The internet is a hugely positive thing in my life. I can find information on anything -- ANYTHING -- any time. I can see up to the second pictures of my nieces and nephews, or pictures drawn by them, or things they thought were neat. John and I used the internet to stay in touch while we lived apart. All of our "big" discussions were typed. My kids far away can find me on messenger -- and so can the one sitting in the same room. I go first to the internet to find out things like news, weather (in case I can't see the window, I guess), and entertainment. It's a good thing.

It is also really distracting lately. I am going to make a few changes. In the work day (self-defined), I am going to leave yahoo messenger logged out. (This is partly to stop the constant email notifications.) I am going to only respond to offspring (including step and in-law) aim messages. Any others I will respond to after hours. Whatever after hours means.

If I choose to do something that could be considered time-wasting, that's one thing. I choose to do so. It's the stuff that comes in interruptingly that I have to cut down on. At least that is my theory!

(A recent article by Cory Doctorow about interruptive media helped shape some of my thinking on this... decision.)