Trust intelliARMOR #intelliGLASS To Protect Your Shiny New Tech This Holiday Season

***I received the following product through Tomoson, in exchange for my honest opinions. All photos contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015.

Momma Told Me: This is why we don't buy nice things!

When I was about 10 I saved up for my very first GameBoy. I took out the trash, swept the patio, did the dishes, and vacuumed the house for 6 whole months, at $3 a week. In the end my grandmother contributed the rest for my birthday gift that year. The GameBoy Pocket had just been released, but I was strictly forbidden to spend money on any device so new, let alone one marketed towards children and intended to be portable. None-the-less, I remember walking out of that Game Exchange with my head held high, beaming of pride, and showing anyone within earshot my fancy new to me, used, GameBoy system.

Exactly 13 days later, and, I recall the number of days because Momma would later repeat it every time I so much as glanced at a portable gaming system for the next decade, I allowed my pride and joy to tumble from the back seat of out family's mini van face down onto the pavement below. An incident that today would seem quite harmless, but to a behemoth of a handheld like a classic GameBoy meant a cracked LCD screen and the end of a beautiful relationship.  In all $55 had been spend on that handheld gaming device, and Mommas was not about to let me forget during the remainder of my adolescence.

The original GameBoy was release with a market price the equivalent of a modern day $170- Today most new smartphone generations average over $500. I needed remind you that smartphones are used far more heavily than any portable gaming device- heck, they double as gaming devices, and GPS systems, and veritable tablets. We, as a society, are more and more attached to our smartphones every day. So, when we buy them we slap a case on it and a thin piece of plastic we call a screen protector. Unfortunately, I, personally have seen 4 Galaxy S4 or higher phone models meet their end with a shattered screen, while wearing one of these supposed screen protectors.

What are you really protecting your phone from with a plastic sheet? A replacement screen for any smartphone 2-3 generations recent runs more than $100, with installation. That's a hefty chunk to pay for a device you were likely already saving up to replace! Using a glass reinforced screen protector such as intelliARMOR intelliGLASS screen protector on your mobile device is just plain common sense.

Many people I've talked to about 'glass' screen protectors have several reservations. For starters, it's hard to talk someone into spending $20-$40 for a screen protector when they can buy a 3 pack of 'regular' protectors on Amazon for $5. intelliARMOR intelliGLASS protectors are available for devices as recent as the Samsung Galaxy S6 for just $12.95, and include a Lifetime Warranty. It's important to keep in mind that an intelliGLASS screen protector is intended to absorb scratches and harsh impacts to protect your phone's natural screen, and is not promised to be indestructible. That is to say the screen protector will 'take the fall' for your phone when it really matters- should the fall prove untimely, simply submit a warranty claim for a replacement screen protector.

The next concern I hear a lot is the ease of application. People often hear that glass based protectors can shatter or break if not installed properly, or worry that the installation process is simply too involved to do themselves. In this post I've given you a visual breakdown of the easy steps to application. Clean your hands and your work surface thoroughly to start. The intelliARMOR intelliGLASS screen protector includes a kit with everything you need for application. Use the included alcohol pad to remove any residue from previous protectors, dust, or oils. Place the 'Dirt Clean Film' on the clean screen surface and remove any finite, invisible, dust and specks.

Next, remove the backing from the intelliGLASS screen protector and position it above the screen- slowly lower it into position. Watch in amazement as the intelliGLASS binds itself to your phone, all air bubbles and pockets rushing out towards the edges as it adheres and seals. Use the included screen wipe to smooth out the intelliGLASS for good measure and admire your slick new, armored screen. Application couldn't be easier and, in my opinion, is simpler than traditional screen covers that tend to bubble and require repositioning.

If you're concerned about the intelliGLASS being too thick, I've found no disruption with multiple styles of modern smartphone cases for my Samsung Galaxy S4. In fact, let's talk a little about how it does feel- because that is the FIRST thing people notice when they pick up my phone. The screen is noticeably more responsive, thanks to the oleophobic coating which repels oils and keeps your touch gliding even and smooth. I daresay it feels as good as, or better than, my devices natural 'naked' screen. And, if you're concerned about safety, the intelliGLASS screen protectors feature a lightweight glass 'core' wrapped in a shock absorbing outer coating which prevents dangerous loose shards and pieces should the protector crack upon impact.

I've been using my new intelliGLASS screen protector for a week now- and my father has already gone through a 'cheap' imposter he got on Amazon. Don't be fooled by other protectors with 'glass' in the name, they are not all created equal. My only regret with #intelliGLASS has been that I didn't invest in one sooner- my smartphone's usage experience has been enhanced greatly by the touch and feel of this wonderful phone armor device, and I'll likely be gifting several this holiday season! Have you ever lost a phone or mobile device due to an unfortunate mishap? Save 20% on your intelliGLASS purchase now with promo code intelli20.

What Daughter Says: Protect your investment while enhancing it's experience- choose intelliARMOR for mobile devices.

One Momma Told Me reader will win an intelliARMOR product of their choice.

#intelliGLASS Not Only Protects, It Enhances Your Smartphone Experience- Giveaway

***I received the following product through Tomoson, in exchange for my honest opinions. All photos contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015.

Momma Told Me: This is why we don't buy nice things!

When I was about 10 I saved up for my very first GameBoy. I took out the trash, swept the patio, did the dishes, and vacuumed the house for 6 whole months, at $3 a week. In the end my grandmother contributed the rest for my birthday gift that year. The GameBoy Pocket had just been released, but I was strictly forbidden to spend money on any device so new, let alone one marketed towards children and intended to be portable. None-the-less, I remember walking out of that Game Exchange with my head held high, beaming of pride, and showing anyone within earshot my fancy new to me, used, GameBoy system.

Exactly 13 days later, and, I recall the number of days because Momma would later repeat it every time I so much as glanced at a portable gaming system for the next decade, I allowed my pride and joy to tumble from the back seat of out family's mini van face down onto the pavement below. An incident that today would seem quite harmless, but to a behemoth of a handheld like a classic GameBoy meant a cracked LCD screen and the end of a beautiful relationship.  In all $55 had been spend on that handheld gaming device, and Mommas was not about to let me forget during the remainder of my adolescence.

The original GameBoy was release with a market price the equivalent of a modern day $170- Today most new smartphone generations average over $500. I needed remind you that smartphones are used far more heavily than any portable gaming device- heck, they double as gaming devices, and GPS systems, and veritable tablets. We, as a society, are more and more attached to our smartphones every day. So, when we buy them we slap a case on it and a thin piece of plastic we call a screen protector. Unfortunately, I, personally have seen 4 Galaxy S4 or higher phone models meet their end with a shattered screen, while wearing one of these supposed screen protectors.

What are you really protecting your phone from with a plastic sheet? A replacement screen for any smartphone 2-3 generations recent runs more than $100, with installation. That's a hefty chunk to pay for a device you were likely already saving up to replace! Using a glass reinforced screen protector such as intelliARMOR intelliGLASS screen protector on your mobile device is just plain common sense.

Many people I've talked to about 'glass' screen protectors have several reservations. For starters, it's hard to talk someone into spending $20-$40 for a screen protector when they can buy a 3 pack of 'regular' protectors on Amazon for $5. intelliARMOR intelliGLASS protectors are available for devices as recent as the Samsung Galaxy S6 for just $12.95, and include a Lifetime Warranty. It's important to keep in mind that an intelliGLASS screen protector is intended to absorb scratches and harsh impacts to protect your phone's natural screen, and is not promised to be indestructible. That is to say the screen protector will 'take the fall' for your phone when it really matters- should the fall prove untimely, simply submit a warranty claim for a replacement screen protector.

The next concern I hear a lot is the ease of application. People often hear that glass based protectors can shatter or break if not installed properly, or worry that the installation process is simply too involved to do themselves. In this post I've given you a visual breakdown of the easy steps to application. Clean your hands and your work surface thoroughly to start. The intelliARMOR intelliGLASS screen protector includes a kit with everything you need for application. Use the included alcohol pad to remove any residue from previous protectors, dust, or oils. Place the 'Dirt Clean Film' on the clean screen surface and remove any finite, invisible, dust and specks.

Next, remove the backing from the intelliGLASS screen protector and position it above the screen- slowly lower it into position. Watch in amazement as the intelliGLASS binds itself to your phone, all air bubbles and pockets rushing out towards the edges as it adheres and seals. Use the included screen wipe to smooth out the intelliGLASS for good measure and admire your slick new, armored screen. Application couldn't be easier and, in my opinion, is simpler than traditional screen covers that tend to bubble and require repositioning.

If you're concerned about the intelliGLASS being too thick, I've found no disruption with multiple styles of modern smartphone cases for my Samsung Galaxy S4. In fact, let's talk a little about how it does feel- because that is the FIRST thing people notice when they pick up my phone. The screen is noticeably more responsive, thanks to the oleophobic coating which repels oils and keeps your touch gliding even and smooth. I daresay it feels as good as, or better than, my devices natural 'naked' screen. And, if you're concerned about safety, the intelliGLASS screen protectors feature a lightweight glass 'core' wrapped in a shock absorbing outer coating which prevents dangerous loose shards and pieces should the protector crack upon impact.

I've been using my new intelliGLASS screen protector for a few weeks now- and my father has already gone through a 'cheap' imposter he got on Amazon. Don't be fooled by other protectors with 'glass' in the name, they are not all created equal. My only regret with #intelliGLASS has been that I didn't invest in one sooner- my smartphone's usage experience has been enhanced greatly by the touch and feel of this wonderful phone armor device, and I'll likely be gifting several this holiday season! Have you ever lost a phone or mobile device due to an unfortunate mishap?

What Daughter Says: Protect your investment while enhancing it's experience- choose intelliARMOR for mobile devices.

One Momma Told Me reader will win an intelliARMOR product of their choice.

Staying Fueled On The Go With The Lifeguard MINI 1 Portable Charger

***The following product was provided by the manufacturer, through Tomoson. Regardless all photos and opinions below are original and copyright Momma Told Me 2015.

Momma Told Me: Save your battery!


Last week I shared my anxiety over having my phone die while traveling home, through Log Angeles at night. While it's not ideal, I do experience quite a bit of stress when I am disconnected from my mobile tools during the workday. In that post I shared several tips for extending the battery life of your smartphone, from decreasing screen brightness an manually closing unused apps to backup batteries and charging methods. While there was no such thing as a smartphone, or even a cell phone, when Momma was raising me, modern portable technology has become a necessity for the mainstream consumer.

I remember, as a teenager, mobile phones were a convenient way for people to stay connected in emergencies, and while on the go, away from business. to 'text' someone you simply had to enter about 54 keystrokes for a basic 7 word sentence- or 2,2,2- 2- 5,5,5- 5,5,5-_6- 3,3 for 'Call Me.' It's amazing what we would go through to communicate a single message when the technology was new,  while today we exhibit impatience over the 10 second loading time of a single application. And, seeing as I can actually type faster on my smartphone than my PC, it is certainly a tool that has proven itself invaluable in modern times. After all, the present day smartphone combines all the innovations of the past decade into one portable device!

Just as a smartphone or mobile device can make life easier, the lack of having one charged and ready can be disastrous, as our own dependency on it grows. Will you be caught without battery to phone a taxi because you played too much Candy Crush? Have you ever needed to inform someone you'd be late but found your phone died while it was ringing? Yes, our smartphones are amazing, convenient, devices but we use them for so much, and so often, that they can often be taxed when we need them most. And that's precisely what makes a portable charger, such as the Lifeguard MINI 1 invaluable.

I keep a portable smartphone charger in my purse, my glove compartment, my gym bag, and even kitchen junk drawer (you never know when the power will go out and you will depend on that smartphone for updates and communication!) While many of us smartphone owners have a portable or backup charger, it truly is a tool you should own multiple of, and the perfect gift for any tech savvy consumer. I was personally attracted to the Lifeguard MINI 1 for it's vibrant color option, which included a HOT PINK hue that I could easily locate at the bottom of my purse in a bind. Not only is it stylish and stable to use with it's flat sides, but the MINI 1 Portable Charger features a Samsung battery core with 3000mAh capacity.

The MINI 1 features a Quick Charge output that can fully restore most modern smartphone batteries from empty in as little as 1.5- 2 hours, and will withstand over 800 recharges through the life of the device. It's backed by an 18-month money-back guarantee, and currently is featured online for less than $25, shipped with Prime 2-Day shipping, and a limited time bonus 3' Lightening Charging Cable for Apple 'i' devices. If you're like me and still an Android user at heart, no worries, the MINI 1 comes standard with both an Android and Apple charging cable. How do you keep your smartphone charged for when you need it most?

What Daughter Says: Even careful users can end up disconnected when it matters- secure your smartphone with a mobile charger.

Take Selfies With Ease- #SoloStick Pro Gold Photography Secret Giveaway

***I received the following product in exchange for my honest thoughts. All photos and opinions contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015.

Momma Told Me: You can't live behind that camera!

As a blogger I firmly believe that  take the best photos of myself. If I had a dollar for every time Jay and I have gotten into a row over photos for a 'fashion post' photo shoot I'd have that Cannon T5i that's been on my wish list for so long! You seem I've probably taken more photos of myself than those taken of me, by everyone I've known my entire life, combined. I've learned every selfie Smartphone angle, how to strap my DSLR around my neck so I can auto-snap photos of my hands in a step-by-step recipe, and even the exact timer rotation on my point and shoot. They don't teach classes in that, folks- those are Blogger street smarts, and they're skills I think we shouldn't have to acquire.

When I was a little girl I clearly remember inheriting my father's first Polaroid camera and thinking it was just pure magic. Not only did the 'shake' developing dance prove a fun way to pass time, but I was also convinced the rhythm in which I shook that photo would have a direct impact on the quality of that photo. On one specific occasion I recall receiving a new Barbie for my birthday and running upstairs to pair her with the Ken doll I'd had for months. Unfortunately Barbie's perfect proportions proved less than perfectly practical and I couldn't pose the duo in front of their new abode (my dollhouse) without holding her up. I very clearly remember going downstairs into the hall closet and retrieving a broom which I used to press the shutter trigger on my Polaroid, while it balanced on my toy trunk some 4 feet away. Shot achieved!

Today, capturing that inspiration, moment, or memory is easier than ever with cameras in nearly every mobile device, and a virtually unlimited roll of digital film. But I can't very well place my $500 phone in a tree and 'hope' to catch that shot in the hill before I lose my balance, or it tumbles down. So the #SoloStick is here to provide an immediate solution to taking photos  of just about anything, with you in the photo. No more snapshots of friends at conferences with you behind the lens, and more more painfully close close-ups at arm's length. Made of an incredibly lightweight aluminum reinforced base, the Solo Selfie Stick extends from 11" to 36" and is compatible with most point and shoot cameras as well as modern Smartphone and Tablet devices.

With an adjustable rubberized phone mount, the Solo Stick can accommodate devices as large as the iPhone 6 and Galaxy Note 4, though your wrist may need some training to stabilize larger/heavier devices when extended to full length. I used my Solo Stick Pro Gold with my Samsung Galaxy S3 and noticed the same part which secured the cell phone mount adapter had to be securely locked to stabilize the phone, otherwise the weight would un-thread the base and my phone would rotate in use. I also notices, for my specific phone, that the extra wide/long cell phone mount seemed to be positioned so it hit my phone's On/Off buttons if I wasn't paying attention. My phone rebooted 3 times during this photoshoot, and moving the mount's grip away from the buttons threw off the weight balance of the phone at the end of the Solo Stick.

All this aside, a selfie stick is definitely something any blogger should have in their bag of tricks, and any none blogger should have just for vacations, gatherings, and general photography fun. You can truly capture some fun angles, and are sure to have a blast learning how to angle the stick to get that flawless selfie. In the collage above the far Right photo was taken with my forward facing 5 MP camera, and the two to the Left were taken with my phone's main 14 MP camera. In addition, to give you an idea of the quality of images you can capture with your Smartphone and the Solo Stick Pro, the 2 photos directly above and below were captured with my smartphone's main 14 MP camera.

So how do I get my smartphone to take photos at the end of a Solo Stick? Also sold by the same company is an absolute must have for anyone photographing with a Bluetooth device, the Solo Stick Shutter device, compatible with any ios or Android device. For less than $10 you can turn your phone into a hands free (or Solo Stick compatible) camera with a range of up to 30 feet! Together, these two products rock my socks with a whole new world of photo-journalistic opportunities. I can't wait to share what I capture next! How would you use your Solo Stick first?

What Daughter Says: Getting in front of the lens is easier than ever with a great selfie stick and shutter remote.

One Momma Told Me reader will win a Solo Stick Pro Gold.