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Cool tools really work.
A cool tool can be any book, gadget, software, video, map, hardware, material, or website that is tried and true. All reviews on this site are written by readers who have actually used the tool and others like it. Items can be either old or new as long as they are wonderful. We post things we like and ignore the rest. Suggestions for tools much better than what is recommended here are always wanted.
Nite Ize Portable Device Stand. Very handy for propping up the iPad (or phone) on my lap or on a flat surface. Great for allowing hands-free use of my iPad while following recipes either in my photos, Notes, or online.
iKlip Xpand by IK Multimedia…universal mic stand support for iPads and tablets. Designed for musicians for use on a microphone stand. In addition to using it as-intended, I also use it for FaceTime calls, and whenever I need hands-free iPad operation…i.e. when following a DIY video or when cooking.
I have a Wagner’s 1891 Original Cast Iron Cookware, 13 3/8 inch skillet…it is an indispensable piece of cookware that I ‘inherited’ from a friend of my mother’s who was downsizing. I wouldn’t have sought out such a large/heavy pan as a must-have kitchen item. It’s non-toxic non-stickiness along with the ability to go from stovetop into the oven are amazing properties. The Wagner pans aren’t made any longer, but any large cast iron skillet (Lodge or Staub) would suffice. Make sure you get one with a handle on both sides, as it’s heavy.
DIGITAL
WeTransfer…file transfer service. Free level…Share and receive up to 3 GB / month, 10 transfers per month, transfer expiry up to 3 days. I use this to share large .wav files with my band mates that are too large to email. There are also paid levels which include more GB and transfers per month. The ‘Free’ level (email required for sign up) is truly ‘free’ and works perfectly.
Canva…graphic design tool…I have used this to design album cover art and business cards for my band. Very intuitive user interface. It can be used online, but I prefer their app for iPad. While there are options to ‘upgrade’, the free version (email required for sign up) fulfills my needs.
INVISIBLE
Mantra for mindful practise, relaxation, general well-being…taken from a broth-making cookbook, (by Louise Hay, I think)…
“See the breath. There is only the breath. And so it is.”
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