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In the midst of driving across the dessert for some much-needed R&R, splashing around in mud playgrounds, and searching for venomous Arachnids, we’ve actually spent quite a bit of time lounging, swimming, and cooking together as a family. After a busy school year filled with several extra-curricular activities, we needed the downtime to revitalize us for the coming season. As a busy, work-at-home mom, I often find myself multi-tasking, and if it weren’t for technology, I wouldn’t be half as productive as I am.
Last Fall, I introduced you to Intel’s innovative new All-In-One PCs. Lightweight and portable, these PCs offer all of the functionality of a home computer without taking up precious desk space. I haven’t used a desktop computer in years, mostly due to the fact that I rarely work in the same place. But for those who thrive in a more formal work environment, Lenovo’s Flex 20 All-In-One PC features an adjustable screen that lies completely flat for use as a tablet, or upright (and every angle in between) for use as a desktop computer. But beyond just the appearance of this AIO device, the Flex 20 has all of the functionality of a PC with the capabilities (i.e. apps) of a tablet.
The first thing you’ll notice about this AIO device is its design. Weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, you can tote this device all over your home. The monitor is thin but fairly large and features a 19.5″ HD touch display. Included with the Flex 20 is a keyboard, a mouse, and a stand so that when set up, it functions like a desktop computer. What I personally love about this AIO device is that it has a battery life comparable to my laptop (approximately 2 hours) and I can unplug it and use it from anywhere in my home. It should be noted that an AIO device is not a laptop so the ability to travel with it might be difficult, particularly due to the width of the monitor.
One of the unique features of AIO devices is their ability to bring people together. The activity I envision this being used most for is family gaming and entertainment. Uniquely outfitted with Aura, family members can tap and swipe the screen to access their favorite apps and multimedia content when the screen is laid flat. Lenovo also offers three optional gaming accessories including a joystick, striker, and e-dice, further confirming this AIO device’s use as a social platform. In addition to having access to all of the Windows 8 apps, Lenovo offers a handful of exclusive games and apps via the Lenovo App Store.
This summer, we’ve tried to spend as much time outside as possible and have done everything from camping in our backyard to grilling and picnicking on the beach. Because I often find myself perusing the internet for inspiration, I found the portability and touchscreen to be a seamless way to search from my kitchen or my backyard. I downloaded several “foodie” apps including Everyday Food, Epicurious, and So Cookbook (Windows 8 offers a generous selection) so I can quickly access recipes while prepping meals and streaming music. Since I am always looking for the best apps to glean cooking and baking inspiration, here are my top 5 Windows 8 Apps for Foodies.
Everyday Food: If you’re like me, you might find yourself resorting to the same handful of dishes daily. This is the app you need for everyday meals, allowing you to search for recipes by main ingredient, course, occasion, and prep time. Unique to this app are the integrated “Watch & Learn” technique videos and daily recipe videos from editor-in-chief Sarah Carey which help you hone your cooking skills while saving time in the kitchen.
Epicurious: This is hands-down my favorite recipe app/site and the very first source I go to when looking for any type of recipe. Featuring more than 30,000 tested and member-rated recipes, you’ll find inspiration in a variety of fun, unique categories like Kid-Friendly Mains, Stir-Fry Suppers, and Chocolate Desserts. Recipes are sourced from gourmet sites and magazines like Bon Appétit and can be organized in your own personal recipe box. And perhaps the best feature is the voice-activated commands that allow you to keep your hands where they need to be…on the food!
So Cookbook: This is a beautifully-designed app that offers a very expansive selection of recipes (350,000 to be exact!). With recipes from sources like BigOven, Larousse, and aufeminin, this is the app for foodies! I personally like the app’s stage-by-stage feature which helps you know exactly where you are during the cooking/baking process. Once you’ve found your favorite, save them in your personal recipe book and you’ll begin receiving daily suggestions for new recipes to try out.
Pepperplate: Deemed for “serious cooks,” this is the app you’ll need to help you cook weeknight dinners or host dinner parties. I absolutely love the meal planning and shopping list features since ironically these two tasks take up quite a bit of my time. Not only can you browse the apps recipe repertoire, you can edit them (I have a friend who is constantly making notes and edits by hand in her cookbook based on her experience preparing dishes) and then organize your recipes to share or take with you to the grocery store.
Allrecipes: This is my go-to site for staple recipes like blueberry muffins and lasagna! With over 50,000 recipes, choosing the best one can be a challenge. Thankfully, each one is rated and includes a photo, nutrition information, reviews. Search by ingredient, dish type and dietary preference to find the perfect recipe for any occasion. Once you’ve found your favorites, add them to your Recipe Box to email, print, or share with friends.
Do you love to cook? What are your favorite recipe sites and apps?
And stay tuned for more fun, innovative ways we’re using our Intel AIO!
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