Back to School: Not Just for Kids

Everything old is new, and it’s time to again embrace the ’80s with Urbanears: Tanto Headphones, the retro headphones that you don’t have to stick in your ears. These little pieces of technology instead feature custom microphones and remote compatibility with the iPhone and Nokia, HTC, and Blackberry phones, as well as two extra cable extensions. Available in fourteen colors at karmaloop.com, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, and more. $39.99. urbanears.com

It’s hard to get up for school, but the Moshi Voice Control (VC) Digital Clock Radio makes it easier. It’s the alarm clock you can talk to, not talk back to. No programming, no buttons. It responds to twelve voice-activated commands and features high-quality stereo sound, six station presets, three alarm and three sleep sounds, and AUX-IN to play any MP3 player (like an iPod). Available at moshilifestyle.com, target.com, and amazon.com for $69.99.

Locker or no locker, it’s tough to survive school without a backpack, and we all know how we’re supposed to make our backpacks a reflection of our individuality. The booq: Mamba shift L is a lightweight, functional backpack with internal and exterior water-repellent coating, accessible pockets, and a roomy interior. Available at booqbags.com and various retailers for $149.95.

With the latest Twilight installment racking up its customary megabucks, the merchandise is as hot as ever. The Twilight Cullen Family Crest USB Drive is a fully-sculpted 3D USB 2.0 drive and features the entire New Moon soundtrack. Various storage capacities available. 4GB $34.99, 8GB $44.99, and 16GB $59.99 at tymemachines.com.

Take advantage of the sun’s power when it comes to your new iPhone. The Solar Surge by Novothink is the world’s only Apple-certified solar charger carrying case that doubles battery life of the iPhone. It automatically sends a charge when needed and when there is sufficient power reserved. $79.95 at novothink.com

Posture in Style’s ergonomic chair is the perfect piece of furniture for your kids who are weighed down with homework. Bad posture is a big problem today, and this chair is designed to help children sit properly. Posture in Style is fully adjustable to accommodate children from preschool to high school. It features 100 percent synthetic fibers in removable and washable seat and back covers. Priced around the mid $700s. (877) 609-5688 or postureinstyle.com

Who says the kids are the only ones in need of back-to-school goodies? For you parents, it’s back to a dozen trips to and from school, extracurriculars, and friends’ homes every week; packing lunches and making dinner; and helping with homework. And after all the actual back-to-school clothes and school-supply shopping you’ll be conducting, it’s time for a little respite. That’s where a romantic, kids-free dinner out comes into play. Ocean Prime serves up a savory selection of steaks, fish, and cocktails that will have you relaxing in no time. (480) 347-1313 or ocean-prime.com

It’s back to school for the teachers, too, and one way to work off the stress of a new school year is to—yes—exercise. But exercising can be fun, and one Anthem gym provides the perfect environment for shedding pounds, staying in shape, and working off stress. Check out Sweat and all it has to offer at sweatchallenge.com.