23Things...evaluation

I learned so much by doing these 23 Things.  First and foremost is that I definitely feel more comfortable using my iPad. I have learned how to download apps, connect them to social communities, and I use my device every single day for many tasks.

And, as a result of this experience, I purchased a Smart phone and have transferred some of these things to my phone and feel confident in using it on a daily basis.

I especially found the tutorials very helpful, and the short descriptions were a Godsend. I am a concrete learner and the step by step aided in my learning process.

I would have to say my most favorite is the game, Candy Crush...but it is also becoming a habit, and I am hooked on it.  I am not sure that is a good thing.  I also like the navigation apps.

I was surprised at the social connections that came out of using some of the apps. Through them, I reconnected with Facebook friends, and have become more interactive, and not just a Facebook stalker.

I am do glad I participated in these 23 Things, as I increased my knowledge of using devices immensely, and I would certainly consider partaking in another 23Things learning activity.

23 Mobile Things is definitely a path to grabbing knowledge and expertise, and all in the comfort of your home, and a means to accessing the world at your fingertips.

Thing 22...discovering apps

I tried the Quixley website and found that I really didn't need a search engine to find apps I might use. Instead, I will continue to use the App Store searching (which I found easier for me) and word of mouth to find the apps I choose to use.  I have a network of Facebook friends and coworkers who are consistently digging up useful and interesting apps and they like to share the information. In other words, they do the legwork, and I can reap the benefits.

Thing 21..Free for all

I have been a weight watcher for many years, but since our local group disbanded, I have been looking for something to keep me motivated...for free. So, while completing my 23 things, I found two sites that I have been using. One of them is My Fitness Pal and the other is Sparkpeople.

My Fitness Pal is free and records everything that weight watchers online does without the cost and the push to purchase their products, and like weight watchers it works.

The same is basically true of Sparkpeople, but I found that the app has a slight charge, but not a monthly charge.

I am going to continue to use them both until I pick a favorite. But I do use them every day, and I know I need some kind of tracker and motivation to keep my weight off.

Thing 20...games

Ok, I'm hooked. Candy crush saga caught my attention and kept it.  I'm not much of a game player, but this one was easy to learn and kept me interested enough to keep going. I might even have to put it on my phone to help pass the time while traveling.  I will definitely continent to play this one...might even have to share my scores....once I get better at it.

Thing 19

I uploaded the gardening app. I was surprised to see how much information there was about each plant. I loved the pictures, and the ability to share gardening ideas with other users. Once winter ends, I know that I will define tell use this app because I have some plants I need to identify in my flower garden.  So far, this is my favorite app of all of them I have tried.

Thing 18

I tried the art circles app and the "Eat this, not that" app.  I was intrigued by the art app, and would go back to it because I enjoy dabbling in great art.  I also think our art teacher would make great use of this app, so I plan on sending her the info.

As for the "eat this" game app, it was fun, had great graphics, and sounds. It included versions for all users...adults and kids alike.   It was simple, easy to figure out and also offered a challenging version for those "foodies" that are up on healthy food options. I might use it for awhile, but probably would not continue forever. The kid version would be great for elementary students.

Thing 17...connecting to the community

I tried three of the apps,  The Minnesota state fair app,  The exploring Minnesota app and The MN road condition app.

I think that I would use them all in my personal life.  And I think those in 4H would get great information from the state fair app. It would be extremely helpful while attending the fair because it covers all information from parking to eating to entertainment and lets you know where they are located, and how to get there.

I looked at Exploring Minnesota because I am planning a Minnesota road trip in the near future.

And I know I would use the road condition app especially in this way too long winter of ice and snow.

I could have looked at many more because there are so many interesting ones. If I lived in the Twin Cities, many of them would be extremely handy. I didn't find one for the Renaissance Festival.