Why the blog...

I confess: I'm a bit of a gadget junkie- I like functional devices that make life easier. 

I say 'a bit of" because I'm not driven to obtain the latest, greatest, fastest, most powerful, lightest, strongest, etc., etc., just for the sake of having the 'state of the art' device. While I appreciate technological advancement, I can't afford to keep up with its incredible rate and frankly wouldn't, even if I could.

Over the years, I've encountered a lot of folks who are caught-up into what I'll refer to as the "technological arms race". You know the type...Constantly buying the next new device, feeling like they'll somehow be inadequate if they don't have the elusive "state of the art" version. They're often driven to be one of the first to obtain one. (You can often find these types in the midnight queue to view the premier of the latest flick)

The competitiveness (especially amongst guys) and one-upsmanship can be intimidating for some and its usually the self-appointed "experts" that seem to be most afflicted with the 'gotta have it'  disease (GHID). Its as though the output of your flashlight or the quality of your blade steel or the number of gadgets on your multitool somehow determines your standing as a person. 

To paraphrase the late Dr. King, I would measure a person by the content of their character, not the components of their EDC kit or the contents of their tool bag.

I'm not here to beat anyone up. I firmly support the free market,  laissez faire economics and especially consumer activism. I just cannot advocate the "bleat and buy, I'm following the herd" brand of consumerism and the psychological pressure that's foisted upon folks to continually upgrade - Especially when what they already have works fine for their needs.

I don't have a "dog in this hunt", other than my opinion. I don't manufacture, distribute or sell any of the products that will be discussed here and I have no financial interest in their promotion or derision.

I just want folks to know that there are options that don't have to break their budget and that they don't have to succumb to pressure from the marketing wizards.

Your comments are welcome, so long as they're in keeping with the general spirit outlined above.