It’s a funny thing about computers. I’m old enough that I hardly heard the word before I was nine or ten. And computers were in cartoons about mad scientists plotting to take over the world.

Now I use the things regularly, as does nearly everybody. In a way, computers themselves have taken over the world! When I was a kid, I never dreamed that I’d own one of the things.

In fact, I own several. I have my laptop; and the hybrid has its Cateye; and the road bike has its Garmin. I use a desktop model at work.

My laptop, alas, seems to be wearing out. Even plugged in, it won’t charge fully; and as I type this, it’s at only 87%. Last night it was at 91%; so something isn’t right! Unfortunately a new one will be very expensive; but if I’m to keep this site up and running, I have to have it.

That’s another thing about computers. They can do some marvelous work; but let them shut down, and we’re helpless! I also noticed years ago that using these machines teaches us impatience. We get used to all-but-instantaneous results; and when things are slower, we get aggravated. Or at least I do.

Now I turn my thoughts to tomorrow’s forecast. There’s a heat advisory posted for 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. It’s plenty hot right now, with a heat index of 105! I’m glad I can ride early in the day.