The 2024 Wishmas Guide... Hub!

Yo Yo Yo! Don't look now, but it's that time of the year again. Grab the hot chocolate and your favorite holiday snack as we jump into the Wishmas Guide for 2024! This year we're serving things up a little different folks (just a teensy weensy bit). So... this is what we'll call the Wishmas Guide... Hub! A portion of individuals we've met around Orlando this year, actually contributed to these guides in a round about way... just based on their collective needs + wants + frustrations.

This hub post will represent items good for any member of the family regardless of age or gender for the most part. For the other guide's related to Younglings, the Ladies, Gents, and the... Office will be in separate posts (as usual) that are accessible through this... hub! Stay tuned!

 Elevate Your Family TV Time with Surround Sound 

This year, in the name of family time, whether you're playing games or watching a movie together, consider upgrading from your TV's built-in speakers. A true 5.1 channel surround sound system with Dolby Atmos and/or DTS:X is the perfect addition to your living room. Audio is one of those features that's always appreciated, especially when it comes to headphones, but I've noticed that many living room setups are missing that extra oomph. It's a personal choice, but investing in a quality sound system can take your entertainment to the next level. It's not about having a louder entertainment experience... it's all about the depth of the experience, and if you find yourself watching the latest movies at home don't leave an ounce of enjoyment on the table. 

By the way, before I go into this... (maybe it's just me but) I've always felt weird about placing a subwoofer off to the side rather than front and center. If you have the ability to place it under your livingroom table or under a high enough entertainment center... I think the placement works better. If you have space behind the couch in the center, that works as well and... some newer options can be controlled by your phone if you.

Two options under the $200 mark are the 2024 models of the Vizio & Ultimea model seen below:

Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE

Soundbar

Right & Left Surround Speakers

Compact Wireless Subwoofer

Dolby Atmos + DTS:X

Bluetooth

HDMI eARC

Optical Output

Ultimea True 5.1 Soundbar Poseidon D60

Soundbar

Right & Left Surround Speakers

Wireless Subwoofer

Dolby Atmos + DTS:X

Bluetooth

HDMI eARC

Auxiliary

Optical

The placement of a subwoofer can significantly impact the quality of sound in your home theater or living room setup. While it doesn't necessarily have to be placed in the center of the viewing area, there are some guidelines to follow for optimal sound:

1. Corner Placement: Placing the subwoofer in a corner can enhance the bass response by utilizing the walls to amplify the sound.

2. Front of the Room: Positioning the subwoofer at the front of the room, near the main speakers, can create a more cohesive soundstage.

3. Experimentation: The best placement can vary depending on the room's acoustics. It's often recommended to experiment with different locations to find the spot that provides the best bass response.

Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a balanced and immersive sound experience, so feel free to move the subwoofer around and test different positions to see what works best for your space.

See More Options

 Family Fun with Nintendo Switch Games 

While it might be tempting to say wait for the new Nintendo Switch 2, expected to announced during the first half of... 2025, not everyone wants to put family game time on pause. Many parents I've spoken to in Orlando would love to see cellphones set aside for more family fun. Luckily, there are plenty of options to make that happen with multiplayer action. Here are multiple Nintendo Switch games with 4-player fun:

1. 
   Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: This game offers a fun and chaotic multiplayer experience as players work together to complete levels and collect power-ups.
   
   
2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: A classic racing game that never gets old. Compete against each other in exciting races and battle modes.
   
   
3. Overcooked! All You Can Eat: A hilarious and frantic cooking game where teamwork is key to serving up dishes in crazy kitchens.
   
   
4. Minecraft: Explore, build, and survive together in this sandbox game that offers endless possibilities for creativity and adventure.
   
   
5. Nintendo Switch Sports: Engage in friendly competition with sports like bowling, tennis, and volleyball (the other sports in this game lack a local 4 player option).
   
   
6. Super Mario Party Jamboree: The biggest Mario Party yet, with over 110 minigames, new online and offline modes, and plenty of customization choices.
   
   
7. 
   Super Mario Bros. Wonder: Classic Mario gameplay turned on its head with Wonder Flowers, offering game-changing items and a new adventure in the Flower Kingdom.
   
   
8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge - Anniversary Edition: Enjoy stunning full-color pixel art graphics and a vintage TMNT vibe, with new characters and modes.
   
   
9. Just Dance 2025: Get your friends and family together to dance and enjoy 40 hot new songs, whether you want to take the party to a whole new level or create special family moments.
   
   
10. The Karate Kid: Street Rumble: Step into the streets of West Valley and Okinawa, battling waves of enemies as Daniel LaRusso, Mr. Miyagi, Ali Mills, or Kumiko in this pixel art, side-scrolling, beat 'em up adventure. Intense martial arts combat and dynamic boss battles await!
    
    
11. Jitsu Squad: Fast-paced 2D brawler with intense, action-packed battles. Play as unique characters with special abilities, fighting through waves of enemies in vibrant, hand-drawn environments. Perfect for fans of classic beat 'em ups!

These games are perfect for bringing the family together for some fun and interactive entertainment.

By the way, don't forget to grab more Joy-Con controllers for 4-player fun! If you take the more affordable route, go with the officially licensed options for half the price of the first party ones or go first party that's bundled with a free game! Either way... you save! By the way, we have no idea what the next Nintendo console would be called... but that sounded like a fun name to call it!

Get Moving with Bikes

While home entertainment is great, don't forget the fun and exercise that bikes can provide. Health care professionals recommend physical exercise for its numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, and better mental well-being. Being active with your children also sets a positive example and strengthens family bonds.

Consider investing in bikes for the whole family. There are even electric mountain bikes for those who want to give their legs a break after a nice ride, ranging from $200 to $300. With options for both kids and adults, you can enjoy quality time together while staying active and healthy.

If you grab bikes, wouldn't hurt to grab a bike rack.

Active Fun for the Whole Family

Sticking to the realm of physical fun, consider gifting a tennis set, basketball goal or a volleyball net. These can provide hours of entertainment and exercise, especially if the lucky recipient actually uses them. For more affordable options, a football, baseball or soccer set is a great choice. These activities offer family fun while also improving your children's skills. It's a win-win for everyone!

Unforgettable Experiences as Gifts

When it comes to taking trips, going on cruises, enjoying spa days, savoring delicious food, or just having fun locally, these experiences are even better when received as gifts.

Whether it's a weekend getaway, a relaxing spa day, or a fun-filled local adventure, these experiences create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds (especially with good vibes on deck). Just remember, while browsing, don't get distracted by deals you'd love to get your hands on... unless it includes your family. Enjoy!

Great Family Stocking Stuffer: Dr. Plotkas Toothbrush

The family stocking stuffer is... a Dr. Plotkas Toothbrushes, because they're just that good. This has been my toothbrush of choice for years now. The family pack would allow for you to easily hook everyone up, and save their grill at the same time. We may like pirate themed entertainment, but I don't know many people who want to look like one... in the mouth.

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10 Activities to Enjoy while waiting for Disaster Relief + More!

Waiting for disaster relief can be stressful, but engaging in fun activities can help greatly pass the time and lift spirits. Here are ten activities to consider:

1. Storytelling and Sharing Experiences

Gather with others and share stories or experiences. This can be a great way to bond and support each other emotionally. Laugh as much as possible together, and express yourselves during this traumatic time so you can support eachother. You may also consider online therapy if you have phone service or internet connection after a natural disaster. Here are 8 of the best online therapy companies that therapists work through to provide online services as reviewed by Steven Gans, MD and mental health expert Katelynn Rigano. 

2. Board Games and Card Games

If you have access to board games or a deck of cards, these can provide hours of entertainment and distraction. Portable gaming is certainly an option, but if you're limited on power... it may need to wait. Create a game, toss a ball in a basket from a distance if that's all you have and have teams so that you can have some fun competition!

3. Reading

Bring along books, magazines, or e-readers. Reading can be a great way to escape and relax.

4. Crafting or Gardening

Engage in simple crafts like drawing, painting, knitting, making friendship bracelets, or gardening. These activities can be calming and productive, especially with the results being cool creations and even food!

5. Listening to Music or Podcasts

If you have a charged device, listen to your favorite music or podcasts. This can be both entertaining and soothing. Also consider drum circles while grilling outside if you don't have music!

6. Exercise and Stretching

Do some light exercises solo as a group or stretching to keep your body active and reduce stress. Simple activities like walking, yoga, or even dancing can be beneficial.

7. Playing with Pets

If you have pets with you, spend time playing and caring for them. Pets can provide comfort and companionship.

8. Cooking or Baking

If you have access to a kitchen, try cooking or baking something simple. This can be a fun and rewarding activity.

9. Meditation and Deep Breathing

Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress and anxiety. There are many guided meditation apps available if you have a smartphone and the ability to charge it.

10. Organizing and Planning

Use the time to organize your belongings or plan for the future. This can give you a sense of control and purpose. Make a list of items you could have benefitted from today, like a pocket solar charger to charge your phone. My first one was given to me by Intel, it had various charger types to work with the older cellphones back in the day (before smart phones were a thing). It came in handy on more than a few occassions.

These activities can help make the waiting period more bearable and provide some much-needed relief from stress.

To go a bit deeper beyond the activities, it's awesome that people are donating to organizations... but I also love seeing more people beginning to work with friends, family, and other members of their community based on needs. It's a beautiful alternative to simply waiting for relief, but... take precautions in disaster areas!

Make or buy a supply bag with the right supplies. Medical supplies and surival tools is what we recommend with dry food rations. In my opinion, there isn't time to order these items online but you're welcome to try. It might be better to see what you can gather at the store if your city doesn't provide certain supplies. 

Pay attention to the updates/instructions from the local & national authorities because... they may know something you don't know. It's easier to move with official clearance, but we understand when you have to do what you have to do.

Avoid floodwaters, driving through might not be a good idea because your vehicle might stall or become a boat or sink unexpectedly. Not everyone will have a life jacket or waterproof boots, so beware!

Before you stand step into a damaged home to possibly help a neighbor, you have to be cautious and make sure whatever hurt them won't hurt you. If the ceiling caved it, there's a risk that more might come down and you don't want it to come down on you. Try to inspect it to the best of your ability and if aid is on the way, don't make more work for them if it's too dangerous. I get it, but... beware and try to complete your objectives in the daytime.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by using generators, natural gas, propane, charcoal end any other potentially dangerous product safely. Follow the instructions and make sure they're at least 20 feet away from your windows, doors, and vents. Play it safe!

Watch out for electrical hazards like downed power lines. And if flooding is in an area or a home, turn off the main breaker to avoid being electrocuted. Other hazards to avoid are contaminated water. Fill your tub ahead of a hurricane if you have one, and if you have empty bottles, fill them with water. Avoid using tap water until it has been declared safe, unless you know how to properly filter water. If you're running low on water, take this gift from the Water Quality Association. It's the "Water Treatment for Dummies: Second Edition" downloadable absolutely free! There is also an article from a member of the WQA on how to filter water.

Wear the proper clothing to help with the mosquitoes and other bugs, and if you don't want to use certain repellent, peppermint oil drives bugs and pests crazy. It's really strong and they hate it.

Don't go at it alone, work with others, and let your whereabouts be known just incase. Stay safe, take care, and... game on!

 + Sophi 

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2023 Wishmas Guide... for Younglings!

 

It's that special time of year again... you're scratching your head wondering what you can get for your youngling, nieces, nephews, or a kid who simply deserves a nice gift. No need to worry ladies and gentlemen... the 2023 Wishmas Guide is here to erase the guessing games! Grab your cup of hot sip-worthy goodness... and get your click & scroll on!

Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle: This Switch bundle includes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe + 3 months of Nintendo Switch Online. This gift will provide kids with an immersive and interactive gaming experience for on-the-go enjoyment and fun on the big screen. Great option for family fun!

Coding kits: As the importance of coding grows, giving kids coding kits will help them develop their problem-solving and logical thinking skills from an early age.

Robotic pets: Robotic pets are becoming more sophisticated and lifelike. They provide companionship and are a great way for kids to learn about responsibility. This particular robot is Eilik.

 Miko 3 is also a great option.

STEM building kits: Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) building kits enable kids to learn while having fun. These kits encourage creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Smartwatches for kids: Smartwatches designed specifically for kids with GPS tracking, educational apps, and parental controls are a practical and trendy gift.

Awesome storybooks: Storybooks with great artwork and storylines make reading more engaging, and a nice collection should foster a love for reading.

Art and craft kits: Encouraging creativity and imagination through art and craft kits is a timeless gift idea. These kits provide all the necessary materials for kids to explore and create their own masterpieces. The kit seen here has a convertible easel to draw both flat or at an angle.

Educational subscription boxes: Monthly subscription boxes that deliver educational activities and experiments are a great way to keep kids engaged and learning throughout the year.

Outdoor adventure gear: A gift promoting outdoor exploration, such as camping equipment, bicycles, or scooters, encourages physical activity and helps kids appreciate nature. The Docyke Electric Go Kart Kit is a constructible vehicle that allows your kids and teens to build their vehicle of choice. Great for children interested in mechanics.

Musical instruments: Musical instruments promote a love for music and creativity. Whether it's a guitar, keyboard, or drum set, learning to play an instrument can provide lifelong enjoyment and skills.

Work desks: Desks are a worthwhile consideration this year as parents look for options to promote fun learning and exploring in the world of tech, a desk gives your Youngling the workspace to avoid their experiments from covering the surfaces in the common area. There are great Black Friday deals at the moment.

Sophima | Guest Contributor

                          + BLU 

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