Thou Shalt Not Covet thy Neighbor’s Wifi
Posted October 25th, 2011 at 8:35 pm
The following post (three of four) is sponsored by DELL and their fancy new Inspiron All-in-One 2320 Computer which (hooray!) is up for grabs for giveaway! (See rules and regs below.) Thanks, Dell! You = awesome.
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The day I was discharged from the hospital, miserable and sore, empty-handed with two newborns in the NICU, Hal brought me home, sat me down and handed me a present. Yes, a present.
“Don’t yell. This is not a push present. This is a ‘you need this and refuse to buy yourself one so I will’ present. It just happens that you just gave birth.”
The gift was a new laptop he had purchased the day after Bo & Rev were born after seeing me struggle to write from my hospital bed on a five -year-old laptop, a chunk missing from the right side and a wifi stick that seldom worked. (My wifi broke over a year ago and I’ve been using a wifi stick ever since.)
Hal had been trying to convince me to buy myself a new laptop for the last several months. But I LOVED my old laptop. It had soul, man! Like a vintage artifact! Of course WORKING on a vintage artifact is not ideal and no matter how hard I wax poetic about the allure of typewriters and rotary telephones, they’re impractical in today’s world of tomorrowland.
I have a hard time reconciling this. Perhaps I’ve read far too much post-war Parisian literature about writers banging away on hundred year old machines so that new gadgetry doesn’t appeal to me at all…
And yet the world requires we make upgrades so that we can compete in a tech-based society. That’s especially true for those of us who make our living in a technical field. For instance blogging on a defunct machine is just stupid on my part. And yet… it took me several weeks to pull Hal’s generous gift out of its box and put it to use.
a photo Hal took last year of the kids playing on his phone which he loads with kid apps when I’m not looking
I guess in a way, I’m on the fence with technological gadgetry. I don’t want to feel like my life depends on the latest and greatest. I don’t want to get sucked into monthly upgrades and yearly trade-ins, especially since every few months there’s a new “must have” item on everyone’s list.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m attached at the palm to my phone. I’m obsessed with my computer. My blog is like my fifth child. (I still can’t believe I have four children, wtf.) but I resent what these devices take from us as much as I appreciate all that they offer. I hate that we have been programmed to think we must replace what is “obsolete” … or “not good enough” or “not fast enough” with what today calls “the best” “even better” “the only way to learn”…
It has been beaten into us that the only way to be “cool with the kids” is to “out with the old, in with the new” EVERYTHING. If you can afford to buy the new upgraded phone? You should do it. If your computer is four years old and isn’t in mint condition? Throw it away and buy a new one. Why? Because that’s just what you do, silly!
It’s kind of why it bothers me that Archer’s school is going tablet… because unlike journals and books that have tangible qualities and long (potentially ANCIENT) lifespans, a technological device lasts a mere two to three years before demanding a replacement.
What does that mindset do to us as people? As parents and spouses and partners? Nothing? Something? Everything?
That being said, I am typing this post on my brand spanking new laptop (thank you, Hal!) with my brand spanking new babies (thank you, Hal), besides an application for what could end up becoming our brand spanking new house (come on, Steve!) so you might just want to ignore this entire post. Especially the title because I DO covet thy neighbor’s wifi. Mine keeps losing signal.
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Do you covet the latest in tech gadgetry? Comment away for a chance to win an Inspiron One 2320 Touch computer! This giveaway will run until Friday, October 28th at 11:59 p.m. EDT and is open to all U.S. residents. A winner will be chosen at random using Random.org from all eligible entries. Each reader has FOUR chances to win by leaving a separate comment on each of my Dell posts, and Dell posts by other bloggers participating in this campaign (you can find those posts at the Family Tech topics page). The chosen winner must respond within 48 hours of notification to claim their prize. Good luck!
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265 Comments
Little Gray Pixel commented on Oct 25 11 at 8:54 pmI’m in denial about my laptop, too. It’s circa 2005 and getting crustier every day. I could use the Inspiron. Count me in.
Homa commented on Oct 25 11 at 8:55 pmI used to want the latest and greatest in tech but that was years ago. I like the quirks of our laptop, especially after helping my mom with a brand new computer that crashed spectacularly! She still hasn’t replaced it, actually.
Clare commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:02 pmI’m in desperate need of a new laptop. Perfect timing!
Jenn commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:05 pmI love your posts, Rebecca! Keep writing!
Jessica commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:05 pmSometimes I do. Sometimes, it seems too daunting to learn yet another device! However. I would love a new laptop!
Dallas commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:07 pmI fall victim to the latest and greatest trap FOR SURE. Goodness. I do love me some apple products… It’s like all they have to do is say, “Look, we made this!” and I want it.
Charlotte Anne commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:08 pmI always covet the new phone/laptop/ipad etc… but I am learning to be happy with what I have, and that I don’t NEED the latest and greatest thing! Now if I could only convince my husband of the same.
Jessica Schueler commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:10 pmI’m 32 and I didn’t get a computer until I was 25. . .not a laptop until last year. My high school age cousins have Ipads provided by their school. The world is crazy man.
Hayley commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:13 pmI bought my laptop refurbished, so it was around $500 instead of $1,000. But it comes with a price. It’s a year old and telling me I need a new battery, the backslash key is possessed and gets a little cray cray up in here, and part of my speaker is falling off. Now, I’ll give the laptop some props for surviving through a year in Europe with me…but I don’t know how much longer she’ll hold on. I would love to have a new one…that would be fantastic…since I’m usually all about new technology (months after they surface) but my little budget wouldn’t work out too well :(
Lisa commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:15 pmNew Laptop + me = a happy Lisa…I love the latest gadgets…being a stay-at- home mom…the make me feel in touch with the world!
Mandy S commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:15 pmFor my work, I am coveting a smart board. I work in a public library helping kids with homework four days a week and I can think of a MILLION THINGS we could do with a white board for not only homework help, but also free technology training for patrons that have been swallowed up by the digital divide. And just so you know, I”m reluctant to buy into every tech gadget and update out there, too- so you’re not alone. However, my kid is 26 months old and putting words together on our iPad. It. Is. Insane. Just like television and bad music, “everything in moderation” is key, IMHO.
Lindsey commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:16 pmI have a brand new laptop (well I guess it’s a year old but its still swanky and fabulous) my husband on the other hand does not have a brand new laptop and he desperately needs one for work.
Marie commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:16 pmI love technology but won’t allow myself an iPhone because I already spend way too much time on my laptop getting sucked into Facebook, Twitter, etc..
Elaine commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:18 pmI’m actually an engineer so I’m kind of forced to keep up with the newest gadgets and technology. On top of that I really just love that stuff. I take pleasure in upgrading or tweaking, especially when the changes can make our lives just a little easier. Probably the most notable of those changes is taking every DVD we own and ripping it onto a giant bay of hard drives. I’m about to have a second child in a small house and the space all those movies take up is just necessary at this point.
Even though I’m a gadget nerd I only update my laptop every 2-3 years. Most normal users won’t even notice they need a change until about year 3 anyway.
kb commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:18 pmWord, I feel ya. I’m constantly pulled toward new devices and then I wonder why I’m so ADD, why every pop-up pulls me away, why I have an iPad, and iPhone and still consider trading in my 4 year old computer.
So I decided to throw out writing on the computer for a bit, which is mega hard because writing is my job…but writing in a crappy notebook has given me pause when choosing my words, thoughts, ideas. A much-needed panacea for the ten tabs open in a browser blues.
That being said, this notebook could use an upgrade. An upgrade that comes with a power cord and that all-important WiFi signal.
The Dalai Mama commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:19 pmNeed it!!!!! I love technology and covet much of it…
Amanda A. commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:22 pmI dont typically know what the newest products usually are. I do really enjoy my phone, but I typically get a new one then a newer one comes out a month later. Typical Amanda fashion…
Melissa Walker commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:24 pmI will do anything to avoid buying new technology. I very recently got rid of my tv from 12 years ago and my laptop is older than both my children!
Gabie commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:25 pmI covet the Apple products because I have none and have never had any and will probably never have any but I desperately need a new laptop and if I don’t win a computer here I’ll be in line black Friday!!!
Bekka commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:25 pmI completely agree – it’s not about the latest and greatest, and I HATE the wastefulness of the mentality that new is always better… but there comes a point where principle bows to practicality. My personal solution is to wait until the fancy new gadget is on version 3 or 4… then swoop in and pick up a 1 or 2, which is MORE than adequate for my needs and much, much closer to my budget. That said, I certainly wouldn’t say no to a free Inspiron… So maybe I’m as much of a hypocrite as everyone else!
Kathryn K commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:26 pmI used to be so against the “new every two” philosophy, but companies are making their products so that they really do have to be replace every couple of years, so I guess it’s kinda what we are stuck with. Out with the old and in with the new!
grammargeek commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:29 pmThe battery in our laptop died three years ago, so it is now pretty much non-portable. We bought a shiny new iPad, but there are things it just can’t do.
Tracey commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:30 pmI covet new technology to a degree. Would definitely love a new laptop and iPad, but I usually wait until they are more afforable, therefore making them obsolete. ;-)
lonek8 commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:34 pmWhile I am seduced by everything new and shiny, as well as stories online from everyone raving about their new gear, I HATE adjusting to a new computer or phone. learning all the ins and outs (and what the tiny little icons mean), figuring out how to transfer all my data, then giving up and re-entering everything manually – that’s just no fun. So I try not to upgrade unless it is really necessary – which unfortunately it seems to be almost every couple of years. It makes me feel like such an old biddy to say, but they just don’t make things like they used to.
plurabelle commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:36 pmI am in a bit of denial about needing a new laptop. In fact, I use an older Dell Inspiron that has long reached the point of retirement, suffering several mishaps including kiddo that likes to play “piano” on the keyboard. I’m throwing my name into the hat.
Nicole commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:37 pmI need a new laptop too! Mine is on it’s last leg.
Kristy commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:44 pmEveryone around me has the latest “I” gadget: Iphone, Ipad, Ipod, Iwhatever. I have a beat up Samsung cell phone that texts and gets calls. I have a laptop, but no Ipad. I have no music player except the CD player in my kitchen (helps keep me motivated while cleaning/washing dishes/scrubbing floors/making dinner) and the CD player in my car. I see people with their kids who are learning so many things on these Idevices and, I admit, I get jealous. My 8-year-old was so easy to teach things, but my 2-year-old wants to be schooled in the ways of Disney princesses. She wants to know who is who and what they are doing. So, long story short, I covet thy neighbors Idevice, but if I had it, I have no clue what I would actually do with it.
robyn L commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:46 pmI don’t really covet the latest in technology. However, it would be nice to get a new laptop as my one-year-old daughter has broken three keys off my current one. I have to do some crazy maneuvering to “shift”, “ctrl”, or “alt”. Also, I’ve pre-ordered a Kindle Fire tablet, but only because my mom gave me a $200 Amazon gift card for my birthday. :) But, all in all, I tend not to go for the latest and greatest, because I know I will just become frustrated with how quickly those gadgets will become obsolete. I don’t like to have to worry about keeping up or replacing stuff that will inevitably fall apart in two or three years.
Lacey Jane commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:53 pmMy iPhone is my bff. I am trying to wean myself to prepare for my first baby. I feel like my kid will picture me in his or her head only with my iPhone attached to my hand. *sigh*
…of course I also think I will use it MORE once I have the baby. I hear they really like to nurse, and what else am I supposed to do? Read an actual book? oasdasjfh psh.
April G. commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:54 pmI like nice things but am frugal (and a poor grad student!) so I hardly ever buy fancy gadgets. I love my iPhone though. It’s an iPhone 4, but my first one. It’s much better than my circa 2004 pink iPod mini! I have had it for a year and still completely adore it.
I got a loan from my university for my current laptop, and am still paying it off 4 years later. Sigh.
Amanda commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:54 pmI agree with you on all fronts, though I do find myself lusting to upgrade my less than year old cell phone. This laptop I bought for myself after passing a really hard certification test for work, and well, I wouldn’t say no if someone dropped a new laptop in my mailbox either :)
Krin commented on Oct 25 11 at 9:57 pmI dont think I’m a real covet your neighbor type of gal. I’m afraid to jinx myself by saying this but my Dell inspiron is almost 5 and a half years old and still works great. I do have fears that it will quit any day because my last Dell laptop died after exactly 4 years of undergrad. My husband keeps bugging me to get a new one in case this one goes kaput but I don’t want to waste a perfectly good laptop before it’s time is up.
Rebecca S. commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:11 pmI always WANT the latest technology, but I am nowhere close to being able to afford the “upgrade every few months” lifestyle. Basically I just replace my phones and computers when they stop working and/or meeting my needs.
JLS717 commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:15 pmYep, I do. I just got the iPhone 4s and then made the mistake of clicking on an article that informed me that the iPhone 5 would be out in spring 2012. Doh!
Laura commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:18 pmYour issues are so romantic – I don’t upgrade my gadgets because I’m cheap as hell. This giveaway could be the answer to my problems!
Holly A. commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:18 pmI do and yet here I sit typing on my 6 year old (ancient in technology years) laptop!
Vanessa commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:20 pmI too seem to be behind the times even though my head is with the times. My motto is if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. If it works then tell me why is an upgrade needed?
Courtney commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:20 pmA new computer would be such a huge help! I am too cheap to even look despite losing the whole portability attractiveness of a laptop, it has to be plugged in because it hates batteries now.
Courtney commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:22 pmI definitely need a new laptop, but this old one (which is now effectively a desktop as the battery doesn’t work and neither does the keyboard so it has to be plugged in and have an external keyboard which means an external mouse for me to be able to use it) has gotten me through 4.5 years of a PhD so I am hoping it will last the last 6 months. So I definitely am coveting new technology!
Lisa commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:26 pmMy computer is a 7yr old Dell standard computer, not even a laptop. I don’t think I need the newest in everything (I don’t have an iphone, nor do I really want one) but a newer/faster computer especially a laptop would be fabulous. Your blog for example, takes about 45 seconds to a minute to load, in the world of computers that’s a long time. I can’t wait till I find out if Santa brings me a laptop or not…
Anna commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:29 pmKeeping up with tech is tricky. I’m waiting on the whole e-book/iPad situation until I feel it’s absolutely necessary…. I like my books on paper and my notes in notebooks…at least for now!
Jo Bru commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:31 pmI work a full-time job from home and I hog our computer a lot out of necessity. I’ve thought of getting a laptop, but I think I would be uncomfortable doing my work without a large enough screen. Also, I can’t see myself going to a café to work. I think the music and other people talking would be huge distractions for me. I covet the idea of a laptop—the idea of the freedom to change work locations.
Keri commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:33 pmToday I was SOOOOOOOOOOO tempted to get a iPad. My teaching colleague showed me his new iTab and how he scanned and uploaded our entire curriculum on it! Since I teach three different levels of American Sign Language, my book bag is ridiculously heavy with three different curriculum textbooks! I don’t have a phone and have a 3-year-old laptop that I’m perfectly happy with but the iTab is something I’m coveting for…to save my back! =P
Brenda commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:35 pmMy 3 year old would love her OWN computer and so would we (to be able to use ours because it’s always being jogged by our (( fabulous technologically advanced Wii playing, facebook savvy)) 3 year old girl genius!) Supabrenda@aol.com
Kris commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:40 pmOh, I’m so with you on this one. My phone is only a phone – no data pack, no web surfing, and pay-as-you-go texting. At 39, I feel like a big, clumsy dinosaur. And GASP! we still have a land line phone.
But my son is on the autism spectrum, and his ipad has given him a voice where he had nothing but screams & rage before. So, although I think I’m obsolete; I understand the need for these amazing devices.
But still. I love to play cribbage and Uno and Phase 10. With other people. Around my kitchen table, not around a computer. I just think we’re all going to be burned out of all this gadgetry in another 5 years.
Siaci commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:42 pmI am in love with wifi, because I love to hang out and write or surf in parks and gardens and on porches and train stations, and oh it is SO important in airports! However, I am not even on like with touch screen devices. Typing on keys is easier on the hands and sounds lovely. I do appreciate that storage space and speed keeps growing while size does not. I would love a lighter laptop — I thought hauling around brick-like backpacks would end after college graduation!
Denise C. commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:52 pmI really need a new computer! That would be totally awesome. :)
Glenda commented on Oct 25 11 at 10:53 pmMy hubby is so into technology so he’s gifted me an iPod, iPad, iPhone and a kindle. My laptop is 3 years old. If it weren’t for the gifts I’d be perfectly fine with what had because honestly sometimes I don’t have the patience to learn new gadgets / upgrades etc.
Sarah commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:02 pmOh boy, I need a new laptop too :( My poor baby has a bad logic board and I use him every day for work. I’m really gonna be in trouble when it finally goes!
Jennifer commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:05 pmI’m really torn on this one: I don’t like the wastefulness prompted by rapidly improving technology, but I’m also really excited when new products are introduced because… Hey! Rapidly Improving Technology!!! I do like programs that recycle or donate older devices.
Tara V commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:14 pmHmm… Normally I would say no, but I just went out and bought the new iPhone 4S. I’m rationalizing it by saying I take all our pictures with my phone these days and this one has a better camera, but in all honesty, my 3GS was working just fine. I did sell the old one for $132 and buy the new one for $199, however, so that does make me feel a slight bit more responsible!
Sarah Reed commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:26 pmI gave my circa 2004 lap top to a friend last year and have not bought a new one, plugging away on my phone. And yes, I am commenting because I would like a new one!
Aimee commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:28 pmI need a new laptop and my husband is trying to break my addiction to my mac. He keeps on pointing out flaws like my mom did about my high school boyfriend. Am I just blindly loyal again? Ah!
emily shur commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:29 pmStill lovin my Fijitsu from 2008, why replace it if it isn’t broke?
Ali Tong commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:37 pmWe love Dell’s. They are the workhorses of computers. I want it!
Alexandria commented on Oct 25 11 at 11:38 pmMy laptop is fairly new but its a low end HP that I got after my high end HP had a motherboard death. And this one somehow still feels weird even after 6 months.
Lenore commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:14 amI am always coveting the latest, greatest tech toys. I’d love the Inspiron!
aly commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:14 amI have a fairly new, fancy smart phone that I love. I am so embarrassed at the age of my computer I won’t even admit it. Glad you got a new laptop…what a sweet hubby you have!
Crystal K commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:29 amIm definitely lovin my ipad more than i expected
M. commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:39 amI’m definitely becoming a tech geek. I thought I wasn’t, but, well, my laptop, droid, and kindle say otherwise.
Anne commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:43 amI need my old machines pried away from me too…it’s not like it’s because I’m happy with them the way they are, I just can’t bring myself to replace something that technically functions even if it’s a slow computer or my TV that looks funny until it warms up for 5 minutes. At the same time I’m surrounded by newer better faster at work or whatever. Even though my work computer and work iPhone are eligible for “technology refreshes” in what seems like the blink of an eye, and it’s not a cost to me, I still resist swapping them out because that just seems really silly! In a month or two I’ll be allowed to get a brand new iPhone because I will have had my 3GS (which is fine, dandy, splendid, perfect) for 18 months. I have to admit I miiiiiiiiight act on that a little sooner than absolutely warranted…
Christy commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:49 amI would love a new laptop!! Our old computer died, and I’m not sure if I can bring I back to life, again.
Liz L. commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:01 amI am with you 100% – I held on to my last laptop forever and then when my husband got me a new one, I was like WHOA, this is so much better!
Hyatt commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:05 amI will totally be honest and admit that I am a “latest and greatest frequent upgrader!
Kate commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:05 amMy laptop is dying a slow, protracted death. New and shiny sounds pretty good.
Barb @ getupandplay commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:08 amI love my laptop except that the keys aren’t backlit which drives me bonkers at least twice a week.
Stef commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:42 amIt seems my course of action in these matters is to buy the best that I can afford at the time, use it until it dies (or even beyond when, if possible), and repeat the process. As a result, my car, my phone, my camera, my desktop, my laptop, my (not marble) counter top are all perfectly serviceable, but I don’t inhabit a world full of shiny and new. I impress nobody, until my whatever needs replacing, and then my new treasure and I will dazzle you for weeks! until it, too, becomes passe.
shannon commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:43 amya know, i really covet new technology even though i hate that i’m glued to my computer for an unspeakable amount of time a day. i feel like it would make my life so much easier to have enough expendable income to keep up with the latest of things but i can distinctly remember reading more books, getting out of my house more, and interacting with people more when i lived in germany for 10 months with internet access only at work and not in my home. now, i search around my room aimlessly and all panicky-like not knowing what to do with myself when i come home and the internet is out for a few minutes. firstworldproblems.
Kirsten Newcomb commented on Oct 26 11 at 4:17 amI took a filler course in college, not something I needed in order to graduate, just something fun. Or so I thought. It ended up being the best and hardest class I took. One assignment was to detatch ourselves from technology. No watching bad daytime TV, no blasting the car radio when your jam came on (it was scarey how much my driving improved), and only using cell phones to call Mom. What I ended up gaining was that we can’t escape technology, not in this society. It surrounds you from speakers at the gas station and is hard wired into most restaurants. Every day it’s a struggle, but moderation in technology does make a difference (as I post this from my iPhone). Sigh.
Susan commented on Oct 26 11 at 5:21 amA new laptop would be lovely!
Deanna commented on Oct 26 11 at 6:36 amI never realized how much I need/use technology until my purse was stolen. Taking my beautiful iPhone and credit cards with it. The very next day my laptop died but with no credit cards I had to suck it up for awhile. Never never again!!!!!
AlexisAnne@CleanSmartSimpleStyle commented on Oct 26 11 at 6:54 amYup, definitely need to replace this crusty old laptop. Missing keys, broken parts….coveting a new one big time!
Rebbie75 commented on Oct 26 11 at 7:48 amI love me some new technology. Come hither, new laptop o’ mine! Please, please…
Dan commented on Oct 26 11 at 7:55 amKids and tech.. I think my kid will be able to hack into wifis soon, and she’s only 5!!!
Kendra commented on Oct 26 11 at 8:22 amMy laptop is 6 years old and has been letting me know lately that it isn’t happy with me. New upgrades don’t work and it’s super slow. But I love it!
jesse k commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:01 amYes, I covet my 3 sisters’ smart phones. But I don’t have an extra $75 to drop on a data plan, so I just have to be content with my unlimited talk miniutes and 200 texts a month!
domestic extraordinaire commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:04 amI am a mac girl and my imac and macbook have lasted many years and I don’t see them going anywhere anytime soon. However my husband has a laptop that screen keep shrinking because of the pixels dying or something like that, he loves that thing and while all he can do nowadays is listen to Pandora, he won’t give it up.
Andi commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:22 amMy problem with technology is that time goes by so fast for me that I always feel like.. “What!? This computer? It’s practically brand new! …Why are those people laughing at it?”
Then I sit and do the math and it’s like.. Oh. It’s 6 years old. I guess that is pretty ancient for a computer… :(
But, you know, I’d take a brand new Dell gladly.
Jill commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:45 amI don’t but my husband does and it drives me crazy!
Kristen commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:47 amI love new gadgets.
Erin J commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:56 amSometimes I feel like I am the only one who isn’t on board with the latest and greatest. Plus, crap, the amount of time to backup everything, and resaving all the important pictures/documents to the latest disc/drive device before that technology becomes obsolete is a pain in the butt. Especially when I can immediately put my hands on my grandma’s 70-year old journal. But I do like things that make my life easier and there is always something spectacular about a new computer or phone, especially when you don’t have the luxury of getting a new one every few years.
Heidi commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:57 amWe haven’t had a computer in the house for close to two years. Yes, I have a smart phone but good golly it just doesn’t cut it. I’ve got thousands of pictures waiting in limbo, ready to be uploaded properly (including pics from the birth of my son). A new computer would be awesome….we just haven’t been able to afford it.
Terra commented on Oct 26 11 at 10:07 amI do covet the new technology; however, I feel like it is a luxury so I haven’t upgraded anything in quite a while. My laptop is from 2003, and my phone is definitely on the basic end of things. Oh well!
Meredith commented on Oct 26 11 at 10:09 amYAY for Hal for getting you a new lab top! You deserve it mama! It is such a great feeling to have something that is new and shiny! My computer is from 1963 but hey, at least I have a wireless mouse! ha ha ha XOXO
Angie commented on Oct 26 11 at 10:43 amI do NOT covet the latest tech gadetry, to the point where I’m just going to wait for my kids to get a bit older and teach me what I’ve fallen so dismally far behind on. However, we are getting our first e-reader next month, and I’m pretty excited for that, if I can figure out how to use it.
Courtney commented on Oct 26 11 at 10:50 amI don’t even own a computer! I use my work laptop at home, and my apartment complex offers free WiFi.
Melissa commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:14 amMy husband gets the latest phone each time they are released. I currently have tape holding the back of my crackberry on. Should I win this computer, it would make the perfect birthday gift for my gadget loving husband.
Leah Crane commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:26 amI felt confused when I got married in 2009 and moved in with my husband that we both happened to own a brand new computer. Like shouldn’t we only need one computer per house? My twin sister was in need of a new computer, but I couldn’t give mine up. She was able to get her own computer but I am so used to sharing everything with her that is was weird once I had a little extra of something she needed (a computer) that i wasn’t able to let it go. Of course most couples have their own computers, and its great. But remember when we had one computer for the whole house to use, and that it stayed in one place. I would be more productive as a mother if i was forced to leave my computer in one place and couldn’t bring it to bed with me if i wanted! When I am tired enough to lay down in bed, then it really should be time for me to leave my computer behind. I know these are the times and our computers follow us around the house like security blankets but still i do get freaked out by technology evolution as well!
Courtney Lyn commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:28 amOh I try hard not to want/need the latest gadgets, but I have gotten sucked into the Apple world. Everything has to be a mac now.
Courtney commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:28 amYes, I am also on a five year old laptop (a Dell Inspiron in fact). I still love mine too, even if the “u” button doesn’t work every time yo press it!
Sarah commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:53 amI am the same! Except….I would LOVE a new gadget. Thank you for the chance to win one!
Melissa commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:00 pmHmm..this laptop is getting crusty…
Nicole commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:00 pmI would love to keep up with the latest. But I’m one of those people that has to wear it to death before I get a new one :-)
Anna Jolley commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:02 pmNot much of a new technology gal either. I usually wait until the hard drive crashes and i’m forced to buy something new (much to the chagrin of my tech savvy husband) But winning a laptop?! YES PLEASE!
Amy K commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:26 pmI have to admit I’m somewhat of an early adopter, or as much as my budget allows (which isn’t as often as I’d like). But I do love gadgets. I love my phone. I’m typing this on a really old macbook that I’m sure will quit on me any day now, but I still love it. A new laptop would be sweet!
Emily commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:30 pmI also pride myself on being behind in the techie world of gadgetry, but I would love to trade in my old iPhone for the new one. Mainly because technology is designed to be useless in nine months, so of course my 3rd generation iPhone is slow as crap since it is unequipped to handle newer iPhone software.
Grace Miller commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:30 pmI only use my work computer to browse the internet & read your blog (while I’m supposed to be working!) because my laptop at home is so old it doesn’t really work like how I want it to. AND I was stealing my neighbor’s wi-fi (when the laptop kind of worked) but alas, the signals are password protected now. I’d love to win a new laptop to use at home!
Laura commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:46 pmI totally agree. What bothers me is the whole waste issue. We’ve completely lost sight of “waste not, want not.” Instead we buy new things when the old things work fine and then throw the old things in a landfill and demand more new things, which require more mining and energy consumption to be made. It is an environmental disaster, not to mention an economical one.
lauren commented on Oct 26 11 at 12:58 pmI only recently upgraded my laptop that was so slow it drove me crazy, and I have to admit, I’m not in love with my new one yet. he just doesn’t have that good old familiar friend feeling yet. AND for the first two years I lived in boston (right out of college) I absolutely did not pay for wifi and had to rely on the kindness of my neighbors. thanks neighbors!
Kristie commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:15 pmI love my phone, but it is my work phone (my employer pays for it, lucky I know). I’m not sure I’d spring the extra $$$ for a smart phone… who am I kidding.. of course I would!
Trish T. commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:16 pmI’m usually aware of newest tech, but rarely can afford upgrades. I did upgrade from an ancient cell phone to a new iPhone (which I love), but I must admit that I long to be less connected, as I was before. Technology breeds addiction, at least in my case, and Angry Birds is going to lead me to an intervention.
Jenny White commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:19 pmMy kids hog our ONE computer. We need another! and it will be MINE!! Good luck with your new kiddos – and the older ones too!
Sara T. commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:28 pmI have to remind myself that just because something is slow doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. That said, my last computer was with us for about 5 years and was only retired because we could hear the hard drive grinding and feared it would just die, along with all our photos and videos. My phone lasted for 4-1/2 years (little battery life upon replacement). The more technology I bring into the house, the more I find myself coveting the new “stuff,” so I try to avoid bringing it in so that I’m not tempted to buy even more.
Elise commented on Oct 26 11 at 1:30 pmI’m not an early adopter either, I like to wait until a new product is is fully vetted and tested by a bajillion other people before I’m willing to spend my money and time figuring out how to use it.
alanna commented on Oct 26 11 at 2:27 pmI absolutely hate that we live in such a disposable society. I don’t want to my things that need to be replaced or upgraded. I want things to be manufactured with integrity, but technology is the epitome of disposable and I don’t know how to live without it.
Amber @ NotMommy commented on Oct 26 11 at 3:14 pmI generally upgrade when my phone contract is up and I get a new one at the discounted rate. My laptops (or desktop) gets renewed about every 4 years. Everything else I generally wait till it dies. Our TV isn’t the newest (though it is an LCD). Peter has had the same computer for years, but he builds them so he takes parts in and out at will (he also sells the old parts and trades with fellow computer geeks).
I try not to covet the newest gadets, my we do have a new tablet (not sure why…other than he got a great deal on one). I kinda want the new iPhone since it has a camera comparable to a point and shoot (so I wouldn’t need 2 gadgets, and my old point and shoot camera died years ago….lugging the DSLR around all the time kinda sucks).
Never mind, I’m just rationalizing everything…I want it all! HAHAHAHAHA
ohjennymae commented on Oct 26 11 at 3:50 pmour laptop is 8 years old and the desktop is 5 years old. the laptop seldom works and the girls are starting to get to the point that they both need a computer to do homework at the same time. if we decide to get another computer, we will recycle the old one. apple sends free shipping labels to make it easier, at least.
Nicole commented on Oct 26 11 at 4:07 pmI love new gadgetry, but honestly am a laggard, when it come to actually getting it. My dad on the other hand is a 70 yr old with the newest iphone.
Miranda commented on Oct 26 11 at 6:02 pmI sometimes find myself coveting the newest and greatest, but then I think about it and realize I’m just not that person. Besides being expensive, I have no NEED to upgrade all the time. I do think there is a point where advancements have been made so if I’m in a kinda want/kinda need situation I might as well upgrade.
Katie commented on Oct 26 11 at 6:38 pmI’m still using a phone that’s three years old, and has none of these newfangled “apps.” But I do covet a little :)
Donna commented on Oct 26 11 at 7:05 pmI myself have NEVER had a laptop. Is that weird? And I’m currently using a 5 year old PC. I am not one to buy myself something new, especially not a new technical thingy. I do think that having something new would be nice though.
julie commented on Oct 26 11 at 8:11 pmRight there with you. You should see my ancient, banged-up cell phone.
Thanks for the contest!
Nan commented on Oct 26 11 at 8:12 pmI may covet the latest in technology but I won’t upgrade until I absolutely must. More because of budget restraints than choice.
Marie commented on Oct 26 11 at 8:30 pmmmm, with laptops my approach has always been to buy very simple and very, very cheap so I can do things like watch the daily show while I do the dishes and not worry about some catastrophe if/when it happens — usually every year and a half or so. A lot of my friends are horrified by this, but (a) their computers cost at least a thousand bucks and (b) it’s not a sacred object, it’s a tool.
Sarah Watson commented on Oct 26 11 at 8:50 pmMy current laptop approach is pretty minimalist. If it has a working key board and can surf the web, then it is appropriate. If it doesn’t cut it, I might complain. Coveting is a thing of the past (the life we led with two incomes.)
lilcg commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:08 pmI always covet everyone else’s new tech!
Jessica commented on Oct 26 11 at 9:52 pmI was one of the last of my friends to finally switch to a smartphone… but man, I LOVE my iphone. It makes it a lot easier to stay connected to people. And like someone else said… if Apple makes it, I’m in! Do I need an iPad? No! Maybe? Yes!… it would absolutely come in handy!
MamaSkates commented on Oct 26 11 at 10:56 pmi would love to win!
Red Stethoscope commented on Oct 26 11 at 11:05 pmAs it so happens, I need a new computer! And, I love your blog!
Lorraine Fitzgerald commented on Oct 27 11 at 1:08 amI drive a ’91 Honda, which I still consider my “new” car, so you can get an idea about the electronics in our house. Anything would be an upgrade.
Jayme commented on Oct 27 11 at 5:00 amHusband is techy. I’m just along for the ride. Although, my iPad just about saves my life on a daily basis, and the little loves to touch the screen to see what happens.
Ami commented on Oct 27 11 at 8:19 amWow, Archer’s school uses tablets? That’s impressive and sad at the same time.
Rachael commented on Oct 27 11 at 9:35 amI was fine without an iPhone for the longest time but now that I broke down and got one I can’t imagine NOT having one! Although I always have a healthy dose of guilt spending any large amount of money on something for myself if my camera or my computer (essentials!) breaks I MUST replace them, and preferably with an updated, more awesome version!
Sadie commented on Oct 27 11 at 10:46 amMy computer is 5 years old and I feel like its ancient. My husband just got a new labtop for work and I have serious computer envy.
Emily commented on Oct 27 11 at 10:55 amI feel the same way about my old laptop. It is slow as molasses, but I feel sentimental about it. So silly!
Kate commented on Oct 27 11 at 11:14 amBacking up your work is the new running into a burning house to save your journals stashed under the mattress.
Emily commented on Oct 27 11 at 11:23 amI have a hard time giving into all the hype and excitement of new technology. I know I will slowly acclimate to it all, but for now I don’t mind the old stuff, works just fine for my needs. :)
Briana commented on Oct 27 11 at 12:56 pmIt makes me sad to think that they are replacing books with tablets. Not only are the horribly expensive, but they will be outdated long before schools will be able to afford to replace them. Then it will be back to books and sharing. Plus, tablets don’t have that smell to them…
Suzanne M commented on Oct 27 11 at 1:24 pmI think tablets and smartboards are awesome in school. It gets the kids so much more engaged in learning – interactive videos and activities vs. a boring old book. I think the kids will learn and retain much more due to this technology. I need more of it myself. Like a new Dell, thank you!
Nicole commented on Oct 27 11 at 1:31 pmI am not at all up to date with technology. I have a desktop that I bought in 2006 and I had a refurbished laptop that never actually worked right. I need a laptop to be able to blog and do my school work. I have chronic pain and can’t sit at the computer too often because of it. The laptop I had worked well enough for me to do what needed to be done however a few weeks ago it stopped working. Just died on me. It’s not the battery so I have no idea what it is.. and no money to buy a new one. SO… desktop it is when pain allows it. I could definitely use a new laptop, or a ipad, or… anything? haha. One day I’ll have a house filled with electronics.. all but a nook. I like my books thank you. :)
Kim Q commented on Oct 27 11 at 1:59 pmOh gadgets- they can be so good and so bad simultaneously. I just upgraded to a smart phone from my 5 year old pay as you go flip phone. I would say that upgrade was truly deserved.
Kamber commented on Oct 27 11 at 2:49 pmIn my son’s classroom the occasionally bring out the iPad, and when they do the kids love it. I think it’s great that the kids are exposed and get to use it to learn, but that it is not the main focus.
RJ commented on Oct 27 11 at 2:57 pmI think tablets are great and all, but I love the smell and feel of books. This makes me want to give books as gifts to small children even more than I did before
caelan commented on Oct 27 11 at 2:58 pmI covet my neighbor’s wifi all the time. Sometimes I even . . . *gasp* . . . borrow it.
colina commented on Oct 27 11 at 2:59 pmI love the pic of Fable on her big brother’s shoulder. Adorable!
Liz commented on Oct 27 11 at 4:48 pm4 years is a long time to have a laptop! Especially when you write on it for a living. Congratulations on your brand spanking new babies!
Kathryn commented on Oct 27 11 at 4:55 pmI don’t covet the newest tech gadgets, mainly because I’m afraid I won’t like it as much as what I have now. However, when my tech gadgets break I’m often pissed I didn’t previously upgrade.
Aimee commented on Oct 27 11 at 10:02 pmI covet a new phone – one that is not from 1984 and doesn’t have a flip top!
Ariel commented on Oct 27 11 at 10:50 pmI’m so happy Hal got you a new laptop! I understand feeling attached to your old one though. So many memories and stories created on it…even if they’re transferable!
I agree with you though–I feel like we live in a “disposable” culture. As soon as anything has a bug, tear, hole, or any wear to it, into the trash it goes and we buy a brand new one.
robin commented on Oct 27 11 at 11:20 pmI’m with you. I don’t need the newest everything. Unless they come out with a gadget that can clean my house for me, or freeze time for a couple hours (remember that show, Out of This World?) so I can get some extra sleep!
wumples commented on Oct 27 11 at 11:41 pmMy laptop battery is pretty much dead. I have such techno gadget envy for people with shiny new toys that work!
Alison commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:23 amHellz yes. We bought this laptop shortly before my 3 year old son was born – and it’s full and slow and i hate it. I desperately want to buy a new one, but my hubby is the sane person in the house and he won’t let me. Grrr.
Betsy commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:24 amAs I sit here typing on my 5 year old desktop, I covet my neighbors mobility!
Judy Moulton commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:31 amKeeping up with technology can be so exhausting…and yet somewhat necessary…the work is to find the balance without getting swept up in the hype if the next newest, greatest thing.
Sidnie commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:33 amI loved my laptop. Then I needed to travel across the world with two kids and the screen was going out and there was no way it would have survived the trip.
So. I bought a mini hp. And then a desktop for the house.
And.
I hate being tied to a computer desk.
And.
My boys STOOD ON THE MINI HP and killed the screen.My laptop? Still going strong.
Screen still works and everything.Nice. Just lovely. And nice.
Aliesha commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:39 amI’m holding on to my non-smart-phone because I just don’t think it’s necessary to pay THAT MUCH for internet on my phone every month. It’s the principle of the thing! Then I got a raise at work…and that internet on the new iPhone I am dying for seems a little more reachable…how long can I hold out?????
Allison Gould commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:44 amMy laptop is several years old, so I really could use a new one.
Dorothy commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:50 amMy husband’s laptop is 6 years old and only gets wifi at our house where the information is saved – it no longer can search for a signal. And the screen doesn’t stay upright unless at the perfect angle. And the keys crunch because someone spilled a coke on it. I think it’s time to upgrade.
Jessica Sides commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:56 amI totally grok your meaning, sometimes it feels like it goes too fast.
BUt that new comp is sweet
Alicia H. commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:01 amTechnology does help to simplify life, but it seems like as soon as you buy something new, it is outdated a month later. Very frustrating. I don’t have kids but I have nephews who think my gadgetry is the best and often steals my stuff. They always ask if I have my phone so that I can video tape them doing something goofy, and then let them watch it right away.
Lauren commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:03 amIt’s amazing that even though I’ve only had my computer for just over 3 years, I could really use a new one. Technology is fleeting. That said… pick me!
dana beth commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:11 ammy desktop is so old and slow that it wont even play a you tube video cause its uses too much memory. i bought it when i graduatted college in (gasp 2003!!!) can we say PLEASE PICK ME!!!!!!!!
Abi commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:18 amMy laptop is 3 years old… or is it 4? The battery life is 2 minutes and the keys CLICK SO LOUD!!!
I’m sure the Inspiron is quiet and lovely.
Lisa commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:19 amIt drives me crazy to get rid of the old stuff, that I bought just a couple years ago! So it stacks up in the closet…
Candice commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:20 amHow cool would it be to win a new laptop. My “w” key is hanging on by a thread and I think the “l” key has to be pushed extra hard to get it to work. So handy when I have three l’s in my last name. Come on Random.org!!
Melissa H commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:21 amI whole-heartedly agree with your sentiments and yet I would like to win a fancy shmancy computer. Sigh : )
Emily commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:23 amIt all just stresses me out! I do love my iPhone 3GS, but I’m not inclined to just upgrade. It works perfectly well!
El commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:31 amOur desktop is on its last legs, and I really hope to get all my pics off it first. My iPad (1 not 2) is my daily go to machine, but is not really a computer as much as an entertainer.
Kristie commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:53 amOld is often good, but new can be better. : )
Pat commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:55 amI use an old (read: possibly 2001) desktop, although dh got me a mini laptop for Valentine’s Day last year (sweet!) I know how you feel about schools and tablets; I love the old-style composition notebooks and my kids to use them for their schoolwork.
Sara commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:03 amI feel like such an old person when I complain about technology. Like you said, I love what it offers, but I hate how dependent everyone is on it. It’s nice to just turn your phone off sometimes without worrying that the entire world is going to come crashing down or something.
Nikki Alvarez commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:07 amI know how you feel about having your phone attached to your palm!! I am the same way!!
beth commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:13 amI am currently using a 5 year old little Acer laptop, a hand-me-down from my dad. It likes to forbid from using the internet and uninstalls firefox at least once a month. A new laptop would be amazing, as I am going to grad school (hopefully!) in the fall, and will need a new computer.
Tina C. commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:14 amI’m currently working on a 6- (going on 7-) year old laptop. It’s our only computer, and we’re hoping to eek out an extra year out of it, so we can save up for a new laptop.
I, too, wonder what it means to us as people that we have so things in our lives that are disposable. When I tell people how old my laptop is most of them can’t fathom it. I also use a flip-phone from 2008…and in my age group (late-twenties/early-thirties) it’s practically unheard of (no twitter, no apps, no gps…not at all “smart”) especially we’re taught to upgrade – that if it’s a year old, two years old then it’s too old! Upgrade, there’s always something bigger (or smaller & lighter & faster!) better around the corner.
jen f. commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:20 amI don’t even have a computer lost it in a fire and can’t afford to replace it.
I covet the new technology
MrsK commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:22 amCovet? Oh yes, me, I do!! BUT…Once or twice I was bitten in the ass by the first generation product / model year. So now, I wait…Sometimes not so patiently for future generations to get their bugs worked out. And then I enjoy things so much more. Until they don’t work and then I have to start all over.
Katie C commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:25 amMy laptop is only 2 years old, but my boyfriend and I fight over it. We clearly need two so we can efficientlt do our thing at the same time and don’t need to take turns. :)
Jenn M commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:28 amWe have one, five year old laptop, and are constantly arguing over who gets to use it: my husband, so he can Photoshop himself into Bacon costumes, my daughter, who NEEDS to play her dress-up games! and me! A new laptop would be greatly appreciated!
Melissa commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:31 amI know a dozen people that could use a gentle pulling into the 21st century. Heck for that matter the 20th century. Either way.
Laura commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:35 amI tried to be reasonable and not get a new laptop when mine was 2 years old, even though it had some problems and I was itching for a new one. I decided to be a responsible grownup.
Then the old laptop randomly started splintering apart when you opened and closed it. Shards of plastic everywhere. Upgrade it is!
Amanda commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:36 amI loathe and love technology as well. We finally upgraded our laptop – it was 9 years old, and we love it now, but the lack of permanence bothers me as well.
ayesha commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:38 amReally? A new computer? That would make me so very, very happy.
Tricia commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:45 amI am so bad with technology. I was against the idea or e-books for awhile….until I got one. Now? I love that sucker.
Krystan commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:45 amI am in the same boat. I am a work-at-home mom, and my laptop is on it’s last anti-slip rubber pad. Literally. All the other ones have gone missing in the past four years. The fan doesn’t cool, the baby puked into the card reader/one of two USB cords, there is a constant stream of error messages, I could keep going. I’ve been making do for a while, but it is literally starting to slow me down by taking so much time to do anything (we’ve been told it’s from the machine’s faulty cooling system design and the overheating). I am in the midst of saving as much as we can for a new house, and hopefully a new baby, so not having to buy a new computer would be the best gift I could think of right now!!!
Kate commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:49 amA Kindle. I look at them from afar, afraid to get too close in case my books at home lining my many many bookshelves find out.
Laurel Sears commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:53 amAnd let’s not forget the mixed messages or guilt trips that come with allowing my kids to use the tech gadgets too… While they bang away, I wonder if it is sizzling their ability to empathize, read books, covet journals and write love letters. And the media, with their “we now have a study to prove that putting kids in front of screens is REALLY bad, all the time”, just isn’t helping. I love the vintage gadgetry too but they are so, uhm, unweildy.
So I too could use a new writing, communicating device that supported me.
Hearts- Laurel
Jaclyn commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:00 amI’m struggling with the same issue as you! Chunks of my computer are missing! And though it is still my most prized possession, the warranty is up in a few weeks, and I am terrified of entering a world where anything could happen to it and I am no longer covered for liability. :( I do love technology and wish I could afford a new computer every few years, wish I could afford a smartphone or a tablet, but unfortunately, I am currently laid off and spending money on new things just to have the latest and greatest seems pretty irresponsible, so I’ll just continue with my chunky computer for now!
emily! commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:01 amI have a 4 year old Dell laptop that was over $2K when I purchased it. It’s still great , buuuut I’d LOVE a new desktop! PLEEEASE!
lauren perry commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:03 amoh what the heck, I do covet covet covet THINGS. give me things. So here is a last minute entry :)
Rachel commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:12 amoh how i would love a new laptop. Mine is coming up on his fifth birthday and is missing keys thanks to the toddler, has dents and a dim screen. thank you.
cindy commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:18 amI’m exactly like you. Love/hate. And, I hate it more when I see it in the hands of my daughter. But, alas, it is where the world is headed and to fight it is to be left behind.
Cassie commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:19 amI do think that it’s a little odd for schools to convert to tablets, and there’s no question that, at least at the outset, that’s quite an expense that most schools can’t afford. However, textbooks are expensive and if the alternative to sharing textbooks or paying hundreds and hundreds (or thousands by college) for books each year (books that have virtually no resale value) is ebooks on a tablet where the school only has to buy one copy and each kid can have their “own” – well that makes some sense. But to eliminate paper and ink books altogether would be a travesty.
Nicole Barnard commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:23 amI’m unsure about the ever expanding tech world.
I would prob cry if my kiddo came home requiring tablets instead of notebook paper.
At the same time, I read several blogs every day, have my own, and know about most new gadgets. I just don’t know if I 100% like how it’s outdating things that are dear to me.
Lennis commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:33 amWould you be shocked if I told A. we don’t have internet at our home and B. we don’t have a lap top either. however we do have an iphone err…
A brand new laptop would be amazing!!
Kira Leigh commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:33 amI can’t afford to upgrade every few years, but man do I want to! My solution was to get as nice of a computer for my money as I could get when I was buying one, and just use it till I can’t use it no more!
AmyDanel commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:38 amBless me, for I have sinned…yes, yes, I admit it, I covet my neighbor’s wifi and my best friends iPhone, my sister’s HTC and the 12 yr old-kid-on-the-playground’s iPad, etc. I have a 6 year old laptop, my husband’s is older and he bought it used. I don’t even have a smart phone…I am so afraid that once I buy the next big thing, the next, next big thing is going to be so much more awesome and then I will really be kicking myself. *sigh*
Sharron commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:40 amOh man. The fan went out on my husband’s crappy old computer and he could certainly use a new one!
Kelli commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:43 amOur home computer broke too long ago, & I would love to be able to get online at home once again!
Warrior Woman commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:59 amI’ve always lived by the old adage if it ain’t broke don’t fix it, so I torture myself with my old pc and gigantic old monitor. Even my grandmothers both have flat screens and newer technology. So, I would LOVE to win a new computer! Just sayin…
Amanda May commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:59 amI’m not sure about my neighbors, but I do covet my husband’s brand new computer. He uses it for watching hulu. My five year old laptop runs all my design programs (very slowly). I confess to loving gadgets, but I also try to keep them practical. And I am hoping and planning for a low-tech childhood for my baby, we’ll see how that works out.
Amy K commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:12 pmI tend to hold onto things until they finally give out, and then when I’m forced to upgrade, I’m shocked and amazed at how much better the new one is because – DUH – technology advances a lot in 10 years. When my husband and I finally traded in our cell phones for iPhones a few years ago, the young man working at the store actually called all of the employees up to the front to look at our Neolithic trade-ins. “It belongs in a museum!”
Sara commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:19 pmI prefer to use electronics until they break (my boyfriend just replaced my original nano) but when it comes to computers it is a struggle. My work is in the architecture field and old computers run the heavy software so slowly that it is almost impossible to, not to mention incredibly frustrating.
Maggie E. commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:26 pmI do, sadly covet my neighbor’s wifi, but like you I also resist the urge to “upgrade” my life. I am not behind the times, but I’m not a new gadget buyer either. Squarely in the middle!
Michelle commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:29 pmI love technology even though I’m not a gadget geek. I have a *stupid* phone but I <3 my laptop. Would love the larger screen!
Adara commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:34 pmThe sheer speed of the growth of technology is just terrifying! I keep thinking about when I was little and playing Reader Rabbit on a floppy disk was just about the coolest thing that had ever happened to me… Cut to my iPhone 4. The thought of what my kids are going to be playing with boggles my mind.
Katrina commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:35 pmI do indeed! My hubby just surprised me on Monday with a brand new shiny iPad. I had been wanting one since they came out, but couldn’t quite pull the trigger. My laptop is on it’s last leg, so this is such a nice improvement!
And as far as phones go, I was totally the geek who pre-ordered the newest iPhone. Love!
Kathleen Ojo commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:36 pmBoth my husband and I are stubbornly clinging to the stone age… we don’t have smart phones, we don’t even have cable! We only recently replaced our enormous boxy TV from 1997 with a 32″ LCD, and he does all his grad school work on a clunky 4-year-old laptop that is no longer stable enough to be moved from the desk. Sad, really, but we like our simple ways. With that said, winning this computer would be a wonderful graduation gift for him :)
Linden commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:48 pmI think there’s a line between wanting the latest and greatest and wanting something that is good enough to do what you need to do. I have an iPhone, but an old one, and I don’t plan to get a new one until I need it for some reason, and even then it will probably be the version that’s two or three older than the current one. Same with our computers, TV, etc.
Laura commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:57 pmLove new technology, just hate buying it. If what I have isn’t broken and works perfectly fine, then I keep on using it. I had my last laptop forever, but it died a slow death earlier this year. My cell phone is from 2006 and it might be super outdated, but it gets the job done and still works like it did all those years ago.
Kate Carey-Trull commented on Oct 28 11 at 12:57 pmMy laptop keeps getting infested with viruses, so I would love a new one with all the gadgets too — I am a freelance writer from home for Patch.com and some other publications, and with a 2-year-old also at home my laptop is an essential!! I also have a Nook, which I love, but I do covet an I-Pad. Oh well, if I got one now I’d want a new one when it came out, right?? Congrats on the new additions, I have been following your blog since it was just about Archer, and I can’t believe you have four now either!!
Abigail commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:00 pmI feel you. I’ve always been a late adopter.
amanda commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:07 pmI feel you. I am using a hand-me-down laptop from 2005 with a chunk missing from the side too. Definitely in need of a new gadget to perk up my computing!
Michelle commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:12 pmOh oh! Pick me! always more/better gadgets to buy!
Sophie commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:14 pmI’d love to win! I have to use my husbands work computer :) Coveting in Colorado!
Stacy commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:15 pmI got the iphone 4s on the day it came out and I couldn’t believe how “hip” and “trendy” I felt. I have never really kept up with the lastest and greatest but I needed a new phone so I thought why not. I love it!
Elisa commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:21 pmI’m definitely a technology-coveter (is that a word?) and as much as I try to tell myself that “this version of the iPhone is FIIIIINE”, a sneaky little voice always talks me into the upgrade.
Veronica commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:24 pmI go back and forth – but my concern is mostly the financial one. My husband, on the other hand is all – mine! now! want! need! I am all – dude we just got computers like 100 years ago, what’s wrong with those?
Emily commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:25 pmI love technology and how it lets me keep in touch with my family in Germany and L.A. However, as much as I would like to, I will not be upgrading to the new iPad. There’s no real reason to so I try and keep my techy geek side to myself!
MaMaria commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:29 pmLove your blog (this and GGC)! Hope I’m lucky today :)
MommyNamedApril commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:32 pmi do love gadgets and new things, but at the same time i get totally attached to my old stuff. it took me about 6 months to get a new laptop when my old one started to go awry. and it’s still sitting next to the new one. i just can’t bring myself to say goodbye.
Francesca Abernathy commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:53 pmI hear ya! Too poor to afford the latest and greatest, and for the most part I don’t care. Love your blog and your babies are precious!
Jasmine commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:53 pmIf I were to win, this would be a push present for hubs. We’re overdue and loving it.
Heather commented on Oct 28 11 at 1:59 pmMy husband repairs computers for a living so all my computers are always put together like Frankenstein from other computers but are all lightening fast and awesome on the inside. I’ve never had a new computer before, but I am totally lusting after a new phone right now.
Karen commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:00 pmI don’t buy into the idea that we must have the latest, greatest gadget. I only buy when needed or when I can afford something.
Heather O'Neill commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:07 pmWhat a cool contest! I would love to win a new computer for work since my current computer is more than slightly outdated. Fingers crossed!
Alli commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:11 pmFirst time commenter, love the blog, and would love a new computer!
amanda c commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:14 pmactually, i don’t covet new technology. but free new technology? that i can put to work.
Wendy Bertoglio commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:18 pmThis would be killer.
brandy commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:20 pmI’m pregnant with our first, and have been ranting to my husband about schools going to digital textbooks. I go on and on about how studies show we mentally map where information is in a book as a whole, and how I think we should start hoarding paper textbooks NOW. Did I mention my son is still in my womb?
Jen Jorgensen commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:21 pmWould love a new computer! Mine’s getting a little full and a little slow…
kiera commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:24 pmI adore reading your blogs…I would also adore a new computer :)
Shelley commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:29 pmMy husband and I are a Dell family, we have two laptops ages 5+ and 5 years old that will need to be upgraded/ replaced (against our wills) shortly. We’d love to add a 3rd to our little Dell family!
Carly commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:35 pmI have never had a new computer. Lived my life of off hand-me-downs. This would be awesome! Congrats on the new editions to the family!
Stephanie commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:39 pmLast month my husband brought a smartphone into our lives (despite my kicking and screaming). I just realized that my inability to figure out how to use it quickly has turned me into my mother: frustrated and completely unable to cope with having to learn another new technology when the old one was fine for me. Computers, on the other hand, computers with actual keyboards for typing are fun.
Elizabeth commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:40 pmWe are debating the purchase of a new computer. I am generally all for holding onto things until they are unusable. We try to be frugal and stick to purchasing things that are definite needs, not wants (we don’t even have cable!) but you are right. There comes a point at which, even if it’s not dead yet, a new one would help you get things done faster and do them better. And eliminate the ever-present ‘what if this thing bites the dust a very inopportune time and we lose stuff?’ concern. Which is where we’re at. And why a computer will likely be our Christmas present to each other this year! :) So romantic!
Stephanie commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:53 pmI am a happy median…..I love my gadgets but I cant justify spending the money by keeping up with the latest and greatest.
Alison commented on Oct 28 11 at 2:55 pmMy husband commandeered my computer when his stopped working two years ago. Neither of us is willing to make the purchase of a second computer until this one dies a slow death, but there are definitely days when I wish to pull it from his arms saying “Mine!”
Meghan O'C commented on Oct 28 11 at 3:03 pmIt’s so hard to stay on top of everything. I feel so conflicted that my 2 year-old can turn on my iPhone and play with apps. Is that good that she has been exposed to technology because it is so ever-present? Is it bad? Am I just worrying about nothing?
Renee commented on Oct 28 11 at 3:10 pmThe new IPhone I secretly want although I bought my husband and I the iPhone 4 each last summer so I can forget that….sigh…phones I can figure out!!! New computer would be nice…although figuring that out is much harder for me…my brain doesn’t work like that! And actually doesn’t work much at all since I had my new born exactly 21 days ago! Happy three week Birthday my little Milla!
Kelly commented on Oct 28 11 at 3:17 pmI bought my computer in 2004 when I was heading to graduate school. Almost eight years later, I worry every day that all of the information that’s stored on the old, incredibly slow machine (my thesis, dissertation, wedding photos, photos of five nieces and nephews that were born within the past 6 years) will be lost when it dies. I have no idea how I made it through grad school without a laptop, but I did, and I don’t want to have to anymore! I’m now a college professor, and I have to tell my students that I can’t open their .docx documents because I’m still using Microsoft Office 2003 :) So no, I hardly keep up with the times (probably getting my first smart phone next weekend, a little late to the party) but I know I have to start!
Barbara commented on Oct 28 11 at 3:42 pmThis would be awesome!!
Debbie commented on Oct 28 11 at 3:43 pmI never thought I would need a laptop for each kid, but our family is sure headed that way.
Alana commented on Oct 28 11 at 4:46 pmI’m not TOTALLY hip (meaning I don’t have a tablet of any kind although I feel like Steve Job’s kitchen floor was tiled with my $$$), but I have gadgets. I have a few. I also continue to use my annual Moleskine planner. I have stacks of them from years past with forgotten numbers, stupid quotes, successful plans and failed budgets.
So have a fancy laptop! Fun! But maybe try to also have a library card, a tangible journal or planner.
All good things.
Tami in NY commented on Oct 28 11 at 4:54 pmI never had until last Christmas my husband bought me an iPod touch. I’m a bit touched now. I used to be up on all of the latest tech trends but have slacked off. I feel like I have to get back in the game as it is all passing me by!!
Janene commented on Oct 28 11 at 4:56 pmI have an ancient laptop, and an even more ancient desktop for the kids (that only works if you hold your breath, tap your left foot, wink your right eye and think only happy thoughts as it trys to boot up!).
Margaret M commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:08 pmI hate my laptop with a passion and should really buy a new one, but more important things come first, like diapers. :(
Sylvia Felix commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:28 pmI NEED a laptop, I have to stop by the library every other day to check your blogs lol!
Justine B commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:42 pmThankfully I am not passionate about the big brand new gadget coming out. Mainly because of price. I too have been using a laptop about that old and I just won’t give up! I refuse to buy a new one until it is gone completely!
Cheryl commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:47 pmNot a gadget person at all…I recently updated my Motorola flip phone to the most basic smart phone available as I lost my charger and they (of course) didn’t make them for that model anymore.
I do like the idea of not having a big CPU sitting on my desk though, I have an older Inspiron.
Michelle S commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:56 pmI didn’t “need” my iPhone until I had a nursing baby; don’t think I would have lasted this long without it!
Kristen Biehl commented on Oct 28 11 at 5:57 pmI’m still trying to figure out why people want to pay more than twice what I pay a month for cell phone service just to have a smart phone. I have a stupid phone. It makes calls; I can text; the end.
lindsey commented on Oct 28 11 at 7:19 pmcount me in for the count. the school I teach at is all about smart boards, and gives each student a laptop to use during the day. I honestly can’t stand it. In my freshman art classes, each student has a sketchbook and all of our work goes in there. I brought in all of my sketchbooks, one from every year since junior year of high school and the students love looking at my progress. I tell them that if I had done everything on a computer program, the files would all be incompatible now.
thanks for your awesome posts :)
Emily commented on Oct 28 11 at 7:47 pmI find it hard to be separated from my iphone.
Lauren commented on Oct 28 11 at 7:53 pmI’m only 27 but still wish we all used typewriters and payphones still existed. A necessary evil for changing times I suppose and I’m not even old. Thanks for being so inspiring for me.
Tracey commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:49 pmI feel the urge to upgrade but usually resist because I AM CHEAP! And I never win these contests, but what the hey. I’d give the laptop to my hubby for Christmas…he needs one worse than I.
Megan commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:51 pmI would LOVE a new computer. So much so that I would even be willing to call it a “push present” once this baby evacuates the premises.
SoMo commented on Oct 28 11 at 8:53 pmThe husband and I were forced to get new laptops when our old ones gave up. When you get the blue screen of death several times a day and then all the time it is time to throw out the old and get with the new. *sigh*
Alyson commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:02 pmI would LOVE it. Mine is 4 years old and has a chunk missing from the Right corner!
Kelly commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:16 pmI am hesitant to get a new computer out of fear that my husband will spend even more time on it! But, I have to admit it’s such a major part of our lives now, and my daughter is even starting to use it, so it may be time.
Carrie commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:25 pmI have a laptop and an iphone, yet I covet an ipad — although I can’t think of anything it would do that the other two thing can’t!
Jen Range commented on Oct 28 11 at 9:33 pmOooooh! I would love to enter this giveaway! My husband and I are like you and prolong upgrading electronics as long as possible. We replaced our desktop last year, and we had the old computer almost eight years. We don’t have any items that use the touch technology and I do drool over the smartphones and iPads that my friends have. But it is nice to hang back and enjoy the simple moments and not feel the pressure to have our gadgets in our hands every waking moment.
Leslie commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:11 pmErm, yes. I covet the latest technology. BUT I am good about not buying it until I need to. I still don’t have a smartphone (that ends when my contract is up in November! iPhone, HERE I COME) and I haven’t bought a new laptop in three years…but when my MacBook dies, you can be assured that I will be buying a new shiny MacBookPro. :)
Jen Tyson commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:45 pmI don’t own a laptop. Our computer is huge and old. I’d love a new one, but have such a hard time buying the latest and greatest when money is tight and, Hey, this one’s been working so far. SLOOOOOOOW as all get out, but we don’t know any better. I’m afraid to know better–but maybe it’s time?
Michelle commented on Oct 28 11 at 10:46 pmI bought my first PC with graduation money, since it was going to take having my own computer to get me through college. After being dragged, dropped, run for weeks on end without a complete shutdown, spilled, rained, and splattered on, the operating software updates ate its precious little 40GB hard drive alive, at the same time the wireless card and graphics card both bit the dust. That was a mid-grade Dell computer but it ran like a champ for exactly as long as I needed it to–it winked off in its ultimate shutdown three weeks after I pulled my freshly-inked BFA out of my mailbox. I bought an even more economy-grade refurbished model a few weeks after that and I’ve been running it into the ground ever since. Random fate handing me a new laptop would be ideal, because I’m with you–I’m going to have a hard time convincing myself to replace this one (even though it doesn’t do half of what I really need it to). I haven’t hit 30 and, while I was the tech-savvy one 10 years ago for my whole family while we were all in the throes of AOL and Windows 98, I couldn’t operate a DVR / Blu-Ray player / i-Anything other than pod / game system now if my life depended on it. I’m so behind now but I don’t really care most of the time!
Melissa commented on Oct 28 11 at 11:41 pmI try not to get too caught up with having the latest and greatest, with the knowledge that before I even purchased the item, it had become obsolete. So in the meantime I just appreciate that I have a working computer/cell phone etc and know that I will have something newer and greater in a few years.
sarahjane commented on Oct 29 11 at 12:21 amready to kick my tower to to curb! laptop, yes, please!
Melissa commented on Oct 29 11 at 2:07 amI’m with you, Rebecca. I am a crusty old curmudgeon who wishes she had merely a typewriter and a rotary phone hanging in her kitchen. I would be fine with this. Although not really, because I do *love* the Internet. I just keep using my old Toshiba laptop (c. 2009) until it croaks (knock on wood) but, yeah, I would love to win a new Dell! (I would give it to my husband as a late birthday present and for being the best father ever!) xo
Maranda commented on Oct 29 11 at 5:45 pmI can identify with having a laptop on its last leg. The monitor of my laptop has been trying to escape for about a year now. With a new baby, though, I can’t justify even beginning to save for a new one. Here’s to hoping it holds out!
Melanie commented on Oct 29 11 at 8:27 pmLove your blog! And your babies are beautiful!! I would love to win the laptop for my sweet mom. She needs one so bad for work!
Donna Y commented on Oct 29 11 at 8:30 pmSometimes!! I wish I could upgrade my computer. I thought I wanted an ipad, but after thinking about the cost (plus monthly fees, if you want 3G)…. I’m just not sure it’s worth it. Plus, I don’t have any money for more gadgets!
Karen commented on Oct 30 11 at 5:11 pmLove the iPads in the classroom! I think they can do a lot of great things that will encourage learning and hopefully be able to reach students who don’t learn visually or auditorily. Just my opinion though!
JenAHM commented on Oct 31 11 at 9:04 amWhat a fantastic gift — you deserve it! My laptop is getting crusty too and ever since our baby started grabbing things, has taken a little bit of a beating. I’ll need to stop writing with her on my lap…..
Bridgitt commented on Oct 31 11 at 10:05 pmI’ve never owned my own laptop. I have a work issued (4 years old and feels ancient) one that I am currently writing on, and if I feel the need to use a personal one (which I don’t often, my boss is pretty cool and doesn’t mind me using this for personal), I borrow the hubbies. But I would LOVE to replace his, which is even older than mine. But we have kids, and they (and the house and car payments) come before laptops. Plus, Dell rules. I love my work Dell, even if it is old and could use an update or two.
Ordinary girl commented on Nov 02 11 at 1:23 pmI didn’t think I cared that is until my husband bought me an iPad so i could rest with our newborn (not a push present, a c- section present ) and I’m loving every minute of it!
Ray commented on Nov 05 11 at 3:13 am“That being said, I am typing this post on my brand spanking new laptop (thank you, Hal!) with my brand spanking new babies (thank you, Hal)…”
Loved that.
I’d love to switch from PC to Mac. Mac is just a very creative computer with wonderful applications like Final Cut Pro, that I want to get into. And,—I resent saying this, because I didn’t think it was anything special—maybe an iPad.
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