Gizmo

A few months back, we became members of the local public radio station. The decision to do so was a tricky one, since we really miss WBEZ and feel like KQED has some catching up to do programming-wise. Some of the stuff that airs here lends credence to the definition of "liberal" as someone so open-minded their brain has fallen out. But hey, they're still the best game in town so we contribute and just write e-mails to complain about the worst of the drivel.

At any rate, our "thank you gift" arrived in the mail today, also to mixed reviews. We're all agreed that it doesn't actually fulfill a burning need in our lives. I think it's pretty cool. I also think it's probably more useful than a canvas tote bag-feel free to disagree...

The item in question is a Solio solar charger. It's a charger that can be plugged into the wall, but is designed to be plugged into the sun. Three cute little solar panels fold out to charge the unit's internal battery and whatever little device needs powering. Phones, music players, etc. It has adapter tips for pretty much every kind of cell phone, USB and mini USB, and even 12volt. All very exciting. Granted, we don't haul that much gear around with us on a regular basis and this might be a time-consuming way to keep the cell phone charged, but it seems like a good idea. Having it in hand at least gives me the chance to figure out what I can do with it.