Barbara J. Hamby

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Word Origins

I just read that Face Book users have created a new verb that will be officially recognized as “new word of the year” by someone or other. The word is “unfriend.” Not a very welcoming word, what? Between all the new social networks, texting and tweeting, etc., I’m sure there will be dozens, if not hundreds, of new words cropping up.

I’m certain some writer or writers are already collecting such new words for books to explain their origins. I have several of that type of book already; I can hardly wait to see the latest ones.

We spent four hours today in an A.A.R.P. “55 Alive” class, listening to updates on all the new laws relating to driving, as well as all the ways our old heads and bodies affect our driving abilities. Naturally, a lot of that time was spent learning ways to compensate for the deficiencies of aging. A lady near us complained that it was boring and she’d probably only save about $10. on her insurance. Actually, if she paid attention, it could save her life, or someone else’s.

In Oregon, several laws have changed recently or will change soon. The first of next year it will be illegal to use a cell phone, unless it’s hands-free, and definitely illegal to text while driving. You will not have to commit some other violation before you can be stopped and cited for illegal phone use. I’m really grateful for that law. I’m so tired of being surrounded by distracted drivers.

We have to go back on Friday for the rest of the instruction. It couldn’t be handier; the class is right next door, but the room was very cold. Friday I plan to be bundled up better.