Welcome to my website

I have recently moved to the wonderful state of Colorado from Denmark. Still trying to get used to seeing the mountains every day coming from a country where the highest point is 561 feet above sea level. But I love it, and can't wait to spend many more years here. Exploring all the beautiful things to see in this amazing state and country.

Making a Meaningful Change: My Journey to Regular Plasma Donation

Late in 2023, as the year drew to a close, I found myself pondering the age-old question: What's my New Year's resolution going to be this time? I've always enjoyed setting myself challenges for the upcoming year, whether it's learning a new skill or adopting a daily habit. However, as I reflected on the past year's resolutions, I realized I wanted to do something more impactful in 2024.

That's when it hit me. Instead of another personal challenge, why not do something that could benefit others? After some contemplation, I made a decision that felt both daunting and immensely rewarding—I resolved to start donating plasma regularly.

Let me be honest. Needles and I haven't always been on the best of terms. While I've never been outright afraid of them, they certainly weren't my favorite thing in the world. But I was determined to push past my discomfort for a greater cause.

Fast-forward to today. What once felt like a daunting task has become a routine part of my week. Twice a week, without hesitation, I head to the donation center and give what I can.

Not only have I overcome my fear of needles, but I've also found a sense of fulfillment in knowing that my contributions are making a difference to the lives of others. It's amazing how a simple resolution can lead to such a meaningful journey.

So, if you're considering making a New Year's resolution that goes beyond the usual self-improvement goals, I encourage you to think about giving back. Whether it's donating plasma, volunteering your time, or supporting a cause close to your heart, you'll be amazed at the impact you can make. Trust me, it's worth every moment of discomfort because of the difference you'll create in the world.

Rebuilding my Website Using NEXT.JS

On the recommendation of a good friend of mine, who happens to be a software engineer. I decided to take the leap, and rebuild my website using the NEXT.JS framework. Before it was built in HTML, CSS, and a very limited amount of JAVA. I also made the switch from “clean CSS”, where I wrote every line in the CSS file, to using Tailwind. There was definitely an initial learning curve to overcome. But, after making it through the initial struggles, patiently guided by set friend from time to time. I feel like I have come out the other side, and am definitely seeing, and benefiting from using the NEXT.JS framework, and Tailwind CSS. There is no doubt that any future websites I make will be done using NEXT.JS as well.

I Started my Own Company

I recently started a single-member LLC named AmbMar, LLC. The name is an abbreviation of my wife's name Ambur and my name Mark. I started the company by doing freelance work as a software tester for RWS Group. But I’m hoping to expand what I do with the company to include website development for other small businesses. I’m already working on my first website, and hoping for more to come down the line.

Switching From Windows to Linux on my Daily Computer

On New Year's Eve 2021 I set myself the New Year's resolution of learning Linux and some computer programing. That decision is what led me to be able to make this website from scratch by myself. It started my interest in Python and BASH programing. I still have tons of things I would like to learn within the room of programing. Especially when it comes to Machine Learning (ML). And after 10 months of using Linux as my daily operating system on my computer, I don't think I will go back to Windows. Of course, there are still some features I miss about Windows, but the list becomes smaller and smaller almost daily as I find alternatives to the programs I used to use that only run on Windows.

Current Book

Brick by Brick: How LEGO Rewrote the Rules of Innovation and Conquered the Global Toy Industry

Short summery of the book

'Brick by Brick: How LEGO Rewrote the Rules of Innovation and Conquered the Global Toy Industry' delves into the fascinating journey of LEGO, from its humble beginnings as a small Danish company to becoming one of the most iconic and beloved toy brands worldwide. Author David Robertson explores how LEGO managed to innovate continuously, adapt to changing market landscapes, and maintain its relevance over decades. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book unveils the strategic decisions, creative breakthroughs, and leadership principles that propelled LEGO to its remarkable success. Readers are taken on a journey through the ups and downs of the company, learning valuable lessons about resilience, creativity, and the power of strategic innovation. 'Brick by Brick' is not just a story about toys; it's a testament to the enduring power of imagination and innovation in business.

The book can be purchased here.

Understanding the Math Behind a Mortgage

I have always liked math. So, when my wife and I started to look at houses in early 2022, I decided to sit down and look into the math behind a mortgage. It is going to be the biggest investment of my life by far. So, I wanted to understand how it worked. What does an interest rate of 4.75% mean in dollars at the end of the mortgage period? How much of the monthly payments go to pay interest, and how much goes to pay down the principal of the mortgage? What is the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP), and how do you avoid having to pay it? All of these questions were bouncing around in my head, so I decided to find the answers. This resulted in a homemade mortgage calculator made in LibreOffice Calc (a free version of Microsoft Excel used on Linux).

A complete mortgage calculator for a 15 or 30 year fixed interest mortgage can be downloaded here.