January 26, 2013

Are we all on Digital Overload?




 What is it about our technology that is so addictive? As much as I hate to admit it, I am hooked on the digital world myself but no where as close as the younger generation of today. But, I live alone and it keeps me company. I think if my husband were still alive, I would be paying more attention to him and revert to my computer only when he would be watching sports in the other room or something.

I think we are all in digital overload. Do we need to detox from cyberspace? We all relate to technology habits and paying more attention to the Smart Phones then to people. We do have to limit time with technology.

Just walk into any restaurant and look around. I can understand the people that are sitting alone in a booth for lunch with their laptop, smart phone or Kindle but when you are sitting with another person..........no one talks to each other anymore!

Watching the News tonight, I was glad to see that a new Smart Phone will automatically shut off when a person is driving over 25 miles per hour and the phone will not allow texting in the car! Cool. That is a step in the right direction for safety. I think the phone was a Discover Smart Phone which has more features than the IPhone and the Android and cost only $49.00.  I personally think they should shut off texting while in the car period! 

Detox packages are nothing new. For decades, hotels and vacation retreats have enticed guests to "Relax," often with the help of a specialized diet plan and fitness regimens (with a massage thrown in for good measure). These days, the concept is being pushed to help us disconnect from technology. Digital detox is now one of the biggest trends to hit the hospitality industry in the coming year.

I do remember a few years back, my children took me to Vermont for a Mother's Day weekend at the Von Trapp Family Lodge which was amazing.  It was where they filmed "The Sound of Music".  The first thing my son said was NO TV, NO PHONES.  He wanted us all to just concentrate on ourselves and enjoy each other for a weekend.  It was wonderful.  I do admit, when I woke up, I had the habit of turning the TV on to listen to the News and immediately my son walked by and turned the TV off.
  
I do believe we have to stay in touch with each other but not glued to technology. Go out and play and have fun!

My computer helps me through the lonely nights but even I know my limits with cypberspace. I even set my oven timer to remind me to get off the computer! And, then I go for a walk or a swim in the pool.  Sorry guys, I know the word "swim" gave you a twinge for my family and friends enduring the frigid temps up north.

January 6, 2013

Christmas is always wonderful where your heart is!

 
New England is lovely when blanketed in winter white for the holidays. I did pray for a White Christmas but not a Nor'Easter! LOL   A few days dipped into the single digits and something I'm not used to anymore.

Winter is a time to enjoy the invigorating freshness of a winter day, then sip hot chocolate in front of a fire. Rhonda had a bon fire going behind her house, I was not sipping on cocoa but wine or scotch was my preference. I didn't last long outdoors, as it was too cold for me even though I was bundled up.

I attended many holiday parties and had a blast! I especially enjoyed spending time with my children and family.

Enjoyed seeing my dear Revere classmate friends at a prearranged Italian luncheon at DeMaino's. Also, had the pleasure of being with my Everett friends for Chinese Food.

I always make sure I get in my Italian food, Chinese, and Seafood while in New England because it is not the same in South Florida.

The temps dipped as low as 9 degrees one day! Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! Thank goodness my daughter has enough winter gear for me to borrow while I'm visiting.

Christmas and New Year's Day was wonderful and also my birthday!


Thommy and Lou also brightened my day with many goodies to take home!
 
I was spoiled rotten and loved every minute of it. I love my new Kindle Fire!