Yak Shaving -- [MIT AI Lab, after 2000: orig. probably from a Ren & Stimpy episode.] Any seemingly pointless activity which is actually necessary to solve a problem which solves a problem which, several levels of recursion later, solves the real problem you're working on.

#730 Firefox Tip -- URL Fixer is an extension for Firefox (or other Mozilla-based web browsers) that corrects typos in URLs that you enter in the address bar. For example, if you type google.con, it will correct it to google.com (asking first, if you enable confirmation). HT: Lifehacker)

#731 Online Tool -- bubbl.us offers a simple online mind mapping application. You write your thoughts in bubbles, which you can then connect to other bubbles, allowing you to quickly jot down and map your ideas. (HT: Lifehacker)

#732 Google School -- Google Maps has added multiple destination points to their popular mapping tool. To add multiple destinations to your trip, just click the Add destination link below the directions and add as many touchpoints as you want. (Lifehacker)

#733 HowTo -- Burn (almost) any video file to a playable DVD

#734 Download of the Week -- CCleaner is an excellent freeware program that optimizes your PC by removing various kinds of system detritus, such as temp files, old Registry entries, and invalid shortcuts. It also helps promote privacy by allowing you the option to delete your browser's URL history, cookies, etc. (HT: Lifehacker)

See also: The Yak Shaving Razor Archives

Have a useful recommendation for making life more pleasant? Send them to me at jpcarter[at]evangelicaloutpost.com.