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Life made easier and more fun: There’s an app for that
Beth Engelman of Glenview uses the iPad app Artkive which allows users to take photos of their child's art and save it online or print out the images in books or on mugs. | Ryan Pagelow~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: November 2, 2012 9:30AM
Stress less and have more fun with these “mom-approved” apps designed to make your life easier, simpler and hassle-free.
ArtKive
The perfect antidote for parents who can’t seem to throw anything away, Artkive is designed to digitally store all your kids’ artwork in one location. Simply download the app, fill in some information and start snapping pictures of your kids’ art. The app automatically stores and dates each piece of art and includes an area for comments or titles. It can also turn your favorite pieces into a book, mug or memorable keepsake making it a “must-have” app for the holiday season.
MailStop
www.catalogchoice.org/mailstop/mobile
Unclutter your mailbox with MailStop, the easy to use app that gets rid of most junk mail. First, gather catalogs, coupons, credit card offers and other pieces of unwanted junk mail. Then, take a picture of each mailing label (which will include your customer name, number and source code) and MailStop will take care of the rest. In other words, you supply MailStop with the information they need to get you removed from ubiquitous mailing lists. MailStop also has an online component where you can opt out of brand-specific catalogs, coupons and phone books. Your mailbox will thank you.
Cozi Family Organizer
Designed with the busy family in mind, this app centralizes your calendar, shopping list, schedule and more, while also allowing family members to access it online. It’s the perfect tool for divorced parents who can now share a mutual calendar for their kids’ activities, homework assignments and social events. It’s also helpful for families with aging parents because it allows siblings to keep track of their parents’ medical needs, appointments and activities. The online grocery list is a real timesaver for busy parents who can access it every time they find themselves near a grocery store. That’s right, with Cozi, “bring home some milk” phone calls may become obsolete. In addition to the Cozi Family Organizer, the company has recently rolled out a number of new family friendly apps that include helping parents find babysitters, recover stored passwords and locate their children via GPS.
Goby
Next time you’re looking for something to do, check out Goby. This app is a search engine that aggregates fun things to do and interesting places to see around the country. It covers everything from live music and family fun activities to outdoor adventures and off the beaten track attractions. It’s great for planning last minute activities as well as special outings with friends. It’s also a must-have app when planning road trips and visits to new cities.
More apps to love
We asked Facebook friends to share with us their must-have apps for busy families. Here’s a list of some of their top picks:
Flashlight
appsfromouterspace.com/flashlight/
Checkbook HD
Coupon Sherpa
Slice
Shazam
Honk Find Your Car
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