From entries submitted last fall to a contest held by X-10 (USA) Inc., makers of the ActiveHome home-automation system, which lets users program their personal computers to control lights, stereos, coffeemakers, and other appliances. Prizes went to those who submitted the best account of how ActiveHome improves their lives.

I use ActiveHome to run macros (sets of home-automation instructions). I have a home security macro, a home theater macro and an "Ahhhh yeah, baby" macro, which allows me to have Marvin Gaye's "sexual Healing" turned on through an appliance module hooked up to my boom box. -Jason Johnson

A while back, an acquaintance I hadn't seen for sixteen years dropped in on me unexpectedly. As she strolled through the house, I explained to her how my ActiveHome system controls my thermostat and automatically turns lights on at night, making my home safer, more energy efficient, and just plain fun. She was so impressed that she wants to go on a date with me. Way to go ActiveHome! Thanks.-Carl Todd

 
"After we arrived home one night, my wife and I were interested in spending some additional time with each other. We lay down on the couch and I casually turned on some mood music and started some incense burning with my UltimateREMOTE controller. I didn't have to spoil the mood by getting up. That night was one of the most romantic nights I have ever spent with my wife. X10 made everything come off flawlessly." - Philip Obermeyer

"For romantic situations, I have created a macro that will slowly dim the lights as my date and I are watching a movie. After a couple of hours, the lights in the living room go out completely and the ones in the bedroom come on. This usually starts a discussion about my home control system . Just like a bug zapper, my prey is drawn to the light." - Carlos Peratoner