The New Baby

Well, I did it. I actually did it. I... [deep breath] bought a computer.

Quit laughing. I swear to Pete, I won't tell you about this if you keep it up. Done? Okay.

I've been using computers both personally and professionally for some time now, but I've never actually purchased one myself before. I've been using laptopasaurus for years now.

Laptopasaurus, for those of you who are unaware, was a gift from my parents when I went back to school. In 1997. Laptopasaurus was old and rehabbed then. I know. I know!

Since the advent of laptopasaurus in my life, I've been with other computers. That's right. I've cheated on my technology. And I'm not just talking about the computers at work or the library. A friend built a desktop computer for me out of leftover parts he had lying around. I don't even want to know how you get to the point of having enough leftover computer parts that you can build a whole computer, but there you are. Then, three years ago, my roommate bought a new desktop computer. It's a lovely computer despite its operating system.

No, I don't want to talk about it. Mac people, be quiet.

So I've made through the last decade of so without buying anything new. Part of my reason for doing so has been fiscal, part has been fear-based. I was terrified to buy a new computer. Picture this: I finally summon up the nerve to throw down an enormous volume of money. I do the research. I watch the sale ads. I find the right machine for me and my needs and I march down to whatever store I've chosen, point to my computer and hand over my debit card. After loading up hard drive, monitor, printer, approximately nine billion cables and anything else I absolutely must have, I walk to the front of the store where I am stopped by a kind, friendly, helpful store employee.

"Ma'am? Did you just buy the new ___________?"

"Yes, it's right here. I have my receipt."

"Oh, that won't be necessary. I'm sorry to tell you, ma'am, but that computer is now obsolete. If you'll just come back to the counter, we'll take care of upgrading your equipment."

Sigh.

But I pushed aside my fears and I bought a netbook. Well, no, to be accurate, I bought my roommate a ridiculously expensive phone [adding her to my cell service plan] and got the netbook for "free." Yet another reason why people think we're a couple, but that's a whole different topic. But I have the netbook.

Now. To get to work on it.

No pressure.