Victory is Frankenstein

When I went to visit dj_warhammer, I accidentally left my Centro wall charger behind. She's moved twice since then, and the next time it will be seen will be as she throws it into my grave.

I bought one of those "lets you plug a USB device into the wall" things for $20.00.

It didn't work with the Centro. I took it back.

I got a replacement charger from China on Ebay for $4.00 INCLUDING SHIPPING! Shortly after I got it, the middle of the plastic plug broke off, leaving me with three completely uninsulated metal tabs that could be caused to short circuit with a light squeeze. Worse yet, although it *did* still charge the phone if the proper tolerant-to-less-than-one-half-degree angle and precisely zero pressure in any direction could be achieved, it was actually physically possible to disconnect it from the phone by *sneezing*.

I'm not kidding. I've done it.
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Books Finished: Watchmen and Interesting Times

Watchmen by Alan Moore and David Gibbons

I saw the movie for this first, which kicked my ass so hard I had bruises the next day. The graphic novel isn't as lush or engrossing as the movie, and I wasn't as into the style of the artwork as much as I suspected I would be, but that doesn't change the masterful nature of the work. With complex storytelling, simultaneously larger-than-life yet very human characters, gritty tone, and some very illuminating glimpses into the human soul, it's definitely one of the best I've read. I would recommend to those with no exposure to read the novel first, then see the movie. The plot differences are minor enough not to interfere with the translation, and the Fun Total is higher in that order.

Interesting Times by Terry Pratchett

After hearing Terry Pratchett's praises sung by many fellow readings and authors for years, this was my very first exposure to his work. It's east to understand why so many people like him so much. His work is incisive, fun, and funny, and the vague suspicion you're not getting every joke the first time through probably improves re-readability. I can't say he's suddenly a new favorite, but even in one book, I can see how his style can grow on you, and I've rarely read a writer who's clearly having more fun doing his work than Pratchett, a lesson from which many aspiring writers could likely benefit.