Old Dog?

I just started figuring out something new.

I have always had a special knack with personal computers and I have become shockingly aware that not all people do. I work in field of education and have always assumed colleagues see the need and have to abilities to become computer literate. I've often been disappointed.

I chalk up my abilities, that I have come to see as special, to my way of learning. I think people truly successful with personal computers are explorer-type personalities. I have never tried to find a manual or set of instructions in order to learn new software. In order to become proficient, one has to get right in there and get one's hands dirty. It also helps being at ease with a little discomfort; as that is a crucial prerequisite in learning a new way of accomplishing a goal.

Enough said. I have been very slow on the uptake when changing over to Microsoft Outlook.

Years ago, I quickly settled into a routine with Outlook Express. Beginning with the inclusion of access to Hotmail accounts, I have kept a number of them active and accessible through a single interface. You know, I need a teaching-related account, a personal one, and several for specific tasks. I would never have been able to stand working with Hotmail's wretched, online interface but Outlook Express was simple and allowed for more flexible formatting options. In addition, I always archive messages on my computer by copying from various hotmail accounts to local folders. Outlook Express was first to the line in allowing me to put all those accounts and POP/SMPT accounts under a single program.

I functioned under those circumstances for very long time. It was high time that I abandon the Express version and move to the full-fledged, MS Office version. It really does allow for better management of data. Also, I enjoy how Outlook syncs up with my iPaq. I have never really spent much time playing with the calendar function because MY LIFE IS SO SIMPLE. Ditto for upcoming tasks because I ONLY DO EXACTLY WHAT I WANT!

Yet, now's as good a time as any to learn new tricks.