5 Best Gifts to Give Your Tech-Savvy Younger Brother

April 21, 2022April 21, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Gift-giving can be tricky, especially when you want to make a good impression on the recipient. The best rule for finding a gift is to consider the personality and interests of who you’re buying the gift for. Consider these five best gifts to give your tech-savvy younger brother, fit for any special occasion.

Gaming Accessories

If your younger brother is a passionate gamer who wants to go pro someday, buying him a few essential gaming accessories is a thoughtful way to upgrade his setup. This is the perfect opportunity to show him you’re willing to invest in hobbies that make him happy while also supporting his dreams.

VR Goggles

Virtual Reality headsets are perfect for your fun-loving brother who enjoys immersing himself in games. This tech allows users to have an interactive and immersive experience by essentially placing them inside the game. Your younger brother will love this gift, especially if he has an affinity for virtual reality games.

Bluetooth Headphones

If your younger brother loves music, invest in Bluetooth headphones as a gift. Many brands, like Apple Airpods, have these wireless headphone options. This gift is incredibly cool for a younger brother who loves music technology and wants to explore different ways to experience music.

Nintendo Switch Lite

This gift is fun and portable, so your younger brother can be entertained on the go. Bonus points if your brother is a huge Nintendo fan! The Switch is ideal if your younger brother travels a lot or loves to take his game everywhere.

Mini Tablet

A mini tablet is a portable and hand-held touchscreen device that your younger brother can use on the go. This device will ensure that your younger brother can easily and readily access games, videos, movies, and more. This is an excellent alternative if your younger brother wants a break from his console or PC.

Use one of these five best gifts to give your tech-savvy younger brother and reduce the stress when shopping for your loved one.

Why Did the Plasma TV Disappear So Quickly?

April 21, 2022April 21, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Remember plasma TVs? Either you remember how fancy these iconic TVs seemed, or maybe you recall Michael Scott of The Office (US) finally broke down and bought one, inclined to stand and watch it for hours. They were all the rage in the late 90s and early 2000s, boasting sleek and sexy designs and crystal-clear picture quality. Manufacturers promised a new era of television viewing.

Today, it seems as if these TVs only exist in secondhand shops. Why did the plasma TV disappear so quickly? Read on to discover what caused the downfall of this TV titan.

Expensive To Manufacture

Despite its clear advantages, plasma TVs turned out to be more expensive to manufacture than LCD TVs. With the global recession, consumers became less willing to spend top dollar on a new TV, and plasma TVs were among the first casualties.

Burn-In Issues

Another issue with plasma TVs was that they were prone to burning in. If you left a static image on the screen for too long, it could burn into the panel and display permanently. This burn-in was a major issue for retailers, who found that customers often returned plasma TVs because of this flaw. The idea of not letting an image burn into your TV persists, even for modern TVs that are immune to the issue!

Electricity Hog

Plasma TVs also tend to use a lot of electricity. Initially, this wasn’t a problem, but as energy prices increased, consumers became more mindful of how much power their electronics used. Plasma TVs can use up to twice as much electricity as other TVs, which is one of the reasons why they’ve fallen out of favor in recent years.

Environmental Concerns

Plasma TVs generate a lot of heat, making them less desirable from an environmental standpoint. In an age where people are increasingly concerned about their carbon footprint, plasma TVs just couldn’t compete with their cooler, more energy-efficient counterparts.

Difficult To Repair

Thanks to their intricate and delicate circuitry, plasma TVs also proved more time-consuming to repair. If something went wrong with a plasma TV, it was often less frustrating—and less expensive—to buy a new one.

However, if you have an old plasma TV lying around and you’re not ready to say goodbye to it just yet, you can buy parts online so you can perform repairs and extend its life. Understanding how a plasma TV works alongside its basic components can help you with this process.

“Why did the plasma TV disappear so quickly?” you might ask. Combined, the multiple realities of this high-tech device make it a less-than-ideal choice for consumers in an increasingly competitive TV market. While they have their advantages, plasma TVs have found themselves in more of a niche market, reserved for sports fans and cinema junkies seeking its rich color range.

Outdoor Activities To Try on Your Next Vacation

April 8, 2022April 6, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Let’s be honest: vacations can be boring if you just sleep in and watch television every day. If you want to make your time off exciting and unforgettable this year, keep these outdoor activities to try on your next vacation in mind. Whether you participate in one or all these activities, you’re sure to have a ton of fun and create some awesome memories.

White-Water Rafting

If you’re searching for an activity that will make your heart race with excitement, look no further. White-water rafting involves racing down a river, avoiding large obstacles, and exploring the great outdoors. It’s a fun, thrilling, unique adventure that you can share with your friends, family members, and fellow adventurers.

If you need to hike to your location, purchase a sturdy pack raft that’s easy to pack and carry in your backpack. Pack rafts are lightweight, strong, portable rafts that are excellent choices for white-water rafting or simply exploring the river.

Zip-Lining

Zip-lining is one of the best ways to get a bird’s-eye view of nature. You’ll feel as though you’re flying when you glide smoothly and safely over a serene lake or gorgeous valley. Zip-lining might not be as scary as skydiving, but keep in mind that ziplines usually travel from 30 to 50 miles per hour, so you’ll definitely feel a rush of adrenaline as you race through the skies!

Camping

The last and probably most popular outdoor activity to try on your next vacation is camping. Take a break from civilization and surround yourself with the beauty and peace of nature. During your camping trip, you can sleep under a sky of shining stars, roast tasty marshmallows over a campfire, and breathe the crisp, fresh outdoor air. Also, remember that you can combine camping with many other fun activities, such as fishing, white-water rafting, road-tripping, hiking, and rock-climbing.

The Best Winter Vacation Spots in the US

April 7, 2022April 6, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Living in the United States, we’re lucky to have a diverse landscape with plenty of winter vacation spots to consider. From California’s wine country to the beaches of Florida, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a snowy mountain escape or a beach getaway, these best winter vacation spots in the US will make your winter break unforgettable.

1) Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is a famous ski resort town in the Rocky Mountains. It’s a winter paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class skiing and snowboarding. During your stay, enjoy a sleigh ride through snow-covered pines, or go ice skating on the frozen lakes nearby.

Don’t forget to take some time out of your busy schedule to visit one of Aspen’s many great restaurants—such as Elway’s Steakhouse or Ajax Tavern—for some delicious food after a day spent playing in the snow.

2) Napa Valley, California

If you’re looking for a winter escape to California’s wine country, look no further than Napa Valley. With its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, Napa Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the US in any season. Here you can visit world-famous wineries such as Robert Mondavi Winery or Chandon for a wine-tasting experience you won’t soon forget.

3) New York City

There’s no place like New York City in the winter. With its festive holiday atmosphere and endless things to do, New York is an excellent destination for a winter vacation. There’s no shortage of things to do here, from sightseeing at world-famous landmarks such as Times Square and the Statue of Liberty to shopping on Fifth Avenue or taking a ride on the famous Central Park Carousel.

4) South Walton, Florida

With its warm weather and beautiful beaches, the Sunshine State is one of the best winter vacation spots in the US. From Daytona Beach to Key West to Miami Beach, there’s something for everyone in Florida.

One of the state’s best-kept secrets is the stretch of beaches and towns known as the 30A. There are numerous reasons to visit the 30A, from its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to the wealth of attractions. It’s a paradise for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and it’s close enough to the big city if you want some nightlife.

5) Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a small town nestled in the mountains, with amazing views. You can ski or snowboard at Ski Santa Fe and other nearby resorts. There are also plenty of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine such as green chili stew, which will warm you up after you’ve played in the snow all day long.

Santa Fe is also home to some of the best art galleries and museums in New Mexico, including the Museum of International Folk Art, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the Meow Wolf Experience. There’s also the Bandelier National Monument, just southwest of Santa Fe, which is a great place to go hiking in the winter.

There’s no shortage of fantastic winter vacation spots in the US—these are just a few of our favorites! Whether you’re looking for a mountain lodge or a beach house, this list has something for everyone.

Top Filmmakers Who Started Late in Life

April 6, 2022April 6, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Do you dream of becoming a filmmaker but fear that Hollywood is exclusively a young person’s world? If so, that’s a hesitancy you should immediately throw away. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams, especially if you want to make films. The filmmaking industry hosts countless examples of mature filmmakers.

Some directors, actors, and cinematographers enter the industry far later than their counterparts. Yet they’ve managed to find massive success. If you want to learn more about famous filmmakers that started later in life, you’re in the right place. Hopefully, their stories will inspire you to pick up a camera and start filming. Keep reading to discover the top filmmakers who began late in life.

Gus Van Sant

A pioneering director of arthouse cinema, Gus Van Sant rose to international fame with Good Will Hunting. His true breakout film was My Own Private Idaho in 1992. So, what’s the catch? He was already over 40 by the time his film came out.

He also directed classics such as Milk and Elephant. He’s living proof that it’s never too late to find success in the film industry.

Ridley Scott

The chances are high that you’re well-acquainted with the films Gladiator and Alien. They’re two of the most recognizable movies in Hollywood history. Ridley Scott often makes lists of the greatest directors of all time. On top of his status as an award-winning filmmaker, he was also a “late bloomer.” Scott didn’t release a feature film until he was 40.

Manoel de Oliveira

While Oliveira started making films at age 19, he didn’t find success until he turned 73, earning him a rightful place among the top filmmakers who started late in life. His age didn’t stop him from going on to enjoy a lucrative film career after his first success, either. He would win numerous awards from prestigious film festivals.

While his career started at 73, Oliveira would go on to enjoy 33 more years of moviemaking. He continued making movies until he turned 106 years old.

That’s our list of late bloomer filmmakers to inspire you never to give up on your career goals. If you have passion in your heart for cinema, then it’s never too late to find success. Simply set yourself up with the filmmaking gear you need, develop connections, and start exploring the visual medium of film!

5 Hobbies You Can Turn Into a Clever Career

February 26, 2022February 24, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

For some people, hobbies are a fun way to pass the time, decompress, or do a bit of both. But for others, hobbies are a fun and easy side hustle. If you need some extra cash, check out the top five hobbies you can turn into a clever career.

Shopping Hobbies

Some of us love clothes shopping, and if you have a passion for fashion, becoming a personal shopper may be the perfect side gig for you. Not only do you get to embrace a hobby you love, but you also get paid to buy outfits for others.

Creative Hobbies

Creativity comes in many forms, stretching from music to writing to painting. If it requires imagination, it falls under the artistic umbrella, which is great news for an art lover. As you turn this hobby into a career, consider which type of art you like most and what you’re best at. You can narrow your options to make the best career choice by doing this!

For example, look for opportunities to become a freelancer if you love writing. On the other hand, if you prefer something hands-on, like jewelry making, check out ways to make a profit by cutting gems. In jewelry-making, you have to take your supplies, time, and market into account before setting prices for your work.

Culinary Hobbies

Opening a bakery or restaurant is anything but easy, not to mention expensive. Embrace your love for treating others with your incredible cooking by transforming it into a side job. You could do this as an occasional side job or start your own catering business.

Nature Hobbies

Whether you love animals or the great outdoors, why not transform one of these passions into your new side gig? Gardening is relaxing and a great way to add some greenery to the Earth! Plus, if you have a talent for design, you could help homeowners create the perfect landscaping to boost their curb appeal.

On the other hand, if you love animals, start a dog walking business so you can spend some quality time with these four-legged companions. As a bonus, you get to set the prices while booking appointments with all your new clients.

Planning Centric Hobbies

Event planning is a great hobby you can turn into a clever career, especially if you’re a total extrovert with great organizational skills. You can help plan anything from family reunion parties to weddings! However, as you turn your hobby into a job, remember to have fun.

5 Flyover States That Are Actually Worth a Visit

February 24, 2022February 24, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

When people look for their next vacation, they often look at the most popular coastal towns or cities as their preferred destinations. Others simply travel internationally to celebrate time off. However, our country has 50 extraordinary states that all offer excellent experiences for a lower price tag. Overlooked areas are often called “flyover states,” but many of these areas contain hidden gems just for you and the family to discover! Check out these five flyover states that are actually worth a visit!

Kansas

The Midwest is much more than Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee. Kansas is a sprawling paradise that features fantastic views and environments. Twelve scenic byways run across the state, and there’s even a collection of local landmarks known as the “eight wonders of Kansas.” Plus, towns like Kansas City and Manhattan are just as fun as their more famous, similarly named contemporaries.

North Dakota

North Dakota offers a smidge more in experiences than South Dakota of the Dakota’s. If you can, you should visit both states; however, the northern option features the world-famous Enchanted Highway. This rugged road cuts through breathtaking grasslands and features eccentric metal sculptures along the way. There are also plenty of wildlife refuges where you can discover the fantastic flora of North America.

Wyoming

Wyoming is most publicly known as the state with the fewest people, but if you ask the roughly 500,000 residents who live there, they’ll tell you about all the great activities their home offers for travelers. The main draw for Wyoming is the wide-open space and true sense of freedom. You can spend a week clearing your mind and taking in the serenity of this location. Wyoming also offers many of the best off-roading spots in the entire country!

Nebraska

Nebraska is definitely not a flyover state, and the area offers many experiences that are perfect for the whole family. You can visit the world’s largest indoor rainforest or venture out to nature to see spectacular rock formations and intriguing terrains. There’s also the largest rail-to-trail project in the entire country that’s worth a visit!

Arkansas

The South has more to offer than the beaches of Florida or the bars of Nashville. People often overlook Arkansas when planning a trip, but the area prides itself on its rich culture and beautiful landscape. Known as the Natural State, Arkansas lets you experience a genuinely captivating vacation at a great value. Arkansas has the nation’s only active diamond mine, the country’s first national park, and cozy hot springs.

These five flyover states that are actually worth a visit are only a few great options for your next domestic vacation. Research ahead of time and find the perfect destination for you and the family!

Most Iconic Lamborghini Models of All Time

February 3, 2022January 28, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

Lamborghini is one of the most iconic automakers in the industry. Known for their innovative, eye-catching designs and the prestigious badge, these beautiful cars certainly scream luxury. These Italian cars have affected the world of sports cars with a name that will last for the foreseeable future.

It’s no wonder why so many people look to ride in one at least once in their life—even if it means renting a Lambo for the day. However, some of the models have serious staying power. These most iconic Lamborghini models of all time are certainly designed to impress.

Miura

First appearing in 1966 at the Geneva International Auto Show, this vehicle changed the way people looked at cars. At the time, this vehicle was the world’s fastest. It was also the first mid-engine vehicle and the first with a transverse V12 engine, making the car as unique as it was breathtaking. With retractable headlights, smooth curves, and a practically perfect silhouette, this car is perhaps the most beautiful ever to grace the roads. To this day, it’s still one of the most iconic Lamborghini models of all time, and it absolutely deserves its spot on the list.

Countach

Despite how rare it is nowadays, you can still find the Countach on posters. Though old, this beautiful car was dramatically designed with sharp angles and a large spoiler that set its silhouette apart from the rest. First appearing in 1971, this car featured a powerful V12 engine—the first of its kind—with 375 horsepower.

Sesto Elemento

The Sesto Elemento, or “six elements,” was aptly named after the element carbon, which has the atomic number six. This is a reference to the vehicle’s body, which is built from carbon fiber. This car is sleekly designed and certain to catch the eye of anyone who sees it.

Murciélago

The Murciélago is attention catching in its own way, but the real excitement comes from the thrill of driving it, not from what you see on the outside. With a curved body and angular lights, it certainly stands out in its own fanatical way. With a 580-horsepower engine, it’s not particularly powerful, but the ride it delivers is exciting on its own.

Huracán

The Huracán, named for the Mayan god of wind, fire, and storm, exudes speed. Featuring the 5.2-liter V10 engine known from the Gallardo, this sporty car still provides plenty of value that sets it apart from the rest. This is the best-selling Lamborghini in existence, and for good reason. With over 14,000 units sold around the world, it’s incredibly recognizable.

5 Best Types of Vehicles for Off-Roading

January 26, 2022January 28, 2022 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

When you want to get away from city life for a bit, one of the best things you can do is off-road driving. It’s a call for adventure that many can’t easily decline. However, it won’t be complete if you’re not riding the five best types of vehicles for off-roading.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

There are many reasons Jeeps are perfect for off-roading hobbyists, and the one sitting at the top is none other than the classic Jeep Wrangler. Look for the Rubicon trim if you want the finest model. Its specs are supreme, making it reliable for any landscape. It has steel bumpers, a 4:1 gear ratio, 33-inch all-terrain wheels, electronic locking differentials, and Dana 44 axles for the rear and front.

Ford F-150 Raptor

As another off-road legend, the Ford Raptor is now in its third generation, and it’s still going strong. It has a broad, aggressive stance with the most cutting-edge off-road technologies on the market right now. Its most recent design includes a 15-inch rear suspension and a 14-inch front suspension. Its engine, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, produces 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque, which is great for any tenacious ground.

Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

This SUV’s V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission are both old gems. Nevertheless, doing things the old way isn’t always bad if you want to go off-roading. While the 4Runner’s motor, platform, and design are vintage, the rest of its parts are updated. The TRD Pro includes TRD springs, TRD-tuned Fox shocks, Nitto all-terrain tires, and thick skid plates.

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

Of course, the best types of vehicles for off-roading would include a Chevy. This ride is a wonderful selection for anyone looking for a mid-size truck to travel with. It has a 3.5-inch wider track width and a 2-inch higher ride height than the original Colorado. It rides on Goodyear DuraTrac tires with a diameter of 31 inches to take on any road.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Before it was a celebrity favorite, the G-Class was an adequate military vehicle. That’s because it’s capable of carrying multiple people and objects across challenging fields. With its three locking differentials, two-speed transfer case, and a G Mode for non-AMG vehicles, this one is an extremely competent off-roader.

What To Wear to Your First Country Music Concert

December 13, 2021December 13, 2021 ~ Mallory Knee ~ Leave a comment

A part of going to a concert is planning out the perfect outfit to match the vibe as you enjoy the music. Country concerts are fun to attend and dress for since you can sport some styling boots with your best denim. As you plan out your outfit, try out some of these tips on what to wear to your first country music concert for a fashionable and comfortable look.

Wear Denim

Aim to have at least one piece of denim clothing as part of your outfit. This could be a pair of jeans or a jacket—both say country. What’s important is you wear something comfortable. So don’t wear long pants to an outdoor concert during the dog days of summer.

Pro-Tip

Don’t forget about a belt with a decorative buckle. Not only is this an ideal accent piece, but it also adds to the Western look without making you seem like a stereotype. Simple accessories like a belt or hat can go a long way and take your outfit one step further.

Never Forget Your Boots

Nothing quite says country like a fantastic pair of Western boots, and they pair with just about everything. For a summer concert, throw on a romper or sundress with some cowboy boots, and in autumn, pair them with leggings and a sweater. Your options are endless.

If you don’t already have a pair of boots, you have an excuse to plan a shopping trip. Before you hit the stores, narrow your scope by understanding the different toe shapes, heel heights, and boot styles. Simply searching “cowboy boots” will leave you overwhelmed with options.

Pick the Right Shirt

As you plan out what to wear to your first country music concert, keep in mind that the top you choose depends on the look you want to create. Flannel looks great on everyone, and you can wear it with leggings, jeans, or shorts. On the other hand, plenty of women enjoy wearing loose-fitting or otherwise flowy shirts to concerts.

When planning your outfit, what’s most important is that you feel comfortable and confident. After all, this is your first country concert, so remember to have a blast as you make memories!