Some Features:

1. Two-thirds the size of the original Atari 2600 console released in 1977
2. Two joysticks – and if you still have some of that vintage gear laying around, you’ll be happy to hear this: “Original Legacy Atari paddle controllers are compatible with Arcade Pong”
3. 40 games pre-installed (Note: I was disappointed to find one of my all-time favorites is missing, Pole Position.)

More Information:
Manufacturer Site | Atari® Flashback™ 2 Classic Game Console

Purchase Page | the Atari Flashback 2.0 from Amazon.com – $30 (Nota Bena: There’s a rumor going around that Target will have the system for $20 on black Friday.)

I Reminisce:
Growing up in the Eighties just wouldn’t have been the same without this classic time-waster – A special shout out to my older brothers, who will probably appreciate this more than I can, for introducing me to the video game revolution way back when.

The heads-up on this interesting offer: Microsoft has generously decided to give away the beta version of their Office 2007 suite for free. I was able to download the installation packages and get the product keys after a brief online registration (hotmail, passport, .net account, etc. required).

Here is their expected pricing for the final version of the 2007 Microsoft Office System (Full Price/Upgrade Price):

$499/$329 Microsoft Office Professional 2007
$449/$279 Microsoft Office Small Business 2007
$399/$239 Microsoft Office Standard 2007
$149/None Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007

A few things Microsoft points out:

Expiration Date
All 2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2 software has an expiration date of February 1, 2007. After expiration, 2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2 will continue to work in a reduced functionality mode that limits your options and operations.

Should I become bold enough to actually install this software, I’ll post again here; but in the mean time, let me know what kind of success you’ve had…Good luck!

Get fit fast with the Bowflex Conquest – This thing is no joke…

I had been planning on writing this for a while now, but felt compelled to after I saw the price come all the way down to $500 with free shipping (less than half what I paid).

Have you ever seen that cheesy late night infomercial for the Bowflex? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. For the past 20 years Nautilus has led the home gym market with their ground-breaking Bowflex machine. I too was a bit skeptical, but curiosity got the better of me after figuring out how much cheaper it would be than a gym membership – even at over $1,000.

Having played football into college, being pushed in the gym is nothing new. A home gym capable of replicating an experience at one of these decked out health clubs always seemed like a dream. Fortunately, the Bowflex has permanently altered this perception. When a number of friends and family tried it out, they had to get one too. It’s sort of a strange little cult thing we have going now.

Here’s a funny video illustrating just how challenging the Bowflex can be. I can vouch; reminiscent of a Shakira performance (although evoking laughter rather than falling in love), a visiting friend who is also a former college football player once attempted this same bench press movement with identical results. Check it out:

This machine is full of great benefits; see more Bowflex user reviews on Amazon (a different model, but with identical features & functionality).

[Note: The Bowflex Conquest model on Amazon looks like it sold out already - hopefully it'll be back soon; but in the meantime, the Bowflex Motivator 2 is on sale as well and is still a really great deal.]

UPDATE [03.23.08]
Sears has the Bowflex Xtreme Home Gym on sale for $500 (original price is $1,199) through 03/29/08. Store pickup is limited and shipping begins at $65.

NOTE: The MicroSD card, often confused with the larger MiniSD card (also currently available in 1gb), is actually a re-branding of the Transflash size flash memory card. The new MicroSD works in a variety of devices (including the Garmin hand-held GPS); but to avoid disappointment, be sure to check your manual first…ENJOY!

ENJOY!