So the media is at it again with predictions of one of the top 10 blizzards of all time for the Northeast this weekend — or not (I saw 3 – 30 inches of snow. There is a big difference – no?) That said, after lamenting the fact that my iphone weather app and my weather.com app both have been pretty lame (and generally not correct in the prediction department), I found a few new recommended, inexpensive weather apps that could be handy this weekend in the Northeast.
Dark Sky is “a new kind of weather app. It uses state-of-the-art weather forecasting to predict when it will rain or snow — down to the minute — at your exact location, and presents it to you alongside the most beautiful radar visualizations you’ve ever seen.” ($3.99 on the iTunes store. Seems worth the $$ if the forecasts are accurate – and the feedback is all raves!)
Today Weather is “a beautiful, gesture-based weather app for the iPhone.” They have “reimagined how to display weather information, all while keeping Today clean, fast, and incredibly powerful for those just wanting the temperature and weather geeks alike.” ($0.99 on the iTunes store. A better value for the Price Wise shopper?)
If the warnings are getting more real, download iMap Weather Radio, an iOS and Android app which either tracks your location or follows a set of locations you select. If a weather alert is issued for where you are, the app will automatically alert you. It’ll also let you tune in to local weather television broadcasts. ($9.99 on the iTunes store. Definitely worth it if you live anywhere stores are frequent – which is pretty much anywhere these days!)
Don’t forget, every emergency preparedness kit should have a flashlight — make sure the batteries are fresh and you know where to find them in your home. But for a quick backup solution, download a Flashlight app to turn your phone’s camera flash into a solid beam of light. Try this free Flashlight app.
I also found a few great links on post storm travel after Hurricane Sandy which have to be relevant post mega-blizzard, too: Booking Winter Flights? Five Lessons Learned from Hurricane Sandy from Conde Nast Traveler and What Airlines are Doing Right and Wrong from the Cranky Flier.
I was having a tough day at work and my friend (and colleague), Diane, sent me this awesome video of affirmations. Try not to feel better after watching this video! Just try! (I am making a list of all of the great things I like about my life right now!) [Note: hit refresh on your browser if you do not see a video below.]
Ok – it’s getting to be crunch time for V-day gifts, but I can help!
> Get $10 credit on fun V-day gifts from Fab. Sign up here and then go to this page to get your credit. Act fast – credit expires 2/14/2013.
> Here is a win-win idea. Every February for the past nine years, PrettyCity.com has teamed up with The Heart Truth® to present a stress-reducing, body-loving campaign called Love You®. Love You® aims to remind women everywhere to take charge of their own heart health & to treat themselves. Have a heart this February and show yourself some love! Check out Love You offers online and in Illinois, New York, California, Florida, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Texas, Georgia, Indiana and Ohio.
> Check out great Valentine’s spa deals (30-60% off!) in cities across the country at Travelzoo.
> The folks from Blissmo are offering special deals on gift boxes that are perfect for V-day. Select from 1 of 4 limited-quantity boxes, each only $19.95 (up to 60% off) + FREE SHIPPING. Includes “Night Lovin’” and one for him! But hurry, sale ends 5pm Pacific today, Friday, February 8th, 2013.
Gilt City is still at it. Here are some highlights:
> Get 50% off on French Connection clothes in store or online
> $20 for $40 (and other great deals) for some saucy stuff from Booty Parlor
> Get 40 – 52% off at Blessed Charm for cool jewelry online
> In Chicago, check out a variety of great specials for beautiful floral deliveries, BYOB cake or cupcake decorating class for 2 at Give Me Some Sugar and other great Chicago deals
> In LA, check out saucy boudoir photos from Boudoir Photos LA and other great deals
> In NY, check out deals at Exhale Spa (hello – couples massage at 30% off – win win for sure!), vegetarian cooking classes or meal delivery from Bhagavat Life or a saucy photo shoot at Rue Boudoir and other great NYC deals.
> Bloomspot still has 50% off at Blue Nile online ($75 for $150 only)
> Is your Valentine a runner? Nothing says I love you like anti-microbial shoe inserts! Check out this great deal at Gearbuzz; since I have promised to stop buying running gear I don’t need so someone should definitely gift this awesome Goodbye Girl running top from Trailheads for only $38 – 50% off at Gearbuzz!
> Hey runner ladies, when you register for the Chicago Women’s Half Marathon & 5K during the month of February you will receive this special kit in honor of American Heart Month! The race benefits American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement. It will be held on June 23rd in Chicago – come check it out – GREAT swag and a good time!
> Also, Ashley from Running Bun is giving away an entry to the New York 13.1 Half Marathon on 3/23/2013. You have to be in it to win it.
OK – that’s all for now! I hope you all have a happy Friday and that all stay safe, sound and warm if the blizzard hits! (And, I promise to stop talking about saucy V-day gifts after this– until next year!)