes & heavy footsteps , here we’ll focus on hardwood floors .

Soundproofing floors is not a complicated idea . You need something between the hard flooring & the remainder of the house to absorb noise . There’s lots of different options for materials to place between the floor & the sub-floor to accomplish this .

Blocking the Noise

Cork is excellent at absorbing noise , & it is being looked at with new interest lately as a more environmentally friendly type of soundproofing your office & home floors . You’ll only need a narrow layer , since cork is a dense substance . This narrow layer will be laid first , then you will install the sub-floor & finally the hardwood .

If you have ever looked up in a school , office building or hospital , you are already familiar with acoustic tiles . These panels were designed to dull echoes , & this is why they are popular in large , open spaces . However , they also make an excellent for soundproofing floors ! Basically install them as you would cork , making allowances for the differences in thickness .

When New Floors Are not an Option

You may have noticed , in actual life or on tv , the odd-looking panels which line the walls of professional recording studios . Usually known as sound-deadening panels , these panels do that . . .deaden all noise . For this reason , they are adaptable for soundproof flooring . They are usually thicker then acoustic tiles , but in case you plan accordingly , you can generate an entirely soundproofed floor with minimal work .

There’s lots of different options for soundproofing floors , with something for every taste & budget . Do your research , & pick which options is best for you . One time the work is done , you’ll get to enjoy a pretty floor without the constant irritation of excess noise .

In case you rent & cannot redo your floors , or if it is not an option for you financially , there’s still steps you can take for soundproofing your floors . In case you value calm over the look of hardwood , think about putting down carpet . Lots of families have a “no shoes” policyowner in their homes . Area rugs offer the same sound-deadening benefits of carpet with the added bonus of being moveable .

This is what I recommend to everyone when they purchase a new computer (or have a custom one build).

RECOMMENDED HARDWARE

• A computer – of course
• An SSD Hard Drive – for OS install
• A secondary SATA Hard Drive -  for Storage
• An external hard drive -  for Backup

RECOMMENDED SOFTWARE

• Antivirus – MS Security Essentials, Avast, AVG, Threatfire Antivirus
• Antispyware – SuperAntispyare and Malwarebytes (they work great together)
• Commodo Firewall (works very well with most antivirus software)

COMPUTER SETUP

• Use an SSD Drive for your main drive – Pricey, smaller capacity, but extremely faster (reading and write speed)
• Use a SATA Hard Drive as your secondary drive – Cheaper, large capacity and faster than older EIDE drives
• Install Windows 7 – Any version and run the Windows Updates
• Install all your required software – MS Office, etc… and run the updates
• Install an antivirus software and update its database
• Install an antispyware software and update its database – I recommend Noadware
• Setup your Email Client such as Outlook, Firebird, etc…
• Install an Imaging software or use Windows Imaging feature (Windows 7)
• Install your External hard Drive
• Format your Secondary SATA hard drive using the NTFS file format
• Install and configure Synctoy
• Configure your Synctoy to sync automatically with your external drive using windows ‘Scheduled Tasks’
• Optimize your pc using a tool like Glary Utilities ‘Glarysoft’
• Create a system image, using either Window’s 7 imaging feature or a stand alone imaging software like Acronis True Image and save that image onto your secondary hard drive
• Create a Recovery CD
• Run the backup manualy to test SyncToy and make sure that both drives (secondary drive and the external drive) have synced and make sure that you see your image on both drives

NOTES

• When you create an image, select full backup so that you will have more than one image created
• Only create an image when making major changes to the computer
• Do not diffragment your SSO hard drive
• You can diffrag your secondary SATA hard drive once in a while
• Store your Recovery CD in a secure place
• Put your Email Client pst file (depending on the Client itself) on the Secondary Hard Drive

Windows Registry – The Windows Registry is a hierarchical database that stores configuration settings and options on Microsoft Windows operating systems. It contains settings for low-level operating system components as well as the applications running on the platform: the kernel, device drivers, services, SAM, user interface and third party applications all make use of the Registry. The registry also provides a means to access counters for profiling system performance. Again, Windows registry is a very complex database of entries, which stores information about everything on a computer – from the hardware configuration of the machine, to the version of the operating system, to application installed on the computer, to user settings.

SSD Hard Drive – The drives use non-volatile NAND flash memory, meaning there are no moving parts. Because there is no actuator arm and read/write head that must seek out data on a platter like on a hard disk drive (HDD), they are faster in reading and, in most cases, writing data.

Memory – The more RAM, the better – on a Windows 7, 32bit, I recommend the maximum amount of RAM that is used 4GB of RAM More then if you put more RAM in Windows 7 – 32bit then it is obsolete it will not be used by the 32bit version. However If you should choose a Windows 7 – 64bit version then you can add more then 4GB of RAM into the Motherboard slots if you have a motherboard that supports that.

My self-build system uses 6 GB of RAM and I can upgrade it to 12 GB of RAM and all is used.

Hard Drive Defragmentation – Recommend only on non-SSD Hard Drives. SSD Hard Drives mayNOT should NOT be Defragged else it will be ruined in no time!

After all this a new world of internet will be opening to you. No more slow computer for years!

My system is running since 2009 and never has let me down neither has it gone slow on me.

You are to good

Sometimes you are more than willing to help out others with problems they have or if they just need your help getting something done.

Of course you know the person and he is a friendly person to. So you decide to help by offering your hand for free. After a while the hand is not enough and they ask you if you could please give them your arm. As good as you are you give your arm to lent a help. However after two more years they think that you can help even more and they do not expect that you ask anything in return for all the free help and work that you have given.

But you decide different and you tell them that you cannot help them any further because it takes up to much time, time that you really need to make a living. However you are still more than willing to help but only if they compensate the extra time that you spend for them to get where they want with a little Money.

The magic happens.

Here is where it happens.

After using the word Money they suddenly see you as a monster and greedy little bastard, and they seem to get some kind of red glowing sparkles in their eyes that only can been seen in a movie directed by Steven Spielberg.

Then suddenly no help is needed anymore because you have used the word money.

The Magic that comes with that word has some advantages.

• You know who your friends are.
• You have learned a lesson in life (again)

Bad part is that you are not willing to help people that quick anymore.

Be rich to yourself and poor to your friends.

A quote by Juvenal (55 AD – 127 AD)

You might think what is this guy on about, but let me tell you something about dogs and how you can communicate better with your dog.

As you might have figured it out I have two dogs (Lissie and Odie) two fine Border Collies. Both dogs are natural born listeners. As long as you have the room for them to run around and let them use all the energy they have, each and everyday then you cannot make a dog more happier-er.

Who’s the Boss? 

Dogs are keeping track of your body language. They way you move your arms, hands, head, eyes, legs even your feet. If you own a dog then you might have noticed it, if you really know your dog inside out. For example, You are sitting on the couch and stand up to get something. The dogs sees that and wants to know what is going on, so he follows you what your next actions are going to be, as he might get a snack from you.

If you look the dog into his or her eyes while doing so, the dog is convinced that you are moving because you are getting or doing something for him  or her.

The doorbell

First of all I think it is the most common problem that dog owners face “The doorbell”. The dog is going berserk when it goes off and knows someone is at the door “LET ME WELCOME THE PERSON THAT MAKES MY BOSS SHOUT AT ME” that is what the dogs thinks. If you have the dog from the beginning that it is most likely that you taught him that behavior.

What happened? How did I caused it? you might think. Well to be honest you have failed giving the dog(s) the correction on their behavior ,on particular moments that are most important. The doorbell rang and you did not take the time to “Talk” to your dog. With talking I mean Talking, not Shouting “Shut Up!”.

But I have no time the doorbell rings and I have to open it!. Really? Do you? Well in a emergency yes but people can wait, you know? It only takes a minute to correct the dog. If it takes longer let others open the door while you talk to your dog! Or let the person know that you be there in a minute.

How to correct the dog

OK, here goes and you can try it. If someone is at the door and the dog is excited and barking like crazy. Just get in front of him and do not say a thing. Just try and get his attention by blocking his view path to the door or the area where the sound is coming from.

At one point (and it could be a brief moment) the dog will look into your eyes, that is the moment you should grab; Raise your hand and snap with your fingers, then  hold your hand like you would say STOP and NO further. You do not have to say anything. If it is not working the first time then wait for the dog to look into your eyes again and do the same thing. until he gets it.

If the dog is not looking into your eyes at any point then use the word HE! to get his attention! Or PSST. to make him look at you!.

Once you get the dogs attention tell him to sit and stay.  SIT! (wait for the dog to sit) the STAY! Once you got the dog where you want to stay make sure he stays whatever happens. When you open the door to let the visitor in, the dog should stay! until you gave the dog permission to move. If the dogs start to move, correct him directly and let the visitor wait. He or she should understand, if not then it is their problem.

You only have to do this until the dog is set to automatic.

• Doorbell rings – Dog Barks – Correct Dog.
• Sit and Stay – Moving means Correct Dog.
• Open door – Dog moving – Correct Dog.
• Visitor walks in – Dog Moves – Correct Dog.
• Visitor stand up and wants to go – Dog reacts – Correct Dog.
• Visitor is gone – Tell dog what a great dog he is.

Also tell your visitors to not pet the dog, the visitor should ignore your dog COMPLETELY (very important). Some dogs jump up against visitors to get attention and telling them how happy they are that they have entered his house. Never allow that a dog jumps up to people. How big or small the dog is does not matter.

Make sure the dog is calm and paying attention to you before you correct him or giving a command.

A dog is a dog, who needs and wants to be told what to do, and not a kid or person who can argue with you. It is however a family member in your house with your rules!.

Be gentle but strict and you can talk with your dog for real.

I might put up some videos to show you some samples if I find the time to do so. Else just keep reminding me this post.

It is hard to explain in text how to do this but I sure hope this piece of information is helping you out. Feel free to ask questions. I gladly will answer them for you.

And one more thing, NEVER EVER hit, kick or ignore your dog. He is your best friend with unconditional love.

Choosing a theme

The choice of a blog theme is very important for the blog that you are running. Cookies or wafers that are marketed in attractive, trendy packets are sold more than those who are sold in dull looking packets. The same analogy applies for a blog theme to. If your blog has a relevant but attractive theme, it is sure to let visitors rooting for your blog. The choice of a good blog theme can also make your blog earn you more money. Why? Well, if you are using a blog as a money-maker, the content of course does make a difference. But if you have a great layout and an amazing blog theme; there is double impact. If your blog ‘looks interesting’ many people will become your subscribers, many of them will bookmark it and come back to check on them. The result, you get repeat traffic, not to mention new traffic; hence more chances to make a lot of money.

The looks are not doing it

Though you might very well want to download the best of blog themes that look colorful and attractive, you should keep in mind three things

1. Do not go for a blog theme simply because it has a lot of features and looks colorful. You should have features that appeal to your audiences and increase their interaction. Your choice of a blog theme should be such that it is simple enough and not too complex. If there are too many buttons, scripts, widgets; the loading speed of your blog will be affected and many people will be turned off by your blog.
2. Go for a theme that is relevant to your blog: The blog theme with an exciting slideshow and amazing color scheme on the top may look attractive to you but if the theme does not befit your ‘travel blog’, for instance; it is better to leave it and take a theme that is more appropriate and relevant.
3. Go for a customized blog theme with a preview option: The blog theme that you download should offer options for you to customize it. For instance, you may decide to put 5 related posts instead of 7 that come along with the blog theme. Most themes do offer a lot of customization’s but it is nice to be sure. Also, always look how the blog theme appears through the ‘preview’ or ‘demo option’

Your choice of a blog theme does make a telling impact on the kind of blog you are running. So make sure you choose something that is going to be a value-added proposition to your readers.

As you might have noticed I just fired up this new blog but my time and experience is from around 2004 when I started on the Internet. My age is 39 and I have done allot of falling and dropping down to get where I am now.

You might think “He has no followers” or why does this guy does not have a Facebook account yet. Well I tell you a secret, I have several Facebook accounts and Twitter accounts. One twitter account is from when twitter just got trending and known in my country, the Netherlands. Sadly enough after a few years I lost the log-in credentials to that account just because the Email account I used for it was lost due to change of internet provider.

I tried to find out what my log-in details were but until now no success. I will keep on trying to get access because my  followers on that account where at least (couple thousand)

Self Taught Experience.

Everything I learned, I learned it by reading books, blogs or from samples and then just doing it my way! When I fail I will simply start over. Combined I am pleased and proud to say that I know more about then the average person that is on the internet.

A quick overview of my specialisms.

• Html, Php, Mysql, Javascript,Flash etc.
• Overall web-designer slicing, drawing and coding it.
• Computer Desktop builder/maintaining Hardware and Software.
• Guitar playing (still learning everyday)
• I am a retired construction worker (yes retired)
• Dog training ( I have 2 Border collies) I will post videos and pictures soon.
• Security guy ( followed a course for that)
• Plastic Processor or Editor (plastic welding)
• I own a little home recording studio, I am a singer (I performed and did gigs)
• Metalworker (with an degree)

As you can see I did allot of things and that list is not even complete by far. What that list means though, is that I can give information or help people with my self learned experiences. I am a very fast learner but I am not an Einstein. Yes, it took me years and years.

What I can offer My Blog readers.

First of all I can help people when they are stuck with something that is within my line of experience. Lets say I posted something about an item or daily item and you want to know more about it or you always wondered how it works or how to get it done. Even if it is not in my list of experiences but it is interesting enough to find out, I will investigate the issue, problem or questions.

What did you learned from this.

I just want to tell you that you can do whatever you want. If you want to get rich and famous then go for it!  I am rich but not famous. I have a beautiful wife and daughter and we have a roof  over our heads. Having that is making me feeling rich.

I hope you understand all my babbling. I also hope you like my blog and that you come back for more. One more thing, I know how to write English and how to make myself clear but sometimes my writing can be confused. I am still learning .

Why do you?

Why are people looking at other peoples post, lives or behaviors on social medias like Facebook & Twitter? You want to learn something or someone, or do you want to share your ideas or just because someone is famous?

Nah most people want to get rich and famous and I don’t blame them ha ha.

Most of those things are just that, but isn’t it strange that people just follow people that they do not know?

I follow my Daughters Twitter account for a logic reason. And I just followed John Chow because I like his blog and want to know more about him.

Ah well, on my “blogging” path I will probably follow more people just because they are following me or when I think “He that person is interesting”.

We will see how many want to see more about me.

Hello people,

I just want to start of with posting a test post to see how my first post looks on this theme. I hope that this theme fits my needs else I have to move on and find a better one. If it does then I start blogging soon so please be patience with me.

I will blog about anything and anyone at anytime and anywhere. I also own a twitter account you can follow me if you like and when I am online then I will follow you back.

For now I will end this first post with a picture of mine that was taken last year.