This is not really a tutorial, but it will guide you to cute themes and handy tools from Google.

Gmail

If you aren’t using Gmail yet, feel free to contact me and I’ll send you an invite.

For about a year it’s possible to use a theme for Gmail. On the top right you’ll find a link called “settings”, click on it and select the themes tab. Now you can choose the theme that you like most. The one I’m using at the moment is called Candy and made by the great folks from Meomi. They’re also responsible for the Ninja theme.

If you would like to enhance your Gmail, the lab is the way to go. Just click on the green bottle icon in the top-menu, this will take you there. Personally I prefer the Superstar option and Custom Label Colors. Both will help you to organize your e-mails.

Last but not least, take some time to apply filters and labels to your e-mail. In Gmail labels can be compared to folders. When you apply a label (for instance “kao-ani”) to an e-mail and archive it, this e-mailed will be stored under the label kao-ani on the side:

Filters can be applied in the settings menu or by selecting an e-mail and use the “more actions” button. You can easily mark certain mails as spam or apply labels this way. Also it’s possible to automatically delete or archive messages with a certain subject. This will help you to keep your inbox clean

iGoogle

iGoogle is a personal Google page. You can add your favourite links, gmail preview, web feeds and other items to it. Because it’s online you can access the page on every computer.

The gadgets that I mostly use are Gmail preview, Google bookmarks -to easily access my favourite websites- and the Sticky Note. If you easily forget things (like me), the Sticky Note is a must-have If you’re a to-do-list person Remember the Milk might help you out. I like to place my assignments in it, to check them off once they’re completed. Somehow that feels rewarding.

iGoogle also support themes which usually change appearance during day. I can recommend these themes:

• Aja Tiger - follow the Aja Tiger through the day and the seasons.
• Animal Crossing - as seasons change and new friends come and go.
• Autumn - it’s fall, and the racoons are enjoying every bit of it.
• Spring Scape - the frog and the ladybug are enjoying springtime in this outdoor theme.
• Paul Frank - bright color palette and whimsical designs from the Paul Frank company.