Old

I was spending the afternoon on old movies and found myself watching the 1983 movie ‘War Games’, with Matthew Broderick and Ally Sheedy. The ancient computers and modems were fun to see but the coolest part was seeing Matthew Broderick’s character use a 5.25” floppy disk. That was only 25 years ago. Only? Perhaps I am older than I feel.

Defense Against Gas Prices

I was out on the 'Met' again today. It's a 49cc Honda Metropolitan scooter. The bank teller at the Scottish Bank said I was 'styling and profiling!' I think she means I looked cool on the scooter. I continue to be amazed at how nice cars are to me. I went to South Park, Cotswald, picked up an iced latte at Starbucks and rode back home through Sherwood Forest. I never felt pushed or threatened.

Gas was low so on my journey I stopped to fill up the tank. It cost me $3.75 to fill it up.

Children

I just spent 3 days in the NC Mountains with my 12 year old son. He is a joy to travel with. He is willing to help with anything. He can amuse himself outside. I never heard the word 'bored'. Now we are home again and he is in the basement with his older brother(19). They both laugh out loud at funny stuff on TV. Yes it was the first thing he did when we got home, though he never mentioned TV at all while we travelled. Regardless of the what provokes it I enjoy their laughter.

Children are often a nuisance. They can be disappointing people who do little to help themselves and nothing to help you. Given some time and space, as my weekend showed me, they can also be a treasure.

Cell Phones Bane or Benefit

Cell phones, everyone has one, but does this make the world a better place. After some consideration I think the damage outweighs the benefits. Sure, you can find your kids when you want them. Getting out of Concord Mills is much easier. That only works if they decide to pick up. What happens when they are in constant contact with all their friends? They pass all the latest gossip faster than ever. It is no more accurate, just faster. Anything bad that happens is instantly transmitted to everyone, with a twist. It all goes back to Garry's things that are never true. Anything amazing that children hear from their school friends may be amazing but it is never true. All cell phones do is speed up the spread of false information. Let's turn them off.