Remember book fairs? What an exhilarating day in every kid’s life. Brightly colored books, filled with captivating stories and beautiful illustrations displayed around the room—not to mention any toys or candy for sale! For me, the book fair was mostly an opportunity to use my parent’s cash for Pop Rocks and Fun Dip. But for some reason, the memories of my school’s book fair still stand out to this day . . . and that's saying A LOT. There is something very memorable about physically engaging in a book—no matter how old you are. Whether it’s wandering through a bookstore or the ritualistic ceremony of sitting down by lamplight, sipping tea, and flipping through the freshly printed pages of a new story under your nose. Yes, there is nothing better than a brand-new book . . . or is there? With younger generations glomming on to every new wave of technology that floods the market, will e-readers and eBooks make print a thing of the past? In a battle of books, eBooks vs. Print, who wins? Well, let’s find out! Let the battle begin . . .
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Thanksgiving is right around the corner—that special season when we get to fill up on turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. What a wonderful time of year, full of change, quiet reflection, and gratitude.
For so many of us the holidays can be a time where we feel a great deal of stress—both financial and emotional. If you are feeling a little less than enthused for the upcoming holiday season, take a moment to consider how grateful you are to have these 5 modern devices. #5. DVR It wasn’t that long ago when there were only a few channels on TV to choose from. Okay, maybe just a few decades . . . but still! Now there are so many channels and shows we had to invent a little box to keep track and record them all for us. And no, it’s not a VCR and yes . . . I remember what a VCR is. If you grew up with a VCR, you truly understand the convenience a DVR offers. Back in the day, if there was a big game and a social gathering happening at the same time, you were forced to record it manually with a videotape (usually a family-home video that you decided wasn’t all that important to you anymore). And you just hoped that nothing went wrong and no one told you the score while you were out and about. But that’s not even the best feature of a DVR! Not only does your DVR track and instantly schedule and record your favorite shows . . . it lets you watch them without commercials. With the DVR you control the TV! You can fast-forward, rewind, pause, and instantly replay that last touchdown as many times as you want! If you own a DVR, I would argue that you are so grateful for it, you will avoid watching TV “the old way” for as long as you live. #4. Wi-Fi Second on our list is Wi-Fi. Why? Because everything else on our list just got that much more awesome because of it. Wi-Fi goes hand-in-hand with the term "hotspot" for a reason. It is the place you want to be! Wi-Fi is so in demand, it is helping companies sell cars and people choose which airline to travel with. Think of it this way . . . the Internet is like a drug. Once we have had a taste of it, we need it. Some of us need it ALL OF THE TIME. We can’t bear to live for more than a few hours without having the ability to check our emails or update our Facebook statuses. And how could we possibly manage to think or retrieve any information without the assistance of Google? Impossible! So, whereas before we had to withstand time without being constantly connected to the Internet while driving in our cars and socializing with friends, now we have this little dealer who provides us our Internet fix (sometimes for free) whenever and wherever we need it. Phew. Thank you Wi-Fi. #3. Tablets Here is why tablets are awesome (yeah, like you didn’t already know). It really doesn’t matter what you do to kill some time, if you have a tablet, you can probably do it wherever you are. Been meaning to catch up on your current events? Have some books you’ve been meaning to read? TV shows to watch? Puzzles to complete? Pictures to paint? Letters to send? People to connect with? Okay, I'll stop. If you have a tablet, you can take a huge chunk of the fun things you do to kill time with you and leave the suitcase at home! But wait . . . there’s more. If you have children, a tablet may have just jumped to the top of this list. What better way to entertain your children on a long road trip than by letting them play games (even educational ones) on your tablet! Woo! Hours pass with ease thanks to this medium-sized modern marvel. Sure, your smartphone may do many of the same things, but a tablet provides more options, more storage, and a little more real-estate for your eyes—which is nice. #2. Smartphones Remember all of that stuff I just said about your tablet? Oh yeah, your smartphone can do that too. Smartphones are a thing many of us love to hate. I personally miss the days when you came home to the delight of a little flashing red light that meant an unlikely stranger had left you a message that was just waiting to be heard. Ah . . . the days when you could escape the constant ties to everyone you knew and screen your calls if you wanted to. The days you could really hang up on someone when you were mad—slamming the phone down just means so much more than touching a little screen. And let’s not forget the little pleasures, like holding the phone by the cord while it spun out of its tangles. But, now that smartphones have become the new norm, it would be weird to live without them, right? It is the epitome of convenience. You can do almost anything with your phone—usually in a more effective way. Smartphones have replaced phonebooks, maps, landlines, and revolutionized food delivery services. You can order pizza and have it delivered to your house with nothing more than an emoji. You can share face-time with family members and friends from across the world. You can check in to your flight without a boarding pass. You can ask your phone a question and it will answer! Not to mention you can easily document your entire life with messages, notes, photos, videos, and more! Smartphones are amazing. They do it all and they fit in your pocket! This one invention is mind-blowing when you consider that most of our parents shared the one line in their house with their neighbors! And an operator was an actual person who connected you using a physical phone line. Yes, selfies are annoying and people are too-often glued to their phones, but hey… all in all, it’s a great thing we all love to have. #1. The Computer Well, it should probably go without saying that the #1 modern device we are grateful to have is the computer—and the Internet. Yes, it’s obvious, but really think about all that computers have given us. Without computer technology, it is likely that none of the other techy stuff we love would exist. Computer technology introduced a whole new way of thinking, along with an entire new market and world culture. The invention of the computer and the Internet has made the world a smaller place, created a bigger and better global market, opened the doors for social platforms, and continues to foster the ingenuity and creativity of entrepreneurs who continue to make even more awesome stuff we love. I would argue that whatever business you run, or business you work for, operates better or relies primarily on everything computer technology has given us. So in a way, you can thank computers for making it possible for you to have a job, an income, and food on your table at night. Pretty cool right? Plus, without computers, you might have gone your entire life without seeing all the funny things that cats do! So this year, as the tryptophan from the turkey sinks in and the glow of the football game warms your skin, I hope you will smile and feel grateful—after all, you are lucky enough to enjoy the modern marvels of today . . . and there is no telling what tomorrow will bring! Do you remember what Christmas was like as a kid? Waiting anxiously for 24 days to pass so Santa could come. Feeling worried thinking he didn’t get the letter you oh-so-carefully drafted, asking for new toys. Anxiously lying in bed . . . too excited to sleep. Then waking to find a room stacked full of beautifully wrapped boxes, all tied up with string.
The true spirit of Christmas lies in the heart and mind of a child—innocence, generosity, joy, and the unequivocal belief in the impossible. Whether you are searching for the perfect gift or an old forgotten feeling, here are 7 classic stories guaranteed to lift your Christmas spirit. A Christmas Carol This classic novel by Charles Dickens has become a holiday tradition for many who read or watch the story on Christmas Eve. Ebenezer Scrooge is a character we can all relate to—especially as adults. But after being haunted by the ghosts of Christmases past, present, and future, it’s impossible not to feel the spirit of Christmas again in your heart. Pick up the book or watch the movie if you have forgotten what Christmas is really all about. The Little Match Girl If you haven’t read this book by Hans Christian Andersen, be forewarned—this is not your typical fairy tale. The Little Match Girl is arguably the best Christmas story to relay the importance of human kindness and charity. If you finish this book without shedding a tear or feeling the urge to give to those less fortunate than you . . . see a doctor—you may be suffering from a heart of stone. A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree A Wish to be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Monroe is another tearjerker that will become an instant Christmas classic in your collection. Despite his desire to become a Christmas tree, the tall old fir is always overlooked and passed-up by families because of his age and size. Although he wanted more than anything to become a Christmas tree, he had the joy of watching his siblings, offspring, and his offspring’s offspring become Christmas trees. He knew his wish would never be realized—until his woodland friends showed him the value he provided them. ‘Tis the season to get creative with your kids or students!
The holidays are the perfect time of year for teachers to provide opportunities for students to express their festive spirit—whether through arts and crafts, choir, performance recitals, or theater. But the joy of crafting is not just for kids . . . adults can do it too! Here are 5 creative holiday crafts to try with your kids or enjoy on your own. Snow Jars For this creative craft you will need jars, plastic or ceramic figurines, distilled water, glitter, glue, and glycerin. Glue the figurines to the inside of the jar lid and let dry. Be careful not to let the glue run to the outside edges. The lid needs to be able to screw on tightly to the jar. Fill the jar with distilled water, glitter, and a drop or two of glycerin. Carefully place the figurine inside the jar and screw the lid down airtight. Turn the globe over and let it snow! You love to wander in the mountains. You frequently feel the urge to seek out places of solitude where no one can find you and the only sounds you hear is the wind through the trees and the breath on your lips.
Going to the same places over and over is not your style. You constantly look for new terrain that offers greater challenges. As a savvy outdoors enthusiast, you know there is a big difference between feeling excited and feeling afraid. Nothing will steal your love for nature faster than the very real threat of death. So before you head out on your next nail-biting adventure, make sure you are prepared to take it to the next level. Plan for Your Trip This is possibly the single, most-essential rule for safety in the backcountry. When people run into trouble recreating in the great outdoors, it is usually because they failed to plan ahead. In order to ensure a safe, comfortable, and fun trip—plan ahead. Ask yourself the following questions to make sure you are ready.
You just got back from a vacation to northern California. What a trip! You loved everything about the bay area . . . the food, the people, and the beautiful architecture. Just like so many others, you left your heart in San Francisco.
While in the city, you had a chance to visit nearly every historical site and tourist attraction. You saw the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli Square, and Coit Tower. After strolling through Dolores Park one sunny afternoon, you noticed a peculiar looking fire hydrant. Ever since returning home, you have been asking yourself the same question. What was the significance of that fancy golden fire hydrant in Dolores Park? The Great Earthquake of 1906 The story of The Golden Fire Hydrant begins in 1906 with one of the worst natural disasters to ever hit the United States—the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. Whether they draw people for the sites or they are the site to see, here are the 10 famous streets to fly to, drive on, or run down on your next vacation.
Streets with Spectacles Some streets are famous for just for being famous. Here are the streets that are home to tourist attractions that skyrocketed their fame. Broadway—cuts down the island of Manhattan passing many neighborhoods and right into the world’s greatest theatre district. This major thoroughfare was nicknamed The Great White Way after a headline in the New York Evening Telegram, referring to the theatre marquees and billboard advertisements that illuminate one the oldest streets in the United States. Although this street runs 13 miles through Manhattan, most tourists come to see the commercial intersection of Times Square and Midtown Manhattan where most Broadway theatres are located in New York. The situation—your mother-in-law just called and she is on her way over to pay you surprise visit. The problem—it looks like a bomb has exploded in your house. What do you do? You’re not worried, you’ve prepared and trained for this moment. It’s time to speed clean!
Easy as 1, 2, 3 Start by throwing away, move to putting away, and finish with cleaning the surfaces. This 1, 2, 3 method of cleaning will help you any time, but especially when it's crunch time. Rather than making a mad dash from room to room, clean one room at a time. Speed cleaning works best when you keep your house relatively neat—try to clean a little every day. If you are hurrying to clean before guests arrive, begin with rooms you know they will see. Otherwise, just start where it bothers you most. Step away from the tie, and back-up slowly. Yes, Father’s Day is just around the corner and you’re in a crunch, but before you go making that coupon book for massages and weed pulling you got away with when you were 10, check out the latest and greatest gifts for dads.
#5. Ceptics Worldwide International Travel Plug Adapter Kit—For the vagabond dad a Ceptics plug adapter is perfect. This plug kit will keep your dad’s devices charged and ready to go whether he is in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, or the UK. Packing is not a problem thanks to its compact size. It is lightweight and inexpensive, as well as straightforward and easy to use. Just know that it is only equipped to handle one thing at a time, so if your dad is a gadget guy, he might need more than just one of these techy travel adapters. #4. CORE GasLess Power Products (Drive Unit Yard Tools)—The latest intelligent technology design for power tools is going gasless. The CORE Power Lok System is a kit of lawn care tools, made up of a blower, lawn trimmer and hedge trimmer. Imagine an electronic controller that recognizes which tool has been attached, and provides the exact amount of power that is needed to run it—and does so instantaneously! Not only is this snap-on, snap-off system of yard tools more convenient to use, it’s eco-friendly. It uses electricity to run, not gas. That’s not all, these tools are light—only weighing about 4-7lbs. You might spend a little more for the tool, but save on the gas to use it for life. Don’t worry about running out of power, these tools are equipped to handle a lot of work for a long time; you’ll probably run out of gas before you run out of power. #3. iGrill Devices—No more guessing how long to grill that steak with iGrill devices. This pocket-sized Bluetooth thermometer links with your iPhone to give you the exact temperature of the meat you are cooking, whether that’s rare, medium or well done. It can read the temperature from 150 feet away, so no more standing over the hot grill, just keep an eye on your phone. To use the iGrill, just mount the small magnetic device to your BBQ, or you can use the adhesive backing for non-metal surfaces. Stick the meat probe in the meat, close the lid and walk away. You will be free to chat with friends, and entertain your guests with pre-set temperature alarms. Alarms are built into the app on your iPhone for best grilling, but you can even set your own for your unique tastes. When it’s time to dig in, your phone will let you know! #2. TaskOne iPhone 5/5S Case—For the man you call to fix it, or the dad who always has the gadget for the job in his back pocket, get the TaskOne G3 iPhone case. iPhone cases for dad were not meant for form, but function! This case will not only protect his phone with aircraft aluminium and polycarbonate, it is loaded with tools! It has a kickstand and universal mount to make sure he never misses the game, and can watch it comfortably while he sips and dips. Included in the case is a removable knife, three screwdrivers, reciprocating saw blade mount, wood saw, 6 attachable Allen wrenches, bottle opener, wire cutters, pliers and box wrenches. It’s the ultimate pocket power tool! #1. MiP, Your New Robot Friend—For the dad who truly does have everything, meet MiP. This tiny, two-wheeled robot is controlled by sensor technology. Make him move with your hand, or your phone. Don’t let his small stature fool you, he can carry a lot. For recess at work, your dad can make MiP dance, drive, or even fight another MiP. Say goodbye to virtual reality, and video games. MiP is gaming for the real world. Goodbye trendy tie, and boring dad’s day gifts! For the man that’s always there, get him the greatest of gifts! Your car is most likely your second largest investment, if not your first. Proper care and maintenance is the key to keeping your ride alive on the long road ahead. Cars have gotten more efficient and technical, which is great for driving, but can make potential problems pricier to fix.
Studies show that younger drivers are often more careless about their cars, usually do to a fundamental lack of knowledge in proper upkeep. It’s important to cover basic car care with your adolescent drivers so they can take preventative measures and be able to identify when something is wrong. But let’s be honest, teenagers aren’t the only offenders. Most of us have treated our cars as good as we treat a toaster at one point or another. Whether it was choosing the cheapest gas, going as long as possible between oil changes, or assuming that the air filter is fine (that’s just a mechanic stunt to add needless expense). If you have nodded to any of the above statements, please continue reading below to discover more sure-fire ways to ruin your ride. |
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December 2015
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