The most important invention in your lifetime is…
When your brain decides it wants to do gymnastics at 12:27 AM, fuck it, keep writing.
I believe the most important invention in my lifetime is the emergence of FaceTime (real time video chat) and having a camera on our phones to capture moments in real time.
Living out of the state you were born and raised in make these nifty tools even more invaluable because, let’s face it, I miss A LOT of shit especially with my Jersey family and friends. However, when they FaceTime me, I feel included in the event—there without being there, if you will.
My bestest friend (yes, I’m 36 in less than three months and say words like ‘bestest’) had her first baby almost a year ago and when I tell you it was rough not being closer to help her, it was rough. I can’t even begin to express how sad I felt about that. I found myself crying often and wishing I could be there for her.
*Enter FaceTime*
FaceTime has been a real lifesaver! I’ve gotten to watch my littlest niece grow and listen to her babble and grin at me (Oh my! Her smiles are fantastic!). So much so, that when I visited with my bestie and saw her daughter for the first time the little munchkin reached for me and smiled. She knew my voice and face through FaceTime!
With FaceTime I’ve also been able to join in on ‘happy birthday’ serenading of family members and friends (although I’d love to see food teleportation devices invented so I can enjoy the cake!) and feel as close as I can to those I love without actually being there.
Moving to a new city can be daunting but moving to a new state almost 10 hours away after spending over 30 years somewhere else can be challenging for your social life. I’ve done my best to build a support system here while maintaining my connections in the place I was born and raised. FaceTime has allowed me to stay involved in important events even when I can’t actually be there.
As a late 80s baby I can’t say we’ve had any ‘blow your hair back’ inventions, if I was born in 1986 or 1987 I could say DNA testing in crime cases but much like Taylor Swift I was born in 1989 which means advancements in technology: texting, FaceTime, and real time photography are probably the most important inventions for my lifestyle.
If you’re looking to spice up your lifestyle consider purchasing from my small business! In addition to wall art; I now offer cellphone cases, throw pillows and fleece blankets with my artwork on them.
Are You There Friday? It's Me, Brittany. 
There’s no shame in saying “bestest”—sometimes, it just fits 😅
Thanks for sharing. Honestly, FaceTime has to be one of the greatest inventions ever. Being away from family makes me appreciate it even more—being able to check in with them easily is a blessing
Holy hat I am awful at responding! I apologize sincerely for taking so long to write back. Honestly, it really does just fit sometimes and I have no shame 😅.
FaceTime has been a godsend because truthfully living far from where you were born and raised (while an enriching experience) does leave my heart feeling like it’s in two places at once. FaceTime makes me feel included in the lives of my loved ones back in NJ and helps them feel included with me.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment! I hope you have an awesome day!