Technology

I am trying to convince myself that the reason I hand new technology over to my 11 year old is because she's so quick to get things done, not because my brain is degenerating. Yesterday someone gave us a webcam. I immediately handed it to Dancer. She figured out the hardware, downloaded the software, signed up for Skype, signed her sister up for Skype, and tonight is having a video call with a friend from around the corner.

If it were left to me, the webcam would be installed sometime next year.

We bought new cell phones a couple of months ago, and within 24 hours Dancer knew every feature of hers. I live on a need-to-know basis with my phone (which is far less sophisticated), and when I need to know I ask Dancer.

I'm not a Luddite, but I'm not a fast adopter. I like to wait and see what's truly helpful; I'm leery of adding anything that creates more interruptions or distractions. I thought Skype would be useful for when Eldest goes away to college; it will be nice to see her as well as hear her. The friend who gave us the webcam assures me his elderly father in Florida uses Skype every week to talk to him, and that even a technical twit (like me?) can manage it.

Meanwhile, I'm considering learning how to use speed dial.