A Tech House in the 1980s

I grew up in a high tech house. During the 1980s. My dad, unlike many in NW OH at that time, had both a career and an interest in technology. As a result, we were one of the only houses in town that had a desktop computer. It was a Radio Shack TRS 80 computer with a cassette tape deck as the ‘game console’! And, I didn’t realize how fortunate I was. As a matter of fact, I thought my dad was weird and annoying for tinkering with his computer. 

The day when I changed my mind about computers (but maybe not yet about my dad – that would come later!), is a vivid memory. I was in fourth grade, in our dark basement in Maumee, OH trying to TYPE a book report, On an actual typewriter. And, I was getting very frustrated because I kept making mistakes.

The Breaking Point

My dad, sitting near while I did my homework, was on his computer. Probably tired of hearing me moan and groan, he asked if I wanted to learn a new way to get my report done. Now, I realize now what an act of love this was for my dad. This was his ONLY computer and he was offering it to me..

Then, I didn’t make it easy for him to teach me. I complained. I whined. I did all of the things that when my kids do them now, they drive me to the brink of insanity. But, my dad kept his cool and kept working with me.

My Love for Tech is Born

Soon, I had the hang of it and was on my way. And, I was amazed at how much easier it was to fix my mistakes! Because of that machine, I finished much faster than with the typewriter and happily went off to ‘do my thing’.

I didn’t realize it then, but that was it. I was hooked and my interest in technology was born.

Thanks, dad!