For the Love of Technology

Electronics vending machine, including Ipods, Itouch, headphones, PSP's, Camera's etc

http://picasaweb.google.com/JohnHobbs003/USALasVegas#5230986788747456578

So... technology. We all love it. Don't we. Of course we do.
Ahem.

I decided to try and think hard about what aspects of technology I do love. Innovations that have really, honestly and for true, made my life easier. Sadly, it's a short list.

1. Remote controls (television and car keys)
Got to love this. My couch-potato butt does not love it, but I do. And being able to get the whole family in the car at one time - it does my head in to realize my children will never know what it's like to stand at the back doors of a car, waiting for Mum or Dad to reach around or across and open it. This one invention has completely changed family dynamics in the car park and on long trips. Amazing.

2. The microwave
I love a cup of tea. Since I had kids, I never seem to finish one. Thanks to my trusty microwave, I can reheat the same cup all day. Saving power by not reboiling the kettle, saving on washing up by not using a new mug. Cooking rice is made easy.

3. The Internet
Can't deny it. To be able to look up the news at any time... movie times (not that ever get to go, but theoretically I could find out when a movie is on for someone else to attend!) ... to see images of what is happening on the other side of the world... it's not all good but it's just so damn convenient.

4. Electronic Program Guide
And last but not least, my digital television that lets me look up what is on now, what is going to be on in a few days, and set reminders of the shows I want to watch but always forget. I know it's tragic that two of my four items are TV based, but I'm not about to pretend I'm not in the middle of a passionate love affair with my TV.

Now - the mobile phone. I know most people would include this. I seesawed back and forth about it. It's a wonderful thing when you're trying to meet up with people in a crowded or large public place... it's terrific to know that if an emergency occurs you can be informed straight away and get to your family and friends sooner...

BUT.

How many times have you sent eight texts back and forth to organise a simple dinner when one ten second phone call would have done?
How many times have you had to listen to the inner workings of other people's private lives at top volume while you waited in line at the checkout or sat behind them on a train?
How many times has your phone gone off at the most inappropriate possible moment and made you wish you could disappear into the tiny, tiny little screen?

We got by just fine before mobile phones. Sometimes I wish we could again.