Baseball may seem like a maze of statistics and numbers, but one tradition remains a mystery — the hand signals a third base coach uses to indicate a steal. Imagine if a simple app could predict the runner’s next move. That’s exactly what one computer engineer tried to do.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and lots of love from me
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Christmas Day is a time for reflection, gratitude and connection. This year, it’s extra special as Hanukkah also begins tonight. Both holidays remind us of the importance of light, hope and the traditions that bring us closer together.
When I was a kid, the magic of Christmas came in the form of glowing string lights on a fresh-cut tree, the scent of my Mom’s cooking and my Dad’s laugh as we opened gifts. Those memories of warmth and love are what I carry with me every year, and it’s what I hope for each of you to experience today.
As we celebrate this season, I want to take a moment to thank all those who work tirelessly to make the holidays brighter: Health care workers, first responders, retail staff, delivery drivers and everyone else working behind the scenes to bring a little joy to our lives.
Let’s not forget the thousands in law enforcement and national security protecting us; the firefighters and medical professionals on call today; and the pilots, flight attendants and air traffic controllers reuniting families. And, of course, the men and women of America’s military, who serve to ensure our freedom.
I want to give you a special thanks, too
I’m thrilled you’re here with me day in and day out. I love reading your comments that say, “Wow, Kim, it feels like you’re talking to me in this newsletter.” Yes, it’s real, human Kim here gathering what you need to know in the world of tech and writing it for you.
That’s especially important now that AI is everywhere. I want this email and the info I pass along on my shows, podcasts and writings in USA Today, the Daily Mail and other places to be something you can trust.
Some of my Christmas traditions
Below, I put links to the recipe for my annual Christmas dinner, movies and lots more. But I want to reach out to you if you’re not having a great day.
Years ago, my Dad was a little depressed and missing his mother terribly one Christmas. My Mom thought a quick trip to Las Vegas would get him out of the slump. I gave him a Mannheim Steamroller Christmas CD to listen to on their drive. When they returned, my Mom had a huge smile on her face and said, “Wow! That CD is wonderful! It totally turned his frown upside‑down!”
I shared this story with Chip Davis, the founder of Mannheim Steamroller. He explained he did that on purpose with the tempo so people would have an emotional lift. If you’re a little down, here’s a YouTube playlist. When I miss my loved ones, it helps me, too.
In this season of hope and joy, whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah or simply enjoying time with loved ones, I’m keeping you in my prayers. I pray for your health, happiness, and that you find peace and comfort in the moments that matter most.
7 simple science tricks for an UNBEATABLE pinewood derby car
If you were ever in the Boy Scouts, you’re intimately familiar with the longstanding tradition of racing pinewood derby cars. You probably have heard your fair share of weird tricks and strategies. But this dad uses physics to put the myths to bed once and for all. His 45-minute job destroys the competition!