Gadgets Blog » This and That

I grew up in Silicon Valley and was lucky enough to meet some all-time amazing innovators. I grew up around the great minds that created the Internet as we know it today. Google and Apple? They both started in my backyard (figuratively speaking).

When I was young and living in the Bay Area, I took all of the creativity for granted. After all, when you’re ten – who cares? I just wanted to play video games and Barbies with friends. Then in high school, I just wanted to go shopping.

Now that I’m in the Internet industry, I’ve gained a new-found appreciation for the brilliance and innovation that surrounded me as I grew up, and I’ve finally been hit with the Silicon Valley creativity bug – I’m addicted to learning about all-things revolutionary. It’s amazing how the once-mundane parts of my life have suddenly become so inspiring.

Check out this ridiculously cool gadget: the SoloTrek XFV. This beauty was created by a close friend of mine’s father. Imagine a jet-pack flying machine that allows a uuser to -literally- fly over traffic. The device was powered by a jet pack (think: back pack helicopter), and it ran for two hours on gasoline. Talk about bringing imagination to reality: this is the ultimate gadgets story.

The SoloTrek took its first flight in 2001 and has continued to inspire aviation design ever since. If you want to check it out, the SoloTrek is on display at the Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos, California.

Want your own flying gadget? You could start with a helicopter toy. Maybe one day, you’ll see where your own imagination takes you.

In the last couple of days, I’ve encountered the topic of online dating in a variety of contexts. I read about a popular dating site, OkCupid in the New York Times, and I’ve been researching reviews of online dating sites for work. Last night, I spent some time with a college friend who expressed that he was thinking about meeting people online.

Years ago, my friends and I used to make up of online dating as a resource for people who are socially awkward and “undatable.” Now, that perspective has pulled a complete 180. I think that online dating is a great option for busy people. Now that I’m working, I realize how tough it can be to meet people and explore new social circles. When I’m not working, commuting, and running errands, I’m sleeping or working out. Even though I’m lucky enough to be in a happy relationship, I can completely empathize with people who are looking to meet new people and find romance.