# OpenRiver
> Written by one person about books, media, projects, and the thoughts they set off.
Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts.
Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).
## Pages
### About this site
URL: https://openriver.net/about/
Last updated: 2026-10-11T05:14:37.000Z
OpenRiver is an independent publication launched in October 2026 by Chris Burrows. If you subscribe today, you'll get full access to the website as well as email newsletters about new content when it's available. Your subscription makes this site possible, and allows OpenRiver to continue to exist. Thank you!
### Access all areas
By signing up, you'll get access to the full archive of everything that's been published before and everything that's still to come. Your very own private library.
### Fresh content, delivered
Stay up to date with new content sent straight to your inbox! No more worrying about whether you missed something because of a pesky algorithm or news feed.
### Meet people like you
Join a community of other subscribers who share the same interests.
---
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### Contact Card
URL: https://openriver.net/links/
Last updated: 2026-10-12T02:51:11.000Z
### **Fediverse**
- [Bookwyrm](https://bookwyrm.openriver.net/user/chris)
- [Mastodon](https://mastodon.openriver.net/@chris)
- [Lemmy](https://links.openriver.net/u/chris)
- [Pixelfed](https://pix.openriver.net/chris)
## Posts
### Valentine's Day
URL: https://openriver.net/writing/valentines-day/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T16:53:41.000Z
Sinking to the top of the ball as it turns
To spread precisely in the gloaming
Upon heavy weight parchment,
Where river rapids flow out of hand-stitched binding,
And play upon passing remembrances,
The ink fills the moment as it dries,
Against the backdrop of the concerns of children sat under a Kentucky coffee tree.
Humid is the evening air still within the garden,
Where warble and calls the whip-poor-will,
Ancient songs exposed by the loss of understory.
Solemn pelts of swollen pearls
By westerly wind the rain arrives;
And the walks and alleys echo it;
With its thrumming and pulsing;
With its sounding and cool, hushed whispers.
And I wished for rivers past and you.
I wanted to see you gardening in the rain,
Wild and soaked, dripping muddy water.
Later Antares beat for Scorpius,
In sky framed by the bedroom window,
And your slumbered breathing, my darling girl, was laden with calm beauty.
A clear night sky, the airplane purling, and you in my arms securely.
### Rearview (ft. Hattie)
URL: https://openriver.net/music/rearview-ft-hattie/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T03:03:00.000Z
### Mean to You
URL: https://openriver.net/music/mean-to-you/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:49:31.000Z
### Mad World
URL: https://openriver.net/music/mad-world/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:56:03.000Z
### Carry the Zero
URL: https://openriver.net/music/carry-the-zero/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:48:10.000Z
### Rearview (Ft. the Kids)
URL: https://openriver.net/music/rearview-ft-the-kids/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:34:30.000Z
### Waving at You
URL: https://openriver.net/music/waving-at-you/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:09:22.000Z
### Lead Me Back to You
URL: https://openriver.net/music/lead-me-back-to-you/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:00:50.000Z
### Night of the Mules -- Messages from my future wife
URL: https://openriver.net/music/night-of-the-mules-messages-from-my-future-wife/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T02:20:34.000Z
### I See a Darkness
URL: https://openriver.net/music/i-see-a-darkness/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:57:01.000Z
### Kicked it in the Sun
URL: https://openriver.net/music/kicked-it-in-the-sun/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T01:45:43.000Z
### Attention All Pickpockets
URL: https://openriver.net/music/attention-all-pickpockets/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T00:42:12.000Z
### Genesis 19:1-3
URL: https://openriver.net/music/genesis-19-1-3/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T00:26:10.000Z
### Secret of an Easy Yoke
URL: https://openriver.net/music/secret-of-an-easy-yoke/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:47:31.000Z
### Maybe Not
URL: https://openriver.net/music/maybe-not/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:57:23.000Z
### Candyland
URL: https://openriver.net/music/candyland/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:58:35.000Z
### Even
URL: https://openriver.net/music/even/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:59:09.000Z
### Sun Kil Moon -- Ben's My Friend
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/sun-kil-moon-bens-my-friend/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:08:23.000Z
_No content available._
### Joanna Newsom - Half a Day
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/joanna-newsom-half-day/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:49:05.000Z
NEW JOANNA NEWSOM TUNE!!!!
### Childish Gambino - Bonfire
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/childish-gambino-bonfire/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:19:06.000Z
_No content available._
### Grado SR60i Mods
URL: https://openriver.net/projects/grado-sr60i-mods/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:23:22.000Z
I had a sick day from work today and couldn't sleep. I put on my headphones, the Grado SR60i, to listen to some music and found myself wishing they had better bass. I've read of several mods in the past and decided it wouldn't be too hard to do these on a sick day.
**Coin Mod**
This one was very simple. All that is to be done is to remove the ear cushions. Place a coin in the middle of the cushion, press down hard and use a knife to cut around the perimeter of the coin. The point of this mod is to remove a filter between your ear and the driver. You can see below that a grill cloth still remains on top of the plastic. Some people appear to remove this cloth as well, but I intend to make wooden cans to replace the plastic ones and decided to leave the cloth in place for now.
**Vent and Damp Mod**
This next mod is what brings out the bass. After all is done, I seem to have a little harsher high frequency sound. I would have added some felt for dampening the plastic chamber if I had some, but since I intend to build wood cans I felt this would do for now. Overall the sound is much improved with these mods.
1\. First I had to pull open the plastic cans. I used a hair dryer to heat the plastic and glue and then had to use some force to pull them apart.
2\. Once the cans are apart you'll notice that there are 10 holes lined around the driver and a cloth covering all 10 holes. Use a screw driver and gently twist and puncture the cloth over 2-3 of the holes. Some folks appear to knock all 10 out. I punched out 3 on each side and was happy with the outcome. This may be personal preference. I also affixed a small amount of blue-tak on the back of each driver to help dampen the sound. I was sure not to cover the holes on the driver.
3\. The last thing I did was punch out the plastic grill on the front of each can. Grado glues a small plastic circle in the middle of the grills and I was concerned I didn't have a good way to dampen this. I will probably find something interesting to put in place of the plastic grill at some point.
My first test track of the Gloaming by Radiohead and the bass was amazing!
### SOAK - Sea Creatures
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/soak-sea-creatures/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:32:55.000Z
_No content available._
### Alison Krauss - Down to the River to Pray
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/alison-krauss-down-to-river-to-pray/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:14:28.000Z
_No content available._
### Rival Dealer - Burial/Come Down to Us
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/burial-come-down-to-us/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:16:30.000Z
_No content available._
### Mutual Benefit - Golden Wake
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/mutual-benefit-golden-wake/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:29:36.000Z
_No content available._
### Chvrches -- Do I Wanna Know? (Arctic Monkey's Cover)
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/chvrches-do-i-wanna-know-arctic-monkeys/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:11:49.000Z
_No content available._
### Waxahatchee - 3 Song Set
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/waxahatchee-3-song-set/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:35:05.000Z
I wish they would show the amp she is using during this set. I like the jangley sounds she is making with this guitar.
### The Mountain Goats - You Were Cool (LIVE)
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/the-mountain-goats-you-were-cool-live/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:31:33.000Z
John Darnielle is the Mountain Goats. I could listen to him all day long. I usually do!
### Home made Caramel (No Cream, No Milk)
URL: https://openriver.net/writing/home-made-caramel-no-cream-no-milk/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:41:54.000Z
Tonight I wanted to make a quick dessert for my wife. I had plenty of apples, but no milk or cream to use to make caramel. Here is how I made some that went over just fine.
Ingredients
1 cup water
2 Tablespoons Butter
3 Tablespoons Sugar
.5 teaspoons Salt
\----------------------
3 Tablespoons Cold Water Mixed with 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
Step 1: Add water and butter to pan, melt the butter. Add sugar and salt and heat to boil. Reduce the heat.
Step 2: Slowly stir in cornstarch\\water mixture. Simmer, stirring to prevent burning, take off heat once you have a desired consistency.
Enjoy.
### Anthony and The Johnsons -- Her Eyes are Underneath the Ground
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/anthony-and-johnsons-her-eyes-are/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:33:44.000Z
_No content available._
### CHVRCHES -- The Mother We Share
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/chvrches-mother-we-share/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:40:58.000Z
I can't help myself, this album is just too catchy. Here is another song.
### New Stereo Setup
URL: https://openriver.net/projects/new-stereo-setup/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:14:45.000Z
I call my website "The Stereo Lab". This was an idea of mine while I was expecting my first child. I pictured our home having a large room with a stereo and work spaces for each family member. No TV! I pictured us creating, making and learning together in this room as a family. My 2nd child was born recently and when I returned home from a long stay in the hospital I was ready for a mini-project. Mini-project because I have no time for real projects right now. I decided that we would need something other than a laptop with USB powered speakers if I wanted to make a real life Stereo Lab.
Here were my problems:
1. All of my music is digital and stored on a personal computer not available for family use. This is the computer I use to rip CDs and purchase music on. I needed any changes to this music library to be mirrored on the device serving the music in the family room.
2. The only device I had to serve music to the family room was a laptop with a non-functioning keyboard and trackpad, and with a broken screen.
3. The only speakers I had were USB powered and sounded awful.
4. I had only $180 to use towards this project.
1\. Automatically Syncing My Media Library with the Family Room Stereo
I turned to a free tool to accomplish this task: [SyncBack Free](http://www.2brightsparks.com/freeware/freeware-hub.html) by [2BrightSparks](https://www.facebook.com/2BrightSparks). This is a great piece of software that lets you easily backup, synchronize and mirror directories either on the same local machine or across your network. In my case I created a share on the broken laptop and had SyncBack Free mirror my music library to this directory daily. Any new music I add to the collection or unwanted music I remove is then added\\removed from the laptop's library within 24 hours.
2\. Accessing Music on a Laptop with No Working Inputs and a Broken Screen.
I considered attaching a computer monitor and external keyboard and mouse to the laptop. This takes a lot of space and was not an option for me. I have a Nexus 4 phone and my wife a Nexus 7\. My next idea was to use these devices to control the stereo.
I first needed to setup my media player on the broken laptop. The player that best fit my needs was [foobar2000](http://www.foobar2000.org/) which is, in my opinion, the best media player for windows. It is open source, light weight, and very customizable. It is also free!
On the Android side, I installed an app called [foobar2000 controller PRO](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cav.foobar2000controllerpro) by Sergi Mola. It costs $1.49 per device and was a great bargain. From this app on my android devices I can access my foobar music library and network shares. It has a lock screen widget and a standard widget with the PRO version. A free version is also available for testing purposes. Note that in order for this app to work with foobar I needed to install the foo\_httpcontrol component and follow[ these instructions](http://foobar2000controller.blogspot.com.es/p/how-to-start.html).
3\. Stereo Equipment
To obtain a more enjoyable listening experience I needed to upgrade from my USB powered speakers. Being somewhat new to this area I decided to consult Professor Google for an education. I knew I wanted a 2.0 or 2.1 setup, but I was unfamiliar with which equipment and brands were desirable. The consensus seemed to be to purchase used equipment in good shape. Craigslist had slim pickings and I wanted something setup before my baby came home. Then I came across a very well informed gentleman by the handle of Zeos. I followed a thread he started on his [subreddit](http://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/1fu7an/21%5Fsystem%5Foptions%5Fideas/). He also has some enjoyable reviews on his [youtube channel](http://www.youtube.com/user/ZE0SPantera).
I pieced together this system:
[Behringer UCA202 DAC -- $29.99](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KW2YEI?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwpuresimula-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B000KW2YEI) (to convert my digital collection to analog)
[Topping TP21 Amp -- $71.50](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CRLZGE/ref=as%5Fli%5Fss%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005CRLZGE&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwpuresimula-20) (to power the speakers)
[Dayton Audio B652 Speakers -- $51.99](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002RMPHMU/ref=as%5Fli%5Ftf%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwpuresimula-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002RMPHMU)
I did not have enough money for the 2.1 system, but when I buy an amp I most likely will go for the [Dayton Audio Sub-1000](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0063NU3AA/ref=as%5Fli%5Fss%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwpuresimula-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0063NU3AA).
In 2 days time everything was delivered and setup. The system sounds amazing, especially for the price. This will also allow me to make modular upgrades as funds become available.
4\. I spent just under $180 for everything shipped.
I had a good time learning a little about audio equipment. I can say my music sounds significantly better with this equipment and the family is really enjoying gathering around the stereo together.
### Chvrches - Gun
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/chvrches-gun/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:36:12.000Z
I can't stay away from these Scottish artists it would seem. I checked with my "guy" and he assures me this is pronounced "Cha Ver Ches"
### Jolie Holland - Delia
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/jolie-holland-delia/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:19:43.000Z
One of my favorite artists doing a very nice live performance.
### The XX - Angels
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/the-xx-angels/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:35:16.000Z
This album overall is really very calm, bordering on boring. The opening track is just great though. I like to play it loud and really "feel" it.
### Fever Ray - If I Had A Heart
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/fever-ray-if-i-had-heart/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:25:02.000Z
This video is pretty freaky. I love this song quite a bit.
### Tavern Sandwiches
URL: https://openriver.net/writing/tavern-sandwiches/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:38:34.000Z
Ingredient List
1 Pound Ground Chuck
1 Red Onion
3/4 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
1 Tablespoon Yellow Mustard
1 Tablespoon Black Vinegar
Buns
Do This:
1\. Preheat cast iron skillet on medium high heat.
2\. Finely chop the onion.
3\. Add chuck to the skillet on 1 side and onion on the other.
4\. As chuck browns and onion cookies, begin to mix together.
5\. When chuck is browned, add maple syrup, mustard and black vinegar, stir.
6\. Add water to the skillet to cover meat, stir.
7\. Simmer until water is gone from the pan.
Serve on toasted buns.
### Learn to Code Online... For Free
URL: https://openriver.net/projects/learn-to-code-online-for-free/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:27:06.000Z
I was looking for a online community to participate in while brushing up on my coding skills when I came across Code Academy. The Code Academy offers lessons in learning to code in java script, html/css, python, ruby, jQuery, and with projects such as building web applications. The lessons range from basic to moderate levels of difficulty and both helpful and fun. This would be great for children to learn to code as well. Give it a try.
### Willie Nelson - The Scientist
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/willie-nelson-scientist/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:25:38.000Z
I came across this cover a few weeks ago. I spent the better part of an evening practicing the song on guitar and having a great time. Video below.
### Baby, Toddler Sign Language
URL: https://openriver.net/writing/baby-toddler-sign-language/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:31:29.000Z
We taught my 2 year old daughter sign language. What was initially a novelty in my mind has become the most useful tool we have for bonding with our daughter, remaining patient with parenting and ensuring our daughter is content. When my daughter is hungry she doesn't have to cry or fuss. Rather she can tell me she is hungry, and can even request a particular snack or meal. She can request toys and songs by name and can ask to see relatives or friends by name. My daughter is better able to inquire and learn about her environment because of signing.
We began by watching signing time videos and looking up signs for common objects and activities. We later began allowing our daughter to watch a signing time video every few days. We haven't otherwise allowed her to see television or videos and so she was particularly interested in seeing the videos. We began using sign along with spoken language whenever possible.
Signing time videos are available from most libraries and online.
### General Tso's Chicken
URL: https://openriver.net/writing/general-tao-chicken/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:40:44.000Z
General's Chicken is my favorite menu item to order at Chinese Restaurants. It is often listed as a "chef's special" and sold for $8 - $12\. This is surprising considering how easy it is to make. I arrived at this recipe after much trial and error. I'm no expert, but this recipe is very popular at my house. Give it a try.
Wok:
I recommend using a Wok whenever you are stir frying at home. If you don't have a wok and would like more information, [try reading this website.](http://www.thaifoodandtravel.com/features/wok1.html)
Make The Sauce:
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons of Rice Wine
- 3 Tablespoons of Rice Vinegar
- 6 Tablespoons of Soy Sauce
- 6 Tablespoons of Sugar
- 4 Teaspoons of minced Garlic
- 1 Teaspoons of chopped Ginger
- 10 Dried Chilis
- 2 Teaspoon of chopped Green Onion (use the firmer portion near the end)
- 6 Teaspoons of Corn Starch
- 1/2 Cup Pinneapple Juice or Chicken Broth
Combine ingredients, stir until well mixed. You can vary amounts to taste. For instance the ginger and garlic can be over powering and you may use less or more. I have added honey in the past with some success, as well as orange marmalade. Be creative!
Meat:
The amount of meat you want to put with your stir fry is up to you. The above sauce recipe should be plenty for about a half a pound (for a saucier stir fry) to a pound (for a less saucy stir fry). I like mine to have extra sauce for the rice. I have used both chicken breast and thinly cut pork.
Veggies:
Again this is up to you. I like to add Water Chestnuts, green onions, and peanuts to my stir fry.
The wife prefers green beans, orange peppers, and broccoli with hers. Both taste wonderful.
Cooking:
Heat your wok with nothing in it until it begins to smoke. You'll want to stir fry on very high heat. Add oil (I use wok oil from the Asian aisle) depending on the amounts you are cooking and how well seasoned your wok is.
Cook the meat until nearly done, add the veggies beginning with the firmest, one at a time. Cook each until you begin to get the aroma and then add the next in line.
You can push the meat and other veggies up the side of the wok as you cook to prevent burning.
Finally, add the sauce mixture and cook until the sauce thickens. Usually 2 - 3 minutes will do.
### Gogol Bordello
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/gogol-bordello/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T01:22:15.000Z
I discovered Gogol Bordello today. This is a unique and wonderful group. Their music can be best described as Gypsy Punk. They are known for electric and energetic concerts and a gypsy-like lifestyle as they nearly constantly travel and tour. Have a listen to these guys!
### Mates of State - Get Better
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/mates-of-state-get-better/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:43:43.000Z
I've been watching this video quite a bit lately. I really enjoy the song itself, but this is one of those rare music videos which really add something to the song. Of course the most interesting scene for me is the lead up to the vest detonating. The expressive looks on the animals face (especially the owl and rabbit) really sell the story line to me. Check out this video from Mates of State.
### Acquire A Cappella
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/acquire-cappella/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:56:43.000Z
Saw this today. It is pretty cool.
0:00
/2:54
1×
### Camera Obscura
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/camera-obscura/
Last updated: 2026-10-19T00:12:39.000Z
A friend introduced me to[ Camera Obscura](http://www.last.fm/music/Camera+Obscura) last year. They are a great band, and they are coming to Iowa City this spring for all you Iowans.
### The Antlers - Hospice
URL: https://openriver.net/listening/antlers-hospice/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:38:33.000Z
I came across a great new band, [The Antlers](http://www.last.fm/music/The+Antlers). Their new album, Hospice is a concept album. The story teller meets a cancer patient while working in a hospital cancer ward. He falls in love, but the woman becomes abusive and difficult to care for. As the album progresses she dies with our story teller by her side.
This album wields a surprisingly powerful ability to stir the listener's emotions. It is one of the best albums I have listened to in quiet awhile.
I encourage the reader to purchase this album as it is really meant to be listened to from start to finish.
### There Will Be No Divorce
URL: https://openriver.net/music/there-will-be-no-divorce/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:59:31.000Z
### Engine
URL: https://openriver.net/music/engine/
Last updated: 2026-10-24T23:59:55.000Z
### Gateway GT5628 and Windows 7
URL: https://openriver.net/projects/gateway-gt5628-and-windows-7/
Last updated: 2026-10-18T21:20:03.000Z
This is just a note to everyone out there who owns a Gateway GT5628 and cannot get windows 7 installed.
You are probably getting this error:
**“A required CD/DVD drive device driver is missing. If you have a driver floppy disk, CD, DVD, or USB flash drive, please insert it now”**
After hours of cursing and troubleshooting I figured out this is because you have an ATA\\ATAPI DVD drive. I googled around for awhile and most people were recommending purchasing a new SATA DVD drive. However, *you do not need to do that*.
I tried tons of different drivers off of the Gateway website, because of course the ones it says are drivers for this model's DVD drive are not. [Here are the drivers you need.](http://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B6kWKknICXzYMWU2YjVlZGQtZDY3My00ZTliLTgxMDYtMDZmODVmODAwYTdi&hl=en)
Enjoy Windows 7.
### Fall of the Star High School Running Back
URL: https://openriver.net/music/fall-of-the-star-high-school-running-back/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T00:00:35.000Z
### Nature
URL: https://openriver.net/music/nature/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T00:01:11.000Z
### Death
URL: https://openriver.net/music/death/
Last updated: 2026-10-25T00:02:25.000Z
