Mostly we code...sometimes we write. Every once in a while, we podcast.

I am not the biggest fan of snow.  I think every Christmas should have snow as there is nothing quite like a 'white Christmas' to warm the heart.  Just thinking of a night slay ride through the woods with the snow gently falling, trees decorated in lights, and the fresh scent of pine and sugar cookies in the air is nothing short of perfect.  But its not ever like that!!!  I can't remember the last time I had a slay ride, and the woods at night is really just kind of creepy.  Additionally, the snow never seems to fall gently in Minneapolis.  The snow is either a blizzard or sleet push around by treacherous winds smacking you in your ice cold face.  Unfortunately, I live in Minnesota where snow is a very real possibility from October to May.  So on April 3, I am officially declaring the weather to stop with the snow and give us citizens the sun we deserve.

Writing about things that I want changed has opened up my eyes to other changes I think we should see made today.  In addition to the weather, I want to see Microsoft come clean and change its new advertising slogan.  Instead of 'I'm a PC', I'd like to see the truth 'you're stuck with me like it or not'.  I'd also like to see the State of Minnesota make a change and take some initiative.  They can start by PICKING A SENATOR ALREADY and follow it up with lowering my taxes, refusing government bail out money, and placing a greater emphasis on supporting small businesses (the backbone of the new economy).  Finally, I'd like my 10 year old dog to make a change and stop making messes (you know what I mean) in the house.  If my three year old daughter can use the potty, I want my 10 year old dog to do the same. 

The purpose of this blog isn't just to rant.  Its also about hope.  We're already seeing some change... the weather is getting nicer, the state courts are upholding Franken's senatorial lead, my daughter is using the potty (of course my dog is oblivious to this little tidbit), and users do have choices when it comes to Microsoft.  In the coming months, CrossOver 8.0 will be released.  While not perfect, 8.0 will take significant steps to reducing the dependency on the Microsoft operating systems.  With some liberation from XP, Vista, and soon to be 7, users will be able to freely move from Windows to Macs to even Linux with little concern for compatible applications.  Imagine a world where users can choose what's best for them based on what's best for them.  That would be nothing short of perfect!

About James B. Ramey
James B. Ramey is the CEO of CodeWeavers. His life long love of video gaming started at the tender age of six with an Atari 2600 and evolved over time to include Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Apple Mac IIc, Windows PC, and MacBook Pro. When not fiddling with technology, James enjoys cooking, travel, debating politics in the office, and spending time with his wife, daughter, and their two rescue dogs. For the past 20 years, James has worked with clients around the world in best implementing technology to maximize a return on their investment. He is a graduate of Moorhead State University and earned his MBA from the University of Phoenix. You can find James on Twitter at @jbramey.