I heart my iPod.

There, I’ve said it. It’s love. And it’s real.

Sure, I’m a little late to the game. And no, I can’t move like those groovy dancers in the commercials, regardless of whether or not Shakira is on my playlist. But owning an iPod has completely changed my life for the better.

The last time I felt this excited about audio equipment was when I got my first boombox. I had enormous hair and a full complement of acid-washed jeans at the time.

This time around, things are far more streamlined. One day, not so long ago, I arrived home to find a small, comics page-wrapped package on my pillow. ShopGuy had splurged on a black Nano. (I heart him, too. A lot.)

I spent a few days just looking at it, admiring its slim profile and elegant design. Actually, the real reason why I just stared was because I didn’t know how to use it. I’m not much of a gadget person, but once I figured it out, I couldn’t put the thing down.

During the first week of my relationship with myPod, we spent hours together in the iTunes store, listening to samples of songs, spending a lot of money on things we didn’t need. You know how it goes in a budding romance.

Week two found us in the Podcast tunnel of love. For those of you who haven’t yet experienced the Podcast, you have no idea what you’re missing. Especially if you spend long stretches of time in the car. NPR books, movies and food, the New York Times front page, ESPN Radio – I had gone far too long without “Pardon the Interruption” in my life. But those days are over.

During week three, ShopGuy brought home another surprise: a box of six iPod socks. Sure, it sounds like a ridiculous idea. And at $29 for the set, it’s a bit of a splurge (www.apple.com). But I can protect myPod, match my outfits and get all sorts of compliments on how cute my Nano is – all at the same time.

What can I say? iPod, therefore I accessorize. And week three brought another great accessory from ShopGuy – albeit a more practical one – in the form of the Griffin iTrip Auto ($69.99, www.griffintechnology.com). This handy little charger and car stereo adapter allows me to take my Nano on the road. I think ShopGuy was concerned about me illegally using my earbuds to listen to Podcasts in the car. Like I’d ever do that. OK, I did do that. But just once.

Now, myPod and I have settled into a comfortable, cozy routine. But the romance hasn’t worn off. I still might get a little jealous if you get too close to my Nano. But at $150 for a 1GB version, you can get your own.

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ShopGirl would love to hear from you! Send questions, comments or suggestions by e-mail to: kandresen@bangordailynews.net, by U.S. mail to: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor, ME 04402-1329, or by fax to: 941-9476. Tune in to ShopGirl at 5 p.m. Fridays on WLBZ-2.