My Right Brain

Somebody That I Used to Know

I LOVE this cover(the original isn't too bad either :)

THE SEARCH: iPad For Babies {updated}

Yup, I am still letting HML play with our iPad and miraculously we haven't encountered any mishaps (knock on wood).  Since this post we have taken some major strides in the baby app world (for better and worse) so let me save you the guesswork by sharing some tips and currents favorites. 

• Make the investment count: In general I don't spend much of apps, and since HML changes by the minute I typically won't spend more than $2-$3 per item.  If there is a lite version, I will always download it as a test drive and of course read the reviews for stability.  There is nothing more annoying than purchasing an app that doesn't work properly, NOTHING.
  
  
• Research:  Word of mouth is a great way to discover new apps, but in addition I will often check the app store Top 25 list, Gizmodo, Parenting, Babble, Apps4Kids and Techrader.
  
  
• Digital Books: HML loves to read so it was only natural that we started exploring digital books.  Toy Story and The Monster at the End of This Book are her current favorites (I highly recommend both) however I recently downloaded Another Monster at the End of This Book (since she LOVES the original) and unfortunately it crashes half way through (booooooo).
  
  
• Animals: Peekaboo WIld and Peekaboo Barn are perfect introductions to animals and their sounds while also teaching cause and effect - LOVE THESE!
  
  
• Music: Music Sparkles is an exciting way to introduce a variety different instruments (all under one roof) with a unique audio and visual experience.
  
  
• You Tube: Prior to HML, I never used this app, but now it's our greatest resource.  Other than the fact that it's free (YAY) the favorites feature organizes all of HML's Sesame Street songs perfectly.  There is not a day that goes by that we don't all sing at least one of these songs; Sing After Me, Elmo's Ducks, Feist sings 1, 2, 3, 4,  The Alphabet with Elmo & India, I Love My Hair, Hurray-Hurrah For Braccoli, and Elmo's Song.  WARNING: these songs will get stuck in your head for days at a time.

What are your favorites?  I know I must be missing a ton!

American Idol

Need to waste some time on this ever so productive Monday morning?  Click on a face to enjoy their original audition (you can thank me in an hour :)...Still want more, enjoy these battles: Carrie vs. Allison, Jason Castro vs. Lee Dewyze, and Elliott Yamin vs. Chris Richardson.

Ps. The X Factor has replaced my guilty American Idol pleasure - and there is no looking back :)

Thursday Links

Today's links are all in honor of my favorite, Uncle AZ :)
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AZ sent this to me the other day.  He claimed it proved that woman really are insane - ironically (or maybe not since I am a woman) I thought it actually showed how smart we are.

I was reminded of this post recently, and still sad about AZ's reaction (clearly he was having a lapse in judgement) cause is anything more entertaining?

AZ sent me this because he is still on the hunt for apartment art (it's only been two years, but whose counting) and I had to share cause it's awesome.  I can't decide which I like best (out of the music posters or movie posters), but here are my top three: one, two, three!

AZ could not dance like this as a seven year old, but honestly who could - this seven year old is beyond super talented.  His moves are so mature and deliberate, I am starting to think that he is at least eight or nine :).

I have linked here before, but thanks to AZ I rediscovered this gem. 

For a good time, click here - this has nothing to do with AZ :)

Happy almost Friday!

2 Cellos

If you thought playing the cello was uncool, think again.