Information Overload

Technology is everywhere and our options are endless. It is possible to enjoy the benefits of technology without spending a lot of money. When you see an interesting electronic product or fun gadget, you may want to take time to think about how necessary that item would be in your daily life.

Cell Phones

Some current cell phone plans offer extras like texting, ringtones, games, video and camera capability.

These extras can be enjoyable, but ask yourself if you really need them. Texting, ringtones, and games can add up to $10 per month or more to your phone bill according to Womansday.com.

Consider choosing a plan that fits your basic needs. Woman's Day also suggests looking for free games and ringtones on the Internet. Websites such as Phonezoo.com and Myxer.com might be a good place to start.

If you already have an iPhone, you may have access to free software that will help you manage your budget and save money. According to The Wall Street Journal, Yowza!! combines a Global Positioning System (GPS) with coupons for nearby retailers.

If you need a cell phone but don't want to sign a lengthy contract with one service provider, prepaid cell phones might be an option.

Free Software Ideas

Here are a just a few other software suggestions from PCMag.com. The site releases a yearly review of over 100 free software options which may be worth your time to check out.


Open Office (www.OpenOffice.org) includes a word processing and spreadsheet software, HTML document generation and PDF document generation.

Google Docs (docs.google.com) offers free browser-based document and spreadsheet software.

Gimp (www.gimp.org) is an Image Manipulation Program featuring photo retouching, image composition and image authoring capabilities.

Know Your Stuff (www.knowyourstuff.org) is an online site where you can inventory everything you own. You can even include digital photos of your possessions or scanned purchase receipts.

Geni (www.Geni.com) allows genealogists to plug in their family tree. This web application makes it easy for everyone in the family to view information and share stories, photos and facts of their own.

Office Web, a free version of Microsoft Office suite, will include the Office word processing application, Excel spreadsheet, PowerPoint presentation software and OneNote message pad when it becomes available soon.