The Electronic Road Warrior

Things have come a long way since I first started spending winters on the road, about 16 years ago. (can't believe it's been that long!) Back then most business was done over pay phones using calling cards. Ancient History.

For a couple years I did a fair amount of Internet business using dial-up connections. There used to be a campground in Key Largo with a bar overlooking the Bay. They had Internet phone connections right at the bar. I'd plug in and reach behind me for a cold beer. Nice and civilized.

There were times I'd strap an acoustic coupler to a pay phone and do business at a very slow rate. At least it usually worked.

These days I carry a hotspot that lets my computers get on the Internet over the cell phone towers. The marina has wifi, but until today it was hit or miss. The service guy just upgraded the system and now service is decent.

Good thing as I've a lot of business to take care of today. It's nice to not have to burn my own data plan to do it.

Interesting to think that my whole electronic existence could go away with an EMP or massive cyber attack. Since much of my electronic financial life consists of me paying bills, it wouldn't bother me too much.

-Sixbears