plus 1, minus 3

I just realized that it's one year since I was laid off. I wasn't out of work all that long (5 months isn't bad in this economy, or even last year's economy), and I'm not bitter or anything, but it's worth observing the anniversary.

Speaking of layoffs, the MSPCA is closing 3 animal shelters. Fortunately Nevins Farm, where I volunteer, is not affected, but this still sucks. More people are having to surrender animals due to the economy, and there will be fewer places for them to do so.

(no subject)

In other news, I just took possession of a Canon EOS 1000D/Rebel XS. For about $100 more than a refurbished 400D with kit lens, or $50 more than a refurb 400D body with refurb Image Stabilization lens, I got a new 1000D (sold only as a kit, with the IS lens). I have no objection to refurbs, and have bought plenty of other refurb items, but the 1000D has a few other advantages over the 400D/XTi:
+ Live View
+ auto ISO
+ ISO in viewfinder
+ high ISO noise reduction
+ much better battery
+ 54 grams lighter
+ SD vs. Compact Flash (smaller, cheaper, and even my netbook can read it)
- 7 point autofocus, versus 9 point
- no IR shutter release (not that I have any kind of remote at the moment)

c1 knows I'm going to outgrow it, but I have to grow into it first. Gonna be fun.