Things that made my life better
I am going to resist the temptation to start writing a bunch of lists as blog entries, but I will share a few cool things that made my life better, easier or just more fun:
- Google SMS, which allows you to text message Google from your phone and get an instant reply. Great for getting directions, price comparisons or settling bets.
- Short drinks at Starbucks. I try to frequent independent coffeeshops whenever possible, but given the choice between Starbucks or burned diner coffee, Starbucks wins - despite their gigantic coffee sizes and the outrageously stupid names they gave them. Which is why discovering that you can order a normal sized drink by calling it “short” was a beautiful thing. It’s not on their menu, but ask and you will be served, in most places at least. Here is why Starbucks doesn’t advertise its short drinks and why bigger is not always better.
- Skype, with which I make free internet phone calls to other computers and very cheap ones to telephones and was able to give up a landline without incurring the wrath of my family and friends abroad. Did you know the company is based in Estonia, of all places?!