|
|
|
Glimpses : Favorites
A list of my top 5 favorite . . .
Programming Languages:
1. Visual Basic - Visual Basic is, in my opinion, the most versatile of the compiled programming languages. Its syntax and logic program flow are simple, easy to learn, and comprehend. It creates an easy to use connection between procedural programming and the event driven environment of Windows allowing powerful Windows applications to be created with ease and in a time efficient manner.
2. PHP - PHP, Hypertext Preprocessor, is the future of web based programming. It is a powerful server side language that allows almost anything to be written. Unlike Perl, it allows you to embed PHP code directly into the middle of HTML making their integration seamless. Along with complete socket support, including email tools, it is a magnificently rounded language and a joy to use.
3. JScript - While JScript is technically Microsoft's answer to Sun's JavaScript there are no major differences in what I've done with it. JScript provides a much more complete environment the VBScript, allowing coding to be done much easier and faster. It is my personal pick when it comes to client side programming for tasks such as form validation and the like.
4. Prolog - In a class completely of its own Prolog provides the ability to model human thought in a computer programming language. It takes such a unique approach at even the most basic programming tasks that it's quite refreshing to use. It excels in making relationships between objects and in natural language processing; even normal, mundane procedural tasks take on a whole new feel. You've got to try it to understand its intricacies, beauty, and power.
5. C++ - While it's last in my list it is arguably the most powerful of them all. C++ is mid level programming language, trying to balance the power behind such low level ones as Assembler with the ease of use of high level like ones Visual Basic. The power and flexibility of C++ is astounding, being the first to truly use Object Oriented Programming it gives a level of abstraction rivaled only by Prolog. Along with is power comes a level of complexity mastered by few.
Books:
1. Hitchhiker's Guide to the Universe - Douglas Adams did a splendid job in this British science fiction satire. Adams' handling of the future and the characters that populate it, is surreal. The 'flavour' of British humor seeps through the text like the juices of a succulent steak. Arguably my most favorite part and the most memorable, is his description of tea when the main character tries to explain the concept of the drink of tea to the computer. After much work it, comes out as dried leaves boiled in water, producing the best tasting tea ever. Chocked full of humor, this is a must read for everyone.
2. Rainbow Six - Tom Clancy is the king of ultra-realistic combat novels. Because of his service in the Navy, he writes with exceptional background knowledge that lends a unique feel of authenticity to his works. Like many of his novels, Rainbow Six is quite violent and suspenseful, but this is of course where Clancy shines. The story revolves around an elite anti-terrorist group that must save the world through its heroics. Well done and brilliant, if you are action-lover this book is for you.
3. A Dream of Eagles - I'd never before heard of Jack Whyte and never really read historical fiction, but upon picking up the first book in this series I was riveted. When you hear of the Arthurian Legend, most think of the magical sword "Excalibur" and the wizard "Merlin". Whyte however takes a completely different approach on a "fairy-tale" story. He takes you through the rise of Author, from his ancestors, to the beginning of his reign. Whyte has done a superb job in his research giving the book a very real feel to it. The detail in his explanations of war and the methods used are thrilling to read, making A Dream of Eagles my favorite telling of the Arthurian Legend.
4. The Return - The best of Star Trek is in this book. It's a thrilling novel of encounters with our favorite "bad guys", the Borg. Wasting no time, the story jumps straight into the fray of things with a covert Star Fleet mission against the Borg. With the introduction of a new class ship, multiple encounters with the Borg, and all the stuff one loves about Star Trek it provides a story all Trekies will enjoy to its fullest.
5. The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings Trilogy - Tolkien's masterpieces are, precisely that, masterful. He's, in my eyes, the father of fantasy. They're gripping stories that blend action and humor together, until Tolkien has weaved a superb tale of intrigue and imagination. As the plot unravels, you are sucked deeper and deeper into the depths of Middle Earth as you follow the adventures of hobbits, dwarves, men, and elves. The characters develop giving a sense of depth and enjoyment as get to know them better, and in the end, you even come to love them. With the addition of terrific battles, Tolkien has made these books an excellent read.
Dishes:
1. Enchiladas - Mexican ranks as one of my all time favorite ethnic foods, and enchiladas are the best of Mexican. They come in such a wide variety of flavors including corn or flour tortilla with a near unlimited number of fillings, the most common of which are beef, cheese, and chicken. They have an amazing blend of flavors and textures, and can be spicy or not, according to one's personal taste. Enchiladas are an all around favorite, suitable for any meal, any time, any place.
2. Meat Lover's Pizza - Pizza may have originated in Italy but America has perfected the art. Nothing quite beats a hot, freshly baked (in a pizza oven, not a microwave), pizza. On our pizzas nothing's better than a blend of the best meats, pepperoni, Italian sausage, and Canadian bacon. Add jalapenos or red peppers to taste and dig in. The oven cooking has perfectly blended the flavors of the meat, cheese, and sauce, providing a gourmet delight.
3. Grilled Squid - While good ol' American food is tasty, once in a while there's a yearning for something more exotic. Enter grilled squid. This seafood is fabulous! I've cooked it myself as well as having eaten it in many restaurants. Some of the best was stuffed with clams, yielding a wonderful symphony of tastes that caused the palate to soar to the heavens. Another favorite was when I prepared it myself. Marinated in a scrumptious fusion of lemon, garlic, and peri-peri peppers, then grilled to perfection, and hen eaten while still piping hot, it was just delightful!
4. Fried Shrimp - Again, seafood enters the arena. Not as exotic as squid, yet every bit as good. Dipped in a yummy batter and fried in hot oil, shrimp creates a taste sensation. Living on the coast for fifteen years of my life, means that I've eaten fried shrimp so often I'm practically an expert. Nothing quite compares to the experience of lemon or lime drizzled on freshly fried shrimp. Plain and simple, yet elegant, it is a definite favorite of mine.
5. Spaghetti - Spaghetti is a traditional home cooked meal in my house. Nothing says home-cooked goodness like spaghetti and freshly-baked garlic bread. With spaghetti, the sauce is paramount; it's what makes it incredible or awful. The ideal balance of tangy and sweet must be achieved in order to create the perfect sauce. Generously douse al dente noodles with the simmering hot sauce and enjoy one of the best home-cooked meals ever.
|
|
