redemption twice over
With my pending PowerBook delivery this morning, I did my best to keep my mind off of the also-pending MacWorld Expo Keynote. I checked my most recent DHL delivery time from an old tracking number and it listed 11:18 am as the delivery time; so, I was hoping that before noon, my PowerBook would be back to me, with a fresh new hard drive, I could check it out to make sure it booted correctly, and then I could check out of the house for some coffee, pastry, and not thinking about going nuts over the Keynote.
At 11 am, I was getting nervous. I had showered in a rush so as to not miss the doorbell - my delivery would require a signature this time - and was wandering around, masquerading patience, nearly pacing. It became apparent, as time continued to drag on, that if DHL didn’t arrive by noon, I would have to take evasive action. Some drastic measures were needed.
I vowed that if 11:30 came and DHL had not, I would make a latte and toast at home, grab a book, and engulf my mind and spirit into some reading like never before, acting entirely oblivious to the technological wonders that were being released at the Keynote. In the past, I’ve spent Keynotes vigorously refreshing websites, like MacRumors.com, reading minute-by-minute coverage on what Steve Jobs preaches and releases. It has become too much, and this year must change.
So, 11:30 came - no DHL. I let out an exasperated sigh, reluctant to put myself through an hour plus of voluntary physical and mental restraint while an open internet connection could be informing me of the latest. I’d have to go from noon to 1:30 without touching a computer to read the announcements… ARG! With more sighs, I’m sure, I fired up the espresso maker and got the parts and pieces on-the-ready.
The first step to a hot latte is to steam the milk to 150-160 degrees Fahrenheit. At about 110 degrees, the doorbell rang. I nearly let the frothing pitcher fall to the countertop as I launched myself towards the front door. DO NOT LEAVE, DHL-MAN!! Should you value LIFE, you WILL NOT MOVE AN INCH. I get to the door, sign for my box, thank the guy almost hysterically, and shut the door to shield the explosion of absolute chimeric glee that was to commence.
I turned the halfway-steamed milk into a mini caramel steamer, checked out the PowerBook (works great with the Toshiba(?!) drive), asked myself why the repair person installed OS 10.3 Panther instead of 10.4 Tiger, grabbed my bag and books and fled the house.
It was 11:57 am when I left. I watched the archived QuickTime stream of the Keynote tonight and was satisfied but not uber geeking out. This is a positive step towards a healthy relationship between me and Apple. A relief.