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My sister worked in a baby products store and when visiting her I was amazed with the technology and sophistication of the strollers in the store. The one above has shock absorbers, compartments to hold bags or other items, a removable seat that clips into a car, as well as a reversible handle that allows the parent to have the baby facing towards or away from them. In addition, these strollers are also very light and easy to maneuver. The thoughtfulness of this design and understanding of the needs of parents with young children is present in every element of this design.

This is a throwback but k'nex was one of the best toys around when I was growing up.  These differently shaped plastic pieces connect together and many different ways making all sorts of constructions possible. This is a smart toy that gives kids models to build but also the tools to branch off on their own and create something new and creative. More possibilities are opened up by the battery powered devices that connect to your design and make it move. For example, it is possible to make a spinning ferris wheel with k'nex. I have also seen a 10 foot t rex made out of k'nex. The best part of k'nex is that, because there are so many different possibilities, kids are challenged to go big and be creative in their designs. 

I was on a Habitat for Humanity trip this week and was exposed to the world of ingenious construction tools for the first time. In particular, I feel in love with this chalk string tool. Instead of using a yard stick or tape measure to make straight line by connecting individual tick marks, this tool allows the builder to make a straight line by connecting only two tick marks. Once the string is lined up, pulling it and letting it slap back against the board, leaving a straight and visible line to cut along. This tool saves a lot of time and improves accuracy. 

Cell phone cases with card holders on the back. Just adding a slot in back of a cell phone case, transforms it from a semi-useful fashion statement into a wallet containing everything you need for the day. Now that the phone and the internet have been combined, why not the phone and the wallet? I like this idea because it is simple yet very useful.

Kathryn Kelley