Posts

Wake Up to an SMS Message

February 18, 2024

Problem statement:

Automate a way to guarantee waking up when an SMS message is received from specified phone numbers.

Debian Linux Initial Setup Guide

November 12, 2023

Whenever I buy a computer or have to re-install the operating system, I find myself gravitating towards Debian-based Linux distributions for the operating system. In the recent past, this has included Ubuntu, Raspberry Pi OS, and Pop!_OS. I have to run through very similar initial steps to get started with all of these, so it’s about time to document them!

Setting Up Zigbee With Home Assistant

November 22, 2022

Now that my Home Assistant server is set up, it’s time to start adding device integrations! But… there’s some choices to make before diving into this and buying new smart devices. Let’s break those down!

Getting Started With Home Assistant

November 15, 2022 · 10 min read

I have been spending some time learning more about cybersecurity, and the more I learn the more I become suspicious of the internet connected devices that I use on a daily basis. For example, I’m a daily user of WiFi smart plugs. I love being able to remotely schedule my lights to turn on and off, or simply just turn on all of the living room lights without having to individually toggle all of the lamps.

Switching Between Java Versions

February 16, 2022 · 5 min read

Problem: How do I quickly change between Java versions in the terminal?

Stop for the Sunrise

January 31, 2022 · 2 min read

Sometimes I need to slow down and remind myself to appreciate the little things - like the sun rising/setting every single day. Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been feeling a little down. Whether it’s from the short winter days, stress about making big decisions, what’s going on in the news, or just being exhausted from work, I feel like I don’t spend always spend enough time appreciating the little things that make me smile.

Starting a blog with Hugo... lots to learn!

January 16, 2022 · 5 min read

The other day, I watched a YouTube presentation called “Give Yourself a Blog for Christmas” that one of my favorite podcasters, Jack Rhysider, shared. Jack argued that anyone can benefit from a podcast, whether it’s for posting documentation to look back on later or to share out ideas for others to benefit from on the vast internet.