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Are iPhones Built to Break? (2017 Edition)

Every couple of years, our phones begin to function improperly and we are forced to purchase a new phone. Is this a coincidence, or is it part of a larger plan? Planned obsolescence is the design of a product to only last a certain period of time. It would make sense to design iPhones in this way, to encourage consumers to buy the latest and greatest devices more often. Not everyone is enthused by the latest gadget, but by rendering their previous device useless after a period of time, even those individuals are forced to take part in this trend. In addition, many newer gadgets are made more difficult to repair. An ink cartridge, for example, could have its lifespan expanded by using a simple paperclip in a tiny hole. Don't count on this trick now, as those reset holes aren't seen on most modern ink cartridges. Ink cartridges nowadays have computer chips that tell the printer when ink is low. This leaves a great deal of ink that you can never use. In regards to phones an...

YouTube Spotlight: Travel Vlogs and Guides (2017 Edition)

Recently I have been watching tons of travel vlogs, guides, etc. for personal research. Whether you want to travel and don't know where to start, or you want to live vicariously through other travelers, these videos are for you. How to Travel Guide by HeyNadine - This comprehensive how-to guide goes over all of the basics of planning to travel. From where to travel to how to budget, this playlist has been very helpful to me. Not only that, but Nadine approaches this guide with such a kind and comforting tone. If you want to travel but have your doubts, this series will clear up much of your hesitation. How to Save Money for Travel with HeyNadine and Kristen Sarah - Travel cost is one of the most intimidating aspects of travel. If you want to travel but don't know how to save enough money, this video includes a variety of tips to help you out. This video is also a collab between several vloggers, giving their unique perspectives. Travel Vlogs by Haus of Color - Ther...

Online Learning: The Myths, The Tips, and is it Right for You?

Would it surprise you to know I attended an online school? Yes, for grades 8-12, I was part of an online school (the rest of my elementary/ middle school career I spent in local public schools). As a very shy/ responsible student, online schooling was the better option for me and although there were pros and cons (as with everything) I am very happy I had that option. Like with anything different though, most people I talked to didn't understand the concept of online schooling, which was incredibly frustrating. I worked hard and learned a lot, just like any other student. And in fact, there were even more lessons I was learning along the way that "typical" students might not get. So today, let's talk about online schooling. What is it? How does it work? And, is it right for your child? What is online schooling? Online Schooling is just as it sounds; it's a program where you take classes completely or primarily online. I have taken online courses as a ...

How to Collage with Inkscape

Greetings! Today I wanted to share a method I use for creating artwork...one that is quick, easy, and somewhat addicting. Creating collage using a digital program may seem daunting, but it's actually a really easy way to make art, especially if you're not as gifted in the whole technical aspect. For today I am using Inkscape, which at this time is a free program that can be downloaded (you can get it from their official website: https://inkscape.org/en/download/). Keep in mind the techniques I'm using today are somewhat advanced and although I will try to walk through it as simply as possible, you may also consider experimenting and becoming more familiar with Inkscape if you are a first time user before attempting this tutorial. The first step for any type of collage-making is to collect materials for collage. Doing this digitally is easy, since there are so many great images on the internet. Google images is great for getting images if you know what specifically you...

Skin Care - A Primer

Now that we have done a primer for makeup, it is about time we do the same for skin care. Before we get started, I want to start by saying that I personally have very dry skin. Oily skin is not much of an issue for me, but moisturizing is very important part of my everyday routine. Because of this, I have adapted my skin care regimen to fit my personal needs, which will be reflected by my recommendations and the products I use. Also, skin care can be a little tricky, especially if you have more skin sensitivity or allergies, which means a product that I really like might cause irritation, or visa versa. Anyways, please keep those items in mind as we fall through the skin care rabbit hole. Types of Skin Care Products There are a variety of skin care products, so going over the types of products and what they claim to do, I think, is a good place to start Moisturizer Moisturizers help keep your skin feeling soft and smooth and can also calm irritation from ac...

The Follower: A Short Story

It is 8:53pm. “Are you sure I can’t give you a ride home? It’s really no trouble.” “I appreciate the offer, but I will be fine.” I say. “Well if I can’t convince you...good luck. Stay safe.” My coworker grabs his bag and leaves the building. I watch as the headlights of his car turn on and he pulls out of the lot. The lot is empty. I continue to work, cleaning tables, counting contents of the register, doing inventory. I talk myself through chores in the silence, the fluorescent lights buzzing above me. I check the time. 9:24pm. Last bus leaves at 9:50pm. I grab my bag from the closet, grab my keys, and scurry to the door. I shut off the lights with a Click! The air outside hits me cold as I lock the front door behind me. I turn away and hoist up my coat, blanketing myself in its warmth. It's 9:32pm. I walk straight down the center of the parking lot. I hear the sound of dogs barking in the distance, alongside the tapping of my shoes against the cement. There are but...