Last week, I read on Facebook that non-profit Guiding Eyes would be taking a few puppies and service dogs to Union Square (NYC) so people could meet them and learn more about the nonprofit (and volunteer opportunities.)

Since meeting the puppies in Union Square (they are even cuter in real life than in the pictures, if that’s even possible,) I’ve started to notice all the inspiring stories of the dedicated and unselfish love of service animals and the change they make in the lives of those that need them.

The stories of the most recent set of owners and their canine graduates are incredible.

Becky shares, “I’ve been blind all my life but didn’t get my first guide dog until 15 years ago. I don’t dwell on regrets, but if there were one that would stand out, it would be that I didn’t get a guide dog sooner. The ability to walk confidently with my dog – knowing that he will stop at curbs and stairs and will object if I happen to make an unsafe traffic judgment – gives me an indescribable sense of freedom. A new dog makes you think about new things you can do – new roads and new beginnings.”

“So, where did you two meet?” — It’s always a fun question to answer, regardless of where you actually did meet.

Is a common platform necessary in a relationship?

Maybe you wouldn’t think so at first, but when I saw this comic, it made me think about what our tech personality has to do with who we date and where we might end up finding them…

Could I date a windows OS-only user? I’m not sure. I think it would be a tough transition. Luckily, right now I am also dating a mac user, so that is not a current concern….

[Dislaimer: I'm a Mac.]

// via etsy

Everything is vying for our attention. EVERYTHING.

And in time, maybe we’ll train ourselves to become better at managing the hierarchy of distractions (infographic shoutout!) but in today’s world, the expectations are increasingly becoming that we’ll repond to everything, from wherever we are and whatever we are doing.

We bring our smart phones to bed. People use them in the bathroom (ew, but true). We hate turning them off when the plane is about to take off, and rush to turn them back on when we’ve landed.

Often it’s “too much to ask” to have someone turn off their phone when you’re spending time with them. There’s always the e-mail from work you’re expecting, that text message from a friend you’re meeting up with later,  or an update email from a family member who’s going through a rough time. Now add in the mobile apps, status updates, comments, and checking in.

Bottom line: there’s a lot going on out there.

So when it comes down to giving a gift – there’s nothing more thoughtful or romantic than giving the gift of your full attention (that’s right- phone off).

Can you do it?

//Purchase The “Phonekerchief” via Uncommon Goods for $15

BONUS: how it works –

The Phonekerchief fabric is conductive (conducts electricity) because it is partially made up of silver fibers. When the fabric creates an unbroken enclosure (when it is wrapped tightly around a phone without any gaps), it creates a phenomenon that is known in science as a “Faraday Cage”. This means that any external static electrical field, such as a phone signal, will cause the electrical charges within the conducting fabric to redistribute themselves so as to cancel the field’s effects on what is inside. In order for the Phonekerchief to work effectively, the fabric must be wrapped tightly around the phone and create an unbroken enclosure.

A heartfelt message in a physical medium. Sometimes there’s nothing better.

I know this may come across as a shocking message from someone who writes a blog called “Techyness” – but I have to admit that sometimes Techyness is the decision to go offline, old school, or paper instead of digital. And there’s power in that.

And to all of you who are looking to find that special something for that special someone (regardless of your thoughts on the validity of valentines day as a real holiday) I have to challenge all you techies and non-techies alike to take it offline.

Make the choice to be proactive and look for something ahead of time (but its okay to look online, hehe), something that can be delivered IRL to someone that is special in your life.

One example of a way to take things offline is to get a love letter- a message in a bottle – delivered.

While doing my typical search for cool stuff on Etsy, I found a vendor who will hand-type your message on an old typewriter, seal it with an old school wax stamp, and send it directly to the intended recipient. All for $18.

So go ahead, spend less than $20 and send something IRL to someone you care for.

//image via etsy ($18)

The holidays are a time where it is SO easy to get caught up in the shopping (hard not to!) and all of the pretty things that are tempting to buy – things we do not have, things others do.

However, on days like these, when I’m home with the family (and the dog! yes!) it becomes ever so clear that all that really matters is the people that you love, and love you back.

That’s why I’ve chosen this infographic today- because yes, it is true that I cannot live without delicious beverages (COFFEE), nice people, car trips, the people in my life – and animals. And I am thankful for all of these things that help to even out the stress, the hard work, and the emotions and pains that we face in our lives.

I hope that this time of year is both inspiring and relaxing to all of you out there.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

//illustration via rosewong

Has social media ever placed you in a compromising situation with a significant other? Do you have a mutual understanding on social media use? Have tweets, checkins, wall or picture posts caused a fight or a misunderstanding in a relationship?

Beyond branding and business uses, social media at its core drives information exchange that helps to build relationships and communities. Information sharing on the open web comes with it’s own set of concerns that extends beyond the self.

When it comes to dating, what are your boundaries? Have you discussed social media openly with your significant other?

Regardless of your social media expertise, here are 4 rules to consider when dealing with social media challenges in your relationship.

4) Don’t Pretend You Didn’t Read/See/Click
If you’re in a relationship where both people “check-in” to locations, post photos on Flickr and Facebook, run a blog or Tumblr, and converse with others openly on Twitter, it’s okay to pay attention and/or refer to them in normal conversation.

Some may think reading what your significant other posts is “creepy” or inappropriate, but think about it this way – if it’s posted, what’s wrong with reading it? Plus, you may get a few ideas for upcoming gifts or surprises for your special someone.

3) Discuss What’s OK and What’s Not
Levels of openness online depends fully on the individual, which is why it’s important to bring up your expectations regarding what’s OK to post or made public – and what should be left out.

A few ideas on what to discuss: Photo tagging, location check-ins, blog posts, tweet content, and anything that references your alias or full name (because it will show up in search engine results!) Consider the privacy of you and your partner and decide what’s best for the long-term. Tip: To keep track of how you’re referenced online, set up a set of Google Alerts for your name or twitter handle, and xxx.

If this is uncomfortable to bring up in an early relationship, consider offering to post photos together. While you’re logged into Facebook, you can easily ask questions about security settings (Hey- who can see these photos?) among any other burning questions you may have.

2) Ask If You’re Concerned
Speak up if you’re not comfortable with the context of a particular Tweet, blog post, Facebook comment or friend request, and let your partner know it’s OK to ask.

Strange post from an ex? Flirty messages on Twitter? Foursquare check-in at a private location? It’s always best to bring it up early so you don’t spend an hour doing Internet research to find out details on “some girl” or “some guy.” Chances are it’s miscommunication, but it’s always best to keep the channels open.

To be proactive on this topic, consider sharing stories about how you met or know certain individuals that you interact with on Twitter or Facebook – this will not only strengthen your relationship by building trust, but you’ll learn a thing or two.

1) Look Good Online
Your social presence should be a reflection of who you are – your personality, interests, intellect and aspirations.

What it shouldn’t do is make you look passive-aggressive, jealous or obsessive about your personal life. Keep in mind that there’s a strong chance that future prospects (and parents, employers) will check out your profiles and past history. It is on the Internet, after all.

For additional and ongoing advice on the topic, check out Facebook and Marriage, a book by real-life counselors and married couple K. Jason and Kelli Krafsky. Or, follow them on Twitter @FB_and_Marriage to get advice and even ask the tough questions.

What are your thoughts on social media and dating? Please post advice you would like to share in the comments.

Working from the Porch - The Good Life :)

Happy Easter Sunday to All!

Miss Techyness is blogging to you live from sunny Key West, Florida — and so I’d like to share a warm “Happy Easter” greeting to all.

Regarding techyness levels here on the island, I’d have to say the foursquare use is pretty low, as I am continuously adding new venues — while simultaneously explaining to my 8 family members what exactly foursquare is and why I use it.

One venue that I added today (with plans to be mayor!) is bésame mucho. This wonderful store embodies everything I’d ever want in a real-life, physical store. And it’s more than just the name, which means “kiss me often” and comes from a 1940′s spanish song.

The store owner and I had a few techy conversations, first- regarding our love for florence and then regarding my “Keep Calm and Carry On” print purchase from sfgirlbybay on Etsy, and then about our favorite blogs, including sea of shoes and sfgirlbybay’s blog. I’m hoping she takes my advice and starts up a blog!

If you’re interested in the song that inspired the store name, check out the video below with bocelli singing (love it)

(a few lines from the song)

Bésame, bésame mucho,
Como si fuera esta noche la última vez.
Bésame, bésame mucho,
Que tengo miedo a perderte, perderte después.

(love this).

Since it’s valentine’s day, and on valentine’s day you post something cute about loooove.

So you want to buy a gadget, or something techy for that special someone in your life? How about taking a romantic twist on a gift?

For the past few years, I have taken on a new role… gift consultant. Sure, you might ask, how are you qualified? Maybe it’s because I watch a lot of movies, have a strong imagination, or just because I’m a hopeless romantic.

First, I’ll take you through a few Valentine’s Day gift scenarios I have passed along to close friends. I hope you’ll find some inspiration… but please leave a comment with your suggestions on cute and romantic gifts you have done for someone on Valentine’s Day.

Gift Scenario 1: Girlfriend likes to cook. Boyfriend would like to continue this hobby.

Outcome: Boyfriend purchased an apron from Williams-Sonoma ($19) in girlfriend’s favorite color along with some cooking supplies. Sounds normal right? Take it up the extra notch by writing a note and having it embroidered on the bottom of the apron. LOVE.

Online Tools: I would recommend having the apron embroidered locally. But if you want something embroidered that is “standard” you can order it from any online embroidery website.

Gift Scenario 2: Girlfriend wants a dog and something from Tiffany.  Boyfriend does not want to buy her a dog.

Outcome: Boyfriend purchases the same dog that girlfriend wants, but a stuffed animal dog, and puts the Tiffany necklace around it’s neck. Then puts it in a box with holes in it. done.

Online Tools: Stuffed Animal World has many varieties of stuffed animals (you could guess) but the dogs from Douglas Cuddle Toy (weird name) are great.

Gift Scenario 3: Girlfriend wants a digital camera. Boyfriend buys digital camera. Gift consultant (me) recommends making it a little more romantic.

Outcome: Camera is purchased. Boyfriend takes camera out of the box and charges it without disrupting the packaging. Boyfriend takes photos of clues that lead to each other and finally ends at something romantic (roses, dinner, etc.). Another suggestion is to have photos of boyfriend holding up cards saying “I love you” on the camera, so when she turns the camera on, they are there!

Of course, the inspiration for this was Love Actually, with the cards…

please share your ideas in the comments! What gifts have you passed along to someone you <3? What are your valentine’s day plans?