A year later, Amazon's Kindle finds a niche

(CNN) -- It has the curves of a Lamborghini, looks like something an astronaut might take into space and weighs only 10.3 ounces.

Amazon's Kindle e-reader is wireless and can hold about 200 books, plus newspapers and magazines.

Amazon.com's electronic Kindle reader -- a device meant to remove the paper from the page and make reading both more convenient and eco-friendly -- is celebrating its first birthday.
Released in November 2007, the Kindle has sold more than a quarter million units. Its texts account for 10 percent of Amazon's book sales despite the fact that 200,000 titles -- a tiny fraction of the books offered on the site -- are available in digital form.

While exact sales figures are hard to come by, recent estimates have put the Kindle's sales on par with other high-profile mobile devices in their first year. Amazon.com says that the Kindle is currently sold out due to heavy demand.

So what has spurred its success? After all, electronic books have been around, in small numbers, for about a decade. Even Jeff Bezos, Amazon's founder and CEO, has admitted that the book is "elegantly suited to its purpose. It's hard to improve on."

One clutter-killing Kindle can hold about 200 books. And while other e-readers such as Sony's Reader must connect through a USB port to upload content, the Kindle is a wireless device, thanks to Whispernet, which is powered by Sprint's high-speed data network.

"I think the Whispernet is what sets the Kindle apart from all the other e-readers on the market," says Leslie Nicoll of Portland, Maine, who co-authored "The Amazon Kindle F.A.Q." book after her tech-loving teenage daughter urged her to get a Kindle.

Like Branch, Nicoll says she likes the Kindle's low-impact effect on her bookshelves. "I don't have to worry about giving it to someone else, reselling it on Amazon or finding a place to store it in my house," she says. "For the enjoyment and convenience, it has given me in the past seven months, I consider that it has paid for itself already."

Readers can visit Amazon's online store and upload a new book right to their Kindle. Subscribers also can have electronic versions of The New York Times and other newspapers and magazines delivered automatically to their Kindles in time for reading with their morning cup of coffee.
"The large and tightly interacting collection of Kindle features, that go far beyond those of any other previous e-Book attempt, will cause the Kindle to be the first e-Book to succeed," wrote one reviewer on an Amazon discussion board.

Blockbuster writers such as J.K. Rowling, author of the "Harry Potter" series, have said they'll never allow their books to appear on the market in electronic form. Yet future, better versions of e-readers may seduce younger consumers who grew up on PSPs and iPhones.

A next-generation model of the Kindle is due in 2009. Early reports indicate the new device will be thinner and will have fixed some current design bugs, such as poorly placed buttons that cause readers to turn pages accidentally.

"I think it's certainly a ways away from hitting the mainstream ... because of the price and the experience a reader gets from long-form reading," says Reynolds of Consumer Reports. "Whether these ... are successful, stand-alone devices remains to be seen. From what I've seen and heard, I think the technology is here to stay."

What a Difference a Year Makes!

Devin Setoguchi only played in 44 out of the 82 games during the 2007-08 season and scored 17 points (11 goals and 6 assists) during his limited time in the NHL. Ron Wilson sent Devin down to the minor league affiliate a couple of times during his rookie year. This year (his sophmore year) he secured a full-time roster spot with the San Jose Sharks and currently has 29 points (13 goals and 16 assists) in only 25 games! This would lead to a projected total for the 2008-09 season of 95 points (43 goals and 52 assists).

He's currently leading the team in goals scored and is second only to Jumbo Joe in points. He's tied with Patrick Marleau for the highest +/- rating on the team at +14. He's second on the team with 93 shots on goal (Patrick Marleau has 94). He's only taken 2 minutes in penalties and is doing all of this with only 16:06 in average ice time!

San Jose Sharks Beat Toronto Maples Leafs 5-2

Landed three tickets to the game against the Maple Leafs and went with a couple of friends from work. I still can't believe the Sharks scored 4 goals in the first period (earning us free Round Table pizza before the first intermission). The team stopped skating in the second period and then stepped it back up in the third. McLellan still has some work to do to get his team playing a consistent level of hockey for sixty minutes. The game was also historic since we tied the NHL record for most points in the first 25 games of a season with 43 points. The last team to do this was the Montreal Canadiens in 1943-44! GO SHARKS!!

Ron Wilson not sentimental about return to San Jose with Maple Leafs

This will not, Ron Wilson insisted again and again, be a sentimental journey. Yes, tonight's game against the Sharks might be a homecoming of sorts as he returns to HP Pavilion for the first time since being fired as San Jose's coach in May.

But don't expect him to get all misty-eyed. Here's something else Wilson, now the Toronto Maple Leafs' coach, won't be feeling — a grudge.

As Wilson stood outside the visitors' locker room at Staples Center, where the Maple Leafs were preparing to take on the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night, he said getting fired is just part of the coaching business and you can't take it personally.

"I've been through it before with Anaheim and Washington," Wilson said. "When San Jose fired me, I was on a red-eye flight and on the golf course the next morning. And I was on my boat that evening. I moved on. It's as simple as that."

Roller Hockey Tournament in Davis, California

My nephew Ryan had his first hockey tournament outside his home rink in San Jose, California. I was invited to go with his family on a road trip to Davis, California where he played in four games in order to win the championship 4-2. Ryan's team was sporting their new jerseys for the Silicon Valley Quakes. His sister and friend were both wearing their brothers' extra jerseys during their games to help cheer on their team.

Water Damage from Leaking Water Heater

After ripping out the carpet, padding, and moulding we had to wait for the demo, drying, and restoration services to do their magic. Luckily, it was covered by our insurance company.

Curry Rice

After my business trip to Japan I have been wanting to eat curry rice again. Luckily, a friend from Japan gave me a great recipe to try. I used too much water in the first attempt, but the second attempt worked out as planned. This recipe included pork, yellow potatoes, carrots, and yellow onions.

2003 Yamaha FJR1300

In March of this year I decided that my Ninja 250 was not a lot of fun to ride on long trips. I felt very limited as to where I could ride so I sold it and bought a used sports tourer. The bike is really big and heavy and is taking me longer than expected to get used to riding it. However, it is very fun to drive and fast. It's just coming to a stop that is challenging for me. The downside of having short legs. Not sure if this will be my long-term bike...

Heidi's Creativity

Heidi's two cycling paintings are now on display in our bonus room. The custom lighting idea she thought up and created (with the help of my Dad) really makes the paintings stand out.

View from Ewoldsen Trail

In April 2008, after Heidi and I hiked El Toro in Morgan Hill, we decided to go to Big Sur and do some exploring. We ended up at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and on a 4.5 mile loop called Ewoldsen Trail. It was fun and the views were spectacular. This is one view that we experienced on the way back.

Vernal Fall - Yosemite National Park

Vernal Fall - Yosemite National Park, originally uploaded by playhockeyeh.

Also in March, we had a visitor from Japan here on business for 10 days. During the one weekend available, we took him to Yosemite National Park and did some sightseeing and hiking. Vernal Fall was bay far the highlight of the trip. Although, Half Dome was amazing as well.

Heidi's New Bike

Heidi's been wanted to go bike riding with me, but her old mountain bike was heavy and not a lot of fun to ride. We stumbled upon a hybrid bike at the new Concept Cyclery in Morgan Hill that was very light weight with a nice tire size for a decent price. The tires have a lot less rolling resistance than her mountain bike but more than my road bike. I guess that's why they call it a hybrid. But, most hybrids are fairly heavy (I think because the average user of a hybrid wants a very stable ride). Less weight means the ride is faster and steering is more "twitchy". Hopefully, this bike brings Heidi years of enjoyment. Now I just need to sell her mountain bike on Craigslist.

Henry Cowell Camping Trip

This past weekend we went camping for one night in Scotts Valley, CA. We arrived on Saturday afternoon and the park rangers were turning people away. There were over 60 camp sites and they were all occupied. It was actually nice to see all of these families out camping and spending some quality time together. Here's a picture of Heidi, Emily & Ryan relaxing after dinner.

Giants vs DBacks

Giants vs DBacks, originally uploaded by playhockeyeh.

Had the opportunity to go to a San Francisco Giants game last night who were playing the first place Arizona club. It was a fun night at AT&T Park but they unfortunately lost when they gave up a 3-run home run with one out to go in the top of the 9th...

New GE Profile Refrigerator

Our stainless steel replacement arrived today and it definitely fills the space in our kitchen better than the previous refrigerator.

It's a counter-depth unit with French doors and bottom freezer. It's an Energy Star compliant refrigerator so it should use up a lot less electricity each year.

Even though the black sides of the refrigerator show, it ties in nicely with the granite tile in the flooring.

Our 10 Year Old Kenmore Refrigerator

Below is the refrigerator that Heidi and I bought when we were dating and living in Milpitas. It's been a trouble free unit that has served us well. But, we think it's time to move on...

Heidi & Jeff

Heidi & Jeff, originally uploaded by playhockeyeh.

I don't think I have any pictures of Heidi and Jeff together so I took the opportunity while ice skating at Logitech Ice.

All Aboard and Ready to Launch

All Aboard and Ready to Launch, originally uploaded by playhockeyeh.

While on our recent vacation to Phoenix, Arizona, Heidi and I decided at the last minute to go hot air ballooning. This was a first for both of us and while Heidi was barely nervous at all, I had a good grip on the basket during most of the time we were in the air. Being over 1,000 feet in the air standing in a wicker basket was a little scary for me. But the views were amazing! I'm glad I went, but probably won't be doing it again. I'd rather spend time seeking out new zipline courses with Heidi. Next stop, Vancouver (to try out the zipline course in Whistler, British Columbia).

Beautiful Carmel Beach

Beautiful Carmel Beach, originally uploaded by playhockeyeh.

Heidi and I spent Saturday morning in Carmel walking along the beach. Around lunch, we headed into town and did some shopping and had lunch at a local coffee shop bistro. We split a panini, salad and fruit smoothie before heading back to our car. Luckily we got an early start since by the time we left around 2 PM, there was a huge line of cars streaming into the area.

Pug Eyes

March 27th 2007, originally uploaded by Lindsay Loo Brush.

Heidi and I got a good laugh about this cute little pug that we saw on Flickr.com.

Visitors from Parent Company

Last week three employees from Anritsu Corporation came from Atsugi, Japan to our Morgan Hill campus to continue discussions on our J-SOX implementation. It was a very productive three day meeting and the project is being further defined each month. Here's a picture of our group before enjoying a meal at the Golden Oak.

Playing Hockey at Rollin' Ice

Emily started playing roller hockey at Rollin' Ice in their new San Jose facility. It was planned that she would play with her little brother Ryan, but because his team filled up she was forced to play with the older kids. There are some advanced players at this level, but she's definitely holding her own!

















She picked #5 for her jersey number. Not sure why she picked this number, I'll have to remember to ask her...

Ao Nang Tower, Thailand

Ao Nang Tower, Thailand, originally uploaded by HalonaCoast.

Another picture I found on Flickr. 200 feet in the air. Uh, I think I'll pass...

Save Yourself

save yourself, originally uploaded by dew_wipe.

Found this hilarious picture on Flickr. Thought I would share it with y'all. The author of this picture said he was inspired by Calvin & Hobbes!

Dad Comes Home From The Hospital

Dad went into surgery on February 1st and eight days later he got to come home. It'll take some time for a full recovery, but at least he gets to recuperate in the comfort of home. I think he looks good after a tough surgery!

El Toro

Lately I've been taking a closer look at El Toro in Morgan Hill. I think it's the highest point in Morgan Hill at approximately 1,500 feet. Usually, the sky is a little hazy, but this shot is the clearest I've managed so far.

Big Win Last Night

Went to watch the team play last night at Logitech and it was an exciting game. Our team was down 2-0 halfway through the game but battled back and scored 3 unanswered goals with the game winner being scored with 34 seconds left on the clock!

Christmas Comes Early!

My grandma had been watching an old 25" television for the longest time with just an antenna on her roof. She put up with a handful of channels long enough so the family bought her an early Christmas present and set up a new 32" television with a new stand and DIRECTV. Now she has over 150 channels!

Here's a picture of her old setup...

And here's the new TV and stand...

Adopt-a-family 2006

Each year our company participates in an adopt-a-family program. Each department has the opportunity to "adopt" one family and provide gifts and food for the holidays. Here's a photo of the gifts we all bought and wrapped...

Some people chose to donate food and/or contribute cash towards a food store gift card. Thanks to the economy sized items from Costco, this family is getting a lot of food!

Canon ZR-700 MiniDV Camcorder

Looked into upgrade my old Sony Hi-8 camcorder to a hard drive camcorder but found that the technology still needs a year or more to fully mature. Right now, the compression needed to record to a hard drive or mini DVD results in video quality that is the same or inferior to the current technology, MiniDV. So, for a fraction of the cost, I went with a more basic MiniDV Canon camcorder. I've included some pictures below. Isn't the size difference amazing!

One nice feature about this Canon is that it records in a widescreen format (as you can see in the LCD screen comparison below).

Looks like the Sony is going to eat the Canon!

Luke, I am your father!

Darth Vader and Coke Man?!? Emily and Ryan are always ready to have a little fun!

Jay's Birthday

Jay's birthday was on October 15th so Heidi and I chose to remember him by having one of his favorite treats, a cookie! We had it personalized for him...

New Blog - Local Good Eats

Created a new blog called "Local Good Eats" which will cover favorite foods (both homemade and from restaurants). Robin and I are starting this blog out but we're looking for moderators! If you'd like to be a contributor to the blog let me know and I'll add you as a moderator. You can post pictures and reviews of your favorite foods. If you don't think you'll want to get "invloved" in a blog then you can always send me a picture and your comments and I'll post them for you! How's that for customer service.

You can view the blog with the below link:

www.localgoodeats.blogspot.com

iPug

I was never a big fan of the pug until I met my friend Robin's pug, Kami. Now I'm a fan of the pug! I found this picture on www.flickr.com.

Undefeated...WOW! It's been a while!

Last night we won our hockey game with a score of 9-4 and now our record is 3-0. I can't remember the last time we had such a good start to a season. I'm definitely not complaining, but it kind of feels weird. This last game this one "kid" showed up and racked up 4 goals for us. It's also been a while since we've had a ringer on our bench. We've certainly played against our share in the past. Jeff and I are having fun on this new team.

HP Pavilion

Our San Jose Sharks start another season this Thursday against the St. Louis Blues. Can you smell the ice? GO SHARKS !!

Heidi's Birthday Dinner

We celebrated Heidi's birthday this year at CreAsian in Morgan Hill. The food was good and my Mom was nice enough to find the perfect bakery to create a chocolate cake with fresh raspberries and whipped cream. It was nice having everyone get together to wish Heidi a happy birthday.

Steve Turned 39 Years Old

We celebrated Steve's birthday on Saturday night at Elephant Bar & Restaurant in Cupertino. There was a good a good turnout of nine family members and the food was great. I know Steve LOVES to have his picture taken, but I was lucky enough to get a decent smile out of him.

CreAsian Restaurant

Tried a new restaurant in Morgan Hill today with Robin. It's called CreAsian and it's selling itself as "Creative Asian Cuisine". Fairly large menu that seemed to mainly be Japanese dishes. I had the bento box that included chicken teriyaki and gyoza. It wasn't bad. I'll be back to try the thai chicken dish that Robin ordered.

www.creasiancuisine.com

Henry Coe State Park

This weekend we went for a little hike with our niece and nephew (Emily & Ryan) at Henry Coe. Emily wanted to go for a much longer hike, but we didn't go too far since we weren't sure how far Ryan could go. But Ryan kept up the whole way and was the first one to make it back to the parking lot!

Mom Gets an iPod

My Mom has been wanting an iPod for quite some time and she got one over the weekend! She decided on a 5G 30GB model since it has a big screen. She liked the weight and size of the Nano, but the screen is just too small.

iTunes 7.0 has some nice improvements and I think she's going to have fun with the iPod and iTunes. We also had to pick up a couple of speakers and subwoofer for their PC so they can enjoy their music in their home office.

It just worked out that Apple just lowered their pricing of the 30GB model by $50...

Back on the Ice

Jeff & I had our first preseason game with our new team last night and dropping down a few divisions made a huge difference in our game. We both played well last night and we ended up winning 5-2 with our team pretty much dominating most of the game.

Logitech Ice & USA Hockey followed suit with the NHL and created new tougher rules on obstruction. There were a ton of penalties to start out the season. Basically, if you put your stick on another player, you're going to the box! Jeff, pictured below, was beating the opposing team's forwards to the puck all night long.

Dew Action Sports Tour

Heidi and I will be going on Saturday to the Dew Action Sports Tour at HP Pavilion. Hopefully we'll get to see some great Freestyle Motocross action and witness Travis Pastrana's amazing skills (although I doubt he'll be doing a double backflip outdoors).

After the FMX, maybe we'll have some time to check out the BMX and/or skateboarders do their thing inside the HP Pavilion...

This picture is from the Denver stop of the tour. It should be fun!

Honda Element

Every vehicle has it's pros and cons and with my Element there are certainly some negatives (suicide doors & underpowered engine). But it also has some nice positives (clamshell rear gate & cargo height capacity). It's definitely nice being able to put our bikes in the back of the Element (without taking the front wheels off) and being able to run some errands or go out to lunch after the ride without worrying about people stealing or vandalizing your bike. Would I buy an Element again? Probably not, but it's still been a fun and unique vehicle.