Just wanted to take a second to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (or what ever winter holiday you celebrate).

I took off work today to see the Return of the King. I loved the books and I love the movies. The third movie is as incredible as I had hoped. Seldom does a movie meet my expectations but this one did big time. I know a lot of people that will grumble about it not being exactly like the books but I have to disagree. This adaptation is very true to the original while standing an it's own as a great film. Best of all the differences make it a entertaining and new experience even for those of us that have read the books multiple times. I can't wait to see it again....even if it is 3 hours and 20 minutes long.

OK, so I know you are all thinking....what can I get Jake for Christmas. Well let me help you out. I want a lot of stuff, but if you all get together, you can get me this.  It is the Canon EOS Digital Rebel.  It is the first under 1000 dollar digital SLR camera and it is the latest on my lust list.  I really want this camera. It is the only thing between me and the greatest pictures ever seen.  Well, this camera and some talent :) Also, I have been thinking of upgrading my audio equipment pretty soon.  Currently I have a few year old Sony ES receiver driving  I was thinking of a new receiver but I kind of miss the separates I used to drive my NHT's with.  I did some research and came across the Outlaw Audio website.  They have a really good Preamp/Amp combo on sale right now for around $1600.  Reviews that I have found are all very positive, and I will be able to pick up some of the new audio standards that I am missing right now (ProLogic II, DTS-ES, etc)