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Monthly Archives: July 2019

  • The best smart light bulbs overall

    The Philips Hue light bulbs are easy to use and set up, and they are the most reliable bulbs we've tested.

    Philips is arguably the most famous smart light bulb manufacturer, and for good reason. In our testing, not only were the Philips Hue light bulbs extremely easy to set up, but they were also easy to use and very consistent.

    Perhaps the best thing about the Philips Hue bulbs is their versatility. You could go for the color-changing bulbs, which are a little more expensive, but there's also the option for the simple white bulbs, which are much cheaper and could offer a better option for those looking to set up their entire home. No matter which set you buy, all Hue bulbs are dimmable and can be controlled remotely with the Hue app.

    The light bulbs themselves output 800 lumens, which is more than enough for most small to medium-sized rooms, and while larger rooms could benefit from multiple bulbs, that's also true of your standard 60W light bulbs that your home may already be using. On top of that, they're relatively small, unlike bulbs from the likes of LIFX, so they'll be able to fit into most places that your average light bulbs fit.

    There are a few downsides to using Philips Hue bulbs, including the fact that you'll have to use the Hue Bridge (Zigbee) hub and that they're more expensive to own than Bluetooth bulbs when you factor in the price of the hub (the white bulbs are the most affordable, costing around $15 each). Also, the Hue Bridge hub will not support other brands' bulbs, even if they use Zigbee, but some Zigbee-certified hubs will support Hue bulbs. Of course, the upside to that is reliability and the ability to remotely control your lights, so it is well worth it.

    You can also control the bulbs with your voice if you have Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or Amazon Alexa. It's extremely convenient when you don't want to go get your phone or your hands are busy. You can also control the lights using the respective apps for the aforementioned platforms.

    We weren't the only ones who liked the Philips Hue smart bulbs — both CNET and Trusted Reviews rated them highly. Experts and buyers alike agree that these bulbs are the best ones you can buy. Having purchased and tested various smart bulbs, Guides Editor Les Shu eventually settled on Philips Hue for his home, citing the easy set-up and operation with both HomeKit and Alexa.

    Note: In 2019, Philips introduced new bulbs that support both Bluetooth and Zigbee, which means you can use them with or without a Hue Bridge hub. A two-pack of new white bulbs costs $29.99 (equivalent to standard Hue white bulbs) and a two-pack of new color bulbs costs $89.99. The white-bulb set is priced in-line with the C by GE Bluetooth set we mention in this list, but since we haven't tested the new Hue bulbs yet, for now, our pick for Bluetooth bulbs remain the C by GE. Based on our experience with Hue bulbs, we think these will perform just as well, but now with the option of using Bluetooth.

    Pros: Reliable, versatile, easy to use, easy to set up, consistent, voice control, dimmable

    Cons: Require Hue Bridge hub, a little pricey

    Solar LED Outdoor Waterproof Ball-shaped Light Party Weeding Yard Bar Decor

    Details

    Main Features:
    ● Power supply: solar power charging, 1 AAA battery ( included )
    ● Plastic material, durable, high-temperature resistance and wearable
    ● It charges automatically during the days and glows automatically in the nights
    ● It can float on the surface of water and other situations
    ● You can use this LED ball light in various occasions: swimming pool, lawn, garden, baby bath, bedroom, study, and other public places, different occasions can play its different charm
    ● This solar powered light requires zero maintenance and easy to install as they do not require wiring cables 
    ● It can be used in areas where there is no electrical supply
    ● Special ball look, can be a good decoration
    ● Light color: whiteStyle: LED 
    LED Color: White 
    Features: RechargeableMaterials: Plastic 
    Power Supply: Solar PoweredBattery Voltage: 1.2V 
    Battery Current: 600mAPackage weight: 0.139 kg 
    Product size (L x W x H): 8.50 x 8.50 x 8.50 cm / 3.35 x 3.35 x 3.35 inches 
    Package size (L x W x H): 9.00 x 9.00 x 9.00 cm / 3.54 x 3.54 x 3.54 inchesPackage Contents: 1 x Solar Floating Light

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  • Benefits of Swimming

    Swimming is not only enjoyable, it's also an excellent exercise. A low-impact exercise, swimming is easy on the body's joints and allows a range of motion in the water that is unattainable on land for some people.

    Why Swimming Is Good Exercise

    The unique thing about swimming is that it can be quite vigorous yet low-impact, providing both cardio and resistance training benefits. Swimming is a versatile, customizable workout.

    Easy, Low Impact Activity

    Anyone can learn how to swim. The basic strokes are very easy to master once you've gotten used to the feel of buoyancy. Since anyone can learn, anyone can then do it. Swimming is an ideal activity for anyone with fitness problems or chronic knee or back injuries because it's so low-impact. In fact, it's often used in therapy for those who have been injured.

    An Accessible Exercise

    People who are obese often turn to swimming to help get into condition and maintain good health, thanks in large part to the low-impact nature of the activity. Likewise, the elderly, who may have frailty concerns, find that they can be confident in a pool and work to regain strength and endurance. The simple fact is that movements in water are easier than on land - they may be slower because of the resistance of the water, but the movements feel less painful or challenging.

    Swimming Burns Calories

    Just because you don't feel yourself sweating when you swim doesn't mean you aren't getting a serious workout. Whether you're doing laps or a program such as aqua aerobics, you burn calories while swimming and can thus lose weight and tone your body. When combined with a reduced caloric intake, swimming can help you lose weight.

    A Relaxing Workout

    Researchers aren't sure why being in water has such a relaxing effect on people, but they do acknowledge that water helps calm people. For people who feel stressed by the prospect of working out, getting into water can help calm some of that stress. Under water is a quiet, peaceful place. It's also a great option for people who are uncomfortable getting sweaty, as the water cools their skin and whisks away any sweat.

    No Special Equipment Needed

    Other than a body of water and a bathing suit, no other equipment is needed. Avid swimmers enjoy the simple process of pulling on a bathing suit and then hopping right into the water to get started on their workout. Many people find they are more likely to get a swimming session in than they are a different workout requiring more preparation.

    Strength Benefits

    The cardiovascular benefits of swimming cannot be overstated. Stamina and endurance are both trained while swimming, especially when swimming vigorously. Swimming also challenges muscles, strengthening them and making them more accustomed to challenging resistance work. While you're unlikely to achieve hypertrophy (muscle growth) from swimming, your muscles will get stronger. Specifically, these muscles are challenged while swimming:

    • Arm and shoulder muscles are recruited while swimming.
    • Core muscles are significantly engaged while swimming.
    • The muscles of the lower body work hard while swimming, including the glutes and the legs.

    Make Swimming a Healthy Habit

    Swimming may not feel like an intense workout while you're doing it, but make no mistake about it - swimming can be challenging and incredibly beneficial to your body. Your fitness level will increase and your body will grow stronger, all without having lifted a single hand weight.

    HD Waterproof Anti-fog Integrated Earplugs Swimming Glasses Swim Cap Nose Clip

    Details

    Main Features:
    ● PC lens material, clear perspective, does not affect the vision
    ● PU comfortable soft swimming cap with low resistance in water
     Detachable mirror strap, practical and convenient, soft and comfortable nose bridge, free to bend
    ● The mirror ring fits tightly to the eye, waterproof eye protection
     Anti-fog coated HD lens with large field of view
    ● Adjustable buckle, elastic and adjustable
    ● One-piece earplugs to avoid loss
    ● Length 163mm, mirror height 48mm, mirror width 59mm, nose bridge distance 27mm
    ● For swimming loversEar-stems Length: 59MMPackage weight: 0.452 kg 
    Package size: 22.00 x 10.00 x 8.00 cm / 8.66 x 3.94 x 3.15 inchesPackage Content: 1 x Pair of Goggles, 1 x Swimming Cap, 1 x Nose Clip, 2 x Earplug

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  • The smartphone camera could become the new way consumers find products online

    This is a preview of a research report from Business Insider Intelligence, Business Insider's premium research service. To learn more about Business Insider Intelligence, click here.

    The smartphone is getting smarter as tech and internet companies inject increasingly sophisticated computer vision and object recognition functions into their hardware and software. The ability to "understand" what the user is pointing their mobile camera at and "read" the image has opened the door for visual search.

    Foreseeing the potential for mobile visual search to create new revenue opportunities, brands are attempting to harness the smartphone camera's increasing sophistication to engage with consumers and drive sales.

    In The Mobile Visual Search Explainer, Business Insider Intelligence analyzes the developing technologies behind mobile visual search and its value to businesses and brands. The report also assesses risks and opportunities inherent in developing a visual search strategy, provides a list of companies that are working in the space, and discusses what they've accomplished so far.

    Here are some of the key takeaways from the report:

    • There is strong evidence that mobile visual search technology will take off in the near future, including growing access to technology, strong usage rates of camera-related apps, and early indication of potential revenue growth.
    • In some instances, visual search is faster and more accurate than text or voice, as it cuts through consumer-introduced ambiguities.
    • The mobile visual search ecosystem is growing, with a slew of enabling platforms, native apps, and internet companies all broadening their expertise in the field.
    • Leading internet search companies, including Google and Baidu, are in a race to capture the mobile visual search market as it begins to eat into traditional forms of search.
    • The smartphone is the perfect launchpad for visual search technology, but new form factors, like smartglasses, hold great potential.

    In full, the report:

    • Provides an argument for the potential uptake of mobile visual search technology by tech companies, brands, and consumers.
    • Outlines the current mobile visual search landscape.
    • Explains how startups and tech companies with mobile visual search products are evolving their business strategies.
    • Provides an outlook for the future of the mobile visual search industry.

    Interested in getting the full report? Here are two ways to access it:

    1. Purchase & download the full report from our research store.
    2. Subscribe to a Premium pass to Business Insider Intelligence and gain immediate access to this report and over 100 other expertly researched reports. As an added bonus, you'll also gain access to all future reports and daily newsletters to ensure you stay ahead of the curve and benefit personally and professionally.

    The choice is yours. But however you decide to acquire this report, you've given yourself a powerful advantage in your understanding of mobile visual search.

  • HUAWEI Multifunctional Waterproof 3 Pro BLUE

    Details

    Main Features
    • Matching system Android 4.4 and above; iOS 9.0 and above
    • Wristband material: silicone
    • Battery capacity is typically 100mAh
    • Support NFC 
    • Bluetooth Band 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 4.2 Protocol, Bluetooth Connection Distance is less than or equal to 10m (in an open environment)
    • 2 PIN charging interface, connected to the charging base through the buckle
    • Theoretical charging time: about 100min 
    • The theoretical standby time is about 15 days (turn off all settable switches, you can view the time and the number of recorded steps)
    • Sensor 6-axis inertial sensor (acceleration sensor, gyro sensor) optical heart rate sensor infrared light wearing detection sensor
    • Button full screen touch + Home button
    • Safety protection 5ATM waterproofBrand: HUAWEI 
    Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 4.2 
    Waterproof: YesBattery Capacity: Typical value 100mAhBand material: Silicone 
    Case material: Aluminium Alloy,Metal 
    Shape of the dial: RectangleCompatible OS: Android,IOSPackage size (L x W x H): 10.00 x 10.00 x 8.00 cm / 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.15 inches 
    Package weight: 0.070 kg 
    Product weight: 0.050 kgPackage Contents: 1 x Smart Watch, 1 x Charging Dock, 1 x Charging Cable, 1 x Chinese and English User Manual

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  • Frequent Question for Bluetooth Speaker

    Bluetooth problem

    If there is any problem happened in Bluetooth, please make sure that you have opened the Bluetooth in you device and the distance between device and Bluetooth speaker is closer than 3 feet without blocked by any barrier. After these, if your problem is still there, please delete the matching record of speaker in your device.

    When you open the speaker, if there is no light in LED and Bluetooth can’t be connected, you need to check if the speaker is out of power. If not, then your speaker may be broken. If the LED light and the voice reminder work well but no Bluetooth connection, you can check if it asks about Pin number “0000” or if other device can get connected. You can also reopen speaker or Bluetooth to retry.

    Loud noisy bothered in Bluetooth connection means that the speaker have problem in Bluetooth module, and the connecting distance is depend on speaker, smartphone brand, and environmental disturbance. However, if the Bluetooth connected normally but there is no sound coming up, there are some special solutions here.

    Battery and charging problem

    In order to extend long-term performance of built-in battery for speakers, please turn off the speaker when charging, especially when it is low battery. If the built-in battery consumed quickly or unable to be charged, either user didn’t use it in a right way or there is problem with the battery itself.

    Radio problem

    There may be problem that radio can’t be used or receive program. The radio function in our Bluetooth speaker is just able to get short wave with earphones as antenna. So, please remember to use earphones.

    AEC Portable Wireless Bluetooth Flashlight Speaker

    Details

    Main Features:
    • Waterproof function and suitable for outdoor activities
    • High-definition sound quality for you to enjoy music
    • Power Supply: built-in 3.7V lithium battery 2200mAh
    • Charging Time: About 2h
    • Using Time: 8hBrand Name: AEC 
    Design: Portable,Small,Stylish 
    Compatible with: Computer,iPhone,iPod,Laptop,Mobile phone 
    Supports: Bluetooth,TF Card Music Playing 
    Connection: Wired,Wireless 
    Interface: AUX,TF Card Slot 
    Audio Source: Bluetooth Enabled DevicesPower Output: 3WPackage weight: 0.314 kg 
    Product size (L x W x H): 4.30 x 4.30 x 13.80 cm / 1.69 x 1.69 x 5.43 inches 
    Package size (L x W x H): 11.50 x 4.60 x 18.50 cm / 4.53 x 1.81 x 7.28 inchesPackage Contents: 1 x Bluetooth Speaker, 1 x Chinese and English Manual, 1 x USB Charging Cable, 1 x Audio Cable

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  • Humidifiers and Health

    What is a humidifier?

    Humidifier therapy adds moisture to the air to prevent dryness that can cause irritation in many parts of the body. Humidifiers can be particularly effective for treating dryness of the skin, nose, throat, and lips. They can also ease some of the symptoms caused by the flu or common cold.

    However, overusing humidifiers can potentially worsen respiratory problems. It’s important to know how to use them correctly.

    What can I use a humidifier for?

    Humidity acts as a natural moisturizing agent that can relieve dryness. For this reason, humidifiers are often used for relieving:

    • dry skin
    • sinus congestion/headache
    • dry throat
    • nose irritation
    • bloody noses
    • irritated vocal cords
    • dry cough
    • cracked lips

    You may be prone to these discomforts when the air in your home is dry. This is especially common during winter months or when an air conditioner is being used during the summer.

    Mini USB Air Atomizing Humidifier with Night Light

    Details

    Main Features:
    - Ultrasonic whisper-quiet operation won't interfere with your sleep
    - Humidify the air in the space, give you a comfortable environment
    - Compact and lightweight size, perfect for use in bedroom, office, car, hotel, tent, or even on flights
    - Applicable to connect with portable power source, laptop computer, and mobile phone charger, etc.
    - Refresh the quality of air we breathe
    - Purify the air around, neutralize static
    - Operating voltage: DC 5V
    - Operating current: 540mA
    - Operating power: 2.7W
    - Tank capacity: 150ML
    - Spray amount: 30ML / H
    - Operating time: 4 hours or so
    - LED lamp current: max 160mA, min 60mA
    - LED power: max 0.6W, min 0.35W
    - Material: ABS, PP, silicone and ASPackage weight: 0.209 kg 
    Product Size(L x W x H): 7.40 x 7.40 x 11.80 cm / 2.91 x 2.91 x 4.65 inches 
    Package Size(L x W x H): 7.70 x 7.50 x 12.50 cm / 3.03 x 2.95 x 4.92 inchesPackage Contents: 1 x Air Humidifier, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x Absorbent Cotton Bar

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  • Loom Knitted Scarf Pattern

    A knitting loom is a great tool for making quick and easy projects like hats, scarves, and blankets. Give this simple, double-layer scarf pattern a try, even if it's your first loom project. You can make it with either a round loom or knitting board loom, and you can adjust it to the width and length you desire. Made in the round, your knitting will create a tube that when pressed flat will give you the luxurious warmth of knitted double layers.

    Materials

    Gather the following materials.

    • Small round knitting loom or knitting board
    • Worsted or bulky weight yarn, 3 to 4 oz. skein
    • Loom hook tool
    • Scissors
    • Yarn needle

    Instructions

    The following step-by-step instructions with images can help you make your scarf.

    1. Prepare your loom. If using a small round loom, you will be using all the pegs. No adjustments are needed. If using a knitting board (as in the photos), you will want to remove unneeded pegs that will get in the way of your knitting. Remove the end peg above the anchor peg. Note: The anchor peg is the horizontal peg on the outside edge of the loom. Leave the pegs to the right of the anchor peg to match your desired scarf width. Remove at least a hand width of the next pegs. Turn the loom around. Mirror the pegs and removed pegs on the other side of the loom

    2. Form a slipknot and attach to the anchor peg

    3. Cast on. Working to the right, wrap the yarn around the first peg. The yarn crosses over itself on the inside of the loom, and there is a single wrap of yarn on the outside of the peg. This is an e-wrap. Continue to wrap all the pegs on the round loom or just the ones needed on the knitting board. After all the pegs have been wrapped, wrap another row of e-wraps above the first ones on each peg. Hold the yarn tail. Note: You can also work to the left, if preferred. Whichever direction you choose, be consistent throughout the pattern.

    4. Starting with the last peg wrapped and using the loom hook tool, lift the bottom loop over the top loop and over the top of the peg. The peg will have one loop when the stitch is complete. You can now let go of the yarn tail. Continue stitching around the loom, lifting the bottom loop up and over the peg.

    5.Repeat the e-wrap around the loom. Hold the yarn and stitch the last peg wrapped. Let go and stitch all the pegs around.

    6.Repeat Step 4 until the knitting is approximately 1" long. Undo the slip knot on the anchor peg and feed to the inside of the loom.

    7.Repeat Step 4 until the scarf is the length you desire.

    8.Finish off. After the last round, cut the yarn tail long for sewing. Thread the tail on a yarn needle. Using the needle lift the loops off of each peg and thread onto the tail. After the scarf has been completely removed from the loom, lay the scarf flat. Sew the end closed. Finish off and weave in the end. Sew the beginning end closed, finish off and weave in the end.

    Style It Your Way

    Size isn't the only element you can tweak with this scarf. Use this pattern as a base for customizing a variety of scarf styles.

    • Knit a striped scarf. Determine the height of your stripes and knit the needed rows for that height. Change colors by simple tying yarn ends together on the inside of the loom. Knit the height of the next stripe as needed. You can weave in the ends on the inside of the scarf if desired, but it is not necessary as the ends will be hidden on the inside of the tube.
    • Make a scrappy scarf using a variety of leftover yarn from previous projects.
    • Add fringe. Cut two 12" yarn lengths for each fringe. Hold the yarn together and fold it in half. Insert a crochet hook through a stitch on the end of the scarf. Grab the fold of the yarn and pull through to create a loop. Pick up the fringe ends and thread through the loop. Pull the ends to lock the fringe in place. Repeat with additional fringe across both ends of the scarf.
    • If you choose to modify the pattern for a single layer scarf, work one direction and then the next for each row. Do not overlap the ends of each row.

    The Joy of Loom Knitting

    Scarves do not take a lot of time to knit using needles, but they become even quicker projects when knitted up on looms, which are great for people who are not comfortable using needles. Loom knitting is also easier than standard knitting and is a great way to get a child interested in yarn crafts. Loom knitting projects are as close to instant gratification as knitting gets, and they are great gifts to bestow on your family and friends.

    Cylinder Shape Knitting Woolen Yarn Bag Kit

    Details

    Description:
    This Cylinder Shape Knitting Woolen Yarn Bag Kit includes 1pc cylinder shape woolen yarn bag, 1pc crochet bag and 1pc knitting accessories storage bag.
    The bags are made of canvas film with water resistant and anti-fouling function, more wear-resistant and durable. Zipper design is convenient for daily use. If you are looking for a practical knitting accessories storage bag, this set of bags is a good choice!

    Features:
    Set design:
    Convenient for storing woolen yarn, crochet and other knitting accessories.
    Water resistant design:
    Adopts durable material, stable and practical for daily use.
    Portable design:
    With strap design, you can carry the bag easily.

    Parameter:
    Woolen yarn bag size: 28 x 28 x 32cm
    Crochet bag: 18 x 14.5 x 3cm

    Notes:
    - The woolen yarn, crochet and other objects are not included.
    - The size may have slight error due to manual measurement.Package weight: 0.663 kg 
    Package Size(L x W x H): 41.00 x 33.00 x 5.00 cm / 16.14 x 12.99 x 1.97 inchesPackage Contents: 1 x Cylinder Shape Woolen Yarn Bag, 1 x Crochet Bag, 1 x Knitting Accessories Storage Bag

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  • What are the Disadvantages of Mobile Phones?

    Although they appear to be absolutely indispensable communication tools these days, you may be wondering what are the disadvantages of mobile phones? Believe it or not, mobile phones have their negatives as well

    What Are the Disadvantages of Mobile Phones?

    While it may not be completely fair to clump the entire cell phone industry into one tight package (smartphones are distinctly different from basic flip phones, for instance), there are certain commonalities among most cell phones. That's why when you ask what are the disadvantages of mobile phones, you will come across a similar set of possible responses.

    Never-Ending Interruptions

    Many of us may have had the experience of being in an important business meeting, only to have someone's cell phone start ringing with an incoming call, email, or social media notification. It can be terribly annoying and frustrating when such a thing happens. The same can be said about ringing cell phones at movie theaters, family gatherings, and yes, even weddings.

    Because mobile phones provide a constant avenue for communication, they can interrupt at the most inconvenient of times, under the most inconvenient of circumstances. It turns out that this doesn't even stop with the brief notification itself as this can leave a lingering detrimental effect on productivity too.

    A study found that subjects performed poorly on a focused task when they were interrupted with a text notification or incoming call during the experiment; it broke concentration even if they didn't pick up the call.

    Distracted Drivers

    Because of this constant form of communication, people also feel compelled to keep communicating while behind the steering wheel. There are certainly many issues surround driving safety and cell phones and that's partly why the California cell phone law was introduced.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about nine people are killed every day in the United States in accidents involving a distracted driver. This is in addition to over 1,000 injuries daily.

    In the Canadian province of British Columbia, more people are killed due to distracted driving than impaired driving . Even though most people agree that using a handheld phone while behind the steering wheel is dangerous, nearly four in 10 drivers say they use their phone in at least 10 percent of trips.

    Negative Impact on Personal Contact

    The stereotype depicts a teenager at the dinner table, completely disinterested in family time, instead of being completely occupied with social media and mobile messenger apps. This also happens to be a problem at school. Cell phones may dehumanize the dynamics of human contact. Some people may not know how to interact in real life anymore, preferring the safety and comfort of a well-timed text.

    Drawing back to the point of never-ending interruptions, cell phones can also detract from personal contact at business meetings, casual outings, and other get-togethers. Even when people meet face-to-face, they tend to bury their faces in their phones. According to MIT sociologist Sherry Turkle, 89 percent of Americans took out their phone during their last social interaction and 82 percent say that had a detrimental effect on the conversation.

    Cell phones take away from the intimacy and connectedness of romantic relationships too with 75 percent of women  stating that these devices are "ruining their relationships" and "interfering with their love lives." Nearly half of participants in a Baylor University studyindicated that their partners used or were distracted by their phones while in their company and about a quarter said this "caused conflict in their relationships." As a result, people can feel jealous of their partner's phone.

    Health Effects

    Although the dangers of cell phone towers have not been officially confirmed or refuted, there is certainly some evidence that points toward tumors caused by cell phones. When you consider what are the disadvantages of mobile phones, perhaps the greatest negative impact could be the effects mobile phones may have on a person's health.

    Among the negative health effects associated with proximity to cell phone towers are DNA damage, sleeplessness, eye cancer, infertility, cardiac problems, and chronic fatigue.

    In the case of college students, 90 percent sleep with their phones on or next to them, 70 percent say they don't get enough sleep, and 50 percent say they feel tired during the day. Cell phones can suppress melatonin, alert the brain (rather than allow it to rest), and harm both the quantity and quality of sleep.

    Bottomless Money Pit

    Cell phones have become just as much a form of function as they've become a form of fashion. Many enthusiasts and regular people alike feel compelled to "upgrade" their mobile phones on a very frequent basis, as often as once a year or more. Whenever there is a new iPhone, people line up around the block to spend upward of $1,000 on the device.

    These enthusiasts will want a different phone next month as well as all the accessories and peripherals that may go along with it. Cell phones can be a very expensive hobby, especially if they are upgraded more often than every two or three years. One writer for Time said he saved $20,000 to $30,000 for skipping out on the iPhone for 10 years.

    Cell phone bills continue to grow too. About three-fifths of Americans spend more than $100 per month and 21 percent spend more on their phone bill than on groceries.

    Mobile Phones Aren't All Bad

    With the average American spending an average of two to four hours every day on their phone, it is important to consider the disadvantages of mobile phones. At the same time, it would be unfair to paint the cell phone industry under such a negative air. These devices provide a great level of convenience and safety to those who use them, and they can substantially improve the productivity of workers too. However you feel about mobile phones, one thing is clear. They're here to stay and they'll continue to play a very prominent role in everyday life.

  • Toy Dolls

    Toy dolls are practically a staple in every little girl's, and many boy's, toy boxes. Dolls are a classic toy that, even when updated, will always be appealing to children of all ages.

    Classic Dolls

    A baby doll is perhaps one of the most classic dolls. The baby doll is a fun, nurturing toy for children of all ages. Many parents also use baby dolls to introduce a child to the concept of a new sibling. Two good choices include:

    Classic dolls don't have to be babies. Older kids will enjoy playing with these two classic dolls:

    • Raggedy Ann and Andy: These classic dolls are a great choice for parents to give their children or as a gift from grandparents to grandchildren.
    • Cabbage Patch Kids: While they are no longer the hottest toy on the market, Cabbage Patch Kids continue to be popular dolls for both boys and girls. Look for one that reflects your child's looks or who shares the same name.

    Dress Up Dolls

    Dress up dolls let children enjoy mixing and matching various outfits to create a new look for their special friend.

    • Melissa & Doug Magnetic Dress Up Dolls: Melissa & Doug makes a line of wooden dress up dolls that are based on traditional paper dolls. Girls can dress up their favorite characters by attaching magnetic wooden outfits. The dolls are packaged in a wooden storage tray that keeps everything neatly organized when the child is done playing.
    • Favorite Storybook Characters Paper Dolls: These classic paper dolls are a wonderful way to encourage a young child to develop a love of reading. The set features iconic children's book characters such as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz and Wendy Darling from Peter Pan.
    • One Step Ahead Dress Up Doll: This doll teaches toddlers important self dressing skills by providing several buttons, zippers, and fasteners on the doll's outfit. Both boy and girl dolls are available.

    interactive Dolls

    Interactive dolls add an element of excitement to playtime. Children can feed and change the dolls or even help the dolls learn to "walk." Consider these two lines of interactive dolls:

    • Baby Alive by Hasbro: Baby Alive also has a number of different versions that interact with your child. Most of them eat and need diaper changes, along with saying a number of different phrases. There is even a version that has teething pains!
    • Little Mommy by Mattel: The Little Mommy line has several different dolls to choose amongst, each with their own special actions. The Hide & Peek doll plays the game of the same name and says cute phrases. The Walk & Giggle doll goes from sitting to walking. Play All Day dolls respond to movement with different phrases.

    Fashion Dolls

    Fashion dolls are the staple of many older girl's play things. While some parents may not like the message these dolls send, they continue to be popular with girls. Three well-known lines include:

    • Barbie: This beloved beauty continues to reach for the stars, as she takes on numerous careers, movie/storybook characters and other roles.
    • Bratz: The Bratz dolls have exaggerated features and are a trendy alternative to the traditional Barbie dolls.
    • Monster High: These dolls are modeled as being relatives of famous monsters in fiction, such as vampires, werewolves and more. They are perfect for a girl who wants a doll that's not "too" girly.

    More Popular Dolls

    There are almost as many lines and types of dolls as there are girls in the world. Try one of these lines of dolls for your daughter, niece or friend:

    • Disney Princess: These dolls are modeled after the famous princesses in the Disney movies, like Ariel and Belle.
    • Madame Alexander: The collectible company also offers lines of play and baby dolls for girls who are fans of the more precious versions.
    • American Girl Dolls: Most of these dolls are based on historical characters whose stories are depicted in books. However, the line has expanded to cover babies, twins and the My American Girl line, which are dolls that are partially created by the buyer.

    Dolls Are Forever Friends

    A toy doll is a special gift for any little girl or boy. They will not only be treasured toys, but treasured friends, in a child's life.

  • Cake Decorating Supplies

    In order to create a beautiful cake, you need more cake decorating supplies than just a spatula and your icing. From basic pastry bags and tips to elusive discontinued cake pans, having a well-stocked decorating supply is key to making cakes with ease.

    Basic Supplies

    Decorators will need to keep several basic decorating supplies on hand in order to make decorating a breeze. Some basics include:

    • Frosting ingredients
    • Food colorings (gels, liquids, pastes, powders)
    • Clear flavorings
    • Large spatulas
    • Small spatulas
    • Parchment paper
    • Pastry bags
    • Couplers and tips
    • Round cake pans
    • Square cake pans

    A favorite decorating instruction or idea book, like one of Wilton's cake decorating books, is usually a staple in both novice and expert decorator kitchens. Aprons and plenty of washrags and paper towels are also helpful supplies to have on hand.

    Specialty Supplies

    As your skills increase, you will likely need to begin expanding your supply collection. Find many of these items in more intermediate to advanced decorator kitchens:

    • Cake decorating caddy to hold multiple tips
    • Airbrush guns and food coloring accessories
    • Fondant and gumpaste tools
    • Specialty tips, like multiple opening tips
    • Shaped cake pans, like Disney character cake pans
    • Tilting cake turntable
    • Cake stands and separator sets for making multi-tiered cakes
    • Rose nail and tips

    Collect Cake Decorating Supplies

    Every decorator will have different supply needs. Novices who want to attempt a shaped pan may need to purchase a specialty tip, while some experts may be able to create extravagant cakes using only their basic supplies. Start with a few basics and build your supply based upon your needs at the time. Supplies for cake decorating are available through online retailers, local kitchen/baking shops or craft stores. Local libraries may have supplies, pans or instructions, too.

     

     

     

     

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