As much as we love technology, there are times when the learning curves and glitches drive us to the edge of adult temper-tantrums. Soon after we become proficient with a new technology, it becomes obsolete. The apparatus ends up in a land-fill, and we’re back at it — reading a tiny print manual with a magnifying glass for a new device, or trying to find instructions (written for geeks) online.

At a relaxing afternoon tea with friends recently, a single mom explained how she managed to get her three year old daughter ready for preschool, dressed herself to do a presentation, packed the car with materials, and once in the car with just enough travel time to spare, she entered the address into her GPS. It replied, “NO SUCH ROAD!” After hyperventilating, then taking a few slow breaths, she managed to find the location by asking a real person (no map in car).

Another woman at our gathering showed us her favorite app on her Blackberry. It’s the flashlight app — so simple and easy to use when one has to get up in the middle of the night.

We can pay our bills online today (no envelopes and stamps), but with so many passwords and user names to keep track of and time spent guessing, I wonder if it is just as easy and cost effective to write out the check and mail it.

I felt badly for my mom when she bought a new kitchen stove and could not figure out why there weren’t just on and off switches with a temperature dial.

If you find you have reached a high frustration level with technology, have spent too much time on the computer today, and have a stiff neck from the tension, take a break and wrap a Maine Warmer around the back of your neck. Of course, that requires the use of a microwave! But it will help you relax and keep muscles flexible.  

Also, consider logging out of your Facebook account, invite a friend over for a soothing cup of tea with our Raisin Cake (see recipe below), conversation, and some laughs.