Embracing Change: A Technological and Educational Evolution
It’s a time of exciting transformations, both in my approach to technology and education. Let’s explore some of the significant changes underway.
A Website in Flux
My website is undergoing a major reorganization, with a growing emphasis on segmentation. Different topical areas are being carved into distinct subdomains. This will lead to a less cluttered central website, with sections that are neatly arranged by theme. It’s a work in progress, but I’m optimistic about the outcome.
Full-Stack Development Takes Center Stage
In the intermediate term, I’m embracing full-stack development philosophies. WordPress will remain a valuable tool, but I’m venturing into new territories.
Linux: A Long-Awaited Shift
I’m making a significant move away from OSX and Windows towards Linux. It’s been a long-held desire, and now I’m fully committing. While I’ll keep Apple and Windows systems for the time being, the plan is to eventually emulate other systems from within Linux. My new workhorse is a 17″ MSI Titan, an older but capable machine. Thanks to Linux, it’s perfect for my needs, boasting a 4 GHz processor and 64GB of RAM, all for under $1000.
Security First with Kali Linux
Kali Linux, known for its focus on security, is my current Linux distribution of choice. While Black Arch is tempting, Kali’s extensive collection of 300-600 applications makes it ideal for my security-related studies. Black Arch, with its command-line focus, will have to wait until I gain more CLI expertise, starting with Bash. It should be noted that Black Arch is far more extensive and for more advanced use. Some day I do hope to hop over to it. The Kali ISO download came in at 4 GB. Black Arch was 20 GB.
Open Source Alternatives and Adobe
With emulation and a powerful system, I could theoretically run Adobe apps for tasks like NFT creation. However, I’m determined to explore open-source alternatives and only use Adobe when absolutely necessary. This is a long-term goal, as I’ve been an Adobe user for over 25 years. Though I appreciate their development, the subscription model isn’t ideal. GIMP is becoming my go-to image editor. The transition to Linux is a learning curve, but one I’m determined to conquer.
Apple’s Role in the Future
While I’ll retain some Apple hardware, future plans include experimenting with Linux operating systems on it, potentially running OSX in emulation for coding studies. Apple’s closed ecosystem, while once appealing, is becoming less so. I’ve gotten so I lean towards decentralization philosophically.
Android and Chromebook Integration
I’m transitioning from Apple to Android, not as a rejection of Apple, but to create a more integrated platform that includes Chromebooks and Linux. I’ll likely increase my financial investment in Alphabet, though I’m not divesting my Apple stock. My damaged iPhone 14 Pro was replaced with a Google Pixel 9 Pro XL with 512 GB of storage.
Chromebook Productivity
Chromebooks offer a focused environment that boosts my productivity. While I still need other systems for certain tasks, my Google One subscription with 5 TB of storage covers most of my needs. Compared to my more expensive Apple plan, I find myself using the various Google services more frequently.
Tablets and Smart Home
I’m downsizing my Apple tablets, replacing them with devices that complement my Google Pixel. I’ve already sold one iPad and will be selling my 12.9″ M1 iPad Pro soon. The Samsung Tab S8 Ultra with keyboard case is excellent for e-reading, but I’m also considering a smaller, lighter Google Pixel tablet with the speaker dock. Apple’s lag in the smart home arena is another factor. I’ve sold most of my Amazon speaker equipment and will be selling my Apple and Amazon streaming devices, pending testing on the new Google TV Streamer.
Audio and Entertainment
For home audio, Google’s solutions are sufficient. I plan to use the speaker dock in my work area and add a few Nest Audio Speakers to the Google TV Streamer. If two speakers prove adequate, I’ll use the extras in my basement gaming setup. For the Pixel I’m looking at using high resolution music downloads and ripping CDs to FLAC. I’ll probably never fully abandon iTunes but that’s more because of the movies and TV shows I have on it not the music. I’m willing to rebuild the music library on Android/Linux with a focus on the highest quality and lossless files.
Expanding My Literary Horizons
For years, my reading focused mainly on non-fiction. However, four years ago, I began work on a science fiction literary site concept. I’m now adding more sci-fi titles for review and personal enjoyment. I’m also significantly expanding my library in programming and website development. My goal is to become a full-stack programmer (DevOps), potentially exploring mobile app development as well. I’m building a library both on Kindle and off, seeking the best deals.
Photography and Website Development
Photography can be linked to website development, as images are crucial in certain contexts. I’ve downsized my camera equipment, shifting to a Sony A7R III full-frame system. This aligns with my move towards Android, Chromebook, and Linux – it’s more cost-effective. I still have my Micro Four Thirds camera and lenses, but the A7R III is compact enough, especially compared to my old Nikon D850.
Vintage Lenses and Cost Savings
The Sony system’s adaptability to vintage lenses from various manufacturers is another cost-saving benefit. I already have adapters for Canon EF and manual Nikon lenses, and a Pentax adapter is on the horizon. With over 20 lenses at my disposal, I have plenty of options. A modern Sony FE 24mm f2.8 lens and a Canon 40mm f2.8 lens make a great combo for street and documentary photography.
Future Photo Plans
Once I complete my bootcamp in 2025, I’ll consider rebuilding my lens collection. For now, I have a fantastic system for my current photographic pursuits.
Conclusion
Overall, the shift in camera equipment has helped finance these various endeavors. Downsizing wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. I still have items to trade, so expect future updates on “new to me” vintage lenses. They offer a unique, authentic film feel that I find appealing, particularly those from the 1960s to 1980.
These are just some of the developments shaping my technological and educational journey. It’s a time of change, growth, and exciting possibilities.