For those other echo owners, I would like to share a couple of things that might be applicable. I purchased an device called Anymote Home, and after many trials and tribulations with lots of help from the company (a big part of the problem was that I have a Samsung galaxy S4 which has an unusual IR blaster) I can now operate my top box and my TV by voice. Just in time for the Olympics so I don't have to sit through all the commercials!!
I also read about an app called Iris that will e-mail a contact for you in case of emergency. It is under the skills part of Alexa. I wanted a holder for my Echo that would keep it away from the wall as is recommended, and decided to go looking for a hurricane lamp type holder. We found a wrought iron hanging LED hurricane lamp for $7.00 at Big Lots. Removed a couple of screws, broke that glass and Alexa fits perfectly, then I got a decorative plant hanger for $3.00 and it now hangs above my head when I'm in bed so I don't have to raise my voice during the night. Now I'm on the hunt for more things that it can do for me, although I do enjoy the music, using it as a whole house system is what appeals to me. I also use Alexa to set appointment dates in my calendar. It is very convenient to be able to verbally put down my appointments and goings on. However, she does not always understand me correctly. The other day I told her to add an event to calendar, Advanced Insect Identification for master gardeners. A couple of days later I am looking at my Google calendar and see that she has written Advanced Anal Sex Identification For Master Gardeners!!! Whoops. Hopefully no one else who shares my calendar is wondering what I am getting up to in my old age. Have a great day every one, I plan on it. Joan
