30 Days of Thanks-Day 3

Today, I am thankful for technology. We live in a day and age where technology has become such a huge part of our lives that we almost can't function without it. Especially in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, I think people are learning how dependent on technology we are.

Technology allows us to experience new things we wouldn't be able to otherwise. I know for me, my life is forever changed by having a hearing aid. Because of my hearing aid, I am to live a life that I probably wouldn't be able to otherwise. I am able to hear music. The words of so many songs are so meaningful to me and I'm thankful I'm able to hear them. Having a hearing aid allows me to communicate better with so many people and be able to listen to those who need somebody to listen to them.

Skyping on July 4th!

It was raining where I was, but
not where Mom and Dad where!

Technology allows to stay connected with loved ones near and far. Living so far away from my brothers and niece and nephew, Skype is one way that allows us to connect. I miss out on so much not seeing them except for maybe once or twice a year, but skyping allows me to see my family even when I cannot be physically present. Like last Christmas, my little brother had knee surgery so he and my mom were unable to come to Tennessee to spend Christmas with the extended family so my dad and I worked it out to have them join the festivities through skype! It didn't compare to having them there in person, but it was a great alternative to not seeing them at all. Even little things like seeing fireworks on the fourth of July in another city because it's raining in where I'm at is possible! That happened last  year when I was stuck at the airport on the 4th of July. I skyped with my parents and still got to see some fireworks!

Although technology can sometimes be a hindrance when we are with people, it helps us connect with those we love when we can't be present with them. I know I'm guilty of looking at my phone instead of focusing on the people I'm with. But for those far away, like my brother, sister-in-law, and cute niece in New Mexico, or my wonderful boyfriend in Louisiana, I'm thankful for things like cell phones and texting so that we can still talk even if we can't be in the same place! While I'm thankful for technology, I hope I remember to use it to add to my relationships with people, not replace them.

And in my recent adventure of trying to be gluten-free to help with my allergies and skin issues has been made much easier with technology! I have found several new apps on my phone that make it easier to determine if foods have gluten in them or not and where I can find gluten-free foods. It makes it a lot more easy to deal with by having those apps. 

I could go on and on about the many different areas that technology affects my life. So, let's just say I'm thankful for the many ways that technology benefits me and adds to my life!