The future is already here, I'm just trying to aggregate it.

My kids first typewriter.  This is an old 10 inch netbook my daughter uses for years, mostly to write with. She somehow managed to wipe the OS completely off of it (I mean completely) so I installed Ubuntu and it worked great for years. A little small and underpowered, but it worked for writing.  My son now wants something that he can use to write stories on. (I love the note!) He’s already been publishing his own comic book for almost a year and now wants to start writing stories. How can I say no? So needless to say the netbook is charging and then I’ll update the version of Ubuntu and he’ll be ready to write all the stories he wants. 

My kids first typewriter. 

This is an old 10 inch netbook my daughter uses for years, mostly to write with. She somehow managed to wipe the OS completely off of it (I mean completely) so I installed Ubuntu and it worked great for years. A little small and underpowered, but it worked for writing. 

My son now wants something that he can use to write stories on. (I love the note!) He’s already been publishing his own comic book for almost a year and now wants to start writing stories.

How can I say no? So needless to say the netbook is charging and then I’ll update the version of Ubuntu and he’ll be ready to write all the stories he wants. 

No, the iPhone Isn't the Most Disruptive Product in History

I understand both arguments but the fact is, all technology is standing on the shoulders of the giants that came before them. 

What Captures Your Attention Controls Your Life

As a parent and an active digital user, this really hit home. I’ve gotten a lot better about the use of my mobile when I’m out with the family but I think I could do better especially at home. 

A few years ago, DisneyWorld executives were wondering what most captured the attention of toddlers and infants at their theme park and hotels in Orlando, Florida. So they hired me and a cultural anthropologist to observe them as they passed by all the costumed cast members, animated creatures, twirling rides, sweet-smelling snacks, and colorful toys. But after a couple of hours of close observation, we realized that what most captured the young children’s attention wasn’t Disney-conjured magic. Instead it was their parents’ cell phones, especially when the parents were using them.

Those kids clearly understood what held their parents’ attention — and they wanted it too. Cell phones were enticing action centers of their world as they observed it. When parents were using their phones, they were not paying complete attention to their children.

Giving undivided attention is the first and most basic ingredient in any relationship.