I began my first job in 2003, at which time I got my first cell phone. Two years later, I was forced to get a new one—along with a new contract.

A few of these phones were “favorites” due to the ring tone—or, in one case, the talking caller ID feature (that one had to be replaced about four summers ago, when it fell out of my walker bag when I, startled by the fire alarm, fell. Coincidentally, that led to me getting two pockets sewn in the bag.)

A while ago, part of my current cell phone snapped off due to too many falls (and constant pressure on weakened bits). Then, over the weekend (Saturday), I managed to bust it further (it wasn’t secured in any way, so the continued pressure exerted to keep it open paid its toll). I later taped it—before limiting my activity.

Today, Mom came over and, in her attempts to “undo” what I had done (i.e., removing the tape), something snapped and the top officially detached itself from the bottom. So, now, I’m stuck with my Landline until I get a new one!

Somedays I wish that a landline was all that I owned. I use my cellphone quite a bit for all kinds of things, but very rarely for calls. On days that I "accidentally" forget it at home are the best days.

Oh me too ClaraSue. I hate the damn thing! It is a joy to find it is missing, left at home. I use it as little as I possibly can.

During Hurricane Sandy, many in New York and New Jersey were without cell phone service, due to downed towers. Those of us who had kept our landlines were the lucky ones.

I have the most basic mobile phone I could find - I use it only out of necessity.

Got a new one

This evening was talking to Mom, who was on her way to look at phones. Did I want to come with, or did I want her to just pick out something? [It must be noted that she has a sense of humor that most would find strange.]

Me: I trust you.
Mom: Maybe you shouldn’t.
Me: You’ve known me long enough to know what I need.

Later, she stopped by with the phone [it’s free, but with a $50 rebate—so if she sends the money in during the specified time, she’ll get it back.]

Mom: If this one breaks, it’s about $180 to replace it.

Right now, we’re in the fourteen-day trial period to see if this one’s right for me.

We didn’t have time to fiddle with ringers, so it’s on the preprogrammed one [interesting to say the least—it’s not one of those dull “original” tones or anything—the standard ring annoys the pants off me].

I did find the speaker—it’s on the side of the phone, whereas there was a button on the other one that was right above the ‘send’ button.