Attitude of Gratitude

Is it possible that electronics can actually change your life? If so, then I want to spread the good news about three items that have definitely transformed my life for the better over the last couple of years.

The first is my silly little video iPod. I drag that thing everywhere. To work, on trips, and basically everywhere I go. It is especially useful given the biking lifestyle in the Netherlands. That, and my traveling all the time. I can listen to music, books, or watch movies on the go – anytime, anywhere.

But everyone knows that. I’m preaching to the choir on that one.

The second is my Tekkeon MyTalker (seen above). I purchased this because I found that while biking or walking around A’dam and listening to my iPod I was often missing important (or not important) calls. Also, when lost (which happens a surprising amount in A’dam, even after 2.5 years!), it can sometimes be a drag digging around for my phone and dialing numbers while trying to continue riding my bike in a straight line. I was so happy when I found this little gadget that enables you to use the phone while listening to your iPod.

Works like this – you turn on the Bluetooth in your phone and connect it to the MyTalker. You then connect your iPod headphones though the MyTalker, and hook the MyTalker onto your shirt (microphone). When the phone rings and you hear it through your iPod headphones and answer through the MyTalker, speaking into the microphone. No picking up phone, no looking around, no stopping bike. You just hit the button on the MyTalker and you are on the air. It is fantastic! It is perfect for the ESTJ in you who wants to accomplish things in the most straightforward and logical way possible.

Sounds geeky, I know. Wait until you hear about the third.

This one is honestly my most thrilling life changing electronic device. I have to tell you, I still haven’t lost the excitement about this one and cannot wait to use them again. In fact, every time I have them and a friend is near, I make them try them out too because I am totally sold on these things. They are… drum roll… the Bose QuietComfort 2 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones . Hands down, the coolest item I’ve bought in a long, LONG time. I like them way more than the Bose surround sound stereo I just bought (sorry Jag), and they cost a hell of a lot less money too. Who knew that headphones could make such a huge difference?

All I can say is this: You put them on and suddenly all is right in the world. Cats play with dogs. Oil mixes with water. All is just right. Truly amazing.

When you turn them on, suddenly you hear no sounds. When you turn on music, you hear things in the music that did not exist before. It is like Beethoven in your ears.

I haven’t been able to sleep on planes in years. Suddenly, sleep comes easily. When you do have to take them off on the airplane (like when that flight attendant wants to know what you want to eat – how dare she interrupt my headphone time?), it is like you are standing IN the engine. People do not realize how loud it is on those planes. And now, silence.

I think I’m in love with my headphones. I might even cry.

If you travel a lot, buy these headphones. Period. You will not be disappointed.