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Reflections on AT&T's shuttering of the time service

August 29, 2007 4:30pm

This is truly sad.

Even though I haven't used the service in quite a while, when I read this blurb I realized there was always a certain subtle comfort/stability in my life, knowing I could always call the PopCorn Lady and get the time - she was always there for me. Now, I had an inexplicable sense of impending loss, of a void in my life.

So I called up the "popcorn" lady, just to say goodbye, to hear her oh-so-perfect always cheerful voice one last time. And maybe also just to apologize for my neglect these past few years.

And just as if I had never left her, she faithfully greeted me ("good afternoon") and told me the exact time (Pacific Standard Time), over and over again, always at the tone, always perfectly enunciated, steady and cheerful, with no hint of hurt or anger. It was clear, all was forgiven by the PopCorn Lady, she was just happy to hear from me. What a saint. Brought tears to my eyes . . .

I'll miss you, PopCorn Time Lady. I feel like I'm losing a friend I now realize I should have spent more time with. Sniff . . .

Human-like robotic arm, with familiar muscles and bones: video

August 29, 2007 11:10am

Indeed, robo-porn at its almost best. Makes one wonder what else they can make with their pressure valves and inflating tubes . . .

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