Gadgets...these are really cool

My mom sent this newspaper article a few weeks ago about a new service called Google Voice. The service gives you free phone calls within the continental U.S., but here's the really cool part: it assigns you a new phone number that forwards calls to your cell phone and land line; and it transcribes your voice messages into e-mail. So basically, when you get a phone call, all your phones will ring – land line, cell phone, etc. If you don’t pick up, and it goes to voice mail, the messages are transcribed for free. They instantly show up in your Gmail e-mail box, as well on a voice.google.com page. Visit this website about the service for more information including a long list of all the other cool features. With Mike and I both working long hours and having 6 different phone numbers between the two of us (home, cells, and office numbers), I know this would make our lives a lot easier.

Sonic Bug Repellers! In my mind, the coolest thing EVER. And they work. We bought a multi pack at Costco and have plugged them into outlets in the garage, back patio, and near entrances on the first floor.We have seen only 2 bugs since - both PARALYZED (and/or twitching but unable to move - awesome) all thanks to our super cool new purchase. The only word of caution, do not use if your pet of choice is a hamster, gerbil, guinea pig, or similar rodent. How it works? Plug the device into an outlet and it immediately begins working through the electrical wiring in your home. Apparently it debilitates the pests through their nervous system, (awesome again) then you or a loved one can effortlessly destroy them.