The organizers invite folks to get involved in many different ways, including "what the web means to me", which sounds like a post-summer vacation school essay, doesn't it?
The web is a tool, one that I depend on to an extent that frightens me sometimes. When I don't have access I actually start feeling shaky and nauseated. I check my mail right after I get up in the morning, but my husband won't let me check it before bed - mainly because I get involved in something and next thing I know it is after midnight.
My work revolves around the web - I blog professionally and also design and maintain websites and blogs. I also consult and train people on using web-based applications. When I'm not working, I'm trying out new applications and techniques. Right now, I'm halfway through a book on XML, nearly done with a basic Java programming primer, and doing a refresher on CSS standards.
My entertainment is also based online. I play poker, pretend to be someone I'm not in Second Life, check the TVGuide.com, read and Get Fuzzy and Frazz. Our local radio is limited to mariachi music and country, so I stream blues and jazz from KPLU. I listen to Brazilian radio online to keep my Portuguese up and download mariachi music to clean house to (please don't point out the irony).
I've drawn a line in the sand, however. I try to spend at least 24 hours a week unplugged - preferably 48 hours. When I go on vacation, which isn't often enough, I go totally unplugged. I try to stay unplugged after 7:00 at night. And, you know, it is nice. Nice not to be tied to the computer. Nice to be looking at something other than a screen. Nice to be up and moving around.
So there you go - that is what the web means to me.
