Technology today allows anyone to contact you at any time, and for you to reach right back.  But sometimes, that’s not a smart idea.  And it turns out that not only can your cell phone distract you from proper driving, it can be the highest danger to you while you drive. A recent test by Car and Driver magazine tested the reaction times of drivers to a light on the dash that notified them when to stop.  They tested undistracted drivers, drivers who were legally drunk, drivers reading an email, and drivers sending a text.  It turns those last two are the worst.  That’s right, trying to read an email or send a text caused reaction times worse than drunk drivers.  So please, for the safety of you and your family, just put the phone down until you get where you’re going.

Posted: June 30th, 2009 under Crazy Stuff, Show Notes.
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Technology can be pretty confusing sometimes.  It’s hard to keep track of how everything works on your computer, the internet, your cell phone, and even your T.V.  But sometimes, technology is still built to solve a problem and make someone’s life better.  For example, I just read an article today about some technology being developed by Toyota.  It will allow someone confined to a wheelchair to move that wheelchair with their mind. So far it allows someone to move a wheelchair forward or sideways by thinking it.  The only thing that still needs work is stopping, which requires the user to puff out their cheek.  Still, it’s great to see something that could make a real difference in the quality of someone’s life.

Posted: June 29th, 2009 under Crazy Stuff, Show Notes.
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As recovery from last years floods continue, the Salvation Army in Cedar Rapids is working to make a difference again this summer.  Right now they’re working to increase access for their food pantry as well as the meals they serve.  If you’d like to help the Salvation Army in Cedar Rapids, they’re working to make it easier for you.  They’ll be placing smaller versions of their red kettles in businesses around town, so if you see a red kettle you can make a contribution there.  If you’d like more information, you can stop by the Salvation Army (directions here) or give them call at 319-364-9131.

Posted: June 29th, 2009 under Helping Others, Show Notes.
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Kim is inspired by the faith and energy of her friend Brigitte.

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Posted: June 26th, 2009 under Uncategorized.
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Computers are a definite part of our lives.  We use them at home all the time.  You might have to put together a paper (or your kids do for school), assemble a schedule for the week, or maybe you work from home on your computer.  And all that takes software that costs money.  One way you could save money is through some free software.  Microsoft is offering just that  with Office 2010.  They’re looking for people who are willing to do some intensive testing of the new Office before it hits store shelves.  If you’re willing to be one of their testers and try out of the new version of Office on a “loaner laptop”, when the test is all done, you’ll get a free copy of the new Office.  If you want to look into joining the program, check it out here.

Posted: June 26th, 2009 under Crazy Stuff, Saving Money, Show Notes.
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