Digital Locksmiths: When’s the Last Time You Paid for Keys?

A witty and critical look at how SSL certificates are sold, comparing them to real-world house keys — full of personality and practical insights on digital security.

Fireworks, Reflections and Recharged Batteries

A reflective New Year’s Eve moment: fireworks light up the sky as a camera fails, reminding us to embrace the present, recharge, and start fresh. A story of 2008 and new beginnings.

The McDonald’s Story

From my first Saturday job in 1996 at a computer retailer Coffee Saved My Day Once Before This coffee theme reminds me of a story from my first job in 1996. Every Saturday, I worked at a computer retailer to pay for my information science study. One morning, the store manager reported late. Painfully, she […]

Finally Lifting Off: Welcome to Mike’s Mind!

Just a day before we’ll enjoy the fireworks. Time to take the bull by the horns and at last (or least) launch my personal journal Mike’s Mind right here at Van-Zand.com1. I searched for a literal sweet spot for quite a while to share worthy discoveries with you and our community. Some place cozy and […]