Mommy Must Haves: Gadgets!

I don't consider myself a "techie" per say, but there are a few gadgets that I couldn't live without. Busy mommy or not, these 4 items are guaranteed to make your life a little less stressful!

1. Google G1 Cell Phone (or other Apple iPhone comparable)

I got the G1 instead of the iPhone so I could stick with T-Mobile and spare myself the contract cancellation fee. However, almost every cell phone carrier has an iPhone knockoff nowadays. The point is, modern technology has turned the latest cell phones into handheld computers, giving you up to the minute traffic updates, weather forecasts and news. Not to mention, custom applications that let you bid on eBay auctions, calculate a tip or scan a barcode to find the best deal! I use mine at least once an hour to take down a note or calculate bills. I even listen to music on it when I'm getting ready. You can also connect to WiFi on most smart phones and surf the internet super fast! Don't forget the car charger!


2. TiVo

I couldn't even tell you what day and time my favorite shows are on anymore since I had Nikki. All I know is that when I get a peaceful chunk of time to veg out in front of the tv, they'll all be waiting there for me on my trusty ol' TiVo! I bought mine on eBay for $95 4 years ago and it's one of the best investments I ever made. Being able to FF thru commercials is like a dream and pausing live tv when the baby starts to cry is a gift only God can give.

3. MacBook laptop

Apple computers rule and PCs drool. (In my opinion anyways.) I've had 3 Microsoft-possessed laptops in the past and they've all died horrible deaths. I would say that my MacBook has never given me a lick of trouble, but I'd be lying. Truth be told, it crapped out on me last October and took all of Nikki's newborn pictures and videos and my MP3 collection with it. But, here I am today telling you all to buy one. That's because I believe in the power of Apple and in it's promise to never do me dirty like that bastard Bill Gates did oh so many times. Just make sure you suck it up and shell out the $300 for the AppleCare plan so they'll fix you up free of charge for the first 3 years. AND always remember to backup all your meaningful files!

4. Fujifilm FinePix Z Digital Camera

This is the make and model I'm currently using, but any quality digital camera will do. I don't know anyone under 35 who doesn't have their own digital camera, so I don't need to do much convincing on this one. I keep mine in my purse at all times because you never know when you'll need to capture a moment. I like the FinePix Z because it has a slide feature to expose the lens instead of a zoom. If Nikki grabs it, I can just slide it shut real quick and if he drops it, the lens won't break because it's internal and flush with the camera body. It's a 10 Megapixel and takes pretty good quality videos. (It's what I shoot my YouTube vids with!)