My "iPad Love" series was so popular last year that I decided to keep it going in 2012. I regularly receive e-mails asking for iPad advice (and a number of you received iPads as holiday gifts this year), so here are my Top 5 Accessories:
1. A good case. I have bought a couple of cases for my iPad, but the one pictured above is my hands-down favorite. It props my iPad up, so I can watch TV while doing dishes, it has a great snap closure and it protects my iPad everytime one of my kids drops it. Most importantly, it is so stinkin' cute that I get compliments on it everywhere I go. AND it was cheaper than anything I found at Best Buy or Target. Unfortunately, it is no longer available through Amazon, however, I did find similar cases for iPad 1 and iPad 2.
If you prefer a keyboard case, my hubby has been tremendously happy with this:
It pretty much turns his iPad into a laptop. The hard case works well for heavy use (and it really protects it from little hands). It allows you to do heavy typing without having to deal with the touch screen. You can find it here at half the price we paid for it! If you do a lot of travelling, you will probably find this case to be too bulky, but it is perfect for home use.
2. A 5-in1 Card Reader. Want to see your digital images on the large iPad screen, instead of the little screen on the back of your camera? Just use this handy 5-in-1 card reader. Insert your camera's SD card (it also accepts other formats) into the reader and you can see all of your images in larger format. I wish I had this when we went to Disney World with the kids a couple of months ago. Hubby just received one for Christmas this year and I'm sure it will see plenty of use.
3. A stylus pen. My mom complains that she struggles with touch screens because of her fingernails. Here's the solution: a handy dandy stylus pen that allows you to type accurately and comfortably. If you're going to get one, why not make it pretty? You can find them in pink, red, green and so many more colors!
4. PQ DVD Software. Want to watch your favorite DVD on your iPad? This $40 software will let you convert your DVDs to iPad-playable files. I found it worth the money because I was able to combine the DVDs I don't have time to watch with my boredom on the gym treadmill! Look at me! I'm speed walking to "The Good Wife" on my iPad!
5. A Cookbook Stand. I know I said that my iPad case has it's own stand, allowing me to prop it up to watch TV, surf, etc. However, I use my iPad regularly in the kitchen. I share this kitchen with two little people and an oblivious man. It is so much easier to protect my iPad from spilled drinks and kitchen messes by putting it up on a cookbook stand I already had. It is a good two inches off the counter and I have peace of mind when my youngest insists on drinking out of a non-sippy cup.
I'll be back next month with my new Top 5 Favorite Apps!
