Baby, It's Cold Outside. And I Need to Send A Text.

I laughed to myself this week when I held hands with the guy I've been dating. He's a gifted hand-holder, don't get me wrong. What made me giggle was the fact that when he reached for my hand, he didn't realize that it already held my iPhone.

Instead of handing the phone to me to put in my purse - or having any noticeable reaction whatsoever - he just continued to wrap his hand around mine, and we both held my iPhone as we walked. No big deal. It was kinda as if he was saying, I like you, and your life, and holding both in my hand.

Am I a romantic? Yes.

But has technology in our lives really become that natural-seeming? I think so. These phones increasingly play a role in helping us share the happiest and most poignant moments. In fact, it would be absolutely lovely if iPhones, Blackberrys, Droids and such all came with a nice box containing chocolates and tissues.

If you live in a climate that requires gloves this time of year, however, you may find a frustrating disconnect occurs when you need to use your touch-sensitive smart phone...the technology requires direct contact with your fingers, forcing you to remove your gloves and freeze a bit in order to send a text, make a call, plan a meeting or...you get the chilly picture.

Fortunately, some really smart folks have developed a fashion-friendly solution that keeps us connected and warm no matter how the cold winds blow. My fave is the 'Touch' glove by Echo. With soft bits of metallic fabric called 'eLink' on the thumbs and forefingers, your commands are recognized through the gloves by iPhones, iPods, iPads and other touch-sensitive devices.

The Echo Touch comes in a brilliant range of styles and colors for both men and women - truly something for everyone. Happy News: they're priced from just $31 to $82, and available on Zappos.com (they currently have the biggest selection, plus free shipping and returns), Amazon and Nordstrom.com.

Superb holiday gift item, I say!

Now, you can change your relationship status on Facebook and let your hands stay as warm as your heart. Awwww.

Love,

Melinda