The Internet can either streamline your life or fritter it away. Here are 14 websites that we’ve bookmarked on our own computers because they’re so useful. Sorry, but there’s not a Solitaire in the bunch.
Topix.com: The ultimate way to stay on top of gossip in your community. Type in your town, and the site scans 50,000 news sources for what’s going on.
Dinnertool.com: If meal planning isn’t your forte, this site is your salvation. It helps plan a week’s worth of meals and even generates the shopping list along with coupons. But no, you still have to cook it.
Eatwellguide.com: To find local sources of healthful food, type in your zip code and the site delivers a list of farms, markets, health stores, restaurants, and even educational centers. Just like that, you’re tapped into the local organic community.
Freetranslation.com: Did the neighbor lady just call you exitosa? Then you better head here to find out if it was a compliment or a curse.
Rentometer.com: Considering a new apartment or think you’re paying too much for your current one? Enter some basic info about it, and this site will tell you if it’s overpriced, on target, or a deal.
Trulia.com: This real estate site will tell you just about everything you need to know about whatever town you’re considering moving to (or the one you’re currently in): community info, property prices, crime rates, etc.
Indeed.com: Finding a job is as easy as typing in your field of expertise and your zip code, then hitting the search button.
Whatshouldireadnext.com: Enter the title of the latest, greatest book or author you just read, and it’ll make suggestions for other similar reads you might like.
Mypunchbowl.com: With the holiday season coming up, you’re probably dreading organizing parties. No need. This site will poll guests for the best date, send a save-the-date e-mail once it’s set (then a full invite), and even provide an after-party message board for photos and video.
Cozi.com: It’s a free online organizer that helps busy families manage all the things they do—with schedules, chore lists, shopping lists, and more. Each family member has a distinct color code on the calendar.
Stumbleupon.com: Sign up and choose your favorite topic areas, then rate random websites as the search engine gets to know you. The more you “stumble,” the more customized the technology becomes. Soon you’ll be uncovering sites you’d never have chanced upon. A cool alternative to Google.
Upcoming.yahoo.com: Just scored a babysitter for Saturday night? Instead of doing the same old same old, check here to see the entertainment possibilities in your neighborhood.
Slickdeals.net: Every day this website lists the best deals on the web. From closeouts at your favorite online stores to free burritos at your local Baja Fresh.
Decadent (yet smart!) desserts
