Yes, critics of the sometimes disposable nature of today's tech world, it's come to this. You can now eat your iPhone case. The price of a crunchy treat that also (theoretically) protects your most precious of mobile gadgets? $81.

TECH-SMS-Text-Message-20

It's been hailed for its succinctness and blamed for everything from sore thumbs to the decline of conversation. Love it or hate it, the text message is 20 years old.

TECH-Bright-Eyes-Coding-Glasses

The "shutter shades" most recently popularized by fashion-conscious rapper Kanye West are in the midst of a transformation from flash-in-the-pan style accessory to a clever technological learning aid that its makers hope will encourage more people to learn the art of computer coding.

TECH-New-Orleans-Startups

When Kenneth Purcell emerged from his New Orleans home after Hurricane Isaac churned through the city in August, he couldn't believe what he saw. Nearly all of his neighbors had poured out into the streets to help each other clean up.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL-Cuba-Tourism (with art)

Louis and Bonnie Waterer are spending their retirement filling up their passports, one stamp at a time. "There are a bunch of people who are trying to visit 100 countries before they die," Louis explained. "This is number 92 for us." Country No. 92 for the Waterers is Cuba.

TRAVEL-5-Real-Life-Wonderlands

With presents to buy and families to visit, the holiday season can become an endless to-do list. But take some of that vacation time to explore the holiday spirit in action. At these five wonderlands around the country and the world, you'll find the wonder of winter, the wonder of shopping and the wonder of Santa Claus up close.

TRAVEL-Istanbul-Turkish-Sweets (with art)

Grandeur defines Istanbul: From architectural icons such as Hagia Sophia to the city's indomitable traffic, Istanbul pulsates with intensity and splendor. Including sweet splendor. Istanbul's passion for pastries and its history of inventing some of the world's most delightful desserts tempts visitors and residents to skip dinner and head straight for the meal's concluding course.

TRAVEL-Lonely-Planet-Top-US-Destinations

Top U.S. travel destinations for 2013.

TRAVEL-Disney-New-Fantasyland (with art)

Disney brings more oomph with New Fantasyland.

LIVING

FEA-Baby-Boomer-Friendship

A small group of salt-and-pepper haired women who live outside Jackson, Mississippi, meet every other Tuesday at the local antique store for their M.E.N.S.A. gathering. The Most Exclusive National Shopping Association has met consistently for the past three years, but some of its members have been close for more than 50.

FEA-Baby-Boomers-Second-Families

Boomers who remarry learn from failed relationships.

FEA-Food-Photography

Although I have been in love with photography since I was 12, my first serious relationship with the subject began as a wide-eyed intern in New York City. A well-regarded food photographer took me under his wing and taught me all aspects of the craft, starting with a respect for the food that nourishes us. For me, the key to good food photography is that whatever you are shooting needs to looks fresh from the kitchen. Not all food is inherently beautiful - a rack of ribs, for example - but if it appears fresh and hot out of the smoker, it will look appetizing.