tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:/feedJohn D. Storey2014-08-13T07:35:41-07:00John D. Storeyhttps://johndangerstorey.svbtle.comjohn@openapparatus.comSvbtle.comtag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/web-ios2014-08-13T07:35:41-07:002014-08-13T07:35:41-07:00Web -> iOS<p>I recently started developing for iOS and I thought I’d write this short post on it. I first learned javascript/web development through <a href="https://devmounta.in/?r=Nk6">DevMountain</a> in January and was working some freelance gigs when I became enticed by iOS. Among developers it held a little more prestige, plus it had a higher starting salary so I was excited to learn it and develop my first app. I mean, I loved javascript and kinda believe it will take over the world one day with its many inciting, delicious, and easily accessible libraries. All with their many-fold tutorials and code snippets found on stack overflow for achieving virtually ANYTHING imaginable. </p>
<p>Nonetheless, I wanted to learn iOS and if you’ve ever had similar urges here are some pointers to clear up misconceptions answer some questions, and make general comments about the difference between iOS and web development. </p>
<h1 id="1-what-makes-ios-more-difficult-than-web-deve_1">1. What makes iOS more difficult than web development? <a class="head_anchor" href="#1-what-makes-ios-more-difficult-than-web-deve_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p>Both are difficult. However, in addition to dealing with traditional development problems, those that choose to develop within the iOS framework must also have to deal with the expectations Apple has put in place. The best way to describe it is if you imagine that you have begun building a car from scratch. With web development you have your option of multiple different engines, tires, and windshields etc…. each with its own manual and you can pick and choose which one you like best before you start. However, if you start to develop for iPhone you have only 1 engine, 1 windshield, and 1 set of tires that Apple has provided for you. Some of the pieces have very specific instructions for you to follow too. In Apple’s car to start the engine you must clap both hands on the steering wheel, tell it how many people are in the car, if they are male or female, and also the final destination of your trip or else it won’t start. In my opinion, that’s the hardest part about iOS, <strong>just learning how to develop in the manner which Apple wants you to develop</strong> </p>
<h1 id="2-learning-web-development-before-ios_1">2. Learning web development before iOS. <a class="head_anchor" href="#2-learning-web-development-before-ios_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p>Learning web development first will allow you to understand some fundamental programming methodologies. Really any sort of analytical learning will prepare you well for iOS development. So would I recommend learning how to develop for the web before learning iOS? Of course! Are people that skip web development and go straight to iPhone sub-par iOS developers? Not even close! In learning iOS it’s probably more important to understand core computer science principles like class inheritance, data types, and the “Model View Controller” structure <strong>none of which are necessary for web, but can be applied when needed</strong>. Most of my iOS mentors have never developed for the web at all and overall, I don’t think it matters which one you learn first. <strong>However, if you have never developed before and are new to programming I do think javascript is an easier language to start with.</strong></p>
<h1 id="3-frontend-web-vs-ios_1">3. Front-End Web vs iOS <a class="head_anchor" href="#3-frontend-web-vs-ios_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p>The existence of HTML and CSS is awesome… and iOS doesn’t use anything even close to those languages. So if you think they will translate over, think again, because they have their own system for displaying content on the screen. They even have multiple ways in which you can define where it will be displayed and if you’re used to one style, but work with someone that uses the other style it will be difficult to work together. <a href="http://www.toptal.com/ios/ios-user-interfaces-storyboards-vs-nibs-vs-custom-code">Here is a link</a> talking about the differences. Basically “display centric” development and responsive web design is definitely easier with CSS, but*. However, iOS does have one bonus point in that the devices used to view your iOS apps are the same so you don’t have to worry about things like different web browsers, screen sizes, and the like. All said and done… visual development is easier for the web. </p>
<h1 id="4-entrepreneurs-looking-to-do-mvps_1">4. Entrepreneurs looking to do MVPs <a class="head_anchor" href="#4-entrepreneurs-looking-to-do-mvps_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p>Doing a web app in Angular/Ember then converting it over to iOS/Android/Blackberry/WindowsPhone/WhateverPhone via <a href="http://phonegap.com/">Phonegap</a> is going to be WAY more time and cost effective rather than spending time in developing specific applications for all those other platforms. Rather than hiring developers for each mobile platform, spend that money on marketing (my humble opinion) and wait until you’ve really nailed your solution to start building device specific apps.</p>
<h1 id="5-swift-vs-objectivec_1">5. Swift vs Objective-C <a class="head_anchor" href="#5-swift-vs-objectivec_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p>Remember the example I used above about the car (see the section titled “What makes iOS more difficult than web development” above) isn’t the language, but rather the restrictions and requirements Apple inherently has. Therefore, the actual language in which you code is not the most difficult part, but rather the framework.</p>
<p>Those are my initial thoughts. If you have any other questions about this just send an email to johndangerstorey at gmail dot com or send a lil ole tweet in the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/johnDANGRstorey">@johnDANGRstorey</a>. Good luck learning and long live the mighty coder!</p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/the-costs-of-making-it-happen2014-08-01T12:41:04-07:002014-08-01T12:41:04-07:00The Costs of Making it Happen<p>As you most likely know I’ve started building my own tiny house in the back of a FedEx truck I adoringly call the <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/make-it-happen-wagon">Make it Happen Wagon</a>. I’ve decided to follow the pattern set by Thoreau in <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/books-ive-read">Walden</a> This blog post is to give a brief accounting of my total costs excluding time.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>$4,000 Initial cost for FedEx truck:</strong> I bought it out of Bentonville, AR because it’s the headquarters of Walmart and you can find these kinds of trucks for about 1-2K cheaper. I got the ticket out there for about $50 (long story, but I have a friend…) and I didn’t have to pay for gas because I helped a buddy move back to Utah and he paid for the gas.</p>
<p><strong>$500 Repairs:</strong> I had to fix a head gasket <strong>YIKES! RIGHT?!!</strong> but it didn’t cost nearly what I thought it would so we’re chill there.</p>
<p><strong>$1,000 Base:</strong> My receipts actually only came to $896 but i’m factoring in gas at about $100 a tank, and other things that perhaps I forgot to document. The bulk of this amount comes from things like insulation ($180), sheet metal ($100), paint, stain, reclaimed wood pallets, finished 5-layer plywood($235), tools, screws, safety glasses, kneepads, etc…. pretty much basic building material stuff. Because I’m not finished this number will probably increase, but I’m pretty sure we are close to being finished with this building phase.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>If you’re interested what I think about money, check out my blog post about it: <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/money">Money</a></p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/and-so-it-begins-make-it-happen-wagon2014-07-14T23:56:04-07:002014-07-14T23:56:04-07:00And So It Begins<p>Let me bring everything up to speed on how this whole thing happened. I’m into <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/minimalist-living">Minimalist Living</a> and bought a FedEx truck called the <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/make-it-happen-wagon">Make It Happen Wagon</a> to start executing on some of my minimalist ideas.</p>
<p><a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/8buydhgbc54ema.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/8buydhgbc54ema_small.jpg" alt="photo 1.JPG"></a></p>
<p>If I would’ve had it my way I’d be living in a shipping container cause I’d been REALLY into Conex Box Houses, bought Tiny House books, and even had visited people that had built homes for under $10,000 when a friend of mine approached me about buying a FedEx truck that he wanted to use to move from Bentonville, Arkansas back to Utah. </p>
<p>Now Bentonville is the headquarters for our beloved Walmart, so shipping and cargo trucks are at a surplus from what I understand. It was our initial plan to buy the truck for $4,000, and sell it in Utah for a $1,000 - $2,000 gain. However, I became attached and decided to start building it out (Doesn’t hurt that my father refused to let me put a shipping container on our property to start building my house in… or I’d probably be doing that right now. So I decided to go with the next best thing and get me a FedEx truck instead).</p>
<p>So far I’ve started spending A LOT of time at Home Depot<br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/bvbfhlif16jdw.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/bvbfhlif16jdw_small.jpg" alt="photo 2.JPG"></a></p>
<p>Found that buying pallets already broken down is WAY easier than breaking down pallets yourself<br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/zw2fjbzwtcxaxw.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/zw2fjbzwtcxaxw_small.jpg" alt="photo 3.JPG"></a></p>
<p>and discovered that working with friends is absolutely the best way to go about a project like this<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/izwcxc9cd8a5wg.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/izwcxc9cd8a5wg_small.jpg" alt="photo 4.JPG"></a></p>
<p>So far what we’ve done is</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Remove all the shelving </p>
<p>Install 2" insulation</p>
<p>Hang plywood on the walls</p>
<p>Installed electrical outlets</p>
<p>Cut and hang reclaimed wood</p>
<p>Take down, re-cut, and hang MORE reclaimed wood</p>
<p>and right now we’re going through the process of using Spar Marine finish to make the wood in the bathroom completely waterproof with the same finish given to boats. </p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/h2dsblb0zfaowg.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/h2dsblb0zfaowg_small.jpg" alt="photo 5.JPG"></a></p>
<p>Steps to come are a couch/bed combo, plexiglass ceiling with AC unit, lights with deep cycle battiers/solar panels, and a bathroom :)</p>
<p>If you have any questions on how I went about doing it or any technical specifications write me and I’ll email you back: <a href="mailto:johndangerstorey@gmail.com">johndangerstorey@gmail.com</a></p>
<p>Live Small.</p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/minimalist-living2014-07-14T23:00:59-07:002014-07-14T23:00:59-07:00Minimalist Living<p>I love simplicity. <strong>Love it.</strong><br></p>
<p>Love people that help me achieve it in my life. Thank you Sam, James, Thoreau, and to my FedEx affectionally called the<br><br>
<a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/make-it-happen-wagon">Make it Happen Wagon</a>. </p>
<p>To give a quick intro, this is a video that coins the phase <strong>Less is More</strong> and is a great intro to anyone interested in editing their life to remove the unnecessary.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/L8YJtvHGeUU"></iframe>
<p>How long have we as a human race lived on this earth? Maybe 200,000 years give or take a few thousand? And all this time we’ve been able to survive on homes that are made from animal hides, mud, and trees…. until recently. Kind of amazing really. Yet how is it that we have advanced so far with technological advances, but yet still struggle to provide a basic living structure at a cheaper cost. We’ve done it with food, clothing…. but shelter seems to continue to rise and rise and rise. After starting to read Thoreau’s <em>Walden</em> (given to me by my fellow tech nomad) I have started to have some interesting viewpoints.</p>
<p><strong>1:</strong> Bought with Wasted Memories <br><br>
How much life is your dwelling worth? How many missed moments and memories is a granite counter top actually worth to you? How much time are you willing to spend on things you don’t want to do in order to buy the things you don’t even need, which you keep in a house you hardly spend time in because you are out working?</p>
<p>A little dramatic? Perhaps. But honestly when did you sit down and think through the thought process that made you want to buy a home that will take you anywhere from 15-30 years to pay back?</p>
<p>While in Peru (serving an LDS mission) I had the opportunity to engage in acts of service. One of which was helping build a families home. 12 young men came together, and after A SINGLE DAY we had her house built. ONE DAY! Granted it was no masterpiece, but still, she had what she viewed as necessary for her shelter after a single day of building. Amazing.</p>
<p>Imagine what you could do with the time you’d save if you didn’t HAVE to buy that house? And you honestly don’t! Thoreau’s view was something like this:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Most men appeared to never have considered what a house is, and are actually so needlessly poor all their lives because they think that they must have such a one as their neighbors have. </p>
<p>The farmer is endeavoring to solve the problem of a livelihood by a formula more complicated than the problem itself. To get his shoestrings he speculates in herds of cattle. With consummate skill he has set his trap with a hair spring to catch comfort and independence, and then, as he turned away, got his own leg into it. This is the reason he is poor; and for a similar reason we are all poor in respect to a thousand savage comforts, though surrounded by luxuries. </p>
</blockquote>
<p>I have long felt the need to live more simply. To eradicate that which I do not need in exchange for the time to do as I please. The pursuits of my soul mean more to me than the material status placed upon me by a social contract that I never agreed to sign, but still am expected to maintain. </p>
<p>I hope to have achieved my own independence from this social bondage through completion of my own living structure that I started working on this summer. It is a tiny house built inside of a FedEx truck I so lovingly call the <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/make-it-happen-wagon">Make it Happen Wagon</a>. If you ever have questions on how to simplify your life or just want to talk feel free to shoot me an email: <a href="mailto:johndangerstorey@gmail.com">johndangerstorey@gmail.com</a></p>
<p>Live Small. </p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/birthday-wisdom2014-02-04T23:09:29-08:002014-02-04T23:09:29-08:00Birthday Wisdom<p>The saying goes “one year older and wiser too”. Well, this is my collection of the things that have made people wiser over the course of their most recent year of life.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>“Make this the year you stop doing stuff you don’t want to do”</strong> <br> <em><a href="http://trackingfirst.com/">Craig Scribner</a>, Older</em></p>
<p><strong>“Be more grateful for where you are in life, as well as who you have in your life”</strong> <br> <em><a href="http://viraldownload.com/">Colter Wilson</a>, 27</em></p>
<p><strong>“Always sign a contract, and sign it as early as possible”</strong> <br> <em><a href="http://appraptors.com/">JD Tueller</a>, practically 30</em></p>
<p><strong>“If you want to see the hand of God, look. If you want to hear the voice of God, listen. If you want to feel the love of God, serve.”</strong> | <em><a href="http://www.bowlofoates.com/seeing-the-hand-of-god/">Zach Oates</a>, 28</em></p>
<p><strong>“Be useful, not innovative”</strong> | <em><a href="http://www.prefundia.com">Jeff Shwarting</a>, 27</em></p>
<p><strong>“Enjoy the moments in life that others only <em>DREAM</em> of having. Some people are blind and can’t even see the sky.</strong> | <em><a href="http://catponcho.com/">Jane Groom</a>, 18</em></p>
</blockquote>tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/5-steps-to-creating-a-beautiful-life2014-01-06T12:48:05-08:002014-01-06T12:48:05-08:00This is beautiful<p><em>July 24th</em></p>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HG8tqEUTlvs"></iframe>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KT16DcHcjRA"></iframe>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/FdW1CjbCNxw"></iframe>
<p>Triple for today in honor of the Pioneers. The top one I love because I love pioneers, the second for the quotes below, and the bottom one for the cinematography. </p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>You can’t beat death, but you can beat death in life… sometimes</strong></p></li>
<li><p><strong>Beyond the watch the gods will offer you chances… know them… take them.</strong></p></li>
<li><p><strong>Your life is YOUR life</strong></p></li>
<li><p><strong>It might not be MUCH light but it beats the darkness</strong></p></li>
<li><p><strong>The Gods wait to delight in you</strong></p></li>
</ul>
<hr>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>1</strong> Imagine beautiful things.</p>
<p><strong>2</strong> Create the beautiful things you imagine.</p>
<p><strong>3</strong> Tell people about beautiful things you’ve seen or made.</p>
<p><strong>4</strong> Surround yourself with people who also have found beauty.</p>
<p><strong>5</strong> Repeat until desired level of beauty is obtained.</p>
</blockquote><h1 id="here-is-a-collection-of-previous-beautiful-th_1">Here is a collection of previous beautiful things: <a class="head_anchor" href="#here-is-a-collection-of-previous-beautiful-th_1">#</a>
</h1>
<p><em>July 15th</em></p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/DKYJVV7HuZw"></iframe>
<p>I can’t believe I haven’t already introduced this video (there are actually multiple that I haven’t put on here, but will most likely be adding). This one is a smart little piece on being AWARE and GRATEFUL and AWESOME!!!! JK, but seriously it’s a great piece. Worth a watch and a share with everyone so we remember to be mindful of what so fully exists around us each moment of our life if we choose to tap into it.</p>
<p><em>June 9th</em></p>
<p><a href="https://stripe.com/checkout"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/2lkmwbsiabovcq_small.png" alt="Screen Shot 2014-06-09 at 5.46.28 PM.png"></a><br>
Okay, I’ve been developing for a while now and Stripe is awesome. Not that I just LOOOVE and oooze over online payments, but this tutorial was really engaging and…. well…. it sounds strange to say so, but it was FUN. <em>I in no way take responsibility for you visiting the site and not having the same amount of ‘fun’ that I had, okay, I develop… I like these things</em></p>
<p>It was like watching a youtube video without a youtube video, because all the action was done right on the screen. Just click the “show me” button <a href="https://stripe.com/checkout">on Stripe’s checkout site</a></p>
<p><em>Feb 17</em></p>
<p>This website is a great example of interactive media. It’s a game, yet it’s his resume as well. You almost have to finish the whole thing not necessarily to find out more about him… just to see how it finishes. Love it. <br>
Click here for an <a href="http://www.rleonardi.com/interactive-resume/">awesome website resume</a> <a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/jnlksg8pog66aq.png"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/jnlksg8pog66aq_small.png" alt="Screen Shot 2014-04-15 at 7.12.54 PM.png"></a></p>
<p><em>Feb 10</em></p>
<p>Amazing how something so simple and everyday can be turned into something mesmerizing and extraordinary.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/umfvm8I9_oU"></iframe>
<p><em>Feb 3</em></p>
<p>Probably the most beautiful game of ping-pong I have ever seen. The longer the play the more and more amazing it becomes. The level of sportsmanship and playfulness that exists between these two is outstanding.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/IE_ylD1VkHs"></iframe>
<p><em>Jan 27</em></p>
<p>This <a href="http://discover.store.sony.com/be-moved/">website made by Sony</a> explaining the collaboration between Artists and Engineers is absolutely beautiful. Creates an experience that one not only enjoys, but that one quickly becomes addicted to. I’ve already gone through the process twice not reading a thing, but just enjoying myself. It is that good. <a href="http://discover.store.sony.com/be-moved/">Click here</a> to experience it yourself. <br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hjusesnoncbisg.png"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hjusesnoncbisg_small.png" alt="Great UX"></a></p>
<p><em>Jan 20</em></p>
<p>Beautiful analogy about why we use technology in our lives and how it incorporates itself into the art, life, and poetry. What will your verse be?</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jiyIcz7wUH0"></iframe>
<p><em>Jan 13</em></p>
<p>Beautiful music, beautiful girl. </p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/iR_FIV8ESh8"></iframe>
<p><em>Jan 6</em></p>
<p>I love the feeling this gives me. Beautiful and mysterious.<br>
<img src="http://24.media.tumblr.com/9648c31b022042b513da6eb496fdc33d/tumblr_myp9mb1QNJ1st5lhmo1_1280.jpg" alt="Alt text"></p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/books-ive-read2014-01-01T23:44:13-08:002014-01-01T23:44:13-08:00Books I've Read<p>(work in progress)<br>
Here are the books I’ve read and what what I think about each one:</p>
<p><strong>Being George Washington: Biography</strong> - Beck<br><br>
Didn’t really like Beck’s personality, found a few things interesting about George Washington’s life, but it wasn’t as powerful as I had hoped. Most likely due to my own attitudes while reading the book.</p>
<p><strong>Walden</strong> - Thoreau<br><br>
Book given to me by a guy living out of his van. Great read for anyone who is interested in simplifying their life and enjoying more of the world around them. Below are some quotes that I really liked:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>We are all poor with respect to a thousand savage comforts, though surrounded by luxuries.</p>
<p>When the farmer has got his house, he may not be the richer but the poorer for it, and it be the house that has got him. For our houses are such unwieldy property that we are often imprisoned rather than housed in them. I know one or two families…who, for nearly a generation have been wishing to sell their house… and only death will set them free.</p>
<p>Most men appeared never to have considered what a house is, and are actually so needlessly poor all their ives because they think that they must have such a one as their neighbors have. </p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Civil Disobiedience</strong> - Thoreau<br><br>
Good views on slavery and what to do when you disagree with what the government is doing. Very short, but it made a lot of sense. Some of my favorite quotes were:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>There is but little virtue in the action of masses of men. When the majority shall at length vote for the avoliton of slavery, it will be because they are indifferent to slavery or because there is but little slavery left to be abolished by their vote.</p>
<p>Multum in Parvo - Much in Little</p>
<p>The rich man is always sold to the institution which makes him rich. Absolutely speaking, the more money, the least amount of virtue. For money comes between a man and his objects ad obtains them for him. The best thing a man can do for his culture when he is rich is to endeavor to carry out the schemes with rich he entertained when he was poor.</p>
<p>I cam not this world, not chiefly to make this a good place to live in, but to live in it, be it good or bad. A man has not everything to do, but something; and because he cannot do everything…</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>As a Man Thinketh</strong> - Allen<br><br>
Awakened my sense of thought. That we become what we think, and that we experience our own world from within our mind. We are free to mold and shape in into whatever place we desire, we must only think of it that way, and it will become. Careful, this is not to suggest that one must only think inside of their mind “I am happy” or “I am successful” or “I am rich” but must at their core perceive it as their reality in order for it to come to pass. (Although repeating phrases like this is a useful tool in helping develop the perception)</p>
<p><strong>On the Road</strong> - Karouac<br><br>
We are free. Do as you please. Be wild, be young, be reckless, for that give light and glamour and shimmer to the world. One of my favorites and appeals to my Gypsy Soul.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>the only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Fiesta: The Sun Also Rises</strong> - Hemingway<br><br>
Probably my favorite book of fiction. Made me feel nostalgic for telegraphs, month long vacations, and love affairs between friends, royalty, and bull fighters. A timeless classic, in my top 5.</p>
<p><strong>Mosquito Coast</strong> - Theroux<br></p>
<p><strong>Think and Grow Rich</strong> - Hill<br></p>
<p><strong>How to Change the World</strong> - Bernstien<br></p>
<p><strong>Les Miserables</strong> - Hugo<br></p>
<p><strong>Ethan Frome</strong> - Wharton<br></p>
<p><strong>Catcher in the Rye</strong> - Salinger<br></p>
<p><strong>How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It</strong> - Rawles<br></p>
<p><strong>Success Built to Last</strong> - Porras<br></p>
<p><strong>7 Habits of Highly Effective People</strong> - Covey<br></p>
<p><strong>The Old Man and the Sea</strong> - Hemingway<br></p>
<p><strong>The Pearl</strong> - Steinbeck<br></p>
<p><strong>The Complete Harry Potter Series</strong> - Rowling<br><br>
Kept me entertained and hooked the whole time. Didn’t really receive some sort of moral message or overriding principal from these, but they did keep me hooked. I almost considered it a societal responsibility to become aquatinted with these books because of the massive amounts of publicity they received.</p>
<p><strong>The Complete Lord of the Rings Series</strong> - Tolkien<br>
I read The Hobbit first, and then the 3 following Lord of the Rings, mainly because my mother liked them so much. Similiar to the Harry Potter seiries I didn’t learn much from these books, rather was entertained by them. These books later influenced my life when I set out on my own epic quest to become a extra in the movie “The Hobbit”. Here’s a video that explains more: <iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YPMcvdWxrcs"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Leadership and Self-Deception</strong> - Arbinger Institute<br><br>
I was made to read this book before going to work at Txtwire. It’s an illustration of the principal “Tread others as people, not as objects, or a way to complete your goals”. When you feel contention look inward and ask yourself if you’re looking at the other person as an object or as a person that has thoughts, opinions, and hopes just like you? Then try to look at it from their point of view. Kinda cliche, but a good book.</p>
<p><strong>Nail it and Scale it</strong> - Furr<br><br>
Sale before you build. That was my main take away. Before you actually do a project, try to sell it. It’ll save you money, time, and well…. will probably save your business.</p>
<p><strong>The Lean Startup</strong> - Ries<br><br>
Get out of the building, Pivot, Pivot, Pick Growth Engine, Pivot, Grow. All about how to learn what your customers want and the different strategies to grow once you’ve found the sweet spot. This book is referenced all the time, so I had to read it, but didn’t love it. </p>
<p><strong>4 Hour Work Week</strong> - Ferris<br><br>
It gives multiple tips on how to outsource your life and work less. The tips and tricks he gives are useful, but not really why I liked the book so much. It opened my eyes to thinking electronically, and how to distance and distribute work. It made me change careers (from film making to advertising) and I often cite it as one of the books (along with “As A Man Thinketh, and The Scriptures”) that changed my life.</p>
<p><strong>Outliers</strong> - Gladwell<br></p>
<p><strong>Tipping Point</strong> - Gladwell<br></p>
<p><strong>Atlas Shrugged</strong> - Rand<br></p>
<p><strong>Rich Dad Poor Dad</strong> - Kawasaki<br></p>
<p><strong>Book of Mormon</strong> - Multiple Authors<br></p>
<p><strong>Bible - New Testament</strong> - Multiple Authors<br></p>
<p><strong>Ender’s Game</strong> - Card<br></p>
<p><strong>Speaker for the Dead</strong> - Card<br></p>
<p><strong>Hitting the Sweet Spot</strong> - Cambell<br></p>
<p><strong>The Alchemist</strong> - Coelho<br></p>
<p><strong>Awakening to our Awful Situation</strong> - Monnett<br></p>
<p><strong>How to Win Friends and Influence People</strong> - Carnegie<br></p>
<p>–On my List–</p>
<p><strong>Earth: A Gift from God</strong></p>
<p><strong>Biography of George Washington</strong></p>
<p><strong>Good to Great</strong></p>
<p><strong>Influencer</strong></p>
<p><strong>Little Dorrit</strong></p>
<p><strong>Walden</strong></p>
<p><strong>Driven: Larry H. Miller</strong></p>
<p><strong>Imagine</strong> - Lehrer</p>
<p><strong>The Book of Doing</strong> - Arden</p>
<p><strong>Flow</strong> - Csikszentmihalyi</p>
<p><strong>Letters to a Young Poet</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Elements of Style</strong></p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/2k132014-01-01T13:37:55-08:002014-01-01T13:37:55-08:002K13<p>I’m practicing the habit of “Celebrating More” and in spirit of that I am not going to be looking forward to 2014, but rather look back to what went completely awesome this year. Here are my highlights:</p>
<p><strong>Mission Statement</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/2owsljrf8oujq.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/2owsljrf8oujq_small.jpg" alt="profile new.jpg"></a><br>
I will devout my time, talent, and ability to building the kingdom of God. I find untapped resources, and use them to show and empower others to unlock their own untapped potential through real and permanent lifestyle change that is more closely tied to their basic motives and needs. Love, respect, simplicity, order, and freedom are my driving principals.</p>
<p><strong>Spiritual</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hzpsfpr5jbmuq.png"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hzpsfpr5jbmuq_small.png" alt="spud.png"></a><br>
Wanted to become temple worthy this year so I started going back to church regularly and accomplishing a level of high activity in the church. Not just high level of <em>activity</em> but of <em>involvement</em>. Meaning to have fun and actually contribute to the lives of others. Doing so I have actually come to <strong>enjoy</strong> home teaching with nearly 100% all year. This picture is from a FHE activity that <em>could</em> have been really boring, but I did my best to make it fun and loved it. </p>
<blockquote class="short">
<p>This year I will read & pray everyday. Once a day, everyday using <a href="https://lift.do/plans">Lift</a></p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Physical</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/igq8p43akuzsw.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/igq8p43akuzsw_small.jpg" alt="buff pic.jpg"></a><br>
Didn’t have a measurable goal this year. Usually I have a marathon, triathlon, or some other goal. This year was just to maintain. Did that. </p>
<blockquote>
<p>This year I will do 20 minutes of stretching/yoga each time I work out. Also I hope to be more hydrated, tracking my progress in <a href="https://lift.do/">Lift</a>.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Educational</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hzufmiyrjf3jjg.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/hzufmiyrjf3jjg_small.jpg" alt="construction.jpg"></a><br>
This year was big one. Learned the process of buying a foreclosed HUD home, how to do construction and remodel a bathroom, and what it’s like to hold down a 9-5 job. </p>
<blockquote class="short">
<p>This year I will learn how to make a completely functional web app while attending [Dev Mountain](<a href="http://www.devmounta.in">www.devmounta.in</a>).</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Career</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/m7hzthbzkmotq.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/m7hzthbzkmotq_small.jpg" alt="sawenee.jpg"></a><br>
I had a full time job this year with [Txtwire](<a href="http://www.txtwire.com">www.txtwire.com</a>) that taught me a lot. I had the chance to work under Dan Beck, the CEO of his 6 year old startup, and admired his ability to treat people as people, believe in and empower others to achieve, and harbor a positive culture. I’ve read 8 books this year including: <br>
<em>Success Built to Last</em><br>
<em>Atlas Shrugged</em><br>
<em>The Lean Startup</em><br>
<em>7 Habits of Highly Effective People</em><br>
<em>How to Survive the End of the World as we Know It</em><br>
<em>Leadership and Self Deception</em><br>
<em>Speaker for the Dead</em><br>
<em>The 80/20 Principal</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This year I will start a mobile business and start writing my own book (taking the form of blog posts, and then compiling those thoughts into a book form when done)</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Living</strong><br>
<a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/8aifrkozyigbqw.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/8aifrkozyigbqw_small.jpg" alt="truck.jpg"></a><br>
Bought a <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/make-it-happen-wagon">decommissioned FedEx truck</a> to turn into a mobile live/work space. Really excited about this one. Visited the following communities:<br>
[Summit](<a href="http://www.summit.co">www.summit.co</a>)<br>
[Kalu Yala](<a href="http://www.kaluyala.com">www.kaluyala.com</a>)<br>
<a href="http://www.sewaneecreek.com/">The Village</a><br>
and compiled a <a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B6yWbSOHHK_pWjdGWGw1cE51Zzg&usp=sharing">list of resources</a> and knowledge for starting my own or at least contributing to another that has already started.</p>
<blockquote class="short">
<p>This year I will find the location for my future community that has both a great climate for growing and a reliable water source.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>If you would like to help me in any of these areas be sure to send me an email <em><a href="mailto:john@openapparatus.com">john@openapparatus.com</a></em>. I’d love to talk to you about your goals and see how we can collaborate towards a shared goal.</p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/make-it-happen-wagon2013-12-16T12:48:30-08:002013-12-16T12:48:30-08:00Make It Happen Wagon<p><a href="https://svbtleusercontent.com/2raeroqdexswaa.jpg"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/2raeroqdexswaa_small.jpg" alt="photo 1.JPG"></a></p>
<p>If you have seen my facebook feed or spoken to me over the past 2 months you probably have heard something about a “Make It Happen Wagon”, well now it has finally come time for me to well…. <strong>make it happen</strong>. </p>
<p>What started as a casual conversation about <a href="http://blog.openapparatus.com/2013/06/18/make-happen-wagon/">buying an old ice-cream truck</a> combined with my zest for <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/minimalist-living">minimalist living</a> has blossomed into the purchase of my very first, mobile hotel/office/live-space/kitchen/bedroom/yoga studio/recording booth/lair. </p>
<p>And boy… I am EXCITED!</p>
<p>What lays ahead in this crazy world for just a boy and his converted FedEx truck? There is no telling. Only one thing is sure: <em>it will probably cost way more money and take way longer than what I’m thinking it will right now.</em> But it will be 100% worth it because I’ll enjoy the process, and I want to see more of this in the world just like I explain in <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/money">my thoughts on money</a> but to get to the point… here is a brief accounting of what it’s cost so far: <a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/the-costs-of-making-it-happen">The Costs of Making it Happen</a></p>
<p>At the end of the day I recognize that RV’s already exist, that there are bigger problems I could tackle… but there is just something about this truck that keeps me really engaged. I guess it just goes back to one of my favorite maxims <strong>Follow your heart, but let your head do the steering</strong> <em>honk honk</em></p>
<h1 class="article_title">
<a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/and-so-it-begins-make-it-happen-wagon">Update - And So It Begins - July 15th 2014</a>
</h1>
<p><a href="http://johndangerstorey.svbtle.com/and-so-it-begins-make-it-happen-wagon"><img src="https://svbtleusercontent.com/rbet02cbnoohzg_small.jpg" alt="photo 1.JPG"></a></p>
tag:johndangerstorey.svbtle.com,2014:Post/money2013-11-27T10:08:30-08:002013-11-27T10:08:30-08:00Money<p>Money is an extremely powerful tool to be used and leveraged in order to amplify what you think is important. That is why we should not buy what is necessarily the easiest, but that which we wish to see more of. </p>
<p>It is a voting ballot, a voting ballot that in the end only matters if used to build relationships and happiness. </p>
<p>Spoken like a true networking <em>fiend</em> </p>
<p>In the past I’ve used money as a metric to prove how valuable I am and how good my ideas are, but I don’t necessarily believe in that anymore. Sometimes really bad ideas make a lot of money. <strong>However</strong>, good and bad ideas alike are valuable because people are willing to trade you their money in exchange for them. For example you will pay somewhere around $5 for nachos at the fair, and in contrast spend around a buck for the nachos you make with your friends as you watch a football game. The value is in the eye of the beholder, not necessarily the intrinsic value of the object. Make sense?</p>
<p>In the past, I’ve also used it as a form of friendship… think about it.</p>
<p>You have a friend that knows how to make chairs, you call him up, and you spend an afternoon together as you make a chair.</p>
<p><strong>BAM!</strong> </p>
<p>In contrast, you don’t know anyone that can make chairs, so you pay some stranger to make a chair for you. However, he lives in China or Ethiopia or somewhere else in the world so he conveniently keeps that chair for you stored away at Ikea where you trade your money for that man’s services.</p>
<p>Viewing money as friendship didn’t work out to hot for me. It had a negative effect socially and added un-needed stress on relationships. Because I expected my friends to do things for free I ,in essence, robbed them of their earning potential and power to effectively get other things done. I was debilitating my friend’s influence in the world. Essentially robbing them of their voting power. Plus everyone thought I was cheep, <em>and that’s just bad branding</em>. </p>
<p>So friendship can be used as a form of money, but money cannot always buy friends. The relationships that families and friends create with each other are not for sale. Relationships of this sort that are of any value can be <strong>SUPPORTED</strong> through money on dinners, presents, and just the typical activities, but they can never be <strong>REPLACED</strong> through pure monetary means. This makes these relationships incredibly valuable, more so than any currency.</p>
<p>We should pursue value, and relationships with people are valuable. </p>
<p>*P.S. My view may be slightly slanted because I moved away from my hometown where I had great friends to a town where I don’t know anyone in pursuit of a job, career, and money for an awesome company. </p>
<p>But I think I’ve made a mistake.* </p>
<p><strong>Notes</strong> some viewpoints and opinions are a reflection of others’ discussions including <a href="http://paraschopra.com/blog/personal/money-buys-freedom.htm">this one</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTQqFGLDdJ0">the d'Anconia philosophy from Atlas Shrugged</a> </p>