Scatty.com

5 Reasons Pickleball Is America’s Fastest Growing Sport

Posted on by scatty

You’ve probably heard your neighbor or coworker talk about pickleball. You may have heard the distinctive “clop-clop” of the hard plastic ball in a neighborhood park. The sport is hard to ignore. There are now about five million players in the U.S., and the number has been growing at close to 15 percent a year.

The sport bears some resemblance to tennis. It’s played on a smaller court with a shorter net, using what look like oversize ping-pong paddles and a whiffleball. Recreational play is usually doubles, two players on each side. Here are five reasons for its astounding popularity.

1. It’s Easy To Get Started

Some sports require lessons, coaching and extensive practice before you can play well enough to enjoy them. Not so with pickleball. You can learn the basics in an hour and play against other beginners on your first day.

Also, its inexpensive. All you need is a paddle and shoes. Paddles are often provided for beginner lessons, and a good beginner/intermediate paddle can be had for $100 or less. Sure, you can spend money on instruction, pickleball camps and tournament fees, but none of that’s vital to enjoying the game.

2. Men and Women Compete on Nearly Equal Footing

Size, strength and speed offer some advantage, but not nearly what they do in many other sports. Tactics, technique and skillful placement of the ball are just as important. Genders are segregated in high-level tournament play, but in any recreational court it’s common to see a game where the “girls” beat up on the “boys.”

3. Open Play Makes It Simple To Participate

There are pickleball tournaments and leagues, but most courts reserve times for open play. You don’t need to call anybody or sign up; just show up with your paddle. Most open play courts have a system for rotating players, and you get to play with a variety of partners and opponents. USA Pickleball maintains a nationwide list of places to play. There are also apps for arranging games.

4. It’s (Relatively) Easy on the Body

Many pickleball players have come over from tennis because it doesn’t put as much strain on shoulders and elbows. It also doesn’t require as much running as tennis, especially if you play pickleball doubles. As with any physical activity, there is of course some risk of injury, and a couple hours of vigorous play can wear you out.

If you’re participating in open play, you can sit out for a rest break then jump back in. Most players find the sport provides enough exercise to help maintain a fitness level but not enough to bring on exhaustion.

5. It’s Amazingly Fun 

There might be drugs that are less addictive. Many people try it once and are hooked. The game doesn’t have the speed of tennis, and long rallies are common. There are few things more satisfying than hitting a great shot, having it come back at you then smacking it again for the putaway.

It’s a social activity, too. Pickleball players love to gather, chat and get to know one another on the sidelines almost as much as they love to play.

5 Traits You Can Probably Thank Your Parents for But Had No Idea

Posted on by scatty

Think all you got from your folks is your button nose, height, or eye color? You may actually have your parents to thank for everything from your trust tendencies to your skills behind the wheel. The fact is, you can inherit a lot from your parents—some a total surprise. The combination of genetics and socialization your parents deliver heavily influences far more than physical traits. Check out five traits you can probably thank your parents for in your life. 

1. Your terror of the dentist’s chair

Does a visit to the dentist cause you more anxiety than you care to admit? If so, there is a chance that dear old dad did this to you sometime in early childhood through emotional transmission. Research published in 2011 found that dental fear among members of the same family is common, but fathers seem to have more of an influence than mothers.  

2. Being a never-ending procrastinator

The tendency to procrastinate is very real and possibly genetic, even though a lot of people chalk up this personality trait to just being hesitant to get started on things that have to get done. Scientists haven’t been able to make definitive statements that you definitely inherit procrastination from your parents, but they have linked the behavior to a certain gene. And, there may be a nurture component to consider as well. Identical twins seem to also be procrastinators if their parents were. 

3. Your trust in other people

Research covered by Science Daily in 2017 discussed the theory that certain genes influence how trusting people are towards others. Even though both distrust and trust can stem from the environment you’re exposed to and your experiences, trust seems to have some relation to genetics. Oddly enough, while trust and distrust are usually considered opposites, distrust doesn’t seem like a heritable predisposition. By contrast, trust was estimated to be about 30 percent related to genetics. 

4. You’re more inclined to take risks than others

How open are you to taking risks or seeking a thrilling adventure? Would people say you partake in risky behaviors? Both of these things may have some relation to certain genetic variances. Apparently, there are more than 100 genetic variants that appear to be associated with risky behaviors or risk tolerance. Nevertheless, researchers have also noted that non-genetic factors have more of n influence than genetics, but the fact that genes are involved at all is still an interesting concept. 

5. Being a bad driver

Ever been called a bad driver? Would you say one or both of your parents were bad drivers? If you answered yes to both questions, you may be surprised that certain genes could be to blame. According to studies, people who have a specific variant of a certain gene drive about 30 percent worse than others. People who have this gene variant tend to forget driving skills quickly and make a lot of errors when they’re behind the wheel.  

The Symbolism Of Birds

Posted on by scatty

Birdwatching in itself is a beautiful hobby. Their grace and beauty in flight is endlessly fascinating to watch, and their songs are a pleasure to hear. From the most primitive cultures to the modern world, birds have come to be symbolic representations of particular attributes and even harbingers of the future. Here are some of the most commonly held symbolic beliefs about different types of birds.

Five Birds and Their Hidden Symbolism

Owls 

Throughout different cultures and countries, people have come to respect owls for their hunting skills and majestic appearance. The Greeks associated the owl with Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom and Warfare, and over time the bird gained much reverence as a symbol of great wisdom and protection. However, in Britain, the owl’s hunting prowess meant people viewed the bird as a sign of death and destruction. Many Native American legends echoed such negative connotations. 

Doves

Doves have shown up as symbols of optimism connected explicitly with peace, purity, love, and safety in various societies and at multiple times in history. There are many instances that reinforce such connections: the dove returning to Noah with an olive branch in its beak, the bird’s association with Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and the shared beliefs of both Native Americans and Chinese who came to see doves as a symbol of longevity, partnership, and purity

Black Swan

While most swans are white, black swans do exist. Although the term ‘black swan event’ has come to describe any rare occurrence with a strong and lasting effect, there are other, more profound meanings as well. While white swans often represent grace and beauty, black swans tend to have more negative symbolism. European legends of the 1700s claim that black swans were sent to Earth by the devil himself. Aboriginals believe that black swans received their black feathers from crows after eagles plucked the swans’ white feathers as punishment for stealing the knowledge of boomerang-making from women. Others see black swans as signs of preparation, rarity, and persistence. 

Cranes

Asian societies tend to revere cranes. In ancient Japan, people thought cranes could live for a thousand years, turning the birds into symbols of longevity, prosperity, and good luck. Many Asian cultures once believed that by folding 1000 origami cranes, a person would receive good luck or get their deepest desire. Chinese myths mention cranes as messengers of the gods, and while ancient Greeks may not have seen the birds as divine, they were representations of vigilance. 

Crows

Crows have a rather negative reputation for thieving and other annoyances. Many people tended to see them as a bit sinister, and multiple cultures view them as an omen of bad things to come and even symbols of death. Still, other societies, like the Vikings, recognized the crow’s natural intelligence and problem-solving skills and saw them as a symbol of creativity. Aboriginals also see crows as clever but with a rather naughty streak. Aboriginals have many stories of crows tricking other animals and even causing trouble by attacking the souls of the dead. 

It is fascinating to consider that people from very different places and times often share the same symbolism for a particular bird. Is it just a coincidence, or is there a real connection that is undeniable? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Gadgets To Help Improve Your Health

Posted on by scatty

Some of us need all the health-improving gadgets we can get, primarily when delivered pizza, and streaming shows tend to sound more fun than the gym. It’s just too easy to let bad habits win sometimes, which can accelerate aging and illness.

Some cool gadgets help improve overall health, from dental health to taking your vitamins. Once you start getting on track, it gets easier and easier to stay on track. Here are five that can make a difference.

Plankpad Pro

For those unfamiliar with planking, it is a simple way to strengthen your core by using your body weight.

The Plankpad Pro is an inexpensive balance board that only takes a few minutes a day to strengthen your core and back. It has an app with games you can play while planking to get even more benefits across more muscle groups. Using their 30-day planking challenge, you slowly ramp up to longer and longer periods each day.

For those living in a smaller space, a size of 20” x 14” means very little space is taken.

Find it online; usually on sale for $65.

Sonicare Toothbrush

Mouth health is also whole body health. Plaque buildup in your teeth can cause unnecessary inflammation, resulting in premature aging and systemic disease because it chronically activates the immune system. Gum disease is another severe symptom that can result in impacts on both dental and whole body health.

Dentists almost universally recommend the Phillips Sonicare toothbrush because it is the most effective at removing plaque with its 31,000 brush strokes per minute.

Depending on the unit, online prices can range from $25 to $269.

Oblio Phone Sanitizer and Wireless Charger

Your phone is carrying around all kinds of funky little creatures that like to make you sick. Phones are also rarely cleaned, so it’s 24/7 bacteria party time. The Lexon Oblio is a wireless phone charger that UV sanitizes your phone while it charges. Drop in your phone to charge at night or while at your desk, and the bacteria dance party is over.

This is especially beneficial during cold and flu season when your smartphone can be carrying some nasty stuff.

The Oblio is $29.99 online and well worth it.

Vitastiq 2 Vitamin Tracker

It used to be the only way to check for vitamin deficiency was a blood draw from your doctor. The Vitastiq 2 ends that need as this tiny, pen-like gadget detects vitamin levels through your skin. Painlessly detecting electrical resistance inside some of the body’s acupuncture points detects vitamin levels and trends. If you’re deficient in any vitamins, it’ll let you know.

Online it is $150

Muse 2 Headband

The Muse 2 tracks your brain activity and is an immersive meditation device worn during guided meditations to provide feedback on your mental well-being. During soothing mediations, your brain activity is recorded on a smartphone app to result in better relaxation and mental health, with many users reporting better focus and emotional regulation.

You can find Muse 2 online for $200.

These are just a few of the neat gadgets out there that can improve or protect your health beyond what your standard smartwatch already provides. Check them out. You might be more peaceful, be taking your vitamins, and brushing your teeth better before you know it.

The 5 Best American Craft Beers

Posted on by scatty

It’s hard to believe that in 2009 there were only 1,600 craft breweries in the good ole US of A. When we fast forward just 12 years later to 2021 we’re now seeing over 9,000 operating craft breweries across the country. 

Craft beer is not only giving consumers a whole new tasting experience, but the culture of the craft brewery scene is highly sought-after. Craft breweries are places where couples, friends, and families can mingle, relax, and enjoy chill vibes, usually with good music and solid food as well.

To identify the 5 best American craft beers, we’ve leaned on BeerAdvocate. These guys have been the benchmark setter for beer reviews since 1996 and they are one of the oldest beer communities, so they know their stuff.  

As of today, the top 5 best American craft beers in terms of the average rating are as follows:

1. Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout

The Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout from Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Iowa is currently ranked #1 with over 717 ratings and a whopping 4.83/5 average. 

This beer is sporting notes of “chocolate chip pancakes drenched with maple syrup served with espresso and a shot of bourbon, all in one sip.” When you have a dessert in a bottle coming in at 12% ABV, it’s no wonder this American Imperial Stout is popular.  

Americans love their pancakes and Goliath just made them in beer form.

2. Marshmallow Handjee

The Marshmallow Handjee from 3 Floyds Brewing Company in Indiana comes in at #2 with over 1,439 ratings and a 4.73/5 average. 

With one reviewer explaining their rating as “just because it can’t be perfect, I guess, but it’s damn close,” this Russian Imperial Stout has been aged in bourbon barrels with extra vanilla beans. This beer comes in at a whopping 15% ABV. When most beers across the board are around 4.5% ABV — woo!  

3. Abraxas – Barrel-Aged

The Abraxas – Barrel-Aged from Perennial Artisan Ales in Missouri takes the third spot with over 1,474 ratings and a 4.73/5 average. 

This Imperial Stout comes in with an 11% ABV and has been aged in Rittenhouse rye barrels for twelve months. Twelve months for a beer! It’s got notes of cacao nibs, vanilla beans, ancho chiles, and cinnamon sticks too! 

4. Vanilla Bean Assassin

The Vanilla Beach Assassin is another one from Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Iowa making headlines. Two beers in the top five from the same brewery is quite impressive — go Iowa! Beer #4 has over 90 ratings with a 4.79/5 score. 

 

This is another Imperial Stout on the list, but this one is aged in whiskey barrels with extra vanilla beans. Coming in at 12.8% ABV, reviews for this beer compliment its thick mouthfeel and full-flavored body.   

5. Heady Topper

Rounding out the top five is Heady Topper from The Alchemist in Vermont. This beer has over 12,403 ratings with a 4.71/5 rating and is an American Double IPA coming in at 8% ABV. 

The Heady Topper reviews state that it’s “so drinkable, it’s scary.” With people highlighting that “sometimes I wish I could crawl right into the can.” That sounds like quite the endorsement!

You can’t say we Americans don’t like our flavor bombs! 

In this industry, new trends and flavors are happening all the time, so keep an eye out for the next popular thing!

Master the Great Outdoors: 5 Essential Skills for Orienteering Like a Pro

Posted on by scatty

Before you begin orienteering, you must be able to read a compass and map.  

That’s a given.

But that’s only the beginning of a successful orienteering adventure. Becoming good at it requires you to dig deeper, discover what you’re made of and learn these 5 skills every pro orienteer must conquer.

1. Self-sufficiency

Orienteering can be a team or solo sport. Whichever you choose, all involved need to have a sense of self-sufficiency.

Many people who come into the sport already naturally have this skill. Others join the sport because they want to develop this skill. Personal growth is incredible.

Either way, there’s nothing like being lost in the middle of the woods as the sun’s setting to teach you some self-reliance. The better you apply this skill, the less likely that is to happen.

2. Knowing When You’ve Passed the Checkpoint

In orienteering, a catching feature is a landmark that tells you you’ve gone too far in one direction. But it won’t always be obvious to most people.

In a natural setting, your map will display a variety of clues like elevation changes, treelines, streams, trails, fields, roads, dirt piles, corn fields, or a fence. To home in on the destination, identify what’s on each side of your target point.

If you hit a catching feature, you know you need to turn around. But don’t see this as a setback. Each feature you can identify from your map gets you closer.

And they can tell you when you’re completely leaving the course.

3. Following Natural Guideposts

A stream, fence, or trail may not take you to your destination. But it can get you in the general area and help you establish where you are.

Be on the lookout for these types of features. As you enhance your skills, more subtle guideposts light your way.

4. Aiming Off to Hit the Mark

You’re trying to reach a small point on the map. These points are often in massive fields or expanses intentionally, so you can’t see them from a distance.

You have to know when you’re close and narrow down the search. Often, the best strategy is to find catching features on the map in person. These can help you triangulate to the mark.

Alternatively, you could comb a small area for hours and not find the target. Of course, someone could get lucky. But as a general rule, it’s always faster to take time and get your bearings in this sport.

5. Always Observing Your Surroundings

It goes without saying that you have to use all your senses to find your way. You can listen for a stream. Smell a wildflower field or diesel from a nearby highway.

Since elevation is often on the map, you may feel that change. If you’re not looking closely, you could miss an overgrown trail or deer path on the map. Yes, deer create distinct paths. But not everyone can see them.

Orienteering Skills

With these skills, you can conquer your next orienteering adventure. You learn these things by doing. And what’s more, you can apply these skills in life to become more self-reliant. So get out there and discover who you are by orienteering.

Top 5 Celebrity Romances

Posted on by scatty

Celebrities seem to have it all. But, is fame and fortune enough? For many, lasting love seems to elude them? Some, however, have managed to keep that love light burning. Let’s look at five such couples.

Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson

Although his first marriage to college sweetheart Samantha Lewes failed, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson appear to have struck relationship gold. Cupid’s arrow found its target while they worked together on the set of Volunteers. Tom reveals, “Rita and I just looked at each other and – kaboing – that was that.” They married in 1988. Tom shares of his wife, “I got lucky, she could have done better.” Rita reveals what she believes to be the secret of their long-term relationship, “We support each other in so many different ways, and want to be married to each other.”  Tom sums up their relationship, “… we have a bond that goes beyond words…”

Denzel and Pauletta Washington

Denzel and Pauletta also met on a movie set, Wilma, in 1977. It wasn’t until several years later and three marriage proposals, however, that they finally tied the knot. Since their marriage in 1983, Denzel has often expressed great appreciation for his wife. At one point when talking about Pauletta, he said that he had gotten lucky and married up! The two actors have had their ups and downs; however, both understand that a successful relationship requires work. Denzel shares, “I just think you have to work at it. Not give up on each other. It’s a commitment.” That and being able to laugh together. Denzel and Pauletta love to tease each other. Their humor and commitment to each other have kept their marriage strong.

Prince William and Kate Middleton

Although you won’t see them in the movies, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are truly a celebrity couple. News of the college sweethearts spread in 2004. Although they had a brief breakup in 2007, they announced their engagement in 2010. Prince William shared, “We just spent more time with each other, had a good giggle, had lots of fun, and realized we share the same interests.” In 2011, Prince William and Kate Middleton tied the knot. Today, the love they share for each other and their three children is evident for all to see. On that subject, Prince William has this to say, “It is fantastic having a lovely little family, and I am so thrilled. Catherine has been doing an amazing job as a mother, and I’m very proud of her.”

Matt and Luciana Damon

Matt Damon and his Argentine wife met in a bar where Luciana worked as a bartender. She shared in a Vogue interview, “He had started getting recognized … it got kind of aggressive because people are drinking and stuff. So, he came and hid behind my bar.” Rather than allowing him to just hang out there, she put him to work. Realizing they shared a magical vibe, their relationship grew. They were married in 2005. Matt credits his wife with keeping their life private life, private and out of the line of the paparazzi. Luciana shares about their life and love, “We both feel really lucky to have met each other, so we don’t take that for granted. It’s life and marriage. Overall, it’s easy, and it’s fun.”

Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith

Three years after his first wife, Cassandra Harris, passed away from cancer, Pierce Brosnan met journalist Keely Smith. Since that time, the man famous for playing the notorious ladies’ man, James Bond, is a one-woman man. After their initial meeting, Keely found him handsome and captivating. “Tall, dark and handsome,” she said. “Everything that everybody would immediately be attracted to. He had this mischievous sparkle in his eyes. I thought, ‘Wow! Wow!’” Love blossomed almost instantaneously for both of them.  At her father’s wedding, Pierce’s late daughter with his first wife, shared, “Just seeing the ultimate love that these two people have for each other is unbelievable.” Pierce shared this about Keely, “I love her vitality, her passion. When Keely looks at me, I go weak at the knees.” What woman wouldn’t want to hear that?

Top 5 Celebrity Comeback Stories

Posted on by scatty

Everyone loves a good comeback story–we feel hope when we see a beloved celebrity go through a tough time and come back better than ever. Here, we’ll take a look at five celebrity comebacks that had everyone cheering for the underdog. 

First, Matthew Perry. The Friends star is known for playing witty, sarcastic Chandler, but few knew that he was living with a prescription drug addiction behind the scenes of the hit show. Fans of the show watched as Matthew went in and out of rehab, and saw his weight fluctuate up and down as he went through the rigors of addiction treatment. Eventually, he overcame his addiction, and has opened up a sober living home for others who are working to get clean and move forward with their lives in recovery. 

Next up: Robery Downey Jr. The Ironman star was once just as well-known for his bad boy behavior as he was for his roles on the silver screen. In the mid-90’s, Robert landed himself in jail after repeated legal issues with drugs and alcohol. His charges over the years included having a loaded gun, breaking parole, and drug possession. After Robert got sober in the early 2000s, he began to land hit movie roles, and showed audiences around the world that there is life after addiction. 

Winona Ryder surprised the world with her arrest. Currently known for her role on Stranger Things, Winona has a list of career hits that’s constantly growing. In the 90’s, she was gaining notoriety and the world was stunned when the actress was arrested for shoplifting. Winona decided that she needed to take a step back and focus on her mental health before going back onto the Hollywood scene. She underwent drug and psychiatric counseling, and eventually returned to the screen to steal the hearts of Netflix audiences. 

Rob Lowe: After wowing moviegoers as a heartthrob in the 80’s, Rob Lowe’s reputation was tainted due to a few sex tape scandals. The actor went on to star in the hit drama The West Wing, and also had a regular role on Parks and Recreation, showing off his comedic chops. Today, Rob says that the scandal pushed him to get sober.

Martha Stewart: home ec phenom and insider trader. Fans of the lifestyle expert were stunned when Martha was sentenced to five months in prison following insider trading charges. Martha spoke candidly about her time in prison, focusing on the positives of the lessons she learned and the relationships she developed while serving time. Martha returned to eh small screen shortly after her release from prison, and today, she’s continually heralded for her new talk show (which, today, has been nominated for six Emmy awards). 

 

5 Products to Help Save You Money

Posted on by scatty

With inflation on the rise and wages stagnant in many parts of the country, families everywhere are searching for ways to save money. While generally buying less can work well, certain products can also save you money.

Making an investment now can save you money in the long run. Let’s talk about five products that will help save you money over time.

1. Hydro Flask Water Bottles

A reusable water bottle keeps plastic water bottles out of the landfill and saves you from buying water while you are out and about. Having the right water bottle to fit your needs can save you time and money—and it is also better for the planet.

Hydro Flask water bottles are made from 18/8 stainless steel, which is not only BPA and phthalates free, but it also keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and keeps hot beverages warm for up to 12 hours. These bottles are practically indestructible and come with a lifetime guarantee.

2. Wool Dryer Balls

Dryer balls are an eco-friendly replacement to purchasing liquid fabric softener and using dryer sheets. They also help dry your clothes up to 40% faster compared to not using them.

SimplrSpaces Wool Dryer Balls are made completely from organic wool. They are safe around babies, pets, and those who have sensitive skin. They will last up to four years or 1000 loads. While they might be a little bit of an investment upfront, they are totally worth it in the long run.

3. Smart Thermostat

The energy you use every day can end up costing you a ton of money. However, having a way to automatically turn down your furnace or air conditioner while you are away from the house can be a great way to save money.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is programable, but it also learns from the programming to create a plan that works for your needs. You can control it from your phone, even while you are out of the house. It also supports saving money by showing temperature settings that are the most energy-saving options.

4. Food Vacuum Sealer

The NutriChef PKVS Sealer automatically seals food so that it stays fresh longer. Once sealed, they are freezer safe and can stay fresh up to five times longer than using a zipper bag or container. You can save money on food and decrease food waste by simply using what you have.

5. Multi-Cooker

Cooking from home can save lots of money over time. A multi-cooker can help you make low-effort, delicious meals to feed the whole family. The Magic Chef MCPSMCSC10S7 6 Qt All-in-One Multi-Cooker can pressure cook, slow cook, cook rice, steam, sear, and even make yogurt. With all of these cooking options, your family will want to stay home to eat!

The 5 Items You Need to Liven Up Your Home Office

Posted on by scatty

If you’re working from a home office, staying mentally and physically healthy is important. 

 

It’s important for your overall sanity, but it’s also important for your work engagement and level of productivity. 

 

To help set you up for success, we want to highlight five amazing items that will make a huge difference health-wise and work-wise for your home office:

 

Our first item is a  Wall Mounted Folding Laptop Desk Hideaway Storage with Drawer – phew! While it’s a mouthful, this compact little piece of furniture is from Wayfair, and we are obsessed. The days of a traditional desk are over, and this wall-mounted desk allows you to open everything up when you’re working and then fold everything up and away when you’re not. Plus, it looks really cute on your wall, it does not take up a lot of space, it’s sturdy, and you can decorate it with all your fun office trinkets. You can install it at any height you want, so it’s perfect for sitting or standing. It’s currently on sale for $123.99, and the biggest thing to note is that it needs to be installed on a wall correctly so it can handle some weight.

 

Our second item is an Adjustable Laptop Computer Stand from OMOTON on Amazon. There are a ton of health benefits to using a standing desk, and this adjustable stand can make any surface a standing desk. Standing desks are better for your back, improve blood circulation, and studies have shown that people who use standing desks are actually more focused. This laptop stand is only $39.99 and is compatible with laptops up to 17” wide. 

 

Our third item is a compliment to items one and two. If you are interested in adding a standing desk to your home office, investing in a high-quality anti-fatigue mat is critical. The Topo Anti-Fatigue mat by Fully is only $99 and will be a game changer for your home office experience. It will keep your body aligned and comfortable while standing all day and is even designed with a little massaging foot ball in the center of the mat.  

 

Our fourth item is from Bose, and we honestly suggest this item for a home- or office-based work environment, it is so amazing. Bose’s QuietComfort Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are fantastic for allowing you to get in the zone and cancel out all the distractions. At $299.99 they are stylish, come with a nice traveling case, are wireless, and connect via Bluetooth to a variety of devices.     

 

Our fifth item is the Ember Mug2 and it’s going to make you rethink your entire hot beverage experience. This is a smart mug. Yes, you heard that correctly. The Ember Mug2 maintains the temperature of your coffee or tea throughout the day, so you can say goodbye to cold coffee that’s been sitting at your desk for hours. It’s sleek, comes in a variety of colors, and you just need to hand wash it. The Ember Mug2 is $129.95 and is worth every penny.