iPod Accessories and iPod in the Car

As part of my recent purchase from Apple, I got a free iPod (rebate still pending). The other day I started browsing items I could accessorize my iPod with. The natural place to start would be Apple's online store. In taking a quick glance, I saw that many of the cheaper items start around $19.00 (USD). For instance, they charge that for a cheap lanyard that cost less than $1 (again USD) to produce. What is up with that major markup?

A few days ago I hooked my iPod up to my car stereo. It rocks! And, I didn't have to use an FM transmitter, which starts at 34.95. But, I did have to buy an adapter, one that costs roughly the same, to convert RCA to IP Bus that plugs into my Pioneer Deck. Now I have my entire music collection everywhere I drive.

I'm just posting to say the iPod is great, however I'll never buy an iPod Accessory. The prices aren't worth it. I can get by without socks for iPod. If anybody has a place for cheaper iPod Accessories, please post them.

Windows is for Gamers!

I was talking to a good buddy of mine, who was complaining how his computer has been screwing up (it's a windows PC). I started talking to him about how Macs are a great alternative. I'm not trying to be one of those Mac addicts who must convert everyone they see, Apple has a whole chain of stores for that. His main excuse for not going mac was games, thus I conclude Windows is for gamers, while Macs are for people who want to be productive. I know I bought my mac for Final Cut Pro and all the other great apps from Apple. My opinion on windows users has drastically changed from this brief conversation. I no longer will listen to windows users, all they do is waste time playing games. I cannot think of one great app that exists solely on the PC, except for the many games that are PC only. Just an interesting thought. I invite other people to post and prove me wrong. Are there great apps that exist solely for the PC, if so what are they?

P.S. and by PC I mean the Windows world.

What's Wrong With This Picture

I'm not one to nit pick, but what's up with this image? Can you tell? It's the middle picture that bothers me. It does not accurately portray the customer service at an Apple Retail store. How could they let a crippled grandma push a heavy load of computers out to her car. This image is from Apple's updated switch site. Maybe I'm crazy and I'm over analyzing it, but that picture just bothers me.

Back on the Mac

After a little less than a year I'm finally back on the Mac, and it feels great! I currently have my other notebook listed on eBay, and I can't wait to mail it. Apple is great, not only did I get a great computer, I got a free iPod (rebate pending). Transferring everything from PC to Mac isn't exactly easy. Outlook and Apple apps don't get along well (Outlook Calendar -> iCal, Outlook Contacts to Address Book, and Outlook Mail -> Mail). Other than that my switch is complete, and I can finally look forward to happy computing days once again.

P.S. For those who care, I bought a new iBook. I don't have enough $$$ for a powerbook.