I read and listen with a chuckle when people talk about the price of apps for their smart phones and portable devices. Some of us have come through an age when basic utility software for computing devices cost in the hundreds of dollars. I smile broadly when people talk about the cost of a SparkPeople app that provides you will months of feedback, and constantly updated food lists (via SparkPeople members) -- all for one priee (as long as you have some form of Internet connectivity - WiFi, cellular data -- for the portable device). I really don't understand the uproar. Just because some people provide the information for free, doesn't mean that a person shouldn't support a vendor who updates and maintains an app that represents the organization and structure of SparkPeople.

I guess I just don't get it. But I did buy the new iPhone (also works on iPod, iPad) SparkPeople app that includes SparkPoints. If the SparkPeople tools are easily available when I need the motivation, then so what if I had to pay for the app. I gladly donate to local causes -- I should feel happy to donate to the cause of ME, to the effort to keep myself motivated in a world that exposes us in multiple, misguided suggestions away from moderation. I choose to strive for a balanced lifestyle, and the SparkPeople app (with SparkPoints) is one part of maintaining those daily choices.