I've got gadgets and gizmos aplenty

I know I just wrote a post about taking a break from my phone, but that doesn't mean I am anti-technology. In fact, I recently got two new gadgets I am so excited about, I thought I would share the news with my small, but loyal group of readers.

The first purchase was a lime green Fitbit Flex. Jason got one too, in black. And since each one comes with large and small wristbands, I have Jason's extra black band to swap in for a more subtle look. Anyway, this thing tracks my steps, notes any periods of intense activity, analyzes my sleep, including when I'm restless or awake, and even estimates my calories in vs out.

So far, it has done its job and has pushed me to exercise and get in my steps even when I don't feel like it. I had no problem reaching my goal of 10,000 steps every day in Chicago -- I walk about 20 minutes each way for my commute -- but it's been more difficult in Florida with all of the book reading, TV watching, and knitting I'm doing. One night after dinner, Jason and I even walked up and down my parents' street in the dark to try to meet our goal. Every step counts, right? Here's what the desktop interface looks like (there's also a phone app). You click each section for a more detailed break-down:

As you can see, Jason is winning the weekly steps race. And obviously, I am on vacation if I am getting 8 hours of sleep at night!

My second favorite purchase was a Sonicare electric toothbrush. I did not bring this with me on vacation, even though it comes with a travel case, but I wish I did. I miss it desperately! This wonderful (and expensive) toothbrush gets my teeth so clean, I feel like I've just come from the dentist. I have receding gums, unfortunately, from years of aggressive brushing, so I bought this thing to try and delay or maybe even prevent gum replacement surgery (whatever that is, it does not sound like fun).

The toothbrush does all the work, I just have to move it back and forth until it beeps and I move onto the next section. Easy. Hopefully it does its job and my next visit to the dentist will be filled with good news. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Here's to a happy and healthy 2014!