Testing...

So, on Wednesday of last week, our 6 year old laptop finally bit the dust. Through the huge generosity of TWO people I love, we now have a brand-spanking new computer. Well, the computer part is new. The monitor is the old HUGE one that Nick bought in 2000 that weighs more than both of our children...put together. But, it works! The first thing we did was try watching video on youtube - a frustrating experience on the old computer, to put it mildly. I have to admit to crying a little at the clear, steady image. I feel so thankful. Actually, what we watched was good too. Have you seen the new Weepies video that is muppets? SO great. Audrey sat on my lap and watched it over and over.

Therefore, I have been without a computer for a week and a half. I'm amazed at several things:
1. How much you can get done when you are not absorbed in reading 349 million blogs per day.
2. How quiet the house seems when there is no computer yelling at you
3. That the world continues, with or without you
4. That emails do not have to be answered within 30 minutes or less. People generally don't notice if it's 30 minutes or 3 days...or more.
5. That when I choose my reading material, rather than reading whatever Google Reader or Facebook puts in front of me, I learn a lot more and am much more encouraged.
6. That phone calls are much more effective for real connection that anything computer related. 3 1/2 hour dinners are even better. ;)
7. That my children absolutely, positively did not miss the computer one bit. Having mommy more mentally available was huge.

Now. To remember these things and make the appropriate changes.

Oh, and read this post by Glenn. Great reminder and perspective, from someone who loves the U.S., can't vote, and has some thoughts we all need to remember about our citizenship.