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Our Back to School series wouldn’t be complete without discussing clothes, now would it? Parents of teen and college aged children don’t have to worry about selecting a new wardrobe because, chances are, your son or daughter doesn’t want to be seen with you in a public place. Besides, kids older than 12 probably know exactly what they want to wear and don’t really want your input. Young children are a different story. Elementary school aged kids and tweens may be aware of fashion trends, depending on how old they are. At the same time, they’re still little enough to where they need your help finding the perfect outfit for the day of school. Moms, think of clothes shopping as an opportunity to spend quality time with your kids because pretty soon, they’ll be asking for your wallet while pushing you out of their way!

This year’s fall fashions for girls are not all that different from last year’s, which means your daughter will be able to keep wearing most of the stuff in her closet as long as it fits. Denim is the hottest thing around, including skinny jeans in bright colors, accented with studs, or torn. Boot cut jeans are available, but they aren’t nearly as popular as skinnies. Another big trend right now for girls bottoms are leggings and jeggings. These are super comfy and perfect for making the transition from summer to colder fall temperatures. Dresses and skirts aren’t as cool this time around, but denim miniskirts are the exception to this style rule. Shirt dresses remain a staple, though, especially when they’re layered over a pair of leggings.

For tops, studded tanks in long lengths are all the rage since they compliment leggings well. Little girls are going to want graphic tees featuring Hello Kitty and colorful peace signs. Plaid tees with short and long sleeves are going strong, although ruffled accents give them a more feminine flair this fall. Cardigan sweaters are the lightweight cover up of choice, but the ever popular hoodie is here the last. Peacoats and denim jackets may not be warm enough for those who live in cooler temperatures, but you will find them flying off the shelves in any girl’s clothing department at the moment. Your daughter might be young enough to trust you when you explain that warmth is more important than appearance; otherwise, you’re never going to leave the store without a jean jacket.

Boys are much easier when it comes to back to school clothes because they generally don’t care about this kind of stuff. For boys the key is comfort, so boy’s fashion doesn’t change beyond a few wardrobe staples. It’s all about skinny and straight leg fits in terms of jeans; black and dark gray washes are cooler than lighter varieties at the moment. Cargo pants and shorts fill in the gaps when denim gets too hot. The good news is that your son can keep wearing his plaid shorts as long as they fit properly because those haven’t gone out of style yet. Graphic tees featuring bold colors and fierce designs, like skulls, will make him feel tough enough to tackle anything head on. Long sleeve plaid shirts make the shift from summer to fall pretty easy on you since he can layer them over his favorite tee. You’ll find solid and striped polos everywhere, which are perfect under cozy hoodies. Plaid and all over print hoodies will be his chosen uniform. Hats are always in for boys, but baseball caps have taken a back seat to beanies, grommets, and even fedoras. These will keep his head warm while adding some serious style points to his overall look.

Back to school sales are in full force, so now’s the time to hit the stores. Happy shopping!

Last week we talked about preparing your son or daughter or college. Spending for college can easily get out of control, which is why it’s very helpful for students to find part time employment and receive financial aid. Unfortunately, these types of programs are out of reach for parents of school aged children, especially of the elementary age. Young kids can’t work to offset some of the bills, and there aren’t a lot of public assistant programs that cover the cost of buying necessary supplies. Getting young children ready for a new school year is particularly pricey because they tend to need all new stuff. They grow out of clothes very quickly and lose or damage their backpacks and lunchboxes frequently.

Parents on a budget already know to take advantage of back to school sales at major retailers like Wal-Mart and J.C. Penny. This year, many states are trying to boost sluggish sales by offering incentives in the form of “Tax Free Holidays.” By timing your shopping correctly, you can avoid paying sales taxes on certain days, which is a welcome break for cash strapped parents. On August 6^th-8^th Alabamians can spend without having to pay taxes. In Connecticut, those days fall on August 15^th – August 21^st. Floridians will have their special days from August 13^th – 15^th, although some restrictions apply. Illinoisans can save on August 6^th- 15^th, but only on certain, school related items. In Iowa, the days fall on August 6^th and 7^th, and include educational tools along with diapers. The same is true for Louisiana, which has the least restrictions on the applicable products of any state. From August 8^th- 14^th, people in Maryland can buy clothes and shoes tax free. On August 14^th and 15^th, people in Massachusetts won’t have to pay sales taxes on anything that costs less than $2,500. Mississippians already had their heydays on July 30^th and 31^st. Missouri’s sales take place on August 6^th-8^th, and include clothes, shoes, and computers as well as certain software programs. New Mexico’s sales take place on the same days as Missouri’s and their policies are fairly similar. North Carolinians will enjoy the same deals on that August weekend, plus discounts on sporting goods. Oklahomans will have fun that weekend, too, but their list of tax free purchases are limited to clothes and shoes. South Carolinians will be busy that weekend, although they have more opportunities to supplies and accessories. Ditto for people in Tennessee, who can buy clothes, shoes, art supplies, and computers on the 6^th-8^th.  Virginians will be spending that weekend, but their choices are limited to clothes, shoes, and supplies that cost less than $20. Texans have to wait until August 20^th-22^nd, and must provide proof of that the exempt items are going to a student (college doesn’t count).

If you don’t live in any of these states, you’ll have to settle for regular retail price cuts. That may not sound as enticing, but it’s better than paying full price. Besides, you’ll need any help you can get if you’re going to pay for jeggings, skinny jeans, a winter coat, and boots.

Kids and college students may not want to admit, but the fall semester is just around the corner. Preparing for any year of school requires a lot of shopping, although nothing compares to outfitting a dorm room for the very first time. Whether the room is furnish, unfurnished, or shared space makes a big difference in terms of supplies. It at all possible, take a campus tour that includes a stop in the dormitories so that you can get an idea of what you will really need. Otherwise, call the campus housing department and ask them to describe the accommodations and make recommendations.

Outfitting an unfurnished dorm room isn’t necessarily going to put you in the poor house because these room tend to be small in size; there’s just not enough space to cram in a ton of new furniture and appliances. This counts double for shared housing. In fact, you can probably get away with buying a simple desk, twin bed or futon, and maybe a nightstand. Optional items include a TV stand, bookcase, filing cabinet, bean bag chair, and dresser. This may not sound like enough, but keep in mind that most students don’t spend the majority of their time hanging out in their dorm rooms. For the most part, students use their dorms for sleeping, studying, and relaxing. Otherwise, they’re busy with activities, friends, work, or doing research in the library. Plus, they’ll still have their bedrooms at home, provided you reserve that space for their vacations and visits. Appliances are an entirely different story. Dorm rooms are usually filled with cool electronics, including TVs, microwaves, coffeemakers, toaster ovens, desktops, laptops, paper shredders, stereos, mini fridges, funky lamps, and gaming consoles.

That probably sounds expensive to parents on a budget, but don’t feel overwhelmed. Your son or daughter doesn’t need to turn a dorm room into a palace. Beyond a couple of basic items, the rest is unnecessary. Bedding is usually at the top of the list because dorms tend to be pretty drab. Colorful bedding adds a personal touch to a bland environment and helps your first time freshman feel comfortable. Picking a color scheme can make decorating easier by giving you a theme to work around, although it might be a good idea to avoid loud stuff in a roommate situation. Other important things to pick up are an alarm clock, extra blankets, a bathrobe, towels, a clothes hamper, throw rug, pillows, handheld vacuum cleaner, closet organizer, dishes/cookware, and toiletries, depending on your child’s needs.

Overall, shopping for dorm gear should be a fun experience for parents and young adults. Lots of stores have handy checklists on their websites, such as JCPenny, Wal-Mart, Target, and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. These guides can be useful, although remember that these companies often try to market gratuitous products during the back to school season. Since it can be difficult to sort through all the ads and figure out what your kids actually need, we’ll be doing a series of back to school articles from now until September. Next week we will discuss getting young kids ready for elementary school, so parents of 1^st to 6^th graders should definitely check back in soon. Until then, happy summer everyone!

If you’re like most parents these days, you’re probably wondering why your kids would rather spend their vacation time sitting in the house playing video games instead of going outside. With childhood obesity on the rise, along with the juvenile diabetes epidemic, your concerns are more than valid. In order to stay healthy, kids need plenty of exercise; the problem is actually getting them up off the couch. Luckily there are a lot of hot toys on the market this summer that offer super alternatives to inactivity.

Swimming is something that most kids love to do and they won’t even notice that they’re getting a workout in the process. Plus, swimming will keep them cool enough to where they won’t be longing for their air conditioned house. Don’t have a pool in your backyard? There are probably public ones in your neighborhood, maybe in a park or YMCA facility. You may also want to consider buying an above ground pool, which costs way less than building a standard pool and won’t use up so much space in your yard. Either way, the kids will probably need a little motivation to get them to dive in, so you might want to pick up some cool water toys. A floating basketball hoop creates friendly competition and your kids probably already know the rules of the game. An underwater torpedo allows them to play catch below the surface, which puts a unique spin on a classic summer sport. Floating rafts and tubes are always a hit on a hot day and no pool is complete without a couple of inflatable lazy boys. Rafts don’t have to be boring by any means; try a giant shark or duck to make things extra enticing. Putting up a volleyball net is another option as long as you own a pool of your own.

When even getting wet gets old, there’s no need to throw in the towel. Buying a trampoline or inflatable bounce house will definitely bring hours of entertainment and rigorous physical activity along with the smiles. Bounce houses are really popular crowd pleasers at children’s birthday parties, so you know they’ll be an instant hit in the backyard. This kind of item may be out of some parent’s price range, but there are tons of less elaborate ways to encourage your kids. Set up a kid-sized tent and go on a backyard camping trip.  Kick it off with a “hike” around the neighborhood or in a nearby park. Jump ropes are very inexpensive, yet they provide an excellent cardiovascular workout. Velcro hand toss games are usually under $10 and don’t require a tons of space to enjoy. Depending on how old your kids are, they may be able to ride a bike, skateboard, or scooter on their own or with adult supervision.  Those traditional options might get a few groans; why not liven things up with a Ripstik Caster board from Razor. Their innovative design creates momentum without pushing off of the ground like a regular skateboard. Inspired by surfing and snowboarding, these boards provide outstanding maneuverability and open up a whole new world of crazy tricks to master. Who knows, you might be inspired to try it out for yourself. Why should kids have all the fun?

If you don’t already own a Smartphone, why are you sitting around and surfing the web? GO GET ONE NOW!!!!! If you already own one of these bad boys, chances are, it’s time for an upgrade. Unless you just bought a new phone, the one you’re using at the moment is probably already totally outdated, even if you bought it only a few years ago. The rapid pace of technology is making everything faster, smaller, and amazingly efficient, which is good news for consumers. When they first came out, Smartphones were too expensive to fit into most people’s budgets. Today they still aren’t what we’d call cheap, but they are way more affordable now than ever before. Since prices are really dropping lately, we thought we’d give you short guides to what we believe are the best products on the market right now.

Droid X- Since the time of its debut, these puppies have been solid sellers. They’re made by Motorola, which has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of technology. The phone works with Verizon, one of the largest service providers worldwide that is well known for its reliability. The Droid X is the latest incarnation of the series, and it’s flying off the shelves, to the point where its usage is actually causing some trouble! The Droid X is lightening fast and capable of running 8 apps simultaneously. It’s definitely an awesome addition to what was already a superior line up. Buyers have been in a mad dash to grab these, so it might be a little hard to find one at the moment. Still, don’t let the search stop you because these are totally worth the effort. And it costs a lot less than similar Smartphones.

iPhone 4- By now you’ve probably heard the buzz about what some people are calling antennagate, but don’t let the negative spin cloud your judgment. The iPhone 4 has only been out for about a month, and it’s already sold 3 million units. That figure says it all. The iPhone boasts a devoted following, and this model is no exception. It’s packed with mind numbing speed, a sleek design, and it’s loaded with the coolest camera ever to make its way into a phone. Apple works exclusively with AT&T as a service provider, but they’re a reputable company to say the least. Currently, the iPhone 4 is available in classic black exclusively, but the long awaited white version is on its way. You may want to hold out for the white one, but don’t overdo it because you’ll have a brief period to get a free case from Apple should you experience any connectivity issues.

BlackBerry Bold- The BlackBerry has a business vibe to it and has always been the preferred gadget of the jet set. The Bold has the longest battery life out there and is an excellent multi-tasker, making it ideal for the professional on the move. It, too, works with AT&T, so you know you’ll never be stranded in a dead zone. It has plenty of bells of whistles that attract tech freaks, although it’s a tad more sophisticated in its approach. The Bold is made to be a portable office, not a substitute iPod for a teenager. Sure, it’s fun to play around with music and quirky apps, as long as you have the time for that sort of thing. For the serious entrepreneur, the BlackBerry Bold is the way to go.

Honorable mentions go to the Samsung Wave, Sony Xperia X10, and the Google Nexus One. Choosing between any of these Smartphones can be pretty tough; it all depends on your specific needs. We wouldn’t feel right about telling you to pick one instead of another because different users have corresponding needs. You should try to do as much research as possible before you decide which Smartphone to buy, that way you’re sure to get something that works for you.

It’s that time of year again! Summer is in full swing, and you know what that means—- vacations! Before you hit the dusty trail, you should definitely check out this list of must have items. Some of them are tried and true fare while others are new additions to your collection. Keep in mind that this list is designed for adults and teens, not young children. That said, be sure to grab all this awesome stuff a.s.a.p.!

Digital Camera: This sounds like a no brainer, but since almost everyone has a cell phone camera, I figured I’d emphasize the need to carry a separate device. Sure, you can get along without one, but let’s face it; cell phone cameras aren’t of the highest quality. You will want to remember your trip forever, and the only way to preserve those precious memories is by investing in a good digital camera. You’ll thank yourself in the long run.

Digital Translator- If you’re going to travel abroad, a pocket sized digital translator will end up being your new best friend. Dump that old, beat up book, and join the 21^st century by getting one of these today. Digital translators are the fastest and easiest ways to help you understand and communicate in foreign languages. Most of them are equipped to handle as many as 12 different languages, so you will be safe no matter where you find yourself. This is particularly useful if you are going to more than one place, such as backpacking across continental Europe. And don’t worry about having an indecipherable accent; unlike a book, these pronounce words for you so that you don’t end up confusing anyone when you ask where the nearest bathroom is!

Netbook- Unless you’re going on a business trip or plan on working while you’re on vacation, there’s no need to lug your bulky laptop around with you; save yourself some serious space and weight by picking up a netbook. These sleek, ultra portable machines are ideal for travel and perfect for the light computing you’ll find yourself doing throughout your trip. Think about it: you’re not going to be creating any Excel spreadsheets on the way to the Grand Canyon, so why would you want to bring this program along with you? Netbooks perform the tasks you’ll actually do, like e-mailing, surfing the web, playing movies, listening to music, chatting, and photo sharing. Plus, you won’t have to worry about damaging losing your super important files should you happen to misplace your PC during your journey.

Universal Power Adaptor: These can be a real life and space saver. Buying a universal power adaptor means you don’t have to worry about shoving numerous power cords into your carry-on luggage. These will work with just about anything (excluding certain Apple products).

iPad- This is Apple’s answer to the Netbook. These super compact devices can do almost everything that a Netbook does, such as surf the web with WiFi, play music and movies, and share pictures. They have a touch screen similar to that of an iPhone, which has been a big hit with consumers for obvious reasons. iPad are pricier than most Netbooks, though, and don’t come in an array of colors yet. That doesn’t really matter, though, because Apple loyalists will want to get this eye catching device no matter what!

E-Book Reader- Sure, you can download books onto your laptop, netbook, or iPad. But that uses up a lot of valuable space on these devices already limited memory. Purchasing an E-Book allows you to bring your home library with you and doesn’t take up nearly as much space as you might think. These wireless devices mimic the look and feel of real paper, which is something that no other product can say. They will make you forget you’re not actually holding the text in your hands! They are also designed not to overheat, so you can read comfortably and quietly for hours at a time.

PSP; Nintendo DS- Video games aren’t just for kids anymore. Play Station Portables and Nintendo DS prove that gaming appeals to everyone, regardless of age. There are lots of titles to choose from, and some of the more grown up options include crosswords, word searches, trivia, and Sudoku. Nintendo’s DS comes in fun colors, too. With these handheld systems, you’ll barely even notice a long lay over at the airport. Besides, isn’t it time you stopped borrowing your kid’s toys and bought one for yourself?

Noise Cancelation Headphones- Once upon a time, these bad boys would cost you literally hundreds of dollars. Thankfully, these are far more affordable now that most manufacturers offer a pair or two. These are the only way to truly enjoy the rest of your portable electronic equipment in a crowded hotel lobby or in mid-air. When you don’t want to listen to music, you can always leave them on to tune out the commotion going on around you or to keep strangers from striking up a conversation when you just want to relax!

Wheeled Luggage-Ok, so these aren’t all that hig tech. Nevertheless, they have to be included in this list because they are so darn useful. If you haven’t gotten rid of your luggage since the Beatles topped the Billboard charts, then it’s high time you upgraded to wheeled models. These save your back, shoulders, and arms undo wear and tear. Those reluctant to sport a bag on wheels for style reasons will be happy to see that there are fashionable choices in a variety of colors and patterns.

Happy trails, everyone!

You ever go through the Sky Mall magazine while on a plane and think, “Wow! I have to have that.” Then you get off the plane and never think about the item again?  There are so many amazing gadgets and cool accessories found at Sky Mall, and you can purchase them all online.

Here are some cool items I came across today:

1) Tweakers Portable Speakers

Listen to your favorite songs this summer no matter where you are.  Hear your playlist by the beach, pool side, or at your backyard BBQ.  These speakers are small and easy to transport.  Find them online for $29.85.

2) Bose QuietComfort Headphones

If you plan on traveling a lot this summer, investing in a quality pair of headphones would be a good idea.  These headphones are priced between $299 and $349.  These headphones are cushioned for comfort, and designed to block out all outside noise.  They can last up to 25 hours on a rechargeable battery.  They do require one AAA battery which is included upon purchase.

3) iPod to iPod Transfer Device

You’ve paid for your music, so why shouldn’t your family be able to share it?  Use the portable iPod to iPod transfer device to share music with your friends and family.  Find it online for $99.95.

4) USB Turntable w/Cover

Mix your own beats, and DJ your own party with this easy to transport turntable.  Convert your vinyl collection to CD or MP3.  In order to function, you will require Windows 98 or greater.

5) Digital Camera Swim Mask

Now I am aware, that most of us do not find ourselves scuba diving often; however, if you do enjoy underwater activities this is the item for you.  Made by Hammacher Schlemmer, he Digital Camera Swim Mask is the only swim mask in the world to have an integrated waterproof digital camera.   The camera works to a depth of 15 feet.  The mask plugs into your USB port, to make uploading pictures easy.  This mask can be found online for $99.95.

6) Olympus Floating Camera Case

Going on vacation, but afraid that bringing your camera might end badly?  Don’t miss out on photo opportunities because you are afraid of damaging your camera.  The Olympus floating Camera Case keeps your camera dry and above water.  At only $19.99, it is affordable and worth the investment.

7) Green Slim Projectors

Casio’s Green Slim Projectors bring your presentation to the next level.  Whether you are preparing a presentation for your clients, or putting together a slideshow for friends and family, the Green Slim Projector will enhance the experience for all.  It is light, easy to transport, and environmentally friendly.  This projector sells for around $799.99.

8 ) The Digital notepad and Pen

Does your job require you to take a lot of notes?  Do you prefer to write your notes rather than type them?  When I was in school, the best way for me to remember what I had learned was to take handwritten notes.  The Digital Notepad and Pen allows you to write your notes out, while the pad records and saves everything you write.  It easily connects to your USB and allows you to upload your notes with ease. Find it online for $149.99.

Summer is quickly approaching, don’t let it pass you by.  Make this summer a memorable one by spending it with friends and family.  These items will help you bring your loved ones together, and make this a summer you will never forget.

Here are some great items that will help make this summer enjoyable for you and your family:

1) The Frontgate Pool Float

Frontgage has designed what they call, “The World’s Finest Pool Floats.”  They provide full body support and unsinkable buoyancy.  They claim that these mats are the most durable you can find on the market.  These mats resist puncture, and the effects of chlorine, salt water, and the sun.  It weighs less than 10 Ibs, so it easily transported, and proven to support at least 350 Ibs.  The floating device comes in three colors: light blue, dark blue and gold.  Find it online for $79.95.

2) Solar Pool-Heating Rings

Just throw these rings into your pool and save on your summer utility bills.  They work more effectively than solar panels and only cost $39.95.  It keeps your pool warm at night by harvesting the heat sustained during the day.  For best results, they ask that you cover 50-80% of your pool.

3) The Starship Underwater Light Show

Entertain guests at your next pool party with this cool toy.  The Underwater Light Show is a device that floats in your pool, displaying eight colors in a variety of patterns across your pool.  It is powered by AA batteries.  The device will automatically shut off after two to three hours, so you don’t have to worry about shutting it off.  This device costs $29.99.

4) Underwater Light Show Fountain

If you would like to out-do your last party, invest in the Underwater Light Show Fountain.  Your pool will be filled with beautiful colors, patterns, and a fountain show.  The device comes with a remote to help you produce your show.  This items costs $49.99 online.

5) Underwater Pogo Stick

Have a little fun in your pool with this fun device.  Bounce around the bottom of your pool and get a little work out in.  This device costs $59.95.

6) Floating Pool Chair

When you have work or studying to catch up, get the floating pool chair.  You can cool off and lay back in your pool, as you get your reading done.  Laying on a flat bed above the water can get hot, especially in warm summer months, but the floating pool chair allows you to be partially submerged in water.  Stay cool this summer with one of these chairs for only $24.99.

7) Floating Blackjack Game

If you can’t make it out to Vegas this summer, invest in the floating blackjack game.  You can have a Vegas style pool party in your own backyard.  This floating game doesn’t come cheap at $59.95, but it will provide your guests with a lot of entertainment.

8 ) Floating Table-Tennis Set

Keep guests entertained all summer long with this floating ping pong table.  The table costs $79.99 which is a fraction of what a regular ping pong table costs.

9) Pool N Beach Cabana Lounge

Get romantic with your significant other by laying out on one of these luxurious Pool n Beach Cabana Lounges.  The flotation device costs $299.99 online.  This bed is perfect for relaxing, whether you have someone by your side or not.

10) Inflatable coolers

If you can’t get your kids or friends out of the pool during the summer, investing in an inflatable cooler is a good idea.  Keep them hydrated without bothering to drag them out of the pool.  Just be careful with smaller children, who have a tendency to spill.

We hope that these items will help you enjoy the sunny summer months this year.

Some Items are just so unique, you have to think to yourself, “How did they come up with that?”  Here are some new products that might spark your interest.

1) Grow Your Own Beer Garden

This item allows you to grow your own wheat, barley, and hops, all the ingredients you need to brew your own beer.  This item costs $24.99 online.

2) The Li’l Guppie

This item contains a variety of tools that makes repairs simple.  The Guppie is small and easily transportable.  The Li’l Guppie comes with an adjustable wrench, a carabiner, a high-carbon stainless steel blade with razor sharp edge, flat blade screwdriver, built in bottle opener, and a detachable stainless steel pocket clip that can be used as a money clip.  This items costs $21.99 online.

3) Digital Photo Mug

Can’t get enough of your favorite people?  When you can’t stand to be away from your loved ones, or simply want to look back fondly on happy memories, the Digital Photo Mug can help.  This item holds up to 45 pictures. Find it online for $24.99.

4) Deluxe Mini Fridge/Warmer

This mini fridge can also keep your food warm.  The temperature can get as hot as 140 degrees.  Keep your lunch warm until you are ready to eat it.  This fridge only weighs 15 pounds, so it is easy to transport.  It is also quiet, so it won’t interrupt your coworkers at work.  Find this mini fridge online for $99.

5) The One Can Fridge

This tiny fridge hooks up to your USB port, allowing you to chill your can at your desk.  How lazy can you be right?  Well maybe you want to avoid an annoying coworker, or maybe you are simply too busy to get up from your desk.  This fridge can keep you hydrated while you toil away at work.  The one can fridge costs $19.99.

6) The Self Stirring Mug

Have you ever tried to stir your coffee, tea or hot chocolate with one of those whack plastic swizzles.  They’re so weak you can’t get anything done.  With the Self Stirring Mug, you can make sure your ingredients get mixed in well, without ever having to dirty a spoon or deal with a plastic straw.  The Self Stirring Mug works with AAA batteries and costs $18.99 online.

7) The Universal Gadget Wrist Charger

Charge all of your electronics with this bracelet.  Manly enough for any man, this bracelet can keep your cell phones, gaming systems, mp3 players and more, charged through any roadtrip.

Here are some cool new items that might make your life more convenient and enjoyable:

1. The KS810

This Keyboard allows you to scan your items without having to leave your seat.  The KS810 keyboard comes with a full-color, 600 dpi scanner for all your scanning needs.  If you do not scan much, then try Lifeworks other keyboard which comes with an iPod dock.  Listen to music while you work and make the experience more enjoyable.

2. The Gocycle

When you want to go for a ride, but don’t want to put in the effort, take your Gocycle out with you.  This bike can coast for 20 miles on electric power, it also folds easily making it easy to transport.

3. The Water-Powered Battery

If you like to stay ahead of trends, invest in the Samsung Water-Powered Battery.  This battery uses water alone to recharge.

4. Touch Wood

The Japanese are limiting the use of plastic by incorporating wood into technology.  Pretty soon you can buy a touch screen phone made out of wood.  The look is cool and different, great for those who are cutting edge.

5. OnLive

Some believe that this new product will make game consoles obsolete.  With OnLive, you can play the hottest video games from your PC, Mac or TV over a broadband connection, no console or disks required.