I’ve been a lover of the personal computer for a long time. My first computer was a TRS-80. It had 4 KB of memory and extremely limited use. I taught myself BASIC and wrote several programs, including one for averaging grades. I quickly updated to a 16 KB version. Programs were saved on a tape player. The thing was clunky and I absolutely loved it. Thinking back I find it all rather astonishing what has changed over the years. But change it has.
I now, to my total astonishment, have four totally functioning computers: my MacBook Pro, my nifty new iPhone 6, an iPad, and a ChromeBook. I got the ChromeBook when my first generation iPad got so obsolete that I could only use it for playing solitaire. I decided I couldn’t afford a new iPad, so I got the ChromeBook for a mere $198.00. It’s web-based, i.e., there’s very little actually on the computer; everything is accessed through the web. All told that little computer has been a dandy. I still use it for streaming movies on Netflix or Amazon Prime; it’s comfortable on my lap and with ear buds, it works just fine. And then about a month ago a friend who updated his iPad passed his down to me, so I’m back with a fully functioning iPad. Four computers! Good grief, do I really need all four?
The easy answer is no. But I do use them all; I mean, as long as I have them, I may as well use them. The ChromeBook sits by my easy chair for fast access while watching TV or reading; the iPhone is always with me and I use it sending messages, checking my e-mail, practicing my Spanish on Duolingo, playing solitaire—oh, and making telephone calls; the iPad goes with me every morning to Starbucks where I am the designated looker-upper when disputes arise (and they always do); and I use my MacBook Pro for everything else.
Could I get along with fewer? Certainly. Am I getting rid of any of these? Don’t bet your bippy on it!
